Clark County, Ohio - The whole text, 1881 (part 7 of 20)

The Soldiers Of 1 86 1-05

Madison Township soldiers have a record of which her people may well lie proud. From that memorable day in April, 1861, when hostile traitor hands struck tlio old flag, and hostile batteries converged their murderous fires on Sumter, until the day of proud and lasting victory at Appomattox, the sons of Madison Township, with their lives and all they held dear, were at the service of the country and on the side of the Union. At the beginning of the war, their response was prompt, cheerful, practical. As months and years lengthened, the decimated ranks were filled by fresh and willing troops; and when the end came, there was scarcely a family in Madison Township that had not laid on the country's altar some costly sacrifice. From first to last, the township furnished 200 men. The greater number of these served in the One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Forty- fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, One Hundred and Forty-sixth Ohio National Guards, Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Thirty -first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, Sixteenth Ohio Artillery, Seventeenth Ohio Artillery. While the men of the township contested the question of secession in the field, there was also an army of noble women at home, who bore no trifling part in the great contest. They never tired in their efforts to supply to the soldiers at the front many tokens of remembrance; the sick were supplied with innumerable delicacies, and the God of battles was continually appealed to that the right might triumph, and that the country might again emerge from the great contest purified by disaster and worthy of its great founder - Washington.

South Charleston Methodist Episcopal Church. - "The kingdom of God cometh not. with observation " is iust as true in the origin of religious societies in mod ern times as it was in the days of Christ, who was interrogated as to when the kingdom of God should come.

The first settlers of the neigborhood were chiefly from Virginia, Kentucky, New York and Pennsylvania, who came to this county during the first fifteen years of the nineteenth century. Many of them had been converted and became Methodists in their former homes, and with them they brought the spirit of worship and the love of the church.

There being no places of public worship in the immediate vicinity, these people united to worship with a small society who met at the house of old Father Troxell, over the line in Madison County, live miles southeast of where South Charleston now is. Among these early settlers was Isaac Davisson, who, with his young wife and two children, settled in his new home, one mile east of South Charleston, in the spring of 1811. Their house was a log cabin of one room, and 'one story high, with puncheon floor and a door made of clapboards. The chimney was made of split sticks laid up in a mortar made of clay. The jambs and hearth were made of dried mortar; the house was lighted by a small opening through the wall, covered with oiled paper. This was the place where Methodism was to be cradled, and from which were to go forth influences to establish the church on a firm and lasting foundation. About the year 1814, two local preachers - AYilliam Irwin and Jonathan Minchell - were invited to preach here, and, accepting, they preached once in four weeks. The women would sit on the side of the bed, while the men found position on a flat rail supported by a chair at each end. The work grew. Prayer meetings were occasionally held at the houses of Jesse Ellsworth, J. Botkin and James Woosley, and thus for several years the seed was being sown, which, under God, was to produce a grand result. About 1817 or ISIS, Mr. Davisson built a house of hewed logy, of more ample dimensions than the first, and this house for several years following was the home of the church. In 1821 or 1822, South Charleston was placed on the plan of Paint Creek Circuit, and became a regular preaching- place for the itinerant ministry. Rev. Moses Trader is said to have been the first preacher in the place, and to have organized the first class in South Charleston. The 'folio wjjH.f-na.tned persons were members of the class:

Isaac Davisson (Leader). Sarah Davisson. Nancy Rowan, J. Ellsworth, wife and family, J. Botkin and wife, Eli Adams, the Creamer family, Mrs. Woosley, J. Mitton and family, P. Hedrick and wife, John and Elizabeth McCollum, Seth Saint John and wife, Nancy Pool and others. Preaching was continued at Mr. Davisson's house for ten years; the quarterly meetings were held here, the sacraments administered and enjoyed, and, besides this, more than one revival of religion occurred here, and results of lasting good followed.

In 1828, a frame church was erected near the site of the present one. It was 30x10 feet in size. In 1832, an addition of twenty feet was made, making the house 30x60; the pulpit was on the north side and the door on the south side, a stove in each end and a large drum in the. middle, before the pulpit. Wonderful work was done in this uncouth temple in the saving of souls and the. outpouring of the spirit. In 1834, a class called the " town class " was formed. It comprised the following-named members: Griffith Sweet (Leader) and wife, J. Asbury Houston (Leader) and wife, J. D. Truitt, Mary Truitt. Father Lott, wife and daughter, Elizabeth Bennett, Dr. R. Houston and wife, Mrs. Jane Houston, Joseph Houston, Mary Houston, Miss Jane Houston, Rev. Ed Williams and wife, Langlilin Kinney and wife, Elizabeth Janev and Ruth Janey. The first Sabbath school was organized in 1830, by Rev W. T. Snow; it met twice each Sabbath, and the preacher avowed that it should continue " as long as the sun, moon and stars should continue to shine."

In the years 1847 and 1848, the society erected the building now standing. It is of brick, large and commodious, with a lecture room and class room below, and a large audience room above. This building ought to be and is a monument to the faithful men and women of South Charleston who have been called from labor to reward. Of the numerous preachers who. in this expanse of Wears, have preached and labored with this people, let mention be made of Finley, Roberts, Gatch, John Collins, Russell Bigelow, W. H. Raper, Dr. Taylor, Frank Wilson, Dr. McCann and Jonathan E. Chaplin.

Many young men of the church have gone forth from here bearing the glad tidings to the world. Of these, let mention be made of James D. Webb. William I. Ellsworth, J. B. Ellsworth, Jesse Botkin, Charles B. Warrington and Jacob Pierce. Of the local ministers, Eli Adams, Abram Buckles, John Miskev and Richard Creamer had their training here and gave much fruitful labors to the church.

The society has had steady and permanent growth in years past, and now numbers nearly two hundred members. It maintains a vigorous Sabbath school. Rev. S. B. Smith, of the Cincinnati Conference, is its Pastor.

Wesley Chapel (Methodist Episcopal).- This extinct church was located nearly five miles east of Springfield, and was erected on a lot 120 feet square, donated by Absalom Foley, and deeded June 1, 1847. The building and nearly all who were wont to worship there have passed avray. The house was built of brick. Of those who contributed liberally to its erection, the names of William H. Harris. Absalom Foley, Henry Shugh. David Hayward, Griffin Moler and H. P. Harris are mentioned. The charge belonged to the Urbana District. Vienna Circuit. The house cost 81,400, and was dedicated by Rev. Grover. William H Harris served the society long and acceptably as Leader. Of the ministers who preached at Wesley Chapel, mention is made of "William I. Ellsworth, Bail, Swayne, Fields, Vance, Fleming, Mosgrove, Jackson, Dryden, Conrey, Keck, 8 token, Moler and others.

aSV. Chariot Borromco Catholic Church, South Charleston. - Tlio first Catholic settlement in this portion of Clark County was made in the fall of 1849, by the following-named persons, who came from Connecticut for the purpose of working on the Little Miami Railroad: Luke Hope, Bryan Conlan, William Dewit, Christopher Tuitte, James Quigley, Thomas Dolan, Jerry Murphy and Michael Lannon.

In the years 1850 and 1851, this colony received an addition as follows: Owen Riley, Daniel Hanifan. James Donahoe, Thomas Singleton, Thomas Cusack, Philip Smith, Michael Molan, Michael Can*, Daniel Sheehan, Patrick Booher. Patrick Quinn, Peter Mallon. Andrew Campion, Frank Tuitte, John Cusack Martin FaiTelh Owen Conroy. Martin Sweeney, Thomas Kinsella and Patrick Conway - nearly all of whom have since died or moved away, only eight of them, as far as can be ascertained, being still among the living.

In the next five years, the influx of Catholics was considerable, and it would now be almost impossible to give the names of all who came in those years. Suffice it to say that they came to stay, and many, if not most of them, are living, and those that are dead have descendants living in this vicinity.

in lo-oO. l ather Howard celebrated mass in the hotel which occupied the site of the present public school, this being the first service of the Catholic Church held in South Charleston.

In 1851, Father Thomas Blake, of Xenia, tool: charge of South Charleston Mission, saying his first mass at the house of Owen Riley; and from this time, services were held in different private houses, wherever most convenient.

About this period, the section house of the Little Miami Railroad was utilized for church purposes, and this was used until 1854, when Panllin's Hall served a similar purpose until early in 1866.

In he meantime, about 1858, Father Blake made arrangements to get the old Presbyterian Church, and held services there for about nine months, when the agreement was broken off and Paullin's Hall again became the Catholic place of worship.

In 1865, the lot upon which the present church stands was purchased from Dr. Houston for 8500, and ground was immediately broken for a new church.

In the fall of 1S65, the corner-stone was laid by the Rt. Rev. S. H. Rosecrans, then Coadjutor to the Archbishop, assisted by the clergy of Dayton, Springfield, Xenia and London. The building was finished early in 1866, and was dedicated by his Grace, J. B. Purcell, Archbishop of Cincinnati.

From 1866 up to the end of 1861. the Rev. John Conway, of London, attended to South Charleston, but early in 1868 the Rev. J. A. Maroney, of Springfield, took charge of this mission, and in 1872 became resident Pastor.

During his stay as Pastor, he completed the church, furnishing it with an altar, organ, pews and gallery; also bought house and lot, but, both being in his own name, were sold after he left South Charleston, which was in 1878, going to the Columbus Diocese, where he died in 1877, of consumption.

He was succeeded by the Rev. John J. Kennedy, who resided in London, and he was Pastor until November, 1878, when he was appointed to the Church of the Presentation, Walnut Hills, where he is yet.

October, 1871, when the Rev. William Grennan assumed the charge. He was a native of Ireland: spent many years in Buenos Ayres. South America, and in Mav, 1877, lie left this mission; remained a short time in Cincinnati, finally, in IS , vi, returning to South Charleston by way of Ireland, whither he went on a visit.

In June, 1877, the Rev. J. H. Rowekamp took charge of South Charleston Church, remaining until September, 1877, but, during his short stay, he built a new fence in front of pastoral residence.

He was bom in Cincinnati, educated at Mt. St. Wary's of that city, and ordained in May, 1873. His first appointment was Sidney, Ohio; his second, London; his third, Bradford Junction; his fourth, South Charleston; and his fifth, Six Mile, where he died in September, 1878.

The present Pastor, the Rev. C. M. Berding, was appointed to South Charleston in October, 1877; he was born in Heading, Hamilton Co., Ohio, February 5, 1853: began liis studies for the priesthood in the spring of 3 866, at Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, near Cincinnati, and was ordained December 18, 1875; was appointed Assistant Pastor of St. Raphael's, Springfield, where he remained twenty months, or until he became Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo's.

The church is 35x60, with a seating capacity of about three hundred and fifty, but tiie congregation numbers about five hundred and fifty souls, and is rapidly increasing; so the day is not far distant when a new church will be a necessity..

Since Father Berding came to South Charleston, he has paid off all debts which had accrued previous to his arrival; he has repaired the interior of the church, and remodeled the pastoral residence at a considerable outlay, and today the congregation is entirelv free from debt.

/South Charleston Presbyterian Church. - In the year 1822, this society had its original organization, Rev. William Dickey presiding. James Pringle, Sr., and David Wilson were elected Ruling Elders. At the same date, the following-named persons were received into the communion of the church, viz.: David Wilson, and Polly, his wife; James Rankin, and Margaret, his wife; Joseph Laird and his wife; Isaac Wilson and his wife; Jane Vance, Sarah Vance, James Pringle, and Sarah, his wife.

Not long after the organization, Rev. William Dickey administered baptism to the foil owing- named children : Thomas, Daniel 5'. and James, sons of James and Sarah Pringle. In 1824, William Dickey being Moderator, the session met and received, on examination. Martha Pratt, William Edgar and his wife; and soon after, Joseph Vance became a member. Previous to 1831, the ordinance of baptism was administered to John Edgar, Elizabeth, Sarah Ann, Mary Jane, Susanna, Joseph Colvin, Thurea and Elisha, sons and daughters of Joseph Vance; also Sarah P. and Mary E., daughters of David Wilson. In the year 1833, Nancy Waddle was received on certificate.

January 25, .1835, Rev. John S. Galloway as Moderator, and James Pringle Ruling Elder, the session received the application of John Heiskell, and Elizabeth. his wife. During this year, James Pringle, Jr., was chosen Clerk, in which position he served acceptably until the year 1858.

Clain preached to the society for a number of years. Mr. E. Edwards was Clerk for a time previous to 1861. On the 9th of March of that year, Milton Clark was elected to that office, and has filled it with ability ever since. Mr. Clark has held the position of Ruling Elder since 1862. James Pringle held the office of Ruling Elder from the organization of the society till his death, in 1867. He was a man of exemplary character, beloved and honored among men. James Pringle, Jr., was made a Ruling Elder in the year 1858, serving in that capacity until 1880, when, on account of continued ill-health, he was relieved.

Dr; Haight w as called in the year 1 859, and was the first resident Pastor of this church. Under his labors, the congregation took a new departure, and built their present house of worship. It is of brick, and was built at a cost of 85,000.

April 6, 1862, the congregation called Rev. N. S. Smith as Pastor. Bro. Smith accepted, but at the end of three months entered the Union army. He was succeeded in the pulpit by Rev. S. Jewett, temporarily. In August, IS 63, Bro. Smith returned and resumed his pastorsl labors. He was a man of remarkable activity in all labors of love - zealous, patient, pious. Under his labors the church prospered, and many were added to its membership. His wife w as an excellent Christian lady, well fitted to be the helpmeet of her husband, iii the )tiu IS 67, Ihc. Smith accepted, a call of a church in Ft. Wayne, Ind., greatly to the regret of his congregation here. On the 17th of August, 1867, the congregation called Rev. S. M. Schofield. His labors were full of good fruits; besides many being added to the church, the parsonage wuis built during his stay. He w as succeeded by Rev. - = - Thomas, who preached two years. In 1873, Rev. S. Kelsey was called. He remained four years, and, through his welldirected efforts, aided by those of his excellent wife, the church wras relieved of a burden of debt which for years had oppressed it. A spirit of harmony w as nurtured, the rich fruits of which were seen and felt on all hands.

Early in the history of the society, a Sabbath school w'as established. It has been continued from year to year w'ith good results. James Pringle, Jr., was Superintendent for several years. Rev. X. S. Smith served in this capacity long and well. George Shepherd w as the successor of Bro. Smith, and, in his peculiar style of usefulness, planted many seeds which have brought forth lasting good. He removed to Winchester, Ya., in 1869, followed' by many good w ishes by the community. J. M. Jones was chosen as successor of Mr. Shepherd, and, dining the past eleven years, has been earnest, efficient and faithful in his duties as Superintendent. During the same time, he has had the superintendency of a Sabbath school at Carthage, at which place he held Bible meetings a hundred nights in succession, resulting in the conversion of many. Miss Jennie Pringle served the church and Sabbath school as Organist and Chorister for more than twenty years, deserving to be named among those who labov for an imperishable reward. The membership numbers 125.

The Sabbath school of the society is organized as follows: J. M. Jones, Superintendent; William Ramsey. Assistant Superintendent; Secretary, James Hank; Treasurer, A. Comrie; Organist, Mrs. Jennie Jones.

The village of Selma is situated on the P. C. St. L. R. R., and in the extreme southwestern part of Madison Township. The State road, from Springfield to Hillsboro, crosses the Xenia & Columbus Pike at this place, Dr. Jesse Wilson, one of the early settlers, laid out the town in the year 1842; the lots are sixty feet front and 160 feet back. Dr.. Wilson was the first Postmaster of the village: the office was transferred from Oort svi lie to Selma in 1845.

Landis & White were probably the first merchants. W. G. Thorpe, in 1844, put up a storehouse and sold goods on the site now occupied by John Scanland. A. S. Ballard was connected with Thorpe in this enterprise.

The original society by this name was organized in 1822, and worshiped near the residence of Samuel C. Howell, three- fourths of a mile northeast of the village of Selma. Patience Sleeper was one of the first preachers. The records fail to give any very definite account of the early doings of the meeting, or of its membership, for the first four years. In 18*20, the society, here and elsewhere, on account of a question of doctrine, separated into two bodies: the one took upon itself the name " Orthodox, the other was afterward known as " Hicksites " - that is, followers of the doctrines as proclaimed by Elias Hicks.

Orthodox

This branch of the Green Plain Monthly Meeting of Friends left the Hicksites in possession of the meeting-house, and of whatever church property owned by the original society at the time of separation (1826), and, for lack of a meetinghouse. the residence of John Wildman was used for that purpose. Friend Wi 1dm an's house was one mile east of Selma. This branch, at the time of the separation, numbered 236 members. Following is a list of the fathers of the society, who, with their wives and children, were the principal members: Samuel Sleeper. Seth Williams, John Wildman, Cephas Atkinson, Thomas Atkinson, William Vickers. Thomas Embree, Levi Hutton, Jeremiah Warder, Thomas Lewis, Seth Smith, Jackson Allen.

On the 2Sth day of July. 1832, the meeting numbered 220 members. At this date, they determined to build a meeting-house, and thereupon they purchased for that purpose, of John Bocoek and Joshua Engle, one and a half acres of land near the village of Selma, and built thereon a frame church, 22x40 feet one story high, and with the customary partition. They worshiped here till the year 1871. when they built the house they now occupy. It is a brick structure, h >x52 feet, with vestibule front, and is of modern architecture. The cost of this house was 84,300. The present membership is 150. Jacob Baker is the present Pastor.

This branch of the Friends' Society had its origin with the original Green hlain Monthly Meeting, as elsewhere stated, in 1822. When the separation took place in 1826. this branch held the church property, the meeting-house being near the residence of Samuel Howell, three-fourths of a mile northeast of Selma. There is no record showing the strength of this branch when the society separated, but it is probable it was smaller than the branch known as the Orthodox.

They continued worshiping here till the year 1843. when on account of the agitation of the question of slavery, a division took place. A part of the society held extreme anti-slavery views, and a part were conservative; lienee the separation. The extremists held the church building for several years, and then became extinct, partly by their members joining with one or the. other branches of the original society, and partly by their joining other Christian denominations. The building, with the ground on which it stood, was abandoned. The conservative portion built a house of worship on the lands of Abel AY alter, a mile : vL.l. : t of the former one. completing it in March, 1844 ; their number at this time was 100. The church is of brick, 22x42 feet, and cost a cash out lay of $4! 5.06. The Building Committee was Thomas Merritt, Joshua Harrison, Isaac AYarner and Thomas Branson. The Title Trustees were John Ct. Oldham, Isaac Warner and Thomas Branson. Hannah P. AVilson and Ann Packer have preached to the society from time to time. The society now numbers nearly one hundred.

Selma Methodist Episcopal Church

Previous to the year 182S, the itinerant preachers of the Methodist Episcopal Church held occasional meetings at the houses of members of that church, who had settled in the country from other localities. Of these householders, mention is made of AYilliam Brooks, Isaiah Holloway and George Fox.

Out of this itinerant work grew an organized class, after the plan of John AYesley, and soon a society followed. The demand for a place to hold their meetings resulted in the building of " Brooks' Meeting- House " in 18 JO. It wras a he wed-log house, with a pulpit on the north side. The members at this time were not numerous, but they were full of zeal and good works. AYilliam Brooks and wrife, J. Holloway and wife. David King and wife, Abram Hyers and wife, Nancy Fox, Cornelius Hill, Catherine Marshall, Alary Murphy, and others, were of the original membership. Nearly all these were faithful men and women, and were instrumental in giving life, stability and character to the church of their choice. Brooks' Aleeting-House continued to be a regular preaching-place for a quarter of a century. Here, in 1837, a remarkable revival of religion, under the Bev. Reed, occurred, lasting the greater part of the winter and resulting in the conversion of many souls. Of this number was John AI. AYhite, who, in after years, became a noted preacher of the church. The society was favored in these years by the preaching of Samuel Clark, Joshua Boucher, E. B. Chase, and many other worthy men of this denomination. About the year 1842, the church became divided on the question of slavery, many of the members holding extreme anti-slavery sentiments, and nearly an equal number holding conservative views. The extremists withdrew and formed themselves into a so cietv at Cortsville, in the adjoining township, calling themselves AYesleyan Methodists. Those who remained were Catherine Marshall. Thomas Berry, David Fox, Elenor Baldwin, Cornelius Hill and Alary Alurphy.

The evil results of this separation were seen and felt for many years. In the year 1S55, the society built the " Gravel Church," which still stands on the site of the old Brooks' Aleeting-House. The Gravel Church was formally dedi - cated by Granville Aloody.

In the building of this church. Revs. AYesley Denit and T. Collett took a lively interest. Among the numerous Pastors who have tilled this' pulpit were Levi AAdiite. John G. Black, AYilliam Simmons, Andrew Alurphy, Joseph Newsom Allen AY. Tibbets, J. Arerity. 4. B. Ellsworth, David AYliitmer, Stephen F. Coney, H. Stokes, Al. P. Zink, J. L. Gregg and \Y. Q. Shannon. The charge belongs to Xeuia District, Jamestown Circuit, Cincinnati Conference. Since 1864, an interesting Sabbath school has been sustained during the summer months; average attendance, fifty.

Stewards, N. C. Kerslmer, Albert Negus; Sunday school Supeiutendent, Albert Negus; Class-Leaders, John Nelson, Albert Negus. The membership at present is about forty.

Green Plain Band Of Hope

An organization with the above name was effected at Selma April 3, 1873. Its object \uts to cultivate- among the young to talk abstinence from the use of intoxicating drinks, tobacco and profanity. The society was divided into two elasses - adult and juvenile. The officers were a Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent Secretary and Treasurer; also, an Executive Committee of three.

The constitution provided a pledge, as rollows: "I hereby solemnly pledge mvsolf to abstain from the use of all intoxicating drinks, including wine, beer and hard cider, as a beverage, the use of tobacco in every form, and from all profanity."

The officers of the adult organization were at lirst as follows; Superintendent, William AVildman; Assistant Superintendent, Daniel Lawrence ; Secretary, Eliza AVildman; Treasurer, Rebecca Parker; Executive Committee, Oliver Smith, E. AL Smith and Hannah Lawrence.

The juvenile department of the band was organized as follows: President. Alford Thorne; Vice Presidents, Eva Roadamer, Nettie Crampton and Lida Smith; Assistant Secretary, Maggie W. Hannabery: Treasurer. Thomas Thorne; Usher, Seth Atkinson. This society met each month. The exercises were held m public, and consisted of Scriptural readings, devotion, essays, declamations, discussions, music, etc., etc.

For the several years following its organization, the band held stated meetings, and its teachings and influence were beyond computation, molding and fashioning many a young heart in the better wav. In August, 1878. the band held its last meeting, so far as the record shows.

The colored Methodists of Selma organized a society in 1870. by the instrumentality of John Janitor and J. Underwood. They held occasional preaching at the schoolhouse and other places before building a house of worship.

A frame house costing 81,000 was built by this society in 1875. The principal contributors to the building fund were Airs. Perry Larkins, Airs, Alatlock, Nimrod Gibson, AYilliam Nickens, Levi Atkinson, John Scanland and E. Hollingsworth. At that time, the society numbered thirty members.

The Pastors who have served the church since its organization have been William Johnson, Edward Taylor, James Ross, Benjamin Combash and John Hammond. A vigorous Sabbath school is maintained the year round - John AIc- Uarrel, Superintendent - and the society promises well for the future.

The Underground Railroad

As early as 1830, the agitation of the subject of human slavery stirred up die people of Selma. Parts of the Quaker and Alethodist Churches of the village were particularly bitter in their opposition to any measure that tended to fa'-or the peculiar institution of the States of the South. This sentiment grew In strength and bitterness as years increased, until both the Alethodist Episcopal Hud the Hicksite Quaker Churches suffered disruption on its account. But the extremists never faltered. They were not outlaws; hut they recognized no human law which made them tools to capture and carry back to bondage the fugitive human chattel of an inhuman master. For many years they labored ail,l suffered for those in bonds, as bound with them. For many years they l>o\ved in Christian love before God, and prayed for an oppressed people. With an unwavering faith and a tireless energy, they worked in fraternal union for the freedom and enfranchisement of their despised colored brethren, and shared to- gethcr the odium attached to the name of Abolitionist, and, though many of them died before the dawning of the day of jubilee, they left to their descendants a legacy of daring devotion to a cause which redeemed the land from the curse of slavery, though with the atoning blood of many a battle-field.

For many years preceding the outbreak of the rebellion of 1861, Selma was known as a station of the underground railroad. This fact was nearly as well known in Kentucky and Canada as in Ohio. Slaves escaping from their masters in Kentucky were, by a succession of night drives, or by weary nights on foot, brought by parties further south to this point on the route. Here they waited only long enough to change the manner of travel, or to make some neces sary preparation for the remainder of the journey to Canada, and again were off in the direction of Mechanicsburg, Springfield or Marysville. The agents and employes of the route were well organized; their trips were made on time, their trains seldom collided, and, during many years of active business, no article of freight was ever lost. The road has gone down for lack of business. The descendants of Thomas Borton, William Thorne, Isaac Newcomb, Daniel Wilson, Joseph A. Dugdale, Bichard Wright and Press ly Thomas have no reason to blush at the mention of the daring deeds of their heroic fathers in connection with the history of the underground railroad.

The village of South Charleston was founded by Conrad Critz on the 1st day of November, 1815. The original plat contains eight squares of four lots each, and was surveyed by John T. Stewart-.

" Surveyed for Conrad Critz the foregoing platted town in Madison County, Stokes Township, described as -follows: Columbus street runs north, sixty-one degrees east, crossing Chillicothe street at right angles. Chillicothe street runs south, twenty-nine degrees east. Given under my hand this 1st day of November, A. D. 1815. - John T. Stewart."

The affidavit of Conrad Critz in acknowledgment of the above was made before John Kelso, a Justice of the Peace of said Stokes Township, and is dated January 18, 1816.

Clement- Stickley conducted a tannery on the western suburbs, near the residence of Henry Wilkinson, about 1825. The early settler remembers a large pond that extended from the present site of the post office to and beyond the Town Hail. It was a fine place for duck- shooting. An unpretentious schoolhouse4 was built near the present residence of Dr. Barnwell. It was 12x18 feet in size, and constructed after the plan of that day. Here Christopher Lightfoot dispensed the rudiments of education, and the generation whose footprints have since marked the sands of time conned dull lessons.

The building of the P. C. A St. L. B. B.. in 1848, gave new and lasting impetus to the business interest of the then little village, and from that day to the present it has enjoyed a fair share of prosperity.

Of the old residents in and about the village, and who were connected with its history and early growth, the names of David Vance, John Briggs, Nathan Low, James Pringle, Sr., Isaac Davisson, Jesse Ellsworth. Jeremiah Bodkin, Samuel Thomas, Seth Saint John and John McCollum appear as most prominent. Population -1850, 418; 1860,516; 1870,818; 1880,088.

In December, 1863, the First National Bank of South Charleston was organized. L. AY. Haughey being elected President and Milton Clark Cashier, this in- , doing a good business until March 24. 1877, at which date it surrendered its charter and continued as a private bank, under the name of the Bank of South Charleston, John Rankin becoming President and Mr. Clark still holding the position of Cashier. In 1871, a few of the more enterprising moneyed men of the town erected a large, commodious building for a hotel, which is called the Ackley House, in honor of one of the projectors who was most prominent in the movement. The P. C. & St. L. and Springfield Southern Railroads pass through South Charleston, giving good facilities to shippers. The town lias also a live newspaper - the South Charleston Republican - published by Rice A Yanmetre, which is a newsy sheet, and wields its influence for good.

South Charleston Official Directory

Clark Lodge . No. 166, I. 0. 0. F ., South Charleston. - Was chartered July 18, 1S50. The charter members were John A. Skinner, Pressly Jones, Isaac P. Paist, Daniel Smith, William Paist, Jr., Michael Lidigh, William L. Warner.

The original officers were: R. S. Fulton, C. P.; George It. Armstrong, H. P- ; William Watson, S. AY.; S. B. Hoadly, J. AY.; Edward Rott, Scribe; Darwin Pierce, Treasurer.

Fielding Lodge. No. 102, A F.ii'A.M., South Charleston. - Chartered October 1J, 1850. The original petitioners were John A. Skinner, E. \V. Steele, Alex

South Charleston Cemetery

This beautiful resting-place of the dead is situated a short distance from the village, and nearly north. It was purchased by the Town Council in September. 1855, and is under the care of a Superintendent. The lot contains eight acres, and was purchased of T. Mattinson and George Murray for $800. The location is a very desirable one, and the whole is inclosed by a neat and subetanial fence. The lot is platted into lots of convenient size, and the greater part of the walks and drives is properly graded and graveled, while numerous ornamental trees help to adorn and beautify the place, evincing taste and affec- Li oil Oii. me piii t Ot iiit* li \ iiig. miierous a £ i ... Ox maiole and gran ice mark the resting-places of the departed of all ages, while here and there rests the body of one who gave his life that the country might live. To these, affection has recounted, on marble tablets, how nobly they fought and how heroically they fell ; and here, when the joyousness of springtime comes to gladden the earth with flowers, the people meet, and, with twining leaves and flowers, bedeck the graves of those upon whose deeds the nation has built a proud history.

STATISTICS OF THE SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH CHARLESTON. IN MADISON TOWNSHIP, CLARK COUNTY, OHIO, FOR THE' YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31, 1880.

Number of schoolliouses. 2; number of schoolrooms, 8; value of school property, $13,300; number of teachers employed, 8; prices paid teachers - gentlemen, $94; ladies, $38.

Rate of taxation in mills, 3.3; pupils enrolled during the year - boys, 122; girls, 159; total, 284; average mouthy enrollment, 255; average daily attendance, 240.

Number of pupils in each branch of study - alphabet, 42; reading, 281; spelling, 281: writing, 201; arithmetic, 261; geography, 167; English grammar, 87: oral lessons, 150; composition, 87; map-drawing, 50; United States history, 60; physiology, 9; physical geography, 30; natural philosophy, 11? algebra, 35; Latin, 9.

Number of subdistricts. 6; houses built during the year, 1; cost, $1,442; number of schoolrooms, 8; total value of school property, $8,000; average wages paid teachers - gentlemen, $45; ladies, $45; rate of school tax (mills), 2. t; number of pupils enrolled within the year - boys, 181; girls, 102; total, 343 ; average monthly enrollment - -boys, 126: girls, 129: total, 255; average daily attendance --boys, 100; girls, 102; total, 202; number of pupils enrolled between the ages of sixteen and iw only -one years - boys, 30; girls, 1 < ; total, 4 1 ;- number of pupils in each branch taught - alphabet, 23; reading, 333; spelling, 326; writing, 307; arithmetic, 287; geography. 189; English grammar, 137; oral lessons, 28; composition, 34.

Educational Reminiscences Furnished

Nothing can be much more difficult than to get a correct account of the various schools in a community for a period of nearly seventy years, yet we have endeavored to obtain as many items as possible worthy of note, and which we hope will be of much interest to the citizens now living, whose memories go back many years, as well as to their descendants, even of the third and fourth generation ; yea, even to those who live more than a hundred years to come.

In the absence of any records left of the early schools (for there are none), our plan has been to get actual statements from those who either attended the schools of the earlier days, or who were well acquainted with the teachers and circumstances connected with them. For many of these statements we are under obligations to Thomas Woosley, Dr. E. T. Collins and wife, Mr. and Mrs. D. O. Heiskell, Dr. Curtice, Mr. (4. Sweet and others. These are all contributed items with reference to the first schools taught in the vicinity, and information with reference to the schools of the last twenty-five years has been obtained of those who attended or who were conversant with the affairs of these later- day schools.

The first schoolhouse ever built i jl this vicinity was south of the village of South Charleston, near the Little Miami, on what is now Kendall Truitt's farm. A man by the name of Fairchild taught. In this school there were but few scholars. This was about the year 1836. The next was not far from where Mr. George Gilroy now lives, northeast from town, in what is now John Thomas' field. A Air. Landfield taught, and several of the older ctizens now living atfended. Among those are Thomas AVooslev . J. Bodkin, the Ellsworths and Davissons. The merest rudiments w7ere taught. The next was west of town, not far from where James Pringle now lives. The building was a double log house, and Aloses Pierce taught in one part, while his father's family lived in the other. There were still but few pupils, and among them were Thomas W oosley, James and David Pringle, and the Hedrick boys. This same man afterward taught in a log schoolhouse near where AVilliam Holmes' stable now stands. The village was then quite small, without any pavements, and as a consequence the streets got quite muddy in the winter season, so that this little school was sufficient to meet the educational demands of the place. Air. Pierce taught about two or three years, and wras succeeded by Christopher Lightfoot. This gentleman is spoken of as being cross, and consequently not very successful. A Air. Vincent succeeded him - a verv nice man and a good teacher. He taught two years. He was followed by a teacher whose name was Peleg AYhitteridge, a good scholar and quite a successful teacher. He had more pupils than had previously attended. At this time, the following branches were taught : spelling, reading (the English Leader being the text-book in reading). English grain - m.;r and arithmetic. The larger boys could not generally attend more than tluve or four months in the winter season, as their services were needed on the farms. Dr. Curtice, now living here, and who lias been a physician here for many years, began his education under this last-named teacher.

Air. Whitteridge taught in 1824 and in 1825. At about. this time in the history of those schools, several ladies were from time to time employed to teach,.

but mostly in the summer season, and, while we find it difficult to bring them in in exact, order, yet some of them appear te deserve special mention.

In about the year 1880, a Miss Lucy P. Monsow was teaching in this district. She was afterward married to Mr. Jesse Griffith, father of Cyrus Griffith, one of the carpenters here at this time. This lady was very kind as a teacher, and was regarded very highly by her pupils. On Friday afternoons, she gave her female pupils lessons in sewing. This was highly appreciated by them, and they studied hard during the other days, that they might have this privilege on Fridays. Mrs. D. O. Heiskell was one of her pupils, and speaks of her with great respect. Miss Ruth Householder was another lady who taught successfully; is recollected as intelligent and worthy of special mention in this connection; afterward married a Mi*. Henry. She was the mother of Mrs. John Holmes. Miss Rice and a Miss Ransom are two other ladies who taught at about this time, and who are still kindly remembered by some of the older citizens, though they did not remain long in the place.

At about this time (1830), a tax was allowed by law' for the support of public schools, when the subscription schools gradually gave place to the free school, except, perhaps, during the summer season, when occasionally a school of this kind was taught. In 1831, a Mr. Furgison wras teaching the public school, and it was decided by the male pupils on Christmas to make him u treat," according to a custom which appeared to be in vogue pretty generally. The large scholars had assembled at the school home early in the morning, and the boys had talked over their plan of procedure, which was, in brief, that, when the teacher came and called them to 44 books," they would refuse to obey, but make their demands upon him, and if he refused, they were to tie him, take him to the creek and " duck " him, and it wras decided that one of their number who was larger than the rest, whom we will designate as J. P., was to take the lead in executing this little plan. It may not be improper to say that J. P. was large, and w*as supposed to bo stronger than the teacher, and he did not hesitate to tell the other boys that he would handle the teacher should he refuse to comply with his demands. The teacher finally came, and, it appeared, had anticipated some trouble, and, that he might be prepared, brought in his hand a nice large switch. Not waiting to give any one a chance to say anything, he w'alked directly to his desk, put up his uit and called 44 books." No one moved; again he gave his orders, 44 Get to your books." Still the scholars did not move, but each of the others looked at J. P. to begin the programme, but it appeared that the presence of the 44 master " had a peculiar influence- over him, and when, a moment later, the 44 master " approached the head of the line of boys and began a vigorous attack with his switch, applying it forcibly on every one he came to, J. P., evidently considered discretion the better part of valor, and took his seat and began studying with the rest of the scholars, without ever saying a word.

Mr. Furgison was not a large man, and, had the proposed plan the boys been attempted, they could have no doubt carried it out, as had sometimes been done in other schools. It is a satisfaction to know* that these old-time semi-barbarous customs have given w'av to the refining influences of a more enlightened ago. Mr. Furgison wras succeeded by Oswald Warrington, who taught a good school and was highly respected by his pupils. Col. Hathaway wras the next teacher. He was a man of fine education, good address, and a very successful teacher. His government was mild, and he w*as loved by pupils. Ho located near Platts burg, where he died.

In 183d, Thomas Harris took charge of the school. He was also a fine scholar, having graduated at the Ohio'Xniversity at Athens. He taught about tliivij years; was quite popular as a teacher; went from here to West Virginia, ami. during the war, was a Brigadier General in the Union army.

The iie.vt teacher \vas a Mr. 51c5Iillan, wxio taught two years; rather eccentric, and did not wear as well as some others. Following him came a Mr. Goldric!:. who taught two years. He afterward went to California and became wealthy. The next was Mortimer Holt. He taught one year, went East, mar- H»m1 and came back, and again taught one or two years. He was quite successful. The people were very sorry to have him leave.

Several of the last-named teachers taught in a brick building a few rods directly east from where the Methodist Episcopal Church now stands. This was a two-story building, with four rooms - two above and two below. A gentleman by the name of Eastman taught one or two years; an excellent teacher. He died here, lamented by many friends. John Miskey is very warmly remembered as one of the old-time teachers here. He was a man of great individuality. and was calculated to leave the imprint of his own character on that of his pupils. His forte in teaching was penmanship, maps, blackboard exercises, etc. He taught about two years. Dr. Curtice, of whom mention has already been made in this sketch, began teaching here in 184.3, and taught three years. He i. remembered as a very excellent, thorough teacher. In addition to the common branches, he introduced and taught many of the higher branches, as natural philosophy, physiology, algebra, geometry, surveying, elements of Latin. The wages then received was about $'25 per month.

The following are the names of several others who taught successfully, and of whom many good things might be said if our space would permit, viz. :

Job Haynes, Mr. Doan, -McCracken and "Whifcelaw Reid. The last-named gentleman has since attained to eminence as a journalist, he being the editor-inchief of the New York Tribune. He taught here during the years 1856 and 1857. He is said to be the first who organized the graded schools in this place. He was assisted by a man whose name was Lawrence, and one or two lady teachers, whose names have not been received by the writer of this sketch. After Mr. Iieid came Mr. Robert Story, who is remembered especially on account of a law-suit he had with the School Board, who required him to give up his school l>efore his time expired. He brought suit and collected hi ; salary for the unex- I fired t«rm of his school.

Names of other teachers are Alfred Jones, Mr. Chambers, Mr. Maley, Mr. Thompson, Mr. Ed Goul, Mr. Ford, Mr. Aikman. The last gentleman taught ia grammar department; also Mr. McMurray. Mr. Campbell was one of the tuxt who taught in the new brick building, the one now used. He taught two years, and was regarded as a very excellent teacher. He resigned his position here to accept the superintendency of the public schools of Delaware, Ohio, "hich position he has held up to the present time, a period of perhaps sevenhvn years.

Mr. Cropman taught and superintended here about this time for two years. Ho was an Eastern gentleman, a good scholar and a successful teacher, yet 'Vithal was regarded by many as rather eccentric.

During the school vear of 1868-69, the school was in charge of Mr. J. H. yalms. He acted as Superintendent and teacher of the high school, as had f <s,u the custom of those in charge for several years previous. He had five his sister being one of them. Mr. John Holmes was teacher of the grammar school this year, which position he has occupied until the present time, ,l period of thirteen years. From the various statements received from some of ' he citizens with regard to Mr. Galms, lie was considered deficient in ability to govern and properly control the school; hence he was not regarded as a sucee^s in all respects.

D. AY. DeLay was employed as Superintendent and teacher of the high school for the year 1809-70. In the beginning of his administration he examined each grade or department of the school, with the assistance of Mr. John Holmes, teacher of the grammar school, and the teacher employed for each respective grade. This gave the new Superintendent an opportunity of knowing the exact standing of each and all his pupils. On the examinatoin of the high school, it was ascertained that the scholarship of those who had been in that department was scarcely as high as it should be in the common branches, and it was deemed best to place them in the grammar department in most of their studies, that they might undergo a thorough review before attempting a highschool course. Then there appeared to be much useless lumber in the curriculum of the high school, and it was found, necessary to revise the course of study for the whole school, including that of this department.

After this revision, the course of study for the high school consisted of the following branches: Heading, English grammar, hygiene, arithmetic, physical geography, natural philosophy, physiology, history' of the United States, botany, chemistry, rhetoric, Karkness' Introductory Latin, Latin grammar and reader, Csesar's Commentaries, Virgil's iEneid, elementary algebra, and plane and solid geometry. This was arranged for a three years course.

Taking it all in all, the people of South Charleston have reason to be proud of their schools, and it is believed that they will compare favorably with other schools in places not larger than this in the State.

Much of the success of this school is due to the faithful co-operation of the School Board, and many of the parents, with the earnest efforts of the Superintendent and teachers.

The School Board, several years ago, seeing the folly of a frequent change of teachers without good reason for such change, adopted the plan of retaining the services of any and all who have shown themselves faithful and efficient.

At present, the number of pupils enumerated is about four hundred, and nearly three hundred attend school. There are in all in eight departments, including a colored school, and a. separate teacher for each department."

Part Vi Biographical Sketches

THOMAS C. ACICER SON, si ate roof contractor, Springfield; is a native «jf New Jersey; born in Monmoutli County in 1829* Ilis father, John Acker son, removed to the vicinity of Springfield in 1848, but Thomas, being an apprentice at the blacksmith's trade, completed his apprenticeship and came to Springfield in 1850, and was employed at his trade in this vicinity until 1861, when he entered the 16th O. Y. A., in which he served three years. After his return, he spent a short time recruiting his health. In the spring of 1887, he engaged in business here as dealer and contractor in slate and composition roofing, which business he still continues; his office is on Limestone street, and he is doing a very satisfactory business. He married, in 1873, Mary J., daughter of Louis C. Huffman; from this marriage have been born two daughters. Mr. Aekerson's residence is No. 68 East Mulberry street; he is a member of the High Street M. E Church, and a respected citizen.

DAVID H. ACKERSON, slate and composition roofer, Springfield; he was born in New Jersey April 12, 1833; came to Ohio and to Chirk County with his parents in 1848, and located in Springfield. After working some three or four years on the farm, he began the carpenter trade, at which he worked about seven years. In 1861, he established the business of slate and composition roofing, and was the first to start that branch of Lade in this city; at first his work amounted to about $500 or $600 per year; it has so increased that now it amounts to $10,000 per annum. He was married, in April, 1859, to Mary E. Gram, daughter of John and Betsey Gram; they are the parents of five children. Mr. Ackerson is one of the Trustees of the First Baptist Church of this city; his parents were both natives of New Jersey; his father was a brick-mason by trade; died in 1.855, and the mother in 1888.

BENJAMIN ALLEN, jeweler, Springfield. Mr. Allen has been for a number of years actively engaged in business here; he was born near ML Jackson, Shenandoah Co., Va.,Feb. 6, 1810; son of Benjamin and Hannah (Walton) Allen. Mr. Allen, Sr., was a native of Chester Co., Penn., bom in 1757, butremoved to Shenandoah Co., Va., when a boy; his decease occurred in Belmont Co., Ohio, in 1838, he being nearly 81 years of age. Mrs. Allen was born in Berkeley Co., W.Ya., in 1768, and died June 4, 1 854, in her 86th year; her parents removed to Frederick Co., Ya., near the Shenandoah County line, about 1776; both Mr. and Mrs. Allen were members of the Friends' Church. Benjamin was the youngest of eight children who attained majority, four of whom still survive, the three older being upward of 7() years of age. About 18.10, Benjamin's parents made up their minds they would find a free community in which to raise their children; accordingly, his father came West with a view of locating hand in the Miami Valley, but turned back on his arrival at Spring Valley, Greene County, where he had relatives, on account of becoming alarmed at the prevalence of ague; on his return, he purchased a tract of land in Belmont County, upon which there was a small opening and a cabin 16x18 feet, to which he removed his family, arriving in November, after a wearying journey of twenty -one days. Mr. Allen, Jr." s, first recollections are of scene.- on this farm, the first being a fight between a wolf and their dog, assisted by the nearest neighbor's dog, which fight took place after night and within fifty feet of the eal»iii door; when 5 years of age, he began to attend school at the village, about- two miles away; more than half this distance there was but a mere bridle path; during these school days, he heard many incidents of pioneer life, as the village was a place of rendezvous, and story-telling was the greater part of their entertainment, except " muster-days," when the rougher element was out in force, and wrestling, horse-racing, lighting, etc., became the principal attractions; when 11 years of age, his labor was considered more necessary than further education, and Benjamin therefore assisted his father on the farm until 21 years of age, without further school privileges. After he arrived at majority, he hired to a carpenter at 88 per month, and continued to work at that trade, his wages gradually increasing, until he received $26 per month, as foreman; during this time, he superintended the construction of some of the first threshing machines made in that part of the State, and continued to follow his trade until 1842, when, on account of failing health, he was compelled to seek some lighter employment, and took instructions in repairing watches, and, being a natural mechanic, soon became proficient, and, in 1844, started business for himself in a small village. Xov. 20, 1846, he married Elizabeth Adams; she was born in Loudoun Co., Va., Jan. 24 1824; her parents were William and Margaret Adams; in 1832, her father being deceased, her mother removed her family to Belmont Co., Ohio, where the mother died in 1867, being 75 years of age. Tn 1848, Mr. Allen removed to Indiana, where he had bought a farm, but sold out and returned to Ohio the following winter, and in April again engaged at the jeweler's trade; in October, 1853, he removed to Springfield, and purchased a stock in the room now occupied by Leo Braun, where he carried on business until 1864, when he sold his stock to J. P. Allen; subsequently engaged in same business with M. P. Davis, occupying the room directly opposite his present place of business; his nephew, whose name is also Benjamin Allen, joined this firm. In 1866, circumstances compelled- Mr. Allen to take the stock of the firm; in 1868, Mr. C. C. Fried took an interest with him, and they removed to his present stand, 35 East Main street, in April, 1869; this partnership continued until 1870, when Mr. Fried withdrew, and Mr. Allen has since continued the business alone at the same stand. Mr. Allen is one of the few now living who represent the connecting generation between the early pioneers and those who know nothing of the trials and hardships of those reared in pioneer days, without school advantages, and when the u best families " were compelled to labor to keep the wolf from the door; he is a quiet, unassuming man, who would have been much more successful in life but for the loss, to a great extent, of his hearing, which began to fail about 1842; but nevertheless, he has accumulated sufficient for the wants of his declining years, and is respected and regarded as an honest, upright business man and useful citizen.

GEORGE W. ALT, farmer; P. O. Springfield. He was born in Moorefield Township, this county, Jan. 19, 1820; worked on a farm until 21 years of age, when he began the trade of carpenter, at which he worked fourteen years, carrying on the business for himself in Springfield part of that time; he moved to his present home, and has since then followed farming. He is a sou of Adam and Maria Alt. They came to this county from Maryland in 1815, and settled in what is now Springfield Township. Adam died in 1876. Maria is still living at the advanced age of 81 years George w as married, Jail. 9, 1845, to Jane G., daughter of Matthew and Jane Wood, who were natives of Kentucky, and came to Clark Co., Ohio, in 1810, and settled on the farm where our subject now lives. Matthew died in 1830, and his wife in 1856. Of Mr. and Mrs. Alt's six children but foiu* survive. George's first wife died in i860, and. in 1862, he was again manned, taking for his second wife Mrs. M. J. Moody, widow of Peter Moody, and daughter of James and Matilda Tanner. Mrs. M. J. Alt has always been a very active woman, giving her services willingly and cheerfully on occasions of festivals, suppers and other public entertain- inputs for benevolent purposes; she also took a very active part in the crusade. Mr. Alt is also a stanch temperance man, and, since the crusade, has been a faith - fnl worker in the temperance army.

-DANIEL D. ALT, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Mr. Alt was born in this count v Jan. 9, 1837; he is the son of Adam and Maria E. (Drew) Alt; his father was a native of Maryland and settled in this county in an early day. Daniel lived with his parents until 23 years old: in 1861, lie enlisted in the 44th O. V. L, during the late rebellion, and served to the end of the war, when he was honorably discharged; in 1863, the regiment was veteranized and changed to the 8th O. Y. C. ; for account of battles in which said regiment was engaged, see history of the late rebellion. Mr. Alt was married, Oct. 29, 1868, to Ellen H. Hinkle, daughter of John and Mary (Way) Hinkle ( see biography of Michael Hinkle for sketch of her parents); four children have been born unto them, viz., Michael W., Adam S., John FL, Charles L. Adam departed this life April 21, 1872. Mr. Alt is one of those quiet, good-natured farmers who practice the golden rule. Poltically, he is a stanch Republican.

NAHAM H. ANDREWS, merchant, of the firm of Andrews, Wise A Putnam. This establishment dates back to about 1850, with W. S. Field and Nathaniel Stone as proprietors; they were succeeded by Rice & Co. in 1865, and they by Wilson, wise A Putnam, they by Wh o A Putnam, and they by the present firm; the character of the stock was at first seeds and iron, afterward agricultural implements was added, seeds dropped, and a line of hardware and stoves were kept; recently, the present firm have added furniture, making it a stove and house- furnishing establishment: since removing to their present quarters. Nos. 34 and 36 South Limestone street, they occupy two rooms, one of which is devoted to furniture, of which they make a large display; in the other is found a great variety of heating and cook stoves, ranges, queensware, and all necessary culinary utensils, together with a line of shelf hardware. Mr. Naham H. Andrews, the senior member of this firm, is an experienced merchant; he is a native of Massachusetts, born in 1830; early in life he began a business career as clerk in Boston, and remembers when he received 84 per week, boarding himself - this, too, after he had become of age; but, by perseverance and fortune's favor, gradually rose in the financial scale until he became a proprietor. He came to Springfield in 1S65, and has since been identified with the business of Springfield, except about four years, when he was absent doing business in Galion. He manned, in 1853, Miss Lavina S. Maynard, also a native of Massachusetts.

THOMAS L. ARTHUR, dealer in lumber, Springfield; is a native of Penn syl vania, born near Pittsburgh in 1827; his father was a woolen manufacturer of Pittsburgh, but, during the boyhood days of Thomas L., sold out and engaged in the lumber trade, and, in 1847, removed to Ashland, Ohio, where the subject of this sketch was engaged in the lumber trade a number of years. Mr. Arthur removed to Springfield in 1867, and in connection with Mr. Vorhees, built the pianing-inill at the corner of Pleasant and Limestone streets, aud lias since been identified with this establishment, now being sole owner and proprietor;, his experience of more than thirty years enables him to know the wants of builders, and ho is enjoying a flourishing trade. He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, and a useful, respected citizen; his residence is No. 335 South Limestone street. He married, in 1855, Miss Judith T. Liggett, and has a family of five children - "William H., now an accountant in his father's office: 1 lova B., Daniel H., Edwin C. and Isabella M.

JAMES BACON, farmer and stock-breeder; P. O. Springfield. He lives in a beautiful brick house near Taylor's mill, about three miles east of Springii* Id; he takes great pleasure in raising fine horses and cattle, and has at present some very line ones; he is a son of John and Mary (Cavileer) Bacon, and was born in Springfield Feb. 1, 1823; his father came to Ohio in 1812, locating in IJrbana, Champaign Co., where he lived six years; thence to Springfield, living there until his death, which occurred March 5, 1878. llis mother was born in Chestertown, Md.; her parents were among the earliest settlers of this county; she departed this life Dec. 22, 1868. James attended school until 15, when he entered his father's shop - he being a saddler - as an apprentice, and, at the end of six years, entered into partnership with his father, continuing the same some five years; he then went to New York City, clerking some five years in a wholesale hardware store; then, returning to Springfield, engaged in the dry goods business, under the firm name of Baldwin & Bacon, for ten years, when they sold out; he was then appointed, in 1861, Revenue Collector for this district, conducting the same satisfactorily two years, when he resigned, not engaging in any particular business until 1869, when he moved to where he now lives, and engaged in milling for a short time; since leaving the mill, he has devoted his time to his present occupation. He was united in marriage, Oct. 12, 1854, to Mary L. Topping, daughter of William and Mary Topping; four children - two boys and two girls - have gladdened their hearts. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have enjoyed their married life very much, and would be willing to live it over again. An incident in his father's life is worthy of note. The family, which consisted ot father, mother and two children, moved from Connecticut to Ohio in a wagon drawn by two oxen; John, then 12 year's old, drove the team the entire distance.

JOHN R. BAKER, farmer; P. O. Springfield. John R. Baker, son of Rudolph and Eve (Kiblinger) Baker, was born Aug. 27, 1807, in Shenandoah Co., Va. ; in 1818, came with his parents from Virginia to Ohio, and to Clark County, and settled in German Township, where they lived the remainder of their lives; the father died in 1825, and the mother in 1845. John R. Baker was married, Nov. 1, 1832, to Sarah Miller, daughter of William C. and Mary M. Miller; Sarah was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., March 31, 1814, and came to Clark Co., Ohio, with her parents, in 1818, and settled near the Bakers, in German Township; her father departed this life in 1S40, and her mother in 1860. Mr. and Mi's. John R. Baker are two worthy pioneers of this county; of their six children, but three are nowr living - Ezra K., James T. and Mary M. William C., in 1862 (at the end of his third year in Wittenberg College), enlisted in the 94th O. V. I., and was taken prisoner at the battle of Cliickamauga; after suffering the horrors and privations of Libby, Danville and Andersonville Prisons, he died in Andersonville Prison Sept. 22, 1864, one year from the time he was taken prisoner. Ezra graduated at Wittenberg College, in 1870, and is now* a Lutheran minister; Mary was married, Nov. 22, 1855, to David Cutshaw: in 1866, she was left a widow by the death of her husband. Mr. and Mrs. Baker remember wrell when they first settled in this county; they had to "blaze" the trees when they went to a neighbor's house, in order to find their w'ay home again.

CORNELIUS BAKER, ex- Sheriff, Springfield. Fie was born in York Co., Penn., Sept. 28, 1823; came to Clark Co., Ohio, in 1836, and settled in Springfield, where he sold goods until 1852; he then moved to the country and earned on farming for several years; during the war of the rebellion, he was appointed Enrolling Ofiicer for German Township, and wuis Revenue Assessor six years. In 1872, he was elected Sheriff of Clark County, and served in said office fom* years, being re-elected in 1874. Mr. Baker is noted for his generosity and acts of kindness; he performed the duties of his official positions to the satisfaction of all, coming out of office without a stain upon his character.

A. A. BAKER, physician and surgeon, Springfield. Dr. Baker is a lifetime resident of Clark County, and for many years has been a noted physician and surgeon in the locality in which he has done business. As one of our prominent liion, then, he is deserving of a place, in the history of the county. Ho was born in 1831, near Enon, and, during his boyhood, received an excellent education; his parents, Ezra D. and Anne (Morgan) Baker, reared four children - Cassandra, Leander, Gustav i us and our subject. In 1845, Dr. Baker commenced the study of medicine under Dr. J. J. McElhinney, of Dayton; in 1846 and 1847, he attended medical lectures at Starling College, Ohio, since which time he has practiced his profession in this and Champaign Counties. H is marriage to Mi ss Maggie Miller was celebrated in 1845; slie is of the old Shellabarger stock that have ever been noted in the history of this and Champaign Counties; their children are four in number - Annetta M., Elizabeth A., Scipio E. and Nellie B.; the eldest daughter, Annetta, is the wife of Dr. E. Myers, who is now a partner of his father-in-law. In 1870, Dr. Baker graduated at the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, although a highly reputable and educated physician, but wishing a diploma from one of the oldest schools in the West, and that the efti cient instruction imparted at that institution would be of benefit to him, besides the release from business cares, determined him in this matter. Wishing to engage in a i It v praefi'v he came in Springfield in 1880 and associated in business with Dr. Myers, still being near enough his old patrons, who are loth to give him up. During the war, he was appointed Surgeon of the 53d O. N. G., but was forced to resign on account of disability. The Doctor is one of those genial men who will surely merit the confidence of the citizens of Springfield, and he already possesses this of numerous patrons in his former place of residence. His father is now the oldest living settler of Madison Township, and was County Commissioner four terms, besides being actively engaged in the county's business enterprises for many years. His mother died in 1867 at the age of 63

CHARLES P. BALLARD, deceased. Mr. C. P. Ballard was born at Framington, Mass., on Nov. 7, 1820; he came to Athens, Ohio, in 1840, where he was engaged in mercantile pursuits, and to Springfield just after the war; he commenced manufacturing in Springfield about i860, buying out McClellan's interest in the firm of Rinehart & McClellan, the firm thu: formed of Rinehart, Ballard & Co., continuing up to the present time. Mr. Lailard was twice married, first to Electa Stewart Hawkes, whom he lost by death, and then, on May 15, 1862, he married in New York City Miss Eunice E. Hibbard, of Massachusetts. Of Mr. Ballard's children three are living, to wit: William Whiting, who is in Colorado for business and health; and Misses Susie and Helen, who live with their mother in their elegant home on High street. Mr. Ballard was an exemplary Christian, estimable citizen, and essentially a substantial man in every T»vuy; he was Deacon in the Presbyterian Church at Athens, and Elder in the Second Presbyterian Church here; he died July 19, 1878. Mrs. Ballard retains her interest in the firm, of which appropriate mention is made in the historical part of this work. Two of his children are dead - Mary and John. Mr. Ballard's father died the 23d of August, 1880, nearly 90 years old.

LOUIS BANCROFT, retired merchant, Springfield. Mr. Bancroft is perhaps the oldest man who lias lived continuously in the city; he came to Springfield in 1816, and established himself as one of the leading dry goods merchants during his business life; he also engaged in other ventures, all of which proved successful; at one time, he was a wholesale dealer in liquors, but, through the remonstrances of friends, relinquished the very profitable business; for ten years he was County Gauger and Government Inspector, and he handled annually 10,000 barrels of liquor. He was born in Massachusetts in 1792, came

Biographical Sketches

West in 1810, and was married to Miss Mary Christie in 1819; she was born in ] 800, in New Boston, N. H. ; they are the parents of six children - Leonidas, Phraotes E., La Fayette, Oscar Fitz, Amanda M. and Flavilla G. Another son.

otes wedded Miss Lou Maylicw; Oscar is the husband of Miss Jennie Myers; Amanda is the wife of Benjamin P. Churchill; and Flavilla, married Mr. William Kleinian. All were wedded before except one, and, with the exception of Mrs. Churchill, live in the city. Mr. Bancroft was a resident of this county two years before the organization of Clark County, and has until the past few years been actively connected with its business interests. In October he will be 89 years of age. There is only one house now' standing in the city that stood when he came here. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and while Deputy Sheriff during the early settlement of the county, achieved quite a reputation as an efficient officer, the men in some parts of the county being a very lawless set. He and his wife now live at their ease in a tasty cottage on West Washington street, and enjov the respect of every one in the city.

PHRAOTES E. BANCROFT, hatter, Springfield. Mr. P. E. Bancroft v,ras born in Springfield on Jan. 28, 1822, and is one of six children - four brothers and two sisters; he has been twice married - first, to Miss Catherine Mdodf. in 18-M. by whom he had no children to live; and he married again in

1859, Lou M. Mayhew, of Warren County, by whom he has had one son, Robert Christie, born Nov. 7, 1866 - -an exceptionally good and dutiful boy, and a great source of comfort and pride to his parents. Mr. Bancroft learned his trade with the. firm of Cotes, Lathrop & Arden, entering his apprenticeship in 1839; commenced business for himself in his present stand in 1851, where he has grown with Springfield, been quite successful, and is doing now the principal hat and cap trade. His family attend the First Presbyterian Church. AH. Bancroft, although not drafted, sent voluntarily to the army a substitute, at an expense to himself of about $70Q. Of his brothers and sisters, Leonidas has a billiard room; La Fayette is a tinner; Oscar F. is a photographer; and his two sisters are Mrs. Aananda Churchill and Mrs. Flavilla G. Kleinian. Mr. Bancroft's father, Louis Bancroft, is entitled to the distinction of being the oldest citizen, and no man knows more of early Springfield than he.

SAMUEL BARNETT, deceased. This well-known gentleman was born in Hanover, Dauphin Co., Penn., Sept, 30, 1790, and, at the age of 16, was left an orphan: had to struggle with adversity for many years, but finally, by dint of energy and honesty of purpose, he surmounted every obstacle to substantial success. He came to Ohio in 1817, settling in Warren County, residing in that and Butler Counties until 1841, when he came to Springfield, where he and his brother James, who had preceded him several years, erected a large flouring-mi 11, which was at that time the largest industrial enterprise of which Springfield could boast. He continued his milling business until 1859, then selling out to his son William A. Barnett and William Warder, retired from business. He was married, at West Hanover, Penn., Aug. 27, 1815, to Mary Mitchell, by the Rev. James Sharon, Pastor of Deny Church. Siie was born in West Hanover Jan. .10, 1799, and had bqrn to her ten children, viz., James, Susannah W. (deceased), David M. (deceased). Mary, William A., Levi, Nancy A., Sarah, George W. and Samuel. Mrs. Barnett died May 17, 1851, and her husband May 10, 1869, full of honorable years. Samuel Barnett was a lminble and devoted Christian, and warmly attached to the United Presbyterian Church, of which he was an active and useful member; he lived to see all his children married, and all with sons-in-law and daughters -in-law members of his own church, with the exception of two, who are connected with another denomination. James, his oldest son, a graduate of Miami University, is a minister, and was sent in 1844 as a missionary to Damascus, Syria, and Cairo, Egypt, where he resided many years in establishing the now flourishing United Presbyterian Mission of the latter -dnc-e, bein" in the foreign mission service thirty years, and now residing in Emporia, Ivan. Mary married Dr. Joseph G. Paulding, and they accompanied James as missionaries to Damascus, where they resided eleven years. Mr. Barnett was a man of great personality, a vigorous character, of undeviating integrity; in personal appearance, tall, raw-boned,. commanding, yet amiable, a man universally trusted and respected, whose counsels were sought, and whose friendship was esteemed a privilege to enjoy.

WILLIAM A. BARNETT, miller, Springfield. iUr. William A. Barnett was born Oct. 8, 1822, in Butler Co., Ohio, and passed the early part of his life in Butler and Warren Counties until 1841, when he came with his father, Samuel Barnett, to Springfield. The family are now much scattered, some living in Illinois, some in Kansas and elsewhere. William A. went to Miami University in early life; was in his father's mill from August, 1845, to July 1, 1859, when he and William Warder (of the Warder family so prominent here), bought the property and business from Mr. Samuel Barnett, and have been carrying on the business under the name and style of Warder & Barnett, with gratifying success for twenty-one years, making thirty-five years in all of one business in one spot - a rare example o£ continuity of purpose and effort. On Dec, 1.8, 1855, lie was married to Miss S. Belle Grove, of Chambersburg, Penn. ; of their children, Annie S., Ella M. and a son are living, and they lost a son at 3 months of age. Their daughter Ella lias recently married the Rev. Joseph Kyle, Pastor of the United Presbyterain Church of this city, of which Mr. Barnett's family are members. For full history of the Warder & Barnett milling interest, reference is made to the industrial branch of this history. Mr. Barnett mentions a curious fact that in his daily walks to and from his residence during his business life here, he has traversed on Limestone street alone over twentyfive thousand miles, or more than the whole circumference of the globe. He is one of those straightforward true men, the same to-day, to-morrow and always, and one whom all respect and honor; a man upon whom one can depend to the full extent of all he promises.

EDWIN L. BARRETT, publisher of specialties, Springfield. Mr. Edwin L. Barrett is a New Englander, having been bom on Aug. 20, 1827, in Worcester Co., Mass. ; his family on both sides was long lived; his mother, who now lives alternately with her children, being 78; her family name was Lawrence. His father was among the early cotton manufacturers of Massachusetts; owned a cotton-factory in Mr. Barrett's native county. On Jan. 4, 1849, he married, at Ashburnham, Mass., Miss Sarah B. Petts, a native of New York, daughter of Dr. John Petts and sister of Quincy A. Petts, Clark County Auditor, both residents of Springfield, the former being in his 84tli year; by this union he had eight children - six sons and two daughters - of whom only three sons are living now, viz.. Edward L.. aged 30, and Fred W., aged 22, partners in business with their father: and George Lawrence, aged 1.9, now in Wittenberg College. Having lost his wife in 1805, Mr. Barrett married, on March 18, 1867, Miss Clara D. Hulsey, a native of Milledgeville, Ga., by whom he has had a son and a daughter now respectively 8 and 11 years old. At the age of 21, on account of failing health, Mr. Barrett went to North Carolina, living alternately in Franklin, Halifax and Warren Counties, where he remained until 1856, spending his time in teaching, having, in the meantime, charge of a female seminary at White Sulphur Springs, and one also at Warrenton; he went from North Carolina to Oxford, Butler Co., Ohio, where, in connection with Rev. J. II. Buchanan, he conducted the Oxford Female Institute, continuing until 1861, from where, at that time, he came to Springfield, Ohio; here he went into the book business with Charles L. Petts, under the firm name of Barrett & Petts, later becoming associated withG. W. Hastings (now of the Springfield Republic), under the firm name of Hastings, Barrett & Petts, together carrying on, with their former business, book-binding and printing; this was in 1802. and continued several years: his brother-in-law and partner, Charles L. Petts, is now no more. On the dissolution of this firm, Mr. Barrett was for several years out of active business, his health again failing him; in 1805, he bought him a little farm a few miles out on the Charleston road, more, as he says, to die upon than anything else, and spent the intervening years between 1805 and 1807 in maturing legal and other forms, subsequently utilized in business, and, his health in the meantime becoming re-established, he commenced, in 1807, the business of his present firm of E. L. Barrett Sc Sons, for the manufacture of specialties in the line of legal, election and other blanks and forms and conveniences, which, under his thorough and careful management, has grown to be quite extensive and profitable. In 1872, he took his eldest son into partnership, and on Jan. 1, 1880, his second son was admitted to the firm; on the 27th of April, 1875, his eldest son, Edward L., was united in marriage with Miss Flora C. Lyon, of Cincinnati, and has now two sons and one daughter. Mi*. Barrett, Sr., and his married son and their families, live in adjoining houses in the same farm he purclm-o.-l ?n 1 805. Most of 3Ir. Barveit's family are members and all attend the First Presbyterian Church. Mr. Barrett is one of those excellent, eventempered men who go so largely to make up the most worthy part of all communities - kind, exact, careful, moderate, temperate, earnest and honorable; the influence of such men, while not sensibly pervading and aggressive, is only felt for good.

AMOS BABB, general insurance agent, Springfield. While Mr. Amos Ban* has not been a resident of Springfield as long as some others, he is most thoroughly identified with its interests. Born in Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1810, he came to Lebanon, Ohio, upon attaining his majority; removed to Cincinnati in 1858, and to Springfield in 1805. In 1834, he married Miss Martha H. Smith, of Strasbuvg, Penn., and of seven children- born him, four daughters and one son are living, to wit, Mrs. Mary Winger, Mrs. Ann E. Smith, both of Springfield: Mrs. Martha B. Sperry, of Nashville, Tenn. ; Mrs. Emma B. Scholl, of Baltimore; and Benjamin H. Barr, a resident of Chat anooga, Tenn, making a family group of seventeen when all together. The venerable subject of this sketch has been for many years identified with insurance interests, having been, since 1803, agent of that mammoth and honorable institution, the Cincinnati Mutual Life Insurance Company, with its $50,000,000 assets, and Mr. Barr has paid out to beneficiaries in Springfield alone over $100,000, and numbers among his policy-holders several hundred of Springfield's best men; he is also privileged agent of the Northwestern Mutual Life of Milwaukee, and regular agent of the Firemen's Fund of California, Fanner's Fire of York, Penn., and Amazon Fire of Cincinnati. Mr. Barr is one of those benign, courteous men, whom to know is to respect and admire; quiet, unostentatious, fatherly, and the embodiment of true innate gentility.

MBS. EMILY BARTHOLOMEW, Springfield. Mrs. Emily Bartholomew, nee Ebersole, is a native of Clark County; her father, John Ebersole, of Virginia. In his school days, Mr. Ebersole walked three miles to the nearest school, his path leading over the celebrated natural bridge. In early youth, he removed with his parents to Ohio; in 1819, married Miss Sally Keifer, of Sharpsbuig, Md., who, with her parents, came to Ohio in childhood; after marriage, they went on horsebark to his home in Cincinnati. In 1822, they removed to his forest home in German Township, this county, where he built one of the finest hewed-log houses of that day and generation, every log, plank, beam and panel l arsing through his skilled hands. Of their family of one son and four daughters. Dr. K. P. Ebersole has been for years the leading physician in Preble and the daughters reside in this and adjoining counties, and have all had experience as teachers in this county. From 12 to 15 years of age, Emily war. with relatives in Troy, Miami Co., receiving careful training in the family, church and school; when 16, she received from Isaac H. Lancey, her first certificate as teacher, and her first efforts were in old log houses, teaching nine hours a day, thirteen weeks to a quarter, and receiving the princely remuneration of $8 per month. In some districts, almost any books were thought suitable for " readers," Robinson Crusoe being quite a favorite in some localities. She spent eight years teaching in the county and attending the Ohio Conference High School, during which time great progress was made in the methods of and facilities for education; feminine ability was recognized, new and better houses and books were freely provided, fewer hours required and better wages paid. In 1852, she accepted a position in the Springfield Female Seminary, remaining five years. In 1859, she married Dr. J. Bartholomew, of Butte Co., Cal., a native of Ohio, a graduate of Dennison University, in which he remained a number of years after graduation as instructor, preparing, meanwhile, Ur the practice of medicine; in 1S50, he drove an ox team across the plains to California, acting as Captain and physician of his company. Soon after marriage, they sailed from Few York for the Pacific Coast; the Doctor's death occurred four years thereafter, and Mrs. Bartholomew remained four years longer, and, in 1867, she, with her two little sons, Frank and Ralph, took the steamship Constitution, bound for New York, arriving in safety after a voyage of twentysix days. Since 1808, she has resided permanently in this city, and her sons are each pursuing a college course. It is appropriate to make in this connection passing mention of Miss .May Ebersole, a most estimable aunt of Mrs. Bartholomew, who commenced her life-work as a teacher in 1825; in 1833, she built the house still standing oiv the northwest corner of Columbia and Factory streets, and opened a day and boarding school for girls. The greater part of her life was devoted to instructing the young, and her zeal and earnestness in this direction were remarkable. She often remarked that the material she handled was imperishable and that her work would be completed in eternity, and that therefore her vocation was specially dear to her. She died at an advanced age, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. * '

CHARLES A. BAUER, M. E., Superintendent of Champion Bar & Knife Company, Springfield. Mr. Bauer is a native of W urtemberg, Germany; in 1852, his father's family then consisting of the father, mother and four children, of which number the subject of this sketch was the third, sailed for New York; during a long and stormy voyage, the ship was drifted from her course, and the family were unexpectedly landed at New Orleans, where, after the lapse of but ten months, the father fell a victim to the yellow fever. Mrs. Bauer's situation was now a truly trying one - a stranger in a foreign country, surrounded by the depressing influences of a wide-spread epidemic? the little means originally possessed by the family wasted by travel and sickness; but, with that true fortitude which has ever been a characteristic of the German people, she resolved to seek a healthier home in the North, and arrived in Cincinnati in 1853, where she yet resides. At the age of 11 years, Mr. Bauer was employed in the pyrotechnic manufactory <)f H. P. Diehl; in 1801, he became an apprentice to the gunsmithing business; iu 1804, he entered the shops of Miles Greenwood & Co. as practical machinist, devoting his leisure hours to the study of mathematics and applied mechanics; 80 successful was he in this that, in 1867, he was called to the Ohio Mechanics' Institute as a teacher of drawing; in 1871, he resigned this situation to become Superintendent of the Niles Tool Works at Hamilton, Ohio, which he vacated in 1873 to assume the duties of Consulting Engineer for Lane & Bodies', at Cincinnati. In 1875. Mr. Bauer was tendered the position of Assistant Superintendent of the Champion Bar & Knife Company Works in Springfield; in 1878, he was promoted tu be the Superintendent in charge of the establishment, where he now remains. In ISOS, he was married to Miss Louise Haeseler, who came with her parents from St. Goar, Prussia, in 1851. Mrs. Bauer is a lady possessed of much refinement and cnlture, 'with admirable social qualities; the children of this union are three in number - Charles L., AVilliam A. and Louis E. Mr. Bauer is a self-made man, and his career demonstrates what can be accomplished by application and economy of time : few mechanical men of this country can excel him in that peculiar faculty which enables one to analyze a difficult problem in mechanics, or trace causes to results, while his natural and acquired resources furnish a constant fund of cultivated ideas, ready for application in any emergency. He has a fine collection of technical works, which, with a choice selection of general and standard books, compose one of the best private libraries in the city.

'y ELIJAH BEARDSLEY, deceased, was born in New Fairfield, Conn., May *27. 1700; at the age of 16, he entered and served in the war for American independence; was married at New Fairfield, the place of his nativity, to Sally Hubbel, 6 urn. », 1 1 o J, co whom vrarc born lourtoeii children- - six sons and eignt daughters; about A. D. 1796, removed to Delaware Co., N. Y. ; early in the war of .1812, he removed with his family to the State of Ohio; lived a short time in IJrbana, Champa^ i. Co., thence to Springfield, then Champaign (now Clark) County, where his go;. "1- wife died, July 23, 1823; he survived until Oct. 2, 1820, and died at the' ag; 00 years; he lived and died a true and honored patriot. At this time, the only member of his family now living at Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio, is Laura, the wife of J. S. Christie, aged 78 years.

JOHN BEAVER, brick-mason and contractor, Springfield. John Beaver was born May 23, 1829, in England; came to Springfield in 1859, at the age of 30 years. He was married in England, in 1849, to Helen Corcoran, and of six children, only three daughters are living. Mr. Beaver has been successful in

Springfield - the result, however, of unflagging energy, close attention to business, and living strictly up to all his contracts. A great number of the buildings of this thriving city are of his erection, and all of the many and immense Champion shops. Mr. Beaver is a member of good standing of the Palestine Commandery, No. 33, Knights Templar; Springfield Council, No. 17, Royal and Select Masters; Springfield Royal Arch Chapter, No. 48; Clark Lodge, No. 101, of Free and Accepted Masons; and Springfield Lodge, No. 33, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; also the Encampment. He lives in his own snug little home, with his daughters, at No. 18 Clifton street.

READ LETTS BELL, M. D., allopathic physician, Springfield. Dr. R. L. Bell was bom in Morgan Township, Knox Co., Ohio; was the recipient of a liberal education, graduating from the Dennison University. Licking Co., Ohio, in June, 1872; then took a full medical course in Harvard University, of Massachu setts, graduating in 1870; practiced one year in Toledo, after which he settled permanently in Springfield, where he has had gratifying success, even beyond his expectations. On Jan. 18, 1877, he consummated a matrimonial alliance with Miss Sarah J. Robinson, of Coshocton, Ohio. Dr. Bell, although intended by his parents for a healer of souls, finds himself to-day in the almost as important work of healing bodies; as a boy he was, and even now is, a close student and a great reader, and possesses a fine memory, clearly calling to mind his schoolmates at the early age of 3 years. Dr. Bell stood well in his class in college; was its poet, and in his junior year was associate editor of the college paper. Dr. Bell is a man of prepossessing appearance, clear-cut features, pleas- i ji<r address, and possesses all the qualities for success in liis profession. The Doctor is also Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society of Boston.

WILLIAM H. BERGER, farmer; P. O. Lagonda. He is the son of Daniel and Ester (Body) Berger, and was born in Berks Co., Penn., Jan. 21, 1830; his parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and were married April 12, 1818; their family consisted of seven children - two boys and five girls; they came to this county in April, 1S3S, and settled in Lagonda, where they lived about one month ; they then purchased (for $16 per acre) and removed to the farm which is now owned and occupied by William; his (William's) father was born Nov. 5, 1794, and lived to the advanced age of 84 years; his mother was born Dec. 11, 1797; she is still in good health, living with William at the old homestead. William assisted his father, working for him until 22 years of age; he then rented the farm of his father, conducting it successfully seventeen years; during that time, ho saved sufficient amount to enable him to purchase a part of the farm, and, by good management, in a few' years more purchased the remainder, consisting in all of about 130 acres. At the age of 20, he taught the winter term of a school in Moorefiold Township, this county; this was his first school; he continued teaching during the wdnter terms of the schools near home twenty-five years, being a successful teacher. He was married, March 18, 1852, to Mary J., daughter of John and Mary Jackson; she was born in Virginia Jan. 11, 1830; being left an orphan while yet a little child, she came to Ohio with her uncle, William j Moore, and lived with him until her marriage with Mr. Berger. Five children have blessed their home; they mourn the loss of two of then Da* jl F., who ! died Nov. 1, 1855, and 'W illiam H., Jr., who died Nov. 9, 7 ae' other three j

Strict integrity and honorable dealing have been leading virtues of his life; he j has frequently been selected and appointed guardian of children and administrator of estates. He has filled the office of Sunday-school Superintendent for twenty-five years, in which position he is still serving.

ANDREW T. BYERS, attorney and manufacturer, Springfield; was born in Madison Co., Ohio, in 1847; he was the son of a fanner, and remained on the farm until IS years of age, receiving, in the meantime, a rudimentary education at the common schools: subsequently took a preparatory course at Oberlin, and graduated at the Wesley an. University at Delaware, Ohio, after which he read law in the office of Hon. Samuel Shell abarger, and wras admitted to practice in 1875, and immediately began practice here, occupying the office a short time previously vacated by Shellabarger & Pringle, and has continued practice here since, having been twice elected City Solicitor - first in 1876, to fill a vacancy, i and again in 1877 for a full term of twro years. In 1878, he wras admitted to the bar of the United States Courts. He is now', in addition to his professional j business, a member of the Common Sense Engine Company, of wdiicli further [ but active man, a lawyer of recognized ability, and a careful business man, and j v.e predict a successful future to the new manufacturing firm. He married, in ; of the Wesleyan Female Seminary. Mrs. Byers' mother, Jane Bidwell, is known in lit eiary circle as contributor to some of the standard literary journals.