Coshocton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1909 (part 12 of 19)

Mr. Gray was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, at the town of Crows Mills, May 11, 1862. His father, Thomas D. Gray, was born in the same county and followed the occupation of farming for a number of vears. At the time of the Civil war he joined the Union army and is a veteran of that long struggle. He is now engaged in the ice business at West Lafayette, Ohio, and has led a life of activity and usefulness. He married Margaret Venati, a native of Greene county, Pennsylvania, who is also living.

George Milton Gray was educated in Washington county, Pennsylvania, attending the district schools at intervals to the age of twenty years and working in different ways in the meantime. He was employed at home until fifteen years of age and afterward worked as a farm hand until he reached the age of twenty-three, when he went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and secured a situation in a book store. Subsequently at Claysville, Pennsylvania, he was employed as clerk in a hardware store and again took an advanced step in his business career when he became junior partner of the firm of Noble & Gray, furniture dealers and undertakers. His association with that enterprise continued for three years, when he sold out and removed to Zanesville, where he was engaged in the hardware business as senior partner of the firm of Gray & Richards for two years.

Coming to Coshocton in 1892, Mr. Gray bought the hardware business of Finley & Darns, who occupied a location which had been the site of a hardware enterprise for forty years. Mr. Gray remained at that poirit for fourteen years but in 1906 built his present fine store, which is unsurpassed in the state. It is equipped with every convenience for the conduct of a hardware trade and he carries a large and extensive line of goods. His annual sales are now represented by a large figure and the volume of business yearly transacted over his counters makes his one of the leading commercial enterprises of the city. His business methods are such as will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny and, owing to his reasonable prices and honorable dealing, he justly merits the gratifying success which has come to him. Mr. Gray, moreover, is well known to the hardware trade throughout the country. Soon after his arrival here he became one of the organizers of the Ohio Hardware Association, the pioneer association in America, and for two years served as its secretary. During this time he was authorized to devise a plan for and organize a mutual fire insurance company among the hardware dealers. His plans reached perfection in the organization, on the 9th of November, 1902, of the Hardware Dealers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company. This was the result of much hard work and careful planning on the part of Mr. Gray, for it was necessary to secure one million dollars insurance and have ten thousand dollars in the bank before the organization could be effected. From the beginning the company has had a phenomenal growth, receiving the endorsement and patronage of many thousands of hardware dealers throughout the country. From the organization Mr. Gray has been secretary and treasurer of the company and deserves much credit for what he has accomplished in this direction. At the same time he has carefully managed and successfully controlled his private business interests. On the 1st of February, 1900, he incorporated the hardware business under the name of the Gray Hardware Company, of which he is president. He is likewise vice president of the Dean & Berry Paint Company of Columbus, Ohio, and president of the Provision Company of this city. In 1901 he erected the Gray building, which is one of the substantial structures of the city.

On the 21st of October, 1891, occurred the marriage of Mr. Gray and Miss Adela D. Gorley, of Claysville, Pennsylvania. 'Their children are: Mary Gorley, born. October 5, 1892; Margaret, June 26, 1901; and Gorley, born March 1, 1907.

Mr. Gray is a member of the County Visitors and the Business Men's Association. He is very active and enthusiastic in the latter, realizing how much can be done for the commercial and industrial development of the city if its business men will but cooperate toward this end. A devoted member of the Presbyterian church, he is now serving as elder and for ten years was superintendent of the Sunday school. Early in life he made it his purpose to carefully choose the right kind of companions, and this has undoubtedly been one of the-influencing factors in his life. In an analyzation of his record it will be seen that hard work and persistency of purpose have been salient features in his career. His name is above reproach wherever he is known. He believes in and acknowledges the rights and privileges of others while laboring for his own interests, and in all of his business career has never been known to advance his own fortunes by trespassing upon the rights of others. He is a typical man of the age, alert and enterprising, with marked fertility of resource, and is leaving the impress of his individuality upon Coshocton's growth and improvement.

David I. Martin

David I. Martin, a successful agriculturist of Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, was born in this township on the 4th of August, 1849, his parents being James and Jane (Martin) Martin. The father, whose birth occurred in Ireland in 1796, emigrated to the United States in 1820 and after residing in Delaware for a short time removed to New York, where he remained for five years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Delaware, where he was married in 1828 to Miss Jane Martin, who was bern in that state in 1804. In the year 1842 he brought his family to Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm and was so successful in the conduct of his agricultural interests that, at the time of his death, which occurred in February, 1881, he was the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of rich and valuable land. His wife was called to her final rest on the 2d of December, 1859. Unto this worthy couple were born ten children, namely: Anna, Fannie and William, all of whom are deceased; Joseph, who died in 1862, while serving as a soldier in the Union army; Mary J., a resident of this county; Elizabeth and Maria, who have also passed away; Margaret, of Coshocton county; James, deceased; and David I., of this review.

The last named acquired a common-school education and remained under the parental roof. until the time of his marriage, when he located on the farm in Mill Creek township where he now resides, having since been engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Both branches of his business return to him a gratifying annual income and he is well known as one of the prosperous and enterprising farmers of the community.

Mr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Fannie N. Bechtol. a daughter of Nathan Bechtol, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, while her mother was born in Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtol removed to Stark county, Ohio, in 1837, and later took up their abode in Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, the former passing away February 6, 1892, and the latter in 1896. Their family numbered ten children, as follows: Mary K., the widow of Henry Ling, of Mill Creek township; Ruth Ann, the wife of George Elliott, of Iowa; Jane, a resident of Mill Creek township; Samuel G., of Williams county, Ohio; Nathan, living in Coshocton county; John and William, also residents of Williams county, Ohio; Frederick, of Mill Creek township; Mrs. Martin; and Benjamin F., who makes his home in Mill Creek township. Mrs. Martin, who for five years prior to her marriage was engaged in teaching school, had two children. Joseph F., who was born in 1880, passed away February 15, 1881. William O., whose natal day was March 15, 1882, is now operating the home farm. He wedded Miss Mary A.

Mr. Martin gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has served as justice of the peace and algo as a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are devoted and faithful members of the Episcopal church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life he is well and favorably known here and his straightforward and honorable dealings have won for him the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

Samuel M. Williams

The work of Samuel M. Williams as a contractor and builder has met with cordial and general appreciation as is evidenced by many attractive public buildings and residences of Coshocton. Mr. Williams was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, September 19, 1849, a son of Charles V. and Mary Ann (Cabot) Williams. The father was likewise a native of the Keystone state and during his business career was a bookkeeper and office clerk. He died in 1904, at the very advanced age of eighty-four years. The mother was a native of Pennsylvania and her death occurred when the son was a lad of twelve years.

Samuel M. Williams started out at an early age to make his own way in the world. He was first employed at farm labor during the spring and summer months, while in the winter seasons he pursued his studies in the common schools for a few years. At the age of nineteen he began learning telegraphy, and such was his aptitude and ready adaptability that at the end of one year he was qualified to accept the position of ticket agent and telegraph operator at West Middlesex, Pennsylvania. He filled that position for two years when, owing to the close confinement of this work, he was compelled to give it up and seek outdoor employment. To this end he became apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, receiving for his first year's work his board and five dollars per month, for the second year his board and ten dollars per month, and for the third and last year his board and twenty dollars per month. During the winter months of these three years he engaged in teaching in the district schools in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, receiving as a compensation thirty dollars per month.

For two years or more he worked at his trade in Mercer county and in June, 1875, made his way to Coshocton county, Ohio, where he first found employment with Williams & Weiser, builders and operators of planingmills. After a period of five or six years spent with this firm, Mr. Williams, with others, organized the Buckeye Planing Mill Company, composed of Thomas Collopy, F. J. Guenther and himself. This firm continued with success until 1886, when Mr. Williams withdrew from the concern and went to Atchison, Kansas, where he was employed in a planing-mill for one year. At the solicitation of Henry Herbig, cashier of the Commercial National Bank, Mr. Williams returned to Coshocton and erected for Mr. Herbig a most attractive and pretentious residence on South Fourth street in this city. This was Mr. Williams' first contract but it proved to be a splendid advertisement for him, for in this way he secured other contracts. In 1891, however, he withdrew from the field of contracting and building and became president and manager of the Wooden Novelty Company upon its organization, the concern being formed for the purpose of manufacturing wooden advertising goods and wooden specialties. In 1899 he withdrew from the firm and once more took up the contract business, which he has continued to the present time. Many of the fine and substantial structures of Coshocton and the surrounding districts stand as monuments to his skill and enterprise. He has practically built all of the manufacturing plants and many of the public structures as well as many of the beautiful and attractive homes of Coshocton. He has gained an envjable reputation as a skilled workman and thoroughly trustworthy man in meeting his obligations.

Mr. Williams was married February 1, 1876, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary E. Rowland, a daughter of James K. and Margaret (Mc- Cluskey) Rowland, of Edinburg, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Williams died December 14, 1883, leaving a family of four children: Clara Maude, now the wife of William Evans, postmaster at Hubbard, Ohio; Asa C., Hugh R. and Ralph C.. Mr. Williams' youngest sister, Anna May Williams, has had charge of his household affairs since the death of his wife and has assisted in rearing the children.

Mr. Williams is a director in the Coshocton Brick Company, a director in the Pope-Gosser Company and a stockholder in the Meek Company. He is a republican in his political views and affiliations, and has served as a member of the city council and the board of health, while at the present writing he is a member of the board of education. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in Grace Methodist Episcopal church. He entered upon his varied duties with admirable equipment, being a practical builder of Coshocton.

Jesse Pritchard Forbes

Jesse Pritchard Forbes is numbered among the valued residents of Coshocton. He is a capitalist whose business ability is manifested in judicious investments, while his progressive citizenship has been evidenced in his active and helpful cooperation in many movements for the public good. His fellow townsmen have given proof of their belief in his ability and his loyalty to the general welfare by electing him their representative in the state legislature and in the senate. A man of active sagacity and strength of character, he has brought to a successful solution the problems which have confronted him in individual and public relations and his efforts have conserved the best interests of the commonwealth.

Mr. Forbes was born in Uhrichsville, Ohio, April 28, 1855. His father, Thomas J. Forbes, a native of the same locality, was a farmer by occupation and a leading and influential citizen in his community. In his business affairs he combined keen discrimination with unfaltering and well directed energy and thus achieved large success. He was descended from Scotch- Irish ancestors, early representatives of the family living in the north of Scotland, while later generations were represented on the Emerald Isle. From that point members of the family came to the United States. The religious faith of the family is that of the Presbyterian church. Thomas J. Forbes was united in marriage to Miss Clara Pritchard, a lady of Welsh lineage, who died November 26, 1873. Mr. Forbes long survived his wife, passing away July 10, 1902.

In the public schools of his native town Jesse Pritchard Forbes pursued his education until, passing through consecutive grades, he was graduated from the high school of Uhrichsville at the age of eighteen years. He also attended the New Hagerstown Academy in preparation for a course in Denison University at Granville, Ohio, where he remained as a student for some time. He studied law in the office and under the direction of G. H. Bargar, of Coshocton, in which city he arrived in 1878, and was admitted to practice in 1880. He has never been an active member of the profession, however, but his knowledge of the law has proven of marked benefit to him in the control of his private business affairs. His time and energies have largely been devoted to the management of his real-estate investments, which are large and profitable. He displays keen discrimination in the purchase and sale of property and, aside from residence and business property which he owns, he is largely interested in mines in Colorado, North Carolina, Missouri and other states, while in Coshocton he is officially as well as financially connected with the Broom & Hertig Company, as president and director.

Mr. Forbes is one of the most progressive of men, and that he stands for advancement in all lines is indicated not only in his association in affairs of prominence but also in minor matters; for example, he was the owner of the first typewriter, the first bicycle and the first automobile in Coshocton. He is an enthusiastic motorist and has been an extensive traveler on the North American continent, making twenty annual trips to the Rockies. He holds to the religious faith of the family, being a member of the Presbyterian church and he belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P.O. E. A stalwart advocate of democracy, he served for two terms as a member of the Ohio house of representatives, being elected in 1888 and 1890, while in 1892 he was chosen state senator. He did effective work in his opposition to the unprincipled methods of many politicians in crushing legislation that would have proved detrimental to the interests of the state.

On the 30th of December, 1879, Mr. Forbes was married to Miss Maria A. Hay, of Coshocton. He has always been a popular and progressive citizen here and while fortune has favored him in material ways, there are few men so democratic in spirit or so free from anything that partakes of the nature of ostentation or display. He is a broad reader and a student of the signs of the times, thoroughly conversant with the questions and issues of general interest and always abreast with the best thinking men of the age. Coshocton has profited by his labors in many directions, particularly in the fact that he always casts the weight of his influence upon the side of municipal progress, political, intellectual and moral advancement.

Henry Rehard

Henry Rehard, who is successfully engaged in the milling business at West Lafayette, was born in Oxford township, Coshocton county, Ohio, January 14, 1860, his parents being Joel and Hannah (Cole) Rehard. The father, also a native of this county, was reared on a farm and throughout his active business career carried on agricultural pursuits. He is now living retired at the age of seventy-three years, but still owns a fine farm in Oxford township and another in Linton township. By his first wife, who passed away forty years ago, he had the following children: Willis, of California; Frank, who resides in New Comerstown, Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Henry, of this review; Lucy, the wife of J. Loos, of Lafayette township; John, also a resident of New Comerstown; Leonard W. of Arizona; and Alfred of Oxford township. For his second wife Joel Rehard chose Miss Susan Atkinson, by whom he has four children, as follows: Noah, of West Lafayette; Perry, living in Canton, Ohio; Robert, a resident of Cleveland, Ohio; and Carl, of West Lafayette, Ohio.

Henry Rehard was reared on the home farm and acquired a commonschool education. In 1879 he left the parental roof and for nine months was employed in a store in Uhrichsville, Tuscarawas county, Ohio. Coming to West Lafayette in the fall of the same year, he here became connected with the livery business, which he successfully conducted for twenty years. Early in the year 1899, in partnership with William Garsline, he bought out the mill but after a year purchased his partner's interest and has since carried on the enterprise alone. He has modern steam roller mills and manufactures and ships flour, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. He is a stockholder in the West Lafayette Stamping & Enameling Works and in the West Lafayette Bank, and is widely recognized as a substantial and enterprising citizen of his native county.

On the 17th of August, 1884, Mr. Rehard was united in marriage to Miss Martha Loos, whose birth occurred in Oxford township in May, 1865, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Coulter) Loos, natives of Oxford township, where they are still living on a farm. They have three children, namely: Mary E., at home; Mrs. Rehard; and Perry, also on the home farm. Unto our subject and his wife has been born one child, Florence, who is at home.

In his political views Mr. Rehard is a stanch republican, and for two terms served as township treasurer. Having lived in this county throughout practically his entire life, he is well and favorably known here and: has gained the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact in business or social relations. He resides at West Lafayette in a beautiful home which he erected.

L. F. McVey, who for many years was prominent in various business circles of Coshocton county, is now living retired in a palatial residence in Walhonding, deriving a splendid income from five hundred and twelve acres of land, situated im New Castle township. Mr. McVey is a native son of the county, his birth having occurred at New Guilford, July 7, 1843, a son of Joseph 8. and Elnor (Crimble) McVey. The father's birth occurred near New Elderville, Pennsylvania, and he was brought to Coshocton county by his parents when but a child. For a few years he was engaged in milling in Scott county, Iowa, but eventually returned to Walhonding and purchased and conducted a mill at this place until the time of his death, which occurred in 1871. The mother was a native of the Buckeye state and by her marriage became ihe mother of nine children, as follows: one who died in infaney; L. F., of this review; William Franklin, a resident of California; Martha, the wife of J. R. Gamble, a miller of Walhonding; Emma, deceased; Catherine and Paulina, also deceased; John; and one who died in infancy.

L. F. McVey was educated in the schools in Walhonding, Delaware and Hayesville, Ohio. His boyhood and youth were spent under the parental roof, during which time he assisted his father in the mill. When he started upon an independent business venture he engaged in the general mercantile business in Walhonding for a few years, after which he removed to New Castle, where he carried on a similar enterprise for three years. He then took up farming in New Castle township, being thus engaged until three years ago, when he took up his abode in Walhonding, where he owns and occupies a beautiful residence, situated opposite the Sands Sanitarium. Mr. McVey is still the owner of five hundred and twelve acres of well improved and valuable land, situated in New Castle township, and from this he derives a good rental. While engaged in general agricultural pursuits he also made a specialty of raising blooded sheep and cattle and in this way accumulated considerable money.

Mr. McVey was married in 1871 to Miss Mary Ellen Butler, a resident of Coshocton county, who by her marriage has become the mother of five children, but the eldest, Paulina, died in infancy, those still surviving being: Joseph, a farmer of New Castle township; John C.; Catherine, the wife of C. M. Hay, of Coshocton; and Emeline, who is with her parents.

"Mr. McVey's study of the political issues and questions of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic partyy, and he has served as township treasurer. His fraternal relations are with the Masonic order at West Bedford and the Odd Fellows at Coshocton, while he is a social member of the Maccabees tent at Walhonding. Mrs. McVey is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. McVey is a most loyal and publicspirited citizen and in business circles has been conspicuous among his associates, not only for his success, but for his probity, fairness and honorable methods. In everything he has been eminently practical and this has been manifest not only in his business undertakings but also in his social and private life.

William Craig

William Craig, who now owns the old family homestead of one hundred and sixty-eight acres in Lafayette township, having bought out the interests of the other heirs, was born in a house near the one in which he now resides, October 8, 1869, the son of Andrew J. and Mary (Shurtz) Craig. The farm came into the possession of the family through his grandfather, Daniel Craig, who wedded Isabelle McCune. He came from Washington county, Pennsylvania, and located in Coshocton county about 1825. He first settled on Wills creek, but only remained there a short time, when he secured possession of the farm which our subject now owns. The place was so densely wooded that a spot had to he cleared on which to erect a log cabin. The logs for this purpose were hewed and shaped according to the custom of the times by the neighbors who were invited to the house-raising. They came for miles around, the occasion being one of celebration over the fact that a new home was being established in their midst, and on going home that night the woods resounded with their singing.

It was nine years later, or in 1834, that Andrew J. Craig, the father of our subject, was born in this woodland home. There he was reared, receiving as much of an education as was possible in those pioneer days. He aided his father in the work of cultivating the soil and devoted considerable attention to stock-raising. In early manhood he wedded Mary Shurtz, who was born in Hackettstown, New Jersey, in 1840, and they became the parents of three children, namely: Samuel, who resides in Wabash, Indiana; Isabelle, the wife of H. P. Beall, of West Lafayette; and William, of this review. The mother passed away in 1905, while the father survived her for one year, his death occurring in 1906. Both were faithful members of the Methodist Protestant church. Mr. Craig was a public-spirited citizen and a successful business man. He held the office of township trustee for one term.

William Craig received his education in the district school and has ever devoted his energies to the work of the farm, aiding his father during the days of his boyhood and youth and later sharing in its profits, until ultimately by close application to business and the practice of economy and selfdenial he was able to buy the interests of the other members of the family and obtain clear title to the place. He engages quite extensively in stockraising and the success which he has met in life has been well earned, containing no element of chance or good fortune, but due to faithful, persistent effort. =

On June 16, 1898, Mr. Craig was united in marriage to Miss Lottie, Vensel, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio. Her father died in 1902 at the age of sixty-five years. Her mother now resides in Newark and is sixty years of age. Mrs. Craig is the fifth in order of birth in a family of nine children. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Craig have been born two children, namely, Waldo and Eugene.

Politically, Mr. Craig is identified with the democratic party. He is an active worker for his party's interests and has served as township trustee for one term. Both he and Mrs. Craig are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are held in high esteem by the entire community.

Jacob D. Lower, M.D.

No line of life or avenue, of activity has undergone such complete revolution in recent years as has the practice of medicine and surgery. The advance made by the medical profession has been most marked and the work done seems almost phenomenal. However, it is based upon the most thorough scientific research and investigation, combined with broad skill and experience, and the man who wins success in this calling must be conversant with all the modern methods. Possessing all the requisite qualities of the successful physician, Dr. Lower has practiced in Coshocton with a large patronage. He was born near Baltic, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, July 8, 1863, and is a son of Henry and Mary (Deetz) Lower. The father followed the profession of teaching in early life, being identified with educational work for twenty years. He afterward turned his attention to farming, and though he is now largely living retired he yet makes his home upon a farm in Adams township, Coshocton county. He has reached the age of seventy- S1x years.

Reared under parental influence and discipline and educated in the common schools and the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, where he pursued a scientific course, Dr. Lower entered upon active business life well equipped for many of the cares and responsibilities which come. with the attainment of adult age. He took up teaching when a young man of eighteen years and followed the profession for eight years, but regarded this merely an initial step to other profesisonal labor, and during the latter part of his connection with educational work devoted his leisure hours and vacation periods to the study of medicine, reading under the direction of Dr. Snyder, who was then practicing at New Bedford, but is now deceased. In the fall of 1885 he entered the medical department of the University of Wooster at Cleveland, Ohio, and was graduated therefrom in the class of 1887. Following his graduation he began practice in Bakersville, this county, and soon secured a liberal patronage, remaining as an active representative of the profession there for nineteen years. With the desire to give his children better educational privileges as well as to secure a better field for his medical work he removed to Coshocton in 1906, and has here made a host of friends and built up a large practice. He pursued a course in the New York Post Graduate Medical School in 1891, and in 1907 pursued a post- -graduate course in the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He is therefore in close touch with the most advanced methods of the medical fraternity and further keeps in touch with the progress of the profession as a member of the Coshocton County Medical Society, of which he is now the secretary, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association.

Happily situated in his home life, Dr. Lower was married in 1886 to Miss Phoebe Bahmer, of Bakersville, Ohio, and they have two children: Mary Jovce and Hunter J. Dr. Lower belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 44, I. O. O. F., and to the Modern Woodmen of America. He votes with the democratic party, and gives evidence of his religious faith in his membership with and support of the Presbyterian church. He holds to high ideals in his profession, is conscientious in the performance of his daily duties and in his ministration to the sick he proves that his knowledge is of a practical as well as comprehensive nature.

Andrew J. Randles

Andrew J. Randles has gained a wide reputation as one of the most ex: tensive stock breeders and raisers of Coshocton county and is also a representative of one of the early pioneer families of this part of the Buckeye state. Mr. Randles was born in Jackson township, January 30, 1837, a son of John and Mary (Gellen) Randles. The father was a man of wonderful courage, energy and perseverance and became a prosperous farmer.

Andrew J. Randles, whose name introduces this review, pursued his studies in one of the old time log schoolhouses of Coshocton county, his advantages in this direction being rather meager, owing partly to the unsettled condition of the country and partly to the fact that his services were needed on the home farm. He established a home of his own, when on Christmas day of 1859 he wedded Miss Catherine Pearce, a daughter of William and Eliza Pearce, residents of Coshocton county.

Following their marriage the young couple began their domestic life upon a farm and in addition to éarrying on general agricultural pursuits Mr. Randles also gave his time to railroad construction and to stock buying, shipping to the Pittsburg and other eastern markets. In each line of activity he was successful. During the Civil war he bought horses for the government and in the spring of 1864 enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for one hundred days' service. When his term had expired he resumed his former lines of business and also became a breeder of fine stock and today enjoys a reputation for being the best stockman in this section of the state.

Mr. Randles gives his political support to the republican party and although he has frequently been urged to become a candidate for important county positions he has never consented to do so, feeling that his time is fully occupied with his varied business interests. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, and he maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Richard Lanning Post, G. A. R. During his lifetime he has performed many acts of charity and it is said of him that during the Civil war no soldier's family ever needed assistance that it was not generously rendered by Mr. Randles, although he always performed such deeds without ostentation or publicity. Through the exercise of his dominant powers - ambition, encrgy and industry - he has worked his way up and is now classed among the prosperous stockmen of Coshocton county.

Francis W. Bower

A well improved and highly developed farm of one hundred acres, situated in Jefferson township, is the home of Francis W. Bower. He was born in Wittenburg, Germany, December 9, 1851, and is the eldest in a family of nine children, seven sons and two daughters, born of the marriage of John G. and Catherine B. (Roth) Bower, who were likewise natives of the fatherland. The father was a blacksmith by_ trade and followed that occupation in his native land until 1853, when with his family he emigrated to the United States. He at once made his way to Coshocton county, where for fourteen years he followed his trade of a blacksmith. He then purchased land in Monroe township, to which he removed and here in connection with blacksmithing he carried on general farming until his death, which occurred in 1887, his remains being interred 'n the Lutheran Beaver Run cemetery of Jefferson township. The mother, however, still survives and makes her home in Monroe township. Their family consisting of nine children is as follows: Francis W., of this review; John, a farmer of Defiance, Ohio; Frederick, who follows farming in Monroe township; George, who is also a farmer, making his home in Henry county, Ohio; Minnie, the wife of William Baesler, a motorman on a street car line in Cleveland, Ohio; Jacob. who is on the home place with his mother; William, .a farmer of Monroe township; Mary, the wife of William Fox, who follows farming in Clark township, this county; and David, a resident farmer of Henry county, this state.

Francis W. Bower acquired his education in the district schools of Crawford township, but his advantages in this direction were somewhat limited, for from an early age it was necessary that he provide for his own support. When but nine years old he began work as.a farm hand, being thus employed during the summer months and when he attained his majority he left the parental home and was employed at farm labor for two years. He then rented land and engaged in farming on his own account. At the end of one year he purchased forty acres in Monroe township, which he cleared and developed and on which he erected a home. He then disposed of that property and once more rented land, operating one hundred acres in Monroe township for three years, at the end of which time he purchased his present place in Jefferson township, on which he has made his home to the present time. On this place stands a fine country home, surrounded by a well kept lawn, while in the rear are found substantial barns and outbuildings, all of which have been placed here by Mr. Bower. He is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and the success which he to-day enjoys is well deserved, for it has come to him through his own honorable effort, careful management and well directed labor.

Mr. Bower established a home of his own by his marriage in 1874 to Miss Priscilla Gamertsfelder, a resident of Jefferson township and a representative of one of the old and prominent families of this section of the state. Their marriage has been blessed with six children, namely: Harley William, now deceased; Bertha, the wife of Nicholas Fisher, a resident farmer of Jefferson township; Jacob W., of Clark township; and Emma, Roy and Albert, all at home.

Mr. Bower gives his political support to the democratic party and has been called by his fellow townsmen to fill some local offices, having for the past six years served as trustee of Jefferson township, while he is also a member of the school board. He is a member of the Evangelical church, in the work of which he takes a deep and active interest, having served as superintendent of the Sunday school and as class leader of the church. In the analyzation of his character and life work we note many characteristics which have marked the German race for many centuries - the perseverance, reliability and determination to pursue a course that has been marked out. It is these sterling qualities which have given to Francis W. Bower success in life and made him one of the substantial and valued citizens of Coshocton county.

David Noble

David Noble, who is extensively engaged in farming and stock-raising in Lafayette township, is a member of one of Coshocton county's old and prominent families, his grandfather having come into this country at an early date from Pennsylvania. He was born January 6, 1855, the son of John and Nancy (Waggoner) Noble, both of whom were natives of this county. His father was born in 1830 and died in 1881. The mother survived him for a number of years and passed away at the venerable age of seventy-five years. They were the parents of nine children, all of whom are now living.

David Noble is indebted to the district schools of the county for his education. He aided his father in the work of the farm until he was twentytwo years of age, at which time he began work as a farm hand for wages, an occupation which he followed for four consecutive years. About this time he got the western fever and hearing of unusual openings for young men of energy and enterprise beyond the Mississippi at the age of twenty-six he went to Nebraska. He investigated that region, also Kansas, Texas, Colorado and Wyoming territory, spending altogether four years in the western country, with the result that at the end of that time he returned to Ohio, congratulating himself upon his good fortune in having been born in that state and content to make it his permanent home in the future.

It is only fair to the western states which he visited, however, to state that it was not altogether an attraction towards his native country which drew him back, as following his return, on November 20, 1884, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth 8. McGuire, who was born on the farm where they now reside, November 7, 1851, the daughter of William and Mary (Schoenaker) McGuire. Her paternal grandfather came to Ohio from Virginia-in 1804 and located'in Coshocton county, where he purchased twelve hundred acres of land in 1806 and improved the place on which our subject now resides. Her father, William McGuire, was born in this county in 1807. He was twice married, his first wife being Mary Stonehocker. She died in 1842, leaving two children. Mr. McGuire was again married and two children were born to his second union. Of these children, Mrs. Noble is the only one yet living. Her father passed away in 1889 at the venerable age of eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Noble have become the parents of four children, two of whom, Nancy E. and an infant, they have lost by death. George and Francis reside at home with their parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Noble now own nine hundred acres of land in Lafayette and Keene townships, a large portion of which they rent. In addition to general farming they devote a great deal of attention to the raising of stock, horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, from which they derive a lucrative source of income.

In national politics Mr. Noble gives his unwavering support to the republican party but in local matters he votes for men and measures rather than for party. He has ever taken an active interest in educational affairs and has held various positions on the school board.

Russell C. Edwards, M.D.

Dr. Russell C. Edwards, who is successfully engaged in the practice of medicine in West Carlisle, is a native son of this village, born of the marriage of Dr. James T. and Sarah (Marquand) Edwards, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. The father was engaged in the practice of medicine in West Carlisle for many years, or until his death, which occurred July 2, 1905. The wife and mother had preceded him to the home beyond many years before, her death occurring July 3, 1889.

Russell C. Edwards was reared under the parental roof and acquired his early education in the schools of West Carlisle, this being supplemented by more advanced study in Muskingum College. Deciding upon the practice of medicine as a life work, to this end he matriculated in the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, prior to entering the College of Physicians and

Surgeons, at Baltimore, Maryland, from which he was graduated with the class of 1892. Returning to his home in West Carlisle, he remained with his father for a brief period and then located for practice in Coshocton, where he was continuously in practice until 1906, when he returned to West Carlisle and with his brother, Dr. Edwin 8. Edwards, succeeded to his father's practice. He is gradually gaining rank with the best physicians of this state and already has a large and lucrative practice which is constantly increasing.

Dr. Edwards was married June 14, 1893, to Miss Millie Frederick, a daughter of John G, and Amy Frederick, residents of Warsaw. The marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Edwards has been blessed with one son, Clifford F. The Doctor is a republican in his political views and affiliations and his fraternal relations are with the Elks lodge at Coshocton, while he keeps in touch with the progress and advancement of the medical profession through his membership in the State and County Medical Societies. In the line of his profession his ability and skill have been demonstrated in the successful handling of a number of complex problems, while in social circles he is also popular.

Edwin 8S. Edwards, M.D.

Dr. Edwin S. Edwards, who is engaged in practice with his brother, Russell C., was educated in the public schools of West Carlisle and in Dennison University. Upon reaching years of maturity he decided to enter the medical profession and with this end in view attended lectures at the' Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati and also at Cleveland, while he won his degree from the Baltimore Medical College in 1898. Be engaged in practice in West Carlisle with his father, with whom he remained until the latter's death in 1905, since which time he has been associated in practice, with his brother, Russell C.

Dr. Edwards is a republican in his political views and is highly esteemed both by the medical profession and by the public at large. He and his brother are owners of farm lands in Pike township, near West Carlisle, but they give their entire time and attention to their profession, in which they are meeting with well deserved success.

C. J. Brelsford is one of the younger representatives of the agricultural interests of Coshocton county and now owns and operates the old homestead farm, eonsisting of one hundred and four acres in Linton township. He was born in this county, July 29, 1861, a son of David and Catharine (Thomas) Brelsford, the former a native of Coshocton county. Their family numbered five children: Belle, deceased; Blanch, the wife of Benton Davis, of West Lafayette; Elma, the wife of Hiram Fowler, of Linton township; Major, of Coshocton; and C. J., of this review. Both the parents are deceased, the father passing away September 13, 1873, while the mother survived for about thirty years, passing to her final reward on the 29th of June, 1903.

C. J. Brelsford pursued his studies in the common schools and was reared to farming pursuits. He was a lad of twelve years when he lost his father, after which he was reared by his mother, remaining with her until he had reached the age of twenty-three years, during which time he managed the home farm. At that period in his life he was married to Miss Tilla Anderson Reed, who was also a native of Coshocton county, born December 3, 1862, and who was engaged in teaching for two years prior to her marriage. i.

Following his marriage Mr. Brelsford continued to operate the home farm until his mother's death, or in 1903, when he made purchase of the property, this comprising one hundred and four acres situated in Linton township. He keeps in touch with modern ideas of agriculture, and in his work is meeting with a good measure of success.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Brelsford has been blessed with four children, but the eldest, Clyde, is now deceased. hose living are: Edna B., the wife of Raymond McClain, of Linton township; Walter L.; who is ne in teaching school; and Racer R., at home. Mr. Brelsford ae his political support to the democratic party and at the present time is serving as township trustee and as school director, the cause of education finding in him a warm and helpful friend. His excellent traits of character inspire personal friendship of unusual strength and all who know him have for him high admiration 'and esteem, while his estimable wife also shares with him in the high regard in which he is uniformly held. They are also prominent in church circles, holding membership with the Methodist Episcopal denomination.

Rufus Kelly Merriam, M.D.

Rufus Kelly Merriam, M.D., a physician and surgeon of Coshocton, is a representative of one of the éld families of Ohio. His paternal grandparents, Charles and EKurie (Humphrey) Merriam, came from Connecticut to this state at an early date and established their homie in Morgan county, settling on a farm just west of Malta. There Charles Merriam engaged in buying cattle, which he drove over the mountains to the eastern markets. He was very successful in his work and with the proceeds of the business he later engaged in banking in McConnelsville, being for several years thus identified with the financial interests of the county. His later years were spent in an honorable retirement from business cares, and he passed away at the age of seventy-six years. His business enterprise, his progressive citizenship, his force of character and sterling worth made him one of the valued and representative residents of his community. His widow still survives him at the age of ninety-one years and still lives in McConnelsville. She is a remarkably well preserved woman, being able to do the finest needlework.

Their son, Albert G. Merriam, was born on the home farm near Mc- Connelsville, May 7, 1843, and in his youth was trained to the work of the fields, He acquired a good English education and on attaining manhood entered his father's bank. For-years he was a factor in the banking circles of McConnelsville, conducting one of the substantial and successful institutions of that city. Eventually, however, he returned to agricultural life, taking up his abode on a farm of five hundred and eighty acres in Muskingum county, about fourteen miles south of Zanesville, where he resided for thirty years. He was a most successful farmer as well as a capable financier, and his careful management of his business affairs placed him among the men of affluence in his community. In politics he was a stanch republican, giving unfaltering support to the principles of that party. For the benefit of the health of himself and his wife he went to Virginia, where he died September 7, 1905. In early manhood he had married Harriet F. Kelly, who yet makes her home in McConnelsville. Her father, Joseph Kelly, was one, of the pioneer settlers of Morgan county and bored the first salt well there under what is known as the '"'Devil's Tea Table." In later years he was classed with the most promising and enterprising merchants and business men of McConnelsville, so utilizing his opportunities and employing his native talents and powers that he gained a leading position in business circles. He was, moreover, a very popular man and on one occasion came within a single vote of being elected to the state legislature, although the office was entirely unsolicited. His wife bore the maiden name of Electa Bingham Chandler, and was a representative of the old De Bingham family of Massachusetts that traces its ancestry back to Miles Standish and even to a more remote period, and is connected with many families that figured prominently in revolutionary times.

Dr. Rufus K. Merriam, son of Albert G. and Harriet F. (Kelly) Merriam, was born in McConnelsville, Ohio, August 12, 1869. At the usual age he was sent to the public schools and in 1887 matriculated in the Ohio State University, where he remained as a student for two years. He thus secured broad literary knowledge, which served as a foundation upon which to rear the superstructure of professional learning. He began reading medicine with Dr. John M. Dunham, of Columbus, as his preceptor, and in the fall of 1890 he entered the Columbus Medical College, which was later merged into the Starling Ohio Medical University. He was graduated from the latter institution in the class of 1892. As he was then in poor health he did not make a definite location for some months but eventually opened an office at Merriam station, where he remained in active practice for two and a half years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Peoria, Illinois, where he was advantageously located as the associate in practice of Dr. Paul Dombrowski. After practicing there for some time his health again failed and he was compelled to discontinue his professional labors. He then returned home and afterwards spent fourteen months in Guernsey county, Ohio, attending to the practice of another physician. Following this he located at Keene, Coshocton county, where he erected a residence and remained in practice for two years, but wishing for broader scope for his labors he removed to the city of Coshocton in 1902, and in the intervening years has built up a practice which attests the fact that he is recognized as one of the best informed and most capable physicians and surgeons of the city. He has always been a close student of his profession and his success further lies in his ability to correctly apply his knowledge to the needs of his patients. In 1900 Dr. Merriam was married to Miss Viola M. Severns, of Milnersville, Guernsey county, Ohio. They are well known socially in Coshocton and Dr. Merriam is numbered among the valuable members of the Modern Woodmen of America and the fraternal order of Eagles, serving at the present time as physician of the local aerie. His political allegiance is given to the republican party. In his professional service he is prompted by a laudable ambition to work his way upward and is always actuated by humanitarian principles that are manifest in a ready and helpful sympathy.

William W. Cantwell

This is an age of advancement as manifest in our national affairs and in individual interests. The great majority of American citizens are working upward in specific lines, utilizing their opportunities to good advantage, and a single instance of this fact is found in the life of W. W. Cantwell, the president of the Coshocton Shoe Company. He was born in Coshocton, June 11, 1854, his parents being Hezekiah and Mary (Rundles) Cantwell. The father, a native of this county, spent his entire life here and in early manhood learned the tailor's trade, carrying on business along this line for many years in Coshocton, where he was classed with the reliable and substantial merchants.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for William W. Cantwell in his boyhood days. The sports of the playground and the field claimed his attention and divided his time with the work of the schools wherein he, pursued his studies through consecutive grades until he became a high-school student. His first salaried position was that of hodcarrier, carrying brick for the building in which he now does business, little thinking that at some future day he would be installed there as the head of one of the leading commercial enterprises of the city. His second position made him a clerk in a shoe store, where he remained for ten years, his long service plainly indicating his capability and his fidelity to the interests of his employers.. For eight years he occupied the position of salesman in the store of Dave & Ike, and for two years he was with S. Robinson. On the failure of this employer Mr. Cantwell and C. L. Walker purchased the stock and for ten years successfully carried on the business under the firm name of Walker & Cantwell, at the expiration of which period Mr. Cantwell purchased his partner's interest and on the 8th of December, 1904, the Cantwell Shoe Company was organized and incorporated. Mr. Cantwell became president of this company, which now owns and controls the leading shoe house of the city. The business has grown from a small beginning to an enterprise of extensive proportions, enjoying large annual sales, while the. trade is constantly increasing.

In 1887 Mr. Cantwell was married to Miss Belle Finnel, of Coshocton, and they have three. children: Fred, who is in the store With his father; and Catherine and Edna, at home. The parents hold membership with the. Presbyterian church, in which Mr. Cantwell is serving as trustee. He is independent in politics, endorsing, however, that movement, which is one of the hopeful signs of the, times, toward a cleaner politics. Many substantial citizens, aroused to indignation by methods which have been employed, have fesrlocely announced themselves in supoprt of an independent movement which will secure honest and capable men in office, and with such a movement Mr. Cantwell is in hearty sympathy. His rise in the business world has brought him from a humble position to one of prominence. His connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it is in his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever he is associated with. He has earned for himself an enviable reputation as a careful man of business, and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods, Higelt have won him the deserved and unbounded confidence of his fellowmen.

James Moore

Farming has characterized the labors of James Moore throughout his entire business career and he is now the owner of 'a well improved tract of land in Washington township, where he is engaged in general agricultural pursuits, stock-raising and fruit- growing. He was born in Pike township, November 20, 1848, a son of James, Sr., and Jennette (Patton) Moore. The father was born in Ireland, whence he Seni eeatea to the United States when a young man and engaged in farming in Coshocton county.

James Moore, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, early being trained to the various duties that fall to the lot of the farmer boy. He pursued his studies in the district schools, wherein. he mastered the common branches of English learning. When he started out in life on his own account he engaged in farming and this has been his occupation to the present time. He also raises stock to some extent and gives a portion of his time to the raising of fruit, each branch of his business proving profitable. His tract of land embraces eighty-five acres and is improved with good and substantial outbuildings, while the fields have been placed under a high state of cultivation.

Mr. Moore was married April 4, 1874, the lady of his choice being Miss Sarah E. Miller, a daughter of John and Nancy (Lyons) Miller. Three children have been born of this marriage but the eldest, Lula Belle, is now deceased. The living members are Stella P. and Nella E.

Mr. Moor gives his volitical support to the democratic party, and while he keeps well informed on the political progress of the country, he has never been active as an office seeker, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his private business interests. He is a member of the Presbyterian church. He, thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and friends. He is always courteous, kindly and affable and those who know him personally have for him warm regard.

George W. Compton

George W. Compton, who is a worthy representative of one of the prominent pioneer families of Coshocton county, is also one of the largest landowners and most successful farmers of Jackson township. He was born in this township, November 10, 1854, a son of John D. and Mary (McFarland) Compton, the latter of Irish parentage. The father was a native of Culpeper county, Virginia, his parents making the overland.journey to Coshocton county in 1831, thus becoming numbered among its earliest pioneer settlers. Both the parents are now deceased, the father passing away January 17, 1893, while the mother, surviving for only a few years, passed away in Pobruary, 1896.

George W. Compton pursued his studies in the public schools of Roscoe and was reared upon the homestead farm, early being trained in the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He has followed farming as a life work and is today one of the wealthiest landowners of Jackson township, owning and operating two hundred and seventy acres. He is successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits and each year harvests rich crops as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields. His suecess, too, has been acquired only through the most honorable and straight- ' forward methods and all who have business dealings with him know him to be a man of strict integrity and honor.

Mr. Compton has been three times married. His first union was with Miss Colonia Darling, their marriage being celebrated September 10, 1876. She was the daughter of Wilson and Barbara (Frederick) Darling, both of whom were natives of Germany. Mrs. Compton survived her marriage for only a few years, passing away August 3, 1883. Mr. Compton was again married in September, 1890, the lady of ote choice being Susanna Love, a daughter of John F. and Margaret (Cunningham) Love, residents of Holmes county, this state. This union was blessed with three children: Luella; Frank A.; and Irene, who is a teacher in the Coshocton schools. The wife and mother passed from this life on the 6th of July, 1898, and on the 14th of October of the following year Mr. Compton was again married, this union being with Calenza Carr, a daughter of Andrew and Susanna (Love) Carr, and this union has also been blessed with three children, Nellie E., Wilma and Theodore R.

Mr. Compton's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has served as township trustee for several terms and also as a member of the school board, while he also acted as judge of election for a number of years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Having always made his home in Jackson township he has a wide and favorable acquaintance in this section of the state. The terms progress and patriotism might be considered the keynote of his character, for throughout his career he has labored along lines that have brought him the greatest good, while he has also been actuated by a fidelity to his country and her welfare.

Thomas W. Culbertson

Thomas W. Culbertson well deserves mention in this volume as one of the representative farmers and business men of the county. For many years he was active in business life, but he is now living retired, making his home in Isleta. His diligence and enterprise in former years brought to him the measure of success which now enables him to rest from further labor. He has passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey, his birth having occurred in Coshocton county, November 25, 1836. He represents one of the oldest and best known pioneer families, for the Culbertsons have long been connected with the development and progress of the county - since the early days when they aided in reclaiming the wild land and converted it into attractive farms.

The paternal grandfather of Thomas W. Culbertson was a soldier in the war of 1812 and died when his son Alexander was but six years of age. The latter was born in this county, August 20, 1809, and following his father's death was reared by his uncle, who came to Ohio from Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, about 1812 or 1815. Coshocton county was then largely an unsettled and unimproved district. The forests were uncut, the prairies uncultivated and the streams unbridged. Many wild animals still roamed in the woods and it was not an unusual thing for Mr. Culbertson, the greatuncle of our subject, to stand in his own doorway and shoot deer and turkeys. Indians also visited the neighborhood and there were. still many evidences of the occupancy of this district by the red men. Alexander Oulbertson was reared amid the wild scenes of pioneer life. During his boyhood and early manhood the homes of the neighborhood were largely log cabins and much of the cooking was done over the old-time fireplace, while tallow candles were used for lighting purposes. As the years passed by Alexander engaged in farming, making that occupation his life work. He married Elizabeth Wilson, who was born September 17, 1809, in this county, also a representative of one of its oldest families. They became the parents of nine children: Ann J., deceased; Mary, the widow of L. Fletcher and a resident of Tuscarawas county ; Robert W., deceased; Thomas W.; Margaret, deceased ; James H., who was born in 1840 and is living in Union county, Towa; David R., ae was born in 1843 and resides in Columbus this state ; Aaron £., from rhea no news has been received since 1867; and E. Isabel, the wife of James Early, of Tuscarawas county. The father died May 8, 1859, having for about six and a half years survived his wife, who pated away September 10, 1852. Of their children, Margaret died Desaniber 28, 1859, and R. W. diéa April 26, 1866. The five, brothers all served as soldier a the civil war and were loyal defenders of the Union cause.

Thomas W.. Culbertson was reared on the home farm and early became familiar with the work of the fields. He continued with his father until he attained his majority and then bought a farm in Oxford township of one hundred acres. He owns this property to the present time and lived upon it until about six years ago, when he retired and removed to Isleta. He was an industrious, energetic man, who faithfully performed his duties day by day, and as the years advanced he won prosperity, resulting from his diligence and careful management. He cultivated his fields according to the modern methods of farming, securing the latest improved machinery and practiced the rotation of crops.

The only interruption to his business career up to the time of his retirement came in 1864, when he enlisted as a soldier of the Civil war, becoming a member of Company E, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which he was made corporal. He afterward reenlisted as a member of Company A, Eighty-eighth Regiment of Ohio Infantry and was mustered out at the close of the war. After the war he returned home and resumed farming, in which he continued successfully until his labors have brought him sufficient capital to enable him to retire and yet enjoy the comforts of life.

On the 15th of September, 1859, Mr. Culbertson was married to Miss Martha J. Rehard, a native of this county, and one of the six children of Leonard and Catharine Rehard. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Culbertson were born eight children: Elsworth, who was born in 1861, but has now passed away; Clara G., who was born March 31, 1864, and is the wife of V. E. Leighinger, of Tuscarawas county; Robert Walter, who was born May 25, 1867, and is living in Tuscarawas county; Leona, the wife of George T. Mulvain, also of Tuscarawas county; Charles, who was born, in 1879 and is now deceased; Lucy E., the wife of C. M. Henderson, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Ora O., the wife of H. B. Denser, a resident of Coshocton; and Albert B., who was born January .2, 1884, and is yet at home. The wife and mother died June 18, 1886, at the age of forty-six years, and on the 3d of October, 1889, Mr. Culbertson married Mrs. Thomas H. Wellard, a widow and a Meuehter of Benjamin R. and Henrietta (Ricketts) Shaw. Her father was a native of Maryland and came. to Coshocton, county, at a very early date. Mrs, Shaw was born in Muskingum county, Ohio. Her family numbered eight children, of whom four are living: Nettie W., now the wife of R. Handlan, of

Coshocton; Charles E., who is superintendent of the largest axle works in Pennsylvania; Frank R., a merchant of Scranton, Pennsylvania; and Anna B., the wife of E. O. Gates, of Candor, New York. Two daughters, Agnes and Mary Wellard, have passed away.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Culbertson are members of the Baptist church and take an active interest in its work and upbuilding. Mr. Culbertson is now serving as one of the deacons and contributes generously to the support of the church. His political allegiance is given the republican party, which he has continuously supported since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, and in all matters of citizenship he is as true and loyal as when he followed the old flag upon southern battlefields.

James M. Burt

The history of Coshocton county would be incomplete and unsatisfactory were there failure to make reference to James Madison Burt. He came in pioneer times and for a long period was identified with business interests and public progress in the community. His birth occurred in Orange county, New York, December 11, 1810, and he was reared and educated in the east. When he was twenty-four years of age he was married on the 15th of April, 1834, to Miss Mary Ann Bradner, who was born December 20, 1818, and was also a native of Orange county, New York. They began their domestic life in that county and it continued to be their home for several years.

James M. Burt, however, left Orange county and sought the west to assist in the Indian warfare, but when he arrived at Buffalo, New York, he learned that hostilities had ceased. He was in possession of a Revolutionary war land grant which had come to him from a relative, and thinking this would be a good opportunity to take up his claim, he continued his journey from Buffalo westward to Ohio and took up some, government land located in Bedford township, Coshocton county. He then returned to the state of New York for his''family and on the 24th of October, 1836, they left their old home in the Empire, state, journeying westward by way of a two-horse wagon, in which he brought his household goods, wife and daughter Margaret. They arrived in Coshocton county on the 9th of November. Here the father built a home in the midst of the green woods in Bedford township, where they resided until April, 1837, when he purchased land in Lafayette township and removed his family to the new farm. There he carried on the arduous task of developing hitherto uncultivated land, clearing away the timber and brush, breaking the sod and carrying on the farm work year after year, his labor being attended with a measure of success that made him one of the prosperous citizens of the community. In May, 1878, he left the farm and removed to New Comerstown, where he made his home until his death.

In the pioneer home upon the farm Mr. and Mrs. Burt reared their family, numbering twelve children, namely: Margaret, James B., Martha A., Daniel and Caroline, all now deceased; Harriet, wife of J. L. Rogers, of West Lafayette; Clara, deceased; Louis P., who resides in Coshocton; two who died in infancy; Mary, who also passed away in infancy; and William, a resident of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.

While active and energetic in his business life, Mr. Burt also found time for cooperation in community affairs and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, frequently called him to public office. In 1844 he was elected justice of the peace and his decisions were strictly fair and impartial so that he "won golden opinions from all sorts of people."' In 1848 he was called to higher official honors, being elected to the state legislature, and that his first term's service received the endorsement of all the community was indicated in his reelection for a second term. In 1850 he was also elected associate judge and continued to fill the position until the office was abolished by the constitution. For many years, however, he was almost continuously in office, being elected a member of the board of equalization from Coshocton and Tuscarawas counties in 1859-60. In 1865 he was elected a member of the state senate and was reelected in 1871 so that he served for two terms in the higher house of the general assembly where he gave earnest consideration to each question which came up for settlement and left the impress of his individuality upon the legislation enacted during that period.

Such in brief is the history of one of Coshocton county's pioneer settlers. He was numbered among those who aided in laying broad and deep the foundation for the present development and progress of the county and, as the years went by, he bore his full share in the work of the government. All who knew him learned to respect and honor him because of his fidelity to high and manly principles, and when he passed away in 1893 his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His wife died six years later.

Benjamin F. Burklew

Benjamin F. Burklew, who owns and operates a well improved farm of eighty acres situated in Monroe township, is numbered among the substantial farmers of this section of the state. He was born on the farm on which he now resides, October 15, 1848, a son of William H. and Martha J. (McBride) Burklew. The father was born in Monongalia county, Virginia, and accompanied his parents to Ohio when a youth of seventeen years. Following his marriage, he settled on a farm in Monroe township and here spent his remaining days. His family numbered the following children: Ann Jane, the widow of John Foster; Louise E., the widow of Rev. James Williams, of Medina county, Ohio; F. M., who is postmaster at Killbuck; Sarah E., the wife of W. H. Sparr, of Oklahoma; William M., a teacher in the, Millersburg high school; Benjamin F., of this review; Catherine, the widow of Thomas

Benjamin F. Burklew acquired his education in the district schools of Monroe township and was reared on the farm to the age of fifteen years, when he enlisted for service in the Civil war, becoming a member of Company I, Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for three years' service. He participated in the battles of Columbus, Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville and Chattanooga, and in May, 1864, went with the company on the Georgia campaign, the opening battle being at Tunnel Hill, after which he took part in the battles of Rocky Face and Buzzards Roost. He was in every battle on the campaign and went back to Nashville with General Thomas, where he was struck with a cannon ball, the left arm being entirely torn away at the elbow joint. After the accident he walked a quarter of a mile to the hospital, where the arm was amputated. He spent two months in the hospital and then went home on a furlough, and later reported for service at Columbus. Prior to this he was, on the 27th of June, 1864, overcome with the heat and lay on the open field without food or shelter until the 3d of July, when he was found and he did not recover consciousness until the following morning. He received his discharge at Columbus, having made a most creditable military record.

After his return from the war Mr. Burklew returned to his home in Coshocton county and entered the schools of Spring Mountain, subsequent to which time he pursued a course in the Danville schools in Knox county. After completing his education he engaged in teaching in the district schools, following that vocation for about four years, but on account of his health he had to do work that would take him in the open air and it was then he took up general agricultural pursuits. He now owns and operates eighty acres of land in Monroe township, on which he has placed many improvements and has made it a valuable property. He has ever followed the most honorable and straightforward business methods and therefore commands the high regard of his fellowmen.

Mr. Burklew chose as companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Sophronia Thomas, a resident of Columbiana county, Ohio, their marriage being celebrated in the year 1871. Their union has been blessed with six children, as follows: Roy T., a railroad man of Portland, Oregon; Howard L., who owns a timber claim near Portland and makes his home at Butler, Oregon; William H., who is a designer, cutter and manufacturer of ladies' wearing apparel in Montreal, Canada; Clyde M., who is associated with our subject in farming; Adella, the wife of B. C. Brillhart, a resident farmer of Monroe township; and Dena, who has passed away. Mr. Burklew has given to his children good educational advantages and for five years resided in Millersburg that they might enjoy the privileges of the schools at that place, and all the sons have attended college, Clyde M. having been admitted to the bar.

Mr. Burklew gives his political support to the republican party and takes a deep and active interest in political affairs. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum at Millersburg and of Grand Army Post at that place, while" his wife is a member of the Disciples church. In everything Mr. Burklew is eminently practical and this has been manifest not only in his business undertakings, but also in social and private life.

Mathew Crawford

Mathew Crawford is accounted one of the promanent and honored residents of Warsaw, where he is engaged in dealing in live stock, and where he has lived for the past year. He is also the owner of a valuable farm of one hundred and seventy-six acres situated in Bethlehem township and from this he derives a good rental. Mr. Crawford is a native son of Bethlehem township, Coshocton county, his birth having occurred February 5, 1855. The paternal grandfather was born in Ireland, coming of Scotch-Irish extraction. Upon his emigration to the new world he located in Crawford township, Coshocton county, and here spent his remaining days, passing away in 1837.

His son, James Bothwell Crawford, the father of our subject, was born on the homestead farm in Crawford township, this county, where he spent his early life as a farmer. Later he located in Bethlehem township, where he owned a farm of one hundred and fifty acres, and there, he remained until his death. He was a republican in his political views and religiously was an Episcopalian. He died in 1875, at the comparatively early age of fifty-two years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Martha McConnell, was a native of the Emerald Isle and was a Presbyterian in her religious belief. She survived her husband for about five years, her death occurring in 1880. She was the mother of seven children: John, who died at the age of seven years; one who died in infancy; James, who died when a young man of twenty-one years; Mathew, of this review; Samuel L., who follows farming in Bethlehem township; Mary E., who died in 1894; and one who died in infancy.

Mathew, the elder of the two surviving sons of the father's marriage, was educated in the district schools of Bethlehem township and in the Coshocton high school. He was reared to the occupation of farming, giving his time and attention to that pursuit during the summer months, while in the winter seasons he engaged in teaching. He remained under the parental roof until 1880, when he purchased one hundred and seventy-six acres of land in Bethlehem township. He then located thereon, giving his time to the further development and improvement of the property, while each year he raised large crops of wheat, corn and oats. He also gave much time to buying, feeding and shipping stock, his first.carload being shipped in 1878, and from that time to the present he has continued in this business. His long experience in this line has made him an excellent judge of stock and he is therefore able to make judicious purchases and profitable sales. In 1907 he took up his abode in the city of Warsaw, where he owns a nice modern residence, while his business interests are being conducted in a capable manner.

Mr. Crawford was married in 1880 to Miss Camilla E. Darling, a daughter of Wilson and Barbara (Frederick) Darling. Her father was a farmer of Bethlehem township but is now deceased. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Crawford has been blessed with two daughters: Bessie C., the wife of James 8. Walker, a prominent farmer of Jefferson township; and Frankie May, the wife of R. E. Clark, a jeweler of Warsaw and a son of the treasurer of Coshocton county.

Mr. Crawford gives stalwart support to the republican party and is prominent in political. circles. 'His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Crawford is a representative of our best type of American manhood and chivalry. By perseverance, determination and honorable effort he has overthrown the obstacles which barred his path to success and reached the goal of prosperity, while his genuine worth, broad mind and public spirit have made him a director of public thought and action.

Joseph Scherrer

Joseph Scherrer, residing on section 17, Linton township, was born in France on the 5th of October, 1833, his parents being Jacob and Elizabeth (Hersch) Scherrer, the former a native of France and the latter of Germany. The father, whose birth occurred in 1794, celebrated his marriage in France and in 1835 emigrated to America with his wife, the ocean voyage covering six weeks. After landing in New York they made their way to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where the father worked as a laborer in a brickyard, while the older children were employed in a cotton mill. In 1840 Jacob Scherrer came to Coshocton county, Ohio, purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of timber land, on which he erected a round log house and where he made his home until called to his final rest when eighty-four years of age. He had met with success in his farming operations and at the time of his death owned two hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land. His wife, whose had occurred in 1802, was seventy-seven years of age when she passed away in the faith of the German Catholic church, of which he was also a devoted member. Unto this worthy couple were born ten children, namely: Mrs. Mary Weaver, of Coshocton, Ohio; Joseph, of this review; Eva, the widow of Joseph Bordenkircher, of Coshocton, Ohio; Elizabeth, the wife of Jacob Bordenkircher, also a resident of Coshocton, Ohio; Sebastian, living in Brown county, Illinois; and five who are deceased.

Joseph Scherrer was two years of age when brought by his parents to this country and was a lad of seven years when he aceompanied them on their removal to Coshocton county, Ohio. He acquired his education in a little old log schoolhouse with puncheon floor and other primitive furnishings, and assisted his father in the work of the home farm. On the 5th of February, 1865, he enlisted as a member of Company K, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of hostilities. - On returning from the war he continued the operation of the homestead farm and after his parents died he purchased the place and is still its owner. He now rents the farm, which, as before stated, comprises two hundred and eighty acres of finely improved land.

In 1854 Mr. Scherrer was united in marriage to Miss Maria Bordenkircher, also a. native of France, whose demise occurred in 1900. Her parents, John and Katharine (Ashbaker) Bordenkircher, were both natives of Germany and emigrated to America about 1830. The grandfather purchased land, built a cabin with a clapboard roof and puncheon floor and lived in the same for several years. John Bordenkircher owned one hundred and fifty-nine acres at the time of his death, and both he and his wife passed away in the same year. Their family numbered twelve children, namely: John, Jr., Mary Ann, Rachel, Maria and Joseph, all of whom are deceased ; Jacob, of Coshocton; George, who died while serving as a soldier in the Civil war; David, of Mount Sterling, Illinois; Magdaline, likewise a resident of Mount Sterling, Illinois; Wendell, of Linton township; Bernard; and William, deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Scherrer were born eleven children, as follows: John, of Coshocton, Ohio; Mary, the wife of John Ackerman, of Pittsburg; William, who has passed away; George, Ella, and Elizabeth, all residents of Coshocton, Ohio; Andrew, at home; Ambrose, of Coshocton, Ohio; Eva, at home; Clemens, living in Indiana; and Catherine, the wife of F. Davy, of Coshocton county.

In his political views Mr. Scherrer is a stalwart democrat and has served as township trustee, land appraiser and road supervisor, ever discharging his public duties in prompt and capable manner. He has also held several school offices, the cause of education finding in him a strong champion. He and his family are all members of the Catholic church. Having been a resident of this county for sixty-eight years, he is largely familiar with its annals from a pioneer period down to the present time, and in the successful conduct of his agricultural interests has gained a measure of prosperity that now entitles him to representation with the substantial and enterprising citizens of the community.

Dr. S. H. Lee, deceased, was born January 16, 1820, in the city of Coshocton. He acquired his preliminary education under the instruction of a lady whom his father and three other gentlemen of the neighborhood had employed to teach their children, and later he became a member of the freshman class at Kenyon College in 1838, being there a classmate of Rutherford B. Hayes, afterward president of the United States. The) succeeding year he joined the sophomore class at Marietta College and was graduated in 1842. Following the completion of his literary course he returned home and took up the study of medicine under the direction of his father, afterward pursuing a course of lectures in New York city. He was graduated from the New York Medical College in 1845 and entered upon the practice of his profession at

Canal Dover, where he remained for four years. He next located at Peru, Indiana, and there secured a liberal patronage, for he soon gave proof of his ability to cope successfully with the complex problems that continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and prolong life, On leaving Peru he returned to Coshocton, where he remained continuously with the exception of two years spent as a surgeon in the United States army.

When the country was involved in Civil war Dr. Lee was commissioned assistant surgeon of the Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, after which he served as contract surgeon, while in 1864 he was commissioned surgeon of the One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio National Guard. In 1865 he returned home and established the drug business in Coshocton. He always enjoyed a high reputation for commercial integrity as well as enterprise. He died in November, 1896.

William A. Himebaugh

No name in recent years has figured more prominently or honorably in connection with the rapid commercial and industrial development of Coshocton than has that of William A. Himebaugh. At the same time he is recognized as one of the able lawyers at the bar of this district and, moreover, in his home city enjoys the friendship and kindly regard which are given him by reason of an unfailing courtesy and unassumed cordiality. Always genial; he is ever willing to extend to any one the courtesy of an interview and at the same time, when business matters are under consideration, he is found as a most alert, energetic man, whose habits of thought and ready understanding enable him to place a correct valuation upon any business situation.

Mr. Himebaugh, never seeking in foreign fields the opportunities for advancement, confined his efforts to his native city with the result that while he has achieved notable success, Coshocton has also largely benefited by his efforts. He was born here in the year 1857 and was about four years of age when his parents removed to a farm near Chili, this county. There he was reared and rural surroundings in close communion with nature in her simpler forms, his preliminary education being acquired in the district schools, while in the school of experience he also learned many valuable lessons. He afterward spent three years as a student in Mount Union College and thus with good literary education to serve as a basis for professional knowledge, he took up the study of law in the offices of Nicholas & James, leading attorneys of Coshocton. In 1885 he was admitted to the bar and has since remained a member of the profession in this city. During the first five years of his practice he was-associated with J. M. Compton and since that time has been alone. His knowledge of the law is comprehensive and exact and he is rarely, if ever, at fault in the application of a legal principle. He has figured as counsel for the prosecution or defense in many important cases that have appeared before the Coshocton courts but in nore recent years he has confined his attention largely to the development of industrial and commercial enterprises. In these the city has been a large indirect beneficiary, the present material standing of Coshocton being attributable in no small degree to his efforts. Among the various enterprises which owe a prosperous existence to him is the Coshocton Light, Heat & Power Company, of which he is now the president and general manager, with C. J. Bowen as vice president and J. D. Severns as secretary and treasurer. This company is capitalized for two hundred and fifty thousand dollars and has a perpetual franchise for doing an electric lighting business, at the same time holding a contract with the city for street lighting. The heating department was installed in 1901, utilizing what is known as the Schott system of hot water heating. The energy and business insight of Mr. Himebaugh have largely been the factors which have placed this institution upon a substantial basis. It is now recognized as one of the most important concerns of the city and its usefulness is continually increasing.

Another enterprise which is claiming the attention and energies of Mr. Himebaugh and will result in almost immeasurable benefit to the city is the development of Coshocton's water power. In this age of electrical activity it has become a recognized fact that the most important element toward the generation of electric power is a fall of water. Electricity thus generated is much less expensive than that produced through fuel and scientists and capitalists are fully alive to the fact of the great advantages which can be secured where there is a natural water fall. For some time Mr. Himebaugh has recognized Coshocton's possibilities in this direction but the deterring factor was the old Ohio canal system. In the early days the state had preempted the water rights for canal purposes but since the advent of rail transportation these have been idle and sluggish. Private enterprise could not proceed, for the state had no fixed policy for its canals, but the legislature of 1904 settled the question on a basis which guarantees its adequate improvement and a permanent policy. Under the new law the state board of public works commenced the improvement of the canal on a mammoth scale and where these improvements give commercial value to the water power made available, the state board is turning the asset to the advantage of the people through long time leases of the water rights. This brought about Mr. Himebaugh's opportunity for utilizing the water power at Coshocton and although various delays have occurred, owing to the letting of contracts by the state, Mr. Himebaugh is now making extensive plans for furthering the interests of the Coshocton Heat, Light & Power Company through the water rights which he has secured. avariots corporate interests have benefited by the stimulus of his cooperation, including the Home Building & Savings Company, of which he is secretary, and the Coshocton National Bank, of which he is a director. He is a stockholder in the Coshocton Glove Company; is vice president of the Vail Company; and is interested in other business enterprises, being a man of unusual executive ability and sound judgment.

Lewisville. They have one son, known in the family as William III. The Himebaugh residence is one of the most beautiful homes of Coshocton, located at the corner of Orange and Seventh streets and standing in the midst of a fine lawn. It is, moreover, attractive by reason of its warm-hearted hospitality and is the scene of many delightful social functions.

Mr. Himebaugh is interested in everything pertaining to Coshocton's welfare, is serving as a member of the board of trustees of the public library and gives his active aid and cooperation to various movements which work for the city's upbuilding. In all of his public and business relations he has manifested an ability of seeing to the very center of things and from the center to the outmost circumference of their possibilities. He has learned to correctly value life's contacts and experiences, to put a just estimate upon his own powers and to realize what may be accomplished through a combination of forces; but while preeminently a business man, his time largely occupied by his professional and industrial interests, he is a genial, companionable gentlemen, who always has a cordial word and warm hand grasp for his friends, the number of whom is almost coextensive with the number of his acquaintances.

E. D. Porter, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Keene township, was born in Adams township, Coshocton county, Ohio, September 17, 1866, his parents being William and Eliza J. (Stark) Porter. The father, whose birth occurred in Jefferson county, Ohio, March 5, 1824, was a son of John and Margaret (Dinsmore) Porter and was reared to the pursuits of the farm, remaining in the county of his nativity until thirty years of age. At that time he came to Coshocton county and here carried on farming and stock-raising throughout the femainder of his active business career. By dint of untiring industry and careful management he met with a gratifying measure of prosperity in his undertakings, owning a valuable and well improved farm of three hundred acres. On the 20th of February, 1852, in Jefferson county, he wedded Miss Eliza J. Stark, born September 29, 1827, a daughter of James and Elizabeth (McGee) Stark and a granddaughter of James and Elizabeth McGee, who were natives of Scotland. William Porter, the father of our subject, was called to his final rest in 1900 but the mother still survives, now making her home in Keene township. Their family numbered seven children, namely: Curtis C., of Mill Creek township; Frank H., a resident of Keene township; Wiley B., living in Missouri; Mary, the wife of Joseph M. Richie; Benton P. and Ross C., both of whom reside in Keene township; and E. D., of this review.

The last named acquired a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage. Subsequent to that important event in his life he began the operation of a rented farm and was thus engaged for eight years. On the expiration of that period he purchased a part of the old Wolfe farm of one hundred and thirty acres in Keene township, on which he has since resided, having placed many substantial improvements thereon. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he is energetic, enterprising and progressive and well deserves the, prosperity that has crowned his efforts.

In 18938 occurred the marriage of Mr. Porter and Miss Clenon Elliott, a native of Coshocton county and a daughter of Harrison and Emma (Spangler) Elliott, whose family numbered six children. Harrison Elliott is deceased but his widow still survives and resides in Coshocton. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Porter has been born one son, Eugene E.

In his political views Mr. Porter is a democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church, with which his wife is also identified. Having spent their entire lives in this county, Mr. and Mrs. Porter are widely and favorably known here and have gained the warm regard and esteem of all with whom they have been associated.