Coshocton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1909 (part 10 of 19)

Michael Mortine pursued his studies in the common schools, wherein he mastered the ordinary branches of learning. He spent the period of his boyhood and youth iri assisting his father in the work of the home farm and remained with him until his death. He then took charge of the homestead farm, on which he has made his home to the present time. He now owns one hundred and forty acres on section 13 Linton township, on which he has made 'many improvements. He is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and each year gathers rich crops as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields.

Mr. Mortine was married in 1864 to Miss Elizabeth Lanah, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, October 10, 1840, and who proved to bim a valuable helpmate. She was one of a family of four children and by her marriage became the mother of ten children, as follows: Mary K., the wife of Lewis F. Summers, of Lafayette township; Jacob A., who makes his home in Illinois; Samuel, deceased; Sarah Catharine, the wife of J. T. Powelson, of Coshocton county; Martha, the wife of A. J. Deer, also of this county; Lucinda, at home; George N.,'a resident of Illinois; Seth, who has departed this life; and Elizabeth and Alford, also under the parental roof.

Mr. Mortine gives his support to the republican party. He has served as township trustee for several years and for two years has been a member or the school board. He is a man who has made good use of. his opportunities and has forged his way to the front. He has encountered obstacles and difficulties, but has overcome these by honorable and determined effort, and is today numbered among the substantial and honored citizens of Coshocton county.

Francis W. Powell

In the death of Francis W. Powell, which occurred on October 11, 1899, Coshocton county lost one of her oldest and most respected citizens, whose entire life had been spent within her borders and his energies had been expended in the promotion of her moral and material growth and development. He was born in Adams township, January 30, 1828, the son of Thomas J. and Henrietta (Howells) Powell, both of whom were natives of England, where they continued to reside for some years after their marriage. The birth of the father occurred on August 18, 1777, while his wife was born on October 8, 1783. The paternal grandfather was steward to Lord Oxford, while the maternal grandfather was extensively engaged in the man- ufacture of woolen goods in England and was induced to come to the United States and establish a factory in New England by General Washington. Doubtless his settlement in this country was instrumental in causing the parents of our subject to come to America, which they did in the year 1817. They were prosperous in their native land, where the father followed the mercantile business for a few years, and on coming to the United States he brought a part of his stock of goods with him and about thirty thousand dollars. He landed at Richmond, Virginia, where he sold his goods and rented a plantation, together with the slaves which constituted a part of the property, which was located on the James river seven miles below Richmond. The plantation was the property of a-Mrs. Higgenbottom, whose daughter was the wife of one of the Randolphs, of the well known Randolph family of Revolutionary fame, who was on terms of social intimacy with the Powell family. Here the family lived extravagantly with small returns from the plantation and after a residence of thirteen months the father gave up his lease of the place, bade the slaves, whom he had treated with the same consideration that he had given his servants in England, an affecting farewell and removed to Steubenville, Ohio, having left but a small portion' of the means which he had brought with him to America the year before. He rented a farm on the Mingo bottoms in Jefferson county and hired a man to teach him to farm. While there a disastrous fire consumed a large portion of what the family had left and after this misfortune he thought of taking his family to Canada, but a man by the name of Campbell urged him to take a seven years' lease on a farm which he owned in Adams township, Coshocton county, and with that possibility in view he paid a visit to that section. Our readers will smile on' reading his report to his family on his return, which was to the effect that the people there were half naked, that some ran wild in the woods, and that they would consequently not have very desirable neighbors. On the other hand, when the family did arrive in their midst and settled on a wooded, unimproved farm, the neighbors expressed their fears that the English family would starve. Nevertheless they took up their abode there in the spring of 1820 and stopped for a while with Judge Evans, of Oxford township, who extended to them true pioneer hospitality, and the Judge and _his boys helped them to get their cattle and things across the river, which was swollen with the spring freshets. They reached the Campbell farm in safety and in time for the spring work. The cabin on their new home had the distinction of being the first one built in Adams township, it having been erected by a Mr. Colwell. The door was so low that they had to stoop to enter it. The fine library that the father had brought with him to Steubenville he traded for a flock of sheep, while Mrs. Powell exchanged her chinaware for necessdries and gave a neighbor woman a fine silk shawl to teach her how to milk. At the expiration of his seven years' lease of the Campbell farm Mr. Powell was in even more straitened circumstances than when he first came to the county. He then took a contract on the Ohio canal and rented a farm in Jefferson county, Ohio, where he desired to locate, as there his family could enjoy better educational facilities, but they had become attached to Coshocton county and prevailed on him to remain here. He went to England that summer and sold the interest in a life estate which his eldest son, Thomas H., had in some land there, with the proceeds of which he returned to Coshocton county and purchased ten hundred and eighty acres of land in Adams township. He met with better success on his own land and became wealthy, living retired in Bakersville in his declining years, where his death occurred in August, 1859, while his wife passed away - October 8, 1864. They were the parents of twelve children, only one of whom is now living, Henry C., a sketch of whose life appears elsewhere in this edition.

Francis W. Powell was reared to manhood in the midst of pioneer environments and contributed his youthful energies to the aid of his father in the unaccustomed work which he had undertaken in the country of his adoption. On October 13, 1852, he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Leach, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, June 29, 1826, the daughter of Archibald and Sarah (Ferguson) Leach. Her father was born in Pennsylvania in 1793, while the birth of her mother occurred in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1805. They became the parents of seven children, of whom three are living, namely: Margaret, the widow of our subject; Mary, the widow of J. A. Walters, of Chicago; and Sarah, the wife of William C. Hawk, of Bakersville. The mother passed away in 1855, while the father survived her for one year, his death occurring in 1856.

Following their marriage the young couple started life together on the old farm in Adams township, which was at that time owned by the father of our subject and on which he erected, some sixty years ago, an old fashioned, one-story, substantial residence. During slavery days it was a station on the old underground railroad, and through its medium probably thousands of negroes have been aided in their escape to the north. Francis W. Powell greatly sympathized with these unfortunates and aided hundreds in their efforts to escape to freedom. Mrs. Powell can remember having as high as a dozen at one time concealed, waiting for the friendly darkness to take them on to the next station near Keene in Keene township. The farm that they at first rented they eventually acquired the ownership of, and our subject became a successful, prosperous citizen, at one time owning seven hundred acres of land. He provided generously for his children, of whom there were four, namely: Caroline T., the wife of Melville Graham, of Winfield, Kansas; John F., who resides in Adams township; Francis, of West Lafayette; and Henrietta, who resides at home with her mother.

In 1890 Mr. Powell retired from farm life and went to West Lafayette to live, but in 1897 he returned to the farm and remained there until the time of his death, two years later. Politically, he was a stanch republican, and 'he was also a strong temperance man. Because of his prominence he was called upon at sundry times to fill various township offices and through actual experience he became familiar with the duties of each and every one of them in the course of time. He was a lifelong member of the Methodist Episcopal church and a generous contributor to its support. He was highly esteemed and respected by all who knew him and now, "Life's fitful fever o'er, he rests at last." Mrs, Powell has maintained her residence in the old home, fraught with memories of the past, and now, in her eighty-second year, is sustained by an unfaltering trust in the Providence which has guided her thus far on life's journey and is remarkably well preserved for one of her years. Like her husband, she is a faithful and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Thomas 8. Humrickhouse

Thomas S. Humrickhouse, whose intense and well directed energy constitutes a forceful factor in- the successful management of the interests of the Coshocton Provision Company, is now the treasurer and general manager of that concern. His sound judgment has made his opinions of weight in determining the policy of the house. The secret of his success is not found in any fortunate combination of circumstances, but in his unfaltering diligence and perseverance. A native of Ohio he was born in Muskingum county, December 24, 1857, a son of John and Rose Ann (Hurshman) Humrickhouse. He was fifteen years of age when he became a resident of Coshocton county and one year later he removed to Boydton, Virginia, where he attained his majority. In 1880, however, he returned to Coshocton and for five years was engaged in the retail dry-goods business. He then went to Columbus, Ohio, and entered the employ of the Sheldon Dry Goods Company, which he represented as a traveling salesman for eighteen years. He possesses a genial, courteous manner that has made him popular with the many patrons that he secured, while his large sales and thorough reliability place him with the leading and valued representatives of the house.

In 1903 Mr. Humrickhouse again became a resident of Coshocton county and for three years was engaged in farming. He is still the owner of five hundred acres of valuable land in Franklin township, four miles south of Coshocton and constituting one of the most desirable farms of the county. In September, 1906, he became associated with the Coshocton Cold , Storage Company, which was afterward incorporated under the style of the Coshocton Ice & Provision Company. Later the business was divided and incorporated into two separate companies, the one called the Coshocton Ice Company and the other the Coshocton Provision Company. Mr. Humrickhouse now devotes his entire attention to the latter concern, of which he is the treasurer and general manager, and which under his guidance has become a profitable enterprise of the city and a factor in its commercial activity.

In 1896 Mr. Humrickhouse was married to Miss L. Viola Robinson, of Franklin township, this county. They have two sons, Ralph R., born October 9, 1898, and Thomas S:, born October 15, 1900. In social circles they are well known and the generous and attractive hospitality of their own home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends. Mr. Humrickhouse is a republican in his political views, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. While he possesses a commendable ambition to achieve success in the business world, it has not been alone the aim for which he has striven. He has found time for other interests, especially those relating to the general welfare, and his labors are considered a valuable asset in public progress.

Clyde R. Kitsmiller, M.D.

In the history of the medical profession of Coshocton county Dr. Clyde R. Kitsmiller deserves mention, for his thorough preparation and native talents have made him an able physician and one who is conscientious and faithful in the performance of his professional duties. Widely known, his life record cannot fail to interest many of the readers of this volume.

He was born in Franklin county, Ohio, March 5, 1872, and is a son of William and Estella (Carpenter) Kitsmiller, who were also natives of Franklin county. The father died in the year 1880, but the mother is still living and makes her home in the county of her nativity. They were the parents of four children, one of whom died in infancy, while Robert V. and Blanch D. are also deceased. ,

Dr. Kitsmiller, of this review, is the only surviving member of the family. He was the second in order of birth and remained at home until sixteen years of age, at which time he began teaching school. He had displayed special aptitude in his studies in his own school days and thus proved a capable instructor during the four years which he. devoted to educational work. He then began qualifying for the profession of which he is now a representative. He studied medicine in the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, from which he was graduated in 1894, at the age of twenty-two years. He then located for practice in Carroll, Ohio, where he remained for two years, after which he removed to Bakersville, and there engaged in practice for three and a half years. Since 1900 he has represented the medical fraternity at Fresno and has secured a good practice here, for he has given proof of his ability to cope with the complex problems that continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and prolong life. He reads broadly along medical and surgical lines and is thus constantly promoting his efficiency, for he correctly applies his acquired knowledge to the needs of those to whom he ministers.

In the 24th of September, 1894, Dr. Kitsmiller was married to Miss Ada B. Blagg, who was born in Jackson county, Ohio, in 1875, and is a daughter of Charles and Alice (Farrar) Blagg. Her father was born in Gallia county, Ohio, and the mother's birth occurred in Jackson county, this state. Her mother died in 1891, but Mr. Blagg still makes his home in Jackson county. Their family numbered three children, of whom Mrs. Kitsmiller is the second in order of birth, the others being William H., now living in Jackson county; and. L. W., who makes his home in Harvey, Washington. Dr. and Mrs. Kitsmiller have one child, Verle R., born in June, 1895.

In his political views Dr. Kitsmiller is a democrat and on that ticket has oeen elected to several local offices. He is now serving as township treasurer and also as health officer and for eight years has been a member of the board of education, in which connection he has done effective service in behalf of the work of public instruction, for he is'a devoted and firm friend of the public schools. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 181, at Stone Creek, and has also taken three degrees in the Masonic lodge at West Lafayette. He likewise belongs to the Modern Woodmen camp at Fresno and both he and his wife hold membership with the Royal Neighbors. He owns an office here and also a fine residence, which he and his family occupy. They are well known in social circles and enjoy in large measure the friendship and kindly regard of those with whom they have been brought in contact.

Levi Elben

Levi Elben, who owns and operates fifty-six acres of land situated in Jetferson township, Coshocton county, is one of the few remaining veterans of the Civil war. He is a native of the Buckeye state, born on a farm in Rocky Fork township, Licking county, March 25, 1844, a son of William and Ruth Ann (Fowler) Elben, the former likewise a native of Licking county. His father was born in England. The mother was also born in Ohio and was of Scotch descent. William Elben followed the trades of plasterer and stonemason and also engaged in farming. His death occurred at Utica, Licking county, Ohio. His family numbered nine children, five sons and four daughters: John, George, Levi, Rufus, Willis, Mary, Amanda, Annabel and Caroline.

Levi Elben, whose name introduces this review, spent his boyhood and youth in his native county and acquired his education in the common schools. When a youth of seventeen years he enlisted for service in the Civil war, becoming a member of company ©, Sixty-sixth Ohio, Volunteer Infantry, joining the same October 8, 1851. He enlisted for three years' service. He took part in the battle of Chancellorsville, May 1, 1868, and was taken prisoner, being detained in Libby prison. He was later taken to Lincoln hospital in Washington, D. C., and upon the expiration of his term of service he reenlisted as a member of Company Sixty-ninth, Second Battalion, Invalid Corps, and served for one year as an attendant in the hospital. At the end of that time he was discharged on account of disability.

After his return from the war Mr. Elben engaged in farming pursuits and for the past thirty years has made his home on his present farm, comprising fifty-six acres, situated in Jefferson township. This is a well improved property supplied with substantial outbuildings and the neat and' thrifty appearance of the place indicates the enterprising and progressive spirit of the owner.

Mr. Elben was married to Miss Catharine Carroll in 1878. He gives his political support to the republican party and maintains pleasant relations with his old comrades in the war through his membership in Newton Stanton Post, G. A. R., at Warsaw. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Protestant church. Having spent his entire life in the Buckeye state he is thoroughly familiar with its history. He has had to encounter difficulties and obstacles in his business career, but through perseverance and determination has overthrown these and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of Coshocton county.

Calvin Boyd

Calvin Boyd, a retired agriculturalist of Keene township, was born at Fresno, White Eyes township, Coshocton county, Ohio, February 25, 1839, his parents being William and Margaret (Bowl) Boyd. The father's birth occurred in Jefferson county, Ohio, March 13, 1803, while the mother was born in Ireland, her natal day being April 12, 1804. The latter, however, accompanied her parents on their removal to America in an early day.

William Boyd, the father of Calvin Boyd, was a miller by trade and erected the first mill in White Eyes township, which he later sold. He then purchased the farm on which his son Calvin now resides, and from 1847 until the time of his demise, on the 10th of June, 1891, he continued to make his home thereon, being highly esteemed throughout the community as a worthy pioneer settler and upright citizen. His wife was called to her final rest on the 3d of September, 1873. Their family numbered the following children, namely: Naney and Gilbert M., who are deceased; twins who died in infancy; Robert, who has also passed away; Sally, the wife of Samuel Park, of White Eyes township; Calvin, of this review; and James H., also deceased.

Calvin Boyd acquired a common-school education, and since the age of eight years has lived on the old homestead farm where he still resides, having purchased the place at the time of his father's death. In 1864 he enlisted for service in the Civil war as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, acting with that command for four months. After the close of hostilities he returned home and once more took up the work of the farm, wherein he met with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity as the years passed by. He also made a specialty of raising horses and sheep, both branches of his business returning to him a good annual income by reason of his unremitting industry and capable management. His holdings comprise two hundred acres of rich and productive land in Keene and White Eyes townships, where he is now living retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. He still makes his home on the farm where he has now lived for more than sixty years and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the substantial and worthy residents of his native county.

On the Ist of March, 1860, Mr. Boyd was united in marriage to Miss Media Wier, whose birth occurred in Ireland, May 14, 1839. Her parents, John and Margaret Wier, who emigrated to America in 1844 and settled in Coshocton county, are now deceased. They had a family of nine children. Unto our subject and his wife have been born three children, as follows: William M., a resident of this county; Viola, who has passed away; and Laura Jane, the wife of W. H. Huff, who is a professor in the high school at Fresno. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd also have three grandchildren.

Mr. Boyd gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party, and has given evidence of his capability and fidelity in public office in the positions of trustee, assessor and as a member of the school board. A native resident .of Coshocton county, he has now been an interested witness of its growth and development for more than two-thirds of a century, and that his life has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanch friends and admirers.

Cornelius A. Aronhalt

Among those who have achieved prominence as men of marked ability and substantial worth in Coshocton county is numbered Cornelius A. Aronhalt. He is a native son of this county, born September 11, 1852, in Lafayette township, a son of Hiram W. and Lydia Aronhalt, who are classed among the earliest settlers of the county. They are of German descent and are still living, the father being eighty-one years of age, while the mother is seventyseven years of age.

Cornelius A. Aronhalt spent the period of his boyhood and youth like that of most farmer lads, assisting in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting as soon as old enough, while the winter months were devoted to study in the district schools. Upon starting out in life on his own account he chose the occupation to which he had been reared and for eleven years followed farming in Franklin township, subsequent to which time he removed to his present property in Lafayette township. This tract comprises one hundred and fifty-five acres and is devoted to the raising of wheat, corn and oats, of which abundant crops are harvested, owing to the care and labor which Mr. Aronhalt bestows upon the fields. He follows only the most modern methods of agriculture and uses the latest improved machinery to facilitate his labors, so that his efforts are attended with good success.

Mr. Aronhalt chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Mary Wagoner, whom he wedded on the 14th of November, 1875. She is a daughter of Elijah and Elizabeth Wagoner and by her marriage has become the mother of three daughters: Clara E., who died in infancy; Nora E., the wife of James Wiggins; and Rennie M., the wife of Edward

Mr. Aronhalt gives his political support to'the men and measures of the republican party, and while he takes a deep interest in public matters, keeping himself informed on the current topics of the day, he has never been active as an office seeker. He is a member of the Plainfield Grange and is also identified with the English Lutheran church. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor, and today he stands as a representative of the substantial citizens of Coshocton county.

A spirit of marked enterprise and industry characterizes the business career of D. O. Thompson, a dealer in shoes, clothing and men's furnishing goods in Coshocton. His standing in commercial circles is indicated by the fact that he is now serving as the president of the Business Men's Association of the city, in which connection his labors have been effective and farreaching in promoting the business conditions and interests of the city, whereby the public at large has benefited, while individual prosperity has been advanced. With a nature that could never be content with mediocrity, he has utilized his opportunities for progress and, having left the ranks of the many, stands among the successful few.

Mr. Thompson was born in New Comerstown, Ohio, July 13, 1868, a son of John H. and Sarah (McClellan) Thompson, both of whom were natives of Cadiz, Harrison county, Ohio. They were reared and married there and afterward removed to Hopedale in the same county, there residing for a number of years. Mr. Thompson was engaged in railroading and came to Coshocton as engineer on the first engine over the branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad entering this city. Later he met with an accident which crippled him and he therefore abandoned railroading. For some years afterward he was postmaster of Hopedale and following the period of his residence there he removed to Uhrichsville, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he engaged in merchandising. In 1866 he became a resident of New Comerstown, where for several years he conducted a store but for the past ten or twelve years has lived retired. His political views are in harmony with the principles of the democratic party and his influence is ever given on the side of advancement and improvement. He has now reached the age of seventy-four years, while his wife is sixty-five years of age.

D. O. Thompson was largely reared in New Comerstown and pursued his education in the public schools but his opportunities in that direction were somewhat limited. He was never able to attend after his eleventh year but from that time forward depended upon his own resources for a, livelihood. He entered upon his business career as a newsboy but, ambitious for a position that would give him a better chance, in 1884 he entered a clothing store, where for five years he served as a clerk. During that time he gained a thorough knowledge, not only of the clothing trade but of busi- ness principles and methods, thus laying the foundation for his success in later years. In 1889 he came to Coshocton and secured a clerkship in the store of A. Berkowitz, who was occupying the same store room in which Mr. Thompson is now carrying on business on his own account. Some time later the business passed into the hands of F. Alexander, with whom Mr. Thompson remained. In 1899, in association with Luther Strauss, who was a clerk in the store, the proprietor, Mr. Alexander, living in New Philadelphia, became a partner in the enterprise, which was incorporated under the name of Strauss, Thompson & Company. In 1901 Mr. Strauss died and in August of that year Mr. Thompson acquired the entire business, which he has since conducted under his own name. He has today a splendid establishment, well equipped with a large and well selected line of clothing, men's furnishing goods and shoes. He is now regarded as a representative merchant of the city and is today enjoying a patronage which makes him one of the most prosperous merchants of Coshocton.

In March, 1893, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Smith, of South Charleston, Ohio, and unto them has been born a son, Elbert Dent, whose birth occurred June 12, 1905. Theirs is one of the finest homes in the city, pleasantly located on Park avenue and is especially attractive because, of its warm-hearted and generous hospitality. Recently Mr. Thompson has purchased the McNaughton business block at No. 434 Main street. He may truly be called a self-made man, for without any special advantages, educational or otherwise, he has worked his way upward and although a newsboy less than thirty years ago, he is today one of the most prosperous and representative merchants of Coshocton. His ability, too, is indicated by the fact that he is now serving as the president of the Business Men's Association. He is a member of the building committee, having charge of the construction of two modern bridges across the river, and in many particulars he has been the moving factor in measures for general progress. His political views are in accord with the principles of democracy but the demands of his business leave him no time for active participation in political affairs. He is a man of marked force of character, of helpful and courteous bearing, of strong determination and honorable purpose, and these qualities have been the elements in a career which is most commendable in all of its phases.

Harry L. Beach

While influence may avail to some extent in placing one in a favorble position in the business world, it can never be a prominent feature in success. That is entirely an individual matter, resulting from the judicious employment of one's natural abilities and the wise use of opportunities. This fact finds verification in the life record of Harry L. Beach, the superintendent and general manager of The H. D. Beach Company, who, though he became associated with his father in business, has made for himself a most creditable name in industrial and- commercial circles in Coshacton.

He was born in Richmond, Indiana, March 20, 1872, a son of H. D. Beach, of whom extensive mention is made elsewhere in this volume. At the usual age he became a pupil in the public schools of this city and during his summer vacations worked in his father's newspaper office. When his father organized the Standard Advertising Company in 1889, Harry L. Beach left school to give his entire attention to the business. He had previously learned the printer's trade in all of its details, and because of its kindred nature the advertising business came natural to him. Almost from the start Mr. Beach had chargé of the plant which resulted from the consolidation of the Standard Manufacturing Company and the Meek Company. Since the erection of the new plant, which is now operated under the name of The H. D. Beach Company, Harry L. Beach has had charge of the office and the business interests of the plant. He has thoroughly qualified himself for the conduct of this business by his ready mastery of every task which has been assigned to him and he has been instrumental in increasing the scope and enlarging the possibilities for manufacture in a plant which is now one of the leading establishments of the kind in the country, manufacturing art metal specialties for advertising.

In 1894 occurred the marriage of Harry L. Beach and Miss Elizabeth Clendening, of Coshocton, Ohio. They are the parents of four children: James; Frank, deceased; Camilla; and Nellie. Mr. Beach votes with the democracy and is a member of Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E., and Newark Lodge of the Royal Arcanum. Honored and respected by all, no man occupies a more enviable position in financial and commercial circles, and this is due not alone to the success to which he has attained but is also owing to the honorable, straightforward business policy he has ever followed.

John E. Graham

John E. Graham, a prominent and public-spirited citizen of Canal Lewisville, who through reelection is serving as the efficient postmaster and is also engaged in merchandising, is a native son of this village, born November 5, 1858, a son of Thomas and Charlotte Graham, both of whom were natives of Ireland and were married in that country in 1849. The year 1852 witnessed their arrival in Coshocton county, the family home being established in Franklin township. Their family numbered seven children, six sons and one daughter, of whom three sons and one daughter are yet living, namely: John E., Charles H., Thomas and Mrs. Ella Boyd.

John E. Graham, whose name introduces this record, began his early education in the public schools of Coshocton, this being supplemented by a course in the Lebanon Normal. After completing his studies he engaged in clerking for three years, after which he went upon the road as a traveling salesman, being thus employed for five years. In 1889 he engaged in business on his own account, opening a general store in Canal Lewisville, where he has conducted business to the present time. He carries a full and complete line of goods and in his undertakings is meeting with excellent success. In 1898 he was appointed postmaster of the village and in 1907 was reelected to the position, so that he has now entered upon his second term. He conducts the affairs of the office in a most prompt and able manner, fully appreciating the responsibilities that rest upon him in this connection.

He is a democrat in his political views and affiliations and religiously is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His record as on official and as a business man has been so honorable that he has gained the confidence and good will of all with whom he has been brought in contact, while he is popular in society circles in his home town.

Hon. Edwin Lewis Lybarger

Hon. Edwin Lewis Lybarger is the present representative of his district in the state legislature. He is, moreover, numbered among the distinguished citizens of Ohio because of the prominence to which he has attained in municipal circles and by reason of the extent and importance of his business interests. He is identified with mercantile, agricultural and fiancial concerns, the successful control of which indicates his keen sagacity and unfaltering enterprise.

Mr. Lybarger was born in Wayne county, this state, September 29, 1840. His paternal grandfather, Andrew Lybarger, settled in Coshocton county in 1808, coming to Ohio from Bedford county, Pennsylvania. He established his home on what is now Front street in the city of Coshocton, and opened the first tannery in the county. He was closely associated with the development of this district during its formative period, but in later years removed to Knox county, Ohio, where he died at the advanced age of seventy-eight years. In his political views he was a whig and in matters of citizenship he was progressive. He married Naomi Thompson, a daughter of James Thompson, a native of New Jersey and of Irish lineage, his ancestors coming from the north of Ireland to the new world. He served for seven years in the New Jersey Infantry during the Revolutionary war, and about 1808 removed to Coshocton county, Ohio, his last days being spent in Washington township.

James T. Lybarger, a son of Andrew and Naomi Lybarger, was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1804, and was therefore four years of age at the time of the removal of the family to Coshocton. In his boyhood days he worked with his father in the tannery and later engaged in farming, continuing to follow that pursuit up to the time of his death, which occurred in Millwood, Knox county, Ohio, in 1864. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Amelia Crum, was a native of Virginia. The maternal great-erandfather of E. L. Lybarger was John Crum, who served in Colonel Daniel Morgan's Battalion in the Revolutionary war.

As a public-school student Hon. Edwin L. Lybarger pursued his early education which was supplemented by study in the Millwood Academy. He taught school during the winter months in order to pay his tuition and pursue his academical course as a preparation for study in Kenyon College at Gambier, Ohio. The outbreak of the Civil war, however, put an end to his plans of a collegiate course, for he felt that his first duty was to his country, and on the 25th of November, 1861, was mustered in as a member of Company K of the Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His services cover almost four years, receiving his honorable discharge on the 13th of July, 1865. He held successively the ranks of second and first leutenant and captain, his promotion coming to him in recognition of his valiant and meritorious services on the field of battle. He was wounded at the battle of Corinth, October 4, 1862, but throughout nearly the entire period of his military experience was on active duty, meeting the enemy in many hotly contested engagements in which he inspired his men by his own valor and loyalty.

When the war was over Captain Lybarger located at Spring Mountain, Coshocton county, where he was identified with merchandising for thirty years. It was during that period that he was elected in 1875 to the state legislature. Thirty years later he was again chosen to represent the district in the lower house of the general assembly and is now serving, his record as a public officer being most creditable and honorable. In 1893 he was a member of the state board of public works, and was again elected to office in 1896, so that his ineumbency covered six years. Throughout the greater part of his business career he has been identified with mercantile interests and is now a member of the firm of Wright, Lybarger & Funk, of Warsaw. He is likewise the vice president and one of the directors of the Commercial National Bank of Coshocton, and for twenty-five years he has been interested in agricultural pursuits, now holding three hundred acres of land in Monroe township, while at one time he was the owner of seven hundred acres. From his farm property he derives a good income and all of his business interests are proving a profitable investment, a fact which indicates his sound judgment and clear business discernment.

Mr. Lybarger was united in marriage to Miss Naney Moore, of Coshocton county and unto them was born a son, Harry Swayne, who is now a junior in Kenyon College. Mrs. Lybarger is a member of the Presbyterian church and Mr. Lybarger contributes to its support. He is interested in all those humanitarian organizations which recognize man's obligation to his fellowmen, and has been an earnest and effective worker in many movements which have resulted beneficially to the more unfortunate classes. At one time he served as trustee of the girls industrial home at Delaware and is now a trustee of the Masonic Home in Mansfield. He has been very prominent in Masonry and served as grand master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. His local membership is with Warsaw Lodge, No. 296, A. F. & A. M.; Samaritan Chapter, No. 96, R. A. M.; Coshocton Commandery K. T. and the Cincinnati Consistory of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite. He also belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P>O. E.; to the Loyal Legion; and to Newton Stanton Post, G. A. R., having served as department commander of the state Grand Army of the Republic. He was a member of the commission that built the state house in Columbus, and he belongs to the Sons of the American Revolution. His interests are varied, but all are along lines of progress and improvement. He is a broadminded man who places a correct valution upon life, its opportunities and its privileges, ai:d while in his business affairs he has achieved a gratifying measure of prosperity, he has at the same time wrought along the lines of the greatest good to the greatest number, his activity in various fields proving of benefit to the community at large. He stands today among the most honored and eminent residents of Coshocton county.

Daniel Speck

Daniel Speck is classed among the wealthy landowners of Jefferson township, owning and operating two hundred acres of land, all of which is well improved and has been placed under a high state of cultivation. He has spent his entire life in Jefferson township, and no man of this section of the state is moré widely and favorably known. He was born on a farm in Jefferson township, October 15, 1859, and comes of German descent, being a son of Joseph and Margaret (Strom) Speck. The paternal grandfather was born in Germany in 1808 and spent his entire life there.

Joseph Speck, the father of our subject, came to the United States when a boy and located in Coshocton county. His first business venture was peddling clocks, later on he engaged in farming and became a very prosperous man. His death occurred March 8, 1898. He gave his political support to the democratic party and was a member of the Evangelical church. The father was twice married, his first union being with a Miss Gamesfelder, by whom he had three children, namely: Christ, a resident of Bethlehem township; John, a farmer of Grundy county, Missouri; and Hannah, deceased. His second union was with Margaret Strom who was born in Switzerland and became the mother of the following children: Gotlieb, a railroad man living in Terre Haute, Indiana; Joseph, a railroad engineer of Kansas City, Missouri; Caroline, deceased; David, of Massillon, Ohio; William, deceased ; Daniel, of this review; and George, also of Coshocton county. The mother died in 1904.

Daniel Speck began his early education in the district schools of Jefferson township, this being supplemented by a study in the Warsaw high school, from which he was graduated. After completing his education he engaged in teaching, following that vocation for eleven terms. He had been reared to farm life, however, and this proving more congenial to him than the duties of the schoolroom, he then turned his attention to agriculture. That he has met with success in the years which have come and gone is indicated by the fact that he is today the owner of two hundred acres of valuable land situated in Jefferson township. On his place stands a fine country residence and many substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, all these having been erected by Mr. Speck. His land is rich and arable, for he has made a close study of farming and follows the most modern methods in carrying on his work. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and each year gathers abundant harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields.

Daniel Speck was married to Lucy Sapp, a resident of Tiverton township, their wedding being celebrated in 1884. This union was blessed with six children: Lona, the wife of Russel Bantum, a mail carrier on rural route No. 1; Lelah, Eva, Chloris, Lester and Burton, all at home.

Mr. Speck's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party. He is deeply interested in the cause of education and at the present time is serving as trustee of the school board. His fraternal relations are with the Patrons of Industry, while both he and his wife are identified with the Disciple Church of Christ.

Mr. Speck's success has come to him, not through any fortunate circumstances or the aid of others, but it has been acquired through his own honorable and well directed efforts. He started out in life empty-handed and has battled earnestly end energetically and by indomitable courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune, and well deserves the proud American title of a self-made man.

Charles Dillon Brooke

The success which Charles Dillon Brooke has achieved in the jewelry business is proof that his choiceo f a life work was a wise one. In this field of labor he has made consecutive progress, noting and improving his opportunities, and utilizing the modern business methods which are revolutionizing trade interests and relations. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Chatham, Licking county, on the 25th of June, 1862, his parents being Dr. J. H. and Rebecca E. (Robison) Brooke.

His father was born in Gratiot, Ohio, in 1831, and was a son of Dr. William H. Brooke, one of the successful physicians of this state. Various representatives of the name have gained distinction as members of the medical profession, the son taking up his father's practice, and thus from generation to generation the work has been carried forward, each representative thereof displaying marked ability in the following. Mr. Brooke, of this review, was the first to enter another field of activity. His father is a graduate of the Miami Medical College, at Cincinnati, Ohio, and of the Starling Medical College at Columbus. He has been a very successful physician, practicing continuously for forty-six years. His wife is a daughter of the Rev. William Robison, a Christian minister, who for several years was pastor of a church of that denomination at Mount Vernon. The daughter,

Mrs. Brooke, was born in Danville, Ohio, July 27, 1834, and as both Dr. and Mrs. Brooke are still living their married life has been of long duration and has been one of mutual interest and happiness.

Charles Dillon Brooke is indebted to the public school system of Newark, Ohio, for the early educational privileges which he enjoyed. He mastered the branches taught in the various grades until he became a highschoo] student and when about seventeen years of age began the study of medicine and surgery in his father's office. His heart, however, was not in this work and after a year Dr. Brooke was persuaded by Henry C. Bostwick, who conducted a jewelry establishment under the Doctor's office, to allow his son to take up the jewelry trade. The boy was not interested in the medical science, and felt that he could obtain a higher degree of success in other lines if he could be permitted to utilize his energies in other fields. He therefore readily availed himself of his father's consent to abandon his medical studies and in September, 1880, he came to Coshocton to serve an apprenticeship under John A. Bostwick, a brother of the Newark jeweler. Mr. Brooke continued in this position for two years, or until the removal of his employer to Cambridge, Ohio, when he entered the employ of a third brother, W. W. Bostwick, who was also a jeweler of Coshocton, and with whom he remained for three years. In 1885 he availed himself of the opportunity to engage in business oh his own account by forming a partnership with L. K. Anderson, under the firm name of Brooke & Anderson. The new enterprise proved a profitable venture and was continued under the original ownership and management until 1891, when Mr. Brooke purchased his partner's interest and has since been alone. He has today one of the well appointed jewelry establishments of Coshocton, carrying a large and well selected line of goods, which in its neat and tasteful] arrangement is proving most attractive to the public.

While laboring earnestly and effectively for the upbuilding of his individual interests Mr. Brooke has also been a factor in the general progress of Coshocton along commercial lines, doing much to further the interests of the city in this regard as president of the Business Men's Association in 1906-07. He is a member of the board of Sinking Fund Trustees of the city and has served as a member of the city council. In all of these connections he has done for Coshocton whatever his hand has found to do and has introduced many movements which have resulted beneficially in promoting the city's welfare. He was practically the founder of the Business Men's Association, being untiring in his efforts during ten or twelve years to organize this and place it upon a substantial basis, realizing how much can be done through the united effort of business men in promoting general commercial and industrial activity. At length, with the assistance of George M. Gray, he succeeded in organizing the association, and all Coshocton acknowledges the city's indebtedness to them because of what has been accomplished through the society.

On the 17th of September, 1884, Mr. Brooke was married to Miss Anna M. Taylor, of Coshocton county, and a graduate of the Coshocton high school, class of. 1882. They have become the parents of five children: Har-

In his fraternal relations Mr. Brooke is connected with Coshocton Lodge, No. 96, F. & A. M.; Samaritan Chapter, No. 50, R. A. M.; Coshocton Commandery, No. 63, K. T.; Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E.; and Fidelity Lodge, No. 135, K. P. His political support is given to the republican party, but he prefers that his public service shall be done in the capacity of a private citizen rather than as an office holder. He is an enterprising citizen, his work being of a character that has largely promoted public progress. He upholds all of those interests which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride, while through his work in connection with the Business Men's Association he has greatly enhanced the material development of this city.

James L. Beck

James L. Beck, a prominent and well known citizen who is now engaged in agricultural pursuits in Bethlehem township, was born in Holmes county, Ohio, March 16, 1860, his parents being Benjamin and Juha (Butron) Beck, natives of Pennsylvania and Holmes county, Ohio, respectively. The grandfather, Michael Beck, came to Holmes county about 1835, and there entered land. Benjamin Beck, father of James L. Beck, lived in Holmes county unul the time of his demise on the 2d of August, 1905, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1894. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, namely: Mary S., the wife of E. A. Henderson, of Ashtabula county, Ohio; George M., deceased; James L., of this review; David A., a resident of Coshocton county; and Elmer E., who has also passed away.

James L. Beck atended the district schools of his native county, and when seventeen vears of age began learning the miller's trade under the direction of Peter Widner, of Holmes county. Two years later he took charge of the Helmick mills, being thus engaged for about nine months, when he came to Warsaw, Coshocton county, and took charge of the Warsaw mills for B. Beck & Son. Under his management the business grew and prospered and he continued as a representative of milling interests altogether for about sixteen years. Subsequently he successfully conducted a mereantile establishment in Warsaw for seven years, but on the expiration of that period sold out and turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits, with which he has since been connected. His holdings comprise two hundred and ten acres of rich and valuable land in Bethlehem township and in addition to the work of general farming he makes a specialty of raising hogs, these two branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. He has erected a commodious and substantial residence, a gond barn and all necessary outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and the place in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. Mr. Beck is likewise connected with the financial interests of the county as vice president of the Farmers & Merchants

Beck

On the 21st of September, 1882, Mr. Beck was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Strome, whose birth occurred at Warsaw, Ohio, March 12, 1863, her parents being Christian and Margaret Strome whose family numbered six children. The father is now deceased but the mother still survives and makes her home at Warsaw, Ohio. Unto our subject and his wife have been born vine children, as follows: Flossie M., deceased; Allen C., Torrence B. and Lester A., who are graduates of the Warsaw high school and are now attending college at Wooster, Ohio; Ethel L., who has also passed away; Helen G.; Esther M.; Robert J.; and Evelyn.

Mr. Beck gives his-allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party but has no desire for the honors or emoluments of office. He is, however, serving as a member of the school board, the cause of public instriction ever finding in him a stalwart champion. Fraternally he is connected with the Maccabees at Warsaw, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church at Warsaw, with which his wife is also identified. Mr. Beck has made good use of his opportunities. He has prospered from year to year and has conducted all business matters carefully and successfully, and in all his acts displays an aptitude for successful management.

Reason T. Compton

Reason T. Compton, well known, enterprising and successful, was born in Jackson township, Coshocton county, Ohio, on the 19th of January, 1848, his parents being Elisha and Hulda (Hays) Compton. The father, a retired agriculturist making his home with his son, Reason T., is mentioned on another page of this work. The mother, however, was called to her final rest September 13, 1880. The family is of English ancestry.

Reason T. Compton supplemented his preliminary education received in the public schools of Roscoe, by attendance at the Ohio Wesleyan University. On leaving the latter institution, he took up the profession of teaching, which he followed for twelve years in the public schools of Coshocton county and also in Illinois, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. He also devoted a part of his time to musical instruction, giving lessons in both vocal and instrumental music. Between the vears 1880 and 1905 he successfully carried on business as an organ and piano dealer in Coshocton, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in this undertaking by reason of his excellent business ability and reliable methods. On retiring from this line of activity he returned to the quietness of rural life and has since resided on his neat and well improved farm in Jackson township.

active part in public affairs, being the leader in the incorporation of the village of Roscoe in 1890. He has likewise promoted quite a number of rural telephones in Coshocton county, of which he drew the first and only complete telephone map while in the employ of the Bell Company.

For more than forty years he has now been a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which he takes an active and helpful interest. He is very fond of literature and music, and is widely recognized as a representative and worthy citizen of his native county. An unassuming, pleasant and compamionable gentleman, he stands among the first for integrity of purpose and general high character in the community where he has so long resided.

William J. Bahmer

When the Centennial History of Coshocton County was contemplated the publishers set forth these reasons governing their selection of the man for the work: To tell the story of Coshocton county in the spirit of its swiftly-moving events, to bring before the readers the vivid picture of the scenes and actors in the drama enacted here, and to do it in smoothly-flowing, consecutive narrative, it was deemed fitting to enlist one trained by long experience and especially qualified by wide personal acquaintance with the field. In selecting Wiliam J. Bahmer as the writer of the historical chapters the publishers brought to the work a pronounced believer in literature of intense action, alive to the charm of the beautiful and to the hur of situations, and quick to discern the incidents of dramatic and picturesque interest.

He is a Coshocton county product, born in Bakersville, August 1, thirtyseven years ago. The name in its German form is Bohmer, pronounced as though spelled Baymer. His father, John Bahmer, was a son of Valentine Bahmer, a pioneer in this region. John Bahmer was a storekeeper in Bakersville and well liked. Later he established produce commission houses in Pittsburg, Philadelphia, New York and Boston.

From the Walnut street school in Coshocton the son went to school in New York four years and Boston four years. Early symptoms of writing had already become manifest in a story of his published in Frank Leslie's Boys' and Girls' Weekly of New York. His father looked forward to giving him a college education, but the boy had only started in the English high school in Boston when his father died of pneumonia and was brought from Boston to the churchyard near Fiat, where his little daughters, Clara and Carrie, rested.

Young Bahmer was the sole support of his widowed mother. He began teaching school at Bakersville, Fiat and Pleasant Hill. At eighteen he was in newspaper work in Pittsburg, reporting the Johnstown flood, and later writing headlines for the Pittsburg Dispatch. He went to New York

His work ran the newspaper gamut: writing editorials, reporting Wall street, politics, yacht races, prize fights, titled weddings, Sing Sing's death chair, reviewing books and. plays, and interviewing presidents, statesmen and people of note from all over the world. While Harvard had been denied him he found a schooling in the world.

For four years his editorial work on the Coshocton Bulletin was known to the county. Following the sale of the paper he went to Pittsburg and was advertising writer for the Pennsylvania lines when he lost his wife, who died in Allegheny, March 22, 1904, from typhoid fever and pneumonia. She was his life. Hosts of friends cherished the memory of her pure, sympathetic nature. No daughter of Coshocton was held dearer in hearts than Marguerite Voorhees. Mrs. Elizabeth A. Voorhees is her mother. The father, Major George Voorhees, who served in the Civil war, rests at his daughter's side in South Lawn.

A little son, William V., born in Brooklyn, New York, March 13, 1897, and baby Marguerite, born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, January 6, 1904, were cared for by Mother Bahmer, the dear heart broken by years of sorrow over the graves in the country churchyard, now striving to help her son bear his cross.

He went from Coshocton to his worrk in the railroad office in Pittsburg each week, returning home Sundays. After four years with the railroad he left the service to live at home, and since the summer of 1907 has been in Coshocton.

At the last republican county convention his name came up for the nomination for state representative to oppose the reelection of J. B. Foraker to the United States senate. With an unprecedented demonstration of enthusiasm the convention nominated him on the first ballot over E. L. Lybarger, candidate for renomination. Hundreds of democratic friends supported Bahmer, but the Foraker knife was out, the Foraker postoffice henchmen stabbed as only those political assassins could stab, and their knifing defeated the republican nominee for the legislature.

Samuel H. Miller

Samuel H. Miller, a prominent and successful agriculturist of Bedford, township, was born at Miller's Station, Harrison county, Ohio, November 16, 1851, his parents being Harrison and Mary (Wheeler) Millr. The grandfather, who was of Dutch extraction and a,farmer by occupation, came from Pennsylvania and passed away when his son Harrison was seventeen, years of age. The latter's birth occurred in Harrison county, Ohio, in 1818, and in early life he learned the cabinetmaker's trade at Steubenville, working at that occupation for a few years. Subsequently he was employed at the carpenter's trade and, in connection with his work as a contractor and builder, carried on farming, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. His demise oceurred in 1904 and his remains were interred in the West Bedford cemetery. Miller's Station, Harrison county, was named in his honor. A democrat in his political views, the confidence and trust reposed in him by his fellow townsmen was indicated by the fact that he lacked but two votes of being elected sheriff of Harrison county, which usually gives a large republican majority. He was very prominent socially and also took an active and helpful interest in public affairs, capably serving as justice of the peace for twenty-seven years and also acting as treasurer and clerk of the township board. For twenty-four years prior to his death he was an exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity and was an upright, conscientious and God-fearing man, respected and esteemed by all who knew him.

The mother of our subject was born and reared in Harrison county, Ohio, where she was married and spent her entire life. Her family numbered eleven children, namely: Margaret Jane, the widow of Thomas Parr; Malinda and John, who have passed away; Harvey, a resident of Freeport, Harrison county; Jacob, who makes his home near Stillwater, Tuscarawas county, Ohio; two who are deceased; Samuel H., of this review; Lewis, living in the Indian Territory; and two who died in infancy. Following the death of his first wife Harrison Miller was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Margaret (Birchfield) Story, by whom he had two children: Henry, a farmer by occupation; and Harry, deceased. Mrs. Margaret Miller still survives and makes her home with her son Henry.

Samuel H. Miller obtained a limited education in the common schools but through reading, observation and experience in later years has become a well informed man. He remained on the home farm in Harrison county, assisting his father in the work of the fields until twenty-five years of age, when he started out in life on his own account. Purchasing a farm in 1881, he resided thereon until 1889, and afterward spent a year in Bedford. In the spring of 1890 he rented the Talmage place near Roscoe, Coshocton county, in the operation of which he was successfully engaged for six years. On the expiration of that period he took up his abode on his present farm, comprising two hundred acres of well improved and valuable land in Bedford township, and in 1903 erected a substantial and attractive residence on the place. He likewise owns a half interest in a tract of three hundred and fifty-seven acres in Harrison county, on which property there are two producing oil wells, located four miles south of Scio, Ohio. He is widely recognized as a prosperous and progressive agriculturist of the county and justly merits the proud American title of a self-made man, for the success which has crowned his efforts is entirely the result of his unwearied industry, unflagging energy and capable management.

In December, 1874, Mr. Miller was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Jane Smith, of Harrison county. She was one of a family of ten children, namely: Margaret; Susanna; William, a practicing physician, who passed away in 1881; Mrs. Miller; Edna; Bert; Amanda; McKinney; Mattie; and D. M., who is engaged in the practice of medicine at Newark. All of the children were well educated and became school teachers. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Miller were born three children. Alberta is the wife of J. C. Borland, who is engaged in the wholesale and retail meat business at Bowerston, Ohio. Of their three children but one survives - Weldon Earl. Earl Smith and Ethel May Miller are the other members of our subject's family.

A stalwart advocate of democracy, Mr. Miller has taken an active interest in the local work of the party and his fellow townsmen have called him to various positions of trust and responsibility. For two terms, from 1891 until 1894, he acted as coroner of Coshocton county, also served as secretary of the county central committee, as a member of the school board and for three years was justice of the peace. Fraternally he is connected with Wakatomika Lodge; No. 108, A. F. & A. M., in which he has passed through some of the chairs. A devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, he has served therein as steward and trustee and for thirty years has been class leader, while his wife and family are also connected with the church. Such in brief is the life history of Samuel H. Miller. In whatever relation of life we find him he is always the same honorable and honored gentleman, whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him.

Arnold Babcock

Arnold Babcock owns a well improved farm of fifty acres situated in Oxford township, in the operation of which he is assisted by his son. The history of the pioneer settlement of Coshocton county would be incomplete without the record of this gentleman, who from its earliest founding has been a prominent factor in its substantial growth and improvement. Mr. Babcock was born in this county, May 1, 1836, and is the only surviving member of a family of five children born of the marriage of Abel and Jane (Amore) Babcock, both of whom were born in the state of New York, whence they removed to Coshocton county at an early date. Both the parents are now deceased, the father passing away in Linton township and the mother in Adams township, this county. The family record is as follows: Truesdale, Arnold, Elizabeth, John and Clark.

Arnold Babcock pursued his studies in the common schools and remained under the parental roof until he reached mature years, when he operated rented land for two years, after which he was employed by others at farm labor for a time. He then put aside all business and personal considerations and offered his services to the government, becoming a member of Company C, Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served four years. He participated in many of the most important and_ hotly contested battles of the war, these including Stone River and Lookout Mountain. He was twice wounded and was incarcerated in Libby prison for six months. Following the close of hostilities he returned home, having made a most creditable military record.

Upon his return to Coshocton county, Mr. Babcock assumed farming pursuits and in the years that have come and gone has accumulated a property embracing fifty acres situated in Oxford township. He was throughout a long period engaged in general farming and still retains his residence on the farm but leaves the more active work of the fields to his son, in whom he finds a valuable assistant.

Mr. Babcock has been twice married. He first wedded Miss Julia Daugherty, their marriage being celebrated in 1865. She was born in Oxford township, one of a family of foyr children born unto James and Jane Daugherty. By her marriage Mrs. Babcock became the mother of a son and daughter: James, who has departed this life; and Louisa, the wife of A. Rehard, of Coshocton county. Following the death of his first wife, Mr. Babcock was married in 1871 to Margaret A. Loos, who was born in this county, one of six children, born unto Adam and Rebecea Loos. This union was blessed with seven children, as follows: Calvin A., who is operating the home farm; Alta M., the wife of William Polan, of Dennison, this state; Harry and Carry, twins, the former a resident of this county, and the latter at home; Daisy Bell, who is still under the parental roof; and two who died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away in 1899.

Mr. Babcock is a republican in his political views and affiliations and has served as trustee of the township, while for over thirty years he filled the office of constable. His religious views are indicated by his membership in the Methodist Protestant church. He is a public-spirited citizen, who is widely and favorably known, and his life history cannot fail to prove of interest to his many friends, and it is therefore with pleasure that we present this record of his career to our readers.

John C. Stockum

A finely improved farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, situated in Tuscarawas township, within two miles of Coshocton, is the home of John C. Stockum, who has followed farming as a life work. He was born February 8, 1847, on the home farm in Linton township, a son of Christopher and Mary Ann Stockum, who were both natives of Germany, whence they emigrated to the United States in the early '30s. Locating on a farm in Linton township, Coshocton county, the father here engaged in general agricultural pursuits throughout a long period.

John C. Stockum was reared on the home farm, assisting his father in the work of the fields from the time of early spring planting until the crops were, harvested in the late autumn. He pursued his studies in the district schools near his father's home but his advantages in this direction were very limited for there was much arduous labor to be performed in the development and improvement of a new farm. He shared with the other members of the family in the hardships and privations to be borne with life on the frontier. Upon starting out in life on his own account he chose the occupa- tion to which he had been reared and has always followed agricultural pursuits, now owning and operating a farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, located within two miles of Coshocton, so that while he can enjoy the advantages of a rural existence he can also have many of the conveniences of city life. He is engaged in general farming and is meeting with excellent success in his undertakings.

Mr. Stockum has been three times married. He was first married August 8, 1870, to Miss Elizabeth Cabel, of Randolph county, Indiana, by whom he had a son and daughter, Philip and Caroline. The wife and mother died July 24, 1878, and for his second wife Mr. Stockum chose Maria E. Miller, of Linton township, this county, whom he wedded November 21, 1880. There is one son by this union, Milo E. The second wife died February 25, 1892, and on the 28th of May, 1898, Mr. Stockum was married a third time, this union being with Mary C. Bainter, of Muskingum county, Ohio, by whom he has one daughter, Marie. All the children are still under the parental roof.

Mr. Stockum's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party and while he takes a deep interest in public affairs he has never been active as an office seeker, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business affairs. He is a member of the Grange and of the English Lutheran church. Brooking no obstacles that could be overcome by honorable and determined effort he is working his way upward and is already favorably known in agricultural circles because of his capability and his laudable ambition.

Daniel W. Babcock

Daniel W. Babcock was born in Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, Ohio, December 16, 1838, a son of Eleazer and Elizabeth (Elliott) Babcock. The father, whose birth occurred near Dartmouth College, New Hampshire, in 1801, came to Coshocton county in 1811, entered land and built a log cabin in which he made his home for several years. Later he erected a hewed log house, which remained his place of abode until he was called to his final rest on the 4th of October, 1873. In 1831 he had wedded Miss Elizabeth Elliott, who was born in New York in 1809 and who passed away August 22, 1859. He was one of the earliest pioneer settlers of this county and underwent many of the trying and hazardous experiences of frontier life but lived to witness the gradual transformation of the wild and undeveloped region into a well populated and highly civilized district. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eleazer Babcock were born eight children, namely: Mary, Sarah and Samuel T., all of whom are deceased; Daniel W., of this review; Hannah, the widow of E. Foster, who resides in Coshocton, Ohio; Caroline, who is the widow of J. Asire and makes her home in Holmes county, Ohio;

Daniel W. Babcock acquired a common-school education and when he had attained his majority rented a part of the home farm. In 1864 he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company F, Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of hostilities, when he was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio. He had gone with Sherman on the celebrated march to the sea. On returning to this county he lived with his father until the latter's death and then purchased the homestead farm of eighty-two and a half acres. In 1879 he moved to the Mound and entered the mercantile business, meeting with a well merited measure of success in that undertaking. He now makes a specialty of raising sheep and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the substantial and enterprising citizens of the community.

On the 2d of December, 1875, Mr. Babcock was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Allishouse, whose birth occurred in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1847. Her parents, Jacob and Mary Allishouse, whose family numbered eleven children, are now deceased. Unto our subject and his wife have been born four children: Nora A., at home; L. E.; L. R., whose demise occurred at Duluth, Minnesota; and D. W., also at home.

In his political views Mr. Babcock is a stalwart republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth, have called him to various positions of trust and responsibility. He has served as constable and also as a member of the school board, while for thirty vears he capably and faithfully discharged the duties of postmaster. He still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in G. A. R. Post, No. 69, and his wife belongs to the Reform church. Throughout his entire life, covering the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, he has maintained his home in this county and is therefore largely familiar with its annals from pioneer times down to the present. That his career has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanchest friends and admirers.

I. Bentley Pope

Where ambition is satisfied and every ultimate aim accomplished effort ceases and inactivity follows as a logical sequence of such a condition. It is only when ambition serves as an impetus toward higher ideals that results are achieved in excess of anything that has gone before. In an analyzation of the life record of I. Bentley Pope it is not difficult to ascertain that this same ambition has been the main motive power in his life - an ambition to do something better than he has done before, and to set up a higher standard than has hitherto been known in the line of business with which he is connected. In the development of the pottery industry of America his name is a preeminent one and what he has done is deserving of the recognition and commendation of all who feel a spirit of pride in America and her industrial and commercial advancement.

Mr. Pope is a native of England and spent his boyhood days at Stokeon-Trent, long a center of the pottery industry of the world. It was to this line that he turned his attention at an early age, becoming an apprentice in the works of Copeland & Son, having the largest establishment in his native town. Gradually working his way upward in the business and utilizing every opportunity to gain a knowledge that would bring him toward perfection in this line, he ultimately received a degree on completing a course in the Memorial School of Art, at Stoke-on-Trent, and after two more years of practical experience in the business he sailed for America, believing that it offered a richer, if largely untried, field to the potter.

Up to that time, and for some years thereafter, America's production of pottery was of a grade inferior to that produced in the pottery centers of the old world, but through the influence of such men as Mr. Pope the business has been undergoing a gradual development. For a few years after his arrival in the new world he acted as general manager, and manager of the decorative department of the American Pottery Company, the Union Pottery Company, the Gloscon Pottery Company, and the Pope & Lee Company, all of Trenton, New Jersey. During his connection with the first named he was awarded the only gold medal for the decoration of semi-porcelain dinner and toilet ware given by the board of awards of the Centennial Exposition, at Philadelphia, in 1876. For twelve years he was manager of the decorating department and art director for the Knowles, Taylor & Knowles Company, at East Liverpool, Ohio, and it is admitted that largely through his keen appreciation of a high standard of ornamentation the products of this company have attained the enviable position they now occupy among the pottery products of the United States.

It was but natural that Mr. Pope should seek a field in which he could give wider scope to his genius and to his ambitions. He had given years of study to the clays and other materials used in pottery manufacture, as well as to the art side of the business, and had come to the conclusion that it was due to the manufacturer and not to the product that America had not attained a preeminence that Europe had done in this line. He resolved, therefore, that he would demonstrate to the world the fact that America need be second to no country in its pottery manufacture. To this end it was necessary that he engage in business on his own account, that his labors need not be hampered by the restrictions of others. For this purpose the Pope-Gosser China Company, of Coshocton, was organized, Mr. Pope associating with him Charles F. Gosser, a man of well known executive force, of the clearest discrimination, and of the keenest business ability. Coshocton was reaching out for new industrial enterprises and various factories had been located here. At length he completed negotiations with Mr. Gosser that soon developed the plans for the organization of the Pope-Gosser China Company and its location in this city. The plans for the new company required a broad business policy which would maintain present incomes while it sought higher commercial fields. The starting point of the industry was made the best product to be secured from the pottery workmen then available, and from that point progress was sought as improvement could be maintained in both material and workmen. While the company has already made marked advance in the character of its manufacture, it has not yet reached the high ideals which the members of the company have set up.

Mr. Pope's plans for an independent business, however, saw their fruition in 1902 in the organization of the Pope-Gosser China Company, under the laws of New Jersey, with a capital stock of one hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars. Of this one hundred thousand is common and twenty-five thousand preferred stock. The company organized with the following well known business men as members of its board of directors: I. Bentley Pope, HI. B. Pope, C. F. Gosser, S. M. Williams, C. B. Hunt and J. M. Pope. The cresent officers are: I. B. Pope, president; William Burns, vice president; and Charles F. Gosser, secretary and treasurer.

With the organization of the company completed, work was immediately begun on the plant, which is situated on the line of the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, on Seventeenth street, in Coshocton. In making the architect's plans all the best ideas in pottery construction were combined and incorporated, and the result is a model, modern arrangement, equal to if not superior to any plant of this kind in the world. Already the facilities have had to be increased, and now include six large kilns, and four for decorated ware. 'Two additions have had to be made to the building, which was originally three hundred and fifteen by ninety feet. The building containing the administration department is three stories in height and the other buildings are two stories. The plant in its floor space covers nearly two acres and is lighted throughout with electricity. Something of the spirit of enterprise which characterizes the company in the conduct of the business is indicated by the fact that while a disastrous fire occurred in February, 1906, it was allowed to be only a temporary bar to progress, for at once the work of rebuilding and further improvement was begun. Employment is given from two hundred and twenty-five to four hundred people, according to the season, and the payroll approximates one hundred thousand dollars annually. In the business "progress" has been the watchword, and the company demands this quality of its employes. From the beginning they have manufactured what is known to the trade as semi-porcelain dinner and toilet ware, its distinguishing merit being its immunity from crazing or cracking, which was an early fault of American pottery. The Pope-Gosser Company has, however, entirely overcome this difficulty, and the reputation of its output is such that its standard makes find a ready sale without solicitation. Indeed the excellence of the product is attested by the fact that fully one-half of the output is disposed of through the home office without the assistance of salesmen, for the jobbers and department houses seek the product. The business has enjoyed a steady and rapid growth and in no department has its development been so marked as in the decorative department, where most beautiful and artistic work has been given to the public. Today the Pope-Gosser products of this character are regarded as standard on the market. and the position of the company at the head of American pottery is firmly established and universally conceded. For a brief time after the establishment of the plant European clays were used, but these were soon discontinued, for American clays were found which are infinitely superior to those in use in the old world, and the company believes that the time will come when the French will have to buy American clay to compete with the product here produced. When American potters are trained to the efficiency of the European workmen there is no doubt that Coshocton pottery will occupy the place in public regard now held by Haviland, and other well known makes. Mr. Pope in his efforts in this line is certainly deserving of the recognition and the gratitude of the industrial world. His name stands in pottery manfacture as does the name of McCormick in connection with agricultural implements. With thorough preliminary training as a foundation, he has built the superstructure of success, and his ability is today only hampered by the skill of employes whom he can secure, and this is a condition which is steadily being overcome. Holding to the highest ideals, thoroughly conversant with the best methods of manufacture, possessing superior artistic skill, and knowing fully what is being done in every important pottery industry of the world, he is working not only to equal but to improve on what has already been accomplished, and.Coshocton may well be proud to number him among ker honored citizens. The Pope-Gosser Company took the only gold medal at Jamestown Exposition for porcelain china and general art ware, both white and decorated.

The advanced and enlightened methods of medical practice which are now in vogue find a worthy exponent in Dr. H. R. McCurdy, of Coshocton, and while he has made the practice of medicine and surgery his real life work, he has also become known as one of the most far-sighted, energetic and progressive business men of the county, identified with various important enterprises of this city. His parents were John R. and Rebecca (Johnson) farm where his birth occurred. The paternal grandfather of Dr. McCurdy came to Coshocton county from Philadelphia in 1817 and purchased two sections of land in Bedford township, a part of which he owned at the time of his death. He married Jane Richie, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, and both lived to an advanced age.

After mastering the branches taught in the common schools Dr. McCurdy continued his education in the academy at West Bedford and the Northwestern Ohio University. He was graduated in medicine from the Western Reserve University with the class of 1889, but in the interim after completing his literary studies he engaged in teaching school for five years, being employed throughout this period in the schools of Coshocton county. Having qualified as a member of the medical profession, he located for prac- tice in Keene, this county, where he remained for five years and then came to the city of Coshocton, where he has since made his home. His ability has been demonstrated in the success which has followed him in the handling of many important and serious cases. He is enough of a psychologist to realize the beneficial effects of sympathy and encouragement and these form a part of his practice, while in the administration of remedial agencies he is most accurate, employing only such as produce the best possible results.

Aside from his professional service Dr. Mc¢Curdy is well known in Coshocton, being connected with many of the leading commercial and industrial concerns of the city. He is now the president of the Lafayette Stamping & Enameling Company, president of the Coshocton Realty Company, president of the Coshocton Chautauqua Company and a director of the Coshocton National Bank, the Meek Company, the Coshocton Glass Company and the Times Publishing Company, all of which have felt the impetus of his energy and keen business discernment, which enables him not only to understand the situation at the present moment but also to correctly value the opportunities of the future.

Dr. McCurdy was married in Coshocton, in 1893, to Miss Lulu B. Sprague and the hospitality of the best homes of the city is cordially extended them. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and he gives his political allegiance to the democratic party. He served during President Cleveland's administration as United States pension examining surgeon for five years and for three years was a member of the city council, during which time he exercised his official prerogatives in support of progressive public measures, but whether in office or out of it, his loyalty to the general good is unquestioned. His efforts have been of substantial benefit in the material upbuilding of the city and, added to his business powers, he has those traits of character which render him personally popular. He is a member of the county and state medical societies, is also connected with the Board of Trade, and is a trustee by appointment of the public library.

Kinsey L. Almack

Kinsey L. Almack, the vice president of the Coshocton Glass Company, was born in the village of Mohawk, Coshocton county, April 19, 1880, his parents being David and Rebecca E. (Richards) Almack. His father was born in Perry township, Coshocton county, October 15, 1843, a son of Kinsey G. and Caroline (Johns) Almack. The father was a native of Maryland, while his grandfather was a native of England, and on coming to the new world settled in Maryland, where his remaining days were spent. Kinsey Almack arrived in Coshocton county when about eighteen or twenty years of age. He was a stonemason and also a farmer. He died in 1865 in faith of the Methodist church, of which he had long been a consistent and devoted member. His political views were in accord with the principles of the republican party. His wife was born, reared and married in Ohio and passed away in 1888. In their family were eight children: David E.; L. F., a gardener of Indiana; H. W., who follows farming at Newburn, Iowa; Mary F., the wife of T. McNabb, a farmer of Knox county, Ohio; W. A., deceased; Harriet Eliott, the wife of W. P. Moore, of Jewel City, Kansas; W. L., a telegraph operator, in Beloit, Kansas; and Margaret Florence, who is now deceased.

Of this family, D. E. Almack was reared in his native county and acquired his education in the public schools of Perry and Jefferson townships. He assisted his father in the work of the home farm until eighteen years of age, when he offered his services to his country and enlisted as a member of Company H, Ninety-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry to serve for three years. He was discharged at the close of the war in 1865, after having done faithful duty in various important battles. He was wounded at Kenesaw Mountain by a minie ball, and also participated in the battles of Perryville, Kentucky; Stone River, Chattanooga, Mission Ridge, Knoxville, Resaca, Franklin and Louisville, together with all of the engagements under General Sherman from Chattanooga to Kenesaw. On the expiration of his term of service Mr. Almack returned to Coshocton county, where he engaged in farming for two years. He then turned his attention to merchandising in Mohawk and was numbered among the leading business men of that village and of Coshocton until within two years ago. He then retired from mercantile fields, but is still financially interested in various business enterprises. He derives a good income from a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in New Castle township and from real estate in Mohawk and Coshocton, while he also is financially interested in an ice plant and other business concerns in his city. His political views accord with the priciples of the republican party, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. He is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and thus maintains pleasant relations with his old comrades who wore the blue on southern battlefields.

Kinsey L. Almack, son of D. E. Almack, was a pupil in the public schools of Mohawk until he had passed through consecutive grades and entered the high school. As he approached manhood he became his father's , associate in the general mercantile business of Mohawk and thus received a thorough commercial training. After attaining his majority he came to Coshocton to associate himself with the firm of D. E. Almack «& Sons, wholesale grocers, the company being organized at that time. He remained a member of the firm until 1904, when they sold out to the trust and imediately afterward K. L. Almack became asosciated with the Coshocton Glass Company, of which he has since been the vice president. This is now classed with Coshocton's most important productive industries, while Mr. Almack has won recognition as a most successful and progressive young business man.

On the 17th of September, 1901, Mr. Almack was united in marriage to Miss Grace Fowler, of Warsaw, Ohio, and unto them has been born a daughter, Velenthol. The parents are well known in this city and have gained the favorable regard of a large circle of friends. Mr. Almack exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party, but has neither time nor inclination to seek office. He is watchful of opportunities in the business world, and is making substantial and gratifying adadvancement, sustaining in his business career the high reputation which has always been associated with the family name in commercial and industrial affairs.

He whose nome initiates this review has gained recognition as one of the able and successful physicians of the state, and by his labors, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics has justified the respect and confidence in which he is held by medical fraternity and the local public.

Dr. Sands is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, born November 23, 1862, a son of William B. and Florence M. (Jesopp) Sands. The paternal grandfather, Samuel Sands, was proprietor of the Baltimore American and was the first man to set in type from the original manuscript the words of the familiar song, "The Star Spangled Banner." In 1819 he established the American Farmer and was engaged in newspaper work throughout his entire life.

The father, whose birth also occurred in Maryland, continued the publication of the American Farmer after his father died and he, too, became quite prominent in journalistic circles. He is now living retired in Baltimore. The mother was born in Ashland, Baltimore county, Maryland, and her people were extensive slaveowners prior to the Civil war and gave them their freedom just prior to that strife. Their family numbers six sons and one daughter, all of whom survive: William B., Jr., a florist of Baltimore county, Maryland; G. M., of this review; Frank N., a bank clerk in Baltimore; P. West, also a florist of Baltimore; Hugh K., who is employed as clerk in a bank in that city; Murray, who is a traveling salesman for the American 'Tobacco Company and makes his home in Washington, D. C.; and Mary Cecelia, who is with her parents.

Dr. G. M. Sands acquired his early education in the district schools of Baltimore county, Maryland, and later graduated from the Baltimore high school. Deciding upon the practice of medicine and surgery as a life work he then matriculated in the College of Physicians & Surgeons at Baltimore, Maryland, spending two years in that institution. He completed his course, however, in the Baltimore University School of Medicine in 1896. He then located in Walhonding, where he has followed his profession to the present time and his practice is constantly increasing. Four years ago he established a hotel and sanitarium, which he has since conducted under the name of Nacirema. This is one of the finest and best equipped institutions in Coshocton county and its patronage is drawn from many sections of the state.

riage was living in Baltimore county, Maryland. They have one son, Samuel, who was born July 17, 1892. The Doctor is independent in his political views and affiliations but has never been active in public life for his time is fully occupied with the duties of his profession. He is a Mason, belonging to Warsaw Lodge, No. 255, at Spring Mountain; and to the chapter at Coshocton. He is also a member of the Maccabees tent at Walhonding, while he keeps abreast with the ideas and progress of the medical profession through his membership in the Coshocton Medical Society and the Ohio State Medical Society. He and his wife are members of the Disciples church. He is a man of the highest and purest character and he is held in high regard not only by the public but by his fellow practitioners as well. .