Clark County, Ohio - The whole text, 1881 (part 15 of 20)

JASPER BODKIN, farmer; P. O. Catawba. He is a son of Charles Bodkin, native of Virginia, w ho came to Ohio with his parents in an early day and located near Cincinnati, where he lived a short time previous to the late rebellion ; he moved to this county and located in Pleasant Township, where he lived till his death ; he served in the war of 1812, and was at Hull's surrender. The subject of this sketch was born July 29, 1843, upon the farm where he resides; was raised and educated a farmer. During the late* rebellion he enlisted in the 16th O. V. A., and served to the close of the war. After his return home, he engaged in farming and stock-raising, and still continues in the business. He owns the old homestead containing 132 acres.

WILLIAM COFFEY. Catawba. The first white man who settled within the borders of Pleasant Township, was Joseph Coffey, a native of New Jersey, boru Nov. 15, 1776, whose father, Joseph, was a native of the same State, of English descent. The family moved to Pennsylvania, where Joseph, Jr., met and married Jane McCoy, born in the " Keystone State" March 15, 1771, aud daughter of John McCoy, a native of Scotland, who, when a young man, emigrated to Pennsylvania and served throughout the Revolutionary war. Joseph Coffey. Sr., and wife, resided in Pennsylvania until death, and the family were members of that peace-loving society known as Quakers. Joseph, Jr., with his wife and one son, Tatom, in the spring of ISO 2, started for the Western wilds, coming down the Ohio River on a flatbout as far as Cincinnati where they remained until the following spring; Joseph in the meantime taking a trip of observation to what is now Clark Co., at which time he decided to settle in this portion of the State. In the spring of 1803, he started through the dense wilderness with his family and worldly effects in an ox-cart, arriving upon the farm which he made his future home May 6, of that year ; here he built a ** camp," which was a rude three-sided structure of logs with \an open front, and thus began his pioueer life in Ohio ; he soon afterward erected a cabiu, the foundation stones of the large fire-place being vet visible, and, in 1 807, built a hewedlog house which had a brick chimney, glass windows, sawed-lumber floor and door, aud, in fact, was the finest house in the township at that date ; this building is yet standing, is in a good state of preservation and is yet used by William Coffey for general purposes; here Joseph and wife labored year after year clearing up the land and trying to make a home, and although it was u severe struggle for mere existence for the first few years, yet time and constant, unremitting toil, made a visible change in the dense forest, and comfort came with the passing years ; their children were Tatom, born in Pennsylvania ; Joseph, near Cincinnati ; .John, Sarah and William in this county; the two last mentioned are the only survivors; Sarah being the wife of Enos Neer, of Catawba. Joseph Coffey, although raised a Quaker, died a member of the M. P. Church, Sept. 2, 1833, his wife dying Oct. 2, 1S45, dying as she had lived - a sincere member of the Presbyterian Church. Joseph Coffey was well fitted by nature for the life of a pioneer, being a man of large, muscular frame, of an iron constitution, and possessed of an invincible courage and determination, which carried him through the trials and dangers of those early days. He served as Township Trustee a number of years ; was a much respected citizen, and ever took an active part in all public matters pertaining to the welfare of the community in which he was so long a prominent factor ; his wife was always a faithful helpmate, and often in the early days, when his courage would fail him, she would encourage him to still greater efforts, and prompt him onward to success. The subject of this sketch was born in the hewed-log house heretofore mentioned, Jan. 1 1, 1311, and grew to manhood on the home r... ? .)c?o r eiving- p very meager education, and helping constantly to foil the forest and clear up the land, which has ever since been his home. He was married, Dec. 15. 1831, to Nancy Curl, daughter of Jeremiah and Cynthia (Romine) Curl, the former being born upon the south banks of the Potomac River, in Virginia, Feb. 14, 1778, and his wife, iu Loudoun Co., of the same State, Oct. 15, 1783; her grandfather, Jeremiah Curl, was also a native of the " Old Dominion," his father being an Englishman, who settled in that State. Mrs. Coffey's parents came from Virginia to Clinton Co., Ohio, in 1 803, coming to Clark Co. in 1811, and settling about half a mile southeast of where Catawba now stands ; they had fourteen children, nine of whom lived to maturity ; the family being Samuel (deceased), William /'deceased), James (deceased), Daniel ( deceased ), Elizabeth, Mary, Nancy, Jeremiah (deceased g Benjamin (deceased), Cynthia, George, Temperance ^deceased), Sarah (deceased ; auil Lewis. M rs. Coffey was born within sight of her present home Feb. 28, 1811, and has had four children - -John, who now resides in Iowa; George, who lives on a portion of the home farm ; Mary, the wife of Thomas Roberts ; and Jeremiah, who, while a soldier in the rebellion, took sick at Milliken s Bend, dying in March, 1863, his remai is now resting in the National Cemetery at Vicksburg, Miss. Mrs. Coffey, like most of the pioneer women, is well versed in the use of the spinning-wheel, having spun flax-tow, cotton and wool, and she has woven hundreds of yards of all classes of household fabrics, and yet spends her leisure moments at. the old wheel. Politically, Mr. Coffey is a Republican, and has served as Township Trustee twelve years, and Township Treasurer three years; he lias been a member of the Masonic Fraternity since Aug. 24, 1847 ; he witnessed the Presidential election of 1S20, in Pleasant Township, and the law requiring the ballots to be strung on a thread, but the clerk of the election being out of thread, he used a timothy straw for that purpose, an incident which demonstrates the shifts often necessary iu those early days. Mr. Coffey began in life a poor man, inheriting less thau S80Q from his father's estate, but by buying out the heirs, he became the owner of 196 acres of the old homestead, which the family yet own, besides 176 acres in Iowa, in his home, he is kind, generous and the soul of hospitality, and all will find there a hearty welcome - free from cold formality on the one baud or utter neglect upon the other; in every public movement, he has been looked up to as a sate adviser, and all good citizen- trust, honor and respect him for his moral integrity, his invincible honesty and his unswerving rectitude in ah the relations of life. For nearly fifty years, he and the partner of his joys and sorrows in life's battle, have walked hand in hand, and now i:i their declining years are as trusting as in the days of their youthful vigor, while the lingering sunset of life casts its shadows back over long years fruitful of good and usefulness.

GEORGE W. COFFEY, farmer; P. O. Catawba. George W. Coffey was born July 26, 1837, upon his father's farm iu Pleasant Township; was raised and educated a farmer, and has been engaged in that way and raising stock most of his life. After he attained his manhood, he went West and taught school several terms while there. He returned and enlisted in Company IX 3d 0. V. I., and went forward to battle for this great and glorious Union. He was engaged in a great many hard battles, and was in the Belle Isle Prison a short time. After his return from service, he married Miss Margaret A., daughter of Joseph and Jane Furgason, of this county. Their marriage was celebrated Oct. 24. 1865; they have had three children, viz., Bert, Mary and Kemp. *He owns a nice farm of 42 acres one mile south of Catawba. He is a son of William Coffey, whose sketch will be found in this /work.

GEORGE C. DAVIDSON, farmer ; P. 0. Catawba. He is a son of Lemuel Davidson, a native of this county; was born Nov. 23, 1843, in this township; was raised and educated as a farmer, and has always been engaged in that way. lie was married, Oct. 24, 1S65, to Miss Elizabeth J. Jones; they had six children - John M., Lawrence E., Minnie. Myrtie, Lou, Nettie and Elmer. He owns a good farm in the eastern part of the township, containing .75 acres under good cultivation, with good improvements upon it.

ISRAEL EVERHART, retired farmer ; P. 0. Catawba. He is is son of William Everhart, of Loudoun Co., Va.. where he lived and died. Israel was born May C, 181 1, in Loudoun Co., Va. ; was raised and educated there ; when 18 years of age, he learned the trad/1 of a carpenter, and worked a* it over thirty years. He was married, Dec. 8, 1836, to Miss Maria Ropp, of his native county; they had seven children, of whom six are living, viz. : William C., John A., Thomas F., Edgar S., George H. and Elizabeth M. J.n 1861, he came to Ohio and located two miles south of Catawba, in Pleasant Township, Clark Co. He owns a good farm of 120 acres, with good farm buildings upon it. Mr. Everhart is a highly respected citizen ; he and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

S. C. GILBERT, retired farmer; P. 0. Vienna Cross Roads; a son of Allen Gilbert, a native of New York, who came to Ohio in the year 1814, and located in Harmony Township, this county, where he lived till his death, which was caused by milk sickness in August. 1819. The subject of this sketch was born Feb. 6, 1811, nine miles southeast of Albany, N. Y. ; was raised upon a' farm ; when 18 years of age, he learned the blacksmith trade, and worked at it all his life, with exception of the last ten years, lie has paid more attention to farming. He was married May 29, 1832, to Miss Elizabeth Clark, of Harmony Township. ; they had nine children. Mrs. Gilbert died Feb. 18, 1879, leaving seven children living - Allen, William, Mary, Lydia A., Austin, George and Charles. His farm is located near the south line of Pleasant Township, with good improvements.

WILLIAM HARDMAN, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. O. Catawba. His father, Jonathan Hardman, was a native of Clarksburg, Va., who came to Ohio in the year i806, and located in Greene Co., near Fairfield; lived there until death. Was a minister of the M. E. Church. He was connected with the military ; was Colonel of a regiment. William Hardman was born Feb. 28, 1831, in Pleasant Township; was raised and educated upon a farm ; has always been engaged in farming and stock-raising. lie was married Oct. 29, 1856, to Miss Margaret, daughter of Lewis Birely, whose biography appears in this work. They had four children, viz., Miner W., Belle, and a pair of twins, Eddie and Ella. He has 94 acres in his farm, under good cultivation.

W. L. HOUSTON, farmer and stock raiser ; P. 0. London. Madison Co. Is a son of Thomas F. Houston, who was born Oet. 7, 1818, in Clark Co., Ohio ; was a saddle and harness maker. He carried on the business in South Charleston for twenty-six years ; afterward moved upon his lands in the eastern part of Pleasant Township, and lived there five years. He then moved to Springfield and embarked in the harness and collar business, and continued in it until death, which occurred June 28, 1874. Mr. Houston was well-to-do; most of his wealth he made while in business in Souih Charleston. He was a kind husband and father, and a. consistent member of the M. E. Church. Those who knew him longest knew him best, and his death was an irreparable lo-s to the community in which he lived. W. L. Houston was born Dec. 25,

1843, in South Charleston, this couuty. Was raised and educated in the town until he was 18 years old, at which time his father moved on his farm. He then began tilling the soil, and has been engaged in that way since, lie was married, June 1 , 1871 , to Miss tJeuuic, daughter of Colvin Bales, of Madison Co. Mr. Houston, though raised in town, is strictly temperate - never tasted intoxicating liquors of any kind, or tobacco. lie has be m very successful in farming and stock-raising ; owns a farm of 375 acres, under a high slate of cultivation, with a fine residence and other good buildings. They had two children - Lawrence C. and Maurice. Mr. and Mrs. Houston are members of the M. E. Church.

MILTON R. HUNTER, physician, Ca'awba. Of the great number who represent some profession, and especially that of the medical, there are comparatively few who, by hard study and constant, devotion to their practice, have reached a more perfect degree of security in their profession than that already attained by Dr. Hunter. His grandfather, Jonathan Hunter, was a native of England, who emigrated to Philadelphia, where he learned the tailoring business, afterward moving to Virginia, where he remained until 1805, when he removed with his family to Pleasant Township, Clark Co., Ohio, and entered Sec. 22, in the western part of the township, where he resided until his death. Jonathan, Jr., the father of Milton R., was one of his sons, and was bora in Loudoun Co., Va.. March 14, 1786; came to Ohio with his parents, and served in the Wi*r of 1812. which oroke out a few years after their coming to this State. He followed farming all his iite ; came into possession of the old homestead, and continued to live in the same section until his death, Nov. 18, 1845. Milton R. was born upon his father's farm, ia Pleasant Township, March 24, 1817, and his early life was spent assisting in the farm labors and in attendance at the district school. Upon attaining manhood he began teaching, and in his leisure time read medicine, studying under Dr. J. S. Howell, of Springfield, Ohio. He began the practice of his profession at Catawba, in 1840, and, after attending lectures at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, he graduated in 1S52. He was married, Dec. 27, 1842, to Miss Nancy J. Goodlove, daughter of C. Goodlove, she dying April 3, 1852, leaving two children - Mary C. and Franklin C. The Doctor was again married, Nov. 6, 1860, to Mrs. Sarah McConkey, the daughter of D. C. and Sarah Skillman, from which union they have had three children born to them, viz., Mary, Frederick M. and Sallie C. Dr. Hunter has now been practicing medicine in Catawba more than forty years, and has always done the biggest portion of the professional work in his vicinity. He is a wellread, well-informed gentleman, courteous and generous toward all with whom he comes in contact, pleasaut and affable in his manners, and enjoys the confidence of a large circle of the warmest friends, who respect his ability as a physician, and admire his manly integrity in all things. Has been a member of the M. E. Church for forty -one years; believes in the divinity of Jesus Christ, and that the Bible is a revelation of God.

L. HUNTER, retired farmer ; P. 0. Catawba. Mr. Hunter was born in Pleasant Township, Clark Co., Ohio, Feb. 14, 1814, and is the son of William and Blanche (Hendricks) Hunter, natives of Virginia, he being born in Loudoun Co. Sept. 9, 1777, and died Oct. 4, 1862; and she born in Jefferson Co., Feb. 28, 1787, and died March 26, 1860. William's parents, Jonathan and Nancy Hunter, were born in Maryland, where they were married, and then moved to Virginia, from whence they came to this couuty in 1805, settling in Pleasant Township, where both died. They had the following children : John, William, Jeremiah. Jonathan, George, James, Elizabeth, Nancy, Mary and Rachel, all of whom are now dead. Blanche, the mother of our subject, was the daughter of William and Susan (Taylor) Hendricks, natives of Virginia, who settled in Sec. 28, Pleasant Township, in 1804. Here she died, and her husband moved to Champaign Co., where he remained until death. William came with his parents, and here married Blanche Feb. 1, 1807, and bad by her the following children: John W. (deceased), William { deceased), James M. (deceased), L.

Jonathan, Vincent, Mary Anu (the wife of Nathan Neer) and Miranda (the deceased wife of John Sager, of Union Co., Ohio). Both belonged to the 31. E. Church, and died in that faith. The subject of this sketch grew up in his native township, attending the primitive log schoolhouse of early days, farming and using his strength for the work of clearing and breaking the new ground. He was married, March 1, 1838, to Nancy Marsh, who was born on the farm where Mr. Hunter now lives, Oct 6, 1816. She was the daughter of Israel and Sarah Marsh, natives of New Jersey, who moved to North Carolina where they were married, and from whence they moved to Champaign Co , Ohio, in an early day. They came to Pleasant Township in 1811, where they died, he Sept. 5, 1S42, aged ' 71 years, both being in the Baptist Church until their death. They had five children - Noah, Samuel, Susan, Sarah and Nancy ; ail are now dead but Samuel and Mrs. Hunter. Mrs. Hunter has had seven children - Mary Ann (the wife of J. M. Hodge), William, Lewis (deceased), Sarah J. (the deceased wife of James H. Yeazeilj, Eli, Miranda E. (also deceased wife of James H. Yeazellj and Bruce (deceased). Mr. Hunter has always lived in this township. In politics he is a Republican, and has been Township Trustee two years. He owns TOO acres of land in Pleasant Township, and 290 in Moorefield Township. He is an extensive stock-raiser, and the largest portion what he now owns is the result of his own industry, economy and shrewd business sagacity. He is a man of few words, but many deeds. His honesty, integrity and worth are verified by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

W. P. JACKSON, minister; P. 0. Catawba ; was born Jan. 16, 1835, in Warren L'o., Ohio, was raised and educated upon his father s farm, midway between Pleasant Plain and Level. He attended the Lebanon, Normal, Mainville Academy, and the Ohio Wesleyan University. When the late war begen lie enlisted in the 12th 0. V. I., and went forward to fight for his country. He was engaged in a great many severe the Cincinnati Conference, in September, 1865; was ordained as local Deacon; was transferred to the Hol ton Conference in 1866, and labored in the traveling connection in Tennessee. In 1870, lie was retransferred to the Cincinnati Conference ; was ordained minister in October, 1869. He is at present Pastor of the M. E. Church at Catawba.

WILLIAM JOBLS, Justices of the Peace and Postmaster. He is a son of Richard Jobes, native of Pennsylvania, who emigrated to Indiana in the year 1819, arid located in Wayne County, and lived there ten years, then moved to Warren Co., Ohio, and located near Lebanon. While living there he served fifteen years as Justice of the Peace. He afterward returned to Wayne Co., Ind., and lived there until bis death, which occurred in 1866. William, the subject of this sketch, was born dune 17, 1829. in Wayne Co., Ind. ; was raised and educated near Lebanon, Warren Co., Ohio. There he attained his manhood. He returned to his native State, taught school and clerked iu stores in different towns in the State until 1866. He moved to Champaign Co., Ohio, and began farming near Mechanicsburg, and continued there five years ; he then came to-tbis county and farmed until 1S76. He then quit farming and began clerking fur Joseph Pearson, and holds that position at present. Since he came to Catawba he was elected J ustice of the Peace, and is serving his second term. He was appointed Postmaster in 1877, and still holds the position. He was married, Jan. 13, 1852, to Miss Sarah J; Silvers; they had four children, viz., Alonzo. Joel, Luther and Luella M.

J. W. LANE, proprietor of saw-mill. Catawba. The subject of this sketch was born Dec. 17, 1831, at Danviile, N. fl.; was raised mostly in the town ; he worked some on a farm, then went to Rockland, Me., and worked there a short time in shipyard. Afterward went to Lowell. Mass., and began the trade of a machinist, and worked at it until the spring of 1854. He then came to Ohio, and located in Champaign Co., July 31, 1 854. He married Miss Princess A. Rollins ; they had nine children - Sarah J., Ida E., Willie O., Charlotte M., Drucilla M., Jacob W., Princess C., Alva D. and Sylvester L. September following his marriage they returned to Massachusetts, aud remained there until 1861. They came back to Ohio and locat ed iu Pleasant Township, this county, lie has been engaged in the milling business in Champaign, Madison and Clark Counties since his return. Since 1S73, he has been stationary in Catawba.

A. S. McCUNTOCK, farmer ; P. 0. Catawba He is a son of Alexander Mc-CIintock, a native of Westmoreland CoM Penn., who came to Ohio in 1822, and first located in Licking Co.; lived .there four years; then moved to Knox Co., and from there to Delaware, and from Delaware to Marion Co., where he lived until his death, which occurred 31 ay 23, 1880, at the age of 87 years. The subject of this sketch was born Sept. 21, 1824, in Licking Co., Ohio. He was raised and educated upon a farm. His marriage was celebrated March 21, 1852, with Eliza, daughter of Henry Curl. They had five children - Lucinda J., Mary M., Wm. II., Clara A. and Ulysses G. Mr. 3IcClintock came to this county in the spring of 1845. He has a beautiful iarm of 98 acres, located two miles southeast of Catawba.

NATHAN M. 3IcCONKEY, farmer and superintendent of the Orphans' Home ; P. 0. Springfield. This well-known citizen of Clark Co. was born in Pleasant Township April 6, 1827, and is the son of Daniel and 3Iati!da (Neer) McConkey, he a native of Kentucky, and she of Virginia. " He is the grandson of Archibald McConkey, who settled on the farm yet owned and lived upon by Nathan M., in 1805. He grew to manhood on the old homestead, and was educated in the common schools of his township, afterward attending a select school at Mechanicsburg, Ohio, and began teaching at the age of 10. and has taught in the schools of Clark Co. about thirty years. He was married Oct. 19, ii>4b, to Mary J. Carimell, daughter of Thomas J. and Amanda (Fisher) Cnrtiuell, of Pleasant Township, to whom has been born three children - 31 ary F., 3Iilton M. and Thomas G. In August, 1862, Mr. 31cConkey went into the army, but before going to the field was elected 1st Lieut., Co. G. 94th 0. V. I., serving until mustered out at the close of the war, in 1865. He served through Rosecrans campaign in 1862-63, went with the Fourteenth Army Corps in Sherman's march to the sea, participating in all the battles in that noted campaign, and whnt was singular, in his service of nearly three years, was never wounded. He was at the grand review at Washington, in 1865, and at that time was Senior Captain of his regiment. He, wife and family a*-e members of the M. P. Church, and he has represented his church in several of the Annual Conferences, in 1867 ; was a delegate to the General Conference at Princeton, 111., and also a member of the General Conference in 1880, at Pittsburgh, Penn. He is a member of the 3iasonic Order, and of the Grand Army of the Republic. Politically he was a Whig, but since the formation of the Republican party, he has voted that ticket; he has filled the office of Township Clerk one term, Trustee several terms, Justice of the Peace one term and was one of the County Commissioners from 1870 to 1876. In the fall of 1879, he was elected to the Legislature, and took his seat in the Sixty-fourth General Assembly, and in April. 1880, he was appointed Superintendent of the Orphans' Home, which position he is now filling. 31 r. McConkey is a well-informed, pleasant gentleman, who has hosts of friends throughout his native county.

NATHAN NEER, farmer; P. 0. Catawba. The above-named gentleman was born in Pleasaut Township, close to the present site of Catawba, Aug. 15, 1822. lie is the son of Amos and Sarah (Cunard) Neer, natives of Loudoun Co., 3ra. He was born 3Iarch 3, 1787, and she June 9, 1794. Amos was the son of Henry Neer, who was born in Virginia in 1748, and came to Clark Co. at an early day, locating land where Catawba now' stands. He died Feb. 3, 1828. Amos and wife came to this township in 1817, and first settled on the land entered by his father, but about 1825 he bought a small tract, where his son Nathan nowT lives, adding to it from time to time, until he owned 160 acres. They were members of the M. E. Church. He was a soldier of the war of 1812. and died April 25, 1843. aired 56 years. His first wife died Feb. 25, 1828, in her 33d year. They had seven children - Jonathan, Elizabeth. Ann. Susannah, Jane, Nathan and Matilda. After the death of his first wife he married Mrs. Hannah Golden, wdio was born Jan. 30, 1799, by wdium he had three children- - Joseph II., Amelia (deceased) and Hannah (deceased;. His second- wife died April 1. 1835, and lie was again married to Nancy Toland, born 3Iay 18, 1791, by whom he had.

no issue. The subject of this sketch grew up iu the pioneer days, receiving the average education at the time, and enduring all the trials and hardships incident to pioneer life. He was married, April 25, 1815, to Mary A. Hunter, daughter of William and Blanche (Hendricks') Hunter, whose sketch will be seen in L. Hunter's biography. She was born March 1, 1823, and has had the following children: Levi (deceased, from disease contracted iu the army), William H., Miranda E. (deceased), Luther, Charles F., Alonzo and Laura. xMr. Xeer, when a young man, received from his father's estate $180, which was his starting-point in life. Two years after marriage, tire consumed what little he and his wife had accumulated. Siuce that time, by well-considered economy, he has gathered together, year after year, most of the property he owns to-day. He now has 400 acres, which he made for himself, and 100 that his wife got from her father's estate. Politically, Mr. Necr is a Republican, and, although he has been Township Trustee one term, yet he neither desires or has sought official position. He and wife have been members of the M. E. Church most of their lives. Mr. Neer has always been in favor of schools, churches, aud all classes of public benefits. He is an affable, pleasant gentleman,- and the soul of honor. And it is said by those who know him that his word is as good as his bond, and nothing could tempt him to violate either. In his views he is keeping pace with the progressive spirit of the nineteenth century, and by his example is one of the leaders of his township, although in his unassuming modesty he d'oes not care to be recognized as such.

Township, Clark Co., Ohio. Was raised and educated a tiller of the soil, aud bus always been engaged in that pursuit, with the exception of three years that he taught school when a young man. He was married, March 25, 1852, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of George Runyan, of Catawba. They were blessed with four children - Joseph W., Charles B., Isaac C. and John W. Mr. Rage owns a splendid farm of 120 acres, with good farm buildings upon it. He held the office of Trustee for three terms. He is a son of James C. Page, native of Kentucky, who came to Ohio in an early day and located in Moorefield Township, this county.

JOSEPH PEARSON, hotel and merchant, Catawba ; son of William Pearson, a native of England, who came to America in the year 1832, and located in Catawba. At that time there were only two cabins here, Mr. Pearson erecting the third on the site where the M. E. Church stands. When young he learned the carpenter and cabinet trades, serving seven years as apprentice. He followed his business in the town until death. Joseph was born Feb. 12, 1827, in England; came to America with his parents when small ; was raised in Catawba. When 16 years old. he engaged iu carrying the United States mail between La Fayette and Urbana, and also several other long routes for two years. He then wrent to Cincinnati, Ohio ; was employed as clerk on a merchant boat that run from Cincinnati to New Orleans; was engaged in that business three years. After he began for himself, he learned the cooper trade, and worked at it twenty-three years in Catawba. When the late rebellion broke out, he enlisted in the 44th O. V. I. He held the office of Sergeant ; re-enlisted in the 8th O. V. C. as veterans at Knoxville, Tenn. He was engaged in some of the hardest battles of the war. He was four times married ; first, April 8, 184S, to Miss Nancy Golden. His second marriage occurred Jan. 30, 1S49, to Miss Mary Pliner. From this union they had six children - Joseph W., F. B., Elizabeth J., George F. and Charles L. Mrs. P. died Dec. 10, 1862. Her death was caused by her clothes catching fire and burning her so severely that death soon followed. His third marriage was celebrated Feb. 11, 1864, vvitli Mrs. Elizabeth A. Palmer. From this union they had two children - Ettie May and Elizabeth A. Mrs. Palmer had three children by her first marriage - Jonathan C., Charles and Laura E. Palmer. Mrs. Pearson died Dec. 24, 1868. Mr. Pearson was married the last time Sept. 30, 1869, to Miss Sarah E., daughter of Benjamin Porter. They have one child - Levi Thomas. Mr. Pearson embarked in the hotel and mercantile business in 1875. He is doing a good business in both branches of his occupation. He has held several public offices, such as Trustee, Corporation Treasurer. Council, and member of the Republican

Central Committee fur the last nine years, lie owns a nice farm a short distance north of Catawba, aud also the hotel and business room in Catawba.

HENRY RUNYAN, retired; P. 0. Catawba. He is a son of Abraham Runyan, a native, of Harrison Co., Ya., who came to Ohio in the year 1806, and located in Warren Co. ; lived there until 1811, when he with his family moved to Clark Co., and located in the southwest part of Pleasant Township. With the assistance of his children he opened and improved a farm, the one where H. L. Runyan now lives When he came the advantages for making a living were very limited. He died in November, 1836. PJ is death was caused by a cancer. Henry was born March 15, 1809, in Warren Co., Ohio. Came to Clark Co., with his parents when 2 years old ; was raised and educated, we might say, in the woods. When he attained his manhood he began farming. He was married, June 28, 1832, to Miss Rachel, daughter of John Jones, Sr. They had eleven children, of whom six are living. Mrs. Runyan died Oct. 23, 1853. He was. again married, July 3. 1854, to Mrs. L. M. Chapman, daughter of William Eaton. From this uniou they had three children - Charles H., Lucretia M. and Cora B. When he began farming he continued at it four years ; then for one year he engaged in oil-cloth manufacturing, at which time he embarked iu the mercantile business in Catawba, and continued until 1842. He disposed of his goods and purchased a farm, in Secs. 19 and 25 ; moved upon it and lived there two years. He was engaged in the mercantile pursuit twice afterward in Catawba, selling his stock of goods and purchased alarm each time. He has retired from business now about fifteen years. By industry aud economy he has gathered considerable wealth. He owns several farms in Pleasant Township, and some town property.

H. L. RUNYAN, farmer; P. 0. Catawba. A son of Abraham, and brother of Henry Runyan, whose biography appears in this work. He was born Dec. 10, 1816, upon the farm where he now resides ; was raised and educated a tiller of the soil, and has always be* d in that way. He has been very successful at it, owing to his economy and industry; has 475 acres in two tracts in the southwestern part of the Township. He was twice married; first, June 17, 1841, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John Wright, native of Virginia. Mrs. Runyan died April 24, 1852, leaving two children - Amanda and Peter L. He was again married Jan. 5. 1854, to Miss Mary E., daughter of John Melvin. From this union they had eight children, of whom six are living, viz., Monroe, Mellissa, Etta, Nelsou L., Amos and Fred.

A. R. RUNYAN, retired farmer; P. 0. Catawba. He is a son of Abraham, and brother of Henry Runyan. He was born Oct. 15, 1821. in th s township; was raised and educated as a farmer, and has always been engaged in that pursuit. He was married 3Iarch 5, 1843, to Miss Matilda, daughter of Amos Neer, native of Virginia, and one of the pioneers of this county. Mr Runyan lives in Catawba, and has retired somewhat from hard labor. lie has several farms in the township. He is a local minister in the M. E. Church.

THOS. W. RUNY'AN, farmer and stock dealer; P. 0. Catawba. He is a sou of George Runyan, who was born in Warren Co., Ohio, May 15, 1808; cauie to Clark -Co. with his parents in 1811, and located in Pleasant Township, where he has always lived. Ho is living at present in Catawba retired from all business. He is a son of Joseph Runyan, a native of Harrison Co., Ya., who came to Ohio in the year 1806, and located in Warren Co. Moved to Pleasant Township in the year above mentioned, and opened a farm in the wilderness, and lived upon it until death. Thos. W. was born May 20, 1837, in Pleasant Township; was raised and educated a farmer. When he attained his manhood, he began for himself. He was married Feb. 25, 1858, to Miss Phebe A., daughter of Jacob Deuiory. of Virginia. After his marriage he started a biaek>mith shop ; hired hands and learned the trade with them. He worked at the business ten < >i twelve years; three years in Catawba, and the rest of his time on his Farm he had purchased in the southwest part of this township. He afterward sold this farm and purchased the one where he now resides, located, in the southern part of the township, containing 217 acres under a high state of cultivation, with good improvements. He is one of the substantial and highly respected citizens of this county. They have had two children - Chas. E. and Hattie. Mr. .Runyan claims to be the inventor of the hand corn-planter. When only a small boy, he made a planter which was obtained by some men of Springfield, which gave them the idea, and led them to put out the first planters.

J. MILTON RUNYAN, milling; P. 0. Catawba. A son of Henry, whose sketch appears in ibis work. J M. was born June 20, 1841, upon his father's farm, in this township; was raised and educaied as a farmer, and was engaged in that way until he was 20 years old. He then enlisted in the 16th Ohio Battery, and served oneyear ; then returned home and farmed until 1864 ; he went out in the 100-day service. He was married March 4, 1866, to Miss Mary J., daughter of John McClennen, of Virginia, now living in this township. In 1867, his father purchased the mill, and J. M. began working it, and in three months he took the mill in charge, and has run it since. He ran the mill some time in partnership with his father. He afterward purchased the mill and site and assumed full control of the businses, at which he has made it a success. He makes a very fine grade of flour;' it will compete with any made in the county. He a is wide-awake citizen and business man, and enjoys a very large patronage _of the citizens of this part of the county. The mill is known as the Willow- Grove Mills. They had six children, viz., J. Arthur, Clarence L., Eddie G., Percy E., Chas. L. and Maudie R.

8 A MtlFT WATSON, retired farmer : P. 0. Vienna Cross Roads. A. sen of William Watson, a native, of Maryland, who came to Ohio in 1S37, and located in Green Township, Clark Co., and lived there until 1849, when he sold his farm and moved to Greene Co., and purchased a farm and lived upon it until within a short time previous to his death, which occurred in Jauuary, 1863. He served in the war of 1812. His wife was a daughter of Samuel Dunham, of New Jersey. Samuel WAtson was born April 9, 1813, in Frederick Co., Va. ; was raised and educated a tiller of the soil. When 18 years old, he learned the shoemaker's trade, and worked at it there three years. He, with another young man, started for Ohio on horseback, and arrived at New Lisbon in July. 1S34. He then engaged in working as a farm hand, and also engaged in horsetrading, at which he was very successful. He was twice married; first, Jan. 10, 1S3S, to Miss Mary, daughter uf Jacob Kiser, of this county. After his marriage he leased two acres of ground ana began working at his trade. He lived there four years ; then purchased thirty acres of land and began farming, with his trade. He afterward added to this until he had 153 acres. He lived upon this farm until the fall of 1861, whenhe sold it and purchased the one where he now lives, located i the south part of Pleasant Township, containing 390 acres, with good improvements. Mrs. Watson died Jan. 19, 1874. He was again united in marriage April 11, 1876, with Miss Jennie Steward, daughter of Samuel F., of this county.

THOMAS WINGATE, merchant; P. O. Catawba. He is a son of Peter Wingate, native of Cecil Co., Md., who moved to Delaware in 1834, and emigrated to Ohio in 1844, and located in the eastern part of Pleasant Township, Clark Co; lived there ten years; then moved to the southern part of Missouri, and lived there until his death. Thomas was born Jan. 24, 1827, iu Maryland ; came to Ohio with his parents ; was raised and educated a farmer. When he attained his majority, he learned the trade of a carpenter and followed the business six years. In 1856, he went to Missouri, and while there he engaged in farming six years. He returned to Ohio in 1865, and embarked in the mercantile business in Catawba. He keeps a fine general merchandise store, with a good assortment of the best grade of goods ; is a liberal, wide-awake citizen and business man, and enjoys a good paying trade, and the confidence of a large number of warm friends. He was married Jau. 16, 1853, to Miss Mary Lafierty. They had six children, five of whom are living, viz., Laura, Ella, George, Burton and Maude. Mr. Wingate has held the office of Township Treasurer for eight years.

WILLIAM YEAZELL, farmer ; P. 0. Vienna Cross Koads. A son of Jeremiah Yeazell, late of this county, and grandson of Abraham, a native of Virginia, who came to Ohio at a very early day and located in Moorefield Township, and lived.

there until his death. Jeremiah was born in Moore field Township, was raised and educated there and lived there until his death. The subject of this sketch was born Jan. 21. 1829, in Mooreficld Township, upon his father's farm. Was raised and educated a tiller of the soil, and has always been engaged in that calling. He was married. Jan. 27, 1850,' to Miss Lydia A., daughter of Erastus Bennett, a native of New York. Mr. Yeazell has been very successful in his vocation. He owns the valuable farm where he lives, in Pleasant Township, and also a farm in Champaign Co., 111. They had six children, five living - James, Jane, Ellen, Elizabeth and Mary.

MATHEW ANDERSON, farmer ; P. 0. Springfield. Born in the north part of Ireland, about six miles from Giant's Causeway, in August, 1798. Emigrated to America in the year 1820, and located in Franklin Co,, Penn. Was married, May 26, 1825, to Jane Brown, who was also born and raised in Ireland, coming to this countrybefore Mr. Anderson. By this union they have had seven children, all grown to n.atu lit > UliiA cill It i ViZ.j John, Martha* Agues, Joseph B., Mary Jane, Saliie I>. and Margaret A. Mr. Anderson, after his marriage, lived in ' Franklin Co., Penn., until the spring of 1832, when he removed to Ohio, locating in Clark Co. He lived on rented farms for some years ; he then bought a farm of 100 acres in Sec. 20, Moorefield Township, where he resided twenty years, when he purchased the farm upon which he now lives and has since resided. The two farms consist of 191 acres of land, with good buildings and improvements. Mr. Anderson started in life a poor bov. and by his own industry, economy and good management, he has acquired a good home and property. He saw much of the hardships and trials of the early pioneers, but has lived to see the growth and progress of the county, which now stands among the first counties in the State in good firms and manufacturing interests. His wife died May 26, 1875, on the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding day. The " golden wedding " was to have been celebrated that day. The invitations had been sent out for 200 guests, witli the anticipation of an enjoyable occasion. But He who rules the universe saw fit to call her on that very day to a happier and better world. where they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven." She was a worthy member of the United Presbyterian Church for more than half a century, and raised her children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, and saw the fruits of her labors in the good works. of her children, they all becoming members of the church while young and before leaving the parental roof. Mr. Anderson is now past 82 years of age ; has also been a member of the same church for more than fifty years, and an Elder in the same for over forty years ; and we trust that their teachings and good works - the seed they have sown - will continue to spring np and bear fruit for generations to come.

HORATIO BANES (deceased). Among the early prominent pioneers of Clark Co., Horatio Banes stood deservedly high. He was born in Virginia Aug. 11, 1791, and was the son of Evan and Mrs. Sina (Chenoweth, nee Hayes) Banes, he a native of Pennsylvania and she of Virginia, who came to Moorefieid Township, Clark Co., Ohio, in 1811. locating upon the farm where their descendants yet live, Evan dying Nov. 3, 1827, and his wife March 28, 1836. They had four children - Horatio, Gabriel, Evan and Sarah, all of whom are now dead, the two latter dying in Champaign Co., Ohio. Sarah being the wife of William Chenoweth, and Gabriel dying in Illinois. Horatio Banes was 2n years of age when his parents came to this county', and, being a young man full of vigor, he commenced to clear up the farm, while his father, who was a physician and a student of the celebrated Dr. Rush, of Philadelphia, continued to practice his profession during his lifetime, having a very extensive practice. Mr. Banes was married, May 6, 1824, to Miss Polly Miller, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Miller, a sketch of whom will be found in this work. Mrs. Banes had born to her eleven children, viz., Robert M., Louisa (the wife af Justus Wilson), Joseph ( deceased), Reuben, John (deceased ). Gabriel W., Evan (deceased), Elizabeth (the wife of W. G. Waters, of Toledo, Ohio). Nelson (deceased). David (deceased) and Sarah (deceased). She was born in Fleming Co.. Ky., Feb. 23, 1800, and has been a member of the M. E. Church all her life, and is the only survivor of a class of seventy-five persons who organized the Moorefield M. E. Church at an early day. She is now past 81 years of age, and still resides upon the old homestead, and awaiting patiently the call to a better world, where she will meet her loved ones gone on before. Horatio Banes, during his vigor, brought his farm of 240 acres into good cultivation, which took many years of hard labor, and there he peacefully died Sept. 5, 1868, aged 77, full of honorable years, devoted to fulfilling ihe duties of an upright citizen, good neighbor, kind father, fond husband and trusted official. He was an officer of militia, and filled from the lowest rank up to that of. Major General. He held many township offices; was Justice of the Peace for a number of years, taking an active interest in the advancement and progress of education and all public improvements of his day, and possessed the entire confidence of his community. His parents came to Old Columbia, Ohio, in 1802, where they lived a few years ; thence moved to Warren Co., where his father, Evan Banes, was instrumental in laying out the town of Waynesville, and there they resided until their retuj > «u ij JaWI 1'uv.iQ i. w l - : fiip.

TIMOTHY L. BOSART, deceased. This gentleman was one of the staid and substantial pioneers of Clark County, and was born in Pendleton Co., Va., Sep/t 4, 1803. His parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Hunter) Bosart, came to Clark County in 1S11, settling on Sec. 21, Moorefield Township, where his mother died in 1817. and his father in 1841. Mr. Bosart grew to manheod in this county, and, Dec. 25, 1S32, he was married to Miss Matilda Moss, daughter of Jacob and Sarah Moss, natives of the ';Okl Dominion," and pioneers of Clark Co., Ohio, Mrs. Moss being yet living, and in her 90th year. To Timothy L. and Matilda Bosart were born seven children, five sons and two daaghters, two of the sons dying in childhood. ' Mrs. Bosart died Nov. 18, 1854, leaving behind those whom she had loved and cared for to mourn her loss. Mr. Bosart was always looked up to as one of the leading men of his township, and all who knew him trusted and respected him for his true manliness and rigid honesty in all things. In religious belief, a Universalist ; in politics, a Whig, which, on the breakingout of that foul blot on American liberty called -* Know-Nothingism," he forsook for the Democratic party. He held the positions of Township. Clerk, Treasurer and Trust'ee, and was Justice of the Peace for a number of terms, also acting as School Director some forty consecutive years. He died June 9, 1876, in his 73d year, leaving a name and character that his descendants can point to with just pride.

SAMUEL FI. BOWLUS, grain dealer and proprietor of Bowlusville. Born in Middletown Valley, Frederick Co., Md., July 26, 1S19; is a son of George and Ann Catharine (Lyles) Bowlus, natives of Frederick Co., Md., and who spent their lives in their native State, with the exception of about six months spent at Zanesville, Ohio, and at another tirue six months spent in Missouri, returning to their native State, where they resided till their death. She died Feb. 17, 1827.; he died Oct. 27. 1855, aged 65 years. They were parents of four children, Capt. Samuel H. the only one now surviving. Mr. Bowlus was married the second time to Miss Ann Benson, of Montgomery Co., Md., by whom he had four children, one only now living - George Andrew, now a resident of Iola, Kan, acting as real estate and railroad agent for the sale of lands, etc., holding a very prominent position, and through his extensive business has acquired a large amount of wealth. Mr. George Bowlus was in the farming and milling business during most of his life ; was a very prominent and active man having the esteem and confidence of his commuuity and the people of his county, holding many positions of public trust. Was Judge of the Orphan's Court for sis years, ami represented his county in the Legislature a greater portion of ther time from 1828 to 1844. [Iis eldest son, by his first wife, John W., now' deceased, became a well known physician, in Millerville, Marion Co., Ind., where he had practiced his profession for thirty years at the time of his death. The eldest son by his second wife, Thomas H., also deceased, took the profession of the law, and. became one of the most promineut lawyers of Indianapolis, and an intimate friend of Gov. Hendricks. IT is practice, which was extensive, was continued till his death, a period of twenty years. Our subject was raised and grew to maturity in his native State; was only eight years of age at the death of his mother, but under the watchful care of his kind and intelligent father, grew to manhood, receiving a good common-school education, with a good knowledge of surveying. Was married Feb. 13. '1340, to Miss Lucinda, daughter of Christopher and Ann Catharine (Stembel) Michael, natives of Frederick Co., Md. By this union they had twelve children ; ton now survive - George C., Samuel W., Charles F., Mary Ann Catharine, Maria Anneta now Mrs. Schindler, of Toledo, Ohio), Millard Mc- Canlay, Warren L., John L., Henry C. and Clement L. In March, 1853, Capt. Bowlus and family emigrated to Ohio and located about three-quarters of a mile from his present place of residence. In 1856, he purchased the tract of land upon which the village of Bowlusville now stands. The location beiug about equally distant from Springfield and Urbana, the two railroads, C., S. & C. and N. Y., P. & 0., pass through the village. In 1853, a regular station was established here for the convenience of the neighborhood. Capt. Bowlus, after the purchase of this land, erected a good dwelling with a storeroom attached, in which has since been kept a general stock of merchandise to suit the wants of the people ; has erected a large warehouse for the storing of grain, and in which he has carried on quite au extensive trade; also erected a saw-mill, and saws and deals quite extensively in lumber. A post office was established here about 1855, but after a few years was abandoned; but in about 1862 was again re-established, taking the name of Bowlusville from its proprietor, Capt. Bowlus, under which grant it has since continued. Since and during the establishing of these several branches of industry, Capt. Bowlus has erected quite a number of houses upon lots of the village, which were needed for residences for the families of men employed in the various business interests of the village. Capt. Bowlus has dealt largely in real estate ; is the active spirit of this community, and has done much for the benefit of this neighborhood, and has the general confidence and esteem ot its citizens. In this brief sketch we have portrayed a family whose lives and characters in their business and professions stand very prominent, and of wdiose record their descendants may justly feel proud.

EPHRAIM Z. BRUBAKER, farmer; P. 0. Springfield. Born Sept. 11, 1848, upon the farm where he now lives, and has resided all his life. Is a son of Benjamin K. and Mrry . Zimmcrmann) Brubaker, natives of Pennsylvania, he being born in Lancaster Co., May 15, 1824. and she in Dauphin Co. Sept. 29, 1826. They became residents of Clark Co. in 1848. where they resided till their death. He died Oct. 21, 1857: They were parents of three children - Ephraim Z., Benjamin F. aud

John H. deceas 'd.) Mrs. Brubaker married her second husband, Mr. T. L. Bosart, in November, 1863, by whom she had one child - John Harley. She died Oct. 3, 1873. Mr. Brubaker's life was a brief one. beinir only in the 34th year of his age; but during liis short life he was very successful as a fanner ; was industrious and energetic, and acquired a good property. He was a member of the United Brethren Church, and died in the triumph of a living faith. Our subject, 9 years of age, at the death of his father, remained with his mother on the home place till his majority. * On March 29, 3 874, he married Miss Alvina, a daughter of John P. and Mary Bexroth, natives of Pennsylvania, but became residents of Clark Co., Ohio, in the spring of 1864. Mr. Brubaker has always remained upon the home farm. It consists of 101 acres of good land with good improvements, a fine brick house and all the conveniences, constituting a fine home and residence, situated about two miles north of Springfield. Mr. Brubaker and wife, by their marriage, have four children - Laura E., John H., Rosa May and Alice Irene.

JAMES CLARK, capitalist, New Mooreficld. A descendant of two old pioneer families of Clark Co.; was born in this county Nov. 21, 1838, a son of John D. and Susannah (Foley) Clark, he a native of Virginia, and she of Ohio, and a grandson of James Clark, also born in Virginia, but who became an early settler of Clark Co., and afterward of Champaign Co., where he resided until death. The maternal grandfather, James Foley, also a native of Virginia, became one of the early pioneers of Clark Co., locating here about 1803 or 1805, while the Iudians were still the principal occupants of the then almost uuhrokeu forest, when there was but one store in Springfield, and four or five houses constituted the town. In this county he spent the remainder of his life. Although possessed of only a limited education, from the meager advantages of schools in those days, yet he possessed great natural talent, and was a very active and powerful man. both physically and intellectually. He became thoroughly known and held the respect and confidence of the people; was chosen a representative to the State Legislature two terms, and served his constituents faithfully. We may safely believe that had he in his- earl}' life possessed the advantages of our present generation, he would have arisen to distinction. John D. Clark came to this county with his pareuts when but a child ; was raised to farm labor, grew to manhood, was married and located upon the farm where he still lives and has resided during his entire business life. He has been a man of great activity, and has not confined himself to the mere routine of farm labor, but his mind carried him into a more active field, that of an extensive stock dealer. For thirty years he did a large trade, buying through this country and the west as far as Illinois, driving large droves of cattle to Philadelphia and the Eastern markets, often throwing into market from two to three thousand head of cattle in a single year ; has also dealt extensively in wool and pork, in all of which he w'as generally successful, as known by the fact that, in IS VO, when he retired from business, he was worth over 8200,000, which was mostly made by his owu labor, skill and good management, which is perhaps a record of success surpassed by but very few in that day, or even since. In 1872, he had a stroke of paralysis, from which he has never fully recovered, although, physically, he still enjoys good health for one of his advanced age. His wife died May 8, 1870. Of an issue of four children, there were three daughters and one son - Mary C. (now Mrs. Pratt), Martha J. (now Mrs. R. A. Calvert, of Portsmouth, Ohio, whose husband now is Judge of the Court of that county), James, and Anna E. (now Mrs. W. 51. Yeazeil, of Springfield). Our subject, being an only son, has always remained with his father and assisted him in his business, and grew up with the advantages and observations of his father's plans and successes in business, and as his father advanced in years James gradually took the care aod charge of his business affairs, till 1870, when his father retired from active life, since which he has taken the entire control and management. Mr. Clark is engaged in raising and dealing in a moderate yet profitable degree in trotting horses : has raised some of the finest horses in Clark Co.; has raised and trained horses which he has sold at prices as high as 820,000, and is justly recognized as one of the leading men in this line of business in this portion of Ohio. The Clark farm consists of 657 acres of . most excellent land in a high state of cultivation, with fine and substantial buildings, with every arrangement for convenience and comfort, and is one of the best grain and stock-farms in Clark Co. Mr. Clark is well known not only in his county, but his reputation extends far and wide throughout the country among all the prominent men who are interested devotees in fine horses ; has been an active member of the Clark County Board of Agriculture for six years ; has held various township offices, and is now Township Treasurer, which office he has held for eight years. He was married, Jan. 20, 1870, to Miss Emma S., only child of Charles and Mary (Taylor) Morgan, he a native of England and she of Ohio, but of English descent. Two children have been the fruits of this union, one of whom is living - Emerson Eugene Clark. Mr. Clark is one of the most pleasant and affable gentlemen it has been our good fortune to have met with in the county. He is an educated, well-read man, who keeps apace with the progress and development of the age; a man imbued with a proper spirit of liberality, taking an active interest iu everything tending to the general .welfare of his native county, of which he is a worthy and highly respected citizen.

J. W. CRABILL, farmer P. O. Springfield. In the early settlement of Modrefield Township, we fiud the name of David Crabill as one among the earliest pioneers As near as can now be ascertained, he and his family came from Virginia and located here about 1803 ; he came a poor man, never having received but three months' schooling in his life. He first located with two brothers by the name of Voss, in Champaign Co.; thence came to this township: for these men he worked some time; thence he entered 80 acres of the northeast quarter of Sec. 13, where he commenced to work for himself, in true pioneer style, building a little log cabin with puncheon floor, etc., but he was industrious and had the true spirit coupled with energy, which knew no discouragements, and he labored on, openiag out and clearing up his land, making improvements, and adding more land by purchase ; was getting along prosperously in life when, unfortunately, he signed some paper as security, and in the course of time had it to - pay. and although at the time his entire property would not half pay the creditors, yet by the assistance of friends, and an indomitable energy, he paid every dollar of about $15,000 ; this was a heavy blow for a poor pioneer, and probably but very few would have gone through it. xYfter this experience, lie was better fitted than ever to battle with the struggles of life; he labored on. increasing in his possessions, till at his death he owned over 1,100 acres of land, and worth at least $60,000. This example of prosperity shows the sterling worth and character of Mr. Crabill; a man who never failed to meet every obligation, and had the respect aud confidence of all who knew him. He -died May 5, 1839, aged only 59 years, yet had dune a great work, battled manfully with the obstacles of life, overcame all and became quite wealthy. His wife died Oct. 19. 1863; of an issue of twelve children, seven now survive - Maria, now Mrs. Yeazell, of Illinois; Thos. V., J as. Yv .; Mary, now Mrs. Crown, of Springfield; Pearson A.; Eliza, now Mrs. Jones, and William. The old homestead farm is still in possession of, and carried on by, the three brothers Jas. W., Pearson S. and William. They partake of their father's habits of industry, and are prosperous farmers of the township.

JOHN B. CROFT, farmer: P. O. Springfield; horn on the farm where he now resides, May 19, 13-12; is a sou of John and Margaret (Lefiel) Croft, natives of Virginia, but came to Ohio with their parents about 1804. he being then about 8 years -of age; was raised in Bethel Township, and followed the milling and distilling business. Was married there and followed his trade about eleven years ; thence bought the place where he now resides; there earned on his former business, milling and distilling, until the war of the rebellion, when he closed up the latter business, but continued the nulling till about five years ago. when, from his advanced age, he retired from active business. Mr. Croft was one of the early pioneers, and experienced a full share of the hardships, and up. and downs of pioneer life. Industrious and prompt in all his business relations, and ever maintaining an undoubted integrity of character. Of seven daughters and three sons, six now survive - David, Catharine, John B.. Jane, Paulina and Laura B. Our subject always remained with his father. Was married, April 27, 1880, to Miss Sarah, daughter of Aaron Rockafield, a native of Virginia. During the war -of the rebellion, on Aug. 16, 1862. Mr. Croft enlisted in the 17th Ohio Battery, and served through the war in the Army of the Mississippi. Was in the conflicts of Vicksburg and Port Gibson, and most of the conflicts of the Mississippi Valley, having in all been in seventy-two days of active, hard fighting, but escaped without a wound, and at the close of the war received an honorable discharge and returned safely to home and friends. Mr. Croft is held in high esteem in his community, having the general confidence of the people. Has held the office of Township Trustee for the last three years. ^ ^

JOHN DUKE, farmer; P. O. Springfield ; horn iu Lancaster Co., Penn., Nov. 9, 1809; is a sou of John and Abigail (Kline) Duke, natives of Pennsylvania, who lived and died there. They were parents of twelve children : eight now survive - Betsy, Sarah, Benjamin. John, Adam. Mary, David and Margaret. Our subject was raised to farm labor till about 17 years of age. when lie left home to learn the shoemaker's trade; after learning which he returned home and lived with his father till of age. Was married, Jan. 10, 1836, to Jane Mary, daughter of William and Elizabeth Parkes, natives of Pennsylvania. They had eight children ; five now survive - Jane Mary, Eliza, James, William and Sarah Aud. Jane Mary was born June 26, 1810.

By their marriage they have had eight children; four now survive - -Win. K., Sarah E., Rebecca Ann and Adeline. After their marriage, they remained in Pennsylvania till the fall of 1853. when they removed to Ohio and bought and located upon the place where lie lives, and has since resided, a period of twenty-seven years. Mr. Puke has a good farm well improved, constituting a pleasant home and residence, and is now able to enjoy the comforts of life for the remainder of his days ; and this has been accomplished by his own labor and industry. Has always been a man of good health and great activity ; a man of positive character and determination, who carried out all his undertakings, and hence his financial success. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, to which she has belonged for nearly half a century, and he for one-third of a century ; and they have had the pleasure to see their four surviving children grow7 to maturity, and all become members of the church and doing well.

PETER FERREE, farmer; P. 0. Springfield; born in York Co., Penn., March 9, 1818; is a son of Peter and Catharine Ferree, natives of Pennsylvania, and who lived and died in their native State. They were parents of seven children ; five now survive - Andrew, Leah, Peter, Catharine and Mary. Our subject lived with his parents till the death of his father, which occnrred when he was only about 8 years of age, and from this time he was thrown upon the world among strangers, and found a home and work the best he could till about 19 years of age, when he and an older brother came wo>t to Ohio, locating first in Stark County, where he remained about two years. Thence, in the spring of 1839, he came into Clark County, where he has since resided. Was married Pec. 24, 1840, to Elizabeth, daughter of Adam Baker, whose history appears in sketch of his son Adam, of German Township, in this work. By this union they have had four children ; three nowT survive - Adam W., Mary C. and Anna. Mr. Ferree started in life a poor boy, and by his own industry, economy and good management has become independent. Is owner of 250 acres of land on Mad River Valley; of excellent quality, under good cultivation, with fine buildings and improvements ; also owns 320 acres of land in Illinois and Missouri. Mr. Ferree s credit is undoubted. He owes no man : works on the cash system, consequently has the confidence and friendship of all who know him ; and as an example of success, upright dealing and prominence in his community is worthy of imitation by the young in all generations.

JOHN FISHER, farmer; P. 0. Springfield; born in Maryland, Aug. 18, 1801 ; is a son of Philip and Margaret Fisher, also natives of Maryland, who lived and died in their native State. They were parents of six children ; three now survive - John, Philip and Henry. Our subject removed from his native State to Ohio in September 1852, locating in Clark County, residing iu Springfield about six months ; he then bought and located upon the farm where he now lives, in spring of 1853, where he has since resided, a period of twenty-seven years. He was married March 2(5; 1826. to Mary Ann Alexander, a native of Maryland, by whom he has had twelve children ; ten now survive - John Lewis. Jacob H., Alexander, Elizabeth, Paniel M.. Frances Ann, Martha, Joshua F.. Thomas Jefferson and James William. Mr. Fisher, in his early life, followed his trade as a stone and brick mason. This he followed up to a few years prior to his coming to Ohio, when he gave up his trade and devoted his attention :o farming. Mr. Fisher has 100 acres of excellent land, with good buildings and improvements, and is pleasantly situated, having a good home and residence. This farm and property Mr. Fisher has made and accumulated hy his own industry and hard labor, making his first start by his daily labor at his trade, laying by dollar by dollar till he was able to buy his farm, and now he is well and comfortably fixed to pass the balance of his life in the enjoyment of the fruits of his labors. Mr. Fisher and wife are members of the Reformed Church, having been such for the remarkable period of fifty-four years. And they . have had the pleasure to see the most of their children become members: of some branch of the Christian Church.

JAMES FOLLY (deceased). Since the first settlement of Clark Co., there were, perhaps, none of its pioneers more widely known throughout its length and breadth than James Foley, who was born in Virginia Oct. 4, 1779, and was the sou of

William Foley, of that State, who was married twice and was the father of eighteen children, eleven of whom came to this county, viz., Lettie, Marian, William, John, James, Rose, Thomas. Absalom, Stephen, Catharine and Fanny, all being now dead. In 1803, James Foley came uu horseback from his native State, being possessed of very little money, but determined to make a home in a country where slavery was unknown, and where u poor man would have every advantage that liberty and equality guarantees. He finally, in 1805, settled in Moorefield Township, upon land that he had previously selected. He was married, at Darby Plains, Ohio, about 1808, to Mary Marsh, daughter of Joseph and Susannah Marsh, natives of Virginia, where Mrs. Foley was born Sept. 4. 1784, and of which union were born five children, as follows: Griffith, Catharine, Susan, John and James, Catharine, the widow of Charles Ward, being now the only survivor. Mrs. Foley was a sincere member of the Presbyterian Church, and died April 17, 1855. Mr. Foley was one of the most successful men of Clark Co. Coming from a State where an education was difficult to obtain, he yet managed to pick up the common rudiments of reading, writing, etc., and this, added to his shrewd, natural abilities and his business experience through life, rendered his judgment safe, and therefore led to success. His views on slavery may be judged from the fact that, after settling her*: lie went back to Virginia and, with the consent of his brothers, brought four slaves which they owned to this country and gave them their freedom. Quite ail early emancipator was this rugged old pioneer, who began the work of emancipation before Lincoln was born, having inherited that love of fi eedom from his Irish forefathers, which is such a marked characteristic of that race. Mr. Foley was a Captain in the war of 1812, and was among those who went to the relief of Hull at Detroit, and his grandson, James Foley, the present Sheriff of Clark Co., has now the sword which he carried in that war against English tyranny. Politically, he was a Whig, and afterward a .Republican. Was one of the first Commissioners of Clark Co., serving several years, and was a member of the Ohio Legislature two terms, and also a member of the Masonic fraternity. At the time of his death, which occurred Oct. 5, 1SG3, aged 84, he was the owner of 2,800 acres of land in the county, 100 close to Columbus, beside a large amount of money in bank and on interest, all of which was the result of his own efforts as an industrious, economical aud honest man. He was a man of robust constitution, invincible courage and determination, affable in his manners, fond of a joke, even in his old age, whose companionship was pleasant, retaining his spirits to the last, and exhibiting that same vigorous, unyielding will and force of character which were his stepping-stones to prosperity.

MICHAEL GRUME (deceased); born in Lancaster, Penn., Dec. 9, 1820; was a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Book waiter) Grube, also natives of Pennsylvania. Of five children three now survive - Anna, Elizabeth and Simon; deceased, Michael and Mary. Jacob and wife became residents of Clark Co. about 183S, where they lived till their death. He died Aug. 9, 1841, aged nearly 49 years. His wife died May fi, 1870. Mr. Grube was somewhat of a military man in those days, being Captain of a Light Horse Company, in their musters and drills. Michael, our subject, was about 18 years of age when his father and family came and settled in this county. Here he passed the balance of his life engaged in agricultural pursuits. Was married to Maria Anthony, who was born Dec. 5, 1823, a native of Pennsylvania. Issue, ten children, six now survive - Susanna, John D., Jacob, Henry, Levi and Joann. Deceased, four - Sarah Elizabeth, Lydia, Amanda and Simon. Mr. Grube died April 26, 1876, in the 56th year of his age. lie was an energetic, industrious man, and acquired a good home and property. Never would accept or hold any public office, but pursued the even tenor of his agricultural pursuits. Was a man of undoubted integrity, a kind neighbor and an honored citizen. His widow and son, John D., remain upon the home place, where they have a fine farm and a good residence.

ALBERT D. GRIM XER, farmer ; P. O. Springfield; born in Lancaster Co., Penn., May 10, 1S53; is a son of Henry II and Susan (Stoner) Griener, natives of Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio, locating upon the farm where Albert now lives in the spring of 1857 ; here they resided till their death. She died in October, 1872; he

Hied June 4, 1876. They were parents of four children; two now survive - Albert D. and Estella I. Mr. Greiner, while young, learned the plasterer's trade, which business he followed several years ; then gave his attention to farming, which occupation he followed the remainder of his fife. He was a very industrious, hard-working man, and gave his attention strictly to his business ; whose integrity of character was undoubted, and who held the respect and confidence of the community in which he lived. Financially, he was quite successful, having acquired a good competency, and was well situated to enjoy the comforts of life when the messenger of death called him hence. Our subject, who was about 4 years of age when his parents came to Clark Co., was raised and grew to manhood here, and remained with his father principally till his death; since his death he has continued upon the home place, and will probably continue to make this his home and residence. He was married, Feb. 20, 1877, to Josie, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Hedges, he a native of Champaign Co. and she of Clark Co. Mr. Greiner is very pleasantly situated, and is, like his father, very industrious, attending closely to his own business, and we have no doubt will, like his father, make life a success

ROBERT L. HOLMAN, farmer ; P. 0. Springfield. Born in Worcester Co., Mass., April 7, 1828. Is a son of Parley and Nancy (Young) Holman, natives of Massachusetts, and whose lives were spent in their native State. He died in the winter of 1849. She died in March, 1845. They were parents of eleven children, four now living - Caroline, now Mrs. Mellon, of Springfield ; Robert L., Leonard and Ester, now Mrs. Phelps, of Springfield. Our subject, at 9 years of age, left his home to work his own way through life; working here and there among strangers wherever he could find work and a home, till about 17 years of age, when he went to learn the carpenter trade. Being naturally possessed of mechanical genius, he became a very successful mechanic, and became quite an efficient millwright and pattern-maker. This business proved quite lucrative, and his skill as a workman procured him plenty of business. He was married, May 3, 1853, to Martha M., daughter of Sylvester and Mary Hildreth, natives of Massachusetts. By this union they have four children - Arthur D., Walter H., Herbert W. and Edward P. In the fall of 1854, Mr. Holman removed from Massachusetts to Ohio, locating in Springfield, where he engaged in mechanical business, which he followed during his residence there of twenty years, with the exception of four years, during which he was in the mercantile trade. He was the inventor of the Buckeye Hominy Mill, which is so well known and acknowledged to be the best in use; from which inventi >n he received quite a remuneration, and which has since been sold to a Baltimore firm for $200,000. In March, 1875, Mr. Holman, for the interests of his boys who were then arriving at the age of manhood, bought and located upon the farm where he now lives and has since resided. This farm he purchased from the heirs of James Hawk, which consists of 173? acres of excellent land on Sec. 34, in Moorefield Township. It has good buildings and improvements, and constitutes a fine home and farmer's residence. Mr. Holman's success in life, starting out as he did, a poor wandering boy, has shown a line ability, which, coupled with industry and economy, has placed him in such favorable circumstances to enjoy for the rest of his days the comforts of life.

REUBEN HUFFMAN, farmer; P. O. New Moorefield. Among the earliest pioneers of Clark Co. was Jacob Huffman, who located four and one-hulf miles southwest of Springfield, in Bethel Township, in 1802. At this time it was mostly a wilderness from Cincinnati to Detroit. Mr. Huffman was truly a pioneer, opening out in the forests of Clark Co. with but three neighbors, and comparatively few settlers fur many miles in every direction. Hero he cleared up and opened out his farm, and spent his entire life, residing here on the same farm some forty years. He died Dec. 1, 1842, in his 7 1st year. His wife, Catharine Huffman, died Aug. 31, 1866, in her 80th year. Of a family of ten children who grew to maturity, five are now living - Henry, Reuben, Martha, Rachel and Samuel. Our subject, the sixth child, was horn upon his father's home place, May 6, 1818. . He lived and grew to manhood inured to the hardships of those early days, and remained with his father till his death. He was married, Oct.

2.8. 1841, to Ann E. (born in Pennsylvania, March 8, 1822), daughter of David and Elizabeth (Barr). Tennant, natives of Pennsylvania, coming to Clark Co. when Ann was 10 years of age. Of an issue of eleven children, eight now survive - George W., Wm. T. Oscar L.. John W.. Mary C. and Sallie E. (twins), Reuben and Nettie B. Mr. Huffman remained upon the home farm till the spring of 1809; thence lived six years near Tremont City; two years near Enon, and in the spring of 1S77 moved upon the place where he now resides. Mr, Huffman has made fanning his business through life, and as such has the name of being one of the best fanners in the community, and mav well be termed a model farmer; has always been an industrious and energetic man, one whose character and integrity was never doubted. He has not accepted or desired any office ; has strictly attended to his own business affairs ; has always lived well and comfortably, and endeavored to enjoy the fruits of his labors, and has possessed the confidence and respect of all his neighbors.

ALONZO HUNTER, farmer ; P. 0. New Moorefield. Is a native of Moorefield Township, born April 20, 1852: is a son of Lewis and Margaret (Seibert) Hunter. natives of Virginia, becoming residents of Ohio, locating in this township about 1822, where he has since resided, a period of fifty-eight years. Has given his undivided attention to farming, in which business he has made a success, and is one among the best farmers of the township. Has never held or sought office. Has been located upon bis present farm about eight years. Has made and accumulated all his property since he came to the county, by his own labor and industry. He is now 7 9 years of age, and enjoys very good health. Of a family of nine children, five now survive - Samuel, George, Eliza Ann, Alonzo and Bell. Our subject remained with his father until his majority. He was married, Nov. 2, 1876, to Martha Ann, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Seitz) Beard, natives of Pennsylvania; issue, two children - Marietta and Frank Pearl, Mr. Hunter has always followed farming, and principally in Moorefield Township. Has been on the place where he now resides one year.

JAMES HUMPHREY (deceased); born in Virginia Sept. 12, 1891. Was a son of John Humphrey, a native of Ireland, Tyrone Co., born March 6, 1764; he emigrated to America in August, 1780, landing at Philadelphia, and, in October of the same year, he settled in Greenbrier Co., Va. On the 25th of November, 1790, was married to Miss Jane Ward (whose father was killed in an engagement with the Indians at Point Pleasant, Va. In 1793, he removed from Virginia to Mason Co., Ky.; where he remained till April, 1799, when he removed to Ohio and settled on Mad River, about two and a half miles north of Springfield, on the same section of land on which he breathed out his spirit into the hands of God who gave it, his death occurring March 19, 1857, being 93 years of age, and had been a citizen of Clark Co. 53 years. He was, consequently, one of the pioneers, and truly an invader of the forests of Clark Co. ; was a valued and highly esteemed citizen, who contributed much by bis virtues as such to edify the social and civil interests of the community of which he was a member. But what was better still, he was an earnest, consistent Christian, one about whose memory a sacred unction will abide. He first professed religion in Ireland, as a member of the Presbyterian Church, in the year 1787, and in that church lived and died, having sustained the life of a professor for seventy years. Was one of the two elected to the office of Elder at the organization of the Presbyterian Church at Springfield July 17, 1819, and duly ordained to that office Aug. 19 of the same year. This office he continued to exercise until superannuation disabled him to perform its more active functions. Though very aged, he was free from u grief and labor/' peculiarly cheerful and happy, possessing an unusual amount of vigor and vivacity which he retained till death laid his cold iron hand upon him. He was the father of fourteen children, eleven of whom grew to maturity and became heads of families. He left as survivors six sons and two daughters, fifty-five grand' children and thirty-seven great grandchildren ; in all, oue hundred descendants. Col. James Humphreys was oniy 2 years of age wheu his parents removed to Iveutueky, and about 8 years of age when they became settlers of Clark Co., Ohio, and here he grew to manhood under the sturdy influences of pioneer life. Was married, April 15, 1824, to Catharine, daughter of George and Margaret Keifer, natives of Maryland, who became residents of this county in 1812. Catharine was born March 2, 1804; issue, ten children; six now survive - John A., George II., Charles II., Amanda, Mary and Emma C. Col. Humphreys died June 20, 1858, in the 67th year of his age. He was a man who commanded the high regard of the community of which lie had been a member so long, and in which he was so well known ; and here his memory will be cherished, as an integral part of the history of this community, among whom his remains now lie ruddering to dust. He became a member of the Presbyterian Church of Springfield io 1830, and honored that profession by a consistent deportment and diligent attendance upon the various means of grace. He attended public worship on the Sabbath preceding that on which he died, and enjoyed the communion service, which was peculiarly pleasant to him, or he would not have endured the suffering he did in his critical state of health to attend this means of grace. He died of cancer in the stomach; and though his family mourn his loss, they grieve not as those without hope, as what was their loss

LEONARD KARG, farmer; 1'. 0. Bowlusville ; born in Germany Oct. 29, 182G. Emigrated with his parents, Leonard and Elizabeth Karg, to America in 1830 or 1831. landing at Baltimore, thence to l7 ork, Penn., where they resided till the fall of 1855, when they removed to Clark Co., Ohio, and purchased and located upon the farm where our subject still lives. Here the father lived till his death, which occurred Sept. 14, 1868. His wife died in April, 1881, in her 89th year. They were parents of four children, two now survive - Maria (now Mrs. Holstein) and Leonard. Our subject lived with his father until his death. Was married, May 20, 1852, to Elizabeth, daughter of Philip and Mary Benedict, natives of Pennsylvania, and who lived and died in their native State. By this marriage they have had thirteen children ; ten now survive - Maria, Leah Jane, Sarah, Samuel, John Henry, Fllanora, Ulysses Grant, Leonard, Mary Elizabeth and Erastus Clyde. Mr. Karg commenced in life a poor boy. When young he learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed about nine years ; then be gave his attention to farming, which business he has since followed. During the war of the rebellion, he enlisted in the 100-days service in the 134th O. V. I., and served out his time and was honorably discharged. He has been a very hard working, industrious man, and, with economy and good management, has become very comfortably and pleasantly situated ; is owner of 195 acres of excellent land; has erected a fine brick house, and has a good barn and other buildings and conveniences, constituting a beautiful home and farmer's residence, and is a good ixarnple of what industry, economy and close attention to business will accomplish.

G. F. KENNEDY, physician and farmer; P. O. New 3Ioorefield ; born iu Baltimore, Md., Sept. 11, 1827. Is son of Thomas and Ellen F. (Barker) Kennedy, natives of Baltimore, Md. Thomas Kennedy, the grandfather, was a sea Captain and followed the seas all his life, and by the wrecking of bis vessel he lost his life. Thomas, the father, also followed the seas as Captain of a vessel for twenty-six years ; then he emigrated to Ohio, locating in Clark Co., upon the farm where his sons now reside, in 1835. Here he lived until his death, which occurred Nov. 23, 1868, aged 76 years. His wife died Aug. 10, 1S56. Of an issue of seven children, four now survive - George F., Thomas, Julia Ann and Emma. Mr. Kennedy in early life, while following the seas, partook in character, to a great extent, the general roughness of seafaring men; but after his locating on his farm, he joined the M. E. Church Jan. 3, 1842. aud from this time to the close of his life was a very active and zealous worker iu tin: cause of Christianity, and was a class-leader in the church during the last year of his life. Our subject was brought up to farm labor, and followed that occupation until 184.*, when he- attended the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, two and oue-half years; then commenced reading medicine under Dr. Rodgers, in Springfield. In the fall of 1S49. he attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, also in the winter of 1851, graduating at the close of the latter term. Then he located upon the old home farm, where he continued the practice of his profession nearly thirty years; and in connection with his practice has, since his father's death, superintended die farm, which consists of 103 acres of fine land, mostly in cultivation. Dr. Kennedy has been an active member of the M. E. Church since 1843, having been a steward in the church twelve years. On Sept. 14, 1851, he was married to Miss Emma, daughter of Howland and Lydia Swain, natives of Nantucket, and a niece of Judge. Swain, of Dayton, Ohio. Issue, nine children; eight now survive - Walter W., Sarah WV, Franklin, Emma, Thomas, Edward, Charles and James J.

THOMAS W. LESHER, farmer; P. 0. Springfield; born in Bedford Co., Penn., June 25, 1840; is a son of William and Hadasah (Carroll) Lesher, natives of Pennsylvania, and remained residents of their native State till the death of his wife, which occurred Sept. 30, 1849. They were parents of seven children, four now survive - -Mary E., Thos. W.. John B. and Emma M. Mr. Lesher married for his second wife Miss Margaret Martin, a native of Maryland, and a sister to Mr. Robert Martin, late of Springfield, Ohio. Mr. Lesher now resides in Franklin Co., Penn.; has always been a man of sterling character, and held in high esteem by all who know him. A true Union man and a lover of his country and its laws. During the war of the rebellion, being on the borders of Pennsylvania, he suffered considerable by loss of property, and gave two sons for the service in the defense of his country. William Lesher, the grandfather of our subject, was a wagon-master in the army in the war of the Revolution ; was with Gen. Washington's troops at Valley Forge; served about two years. TL: g: wl Hither, William Carroll, was a soldier in the war of 1812. The ancestors of our subject appears to have quite a military record ; and the same blood seems to course through the veins and the same patriotic principles to possess the minds of their descendants. Our subject and his brother John B. were both engaged in the late war of the rebellion in defense of Union and liberty. John B. first enlisted iu the 126th Penn. V. I.; was captured in the battle of Fredericksburg, Va. ; was in Libby Prison about eighteen days ; was paroled, and again enlisted in the Signal Corps fur three years or during the war. Thomas enlisted in the 21st Penn. Cavalry, Co. II, enlisting for two years or during the war. He served till the close of the war. Was mustered out and received an honorable discharge. At the time of Mr. Lesher's. enlistment he was tendered by Gov. Curtin a commission as Captain, but refused it, and would accept no office, declaring he enlisted from pure patriotism, and if his country needed his services as a private, he was ready to go, and in no other sphere would he go, quite in contrast to the general principle of office-seekers. Mr. Lesher became a resident of Clark Co., Ohio, October, 1877. Was married Oct. 30, 1877, to Emma E. Humphreys, .whose ancestors' history appears in full in the ketch of James Humphreys (deceased), in this work. Mr. Lesher is a man highly esteemed for. his integrity of character, and one who has been offered various offices, all of which he has universally refused, having no aspirations for notoriety of that kind, but preferring a quiet, private citizen's life, and as such, is a model which may with profit be copied after by many less worthy aspirants for office.

JOHN MARSH (deceased) ; born in the State of Virginia Nov. 2, 1794 ; became a resident of Clark Co. about 1818, being one among the pioneers of the county, locating here at the same time as others of those honored fathers who endured so many hardships, and laid the foundations and performed the primary work for this prosperous and growing county. Mr. Marsh was married, Feb. 28, 1833, to Maria, daugh'er of Benjamin and Elizabeth Dye, who were among the first settlers of Miami Co., locating there about the same time of the Knoops, in 1798. Maria was born April 7, 1812. By this uuion they had three children - Nathan, Mary Jane and John D. Mr. Marsh died June 4, 1S37, aged about 43 years. He was a remarkably industrious, energetic and successful business man, commencing in life with no capital, earning his first few dollars by his daily labor, grubbing aud clearing up land in this, then almost unbroken wilderness ; he was industrious and economical, and day by day and year after year he increased his capital, bought a farm, and from time to time added more land by purchase. became an extensive stock-dealer, and although he lived to only middle age. yet he became owner of 80U acres of land, and left his widow and family with a good competency. She remained upon the home place, with her children, who were then quite small; and though a great charge and care devolved upon her, yet she was competent for the occasion, and her affairs were carefully managed and her children grew to maturity. Mrs. Marsh married for her second husband James Jones, who was born March 28, 1800, a native of Pennsylvania, their marriage being celebrated the 31st day of January, 1839. By this union they had six children, five now survive - Malinda, Benjamin (deceased), Werdeu, Thomas, Elizabeth and Walter. After their marriage, Mr. J ones took charge of the farm of his wife, where he remained till his death, which occurred Nov. 6, 1852. Mrs. Jones still remains upon the home place, where she has now resided nearly forty-eight years; and since Mr. Jones' death has. with the heip of her sous, carried on the farm. In this brief sketch we have a history of some of the pioneers whose lives and labors may be read wi h great interest and profit by their children's children, long after the present generation has passed away.