Clark County, Ohio - The whole text, 1881 (part 12 of 20)

MARTIN L. RICE, of the firm of James Neill A Co., manufacturers of and dealers in boots and shoes, Springfield. Mr. Rice has been identified with the growth and business of . Springfield for nearly twenty years. He is a native of Worcester Co.. Mass., born Dec. 2, 1824; he was one of tivo sons, whose father, believing every young man should have a trade, had each one apprenticed at a proper age. Martin L. was apprenticed to a baker, and afterward became associated with his father, Anson Rice, who was a merchant, and the Postmaster at Northboro, Mass. ; he remained in business there about fifteen years, then came AYest and located at Springfield; he was connected with the Yellow Springs Agricultural Works, and one of four who lost $70,000 by the fire which destroyed the works in March, 1860, after which he became connected with the Lagonda Agricultural Works, and continued there about five years, during which important progress was made. In 1865, he retired, and became interested in merchandising, Rice & Co. being successors to AY. S. Field &, Co. in the business now conducted by Andrews, AYise <Sz Putnam. After a very successful career of about ten years, he sold out and became connected with the management and construction of the now Springfield Southern Railway, with which he continued to be actively interested about throe years; in the meantime, he had purchased and become sole proprietor of the " Springfield Curved Elbow," which he still continues to manufacture with marked success. By reason of his connection with this patent, he became the defendant in the case known as that of Price vs. Rice, one of the most tedious, as it was the most per sistently prosecuted and firmly defended, suits known to the courts of Clark CucLae ; aft;. i lux < o Lxi.c4.A0 ill CaIc Court of C'-m-luiaOu xheas, and a nearing by appeal in the District Court, Air. Rice triumphed, and, though the litigation cost him a good-sized fortune in money, and more in annoyance, he defeated what he then considered and what lie now considers a very carefully planned and ably executed attempt to levy blackmail under cover of a claim for indebtedness. In 1879, he purchased the stock of the assignee and succeeded to the business of AY. A. Hance, and has since conducted a large and flourishing trade in boots and shoes, at No. 38 East Alain street, under the firm name of James Neill & Co.. It will thus be seen Air. Rice's life has been an unusually active one; in fact, he has earned the reputation of being indefatigable in business, lie belongs to a family remarkable for their activity and capacity; his oldest brother, John A. Rice, now of the Tremont House, Chicago, has acquired distinction as a hotel manager; another brother, Alyron G., now deceased, was prominent in railroad circles; Charles A. has been connected with the management of the United States & Canada Express Company for the past thirty years; and the youngest brother, Solon AY., has been identified with the mining interests at Gold Hill, Nev., for the past fifteen years. Air. Rice began life for himself as an apprentice, and has worked his way by a life of intense activity, and, though lie has suffered losses, has accumulated a considerable estate, and now owns a number of valuable pieces of city property, including that occupied by the fmus of which he is the financial and managing head; his residence, on Center street, corner of Alulberry, is a fine property; the building, having cost him $17,000, is a model of convenience and beauty. Air Rice has been a member of the Republic Printing Company since its organization, and is a publicspirited citizen, generous toward all worthy charities and enterprises of public benefit His wife, nee Aliss Alaynard, is a daughter of Calvin and Judith Alay nard, of AIarllx>ro. Alass., and a sister of -James F. Alaynard, of the firm of Alaynard, Skinner A: Co., wholesale grocers of Boston. Alass.; her first husband, Stephen AY. Eager, also of Marlboro, Mass., deceased only three mouths after their marriage; her marriage with Air. Rice was celebrated in Boylstou. Alass., Dec. 22, 18-16; this union has daughters and a son: the son died and Addie AL, are still at home; the other daughter is the wife of J. C. Brecht, who resides in Springfield, and is the well-known and reliable conductor of the "Short Line " accommodation between here and Cincinnati, he having held that position from the date of the first train (July 3, .1872) to the present time; his record, in the language of one of the railroad officials, may be summed up in three words, viz., sobriety, honesty, industry. In 1858, Mr. Rice was made a Mason at Marlboro, Mass., and has ever since taken a deep interest in the Masonic fraternity, having been for twenty -one years a member of Clark Lodge. No. 101, of Springfield. In politics, he was a Whig, and, since the organization' of the Republican party, has been voting that ticket, having been always opposed to slavery and in favor of all men being free and equal.

HARRISON RICE, retired farmer; P. O. Springfield. The father of this gentleman was Edward Rice, a native of Massachusetts, who was there married to Lucy Pool, daughter of William and Lois Pool, natives of that State, the family moving to Vermont with Mr. Rice shortly after his marriage. In 1809, they concluded to come to Ohio, and, upon reaching the head of navigation on the Allegheny River, they built a pine log raft, upon which they descended the Allegheny to the Ohio, thence down the Ohio to Cincinnati, where they remained until 1812, when they came in wagons to Clark County, settling in the western part of Harmony Township, south of the present village of Harmony. Here Harrison was born, Oct. 8. 1823, being the sixth in a family of ten children, as follows: Polly, the widow of Alansan Chamberlain, of Indiana; Asa, deceased; Malinda, the deceased wife oi L. j>. Sprague; Sarah, wife of Darius Sprague; Eliza (deceased), Harrison, Alonzo, Celoma (wife of Robert B. Miniiieh, of Piqtia), Henry C. and William. In 1838, Edward Rice sold his farm in Harmony Township and purchased property south of Springfield, upon which a portion of the city now stands, most of it yet belonging to his heirs. He died Jan. 10, 1843, his wife surviving him many years, dying Oct. 22, 1877. The subject of this sketch received a common-school education, and, Aug. 24, 1846, he was married to Amelia Cloudy, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (McReth) Goudy, pioneers of Green Township, who afterward settled on Sec. 19, on the southern line of Springfield Township, where Mrs. Rice was bora Aug. 21, 1826. Seven children have been born of this union, as follows: Althia M.. the wife of George M. Whitcomb; Elizabeth, the wife of Mathew Stewart; Myra, who graduated at the Springfield High School in June, 1878; Edward, a graduate of Van Sickle's Business College of Springfield, receiving his diploma in April, 1872; and Forrest, who will graduate this year from the high school. Mr. Rice came with his parents, in 183S, to the property where he now resides, and farmed the land upon which the southeastern portion of the city is built. Politically, a Republican; a man of honest principles and unswerving integrity, quiet and unassuming in his manners, he well deserves a place in the pages of this book.

WILLIAM RICE, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Mr. Rice lives on a beautiful farm three and a half miles southeast of the city of Springfield; his fine house, good barn and other modern improvements are indications of a tidy and thriving farmer; he engages quite extensively in raising fine hogs of tliePoland- China breed. He was bora in this county Feb. 17, 1833, and is the son of Edward and Lucy (Pool) Rice; his parents were natives of Vermont and came to this county in an early day. William was married, Jan. 3, 1856, to Matilda Goudy, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (McBeth) Goudy; her parents were also early settlers of this county, coming here in 1826. and settled on the farm now owned by Mr. Rice; they have six children, viz., Lillie M.. Laura O., William E., Harry A., Claud F. and Zella B. Mr. Rice has followed farming all his life, preferring it to any other trade; lie began working for himself at the age of lU years, with no fortune but his good name, and, by perseverance and good management, has accumulated quite a fortune. Mr. and Mrs. Rice stand high in the estimation of their neighbors, and enjoy their home and family.

HENRY CLAY RICE, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Mr. Rice lives just beyond the city limits on the south, where he orsns 25 acres of beautiful land, which he has laid off into lots; said plat contains ninety- five very desirable building sites, and is called by its founder Ricevi lie: it contains three streets, viz.. Henry, Clay and Rice. Mr. Rice was born in Harmony Township, Clark Co.. Ohio Sept, 25, 1830: he is a son of Edward and Lucy Rice. When 14 years of age, he began the trade of saddle and harness making, at which he worked some three years, but, on account of poor health, was obliged to seek different employment; hence he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked six years, and since then has devoted his time chiefly to farming. He was married, Aug. 1 2, 1855, to Sarah S. Dean: their children are Ida Belle, Edward A. and Harry C. ; Ida was married, Nov. 27, 1879, to Willis Little; Edward was married, Nov. 24, 1880, to Alice Pool. Mr. Rice is a man of good moral character, honorable and upright in all his dealings, and possessed with a warm, genial spirit, which prompts him to many acts of kindness; although a sober, industrious man. yet he loves a day of recreation, and still keeps up the practice of taking a deer and wild turkey hunt once a year.

ALONZO RICE, farmer; P. O. Springfield. He was bom in Harmony Township, this county, July 8, 1825; is a brother of Henry C., and lives on an : 7y ' ' 0 °5 : - . - t TT ;uy; tkoiv land is a part of the farm purchased by their father. When Alonzo was 17 years old. he served two years as an apprentice at the blacksmith's trade in Springfield, and then two years as journeyman, when he took a half- interest in a shop, and, at he end of one year, started a shop for himself, which he carried on some two years; he then removed to New Moorefield, this county, where he lived three years, working at his trade, when he returned to Springfield, and, after working at his trade for a short time, he concluded to quit blacksmithing, which he did, and since then has been a farmer. He was married, June 22, 1847, to Mary E. Alt, sister of George and Daniel Alt ; they have five children, all living -Adam L.. who was married, Oct 20, 1870, to Florence E. Monahan; Lucy J., who was married. Nov. 10, 1870, to Caleb Bird; Maria E., who was married. Sept. 25, 1872, to Charles M. Toland: Mary Belle, who was married, Dec. 20, 1877, to Wesley McDonald; and Charles A. The four who are married live in sight of their parents, and Charles is still at home. Mr. Rice was a member of the Sons of Temperance for several years, and is a strong advocate on the side of temperance. Politically, he casts his vote with the Republican party, and among his fellow-men is regarded as an honorable, upright citizen.

J. W. RINEHART, deceased. James Workman Rinehart was born December 1(3, 1827. in Waynesburg, Greene County., Pennsylvania; was one of nine children, his father, Jesse Rinehart, being of German ancestry; he was educated at Waynesburg College, after leaving which, at 19. he commenced his business career as a dry-goods merchant in his native town. In 1852. he came to Springfield and established a hardware business, which he continued for nine years. In 1801, he transferred his business to Leavenworth. Kan., where he remained until 1806: returning to Springfield, he commenced the manufacture of furniture, in which he did not continue long; becoming dissatisfied. he bought Mr. John Petts' interest in the agricultural manufacturing firm of Petts Sc McConnell, to which firm he added great strength by the accession of his means and business ability; he was a scrupulous, just, accurate and exact man. Mr. Rinehart was twice married; first, to Miss Caroline M. Pennock. of his native town, who died leaving two children- -Joe Workman and Lucy: the former died Dec. 24. 1870. aged 17, and the latter is the wife of Joseph D. Little, of Springfield, Ohio. His second wife, who survives him. is a daughter of F. E. D. McGinley, a journalist of La Fayette, Ind. ; she has three beautiful anti interesting daughters - Emeline, Jessie Earle and Florence, the eldest of whom is attending the Springfield Young Ladies' Seminary. Mrs. Rinehart and daughters reside in the palatial family mansion on High street. Mr. Rinehart's death occurred at Springfield in 1870; the firm, as it was constituted at his death - Rinehart, Ballard it Co. - is still conducted under the same name, Mrs. Rinehart and Mrs. C. P. Ballard (who is also widowed) retaining their interests. The names of Rinehart and Ballard are inseparably connected with Springfield's best interests.

THOMAS ROBERTS, boiler works, Springfield; is a native of Ohio, born in Knox County in 1841. Although but 17 years of age, he was among those who answered the first call for troops in 1861, and, after serving three months, re-enlisted for three years and served the full term in the 4th O. Y. I. After his return from the army, he began work as an apprentice in a boiler-shop in Mt. Vernon, and subsequently worked at his trade there a number of years. He came to Springfield in 1870, and was employed by Thompson A Kingsbury; after about six months, Mr. Roberts bought out his employers, and has since conducted business for himself, being associated part of the time with liis brother, who is now proprietor of boiler works on Washington street. Mr. Roberts has thus risen, by his energy and industry, from air employe to the head of an important industry, manufacturing the Victory corn-grinder at his machine-shops, on Bridge street, between Spring and Gallagher, and doing a large business in the manufacture of boilers at the L off el works. Mr. Roberts married Miss Eliza South, of Mt. Vernon; they have five children - three sons and two daughters.

B. F. ROBERTS, boiler works, Springfield; is a native of Ohio, born in Mt. Vernon in 1848. He learned his trade at C. A G. Cooper's boiler and engine works, and came to Springfield in 1869, and worked at his trade here a short time, then began business for himself with his brother Thomas ; shortly after they started the works on Washington street, his brother withdrew, since which he has continued the business alone; he is now manufacturing all the boilers for the Common Sense Engine Company, and doing a thorough business. He married, in 1872, Alice Teagarden, of Mt. Vernon; they have two children living and two deceased. Mr. Roberts is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and au industrious, useful citizen.

WILLIAM RODGERS, banker, Springfield. Mr. Rodgers is a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1809. He came to Springfield when a young man, in 1832, and engaged in merchandising, being a partner with Peter Murray, who was then a prominent and successful merchant here, and Mr. Rodgers has since been identified with the business interests of Springfield. After several years of merchandising, he sold out and retired from business on account of his failing health, but bought a tract of wild land north of the city, the clearing and partial improving of which he supervised. In 1851, he became connected with the banking interests of Springfield as a constituent member of the company who organized the Springfield (now First National) Bank/ of which he has been a. Director since its organization. Mr. Rodgers is a quiet, unostentatious, but enterprising and useful citizen. He married, in 1841, Miss Sarah Harrison. Both Mr. and Mrs. Rodgers are members of the Second Presbyterian Church, of which he is a Trustee. His residence is a handsome property on North Limesi on 1 street, where they have resided since 1843.

JOHN H. RODGERS. M. - D., physician, Springfield; is a native of Springfield, a son of Dr. Robert Rodgers; the latter was a native of Pennsylvania. and removed from Cumberland County, in 1832, to Portsmouth. Ohio, and came to Springfield the following year, where he practiced medicine until about 1873, when his health began failing, and his decease occurred in February,

1880. Dr. Rodgers was one of the oariy physicians of Clark Comity, and. for a period of forty years, was a leading physician of Springfield. He married Hiss Effie Harrison, who was also a native of Pennsylvania, and survives her husband, now residing at the old home residence, northeast corner of North Limestone and North streets. They had a family of four sons and three daughters, of whom six are living, all residents of Springfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Springfield in 1884; was educated at the Miami University at Oxford, Ohio, and is also a graduate of the Medical Deparment of the University of Pennsylvania. He began the practice of his profession in Springfield in 1856; in the fall of 1861, he entered the United States service' as Assistant Surgeon of the 44th O. Y. I. : after eighteen months' service in this position, he was promoted to the rank of Surgeon and assigned to the 104th O. Y. I., in which he served until January, 1865, when he returned to Springfield and resinned practice, and has since continued, and is now one of the leading physicians of the city.

RICHARD HENRY RODGERS, manufacturer of grain-drills and cider - mills, Springfield. Mr. Richard Henry Rodgers was born in Springfield on the 23d of September, 1836, and has been a life-time resident of the place; lie has three brothers and two sisters, and of the former, Dr. John H. Rodgers, a prominent of Springfield, is the oldest. Our subject's twin brother, Isaac AY., is of the firm of L. Patric A Co., of this city, manufacturers of hot-air furnaces, and the other brother, James CU, is in the First National Bank of Spring - field. In 1S66, Mr. Rodgers married Miss Alice Kilgore, who has borne him two sons and one daughter. His mother is still spared to her sons, but their father died Feb. 14, 1880. a victim of softening of the brain. Mr. Rodgers' career has been somewhat varied, but uniformly successful; when quite young, he attended AVittenberg College, but left at 17, before reaching the higher classes; he entered Brown & Co.'s drug-store, remaining two years, after which he was a year* or two in the office of the Sandusky Railroad, from which he went into the Chuk County Bank, of which his uncle was Cashier, and there he remained until the bank changed hands, about 1857; after this event, he went to St. Louis, doing for one year a wholesale and retail carpet business; returning to Springfield, he entered the County Treasurers office, acting five years in the capacity of Deputy County Treasurer; while yet in this office, he bought an interest in a bookstore, the firm being Ransom A Rodgers; Ransom going to the army, he conducted the business until Ransom's return, when he bought his partner's interest, becoming sole proprietor, Air. Ransom going to Cincinnati. Mr. Rodgers continued the book business until 1867, when he bought an interest in the firm of Jewell A Ludlow, which, in 1872, became the present firm of Thomas (Joseph W. and C. E.), Ludlow (Abram R.) A Rodgers. They manufacture, under special patents, agricultural articles for which there is a constant and increasing demand, and, having all the business they can handle, the linn's prosperity has been marked and pronounced, and their future bids fair to be even better, if possible. Air. Rodgers is an excellent type of the modem business man; has clear-cut, iron- gray features, very prepossessing appearance and pleasant address; his family and self are Presbyterians, and he takes lively interest in the North Side Chapel.

VvTLLLVAl ALLEN ROGERS, deceased, was a distinguished lawyer and Judge, was born Dec. 13. 1809, in Dauphin Co., Penn.; his father, Robert Rogers, was a farmer and miller; his maternal grandfather, AVilliam Allen, was a Colonel in the army of the Revolution, and was wounded and taken prisoner at the battle of AYhite Plains. The subject of this sketch received his primary education at the common schools, and, after a preparatory course of study, entered Dickinson College, Carlisle, Penn.; after graduating at this institution, he studied law with Judge Kennedy, of Pittsburgh, and, on the completion of his studies, was admitted to the bar in that city. In the fall of 1834, lie removed to Ohio, settling at Springfield; he first entered into partner ship with Gen. Anthony, and. after practicing his profession with him for a year ur so, he commenced the practice alone; he was very successful in his profession, and soon acquired an extensive practice. In 1839, he was sent as a Delegate to the Harrisburg Convention, which nominated Gen. Harrison for the Presidency; he took an active part in the political campaign of 1840, and was a popular and effective speaker; he was an earnest anti-slavery man, but, subsequently. took no active part in politics, until 1848, when he co-operated with the Free-Soil party. In October. 1851, he was elected, under the new constitution, Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in the Third Subdivision of the Second Judicial District, consisting of the counties of Clark, Greene, Warren and Clinton: in 1855, he resigned his office, on account of failing health, and., on the 25th of May of the same year, he died, at his house in Springfield. While upon the bench, he displayed a profound knowledge of jurisprudence, and this, with his urbanity and impartiality, won for him the confidence and admiration of the bar. On Sept. 0. 1837, he married Miss Elizabeth Smith, daughter of George Smith, of College Hill. Hamilton Co., Ohio, originally from Dorsetshire, En- _ 1 ; nd: h >m A i ioi v re bom six children - three sons and three daughters, all of whom, with their mother, survived him. Judge Rogers was distinguished for his public spirit, zealously participating in whatever was calculated to promote the welfare of the community and ameliorate the condition of the poor and unfortunate: he took a special interest in deserving young men who were ambitious to success in the legal profession, and never failed to render them any assistance in his power: the Hon. R. A. Harrison, now of Columbus, Ohio, was one of his students; on Mr. Harrison's admission to the bar, he located in London, Madison Co., Ohio, where Judge Rogers had a good practice; he immediately formed a partnership with Mr. Harrison for business in that county, the partnership continuing until Judge Rogers was called to the bench; Judge White, now of the Supreme Court, also studied law with him; on Judge White's admission to the bar, he was taken into partnership by Judge Rogers, and this firm also continued until the latter went upon the bench. Judge Rogers was endowed with a brilliant intellect and with remarkable powers of analysis; he possessed a sparkling wit, was a logician of high order, and his eloquence was rich and impressive; these qualities made him an effective advocate and formidable antagonist in any case which he espoused; he was a man of broad culture, and of liberal and comprehensive views; he was not only distinguished for his professional learning, but also well versed in the sciences and in general literature, and he had a high appreciation of the beautiful in nature and art. The -writer of this sketch, who was intimately associated with him. never knew a man of a nobler and a more generous nature; of him it can be truly said that, as a Judge, as a lawyer and as a man, he was without fear and without reproach.

E. S. S. ROUSE, dealer in boots and shoes, Springfield; is a native of Ohio, born in Muskingum County in 1828; the greater part of his youth was spent on a farm in Knox County. When about 21 years of age, he engaged as salesman in a general merchandise store in Mt. Vernon. He first embarked in business on his own account as a boot and shoe dealer, in 1855, in Mt. Vernon, where he continued until ISOM, then removed to Mansfield, where he continued the same line of trade until 1805, then sold out and purchased a farm in Ashland County, which lie sold in 1808, then removed to Springfield, where lie has since been engaged in business in his chosen line, boots and shoes; his store is located at No. 20 South Market street. Mr. Rouse carries a large stock, and is doing a thriving trade. He married, in 1850, 51 iss Melissa J. Oglevee, daughter of Hugh Oglevee, and a cousin of State Auditor J. F. Oglevee; this union has been blessed with three sons, two of whom are living - Olin O., in the store with his father; and Wylie J., an accomplished stenographer, now engaged as amanuensis at the Farmer's Friend Works at Dayton. Mr. House's father was a pioneer settler of Muskingum County, and a soldier of the war of 181*2; he now resides at Mt. Vernon, being in his 85th year, having been born in New York State in February. 1795. Mr. Rouse is an enterprising, public-spirited citizen, a member ot the High Street M. E. Church, in which organization he has been for a number of years Treasurer, and a member of the Board of Trustees.

FRANK CAREY RUNYAN, dentist, Springfield. Dr. Frank C. Runyan is a native of this county, being born in Pleasant Township in 1838, and comes of two of the oldest families of this section, Carey being the family name on his mother's side, and they came from New Jersey;, his paternal ancestry were from Virginia. His grandfather opened the first tailor-shop in Springfield. Dr. Runyan is. to a great extent, self-made; he worked on the farm until he was 20, near Catawba, then traveled, prospecting and trading, in Minnesota and Wisconsin, for a few years, after which he attended the Ohio College of Dentj ii'j 1 Ci? 1 . gj 1 ting in 1S72 cane to Springfield, practiced his profession ten years in copartnership with Dr. Phillips, and for the last eight years he has practiced alone, being the leading man in his profession in this city. On Nov. 5, 1874, he took a partner for life, in Miss Georgie W. Drury, of this .city, whose family are from Maine; they have a son of 18 months, and a daughter of 3 years. Dr. Runyan's parents are both living, his father being now 68 and his mother 60 years of age. The Doctor is a man of pleasant and prepossessing manners.

L. E. RUSSELL, physician and surgeon, Springfield. We are proud of this means of perpetuating the name of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch - Dr. L. E. Russell. He was bom in Burton, Ohio, and from his 10th year has made his own way in the world. His first term of tuition was. taken in Hiram College, at the close of which he received the highest recommendations from its President, J. M. Atwater; he afterward studied law, and also commenced the study of medicine, his superior mental powers giving him an impetus that rapidly distanced his competitors. In 1871 and 1872, he attended lectures at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating with honor in February. -1872, in the class accorded the praise of the different Professors as having attained the most thorough medical knowledge of any in the history of the college, extending over a period of almost half a century. Sept. 28. 1814, in the District Court of Mahoning County, Ohio, Dr. Russell was admitted to the bar and licensed to practice as attorney and counselor at law and solicitor in chancery. Ho preferred the practice of medicine to legal lore, and his high attainments admirably fitted him for the practice of medicine and surgery. After practicing three years in Trumbull Co., Ohio, he came to Springfield in 1870, and a partnership was formed with Dr. J. T. McLaughlin. These geutlemen have gained a reputation equaling any physicians in the West during their partnership, and the most important cases of surgery in the city, and many cases elsewhere, have been operated upon by Drs. Russell and McLaughlin, and cures have been effected that have for years baffled the physicians of the county. Too much, then, cannot be said in praise of those who deserve it, and this is certainly well-merited. In 1879, Dr. Russell was elected President of the Ohio State Medical Association - the first time this important office has been held by any except "pioneers" in medicine, thus adding additional luster to his already bright record. His success is due entirely to his own exertions, and his fame as a skillful surgeon is being rapidly extended. It is important, then, that the record of such men be preserved, and that the citizens of Clark County feel proud of one who will surely rank high among the most expert surgeons in Ohio. Springfield has many things in which to take pride - her manufactories, her schools, her churches, her prosperity, and, lastl\ , the many noble men who are represented in the biographical part of this work.

WILLIAM N. SCHAEFFER, insurance and brokerage, Springfield; one of tbe old substantial residents of Springfield; he is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Center County in 1805. Kis parents emigrated to this State in 1815, locating in Germantown, Montgomery Co., where the subject of this sketch grew to manhood. He married, in 1829, Susanna, daughter of Rev. Thomas Winters, and remained there "keeping tavern" until 1837, when he removed to Dayton, and was proprietor of the "Mansion House" about two years; then removed to Lebanon, and kept the Mansion House of Lebanon until 1845, when he removed to Springfield. Here he engaged in the manufacture of candles, which he continued until 1858, when coal oil superseded him. The following season was spent in Tennessee in the tree trade. Subsequently he sold out his property interests, and engaged in insurance, and brokerage, which he still continues. He lias three children living; two sons are in business here, and the o i'uu, (i Mrs. CMliuriuc Williams, M > living here, Mr Scli^eifer is

-one of the prominent old residents of Springfield, and, although now in his 76th year, is still active, and with the exception of a slight defect in hearing, is in full possession of all his faculties, and does a considerable business in his line. For the last fifteen or twenty years, he has not kept house, but resided with his son. Charles II.. who is a leading grocer of this city. His place of business, No. 51 East Main street, is one of the pioneer stands, and now the oldest grocery stand in Springfield. He was connected with the business of this establishment sixteen years; first, as clerk, then as partner, and for fourteen years past has been sole proprietor. He married, in 1865, Frances A., daughter of Lawrence Knepfiy, one of the early residents of Springfield, a jeweler by trade, and a prominent Mason. This union has been blessed with three children, two of whom are living. His wife died in April, 1879.

PETER A. SCHINDLER, undertaker, Springfield; is a native of Maryland; was bom in Frederick County in 1820. In his younger days, he had considerable reputation as a teacher of vocal music, and was engaged in that profession several years in Maryland. In 1850, his wife having died, he came West and located in Springfield, and taught music throughout the surrounding country. In 1S52, he engaged in the furniture trade here, as a member of the firm of P. A. Schindler A Co., who were manufacturers and wholesale and retail dealers, this being among the first manufacturing establishments of importance in Springfield. Mr. Schindler continued in this business until 1871, after which he was variously engaged until 1873, when he entered in a partnership with J. L. Coleman, which partnership still exists. Their place of business is the northeast corner of Main and Fisher streets. They are supplied with elegant hearses, and a large stock of burial caskets of various designs, and are in readiness to attend to all calls promptly. Mr. Schindler is a member of tbe English Lutheran Church, and has been the trusted Superintendent of the Sunday school connected with that denomination, which is second to the largest school in the State. He married the second time Mrs. Caroline ( Routzan) Keller, the widow of Dr. Ezra Keller, the founder and first President of Wittenberg College. She was also a native of Maryland, and in her youth a playmate of Mr. Schindler. They have one son Charles- - who is proprietor of a bookstore on West Main street. Mrs. Schindler has a daughter by her first husband, who is also a member of the household.

REV. JOHN Al. S CHU CHAR DT , Rector of St. Bernard's Church, Spring: field. "We present our readers a brief sketch of Rev. John Schuchardt, who, by reason of his position, is endeared to so many of the inhabitants of Springfield. Ho was born in Patorbom, Gomarv, in 1 83.1 ; he commenced his studies in D asset - dorf, on the Rhine, and entered the high school at that city while in his 12th year; lie gi'aduated in Cologne in his 21st year; he afterward graduated in the academy at Aluenster, having attended this institution three years. He then at tended, and afterward graduated in the academy at Bonn, and, to complete his theological education, went to the academy of St. Sulpice, in Paris. Upon his return home, he cared for his parents, who were both ill for one year, when he was drafted into the Prussian army, and had a taste of soldier life for eighteen months. Therefore he has seen hardships, as well as the brighter sides of life. By reason of his superior fitness, he was during this time graduated to the position of 2d Lieutenant. His term of service expired in 1860, and the death of his parents, and also of his brother and sister soon afterward, so changed the current of his thoughts, that he determined to emigrate to America., which was at once acted upon; in the fall of 1860 he landed in New York. Having friends in Cincinnati, Ohio, he paid them a visit, and while there took charge of a school. By the advice of his confessor, he returned to St. Mary's University at PU '; - . \y? ere was ordained Priest by Archbishop Spaulding, in 1864.

In 1S66, he went to Kentucky, and was placed in charge of a circuit "consisting of four counties," as a traveling missionary. This was arduous work, but our reverend father bore it uncomplainingly. In October, 1869, he was appointed by Archbishop Purcell to the charge of St. Bernard's in Springfield, where he is nowT stationed, and by his geniality and friendship has endeared himself to thepeople of this city, both old and young. Through his efforts, the church and school buildings were erected, and a cemetery purchased. The education of the children of his charge is well cared for, and his name will ever be remembered with kindness by those who so often have listened to his ministrations. His education is the equal, perhaps, of any man in our county, and he is one of the most able theologians in the city. His light will ever shine, and the principles inculcated by him ever be a monument to his memory.

MISS SUSAN SINTZ, Springfield: she is the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Creitz) Sintz. She lives three miles northwest of Springfield, on the farm which her father entered. In 1858. the yem* he died, he was preparing material for a new house. Susan, being an energetic lady, pushed the work to completion, erecting a beautiful brick mansion, in which she resides. Peter was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Clark (then Champaign) Co., Ohio, in 1802. Elizabeth, a native of Virginia, came here (with her sister, Mrs. George Croft) about the same time. In 1803, the same year that Mr. Sintz. entered his farm, he built a log cabin (which is still standing), in which lie lived until his death. The first preaching that was had in that part of the county by the Methodists was held in this cabin, and the first person converted and to profess religion in that neighborhood was also in that cabin. His name was Jeremiah Sims. When Air. S. first settled in this county, the Indians were very numerous, and sometimes quarrelsome. On several occasions, Mr. and Airs. S. were compelled to sleep in the woods. All's. S. would sit in the saddle, on the horse, all night, with her babe in her arms. They shared the "ups" and "downs " of pioneer life. Peter worked for Robert Rennick in the mill, and, in 1826, built the lirst Hour-mill. He afterward erected two other flour-mills and three saw-mills. Of Peter and Elizabeth's seven children, but four are now " living, viz.. Airs. Alargaret Lellel, Airs. Martin Snyder. Peter and Susan.

JACOB SEITZ, grain and coal dealer, Springfield. Almost a half century has passed since the subject of this sketch came to Ohio. His parents, Henry and Mary Seitz, emigrating from Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1831. settling near the village of Springfield, which at that time was only a small hamlet. Henry purchased a farm one and a half miles from town, and engaged in agriculture until his death, which occurred a few years later. His children were six in number - Andrew, Isaac, Elizabeth., Henry, Jacob and Catharine; two are deceased - Catharine and Isaac. All were born in Pennsylvania, but haye been associated with this county since their coming, and are still residents except Henry,' who emigrated to Kansas in 1870, living previously in Coles Co., 111. As we wish to speak at this time particularly of Jacob, who. by reason of his business tact, is one of our self-made men. we may premise by saying that he worked by the month for the money that was the nucleus around which capital gathered through his industry and natural aptitude for business. His education was all gained before he left Pennsylvania, at which time he was 12 years of age, being born in December, 1818. Notwithstanding the lack of education, he has always been a remarkably fortunate business man. his perceptive faculties being largely above the average. In 1840, he commenced the milling and distilling business in this county, and during the past forty years, has been continually engaged at these occupations. In 1847, liis marriage to Miss , Mary A., daughter of Daniel Stineberger, Esq., was celt- bx ateu, and, m iSDi, a paiim « ship was t>r;n cl in the mill and distillery between Jacob and Mr. Stineberger. the firm name being Stineberger & Seitz. This was continued until 1855, when Mr. Seitz disposed of his interest and came to Springfield, and has been connected with her business interests ever since. They were parents of three children - Theodore H.. Olive E. and Laura B. Theodore was 21 years of age at the time of his death. Olive is the wife of Charles Anthony, a son of one of the first settlers in the county, and whose sketch will be of great interest. Charles Anthony is now engaged in the grain business with his father-in-law. Mr. Seitz was elected County Commissioner in 1SG9. and also served as Alderman one term. His modesty has always been a bar to his having official positions, he being much averse to public life. As a man, his life has been characterized by those traits which ennoble and give confidence to the people- - always foremost in enterprise, and liberal in every sense of the word. He purchased the St. James Hotel in 1805, and has sincemade large additions to and otherwise improved it. making it first-class in its accommodations. He is still owner of 200 acres of hi gM y -improved land, his love for agriculture making this almost a necessity, his circumstances warranting his retirement from business, but his active spirit rebels at the idea of idleness. He has been a friend to tlie needy, and is one of whom Springfield may feel proud.

J. II. SEREF, Springfield: was born in Pennsylvania Dec. 20, 1838, and is the son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Hoke) Serif, natives of that State, he having been a soldier in the war of 1812, and liis father, Philip, having served in the Revolution. Mr. Serif grew up and was educated in the "Keystone State," and in 1802, enlisted in Capt. Sano's Independent Cavalry Company, re-enlisting in 1803 in the 0th Pennsylvania Cavalry, serving under Sherman until the war closed, and being one of the escort which received Johnston's surrender. In 1 800, he came to Springfield, where he carried on the hardware store for about eleven years, and, in 1871, opened a millinery establishment, in which he is at present engaged. He was married, in 1809. to Louia M. Worthington, a native of Springfield, to whom have been born two children, both now deceased. Mr. Serif and wife are members of the English Lutheran Church. He is District Secretary of the State Sabbath School Union, and a member of the Executive Committee. Politically, a Republican. He is considered one of the progressive, enterprising business men of Springfield, and has many warm friends.

HENRY M. SHEPHERD, clothier, Springfield; is a native of this part of Ohio; born in Champaign Countv in 1826. When about 14 years of age, Mr. Shepherd began his commercial career as clerk, and was engaged at intervals in different towns in this part of the State. In March, 1817, he came to Springfield and became connected with the Poos' as a clerk, and has since resided here. In 1852, he became a member of the firm of Poos, Norton & Shepherd, and con - tinued to be connected with some of the Poos brothers in business here until 1872, after which he conducted a merchant tailor's and clothier's establishment until 1S76; was then out of mercantile business until 1879, when he formed the present partnership of Shepherd A Hart, and they have since conducted the clothing trade at No. 23 East Main street, both having practical experience. Messrs. Shepherd & Hart are prepared to and do conduct a first-class business. They carry a complete stock of clothing and gents' furnishing goods, and by special arrangements are agents for one of the most extensive manufacturing firms of the East, where they send orders for special custom work. Mr. Shepherd has not only been actively connected with the business of the city, but has also been identified with public enterprises; was one of the constituent members of the company whoso enterprise secured Fern Cliff' Cemetery; and he has been the trusted and efficient clerk of the company since 1876. He married, in IboZ, Miss Margaret J., daughter of Levi Rinehart, deceased, a prominent citizen of his day. Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd have a family of three children. Their residence is No. 181 East High street.

JOHN S. SHEWALTER. City Clerk, Springfield; is a native of Ohio. His parents, Jacob and Arabella (Aby) Shewalter, were natives of Virginia, butremoved to Ohio about 1837; subsequently returned to Virginia; then removed to Tennessee, where they resided until the rebellion caused a breaking up of the family to some extent. The father died at the home of his sister in Clinton Co., Ohio, Jan. 16, 1864. The mother still survives, and now resides in this city with her son, who is the subject of this sketch. He was born in Clermont County April 14, 1838, and accompanied his parents to Virginia and Tennessee, where he was "conscripted" for service in the Confederate army in the fall of 1862, but before he was secured, he left with a company for Kentucky, who made their way over the mountains into the Union line, which they reached at Richmond, Ivy., in December, where most of their number enlisted in the United States service; but John S., knowing the extreme risk if he should be taken prisoner, kept on North until he arrived in Springfield, where he has since resided with the exception of about eight months' service in the 58tli O. V. 1. He is father was a miller, and he learned milling with him, and also learned the trade of molder. After his return from the army, he returned to Tennessee, but found everything in such chaotic condition that after eleven months' stay, he returned to Springfield, and was employed here as molder. In January, 1870, at an especial election, he was elected City Clerk, and re-elected at each successive contest since. He is a member of the Central Methodist Episcopal Church, and also of the I. O. O. F.; of the latter, he has been a representative to the State Grand Lodge, and was a visitor to the Grand Lodge of the United States held at Indianapolis in 1875. He married, in 1868, Miss Margaret E. Garey; her decease occurred in 1877. Two children survive her - a daughter and a son. Mr. Shewalter married again in 1878; his second wife being Miss Ann W. Clienowaitli, of Pickaway County; from this marriage has been horn one child - a daughter.

JOHN A. SHIPMAN, Postmaster, Springfield; is a native of Clark County; a son of Clark and Ruth (Ambler) Shipman. Mr. Shipman, Sr., was a native of Elizabeth, X. J., aud removed when a boy with his father's family to Keu tucky. Having an elder brother residing in Springfield, he came here in 1815, and resided here until Ins decease in 1828. Ruth is the daughter of John and Annie Ambler. Mr. Ambler was a native of New Jersey; came to Springfield in 1808, and was a prominent citizen during his lifetime. He was Treasurer and Auditor of Clark County in early days, and his daughter, Iluth Shipman, now in her Slst year, relates how her father used the kitchen for his office and the upper part of the cupboard for a safe. The subject of this sketch was born in Springfield in 1829. "When 15 years of age, he engaged as an apprentice in a furniture factory. After serving the usual three years, he purchased an establishment and conducted that business until the spring of 1861. Then sold out, but remained with the firm as Superintendent until 1875. In 1876, he received the appointment of Postmaster at Springfield, which position he still holds to the evident satisfaction of a majority of the community. He was a member of the City Council several terms, and Chairman of the Finance Committee a number of years, and is thoroughly identified with the growth of Springfield. He married Fanny, daughter of William Grant, Sr., whose biography also appears in this work. From this union there are three children - Anna, Warren and Earl. Mr. Shipman is entirely a self-made man. having commenced the battle of life at 15, with a widowed mother to support; learned his trade, and by pvmrrry iv^ncf.w nrw^ careful management, succeeded in securing a competence. He has now a number of residences and other valuable property besides. His home is No. 150 West Main street, where he has erected a fine brick dwelling of modern design on the same lot, and adjoining the little brick built by his grandfather Ambler, more than threescore years ago.

LEWIS SKILLINGS, deceased. The father of this deceased pioneer was born near Berlin. Prussia, in the year 1750, and was a soldier in the Hessian army, which the English Government purchased of the German States to aid in crushing American liberty, but. in 1776. he, with three others, deserted, rather than fight against a people struggling for freedom, narrowly escaping detection. Air. Skillings moved farther away from the scene of conflict, settling in Maine, where he was. married to Alary Blagdon, to whom were born the following children: Lewis, John, Charles, Hannah. Alary and two whose names are unknown.

AVliile working in the forest of his adopted State, he was killed by a limb of a tree falling upon his head, leaving a family of small children to the care of his widow and Ins eldest son Lewis, who was then but a small lad, yet faithfully did he discharge the trust, and by constant toil he cared and provided for the family until his 22d year, when he started for the Far West in search of his fortune, his mother surviving for many years, dying in 1857, aged 94. Lewis Skillings was born in Alaine in 1789, and. in 1810. we find him at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was engaged in carrying produce, on flat-boats, down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Soon afterward, he came to Clark County, and settled in the northeastern part of Green Township, moving thence across the line to Springfield Township, where his son Eben now resides. He was married to Ann Craig, daughter of John Craig, who was born near Onion River, Conn., AIarch 29, 1792; came with her parents to Ohio in 1807, and the following spring settled in Harmony Township. Of this union seven children were tarn, viz., Mary, the deceased wife of James Lay bourn, deceased; Hannah, the wife of Jonathan Alason, of Green Township; Sarah, the wife of Abel Lay bourn, of Harmony Townshi p ; John, deceased : Lewis : Eben : and AVesley. deceased. It is unnecessary to speak of the privations and hardships undergone by Air. Skillings and wife in their early married life: suffice to say, that theirs was the lot of every pioneer of the Alad River country, and nothing but t lie patience, pluck and energy, which it was their good fortune to possess, could have converted the country from a dense forest into one of the finest improved counties in the State. He and wife were life-long members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he was a Class- leader in Fletcher Chapel for twenty years; his wife died June 15, 1866, and, in December, 1869, he also died, leaving to their children a handsome property, the result of industrious, economical habits, owning at the time of his death 800 acres of hist -cl ass land. In his will he left §20 per year for twenty years to Fletcher Chapel, and there in that same graveyard this honest, upright old couple, found their last resting-place on earth, leaving to their posterity a name and character above reproach.

EBEN SKILLINGS, farmer; P. O. Springfield. lie lives in a fine, large house in the southeastern corner of Springfield Township. He is engaged quite extensively in farming, and pays some attention to the raising of tine stock. He is the son of Lewis and Anna (Craig) Skillings, and was born June 16, 1833, on the farm where he now lives. He was married on New Year's Day, 1857, to Susan Runyan, daughter of Isaac and Rebecca Riuiyan. They had one child - Laura A., who was joined in wedlock. Jan. 14, 1875, to Rev. J. II. Hollingsworth. Susan departed this life in April, 1860. Mr. Skillings was again married, April 30, 1863, this time to Pho?be A., daughter of David and Susan (Smith) Paullin. Of this union five children have been born - Otis G., Susan L., Wesley, Sarah E. and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. Skillings are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, which is located near where they live. Mr. S. has been one of the Trustees of said church over twenty years, and is still serving in said office. Mr. Skillings' father came to Ohio in 1810, and settled in Cincinnati, and moved from there to this county the same year, where he remained until death.

PETER SLACK, dealer in guns, pistols, etc. He was born in Peterborough, Eng., in 1820; came to America in 1850; after stopping in Cincinnati two years, he then came to Springfield and established his present business. When he was 15 years old, he began his apprenticeship of gunsmith, at which he served five years. At the end of that time, he opened a shop and carried on business ten years. Before leaving England, he was married, in 1849, to Maria Manton, to whom six children have been born, four of whom are still living, viz.: Alfred J., Charles M., Lucy 51. (now Mrs. 51. D. Johnson) and Laura A. 5Vhen Air. Slack arrived in Cincinnati, he had §100, and during his stay there he added another 8100 to it, and with the 8200 he began business here, and by close application to his trade and honorable dealing with all his customers, he has accumulated quite a handsome fortune; he has been a consistent member of the Methudist Episcopal Church for thirty- five years, and at present is one of the Trustees of the Center Street 5Iethodist Episcopal Church of this city; he has held different official positions in said church for twenty years, and has always been a liberal and cheerful giver. Alfred was born in Cincinnati, November, 1852; learned his trade (that of gunsmith) witli his father, having worked in the shop from his youth: in 1873, his father gave him a half interest in the store. He is a young man of good, moral habits and excellent character. He was married in 1875 to 5Iiss Lydia Sparks, daughter of Ephraim and 5Iary Sparks, who were among the early settlers of this county. They have two children, viz. : Leona 51. and Bertha 51. He is Librarian of the Center Street Alethodist Episcopal Sabbath School. His wife was born in this city November, 1849. In 1879, besides doing a business of 820.000 in guns, pistols, ammunition, etc., they handled 826,000 worth of furs aud 850,001) worth of wool.

JOHN J. SMITH, Justice of the Peace, Springfield. 5L. Smith was born April 25, 1837. in Wurtemberg, Germany; emigrated, with his parents, to America, in 1852; after stopping awhile in Erie, Penn., came to Ohio, and located in Salem, and while living there took a trip through this part of Ohio, and in passing through this city the general appearance of the place attracted his attention so much that he concluded to make Springfield his future home, and consequently moved here in 1858; in 1869, was elected to the City Council from t ) i o Second Ward, and was re-elected in 1 ST 1 and 1873; he was elected Justice of the Peace for Springfield Township in 1873, and has been twice re-elected since to the same office. He has been twice married, lirst, in 1860, to Mary E. Hex, daughter of Theodore and Cathrine Hax. With this union three children were born. Mary died in 1874. His second wife was Mrs. Mary Stubbe, widow of William Stubbe (deceased), to whom he was married in 1870. Mr. Smith carried on a grocery and feed store in this city some thirteen years; he attended school froin his fifth year of age until he sailed for America.

JOHN D. SMITH, book-binding and stationery, Springfield. John D. Smith was born seven miles from Chillicothe Dec. 6, 1821, henco is nearly three score years old, and does not look half a hundred; he had six brothers and live sisters, of whom only four brothers and two sisters survive; his parents moved to Millgrove, Warren Co., when he was only 2 years old; soon afterward, they came to Springfield, and Jan. 31, 1837, returned to Millgrove, coming back to Springfield in September, 1842. On Dec. 18, 1844, he married Rebecca Chrest, by whom he had five children, one son and four daughters, of whom they lost the son and one daughter. Of their daughters, Emma S. married E. T. Thomas, Mr. Smith's present partner in business; Alice D. married John Davidson in 1869, whom she lost March 1, 1877, and Carrie Lytle married Rodney F. Ludlow, in June, 18/ < . Having lost his wife in the fall of i860, Mr. Smith, on Nov. 2, 1861, married his present wife, Miss Mary E. Woodrow, by whom he has no children. Mr. Smith has had little schooling, none after he was 1 1 years old. In about 1832 and 1833, he worked with Kills A Brichal, then with Morgan A Anthony; afterward worked on a farm, going to Lockport on rainy days to rule for John M. Seely. On coming to Springfield the second time, lie worked with Mr. Baker about eighteen months, taking instructions in book- binding and blank- book making, after which, in September, 1844, he started on liis own account, his business changes being many from that time to the present. He opened in what is known as "'Trapper's Corner/' there continuing sixteen years, having, part of the time his brother for partner; in 1850, he also conducted a boarding-house, merging it into, a hotel, upon selling out his book-binding businees in the fall of 1860; in 1S62, he sold his hotel business to H. F. Willis: worked from March to September, 1862, for E. L. Barrett, then rented from Hastings, and again, with Bar ett, on one-liaif division of profits, to July, 1865. Then he again worked with Hastings on the basis of an interest, until J an. 20, 1879, since which time he has been doing business as at present, under the name of J. D. Smith A Co., the company being his sonin-hiw, E. T. Thomas. He did Hastings' work, as of old, until the 15th of October. Mr. Smith now does the leading business in this line, and has all he and a full force of hands can do in new and enlarged quarters, corner of Main and Limestone streets. He is a member in good standing of Springfield Lodge, I. O. O. F., and member of the Royal Arcanum of Springfield, and one of Springfield's energetic and reliable citizens.

ANDREW SMITH, fanner and bee-keeper; P. O. Springfield. Mr. Smith lives one mile south of Springfield, on the Selma pike, where he devotes his attention to farming and the bee culture; he has at present an apiary of some seventy colonies: he has paid special attention to the culture of bees for the past twelve years, and is thoroughly conversant with all the minutiae pertaining to the care of bees; he also makes a specialty of rearing Italian Queen bees, which he keeps both for his own use and for sale, and any one wishing to purchase either colonies of bees or Italian Queens will do well to call on Mr. Smith. You will not only find him a perfect gentleman, but honorable in his dealings. Ho was bom in Fayette Co., Ohio, April S, 1833, moved to Greene Co., Ohio, in 1837, with his parents, William H. and Maria A. (Vaughn) Smith.

Andrew remained in said county until bis removal to this county, in 1875; ho was married April 12, 1855, to Rachael Baker, by whom four children were born - William E., Jacob 3\I., John A. (deceased), and Mary J. Rachael was the daughter of ISiayl and Huldah (Mills) Baker; she departed this life in 1865. The Millses were among the first settlers of Greene Co., Ohio. Mr. Smith was again married in I860; this time to Mrs. Maria J. Baker, daughter of Lewis R. and Elizabeth Pardue, also the widow* of Anthony Baker (deceased). . Mr. Smith's father was bom in Ross Co., Ohio, and his mother in Virginia. Andrew served during the 100 days' service in the late rebellion, in the 154th O. V. I., and at the close of said service re-enlisted in the 11 0th O. V. I., and served to the end of the war: he was in Gen. Grant's army at the surrender of Gen. Lee.

CHARLES SMITH, carpenter, Springfield. Among the young men of Springfield, mention may be made of Charles Smith, son of Peter and Jane Smith; he was bom in Pike Township, Clark Co., Aug. 4, 1852; his attention was devoted to his studies and the duties of the farm until he arrived at the age of 21 years, at which time he commenced an apprenticeship at the carpenter trade, and has given it his attention until the present. On Nov. 23, 1876, he married Miss Florence Ream, daughter of Jesse and Adline Ream, by whom he had born to him two children, viz.: Gertrude, born Oct. 4, 1877, and Bearwood, bom Feb. 16, 1879. He resided in Pike Township until Sept. 15, 1880, when he moved to Springfield; he and his wife are both members in good standing of the German Reformed Church.

GEORGE SPENCE, attorney at law, Springfield; is a native of Clark County and a representative of that class of men who have come up by their own exertions, from hard-working pioneer families, and he now occupies a leading position in this community; he is a son of William and Elizabeth (Wones) Spence, who emigrated from Yorkshire, Eng., about IS 16, and was located at Cincinnati about two years, being engaged in the fanning line: in fhe meantime had entered land in Pike Township, this county, to which ho removed his family about 1818: he was an active, energetic man, raised a family of thirteen children, eight of whom were sons; he kept a store, dealt in stock, and carried on different business operations in connection with his farm, and became possessed of a large farm, which he handsomely improved; his death occurred in 1847, and his wife died in 1853. The subject of this sketch was bom in Pike Township, May 22, 1828. By dint of energy and perseverance, he managed to obtain a fair education during his early youth, and being of a mathematical turn, at 17 he secured the position of Assistant County Surveyor, which he held several years ; during the fall of 1845, he wTas severely injured by being caught in the "tumbling shaft " of a thresher horse-power, from which he has never fully recovered; he taught school the following winter and began to read Blackstone with a view to seeming a profession which would not require much manual labor, for which he was unfitted ; the following year, he attended the spring term of the Springfield high school and continued his studies, teaching at intervals, and attending a course at Gundey A Bacon's Commercial Business and Law College at Cincinnati in the fall of 1847 ; afterward he read law in the office of Rogers A 'White, and was finally admitted to practice in the spring of 1850; in 1851. he opened a law office, where he has since continued to practice his profession. Mr. Spence has been identified with the growth and history of this city and county for upward of thirty years: took an active and leading part in establishing the street railway, and was a member of Council seven years. Mr. Spence is a Democrat in politics and thoroughly identified with his party in his city, county and State: he was a member of the Charleston Convention, in 1860, and the candidate of his party for State Treasurer in 1865; he mar- ried, July 3, 1855, Miss E. Jane Edmonson, of Dayton, who is related to the Bayard Taylor family, and is a lady of rare accomplishments. She has a wellearned reputation as a botanist, and has a large collection of skeletonized leaves and plants, which includes many rare specimens from different parts of the globe. From this union two children have been born; one son, George E., now a young man, survives. Mr. Spence's energy is a marked characteristic, and to this trait is largely due the success to which he has attained, in spite of his early disadvantages. In addition to his practice, which has been large for years past, he is recognized as one of the leading criminal lawyers of this portion of Ohio, and in the selection of juries, and pleading before a jury, he is considered almost invincible: his outside business has been extensive, and in 1862 he bought 40 acres of land west of the city, which he platted and improved, and this is now' known as Spence's Addition to Springfield; his residence is a part of this tract, fronts on High street, and is a handsome suburban property and pleasant home.

SAMUEL SPBECHER, D. D. LL. D., Professor of Systematic Theology, Springfield. Me point with pride to this sketch, although so brief in detail; it represents the correct busy life of one of Wittenberg's oldest professors; one who has bravely stood at his post for thirty- two consecutive years; by his careful training, many of the noble young men, graduates of this institution, were developed in the philosophcal and theological branches and have made their names and reputations such as becomes those who have been educated carefully, by one who understands fully the requirements of all pertaining to this system, and through them additional luster has been thrown about our friend, Dr. Sprecher. His parents. Philip and Mary Sprecher, were born in Pennsylvania, and their parents were natives of Germany. Philip and Maiy Sprecher were parents of twelve children, of whom Dr. Sprecher is the youngest. He was bora in Washington Go., Md., Dec. 28, 1810; his father was a farmer, but fortunately for his son (the status of education being very low in the neighborhood), a schoolhouse was built on bis father's farm; here the rudiments of an English education w'ere gained; his desire for knowledge increased with his years, and many books were purchased with the spoils of the chase (he being fin expert at trapping); at the age of 16, he engaged in the mercantile business; at 19, commenced an academic course, also a theological course in Pennsylvania College, at Gettysburg. Penn. His first charge was Harrisburg, Penn., extending over a period of four years; in 1841, he took charge of Frey's Academy, at Middle town. Penn. : from 1843 to 1849, was Pastor of a church in Chambersburg, Penn. ; June 1, 1819, he was elected President of Wittenberg College, and also assigned Professor of Theology and Mental Philosophy, which were continued until 1874, when he. resigned the Presidency and continued his Professorship in the same department until 1880; he is now Professor of Systematic Theology, and is the publisher of a treatise on the groundwork of Lutheran Theology, that is acknowledged by critics to be one of the best w'orks of the kind ev**r published; he is now engaged in the compilation of another equally interesting and valuable work, a system of theology. Generations hence will have words of praise for the mind that has made the obscure path of theology plain as the noonday sun. To Dr. Sprecher is due the thanks of the people of our common country, who, devoting a long lifetime to the needs of rightly understanding this matter, and his works w ill be read over and over again long years after his form has passed from earth, but tho brightness of his mind will thus be preserved for ages. His marriage to Miss Catharine, daughter of Rev. J. George Smoker. D. D.,of York. Penn., and sister of Rev. S. S. Smoker, D. D., Principal of the Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Penn., w'as celebrated in 1836. Rev. J. G. Smoker was one of the most talented men of his day; his name was familiar to every member of the Lutheran Church in the United States; he was also the author of a number of important theological works. The children of Dr. and Mrs. Spreeher were ten in number; two, George, the eldest, and Isabella, an infant, are deceased; Samuel P. has charge of a church in Oakland, Cal. ; Mary O., wife of C. K, Shrink, of Cincinnati; G. A. Spreeher is a physician of Cincinnati; C. S. Spreeher is minister at Ashland, Ohio; Laura C., wife of Charles E. Lewis, of St. Louis, Mo.; Luther M. is also engaged in the practice of law in Cincinnati; Elenora, wife of Frank P. Davidson, Principal of Northern Building Public Schools, Springfield, Ohio, and Edward, the youngest, is attending the school of pharmacy in Cincinnati, Ohio. The death of Mrs. Catharine Spreeher occurred Nov. 7, 1879; this was a severe blow to the doctor, from which he is yet not fully recovered; her presence was his greatest joy, and their lives were closely blended. We are glad to have an opportunity of perpetuating, in the history of this county, the name of one who has done so much for the youth of our land, who one and inseparably revere his name.

CLAUDIUS J. STEUART, clerk, Springfield. Pie was born in Springfield Dec. 20, 1863. Attended school until 1 1 years old, when he entered his father's store as clerk. He is a son of James D. and Alice Steuart. James D. is a son of Joseph C and Nancy T. Steuart. He was born in Butler Co., Ohio, July 2 5, 1828; came to Clark County with his parents in 1834. They located three miles north of Springfield. In 1840, Joseph came arid moved into town and opened a grocery on Main street, and continued the same until 1855. He was the first dealer that offered fresh oysters for sale in Springfield. Plis stock would consist of about tvro cans per week, and part of them would spoil before he could find sale for them, as the people then were not used to eating oysters. Joseph was a native of Pennsylvania; he died in 1876. His widow still sur - vives him; she is now in her 73d year. Of their nine children, all are living. James D. clerked in his father's store from 1840 to 1850, when he went to California. He was with the troops in the engagement of Col. Ormsbv against the Black- Snake and Flat-Head Indians. In 1800, he returned to Springfield and started a grocery, which he continued ever since. He was married, x4prii 8, 1858, to Alice Baker, daughter of George and Elizabeth Baker. They have four boys and two girls living, having lose two by death. Mrs. Steuart was born in England in 1840; she came to America in 1847. James D. was a member of the City Council twelve years, and Infirmary Director seventeen years. His beautiful brick house on North Limestone street s lands on the lot where Humphrey Nichols, the noted counterfeiter, had his shop, in which he made his counterfeit money. 5Ir. S. has in his possession one of the dollars (made by Nichols) dated 1801, which he (Steuart) found when he was preparing to build.

CHARLES STEWART, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Mr. Stewart is one of the large land owners of Springfield Township, and engages largely in raising and feeding stock. He is the fifth child and fourth son of John T. and Anna (Elder) Stewart, and was born in Green Township, this county, July 17. 1825. The most of the Stewart children are living at present in Green Township. Charles has always lived in this county, and moved to the farm where he now lives in 1805, and built the fine large house in which he now resides in 1871 He was married, Feb. 10, 1854, to Isabell Jane Nichelson, daughter of Andrew' and Rachel (Hammond) Nichelson. They had two children - John A. and Inez A. Inez died when quite young. Isabell. his wile died March 29. 1859. He was again married, March 23, 1.805, this time to Jessie, daughter .of Jolm and Catharine (Blair) Mathewson. Catharine was born in Fail, Scotland, Oct. 27. 1844, and emigrated with her parents to America in 1852, and settled in Logan County, this State. With this union six children have been born - Annette, April 21, 1800; Catharine Aun, April 10, 1808; William M., July 20, 1870;

Mabel, Sept. 17, .-1872; -James B., Sept. 8, 1875, and died May 3, 1880; Jessie Belle, Nov. 13, 1878. John T. (the father of (diaries) and his brother, Samuel Stewart, came from Pennsylvania in 1808, and entered the land now owned by the Stewart family. Samuel was Captain of a company in the \sar of 1812, and was among the prisoners who surrendered under Gen. Hull. The account of said surrender can be found in the history of Ohio, which appeals in this book. Mr. Charles S., familiarly known, as Charley Stewart, is a gentleman in every sense of the word. He is of a generous and noble spirit, and his good wife is a lady of inestimable character.

HENRY STICKNEY, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Lives live miles east of Springfield, on his beautiful farm called ' Walnut Hill." He was born Nov. 28, 1821, in a log cabin that stood near his present home. He was married, Nov. 11, 1851, to Isabell J. Baird, daughter of William D. and Sarah Baird. Their only children, William, James and Sarah Jane, are still living at home with their parents. William takes great delight in the breeding of fine hogs, of which he has some very fine ones. To Mrs. S. belongs the credit of planning and arranging their beautiful and convenient home. Mr. and Mrs. S. have been consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1850. John fhNJrvwj the fCher of Henry', was born in Yorkshire, England, in the year 1780, of poor parents, therefore had but few advantages and but few opportunities, excepting the privilege of obtaining a good trade. His father being a blacksmith, John was initiated as apprentice in his father's shop, when so small as to require a block to enable him to reach the bellows handle or strike at the anvil. He continued this apprenticeship, assisting his father in maintaining the family until 28 years of age, when he (John) was united in wedlock with Sarah Cook, of the neighboring village. John, with bis trade, a good constitution, an indomitable will, and a fixed purpose, and his wife's willing hands and 8300, set out to battle for a fortune. He began business, first in one shop: and after a little while in two shops, which stood some distance apart, working in each alternate days; walking from one to the other. Providence smiled upon their endeavors, and when having acquired sufficient money to carry them to the new world, they resolved to live no longer under kingly rule, but would embark for the land of the free, which they did in the spring of 1819, with their offspring - John, Harriet and George, also grandmother Cook, who was 80 years old. After a voyage of eleven weeks, they landed at New York, where they took the boat for Philadelphia, and then by wagon over the mountains to Wheeling, where they and another family purchased a flat-boat and proceeded down the Ohio River. On arriving at Cincinnati, they found teams (that had brought cheese to the city from Clark Co., Ohio), which conveyed them to Clark County, the long-desired haven. After a short rest, Mr. S. began to ply his trade in a low shanty, which stood over a mile from his home. As was the custom in England, he asked permission of his neighbors to walk to and from his shop across their fields, which excited a smile among them. In the spring of 1820, he bought 100 acres of land at 84 per acre, on which he built and. occupied a house and shop the same year. Mr. S. now began to supply a need much felt in the neighborhood, that of axes, mattocks and irons for large breaking plows. Also the iron work for tlour and saw mills, which he wrought by hand. He furnished the iron work for three different mills on Beaver Creek, between the years 1823 and 1832. Said mills were destroyed by tire, and new ones have been erected in their stead. In the year 1835, Mr. S. bought 70 acres more land at 87 per acre; and, in 1836, 160 acres more of Humphrey Nichols, the noted counterfeiter. John and his wife Sarah by this time begun to realize that they had failed the Scripture injunction, "Seek first the kingdom, etc.," but sought an earthly inheritance. So in 1837, they sought diligently to secure a title to a better and more enduring inheritance, and identified themselves with the M. P. Society. Afterward for convenience to church, changed their membership to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and devoted the evening of life in preparing ior that change which is certain to. come to all mankind, which came to John Stickney March 6, 1850, and to Sarah, his wife, April 17, .1867, in the 84th year of her age. Of their children, but two are now living - Henry Stickney and Mrs. M. A. Whiteley.

Fit A NK P. STONE, civil engineer and County Surveyor, Springfield. Mr. Stone is the son and only child of Nathaniel F. Stone, who is a native of Vermont, and came to Ohio in 1828, and located in Dalton, where he married Francis G. Prentis, who was a native of New Hampshire. Subsequently Mr. Stone resided in Greene County, near the Clark County line, and, since 1850, has been a resident of this city, now in the S2d year of his age. His first wife died in 1834, when F. P. was but 18 months old, and Mr. Stone subsequently married Mrs. Maria Bates, daughter of Gen. Benjamin Whiteman, a sketch of whose life appears in ** Howe's Ohio Collections." Mr. Stone has been actively connected with the business of Springfield; was one of the constituent members of its first organization, of what is now the First National Bank, and is now and has since boon a Director. He opened an agricultural and seed and iron store here in connection with \V. S. Field in 1851. They were succeeded by Bice & Co. in 1864, since which lie has been retired from active business pursuits. The subject of this sketch received a rudimentary education in the public school, and graduated at Erbana University. Springfield became his home in 1844, and has been since, although he was absent most of the time until 1866. having been engaged as engineer on different railroads and other important public enterprises. His first engineer work of public importance was in connection with the construction of theC., P. A I. (now a part of the Panhandle Line) in 1851. In 1857, he made the survey and located the Sioux City Bailroad. and was engaged on similar work with other roads until 1862, when he entered the United States service in the same department and continued until ' the close of the war. In 1866, he was connected with the construction of the Union Pacific, after which, in the same year, he opened an office here in Springfield, and. although lie lias since operated on different lines of railroads, he has had an office here continuously. In 1878, he was appointed County Surveyor to fill the vacancv caused bv the resignation of Chandler Bobbins. Jr., and was elected to the same office the following year. He has been actively identified with the construction of each of the lines of railways now in dark County, t he Springfield Southern, and is the present County Surveyor in connection with which by the employment of help, he does a considerable amount of civil engineering.

A. E. TAYLOR, Springfield; was born in Clark Co., Ohio, close to the city of Springfield, May 28. 1850, and is the son of Samuel and Nancy Taylor, natives of Maryland, who settled in this county in 1849, where his mother died in 1867, his father being now a resident of Enon. Mr. Taylor was reared in Clark County, and received his education in its public schools. In 1867, he began the profession of teaching, which he has since continued, being now Principal of the Western School of Springfield. He was married, Sept. 10, 1870, to Ada M. Gibbs, a native of Cincinnati. Ohio, to whom has been born five children. Mr. Taylor and wife are members of the Christian Church, and lie belongs to the I.' O. O. I'.: also the O. D. 1. F. He is a quiet, unassuming gentleman, wiio attends strictly to his professional duties, being considered a thorough and efficient teacher, who is trusted and respected by all who know him.

C. C. TAYLOR, coal dealer, Springfield; was born in Trumbull County in 1833. His father was a carpenter and builder, and owned a farm near Brook- field. The subject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade, and worked with his father a number of years. Studied architecture and drawing with J. 0. Johnson, now State Architect During the war, was engaged as photographic artist, and carried. on an extensive business at Warren, Trumbull Co. Jn 1865, he came to Springfield and has since been engaged in the coal trade. He was the first to make an exclusive business of this trade in Springfield, and his success has been followed by the establishment of similar dealers. This firm, now Taylor, Hayden & Co., is situated on Limestone street, near the railroad depot. An idea of the extent of their trade may be known by the fact of their having paid as high as 860,000 freight on coal in one year. Mr. Taylor married, Jan. 2, 1856, Miss Mary J. Watkins. She was a resident of New York. From this union two sons were born, one of whom survives - Benton C.. who is now book-keeper for the linn of Taylor, Hayden A Co. Mrs. Taylor died in 1866. In November, 1868, Mr. Taylor united in marriage with Miss Ella V. Clark, niece and ward of M. W. Fisher. Mr. Taylor is a member of the Council from the Sixth Ward : belongs to the Masonic fraternity; is a member of the High Street Methodist Episcopal Church, and a member of its Board of Trustees; also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Springfield Female Seminary. A stanch and reliable temperance man, and thoroughly identified with the growth and progress of the city. His father was a pioneer of Trumbull County, and his grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The latter lived to see his 9Sth year. His mothers people were Quakers.

AARON TEEGARDEN, deceased. Dr. Aaron Teegarden was one of those men we do not soon forget - one whose strong points of character projected themselves, as it were, into the notice and memory of the public, without any apparent effort of his own. He is as fresh in the recollection of the Springfield of to-day as in the year of his death, which occurred Aug. 17, 1874. He was born in Columbia Co., Ohio, the 16th of July, 1808; came to Springfield in 1810. in the prime of vigorous manhood, where he met his wife, Tliurza Watson," Ilf this'cmj who was born' her e off May" 6; 1820, and whom he married in 1843. The Doctor was raised on a farm; studied medicine in Mansfield. Ohio, graduating at a college at Worthington ; he practiced awhile with liis brother at Mansfield before coming to Springfield. Of six children, they weie fortunate in raising all but one daughter; of these surviving five children, William Teegarden is a practicing physician, residing on his farm, two and a half miles from the city, on the Charleston Pike; the younger son, Watson, is in San Francisco, in business with his brother-in-law; is 16 years old, and has been to college and military schools; their oldest daughter is Mrs. Sallie Cummins, a minister's wife; the second is Mrs. George Arthur, and the third Mrs. Tliurza Campbell, living in San Francisco; her husband is proprietor of the "Golden Age Flouring-Mills," and is a large exporter of wheat to China and other Eastern ports. Dr. Teegarden's family were originally from Pennsylvania, and his father was a minister. The Doctor's practice here was oppressively large, and his prosperity great; he was a man of gigantic proportions, beingsix feet four in height, and proportionate size, a commanding presence, and possessed of an iron constitution; bis death resulted from a severe febrile attack of the typhoid nature. Of such extent was his practice that two horses barely sufficed him, besides his office practice; his presence in a sick room was hailed as the harbinger of speedy and sure recovery. His extensive ami lucrative practice placed his family in the most comfortable circumstances, and Mrs. Teegarden, his most estimable widow, now lives in their comfortable home on West Main street, opposite her only sister, Mrs. Green, in whose society she spends much of her time; she is one of those ladies of the good old-school type - gentle, kind, refined and motherly, the true lady in every word and rnovej

ED III YIN TENNANT, manufacturer, Springfield. His father, William B. Tennant, is a son of David and Elizabeth (Barr) Tennant, and was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., April 9, 1820; he came to Ohio and to Clark County with his parents in 1837; they located in what was then called New Boston, and now known as the " Cl ark- Shawnee Battle-Ground." David died in September, 1844, and Elizabeth in September, 1879. William taught his first school when he was 23 years old. and taught during the winter terms for twenty-two years, teaching seventeen successive years in one district, known as the Bockway School ; during the summers, he followed stone and brick laying. He was married, April 29, 1849, to Salome Shellabarger, daughter of John and Julia A. (Neimand) Shellabarger: she was born in Pennsylvania Sept. 18, 1820, and came to Ohio and to Clark County with her parents in 1834, and settled on Donnels' Creek, in what is now Bethel Township: of William and Salome's five children, four are now living - Isaac N., Ed Irvin, Bebecca C. and Susan A. Irvin was bora Sept. 5, 1851, and, when 10 years old, began the trade of blacksmith, at which he served an apprenticeship. He is proprietor of the wagon and blacksmith shops at Sugar Grove, one mile west of Spring-field, where he carries on quite exienoEcij oho Imre of spring wagons, etc. ; he is also engaged in the sale of bnggies, under the firm name of Tennant & Moses, West Main street, Springfield, where they keep a full line of first-class work. He is a Knight Templar, of Palestine Commanderv, No. 33. Although a young man, yet he is active and energetic in business, and displays the judgment, in all his business transactions, of an old and experienced mind.

JOHN II. THOMAS, manufacturer of agricultural implements. Springfield. John Henry Thomas, in all that relates to the moral health, business prosperity, industrial progress and general advancement of Springfield, is unquestionably one of its foremost men, having been, ever since his advent in this city, thirty years ago, one of the few to whose enterprise, energy and public spirit the almost phenomenal growth and uniform business prosperity of the city is largely due. He was bom in Middletown, Frederick Co., Md., Oct. 4, 1826, the sou of Jacob Thomas of that place: Marshall College, Mercersburg, Penn., was hi alma mater, from which he graduated in 1849; he commenced reading law with Hon. S. W. Andrews, of Columbus, Ohio, completing his course wfith the Hon. William White, of this city, to which he came in .1851; .after two years' practice, he was the recipient of a flattering tribute to his popularity and hold upon the confidence and esteem of the public, by being chosen Ilecorder of Clark County, which was the more complimentary by reason of his then brief citizenship. At the close of his official term, he abandoned the law and politics, and engaged in what has proved his life work, commencing business under the firm name of Thomas & Mast, for the manufacture of agricultural implements, in 1857, under the disadvantages of small capital and limited resources, and in a year memorable as one of the periods of universal financial disaster and ruin, its masterly management from the outset carried it successfully through the commercial, industrial and financial chaos of that terrible year, and, in a few years, it had steadily, but rapidly and healthfully, advanced to the magnificent measure of 81,000,000 of annual sales, and the employment of several hundred hands. In the times which tried to the utmost the financial ability of the stanchest concerns, and tie* skill and nerve of their proprietors, when others were inert, paralyzed and dazed, by the almost universal ruin and shaking up of values, Mr. Thomas, with his able coadjutor and honored fellowcitizen, Mr. P. P. Mast, carried their establishment through with unimpaired credit, the stronger for the ordeal.

house until 1872. withdrawing in that year, with the purpose of retiring from active business. His energetic nature and active habits of life, however, prompted him, after a rest of two years, to resume the business of manufacturing, associating with him Lis two sons, William S. and Findley B. Thomas; lie accordingly established the present large establishment of John H. Thomas A Sons, for the manufacture of agricultural implements, chiefly of horse hay-rakes and steam engines; an idea of the volume of the business done by this firm may be had by reference to the industrial department of this work. On behalf of his two sons, the juuior partners of the concern, Mr. Thomas purposes investing the entire future profits of the business in its extension. Aside from Mr. Thomas' private enterprise and its marked success, he has ever been a promoter of all public enterprises, improvements and advancement, and the city's welfare in every respect He is a stockholder in three and a Director of one of the National Banks of the city, and connected generally now, as in the past, with nearly all its important corporations and industries, and as Chairman of the Finance Committee in the City Council, of which he was many years a member^ he distinguished himself as an able financier, richly meriting the sobriquet, " watch- dog of the city treasury," and to his strong influence and efforts while in that position is greatly due the present health} condition of the city's finances. Mi. Thomas*, high position in the- -community is all the more creditable when viewed in connection with his political faith, -he being an uncompromising Jeffersonian Democrat, in a community that is counted a Republican stronghold, almost all of his business associates and personal friends being "stalwart" Republicans. Although a modest and reserved man, who never projected his views or convictions in politics or religion into public notice, his political predilections have frequently caused him much personal inconvenience and annoyance, especially during the late war with the South, dining which his loyalty was absurdly questioned by that thoughtless, unreasoning and arbitrary class of which every community is unfortunately largely composed. But, despite insult and the estrangement of friends and old associates, he stood firmly by his principles, his adherence to which the logic of events and subsequent experience have not shaken. His influence extended to State as well as local politics, he receiving, in 1S6S, the nomination to Congress from the Eighth District, and a higher tribute could not be paid him than the result of that election, in which he reduced a usual Republican majority of 3,000 to about 100. He has ever been a strong, active, able and effective advocate, in private and public life, of temperance, and it was upon the strength of his broad and practical views on this question that he was returned to the City Council in 1875. In all the relations of life, Mr. Thomas was ever deemed eminently reliable, and the exponent of the greatest firmness of purpose and integrity of motive, having an abundance of the quality vulgarly but appropriately called "backbone." His religious faith is Presbyterian, he being a member of the First Presbyterian Church, of which he is also one of the most liberal supporters. The position of Mr. Thomas and family in social life, is of course of the best. In 1854, lie married Mary, youngest daughter of the Hon. Jacob Bouser, of Chillicotlie, their family consisting of two sons and two daughters. Mr. Thomas has tliree brothers living in Springfield, and also engaged in manufacturing agricultural implements, viz., Joseph W., Charles E. and R. P. Thomas, of the firm of Thomas, Ludlow A Rodgers, whose business is also very extensive. Although no necessity exists for further effort or devotion to business, being in excellent health and possessedeven yet, of much of his old-time ardor and energy, Mr. Thomas is to bo found daily at his post, finding the greatest pleasure in the discharge of its duties.

of the best of them; sturdy, burly, frank, square, energetic, intelligent and liberal; his neighbors say of him, as they did of his father, "Thompson's word is as good as his bond." Mr. Thompson is in the very prime of life, having been born Sept. 25, this county; his ancestors on both sides are English; his mother is still living, at 71 ; his father, well-known and loved by this community, passed away in February of this year. Christopher Thompson was President of the Lagonda National Bank (and the vacancy has not yet been filled); he was always prominent in the stone business (to which his son, William S. succeeded some years ago), and he it was who gave the first impetus to the Springfield lime business, which has grown to be so important an interest. Chris. Thompson commenced life in Springfield with four English sovereigns as his entire capital; his career was a most creditable one and his honor unimpeachable; but in paying just tribute to the father's memory we are forgetting the son. Mr. W. S. Thompson married Miss Matilda C. Layton, of Bethel Township, on April 24, 1860, and their family consists of two sons and one daughter. Mr. Thompson lias, for years, done the greatest part of the stone contracting of Springfield, two-thirds of all being a moderate estimate. Among the buildings for which he has had the stone work contracts, way be mentioned, all the Champion Works buildings, Lagonda House, and the buildings adjoining and opposite the Second Presbyterian Church. The stone work is no inconsiderable part of a building here, as the soft, yielding nature of the soil requires very deep foundations. Mr. Thompson has been very successful, and lives in a handsome home of his own, surrounded by auxiliaries of refinement and culture.