Clinton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches (2 of 2 so headed), 1915 (part 4 of 26)

The ancestry of the Vandervort family goes back to Michael Paulus Van Der Voort, who came from East Flanders, the region of Deudermonde, prior to 1640 and located in New Amsterdam, now New York. The records show that Michael Paulus Van Der Voort was married to Marie Rapalye on November 18, 1640, and their marriage is the fifth recorded in New Amsterdam. Among their children is one son, Paul, who was baptized on January 8, 1649. _He married Lysbeth Paulus Deickson and they had one.son, who was called Paul and who was born at Bedford, Long Island, and baptized in 1681. He married Nultze Staats and they had a son, Nicholas, born at Bedford, Long Island. Subsequently, the family moved to Orange county, New York, where Nicholas married Abigail Halstead and they had six children: John, Martha, Paul, Peter, William and Jonah. chee

Jonah settled in Clinton county and sat on the first jury: impaneled in Clinton county in 1810. He was born at Shepherdstown, Virginia, May 30, 1765, was married to Jane Tibbs, March 29, 1796, and moved to the Northwest Territory in 1800, locating at Columbia, now within the city limits of Cincinnati. He died at New Antioch in 1842 and. she died in 1845. Jonah had eleven children, six sons and five daughters, among whom was Nicholas, the father of Thaddeus and grandfather of Lorin A. The descendants of Jonah now number about four hundred souls scattered over eight different states.

Mr. Vandervort's maternal grandfather, Elisha Noble, who married a -.Miss Matthews, was one of the contractors who assisted in the erection of the present court house at Wilmington, about 1838. He lived on a farm near New Vienna, in Green township. Minerva Noble was one of eight children born to her parents: Elisha and John M., the two eldest, now deceased; Mrs. Vandervort; Mrs. Melinda Elliot; Mrs. 'Emily Slocum; Mrs. Spear; Mrs. Williams, and Mrs. Bowers. When a child Minerva Noble made her home with Doctor Runnells at New Antioch and was living with them at the time of her marriage to Thaddeus H. Vandervort.

Thaddeus H. Vandervort grew up on a farm in Green township and attended the public schools at New Antioch. After his marriage he drove a huckster wagon for Wilson's store at New Antioch, but subsequently rented a farm at Snow Hill. Jater he purchased a farm two and one-half miles north of New Antioch in Green township, where he lived until his death. He added to his farm from time to time until he owned two hundred acres. He was a Republican and served several years as township trustee. He was well known in Clinton county as a hog raiser. Mr. and Mrs. Thaddeus H. Vandervort belonged to the Christian church at New Antioch. They had eight children: Andrew R., who married Alice Devers and lives on a farm in Washington township; William, who lives in Trumbull county, Ohio. where he is a farmer; Lorin A., the subject of this sketch; Nannie J., who married B. B. Vandervort, a distant cousin, and lives near Jamestown, Ohio, where he is a fruit grower: Mary E., who married Frank Hare, and lives on a farm in Jefferson township; E. Bert, who lives on his father's place in Green township; James S., who is a farmer in Trumbull county, Ohio; and Nettie, who married Samuel Traum, a minister in the Christian church at Meadville, Pennsylvania.

Lorin A. Vandervort was educated in the public schools of Green township. assisting his father on the farm until he was twenty-one years old, at which time he was married. After his marriage he lived on his father-in-law's farm in Union township for ten years, and, in 1892, purchased one hundred acres of land from the Catherine Glass farm. Since that time he has added fifty-one acres, the farm now consisting of one hundred and fifty-one acres altogether. The house in 'which Mr. and Mrs. Vandervort live was built in 1891. '

On December 29, 1882, Lorin A. Vanderyort was married to Alice C. Wilson, -a native of Union township, daughter of James and Mary (Custis) Wilson, both of whom are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Vandervort have had two children, Lloyd and Augusta. Lloyd, who was born in September, 1883. died on April 25, 1899. Augusta, who was born in October, 1890, married M. R. Snyder and lives on the James Wilson homestead in Union township.

Mr. and Mrs. Vanderyort belong to the Walnut Street Christian ehureh in Wilmington, where Mr. Vandervort has served as a deacon. Mr. Vandervort is a Republican.

John Stephens

A' celebrated moralist once remarked that "there has scarcely passed a life of which a judicious and faithful narrative would not have been useful." There can be no doubt of the truth of this opinion when expressed by one of the greatest and best of men and it is particularly fitting to present the salient facts in the life of the late John Stephens, of Union township, Clinton county, Ohio. He was an industrious and successful farmer, an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, who, as a consequence of his industry, perseverance, temperance and integrity, rose to a position of prominence among the hundreds of eminent farmers of this county. During his long and useful life he was highly esteemed in the locality where he resided.

John Stephens was born on March 31, 1846, near Waynesville, Ohio, and died on May 2, 1914. He was the son of Obadiah and Susannah (Ireland) Stephens.

Obadiah Stephens was a well-known farmer and stock raiser of Clinton county, who was born in Morris county, New Jersey, April 22, 1818. He was the son of Ebenezer and Maria (Phoenix) Stephens, natives of New Jersey and of English and German descent. His maternal grandfather was a soldier in the War of the Revolution and his father in the War of 1812. Ebenezer Stephens was a millwright by trade and also a farmer. His son was a farmer and later a distiller. At the time of his death, he owned about four hundred and fifty acres in Clinton county. Obadiah Stephens came to Clinton county in 1847. On April 18, 1837, he was married in Warren county to Susanna Ireland. She was a native of Frederick county, Virginia, the daughter of Francis and Sarah (Curl) Ireland, the former of whom was a farmer by occupation and who located in Warren county in 1815, on a farm of sixty acres, where he lived until his death in November, 1817, and the latter of whom was also.a native of the Old Dominion. Francis and Sarah (Curl) Ireland had six children: Thomas J., Lucinda, Susannah, John C., Artimesia and James M.

Obadiah and Susannah Stephens were the parents of four children: Ann, Eliza, Emmeline, Francis I., and John, the subject of this sketch. Obadiah Stephens was a prominent member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a Democrat. His paternal grandmother, who was a native of Wales and who lived to be ninety-seven years old, left one hundred and forty-four descendants at her death, including in all five generations. Some years before his death, Obadiah Stephens built a large frame house which still stands. Of the children born to him and his wife, Ann Bliza married Henry Lewis and they are both deceased; Emmeline is a resident of Wilmington, Ohio, and lives on Rhombach avenue; Francis I., who was born on June 30. 1842. married Sarah Gallaher and died on September 12, 1912. He was a farmer. The father of these children died in October, 1897. at the age of seventy-three and the mother, March 9, 1895, at the age of seventy-one.

John Stephens received the rudiments of an education in the public schools of Union township at Burtonville. He lived with his father and mother until his marriage, and in 1876 his father built another house for his son on the same farm and near the public highway.. There he lived and assisted in the operations of the farm until his parents' deaths. Afterwards he moved into the large old homestead where he lived until his death. At the death of his father and mother, he received as his inheritance the homestead farm in partnership with his unmarried sister, Bmmeline. Mrs. John Stephens still lives on- the farm and continues its management. Altogether the farm now comprises two hundred and thirty-one acres of land.

On March 2. 1876. John Stephens was married to Alwilda McKenzie, who was born in Henry county, Iowa, the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Morton) McKenzie, both of whom were natives of Clinton county, born near New Antioch, the former of whom died in 1866 at the age of thirty-three and the latter of whom is still living at the age of seventy-seven. Soon after their marriage William and Elizabeth McKenzie moved to

Towa, where they took up a claim. Later Mr. McKenzie kept a hotel in Nebraska City, where he died in 1866. His widow and children returned to Clinton county, Ohi, and she afterwards married Eli Carson. They now live near Martinsville in Clinton county.

To the marriage of William and Elizabeth McKenzie there were born five children, of whom Mrs. Stephens was the eldest. The others are: Perry, who lives at Martinsville, Ohio, where he is a carpenter; Stanley, who is a farmer and lives near New Vienna; Geneva, who married Samuel Skimming, a farmer living in Wilmington; and Keith, who died young. Eli and Elizabeth Carson were the parents of three children: Stella, who married Benson Wert; Bert, who lives at Dayton, Ohio; and Carey, who is a resident of Logan, Ohio.

Mr. and Mrs. John Stephens had no children but they reared one child, Lola Clevenger, although she was not legally adopted. She married Matthew Ewbanks, a farmer of Union township.

Mr. Stephens was a Democrat but one who never aspired to office and one who was never especially active in political matters) He was a man of quiet and unassuming manners, modest in his claim to greatness but gentle and kind to his wife and to those with whom he was most closely associated. He was a good man and a good citizen.

Dr. Eldorado Briggs is entitled to classification among those whose names add distinction to the medical profession, not only in Wilmington, this county, although that city is his headquarters, but throughout a locality comprising a much larger area. As an able and skillful practitioner, Doctor Briggs is worthy of due consideration in a publication such as the present one, in which one of the functions is to record the chief events in the lives of those who have been especially useful to their community. It has been largely through his own efforts that the subject of this brief review has risen to a position of prominence and popularity in the medical profession, as well as in business eircles of the city in which he lives.

Eldorado Briggs was born on a farm near Wilmington, this county, on October 6, 1858, son of Capt. Samuel and Catherine (Clevenger) Briggs, the former of whom was a native of New Jersey, and the latter, of Ohio. When Abel Briggs, paternal grandfather of Dr. Eldorado Briggs first came to Ohio, he settled in Warren county, and later finding the county of Clinton more to his liking, in 1828 he moved his family here, where he spent the rest of his life. Dr. Eldorado Briggs was the third of five children, born to his parents, the others being Alonzo, Romeo, Abel and Sarah, the only survivors now being Prof. Abel Briggs, of Wilmington, and, Doctor Briggs. Capt. Samuel Briggs died on the old home farm in this county, when the subject of this sketch was seventeen years of age. His widow continued to make a home for her children and survived until 1910.

The early life of Eldorado Briggs was not widely different from that of other farmer boys. He finished his common-school education at Martinsville, Ohio, and began teaching school in 1874, continuing thus engaged for four years, at the end of which time he began the medical studies which were to make of him a prominent physician. In 1879 he entered the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati and was graduated from that institution in 1881. He then practiced medicine for the seven years at Cuba, this county, at the end of which time, he took a post-gradyate course at the Polyclinic school in New York City. Upon returning from the Fast, he began to practice in Columbus, Ohio, but remained there only a year when he settled permanently in Wilmington, and engaged in the general practice of his profession.

Doctor Briggs has been twice married. His first wife was Eva Cast of this county, to whom he was married in 1885. In 1908, Mrs. Briggs passed away. The following year he married Carrie Hlder, and since that time their home is one of the most attractive and popular centers of social life in the city.

Professionally, Doctor Briggs is a man of more than local reputation, his association with many important organizations professional and otherwise, being the result of his Personality as a man, and his success as a physician. As an indication of the latter, especially might be mentioned the fact that he is local medical examiner for Clinton county with the Industrial Commission of Ohio; he is also surgeon for the Pennsylvania railroad and United States Examining Surgeon for pensions; is medical examiner for many insurance companies; he is a fellow of the American Medical Association, and a member of the Ohio State Medical Association, and the Clinton County Medical Society. Besides those activities directly concerned with the medical profession, Doctor Briggs has been and is connected with several of the largest business enterprises of the city. He is a director of the Citizens' Bank, and also a director of the Champion Bridge Company, as well as a member of the Commercial Club. Notwithstanding all of the above pursuits which go to make up a busy life, the doctor finds time to look after his farm in Vernon township of this county. During his residence in Cuba, Ohio, Doctor Briggs participated actively in politics, and was from 1885 until 1889 postmaster of that town, under a Democratic administration; this being the party with which he has always cast his vote.

Doctor Briggs is'a member of the Presbyterian church and has been liberal in both time and means in building up the strength of his church of which he is at present a trustee. Doctor Briggs is also a prominent member of the Masonic lodge, in which he takes a very deep interest.

As the lives of many physicians have shown, much of their success is due to the kindly and sympathetic co-operation of their wives, and it would be difficult indeed to close the present sketch without acknowledging the service which Mrs. Briggs has rendered not only to her husband in his practice, but to the community, by her interest inhis work and her practical helpfulness. In this respect, the physician's wife no less than the preacher's, is called upon to make personal sacrifices, and she too merits grateful recognition.

It is quite evident from the facts here set forth, that both Doctor and Mrs. Briggs are useful as well as conspicuous members of the social group called a city, in which they have for some years made their home. They belong to that class of citizenship, which by its adherence to high ideals, and a strict sense of obligation, contribute largely. to the prosperity and the good of the body politic, and their influence is thus very strongly felt by a very large circle of friends and associates.

The final causes which determine the fortunes of individual men and the destinies of states are often the same. They are usually remote and obscure; their influence is wholly unexpected until exposed by result. When they inspire men to the exercise of courage, self-denial and industry, call into play the higher moral elements and lead men to risk all upon conviction, such causes lead to the turning of great states, great peoples: and great movements. The country is the greatest which produces the greatest and most manly men. The intrinsic safety depends not so much upon measures and methods as upon that true manhood from whose deep sources al that is precious and permanent in life must at last proceed. Pursuing each his personal good by exalted means, they work this out as a logical result, having wrought on the lines of the greatest good. What Samuel Horace Hodgin, president of Wilmington College, is: doing for his fellowmen and the community in general, might be told in words, but in its far-reaching influence his work 'cannot be measured' by any finite gauge of value. A well-educated, symmetrically developed man, his work as an educator has brought him prominently before the public, gnd today he stands in the front ranks ef educators in the Middle West. Because of his earnest life, high attainments, well-rounded character and large influence, he is eminently entitled to specific mention in a work of the province of the one at hand. He is too well known to the people of Ohio to need any introduction through this history, and is by nature averse to any notice savoring of adulation, but in the belief that honor should be accorded to whom honor is due, the following lines are devoted to a brief review of his career. . :

Samuel Horace Hodgin was born in Guilford county, North Carolina, on September 11, 1872, his home being near the famous old battle-ground of Guilford court house, where on. March 15, 1781, Cornwallis was outgeneraled and forced to abandon the Carolinas. The subject's parents were David and Martha (Blair) Hodgin, both natives of North Carolina, the father of Guilford county, and the mother of Randolph county. David ' Hodgin came of good old Whig stock and was in religious belief, an ardent Quaker, as were the generations before him. The progenitor of the family in this country, Robert Hodgin, was a Quaker preacher, who in 1657, came from England to America and located in Pennsylvania. Samuel Hodgin's father was a man of splendid qualities, a gentleman farmer and schoolmaster. During the war between the states, he gave splendid service as collector for the eastern district, and later was a member of the North Carolina state Legislature. A leading citizen of his county, he exerted large influence and was held ' in high repute. David Hodgin died in 1898, and the mother of Samuel Hodgin is still living in North Carolina. Her great-grandmother was a first cousin of Lord Cornwallis, who commanded the British forces in America during the War for Independence. To David and Martha (Blair) Hodgin were born thirteen children, of whom eleven are now living.

Samuel H. Hodgin received the ground work of his education in a log school house, known as the Concord school in Guilford county, North Carolina. His father was the 'master of the school and to his training and discipline the subject gives a large share of credit for his mental training. Mr. Hodgin entered Guilford College, where he was graduated in 1895, following which he taught in the same college for two years. He went to Haverford College, Pennsylvania, where he was graduated in 1898, and then returned to Guilford College as head of the department of English literature and history. He entered Harvard University in September, 1901, where he was graduated in 1902. During the following year, he was superintendent of the city schools of Oxford, North Carolina, and then accepted the position of head master of Oakwood Seminary, over which he presided for two years. This is the educational institution of the Society of Friends in New York state, and is counted among the best schools in that section of the country. In the autumn of 1905, he returned to Guilford College as head of the department of English language and literature. In 1912 he was offered and accepted the presidency of Wilmington College and at once entered upon his official duties. What he has done here is a matter of record.

As president of Wilmington College, Mr. Hodgin has earned the commendation of all who are well acquainted with the splendid work he has done. From a purely business standpoint, he has exhibited ability of the "highest order, and during the few years in which he has been at the head of the college, the finances of the institution have been so handled and the policy of the school so wisely formulated and carried out that never in its history has it been in better condition to carry on the great work before it than it is today. It was under Mr.. Hodgin's direction and largely through the stimulus of his own personal effort that the reorganization of management of the college was effected. When he came to the presidency, the college was under the control of two different boards - one a board of trustees of nine members, and the other, a board of managers of eighteen members, all appointed by the quarterly meetings. Mr. Hodgin secured a change in the charter of the college so that it is now under the management of a board of trustees of nine members, and the affairs of the institution are managed with more ease and con- fidence and with less cause for friction. Along with this improvement in the management of the institution has come a substantial increase in the attendance, the student body having increased about fifty per cent during Mr. Hodgin's administration. The growth of Wilmington College since Mr. Hodgin became president is the highest testimonial that could possibly be paid to his ability and foresight as an executive and to his eminent standing as a broad-minded, scholarly and enterprising educator. He has always stood for the highest grade of work in the class room, exercises the greatest care over the buildings and grounds, looks after the comfort and welfare of the students, and, being proud of the college and jealous of its good name and honorable reputation, it is easily understood why he enjoys such great popularity with all connected with the institution He has proved himself equal to every emergency in which he has been placed and t every position with which honored, and, as a ripe scholar and gentleman of cultivate taste and high ideals, fills a large place in the public view and enjoys to a marked degre the esteem and confidence of all with whom he comes in contact.

Samuel H. Hodgin was married in August, 1906, to Olive L. Jenkins, of Richmon Indiana, the daughter of Amasa and Mary Ann Jenkins, and to this union have bee born two children, Olive Marian, born in 1909, and Samuel H., Jr., born in 1913.

Mr. Hodgin is a member of the Friends church, and takes a deep interest in spiritu: matters. He is keenly alive to the interests of the locality with which he is identific and, as a member of the Commercial Club, exerts a marked influence among the busine: men with whom he is associated. He is a man of fine and forceful personality - the be type of young manhood. Genial and companionable and a splendid conversationalist, I is a welcome guest in any circle which he chooses to enter, for he carries with him tt spirit of optimism and good cheer, while his life is a constant source of inspiration 1 those who come under his influence.

Perry M. Champlin

One of the enterprising and highly-respected farmers of Clinton county, who ha succeeded in his chosen vocation, largely as the consequence of his own courage, persist ency and good management, is Perry M. Champlin, who owns a farm of two hundre and thirty-one acres in Washington township. He is a man who believes in taking <¢ part in public affairs but he has never permitted outside interests and influences to inter fere with his success as a farmer.

Perry M. Champlin was born on August 28, 1866, on the old home farm in Washington township, the son of Edward M. and Sarah (Bates) Champlin, the former of whom was born on December 8, 1836, and the latter of whom was born on August 30, 1841.

Edward M. Champlin, the son of Joshua and Hannah H. Champlin, was reared on a farm and lived there until seventeen years of age. Joshua Champlin was a retired sea captain and settled in Washington township, Clinton county. He bought one hundred seventy-nine and three-quarters acres of land 'in 1830 and remained here the balance of his life. Beginning at the age of seventeen, Edward M. Champlin served an apprenticeship of three years learning the printer's trade in the office of the Cincinnati Commercial, at the end of which period, he engaged in the retail grocery business with his brother, John M., at Cincinnati, where they lived for four years. At the end of that time, they returned to Clinton county, where, after living a year, an additional year was spent in the west. Upon returning to Clinton county, Edward M. Champlin enlisted on September 15, 1861, in Company F, Seventeenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving under General Thomas. He participated in the battles of Wild Cat, Somerset, the siege of Corinth, Perryville, Hoover's Gap, Stone's River, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge. Stiil later he enlisted as a veteran under Sherman and was engaged at Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Jonesboro and Atlanta. He participated in the famous march from Atlanta to the sea and was discharged with worthy honors at Camp Chase, Ohio, July

17, 1865. On July 25, 1864, he was appointed first lieutenant and was finally promoted to adjutant, with which rank he was discharged. At the end of the war, he returned home and engaged in farming. -

Edward M. Champlin was married to Sarah E. Bates, October 5, 1865. She was a native of Warren county ani died on February 20, 1873. To this upion were born four children: Perry M., the subject of this sketch; Minnie A.; and George and Edward B., both deceased. Mr. Champlin was married, secondly, June 18, 1874, to Mary E. Ireland, the daughter of John C. Ireland, of Wilmington. She was born in Warren county, October 20, 1842, and bore her husband two ehildren, Emma B. and Lena. Edward M. Champlin was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a Republican and served two terms as township trustee.

Perry M. Champlin, whose paternal grandparents were Joshua and Hannah E. Champlin, natives of Rhode Island, was educated in the common schools of Washington township and, when a young man, began farming on his father's farm. This vocation he has followed ever since. He owns two hundred and thirty-one acres of land in Washington township. =

Perry M. Champlin was married to Florence BH. Purdy, who was born in 1870 and died on October 2, 1910. To this union were born four children: Edward L. (deceased), who married Iva Sprinkle and had one child, Frances; May, who married George Irvin; Orval, who died young; and Burdette. On August 27, 1911, Mr. Champlin was married, secondly, 'to Elizabeth Armbrewster, who was born on August 14, 1872, in Highland county, Ohio, the daughter of Dominic and Hannah Mary (McLaughlin) Armbrewster. No children have been born to this second marriage.

As a Republican, Mr. Champlin has served in various minor capacities, especially as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Junior Order of United American Méchanics.

Alfred J. Williams

In the wonderful progress humanity has been making along so many scientific lines in recent years, no more significant step has been taken in any dtfrection than that which marks the improvement in the methods of caring for the physical ailments of mankind. All "schools" of medicine have been effected by the irresistible demand of humanity for something that will actually touch at the roots of disease and provide correctives for the manifold bodily sufferings of humanity. Im all of these "schools" there no doubt has been marked advance, due to this insistent demand, but in the field so rapidly being filled by the progressive school of osteopathy, there has been an advance in the last few years that has been remarkable and which is being taken note of by thoughtful persons everywhere.

Among the practicing osteopathic physicians of Ohio, there is none who enjoys a better reputation for keeping 'abreast of all the latest knowledge which the unceasing research of science daily is bringing to light relating to the treatment of humanity's ailments, than Dr, Alfred J. Williams, who, since March, 1900, has been very successfully engaged in practice at Wilmington, this county, where he has well-equipped offices. During the time Doctor Williams has been logated in Wilmington he has made many warm friends, not only in the county seat, but in all parts of Clinton county, where the practice of his profession has called him. He undoubtedly has succeeded in proving to even the most doubting ones, who, not very many years ago, were inclined to look askance at the claims set up by the osteopathic school of treating human ills, the actual and unmistakable benefits growing out of the methods of this school of practice.

Alfred J. Williams was born in Gallia county, Ohio, on January 7, 1853, son of William and Lucinda (Allison) Williams, the former of whom was bern in Greenbriar county, Virginia, and thé latter of whom was born in Gallia county, this state.

Dr. Alfred J. Williams

William Williams was the son of William and Mary (Watts) Williams, the former of whom was a Virginian, a native of Fairfax county, Virginia and later moved to Greenbriar county, and the latter of whom was born in Maryland, who emigrated from Virginia to Ohio when William, Jr., was eight yeurs of age, settling in Gallia county. The elder William Williams was a soldier in the Continental army during the War of Independence, serving for a period of eighteen months in that historic struggle, for which service he never received a penny in payment. He was an earnest Methodist and lived to be seventy-eight years of age. The younger William Williams, father of the immediate subject of this biographical narrative, was reared on the paternal farm in Gallia county and became a personage of much prominence in his community, being a man of large influence therein. He was one of the leaders of the Republican party in 'that neighborhood after the formation of that party and served his community ably as a justice of the peace for many years. He was united in marriage to Lucinda Allison, daughter of John and Rebecca (Carter) Allison, natives of Ohio, and pioneer farmers of Gallia county, the former of whom was a soldier in the American army during the War of 1812, and to this union were born seven children,. namely: John H., deceased; James K., deceased; William Harvey, deceased; David Y., a promiuent fruit grower living at Redlands, California; Dr. Alfred J., the subject of this sketch; Salathiel W., a well-known physician, living in Gallia county, Ohio, and Rebecca Harriet, deceased.

Alfred J. Williams received his preliminary education in the public schools of his native county, which he supplemented by a-course in the National Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio, after which for two years he taught school in Gallia county, at the end of which time he moved to Livohia, Putnam county, Missouri, where for four years he was engaged in teaching. During this term of service he made many friends in that section and was elected clerk of Putnam county on the Republican ticket, giving such excellent service in that office that he was re-elected for a second term, serving eight years in that capacity, after which, for five years, he served as deputy clerk in the office of his successor. His mind then turning in the direction of further professional occupation, he entered the American School of Osteopathy at Kirksville, Missouri; following a course of 'instruction at this institution, he practiced for one year at Wellsville, Missouri, and in 1900 came to this county. locating at Wilmington, where he ever since has been successfully engaged in the practice of his chosen profession.

On April 9. 1876, Dr. Alfred J. Williams was united in marriage to Eliza E. Minear, who was born in Schuyler county, Missouri. daughter of the Rey. Alpheus and Margaret J. (Brown) Minear. the former of whom was a minister of the United Brethren church, and both of whom are now dead. To this union five children have been born, as follow: Dr. William E.. a practicing osteopathic physician, of Massilon, Ohio: Dove, who married J. A. Campbell and lives at Akron, Ohio; Lucille. who married G. A. Steen and also lives at Akron; Dale, who married Z. Underwood and died at the age of twenty-three years, and Cleta, who remains with her parents.

' Doctor and Mrs. Williams are members of the Methodist church and their children were resred:in this faith. to which they also gave their active adherence. Doctor Willjams is a Mason and is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and the Ohio Osteopathic Society. in the deliberations of both of which organizations he takes an active part. Doctor Williams is entitled to all the commendation which has been bestowed upon him by the people of Wilmington and surrounding country, since taking up his residence in Clinton county's capital. He has made a fine reputation in the practice of his chosen profession, and his earnestness and painstaking efforts to apply the

Allen M. West

The great state of Ohio has been honored by the careers of its professional men, its industrial managers, its commercial magnates and especially by its farmers and stockmen. In every section are to be found men born to leadership, men who have dominated because of their superior intelligence, natural endowment and force of character. It is always profitable to present the salient facts in the lives of such men, seel. out their ancestral origin, weigh their motives and examine their achievements. These reflections are suggested by the career of Allen M. West, farmer, stockman and public-spirited man of affairs, of Cuba, Clinton county, Ohio. No citizen in this part of Clinton county has achieved a more honorable position or occupied a more conspicuous place in public affairs than Allen M. West. He owns and operates a large farm of three hundred acres near Cuba and is perhaps the largest individual live stock dealer in Clinton county,'but he has always taken a commendable interest in public affairs, especially in educational development and to him, perhaps more than to any other man, is due the splendid school system which now prevails at Cuba. He is related collaterally to the great Benjamin West, the artist who gained lasting fame, not only for himself and the West family, but for his native land.

Allen M. West was born on October 1, 1869, in Washington township, near Cuba, and is the son of Allen L. and Martha J. (Maxfield) West, the former of whom was a native of Clark township, Clinton county, and the latter of whom was a native of Clermont county and the daughter of James Maxfield. The paternal grandparents were James and Elizabeth West.

About the year 1716 John W. West, who had married Sarah Pearson, came from England and settled in Pitts county, Pennsylvania, where they reared a family of seven children: Joseph, Mary, William, Sarah, Samuel, Rachel and Benjamin. Benjamin, the youngest child in this family, was an artist, whose work came to be well-known on two continents. Joseph, the eldest child in the family, married Jane Owen, the daughter of John Owen. To them were born nine children: Isaac, Facy, Owen, John, Sarah, Joseph, Hannah, George and Benjamin. About 1750 Owen West, the third child of this family, was 'born. He married Elizabeth Martin and moved to Virginia from Pennsylvania 'and later from Virginia to Clinton county, Ohio. Owen and Elizabeth (Martin) West had thitteen children: Nancy, Jane, William, Mary, Susan, Owen, Thomas, James, Plyton, Elizabeth, Emily, Rebecca and John. Of this family, James, the eighth child, whose wife was Elizabeth West, was the father of Allen L. West and the grandfather of Allen M. The great-grandfather, Owen West and his wife, Elizabeth (Martin) West, came to Ohio from Virginia and located in the valley of the east fork of the Little Miami river, where they purchased nineteen hundred acres of government land all in Clinton county and nearly all in Clark township, where he and his wife died. James West was a farmer, who remained on the old estate and added to his inheritance until he owned one thousand acres of the original nineteen hundred. He and his wife died on the old home estate. For nine years he was a justice of the peace in Clinton county.

Allen L. West was educated in the common schools of Clark township and when a young man began farming in the township of his birth. About 1865 he moved to Washington township, where he farmed the remainder of his life, owning, at the time of his death, three hundred acres of land in that township. He was an extensive stock breeder. To Allen L. and Martha J. (Maxfield) West were born nine children, of whom Allen M., the subject of this sketch, was the seventh. The other children were Silas B., Susannah, Elizabeth, James, George, Jennie, Martha H. and Mary J. The parents were members of the Methodist church and Allen L. West was a trustee in the church for many years. He was a brother of Col. Owen West, farmer, manufacturer, inventor and soldier, of Clark township, and a distinguished citizen of this county. ; in the schools of Cuba, Ohio. When a young man, he began farming in Washington township. After farming here for fifteen years or until September, 1903, he moved to Cuba, where he has since lived. Mr. West owns two farms near Cuba, comprising three hundred acres, and oversees them personally. For the last fifteen years he has dealt in hay, grain and live stock and is probably the most exten8ive individual stock buyer in the whole county.

On December 25, 1890, Allen M. West was married to Rhoda S. Biggs, the daughter of George and Ruth (Wright) Biggs. She was born on June 4, 1865. George Biggs, the son of William B. and Rhoda Biggs, was born in Washington township, December 23, 1824, and reared on a farm. After 1847 he was engaged in lumbering and, at this time, built the first steam saw-mill in Washington township, at Cuba. He was married in January, 1849, to Ruth Wright, the daughter of Daniel and Teresa Wright, and they had seven children, three of whom died early in life. At the time of his death, Mr. Biggs owned a farm of one hundred and five acres in Clinton county.

Mr. and Mrs. Allen M. West are the parents of five children: Hazel May, who is now a teacher of music and art in the Wilmington high school and is a graduate of Miami University; Mabel Edna, who is a student at Miami University; Ruth Ellen, Alma Martha and Allen Biggs, all of whom are at home.

Mr. and Mrs. West and family are members of the Christian church. Mr. West is a Democrat and for sixteen years he has been a member of the school board. He is possessed with a natural interest in education and deserves much credit for the high standard of the schools in this community.. Mr. West was township clerk for twelve years.

Alfred S. Penquite

Alfred S. Penquite is a thrifty farmer of Washington township, Clinton county, and a man not only of strong character but of pleasing personality and who is exceedingly popular with the people of this township.

Born on February 8, 1867, in Marion township, Clinton county, Ohio, Alfred S. Penquite is the son of Alexander and Susannah (Vandoren) Penquite. The father was born in Clarksville in Warren county and the mother also was born near Clarksville. She was the daughter of William and Athlina Vandoren.

The paternal grandfather of Alfred S., William Penquite, was a sea captain along the Atlantic coast and was lost at sea. His children were William, John, Alexander, Nancy and Elizabeth.

Alexander Penquite received a good education in the schools of Warren county and farmed in that county until about 1865, when he moved to Clinton county and located in Washington township. He remained in that township only one year, however, when he moved to Marion township in Clinton county. There he spent the remainder of his life on a farm of one hundred acres which he owned. Alexander and Susannah Penquite had four children, of whom Alfred S., the subject of this sketch, was the youngest. The three elder children were: Louisa, who married J. H. Pennington; Amanda, who became the wife of J. E. Mitchell; and Lucian, who married Lizzie Hallstead. The father's family were members of the Free-will Baptist church. He was a Republican in politics.

Educated in the common schools of Marion township, Alfred S. Penquite began farming in that township. In 1892 he moved to Washington township. where he rented the farm which he purchased in 1897, and which consists of one hundred acres. He is a general farmer and stock raiser, but his standing as a citizen consists not so much in his success as a farmer as in his natural powers of leadership, his wide information and his eordial relations with his neighbors.

In 1892 Alfred S. Penquite was married to Jennie M. Mitchell, the daughter of G. R. and Mary (Clevenger) Mitchell. Mr. and Mrs. Penquite have no children. Mr. Penquite is a Republican and served a term of six years as trustee of Washington township, a very important office and one which he filled with credit to himself and to the community he served. Mr. Penquite is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. and Mrs. Penauite enjoy the comforts of a modern home and pleasant surroundings.

Charles W. Sewell

Among the younger farmers of Washington township, "Clinton county, Ohio, who are making rapid strides in farming, in Charles W. Sewell, who belongs to one of the oldest of the old families of Clinton county and who is one of the most active citizens and farmers of Washington township. His paternal great-grandfather was, for several years, judge of the Clinton county court and built the first grist and saw-mill in the county as well as the first stone house, The Sewells are from Virginia originally, the first emigrant having been Charles W. Sewell's great-grandfather, Judge Aaron Sewell, who came about 1798 to Lebanon and two years later, accompanied by many other members of the family, to Vernon township, Clinton county.

Charles W. Sewell is a native of Vernon township, born on April 28, 1872, the son of Amos T. and Amanda N. (Flora) Sewell, the former of whom was a native of Vernon township and the latter of whom was born near Martinsville. He was educated in the common schools of Vernon township and began farming, when a young man, in his native township. Amos T. enlisted in the Union army in 1861, and served until the close of the Civil War in the Eleventh Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in many battles, especially the battle of Gettysburg. Shortly after the war, he began farming in Vernon township on the farm which Charles W., subject, now owns. In 1914, he moved to Clarksville, where he now lives retired. By his marriage to Amanda N. Flora, there were born three children: Rose, Charles W. and Amanda, the latter of whom is deceased. The mother of these children died in 1874 and later Amos T. Sewell was married to Patience Green. To them were born ten children: Gladys, Mary, Roy, Cyrus, Carrie, Edwin, Cecil, Frederick, Irene and Mabel. Amos T. Sewell is a Democrat in politics and a well-known and prominent citizen of this county.

The paternal grandfather, Aaron R. Sewell, a native of Clinton county, Ohio, was one of five children born to his parents, Aaron and Catherine Sewell. The others were Ezra, David, Elizabeth and Mary. Aaron R. Sewell was a justice of the peace at Clarksville for many years and he also served early in the history of the county as county commissioner for several years. He was a miller, farmer and surveyor and in his early days also taught school. His first wife was Lydia Stansbury, the daughter of Recompense and Catherine Stansbury, the former of whom was one of the old settlers of Clarksville, Vernon township. By this marriage there were four children: John G., Mary E., Cyrus L. and Amos T. Mrs. Lydia Sewell died and after her death, Aaron R. Sewell married Mary M. Lazenby, who bore him six children: Celestia Ella, who died at the age of fourteen; Ruth Caroline, Oscar L., Edgar Newton, Elmer A. and Florence M.

The old Sewell mill was located on the East Fort on what is known today as the David Pond place and, for many years, was a landmark in this section of Clinton county.

Charles W. Sewell was educated in the common schools of Vernon township and, early in life, began farming in this township. In 1898 he rented a farm in Washington township of ninety-seven acres, where he now lives. About 1908 he purchased a half interest in the farm. He now owns two hundred and fifty acres which of itself speaks volumes with regard to his enterprise and thrift. He is a stock dealer and does a large business in buying and selling hogs, cattle, horses and sheep.

On March 10, 1907, Charles W. Sewell was married to Vinnia Wisbey. the daughter of Louis and Agnes (Clark) Wisbey. Louis Wisbey was a well-known citizen for more than a half century in the city of Cincinnati. His father was a hero of the War of 1812 and his grandfather was a valiant and courageous soldier in the Revolutionary War.

In 1841 Louis Wisbey became a volunteer fireman in the Cincinnati fire department and rose by virtue of sheer merit to chief of the fire department in 1884 and filled this office for many years. As a matter of fact, he filled every office in the fire department of Cincinnati with the exception of that of secretary. He served thirty-eight years con-: tinuously in some capacity or other. He died on April 23, 1902, one of the best beloved and most widely known citizens of the Queen City.

To Mr. and Mrs. Sewell have been born two children, Charles R. and Louis J. The former was born in January, 1898, and the latter in December, 1903.

Mr. Sewell is a justice of the peace and was road superintendent of Clinton county for fifteen years. He was the chief road officer in his township for three years and for nine years served on the school board. He was treasurer of the board for six years. Mr. Sewell is,an ardent Democrat. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Cuba, and the Knights of Pythias at Clarksville, Ohio.

Amos W. Lieurance

Amos W. Lieurance, a retired farmer of Clark township, Clinton county, Ohio, was born on January 25, 1840, the son of Alexander and Sallie Ann (Morris) Lieurance, the former of whom was born in Ashe county, North Carolina, June 16, 1816, and the latter of whom was born on February 10, 1807, in North Carolina.

Alexander Lieurance was the son of Peter, Jr., and Hannah (Philips) Lieurance, the former of whom was a native of Ashe county, North Carolina, born on January 9, 1795, and the latter of whom was born on November 4, 1794. 'They were married in North Carolina and came to Clinton county, Ohio, with their one son, Alexander, who was then six months old, in November, 1816, making the entire trip on horseback. They settled near Cuba and in 1824 Peter Lieurance, Jr., bought one hundred acres of land. He died on November 9, 1829, and his wife died on January 15, 1873.

Alexander Lieurance took the responsibility of clearing the farm and became a farmer and stock raiser. By his earnest and untiring industry he accumulated considerable property. Besides the home farm, he owned one hundred and eighty-seven acres elsewhere in Washington township, which he cleared and improved. He was a wellknown stock breeder and made a specialty of raising Poland China hogs. On June 16, 1836, Alexander Lieurance married Mrs. Sarah A. Morris, widow of William Morris " and the daughter of Eldridge and Sallie (Burnett) Bales. She had two children by her former marriage, John and Avery P. By her marriage to Mr. Lieurance, six children were born, of whom only three, Amos W., Wyatt H. and Jemima F., are living. The deceased children are Peter, Emma and Ann. Jemima F. married Riley Pond, Emma married J. M. Whinnery, Ann was the wife of Rev. Edward McHugh. Peter died at the age of eleven years. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Lieurance were devoted members of the Baptist church. Mr. Lieurance voted the Republican ticket. He died in June, 1898, and his wife died on October' 26, of the same year.

Amos W. Lieurance followed farming from the time of his young manhood until about twelve years ago, when he retired. His son-in-law now manages the home place. In 1862 Mr. Lieurance purchased. a farm of one hundred and thirty acres and, after clearing seventy acres, sold it. In 1869 he bought a farm of one hundred and seventytwo acres, upon which he paid five thousand dollars and for which he gave his note for ten thousand dollars. During his active life, he dealt extensively in hogs and horses and was accustomed to seil from fifteen hundred to twenty-five hundred dollars worth of hogs every year, as long ago as 1868. He paid sixty dollars for two Poland 'China pigs and in 1865 he sold two hogs fcr one hundred and sixty dollars. One weighed eight hundred and the other weighed eight hundred and five pounds. :

On October 16, 1862, Amos W. Lieurance was married to Ann Baker, the daughter of William and Sarah Baker, a native of Washington township, born on December 24, 1840.

Mr. and Mrs. Lieurance have been the parents of four children, namely: Chloe I., who was bern on September 18, 1863; Frank W., March 29, 1866; Olive Bstella, January 28, 1874; and Silas W., December 23, 1864, died on September 23, 1881. °

Mr. and Mrs. Lieurance are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Lieurance is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons. He is a Republican.

On March 25, 1893, Olive Estella Lieurance married James A. Graham, who was born in Vernon township, Clinton county, Ohio, in 1875, the son of Samuel and Margaret A. (Hunter) Graham, natives of Westboro and Martinsville, respectively. The paternal grandfather of Mr. Graham was Jonathan Graham and his maternal grandfather was James Hunter, who married Harriet A. Neal. Samuel Graham was educated in the public schools of Vernon township, where he owned one hundred and forty-four acres of land. He was a member of the "squirrel hunters" during the Civil War. The Grahams were originally members of the Friends church but James A. Graham is not a member of this church. Among the children born to Samuel and Margaret A. Graham were: Mary and Martha, twins; Charles, who died at the age of nineteen; Alice, deceased; B. Frank, of Herman, fllinois; James A.; and William R., who lives on the old home place.

James A. Graham was educated in Vernon township and has always followed farming. Mr. Graham now manages his father-in-law's farm of one hundred and seventyfour acres. He is an extensive breeder of hogs and horses, specializing in draft horses and Duroc-Jersey hogs. Mr. and Mrs. Graham are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. Graham is a member of the Martinsville Lodge, No. 391, Free and Accepted Masons. '

One of the remarkable members of the Lieurance family, of whom mention may be made was Peter Lieurance, not, however, the Peter Lieurance heretofore mentioned. He was a man of great physical power and lived to be one hundred and four years old. At one time he owned a farm in Washington township, upon which was located one of the early public cemeteries. Peter Lieurance died in the state of Illinois.

Rezin J. Lazenby

The Lazenby family is one of the fine old families of Washington township and was established in Clinton county by Joshua Lazenby, a native of the Old Dominion state. It was his father who served in the Revolutionary War and it is his musket which has been, handed down from generation to generation and is still in possession of the family, Rezin J. Lazenby, a representative of the third generation of the family in this county, is not only descended on his paternal side from a soldier in the Revolutionary War, but his father, Rezin Lazenby, Sr., was a soldier in the Mexican War. For several generations, the family have been farmers, and very successful ones.

Rezin J. Lazenby, Jr., a native of Washington township, Clinton county, Ohio, was born on September 11, 1856. His father, Rezin Lazenby, St., was a native of Highland county, Ohio, born on January 22, 1817. He was married on October 12, 1848, to Jerusha Kibby, who was born on April 8, 1828, and who was the daughter of Ephraim and Nancy, (Vandervort) Kibby.

The_paternal grandparents of Rezin J. Lazenby, Jr., Joshua and Ruth (Guthrie) Lazenby, moved from Highland county, Ohio, to Washington township, Clinton county, in 1818. Joshua Lazenby was born on September 11, 1775, in Virginia, and died on January 13, 1867. His father, Robert Lazenby, served as a teamster in the Revolutionary War, and the old flint-lock musket, which he carried, is still owned by the family. Joshua Lazenby's 'wife was born in 1781 in Maryland and died on February 18, 1868. They moved from Virginia to Highland county, Ohio, in 1817 and in 1818 to Clinton county. Here they lived on a farm the remainder: of their lives and owned, at the time of their death, five hundred acres of land in this county. Joshua and Ruth Lazenby had nine children, of whom Rezin, Sr., the father of Rezin J., was the seventh. The names of the children in the order of their births are: Henry, Robert, John C., Benjamin I., Penelope, Christopher, Rezin, Polly Margery and Joshua, Jr. The family were members of the Baptist church,

Educated in the common schools of Washington' township, Clinton county, Rezin Lazenby, Sr., engaged in farming early in life and followed this occupation all of his life, owning, at the time of his death, four hundred acres of land. He and his wife had five children: John E., who was a soldier in the Seventy-eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War and died with measles while serving in the army ; Henry, who died in infancy; Virginia A.; Laura L., and Rezin, Jr. The father of these children was a Republican in politics and a prominent and influential member of the Christian church, in which he served for a long period as trustee.

Born and reared in Clinton county, Rezin J. Lazenby received a good education in the public schools of Washington township and took up farming early in life. At the present time he owns two hundred and ten acres, comprising a splendid farm in Washington township.

Rezin J. Lazenby was married on November 15, 1877, to Laurabel Z. Smith, the daughter of John and Jane E. Smith, of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Lazenby are the parents of three children, Alta May, Ethel J. and Herman N. Alta May died after becoming a young woman. Herman N. married Olive Moore and lives on a part of Mr. Lazenby's farm. Ethel J. lives at home.

Lewis P. Whinery

Lewis P. Whinery, a native of Clark township, Clinton county, and a farmer by occupation, was born on the farm where he lives, March 1, 1854. He is a son of John V. and Nancy (Shields) Whinery, the latter of whom was a daughter of George and Ann (McDaniel) Shields. George Shields was a- native of Virginia, and he and his wife were the parents of six children, Ann, Jane, Nancy, Harriett, Rebecca and John.

Mr. Whinerf's maternal grandparents, George Shields and wife, came to Clinton county, Ohio, from the Old Dominion among the first families to settle here and located near Clarksville. They owned land near that village, but subsequently removed to the farm now owned by Lewis P. Whinery, their grandson, near Morrisville. George Shields was the owner of over five hundred acres of land, all of which was covered with virgin forest. Much of this land he cleared, and upon this farm he lived until his death.

John V. Whinery, the father of Lewis P. Whinery, was married three times, the subject of this review being a son by the third marriage. He was a school teacher, merchant and farmer, and at one time conducted a general store in Morrisville. He died on the farm: where his son, Lewis P., now lives. He was a director' of the Clinton county infirmary, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. By his third marriage there were three children.

Lewis P. Whinery received his elementary education in the common schools of Clinton county, Ohio, and also attended the high school at Martinsville, under the preceptorship of.Prof. Thomas J. Moon. After finishing school he took up farming ot the old home place and has always lived there. He owns eighty-five acres of land jn Clark township.

On February 22, 1883, Mr. Whinery was married to Clora Peale, a native of Highland county, Ohio, and a daughter of Alexander Peale. To this union fas been born one daughter, Verna. Mr. Whinery and his daugiter are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, while Mrs. Whinery is identified with the Christian church... Mr. Whinery is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons-at Martinsville, Ohio.

"Blessed is the man who has found his work." So says the sage. When this can be aptly applied to the life of a physician, it is eloquent of meaning, perhaps more so than of any other: professional man. It may well be doubted whether any other profession affords more opportunity for genuine service to humanity than does the daily life of the doctor, and yet, so accustomed have we become to his unselfiish ministry that it is taken as a matter of course. It is with grateful recognition of such service that the biographer includes in the history of Clinton county a brief record of the life of Dr. William Kelley Hale, who stands high in his profession. Doctor Hale spent his boyhood on a farm in Vernon township, having been born on June 30, 1884, and is, therefore, a native of this county.

Although one-.of the youngest of Clinton county's professional men, Doctor Hale is one of its most successful and best equipped physicians and surgeons. He has been absorbed in the study of materia medica ever since his introduction to the science and is:making-a brilliant success in its practical application, as well as in the science of surgery.

The subject of this sketch is the son of Frank H. and Ann (Kelley) Hale, both of whom are natives of this county, the father being a well-known farmer, and locally. famous as a fox-hunter. Among the early pioneers from North Carolina to this county in 1808 was Jacob Hale, the son of the progenitor of the family in America. The parental grandfather of our subject was William Hale, also an early settler in the county. AS evidence of his prominence, as well as of his popularity, it may be stated that he was an extensive landowner and at one time was county commissioner. Possessed of an active mind, he was a successful farmer and trader. This interesting man is now living in Wilmington at the age of eighty. Doctor Hale has a brother named Layton Hale, who is a well-known farmer and a skilled mechanician.

Dr. William Kelley Hale begun his education in the local schools, graduating from the Wilmington high school in 1904. Four years later he graduated with honors from the medical department of the $t. Louis University. In order to further perfect himself in his profession, after the regular college course, he spent one year practicing in the St. Louis Obstetric Dispensary, and another year in the city hospital, of the same city.

Returning to his native locality, Doctor Hale began his professional life in Wilmington, specializing in general surgery, in which he has become eminently skillful, his repute in this science being more than local. He maintains a private hospital, finely equipped with all the modern apparatus required by science, and so successful has he become that patients come for treatment from many parts of the state.

Doctor Hale, whose well-trained mind has always been attracted to science, proposes to make a life study of research work. His laboratory is equipped with special mechanical apparatus that enables him to delve into the mysteries of organic function and to work out, original ideas. He is also a student of biology, a science closely allied to the study of medicine. He has a remarkable collection of moths and -butterflies, which he has arranged with originality and care. Hach specimen is preserved upon an individual glass plate, and the whole collection housed in a closed cabinet especially constructed for the purpose. Doctor Hale also possesses a rare and interesting collection of snails.

Doctor Hale's beautiful home is one of the interesting landmarks of the city, and his equally attractive garage was erected by the hands of its owner during his leisure moments. Doctor Hale has a wife of unusual helpfulness in his important work of healing the sick. Mrs. Hale was formerly the assistant superintendent of nurses at the St. Louis city hospital. Before her marriage Mrs. Hale was Dessa C. Raydure, of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Hale's knowledge of medical Subjects, as well as her ready sympathy and womanly nature, has made her an invaluable aid to her busy husband, and it is only fair to saf that some, at least, of his success is due to this fact. Doctor

Doctor Hale is a member of the Medical Association of the state of Ohio, of the Clinton County Medical Society and of the St. Louis City Hospital Alumni Association, and a fellow of the American Medical Association of Chicago, in all of which organizations he is held: in high regard.and esteem.

The greatness of the physician consists in his proper blending of sympathy and skill, for it is certain that both are necessary. A doctor without sympathy is like a rose without perfume. It is thus in the uniting of heart. and brain in his daily work that the social ministry of the physician consists. To this high type does Doctor Hale belong.

Levi H. Custis

Everyone who lives in a state and enjoys its protection, must contribute through his work, directly or indirectly, to further the objects of the state as a community for the purposes of justice and civilization. Levi H. Custis, of Richland township, Clinton county, Ohio, who is.a kind and generous citizen now living retired, worthily fulfilled his obligations and duties, not only to the members of his family, but to the state as well. He is one of those men of honorable and humane impulses who have had so much to do with the agricultural development of Clinton county.

Levi H. Curtis was born in Union township, Clinton county, December 26, 1845, and is the son of Douglas W. and Penniah (Gustin) Custis, the former of whom was born in Scioto county, Ohio, December 20, 1811, and the latter of whom was the daughter of Elkany Gustin. They were married on November 19, 1835, and after their marriage, settled on land now owned by Alfred Sprague and daughter. Mrs. Douglas W. Custis died on September 27, 1881.

Seven children were born to Douglas W. and Penniah Custis: William, Isaiah, Anna M., Hannah J., Levi, Rhoda and Mary M. Of these children, Isaiah enlisted in 1862 in. Captain Giffin's company of the Seventy-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and, after serving a short time, became disabled and was discharged. Douglas W. Custis was a member of the Protestant Methodist church as was also his wife.

Douglas W. Custis was the son of William and' Elizabeth (Savage) Custis, who settled in Scioto county, Ohio, shortly before 1811. William Custis was twice married. By his first marriage to Elizabeth Savage, there were five children: Sallie, John, William, Harriet and Douglas W. The mother of these children died in 1812 and he married again, by which marriage there were three children: Nancy, Margaret and Littleton, who came to Clinton county with their mother. William Custis died in Scioto county about 1828 and Mrs. Custis, his second wife, died in 1863, at the age of ninety-seven years. During the Civil War, William Custis was what was called a "squirrel hunter."

The late Douglas Ww. Custis was educated in the common schools, and throughout his life was engaged in farming. He came to Clinton county on horseback and settled in Richland township on one hundred and eighteen acres. He was a man of honorable and humane impulses, a member of the Methodist Protestant church and of strong domestic inclination. He passed away in 1897.

Of the children born to Douglas and Penniah Custis, William, who was born on September 8, 1836, married Susan Drake and they had eight children, Charles, Franklin, Ida B., Anna, Lulu, Grace, James and Levi Dorcy. Isaiah was born on November 2, 1838, and married Eliza J. Acher and had two children, Oscar W. and Etta; Myra, March 18, 1840, married James Thompson and had four children, Sadie, Elva, Ora and Cora; Hannah, July 21, 1843, married A. J. Wilson and has no children; Rhoda, October 28, 1848, died young; Mary, who was born on February 18, 1851, married Thomas L. Huffman and had three children living, Lawrence, Leo and Mamie. Mary is dead.

Levi H. Custis was educated in the common schools, which he attended until the age of fifteen years, when he was taken ill. From the time he was eighteen until the time he was twenty-five, he was engaged in clerking in a store with his brother, William. In fact, he was associated with him altogether seven years in the mercantile business at New Antioch and Sabina. On June 8, 1871, he engaged in farming and' i_ the stock business and remained on the farm until 1910, when he retired and moved to Sabina, where he now lives. «

Mr. Custis now owns one hundred and fourteen acres of land, but at one time he gave to his children nearly five hundred acres. Aside from his interest in the farm property he is a heavy holder of securities in several industrial enterprises, especially in the Geiger-Jones Company of Canton, Ohio, the Ralston steel car works and other companies. d

Mrs. Levi H. Custis, before her marriage, was Elizabeth Jane Vanniman, born in Greene county, Ohio, February 8, 1850, and who is the daughter of Elias and Eva (Early) Vanniman, who were farmers in Greene county until 1865, when they came to Clinton county. Here they became large landowners, owning approximately between five and six hundred acres in this county. They were proininent people in the community where they lived and active in the Methodist Protestant church.

Mr. and Mrs. Custis have been the parents of five children: Lillian, Edna, Dwight L., Heber W. and Maude. Of these children, Lillian married Clark Haines, of Warren county, Ohio, and has six children, Lloyd, Mildred, Ruth, Harold and Donald, twins, and Raymond, deceased. Edna married Irving Peelle, of Wilmington, and has one son, Miles. Dwight married Nettie Hughes and has one child, Miriam. They reside at Richwood, Ohio, where he is a minister in the Methodist Protestant church. Heber W., who lives on the home plaee, married Hazel Reed and they have two children, Jean nad Freda Ellen.

Mr.. and Mrs. Custis are members of the Methodist Protestant church and are especially interested in the Sunday school. Mr. Curtis has been superintendent of the Sunday school and class leader in the church. In fact, the entire family are interested in religious work. Fraternally, Levi H. Custis is a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 324, Sabina, Ohio,

Hoy Moore Woodmanser

The sedulous cultivation of a "sweet tooth' on the part of the present generation has created a distinct industry, an industry that no doubt would have Seemed an amazing outcropping of civilization to our pioneer forefathers, but which to the present generation has become one of the essential factors of life, being taken as much for granted as are the modern developments of those earlier industries which had to do with providing for the mere primitive necessities of mankind. The confectioner and the icecream manufacturer haye come to be recognized as very necessary cogs in the complex machinery of modern life, and as such occupy a quite important position in the industrial life of the nation. In this section of the state the development of the ice-crenm trade has been very rapid in recent years, and no one factor has contributed more largely to this rapid development than the gentleman whose name the reader noted above, H. M. Woodmansee, the popular purveyor and manufacturer of ice cream at Wilmington, this county.

Hoy Moore Woodmansee was born in the pleasant village of New Antioch, Clinton county, Ohio, on March 26, 1870, son of Joseph and Sarah Elizabeth (Moore) Woodmansee, the former of whom was born on a farm in Green township, this county, in 1841, and died in 1908, and the latter of whom was born in Highland county, this state, in 1851.

Green township, this county, son of one of the earliest settlers in that section of the county, a native of Scotland, who located in the Snow Hill neighborhood and became one of the most influential of the early settlers of Green township. Reuben Woodmansee became a substantial farmer in that neighborhood, being the owner of about three hundred acres of choice land, and was regarded as one of the leaders of the community. He and his wife, the latter of whom was a Spears, were members of the Christian church, devoutly rearing their children in the faith of that communion, and were active in all good works thereabout. Their son, Joseph, father of the immediate subject of this biographical sketch, was reared on the home farm, receiving such education as the schools of that period provided. He was but twenty years of age when the Civil-War broke out, but he enlisted in the Union army and served his country valiantly for a period of three years. Upon returning from the service, he opened a general store in the village of New Antioch, which he conducted for seven years, at the end of which time he sold his store.and became a locomotive engineer in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, later transferring his services to the Norfolk & Western Railroad, making his home in Columbus, Ohio, from the year 1884 until the time of nis death. Joseph Woodmansee, as a boy, learned surveying in Cincinnati, and during the years in which he was engaged in business at New Antioch often was called on to run the lines in connection with property divisions in this county.

Shortly after returning from the war, Joseph Woodmansee was united in marriage to Sarah Hlizabeth Moore, who was born in Highland county, this state, daughter, of the Rev. William D. and Sarah Mooré, both of whom were born near Brushcreek, in Adams county, this state. Rev. William D. Moore was for many years one of the best-known ministers of the Christian church in this section of the state. He was a man of liberal education and came to this county in his young manhood to serve as principal of the schools of New Vienna. During this form of service, his Sundays were devoted to the preaching of the Word to the local congregation of the people of his faith, and he presently gave up teaching, thereafter devoting his whole time to the ministry, becoming a man of large influence in his neighborhood. Rey. William D. Moore was a tall man, of dignified and courtly bearing, known widely throughout this whole region. He lived to the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. His wife died in 1900, at the age of seventy-two years.

To Joseph and Sarah Elizabeth (Moore) Woodmansee were born four children, all sons, and all of whom are still living, namely: William B., who is a railway telegrapher at Greenfield, Ohio; Hoy Moore, the immediate subject of this biographical sketch; Oren, a confectioner and wholesale dealer in ice cream, living at Hillsboro, Ohio, and Charles D., who occupies an important position with the Standard Oil Company, with headquarters at Des Moines, Iowa.

Hoy Moore Woodmansee was reared at New Antioch, this county, receiving his early education in the public schools of that village, completing his common-school education in the schools of Columbus, supplementing the same by a course in a business college in the latter city. Upon leaving school he entered the employ of an extensive dealer in. confectionery at Columbus, and for ten years was thus engaged, during which time he thoroughly familiarized himself with all departments of the business. In 1893 Mr. Woodmansee returned to Clinton county, Jocating at Wilmington, where he was given charge of the confectionery department of the J. P. Cole restaurant. For the next six years he was thus employed, and then he went to Sabina, this county, where, for one year, he conducted a restaurant. In 1901 he sold this business and returned to Wilmington, where he erected a plant for the manufacture of ice cream and has ever since that time been thus engaged, the business having proved very successful, the fame of the Woodmansee ice creams having extended far beyond the confines of this county. In 1912, Mr. Woodmansee was compelled to enlarge his plant, on account of the rapidly growing demand for his products, and he erected a more extensive factory, changing his location to a pleasant spot in the Northwood addition of Wilmington, at the same time erecting a fine dwelling house there, and is meeting with much success.

On December 19, 1897, Hoy Moore Woodmansee was united in marriage to Mary A. Starbuck, who was born in Wilmington, this county, daughter of Arden and Louise (Pigeon) Starbuck, the former of whom is a native of this county and the latter of whom was born in North Carolina, daughter of Charles and Catherine Pigeon, who came to this county years ago and settled in Union township, where they became infiuential citizens. Mr. and Mrs. Starbuck both are still living on the old Starbuck place in Union township.

Mr. and Mrs. Woodmansee are members of the Christian church at Wilmington, and take an active part in the good works of that congregation. They have hosts of friends in and about Wilmington and are very popular in the circle of their acquaintances.

John Sherman Antram

John Sherman Antram, who is descended from an old family of this. county and who is a prominent farmer and dairyman of Union township, was born on September 1, 1879, in Liberty township, Clinton county, Ohio, the son of Arthur D. and Margaret (Welsh) Antram, the former of whom, born. on the farm where his widow now lives in Union township, March 27, 1855, was accidentally killed on August 10, 1911, in a runaway. He was the son of John M. and Catherine (Babb) Antram, the former of whom, born in Clinton county, June 19, 1825, is still living at the home of his son, Frank William, and the latter of whom, born on a farm in Union township, July 21, 1827, died on June 24, 1898. John M. Antram was the son of Hiram and Sarah L. (Whitson) Antram, the former born on January 29, 1798, in Frederick county, Virginia, and the latter, born in 1800, in Center county, Pennsylvania, died in 1872. In 1817 Hiram Antram came to Clinton county with his parents, John and Ann (Hackney) Antram, who settled in Union township. Sarah L. Whitson came to Ohio in 1816, first locating in Madison county, and came to Clinton county in 1817. Hiram Antram's family came from Ireland to Virginia, the family being of Scotch-Irish descent. Catherine Babb was the daughter of Azel and Hannah (Hollingsworth) Babb, the former of whom was the son of Henry and Blizabeth (Walker) Babb. Henry Babb came to this county in 1806 from Frederick county, Virginia, and settled north of the court house at Wilmington. His wife's father, Mordecai Walker, purchased one thousand acres of land from Thomas Posey in 1805 and had given each of his four children portions of that estate. Henry Babb was one of the early commissioners of this county.

The late Arthur D. Antram, father of John Sherman Antram, received a good education from the public school at Antrams Corners and at Wilmington College and became a well-known farmer of this county. On February 2, 1878, he was married to Margaret Welsh, who was probably born in Ireland and who came to the United States with her parents when a baby. She was born on December 25, 1850, and was reared by George and Lydia Bailey, now both deceased, who lived in Liberty township, this county. Mrs. Antram had a half-sister, Catherine, who married Samuel Brann, of Wilmington. To Arthur D. Antram and wife three children were born, namely: John Sherman, the subject of this sketch; Ralph, born on March 7, 1881, who operates the home farm for his mother, and Mary C., December 27, 1883, who attended Wilmington College and has taught school for five years.

John Sherman Antram was a mere lad when his parents moved from Liberty township to Union township. He attended the public school at Antrams Corners, on the Xenia pike, in Union township, and later was a student at Wilmington College. Being the eldest son in the family, he was his father's mainstay on the farm and after he grew up, he and his brother and father all worked together on the farm and shared in its profits. Some time before his death, the father purchased the Anthony Curl place of fifty-four and one quarter acres, where John S. Antram now lives. It is situated on the Xenia pike in Union township and it was this farm which Mr. Antram received as his share of the estate at the time of his father's death. Mr. Antram keeps a large herd of registered Jersey cattle and sells milk in wholesale quantities.

On October 8, 1907, John S. Antram was married to Maud South, who was born at Watseka, Illinois, the daughter of Alexander and Martha South, the former of whom died in December, 1906, and the latter of whom lives at Watseka, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Antram have no children.

John S. Antram is a Republican and hee served as school director and is especially interested in educational affairs. He holds a birthright in the Dover meeting of the Society of Friends and takes a more or less active part in the affairs of that congregation. He is a good farmer and a good citizen.

John P. Langdon

John P. Langdon, who has served in various official capacities in the political life. of Clinton county, as county commissioner, township trustee and a member of the board of education, is one of the most public-spirited citizens of Richland township.

John P. Langdon was born on February 6, 1859, at Pleasant Ridge, Hamilton county, Ohio, the son of Samuel and Martha J. (Lyon) Langdon, the former of whom was born on April 16, 1823, on Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, and the latter born on January 25, 1829, at the same place. Martha J. Lyon was the daughter of James C. and Maria (Carder) Lyon, the former of whom, a. native of Virginia, was pastor of the old Duck Creek Baptist church of Cincinnati for forty years. His father located on Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, buying the land there for seventeen and one-half cents an acre. This land remained in the family until the bulk of it was sold for five hundred dollars an acre. The last eight acres sold for 'thirty thousand dollars. James C. and Maria Lyon had four children, Joanna, James, Mary and Martha, the mother of John P. Langdon.

The paternal grandfather of Mr. Langdon was Mark Langdon, a native of England, who came to America in 1816, locating on what is now East Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, where he lived the remainder of his life. He and his wife had five children, Joseph, Samuel, William, John and Elizabeth, all of whom are deceased.

Samuel Langdon, the father of John P., was educated in the common schools. He and his wife had four children, Frank, Mary, John P. and Fannie. Frank resides at Riverside, California. Mary and Fannie are living with their mother on Norwood Heights, Cincinnati. Samuel Langdon took a great interest in politics and was a wellknown farmer of Pleasant Ridge, Hamilton county. He owned one hundred acres of land, which had been given to him and which sold on March 27, 1912, to the LaSantiville Country Club, of Cincinnati.

John P. Langdon was educated in the common schools of Cincinnati and also in the Cincinnati high school, where he spent two years. After completing his education, he returned to the farm and helped his father until the latter's death, which occurred on January 9, 1882. On March 7, 1887, Mr. Langdon moved to Clinton county and purchased one hundred and twenty-nine acres at the edge of Sabina, where he is living at the present time. He makes a specialty of raising Percheron horses and Duroc-Jersey hogs.

John P. Langdon was married on December 30, 1880, to Florence Cole, the daughter of Dr. P. CG. Cole, of Sabina, who was a sergeant in the Union army during the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. Langdon have been the parents of five children, Elmer C., Gordon P., Edith May, Morris C. and Clara E.

From 1909 until 1913, Mr. Langdon, as a Republican, was a commissioner of Clinton county. He was trustee for nine years, from 1890 until 1899. He has also been a member of the Sabina board of education for some time. The Langdon family live on their farm in Richland township just at the east edge of Sabina.

Who can estimate properly, or convincingly, the influence for good upon the life of a community wielded by the thoughtful, conscientious practicing physician? What record, save that of the great Recording Angel, ever will contain a complete transcript of the unselfish labors of the healer who goes about his business in behalf of ailing humanity, all uncomplainingly, patiently, devotedly and sincerely giving himself; the strength of his hand, of his mind and of his heart, to all who call for such relief of bodily suffering. A mere formal historical and biographical work, of this character, is highly informative and instructive, and to future generations of this county this volume will be held as a priceless heritage of the past; but there is very much the future generations ought to know of the doings of their forbears that cannot be put down in cold letters and figures on a printed page. Among these phases of commercial life that only can be recorded in the hearts of men here below, that relating to the unselfish labors of the earnestly consecrated physician properly may be considered as of paramount importance. While no attempt shall be made to convey a further message of sentiment in that connection on this page, it is but proper that, in a work of this nature. something of the life's record of the well-known and popular physician whose name forms the caption of this sketch, shall here be presented for the information of those generations yet to come who will want to know all that is obtainable of the history of the devoted men and women who wrought, giving the best that was in them, in order that richer material blessings, than they have ever known, might descend upon those who were to follow.

George W. Wire was born on a farm near the city of Princeton, in Gibson county, Indiana, on October 9, 1852, son of John and Lieuvica (Pond) Wire, the former of whom was a native of Maryland, born in 1801, who died in 1870, and the latter of whom was born in Clinton county, Ohio, in 1807, and died in 1857.

John Wire, whose parents were of German descent, was reared on a farm in Maryland and upon reaching manhood's estate emigrated to Ohio, locating for a time in this county, where he married Lieuvica Pond, whose parents were among the very earliest settlers of this part of the state, and moved by wagon to Gibson county, Indiana, where he bought a farm near the city of Princeton, on which he spent the remainder of his life, becoming a prosperous and influential resident of that community.

To John and Lieuvica (Pond) Wire were born eleven children, namely: Peter, a lieutenant in the Union army during the Civil War, was shot and slain while attempting to escape after having been captured by the enemy; John, deceased; Elizabeth, who married William McCleary, both of whom now are dead; Mahala, with her husband, also is dead; Matilda, deceased; Andrew, a school teacher, who enlisted in the Union army for service during the Civil War and was killed during the storming of Ft. Donelson; Sarah, deceased; Lieuvica, deceased; William B., a former prominent lumber dealer, now deceased; Thomas, who also was engaged in the lumber business, deceased; and George W., the subject of this sketch, he being not only the youngest of this notable family, but now the sole survivor.

George W. Wire was bereaved of his mother when eight years of age. His father married again, but to this second union there was no issue. Upon completing the course in the publie schools of Gibson county, young Wire entered DePauw University at Greeneastle, Indiana, where he remained two years, at the end of which time he entered the office of Dr. S. E. Munford, at Princeton, Indiana, for the purpose of studying medicine. After two years spent under this admirable preceptor, he entered Miami Medical GCollege at Cincinnati, from which excellent old institution he was graduated in 1876, with the full honors of his degree. Upon receiving his.diploma, Doctor Wire immediately located in Wilmingtén, this county, where he ever since has been successfully engaged in the practice of his chosen profession, having gained in that time a reputation as a physician that extends far beyond the confines of this county.

Upon locating in Wilmington, Doctor Wire formed a partnership with Dr. J. R. Walker, which continued most harmoniously and effectively until the latter's death in May, 1877. Not only has Doctor Wire been one of the most active practicing physicians in this part of the state, but he has been active in public affairs and during the past ten years has served in the Wilmington city council, being elected to his seat therein on the Republican ticket, his services in that connection having been of large value to the community. In matters affecting the public health, Doctor 'Wire's services in his official capacity have been of particular value, and for the past four years he has carried the additional official obligation of serving in the capacity of public health officer of the city of Wilmington. In a business way, he has not been inactive, and for years has been a member of the directorate of the Clinton County National Bank at Wilmington. In his professional capacity, Doctor Wire is widely known throughout this part of Qhio. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the Ohio State Medical Society and the Clinton County Medical Society, in all of which bodies he takes an active and prominent part.

On January 2, 1879, Dr. George W. Wire was united in marriage to Mary E. Lacy, who was born in Union township, this county, daughter of Elijah and Sarah Jane Lacy, the former of whom was also a native of this county, who lived to the age of seventytwo. Mrs. Wire died on February 25, 1914, and was widely mourned, for her life had been full of good works, she having in all things been a competent helpmeet to her husband, the position of a physician's wife often carrying trying duties, to all of which she ever proved equal.

To Dr. George W. and. Mary E. (Lacy) Wire but one child was born, a son, George L., who was born on March 29, 1881, who now is engaged in the practice of law in Chicago. George L. Wire was graduated from Harvard University in 1904, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and in 1907 was graduated from the Harvard Law School, after which he entered practice in Chicago and has been very successful. He married Alma L. Biklen, of Burlington, Iowa, a graduate of Wellesley College, to which union one child has been born, a daughter, Louise.

Doctor Wire was married, secondly, June 23, 1915, to Jennie Ethel Brown, a native of Union township and a graduate of Wilmington College, a daughter of Jasper and Dora Brown, an old family of this county, a teacher in the Wilmington schools.

Henry Venneman

Henry Venneman, who is one of the most prosperous farmers of Richland township, Clinton county, Ohio, is one of the most widely-read and best-informed men of this township. Although he never attended an American school, he speaks the English language without accent. He is today one of the wealthiest men of his community.

Henry Venneman was born on January 12, 1839, in Hanover, Germany, the son of John Henry and Mary (Wellinghoof) Ventieman, the former of whom died about twelve years ago. They were farmers by occupation and members of the Catholic church. They spent their entire lives in their native Jand. They were the parents of four children, Herman, Ferdinand. Henry and Frank. Of these children, Herman came to America, served in the Civil War about three years and died in Cincinnati. Ferdinand died in Germany. Frank also spent his life in Germany and was able to escape military service.

The subject of this sketch, received a good education in the schools of his native land, which he attended until fifteen years old. At the age of fifteen, Henry Venneman landed in Baltimore, having come to America on a sailing vessel, which took forty-nine days to make the trip. After stopping a brief time in Baltimore, he went on to Cincinnati

Henry Venneman has been twice married, first to Jane Clifton, and after her death, he was married, secondly, to Sophia Pavey, who was born on July 17, 1842, the daughter of William and Anna (Johnson) Pavey. The latter was the first wife of William Pavey.

William Pavey was a native of Highland county, Ohio, and a farmer in that county, where he owned about eight hundred acres of land. By his first wife he had ten children. namely: Isaac; William; Mary, deceased; George; John, deceased; Henry, who served in the Forty-eighth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the Civil War; Sophia ; Elizabeth; James, who was a soldier in the Second Ohio Regiment, Heavy Artillery; and Eliza. The second wife of William Pavey, who was Jerdena Kirby, bore him four children, Charles, Thomas, Kitora and Gilbert. Isaac Pavey, who was Mrs. Venneman's paternal grandfather, was a farmer and minister in the Methodist Episcopal church.

After his marriage, Henry Venneman moved to Clinton county, Ohio, and lived on a farm in Richland township. He owned in all three hundred and eighty-eight acres of land, situated in Highland and Clinton counties. In 1906 Mr. and Mrs. Venneman moved to Sabina, where they have since lived retired. Mr. Venneman was a soldier in the Civil War, having served in Company B, Second Ohio Regiment, Heavy Artillery, for a period of two years, one and one-half months. He and his good wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Venneman owns stock in the First National Bank, in the Geiger & Jones Company, which operates the rolling-mill at Kenton, Ohio, and also heavy holdings in school and municipal bonds, issued prior to 1913.

Mr. Venneman is a man of democratic tastes and has long been popular in the community where he has lived and where he is so well known. Possessed of honorable and humane impulses, his large success in life is due primarily, to his native, German thrift.

John S. Hummel

John S. Hummel, who is a well-known publisher and now postmaster of Wilmington, Clinton county, Ohio, was born on March 28, 1854, at Strasburg, Lancaster county, Penn-

Joshua Hummel worked on a railroad until 1860, when he came to Athens county, Ohio, and took up farming. He remained here for six years, and then moved to Lancaster, Ohio, where he died in 1867. He and his wife were the parents of six children, Ashmore P., of Toledo, Ohio; Anna T., deceased: Salome Louise, deceased; John S., the subject of this sketch; Charles F., deceased, and Carrie V., of Lancaster, Ohio.

John S. Hummel received his education in the common and parochial schools of Lancaster, Ohio, and, when fourteen years of age, went into the office of the Lancaster Gazette to learn the trade of a printer. He completed his apprenticeship in four years, and then went to Middletown, Ohio, where he worked for one and one-half years for the Brock Brothers, who had the only printing office in the town. Obtaining a position on the Orescent, of Frankfort, Indiana, he remained here for seven months, going from there to Columbus, Ohio, where he was employed as a compositor on the State Journal. In the spring of 1879 he went to Delaware, Ohio, where he took up his duties as foreman in the composing room on the Herald, of which paper he later became business manager and associate editor. Here he remained for five years, when he went to Urbana, Ohio, being associated with James K. Newcomer in the publication of the Champaign County Democrat, a prominent weekly. Three years were spent at this work, when he went to Columbus and remained one winter, and spent the following summer in Hillsboro. In October, 1883, he came to Wilmington and purchased the Democrat from James K. Newcomer, the same man with whom he had been, associated at Urbana. At the time of the purchase of the newspaper plant it was necessary for him to buy on credit, but by hard work. he soon had the debt paid off, and placed the business on a substantial basis.

On September 15, 1886, Mr. Hummel was married to Alice Brockman, a native of, Clinton: county, and~to them have been 'born two children, Anna M., who assists her father in the newspaper office and: Karl B., who is a graduate of Wilmington College.

Politically, Mr. Hummel is a Democrat, and on July 4, 1914, was appointed by President Wiison to the position of postmaster of Wilmington, the first public office he has ever held. Mr. and Mrs. Hummel are members of the Presbyterian church and have brought up their children in that faith.