Coshocton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1909 (part 3 of 19)

Christopher C. Miller

Enterprise, energy and determination constitute the labors of Christopher C. Miller, who is engaged in farming on a well improved tract of land of one hundred and one acres, situated in Jackson township. He is a native son of the township, born May 12, 1865, a son of John and Nancy (Lyons) Miller, natives of Coshocton county. The father died December 27, 1891, at the age of sixty-seven years, while the mother preceded him to the home beyond, her death occurring January 12, 1879, at the comparatively early age of fifty-two years.

Christopher C. Miller, whose name heads this review, spent the period of his boyhood and youth upon the homestead farm, acquiring his education through the medium of the district schools. He remained under the parental roof until he started out to make his own way in the world, following general agricultural pursuits in Jackson and Bedford townships until 1902, when he removed to Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, where he was engaged in similar pursuits until 1905, when he purchased his present farm of one hundred acres in Jackson township and returned once more to Coshocton county to make his home. He follows farming and stock-raising and also gives much of his time to raising fruit, in which he is meeting with success. He has an attractive country home, fitted out with all modern conveniences, and his farm is otherwise well improved.

Mr. Miller was married October 20, 1886, to Miss Mary A. Marshall, a daughter of Thomas and Susan (Slaughter) Marshall, representatives of two prominent pioneer familiés of this county. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Miller has been blessed with a son and daughter, Ernest E. and Susan A. Mr. Miller is a democrat in his political views and affiliations but has never been active as an office seeker, the only public position he has ever held being that of school director. 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 and pubblic spirit have made him a director of public thought and action.

Jacob Zimmerman

acob Zimmerman is the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and fourteen acres situated in Adams township. The land is rich and productive and the place in its neat and well kept appearance indicates the careful supervision of a practical and painstaking owner. Mr. Zimmerman is one of the respected citizens of this community and has been a resident of Ohio for more than a half century. He claims Switzerland as the place of his nativity, his birth having there occurred January 28, 1838.

His parents, Christ and Margaret Zimmerman, were also natives of the same country and, crossing the Atlantic to America in 1854, they located in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where the father purchased and improved land. He was a school teacher by profession and was actively connected with the educational interests of this state for thirty-eight years. He died in October, 1862, when about seventy-one years of age, for his birth occurred in 1791. His wife survived him only about a year, passing away in 1863.

Jacob Zimmerman is the only survivor in a family of thirteen children. He remained with his father until he attained his majority and worked upon the home farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. When he had reached an adult age he bought a farm of seventy acres in Tuscarawas county, took up his abode there and continued for nineteen years, bringing the place into a high state of cultivation. He then sold that property and removed to Coshocton county, where he bought the farm of one hundred and fourteen acres on which he now resides. His persevering efforts, his diligence and thorough knowledge of farming methods have enabled him to make this a valuable property and from his fields he annually gathers rich harvests, which return to him a gratifying income.

In 1859 Mr. Zimmerman was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Younger, who was born in Tuscarawas county, August 16, 1840. She was one. of twelve children and her parents are now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman were born: Ira, whose birth occurred August 13, 1860; Christ, born June 10, 1862; John F., in 1863; David, in 1865; Imeno, in 1857; Susan, who was born in 1869, and is the wife of Herbert Shlagle; Daniel, born in 1871; Abraham, who was born in 1873 and died in 1902; and Anna E., who was born in 1873 and is the wife of Adam Young. The living members of the family are all residents of Coshocton county and Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman have reared a family of sons and daughters who are a credit and honor to their name.

The parents are members of the German Reformed church and have lived earnest, consistent Christian lives. Mr. Zimmerman gives his political support to the democratic party and was assessor and trustee of his township, while for over twenty-one years he served as a member of the school board. In his official duties he has been found prompt and reliable and in all business affairs honorable and straightforward, so that he enjoys the full confidence and trust of those who know him. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to seek a home in America, for here he has found good opportunities and by his earnest work and unfaltering perseverance has gained a creditable measure of success.

Henry Shaw

Henry Shaw, a successful business man and agriculturalist of Lafayette township, was born in the locality where he now resides, February 21, 1848, the son of Velzer and Margaret (Maple) Shaw. The family is among the pioneer settlers of Coshocton county, the paternal great-grandfather of our subject having purchased in 1833 a large tract of what was then wild land, on which he erected a log cabin and with a resolution which is now evidenced in his posterity, proceeded to bring it under a state of subjection. He was ably assisted in his efforts by five stalwart sons, namely: Elijah, who served in the war of 1812; Albert, who served in both the Mexican and Civil wars; Robert, Enos and Levi.

Velzer Shaw, father of our subject, was born in Orange county, New Jersey, May 4, 1824, and was therefore but nine years of age when brought by his parents to Coshocton county. He grew to manhood on the old farm and was his father's mainstay in the work of the place, to the possession of which he succeeded. As a democrat he took an active interest in political affairs, and while he would never consent to hold office himself, yet he always worked hard for the success of his party. Although a member of no church he was noted for his charity and his pocketbook was always open for those who were in trouble or in need. He wedded Margaret Maple, who was born in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1825, and they became the parents of six children, namely: Jerome, who enlisted in the army when fifteen years of age, as a result of which his health was wrecked by the hardships he suffered during service, and he passed away at the early age of twenty-two years. Henry, of this review. Simeon, who died at the age of seventeen years; Ruth Ann, who died at the age of two years; Seth, who resides in West Lafayette, Ohio; and Edward, who died when forty-eight years of age. The father passed away in 1904, having survived his wife a few years, her death occurring in 1900.

Henry Shaw was reared on the farm and received a district-school education. At the age of eighteen years he began teaching, an occupation which he followed for nine years during the winter months, devoting the months of summer to his farming interests. In 1878 he purchased one hundred acres of land, which is now a part of his present farm of one hundred and fifty acres adjoining the corporation limits of the town of West Lafayette on the north. 'This constitutes his residence property and in addition to this place he also owns a farm of two hundred and six acres in Wilson and Lafayette townships and has recently sold two other farms which he owned.

On September 29, 1868, Henry Shaw was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ellen Masterson, who was born in Gallia county, Ohio, June 22, 1851, the daughter of William F. and Bethsama (Wood) Masterson. Her father was born in Virginia in 1816, and was educated as a physician, having graduated from the Cincinnati Medical College. He was well known as a physician of unusual ability throughout Gallia county and later in Coshocton county, where his services were greatly in demand on account of his proficiency. He died in 1885. The mother was born in Coshocton county and passed away in 1872 at the age of forty-three years. They were the parents of six children, namely: Mary Ellen, the wife of our subject; Pauline, who resides in West Lafayette; Joseph W., a resident of South Bend, Washington; Margaret, who is employed in the United States treasury department at Washington, D. C.; Caroline, the wife of R. C. Hardesty, of Colorado; and William L., a physician, who resides in Washington, D. C. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shaw have been born six children, as follows: Pauline, the wife of L. L. Catherday, who resides in Dresden, Ohio; Cornelia, the wife of S. W. Moore, of Lafayette township; Romania, the wife of P. S. Miller, of Denver, Colorado; George N., who wedded Bessie Duncan and is a telegraph operator at West Lafayette; Joseph, a practicing physician, of Columbus; and Thomas C., who married Alta McCusky and resides in Lafayette township.

Politically, Mr. Shaw is identified with the democratic party. Fraternally, he has been a member of the Masonic order since he was twenty-one years of age and now belongs to lodge No. 96 of Coshocton. Mr. Shaw is not a stern judge when called upon to view the weaknesses or failings of his fellowmen who are less fortunate than himself in the endowment of strength of mind and character, but believes in ever extending a helping hand and in aiding them to maintain their self-respect for the present with high hopes for future success, rather than in chiding them for their mistakes of the past. He has personally attained to an unusual degree of success and no one knows so well as himself that it has been accomplished by hard work and self-denial in carrying out his plans, as a result of which he is charitably inclined toward those who have not been so successful as himself.

A. W. Tarrh, who is a contractor and builder of Tiverton, owns a nice home, surrounded by thirty acres of land, this being one of the attractive and valuable properties of this village. Mr. Tarrh was born in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, March 17, 1847, a son of Frederick and Sarah (Parsons) Tarrh. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he removed to Holmes county, this state, but later took up his abode in Illinois, where he passed away. He was a farmer by occupation. The mother was a native of Holmes county, where she was reared and married to Mr. Tarrh. They became the parents of five children: Rachel, the wife of H. B. Gray, a farmer of Holmes county; Marion, deceased; Paloma W., a resident of California; Maria M., the wife of Bently Liggett, who resides in Ashtabula county, Ohio; and A. W., of this review. Following the father's death, the mother was again married, her second union being with a Mr. Welker, by whom she had one child, who died in infancy. The mother departed this life in 1854.

A. W. Tarrh was a little lad of but four years when he lost his father and was but seven years of age when he was left an orphan. He acquired a limited education in the district schools, but from an early age was dependent upon his own resources for a livelihood. He worked at anything that would yield him an honest living until 1865, when he enlisted as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for one year's service in the Civil war. At the close of hostilities he received an honorable discharge, having made a creditable military record.

When the country no longer needed his services, Mr. Tarrh returned to Coshocton county and, with the exception of one year spent in Knox county, has lived here since. In early life he learned the carpenter's trade and has made this his life work, although for six months he conducted a mercantile establishment, and the year spent in Knox county was devoted to the butchering business. He is today considered the oldest contractor and builder in his community, having erected many of the finest homes in this section of the state. He now owns thirty acres of land near the village of Tiverton, and his is one of the most modern and attractive homes of this part of the county.

Mr. Tarrh was married in 1870 to Miss Angeline Thatcher, and their marriage has been blessed with seven children: Bertha, the wife of Orville Smith, a barber of Brinkhaven; Arminta, the wife of Samuel Hess, a farmer of Monroe township; C. E., who wedded May Barnes and is with our subject;

M. C., who wedded Lou Mullet and resides in Tiverton; Salina, the wife of Raymond Miller, who resides in Cavall, Ohio; Steward, who wedded Mable Lautenschleger and follows farming in Tiverton township; and William F., at home.

Politically Mr. Tarrh is a democrat, and both he and his wife are members of the Disciples church, while his fraternal relations are with the Odd Fellows at Brinkhaven and he is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He is largely a self-educated as well as self-made man, one who through the inherent force of his nature has worked his way upward in the business world until he has gained prominence as a contractor and builder. He is always found straightforward in his business dealings, is prompt and faithful in the performance of his duties, true to the terms of a contract, and has thereby gained the confidence and good will of all with whom business or social relations bring him in contact.

N. D. Buxton, who devotes his time and energies to agricultural pursuits, was born in Bedford township, Coshocton county, Ohio, September 8, 1867, his parents being Noah Washington and Hannah (Mikesell) Buxton. The father, whose birth occurred on the old Buxton homestead in Perry township, was reared in this county and throughout his active business career carried on farming in Perry and Bedford townships. The success which crowned his efforts was attributable entirely to his untiring industry and sound judgment and at the time of his demise he owned one hundred and eighty-seven acres of rich and productive land, while his estate was valued approximately at ten thousand dollars. In politics he was a democrat, while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which he took an active and helpful interest. He was highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him and when he was called to his final rest the county mourned the loss of one of its worthy and honored native sons. His marriage was celebrated in Perry township, Coshocton county, his wife being a native of that place.

Unto Noah Washington and Hannah (Mikesell) Buxton were born seven children, namely: Jacob W., who follows farming in Perry township; George McClelland, deceased; N. D., of this review; W. W., residing on the old homestead ; Mary Venora, who has also passed away; Francis Marion, an agriculturist of Bedford township; and Sarah Ann, the wife of G. O. Hains, who follows farming near Coshocton. Following the death of her first husband Mrs. Buxton was again married, her second union being with William Teal, and subsequent to his demise she wedded William Clark, a farmer of Perry township, Coshocton county. She is still living here and the circle of her friends is almost coextensive with the circle of her acquaintances.

N. D. Buxton obtained his education in the district schools of Perry township and remained under the parental roof until 1889, when he began farming on his own account in Perry township, being thus successfully engaged until 1901. He then located on a farm of eighty-four acres just across the line in Bedford township, in which he owns a two-thirds interest. His landed holdings likewise include ninety acres in Perry township and in the conduct of his agricultural interests has gained that measure of success which is ever the reward of earnest, persistent and well directed labor. The many substantial improvements which are found on the property stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise and he is well entitled to representation among the progressive and prosperous farmers of the community.

On the 28th of April, 1888, Mr. Buxton was united in marriage to Miss Mina May Stewart, a native of Perry township, by whom he had six children: Howard Glen, deceased; a twin of Howard Glen who died in infancy; Leo Ross and Bessie Vernon, at home; another child who died in infancy; and Rolla Raymond, who has also passed away.

Mr. Buxton gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, acted as assessor of Perry township for two years and did valuable service as a member of the school board. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is serving as trustee and class leader, and his wife is also a helpful member of the church. Mr. and Mrs. Buxton are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, having ever displayed those sterling traits of character which in every land and clime win admiration and regard.

Preston C. Shipps

Preston C. Shipps, who is engaged in gardening on a tract of land one mile south of Coshocton, has on his place one of the finest country homes in Tuscarawas township. He was born in Licking county, Ohio, March 7, 1859, a son of Uriah and Rachel (Coulter) Shipps. The latter's father voted the first abolition ticket in Licking county and for this received severe criticism. The father was a farmer and also engaged in dealing in stock and in buying wool, doing quite an extensive business along these various lines.

Preston C. Shipps was reared under the parental roof and early became familiar with the duties of the home farm, assisting his father in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting during the spring and summer months, while in the winter seasons he pursued his studies in the schools of Duncan Falls. His first business experience was as a traveling salesman, working in this capacity for one year. Subsequently he engaged in the general mercantile business for three years at Conesville, after which he engaged in farming for two years. He then went to Allegheny, Pennsylvania, where he was engaged for one year in shipping produce. He then returned to Conesville and farmed for one year near that city, after which he conducted a dairy farm near Coshocton for three years. In 1893, having saved a sum of money sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm, he invested in his present tract of land, situated one mile south of Coshocton, and here he is engaged in gardening. His products have gained a wide reputation and find a ready sale on the market, for they are noted for their excellence of size, quality and flavor. He has gained success in his chosen field of labor but also finds time for other business interests. He is a stockholder and director in the People's Banking & Trust Company of Coshocton; is vice president of the Coshocton Provision Company and is a director in the Glass Undertaking Company of Coshocton. In all these various enterprises he is a prominent factor and is ever interested in anything that tends to advance the best interests of the community.

On the 22d of October, 1886, Mr. Shipps was married to Miss Alice Marquand, a daughter of James and Mary (Cave) Marquand, of Conesville. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Shipps has been blessed with five children: Herman, Flavilla, Fred, John and Ruth, the two last named being twins. Herman and Flavilla graduated from the Coshocton high school and are now attending college.

Mr. Shipps is a member of Coshocton Lodge, No. 44, I. O. O. F., while his political allegiance is given to the republican party, although he is somewhat independent in his views. He is a man of high ideals, is active in club and social life and is highly esteemed in the community in which he makes his home.

Daniel Gribble

Daniel Gribble, a successful agriculturist and stock-raiser of White Eyes township, was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, April 1, 1858, his parents being Daniel and Catharine (Deeds) Gribble, both natives of Germany. The father's birth occurred in 1826 and, emigrating to the United States, he located in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he was engaged in general agricultural pursuits until his retirement, since which time he has made his home in Ragersville. His wife was eighteen years of age at the time she crossed the Atlantic to the new world. They became the parents of nine children, eight of whom still survive: Henry, a resident of Tuscarawas county, Ohio; William and John, both of Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Phoebe, the wife of Philip Kate, living in Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Rosa, the wife of Albert Zohmer, of Sugar Creek, Ohio; Daniel, of this review; George, who makes his home in Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Catherine, the wife of Charles Miller, of Sugar Creek, Ohio.

Daniel Gribble was reared on the home farm and mastered the branches of learning taught in the common schools. When twenty-one years of age he started out in business life for himself by renting his father's farm, in the cultivation of which he was successfully engaged for six years. On the expiration of that period he purchased a tract of fifty acres, on which he made his home for three years, and subsequently he farmed his father-inlaw's place for twelve years. He then sold his fifty-acre tract and in April, 1902, bought his present farm of one hundred and ninety acres in White

Eyes township, which when it came into his possession was in a generally run-down condition. The buildings were dilapidated, the fences had broken down and the land was covered with brambles. With resolute energy he set to work and gradually transformed the place into a model farming property, his improvements including the erection of a fine house, large barn and fences. He is quite extensively engaged in stock-raising, being particularly interested in sheep, and in both his farming and live-stock interests has gained a measure of success which entitles him to representation with the prosperous and enterprising agriculturists of the community.

On the 3d of March, 1881, Mr. Gribble was united in marriage to Miss Rosetta Angel, whose birth occurred in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, August 10, 1856, her parents being Hiram and Caroline (Hahn) Angel. The father, who was born in Harrison county, Ohio, December 23, 1827, followed general agricultural pursuits throughout his business career but retired from active life in 1890, since which time both he and his wife have made their home in Stone Creek. Mrs. Angel, a native of Germany, was born in 1836 and was eighteen years of age when she came to the United States and located in Tuscarawas county, Ohio. She has seven children, namely: Mrs. Gribble; Elizabeth, the wife of Simon Linbach, of New Philadelphia, Ohio; Nancy, who is the wife of William Schaad and resides in Ragersville, Ohio; Mary, the wife of Daniel Gruber, also of New Philadelphia, Ohio; Amelia, the wife of Fred Andregg, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio; William H., who is superintendent of schools at Dennison, Ohio; and Charles F., a resident of Strasburg, Ohio. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gribble have been born two children: Charles D. and Amelia C., who are at home.

In his political views Mr. Gribble is a democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the German Reform church at Stone Creek, with which his wife is also identified. He is a hard worker in the Sunday school and does all in his power to promote the growth and extend the influence of his church, having always held some official position therein. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his county.

Andrew Jackson Hill

Andrew Jackson Hill, in former years a factor in business interests in Coshocton, is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned and well merited rest. His birth occurred in New Birmingham, Guernsey county, Ohio, July 4, 1834. His father, David M. Hill, was a native of Ireland, born October 24, 1788, and came to the United States when about twenty-one or twenty-two years of age, settling in Guernsey county. There he took up land from the government and began the development of a farm. He became the owner of two farming properties and in addition conducted a store and hotel, being one of the most active, energetic and progressive business men of the comts.

munity. He gained a position of affluence through his carefully directed labors and as the years passed enjoyed the fruits of his former toil. He was married December 23, 1819, to Elizabeth Gordon, who was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1801, and with her husband shared in all of the hardships and privations of pioneer life in Guernsey county. She lived there at a time when the forests were infested with wild animals and when the Indians shared with the white men the claim to the land. On one occasion she rescued a hired man from wolves by using hot embers to prevent their approach. She possessed the courage and resolution so necessary to the pioneer women of that day and was a most able assistant and helpmate to her husband. Her death occurred in 1874, while David M. Hill passed away at the age of seventy-two years.

Andrew J. Hill was reared on the backwoods farm and in his father's hotel at New Birmingham. His education was acquired in the district schools and he afterward took charge of one of his father's farms in connection with an elder brother, who, however, left the following year. Mr. Hill was married at the age of nineteen years and continued to remain upon his father's place until he reached the age of twenty-three years, when he removed to his birthplace at New Birmingham. There he secured two mail contracts through the influence of his friend, Joseph White, then a congressman. He carried the mail for four years, making the round trip of forty-two miles from New Birmingham to Cambridge and Port Washington. He afterward went to Cambridge, Guernsey county, where he engaged in the wholesale grocery business as junior partner of the firm of McCleary «& Hill, carrying on the business from January, 1868, until 1873, when he sold his interest and removed to Massillon to conduct the Tremont House at that point. In 1876 he made his way to New Comerstown on a canal boat and there engaged in the marble business until 1877, when he became a resident of Coshocton. Here he continued in the marble business for some time and also started his eldest son in the harness business. Mr. Hill put aside industrial interests in order to perform official duties, having been elected clerk of the courts on the democratic ticket by a large majority in 1887. On the expiration of his three years' term he was reelected in 1890 by a still larger majority, running far ahead of his ticket - a fact which indicated his personal popularity and the confidence reposed in him. He later served as deputy clerk from 1900 until 1906 under W. A. Mizer, so that his connection with the office covered twelve years and six months. Since that time he has devoted himself to his personal interests, which are quite extensive, but aside from his control of his investments he is living retired from active business life.

On the 2d of June, 1852, at New Birmingham, Ohio, Mr. Hill was married to Miss Ann Eliza Kimball, who died at New Comerstown, Ohio, November 2, 1876. By this marriage there were born eight children: Ray T., born March 23, 1854; Austin D., whose birth occurred March 20, 1858, and who passed away October 4, 1883; Mary Elizabeth, born February 23, 1861; Ernest, who was born May 1, 1862, and was called to his final rest on the 6th of October, 1881; George Franklin, born May 1, 1865, who died

January 6, 1908; Jennie Arizona, who was born April 9, 1868, and is the wife of L. D. Schott, candidate for representative; Ann Eliza Byron, who was born October 24, 1873, and is the wife of C. S. Wolford, of Coshocton ; and one who died in infancy. On the 16th of February, 1881, Andrew J. Hill was married to Nancy Lenora Ross, of Uhrichsville, Ohio, and to them were born two children.

Since 1868 Mr. Hill has been a member of the Masonic fraternity and has taken the degrees of the lodge and chapter. From the age of sixteen years he has been a devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church and was superintendent of the Sunday school at New Birmingham. The work of the church has been a matter of deep interest to him and to it he has given active and generous support. His life has been in harmony with his professions, so that he can look back over the past without regret and forward to the future without fear. His record has commended him to the confidence and friendship of all who know him and he is numbered among the honored and esteemed citizens of Coshocton.

Isaac McAllister, a successful agriculturist and extensive stock-raiser of Linton township, was born in this township on the 28th of December, 1853, his parents being John and Margaret (McMorran) McAllister, both of whom were natives of Ireland. They were married in that country and in 1849 emigrated to America, locating in Coshocton, Ohio, where they remained for a short time. Subsequently the father purchased a farm in Linton township, where he made his home for a time but later removed to Guernsey county, there residing until called to his final rest. He owned land in both Coshocton and Guernsey counties and met with a creditable degree of success in his undertakings. Huis death occurred in Guernsey county, Ohio, when he had attained the age of eighty-three years.

Isaac McAllister acquired a common-school education, and remained with his parents until their demise. He lived for a time on his father's farm in Guernsey county, but now makes his home in Coshocton county, being here extensively engaged in the raising of sheep, cattle, hogs and horses. At one time he owned five hundred and fifty acres of land but recently sold two hundred acres, and his holdings now comprise four hundred and seventeen acres of rich and productive farming property, all of which he operates. The place is finely improved, being equipped with all the accessories and conveniences of a model property of the twentieth century. Mr. McAllister has a beautiful home and is acknowledged to be the wealthiest man in Linton township.

In February, 1887, occurred the marriage of Mr. MicAllister and Miss Rachel Forney, who was born in Linton township in 1864, her parents being A. Z, and Hulda (Doty) Forney. Her father, whose birth occurred in Linton township, April 14, 1828, became very successful in his business undertak- ings and was one of the earliest stock-raisers. His wife, who was born in New Jersey, July 6, 1825, passed away on the 29th of June, 1896, while his demise occurred in Linton township on the 4th of April, 1904. Unto this worthy couple were born nine children, namely: Harriette, the wife of Frank McAllister; Joseph, of Iowa; James F. and John A., who are successfully carrying on agricultural pursuits in Linton township; Sarah, the wife of T. K. Swan, of Guernsey county, Ohio; Mrs. McAllister; and three who are deceased. Unto our subject and his wife have been born four children, namely: Florence E., the wife of G. C. Sprague, of Linton township; and Laura E., Clara E. and John F., who are at home.

Mr. McAllister casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Protestant church, with which his wife is also identified. They are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county of their nativity, having gained the regard and friendship of all with whom they have come in contact by reason of their genuine personal worth and upright, honorable lives.

Joseph E. Smith was born on the farm on which he still resides, in Oxford township, Coshocton county, Ohio, on the 16th of March, 1850, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Tudor) Smith, natives of England. The father was born in 1810, and after attaining mature years followed the machinist's trade in England until 1844, when he emigrated to the United States, landing in New York. There he boarded a steamboat for Albany, thence went by way of the Erie canal to Buffalo, New York, across Lake Erie to Cleveland and down the Ohio canal to Evansburg, Coshocton county, Ohio. He purchased a large tract of land in Oxford township, in the cultivation of which he was successfully engaged until called to his final rest in 1873. His wife, whose birth had occurred in 1806, passed away in 1880. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children, namely: Thomas T., of Oxford township, who is mentioned on another page of this volume; William, likewise a resident of Oxford township; Elizabeth, deceased; George, residing in Illinois; Harriet, who has also passed away; Hannah, the wife of David Wood, of Beach City, Ohio; and Joseph E., of this review.

The last named was reared on the home farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. At the time of his marriage he began operating the farm which he now owns, comprising one hundred and sixty-eight acres of rich and produetive land in Oxford township. Here he has a beautiful and commodious residence and his place is equipped with all the modern accessories and conveniences of a model farming property of the twentieth century. All of the improvements stand as monuments to his own labor and enterprise, and he is widely recognized as one of the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of the com-

On the 2d of February, 1875, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Eliza J. Fenton, a native of Ireland, who passed away on the 12th of December, 1907, when sixty-two years of age. Her parents, Samuel and Jane Fenton, emigrated to the United States in 1848, and after spending five years in Washington county, Pennsylvania, located in Adams township, Coshocton county, Ohio, where they passed away. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born two children: Nora, whose birth occurred April 29, 1876, gave her hand in marriage to Guy Powell on the 29th of September, 1898, and they have a daughter, Vera Dale. Mr. Powell is a native of White Eyes township, Coshocton county, his natal day being March 6, 1876. Archie V. Smith is deceased.

Mr. Smith is a stalwart democrat in his political views, and is a devoted member of the Presbyterian church, with which his wife was also identified. A native son of this county, the period of his residence here now covers fiftyeight years, and throughout the entire time he has so lived as to win the respect and confidence of all with whom he has been associated.

William Clark

Wilham Clark, a retired agriculturist residing in Perry township, was born in New Castle township, Coshocton county, Ohio, October 22, 1828, his parents being Joshua and Mary (Giffen) Clark. The grandfather, John Clark, located in Coshocton county and passed away in Champaign county. The father, who was probably a native of Harrison county, came to New Castle township, Coshocton county, in early manhood, being numbered among the early settlers here. He spent a summer in Knox county, which was then a wild and unsettled region - the abode of Indians and the haunt of many kinds of wild animals. Subsequently returning to this county, he took up his abode in New Castle township and here made his home until called to his final rest in 1897. Starting out in life empty handed, he worked persistently and energetically and at length his labors were crowned with a well merited measure of success. His early political allegiance was given to the democracy but later he became an enthusiastic prohibitionist and an abolitionist. The mother of our subject, a native of Coshocton county, was reared and married in New Castle township, where her death also occurred. She had four children, namely: William, of this review; Lovey, the wife of Wilham Wharton, a retired blacksmith and farmer of Coshocton county; Allen, who follows agricultural pursuits in Knox county, Ohio; and Elizabeth, deceased. Following the death of his first wife Joshua Clark was again married, his second union being with Miss Ellen Wilson, by whom he had nine children.

William Clark was educated in a district school, the "temple of learning" being a little log structure characteristic of those pioneer times. .He re- mained at home with his father until thirty-two years of age and throughout his active business career has followed farming in New Castle and Perry townships, with the exception of fifteen years spent in Knox county. At one time he owned five hundred acres of land but sold two hundred acres and now has three hundred and forty acres of rich and well improved land in Perry township. He started out in life without any financial assistance and the success which has attended his efforts is indicated somewhat by the fact that he paid twenty thousand dollars cash for his present farm. He attributes his success in large measure to his operations in the sheep industry. The many substantial improvements on his property, with the exception of the residence, stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise and he is widely recognized as one of the prosperous and influential citizens of the county. He made a contribution of five hundred dollars to the war fund which obviated the necessity of the draft in his township.

Mr. Clark has been married twice. In 1878 he wedded Miss Hannah Veatch, by whom he had seven children, as follows: Elmer, a farmer of Perry township; Walter, who follows agricultural pursuits in New Castle township; Harriett Ellen, deceased; Mollie, the wife of George McClelland Oxley, who is engaged in farming in New Castle township; Sylvia, the wife of Gilbert Bryan, a farmer of Washington township; Charles F., who resides near Martinsburg, Ohio; and Bertha, at home. Subsequent to the death of his first wife Mr. Clark married Mrs. Hannah Teale, a native of Coshocton county.

In politics Mr. Clark is a stalwart republican but has never sought the honors or emoluments of office, preferring to give his time and energies to his private business interests. Throughout his entire life, covering a period of eighty years, Mr. Clark has made his home in this county and has been an important factor in its agricultural development. Widely known, his life history cannot fail to prove of interest to his many friends, and it is therefore with pleasure that we present this record of his career to our readers.

David A. Cullison

A glance at the well improved farm of two hundred acres belonging to David A. Cullison is the best evidence of what can be accomplished through determined purpose, laudable ambition and capable management. Mr. Cullison was born in Holmes county, May 25, 1857, a son of Alexander and Sarah (Watts) Cullison. The father was a soldier of the Civil war and was killed in battle, leaving the mother to support four small children. She _ removed with her little family to Dresden, Muskingum county, and as soon as old enough David A. began to provide for his own support, so that his educational advantages were necessarily very limited. He secured work at farm labor and for several years was employed in this way by John Haines of Bedford township. Through economy and energy he managed to save a sum of money that justified him in starting in business on his own account and after investing in a team and implements for carrying on farm work he operated rented land in Bethlehem township for one year. In March, 1885, he removed to his present farm which comprises two hundred acres situated in Jackson township. It is improved with a good country residence, substantial barns and outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and in addition to raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate he also raises good grades of stock. Mr. Cullison deserves great credit for what he has accomplished and is classed among the substantial citizens of this section of the state.

Mr. Cullison was' married November 29, 1883, the lady of his choice being Miss Alice L. Milligan, a daughter of William and Lena (Haines) Milligan, of Coshocton county, both of whom have passed away. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Cullison has been blessed with seven children but the youngest, Iva M., is now deceased. Those living are: Pearl M., the wife of Joseph Sowers; Minnie E., the wife of Denman Sowers; Roy J.; Bertha B.; Bulah J.; and Bessie M.

Mr. Cullison gives his political support to the democratic party and aside from acting as school director for several years has filled no public office. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Character and ability will come to the front anywhere. As boy and man, many a man has been buffeted by fortune and had almost insurmountable obstacles thrust in his path but perseverance has cleared them away and he has gone on to success, and this is what Mr. Cullison has done.

William Smith

William Smith, a retired agriculturist of Oxford township, was born in England, July 31, 1834, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Tudor) Smith, also natives of England, the father born in 1810 and the mother in 1806. In the year 1846 George Smith emigrated to the United States and took up his abode in Coshocton county, Ohio, being here engaged in the operation of rented land for four or five years. On the expiration of that period he purchased a farm and that he met with a gratifying measure of success in his undertakings is indicated by the fact that at the time of his death his holdings comprised four hundred acres of rich and productive land. He was called to his final rest on the 16th of July, 1873, while his wife passed away in 1880. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely: T. T., of Oxford township; William, of this review; Elizabeth, deceased: George, a resident of Johnson county, Illinois; Anna, the wife of David C. Wood, of Tuscarawas county; and Joseph, living in Coshocton county.

William Smith acquired a common school education and remained under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-three years. when he was married and located on the farm in Oxford township, on which he still resides. Throughout his active business career he has been connected with farming interests and by dint of untiring industry and -eapable management won the measure of prosperity that now enables him to live retired. In addition to the work of the fields he made a specialty of stockraising, both branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. He now owns three hundred and thirty-six acres of highly cultivated land in this county and is well known and highly esteemed as a prosperous and enterprising citizen.

Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Ann Taylor, a native of Coshocton county and a daughter of Joseph and Barbara (McFarland) Taylor, both of whom are now deceased, the father having passed away in 1866. Mrs. Smith was one of a family of six children and by her marriage has become the mother of ten, as follows: J. W. and Clifford, both residents of Adams township; Joseph and William T., who are deceased; Emma D., the wife of Aquilla Dossie, of New Comerstown, Ohio; Cassie, the wife of Byron Barge, of Indianapolis, Indiana; Frank, living in Oxford township; Burt, of Barberton, Ohio; Lula, the wife of Mart Swagart, of Licking county; and Richard.

Mr. Smith is a democrat in his political views and for one year served as township supervisor. Both he and his wife are devoted and faithful members of the Methodist Protestant church at Orange, and have won the warm regard and friendship of all with whom they have come in contact during the long period of their residence here.

William A. Dougherty, M.D.

Dr. William A. Dougherty, a successful medical practitioner of Fresno, was born in White Eyes township, Coshocton county, Ohio, his parents being John and Elizabeth (Dickey) Dougherty. The father, whose birth occurred in Belmont county, Ohio, in February, 1830, accompanied his parents on their removal to Coshocton county in 1840, the family home being established upon a farm in White Eyes township. There John Dougherty was reared and married, and carried on general agricultural pursuits until the time of his retirement from active business life, having -since resided in "Fresno. His wife, a native of Scotland, was only two months old when brought by her parents to the new world. They took up their abode in White Eyes township, Coshocton county, where her father carried on farming until the time of his demise. Mrs. Dougherty passed away in 1903, when she had attained the age of sixty-seven years. She had become the mother of five children, namely: William A., of this review; Margaret, the wife of Milton Elliott, of White Eyes township; G. A., who is attorney for the Southern Pacific Railroad at Berkeley, California; May, deceased; and Cornea, who is a music teacher and resides at home.

William A. Dougherty was reared on the home farm and supplemented his district-school education by attending the high school at Coshocton for one year, while for a similar period he was a student at Hopedale. For one year he attended Muskingum College and then spent two years in the Ohio

State University at Columbus, after which he entered the Chicago Veterinary College, being graduated from that institution in 1890. He then practiced his profession at Bucyrus, Ohio, for eight years, meeting with a gratifying measure of success. Subsequently he took up the study of medicine in the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, from which he was graduated in 1904, and since that time has practiced in Fresno. His labors in the line of his chosen profession have won him a large and well merited degree of prosperity and he is well known and highly esteemed as a worthy representative of his calling. For eight years he was health officer at Bucyrus, while he served as government meat inspector at Cleveland for one year and also at Chicago for a similar period.

In his political views Dr. Dougherty is independent, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic lodge at Coshocton, the Knights of Pythias, No. 108, of Bucyrus, Ohio, and the Modern Woodmen of America, No. 11688, of Fresno.

David Markley, Jr

Untiring energy and determined purpose have characterized the labors of David Markley, Jr., who is now engaged in agricultural pursuits in Tuscarawas township, operating the old homestead property. He was born October 1, 1868, a son of David and Salina (Payne) Markley, whose paternal ancestors came to Coshocton county from Maryland and maternal ancestors from Massachusetts and are of German descent.

David Markley, Jr., whose name introduces this review, was reared on the home farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He began his education in the common schools, this being supplemented by study in the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio. After attending for a time at Delaware he returned to the home farm and became an active factor in its management. This is a well improved tract, comprising one hundred and sixty-five acres situated in Tuscarawas township. Mr. Markley is engaged in raising the various cereals best adapted to soil and climate and each year adds to his financial income through the abundant crops which he harvests.

Mr. Markley was married October 4, 1896, to Miss Minnie G. Mohler, a daughter of George W. and Clara B. Mohler. This union was blessed with a son and daughter, David and Ruth. After a brief married life, covering little more than four years, Mrs. Markley was called from this life, her death occurring December 18, 1900, since which time Mr. Markley's sister, Miss Annie E. Markley, has resided with him, their home being on the old homestead property at Canal Lewisville.

Mr. Markley gives his political support to the republican party and has twice been elected to fill the office of justice of the peace of Tuscarawas township, which usually gives a strong democratic majority. He is also a member of the Grange. His progressive methods are such as win for him excellent success in his business undertakings, while his public spirit is manifested in the support of every movement or measure calculated to better the material welfare of the community in which he makes his home.

L. T. Church

L. T. Church, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits on a tract of two hundred acres, situated in Tiverton township, was born on the farm which is now his home, September 18, 1856, a son of Benjamin Simmons and Margaret Elizabeth (Cox) Church. In the paternal line he traces his ancestry back for eight generations. The family was founded in Coshocton county by the paternal grandfather, Colonel Lemuel Church, who was born in Massachusetts and came to Coshocton county in the early '20s. He was a shoemaker by trade and also followed farming. His son, Benjamin S. Church, was born in Coshocton county and after completing his education engaged in teaching and also clerked in a store. He later engaged in the mercantile business, being at various times, in Brinkhaven and Spring Mountain. Later in life he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1865. He practiced in Coshocton, Holmes and Knox counties, and at the time of his death was associated in practice with Charles Vorhees, at Millers' burg. He was admitted to practice before the United States courts and practiced in several states. In politics he was a republican and was twice nominated for congressman but was defeated. His death occurred in 1900 and his remains were interred in Borden cemetery in Tiverton township. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Margaret E. Cox, was a relative of Henry Clay and Sunset Cox. She was a native of Virginia and was left an orphan when quite young. She became the mother of six children: John R., who follows farming at New Philadelphia; Emma C., the wife of T. T. Finney, a nurseryman of Millersburg, Ohio; Robert L., a retired merchant of Glenwood, this state; L. T., of this review; Eugenie, deceased, who was the wife of B. A. Simmons; and Kittie, who taught school in Delaware prior to her

L. T. Church pursued his studies in the schools of Millersburg and Danville, subsequent to which time he engaged in teaching for two years in Holmes county. At the end of that time he returned to the homestead farm in Coshocton county and has since made his home here, owning at the present time two hundred acres of well improved and valuable land. He carries on general farming and everything about his place is kept in a neat and thrifty appearance, indicating the progressive methods of the owner.

Mr. Church was married October 25, 1898, the lady of his choice being Miss Ida Wilson, a resident of Warsaw. A little daughter and son grace the home, Mildred Lea and Wilson C. Mr. Church is a republican in his political views and affiliations, having supported the party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. They are highly esteemed in the community in which they make their home, their many good traits of character having gained them favor with their many friends.

Mrs. Mary C. Laurence

Mrs. Mary C. Laurence, the wife of Casimer Laurence, was born in Germany, June 2, 1845. She came to America in the early "60s and located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where in 1863 she gave her hand in marriage to Casimer Laurence. Immediately after their marriage they started for Ohio, settling at Stone Creek, Tuscarawas county, where they resided until 1869. In that year they became residents of Crawford township, Coshocton county, where they remained for a few years and then came to Adams township, where Mr. Laurence purchased a farm of two hundred and fifty acres about a mile north of the village of Bakersville. With characteristic energy he began the further development and improvement of this place and soon the fields responded with rich harvests and his crops found a ready sale on the market. He worked earnestly and diligently to make his farm one of the model properties of the community and his efforts were noticeable in the excellent appearance of his fields, while the buildings upon the place were always kept in a state of good repair.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Laurence were born ten children: Maggie, now the wife of W. C. Fritz, a resident of Ottawa, Ohio; Emma E., the wife of Conrad Stine, of this county; Anna C., the wife of Christ Zimmerman, also of this county; Ella, the wife of Glenn Davis, of Coshocton county; Charles H., who was born January 8, 1877, and married Esther Jane Davis, by whom he has four children, Raymond P., Florence E., Charles C. and Terra May; Frederick G., who is living in Tuscarawas county; Harry E., whose home is in Iowa; W. C., also of Tuscarawas county; Catharine, the wife of Henry Thomas, now deceased; and Sadie, who married and at her death left one child.

The death of the husband and father occurred May 22, 1903, and a widow and eight children were left to mourn his demise. He was a leading and influential resident of his community and enjoyed to the fullest extent the confidence and good will of all who knew him. His political views were in harmony with the principles of the democratic party and he did all in his power to further the interests of the party along legitimate lines. He served as county commissioner for six years and was also justice of the peace for several years. The duties that devolved upon him in this connection were discharged in a very prompt and capable manner and won for him the high commendation of all concerned. His death, therefore, was a distinct loss to the community, as well as to his family, to whom he was a devoted husband and father.

Mrs. Laurence still owns and occupies the old homestead property of two hundred and fifty acres in Adams township. It is a valuable and well improved farm and is now being carried on by her son Charles H., who is a progressive and wide-awake agriculturist. Mrs. Laurence is a member of the German Reformed church and is a lady of many good qualities, of kindly spirit and friendly disposition, who enjoys the esteem and good will of all who know her.

Lewis McFarland owns and cultivates a farm in White Eyes township, comprising one hundred and fifty-five acres, and the improvements seen thereon indicate his progressive spirit and the practical methods which he employs in his work. He is numbered among the native sons of Illinois, his birth having occurred in that state November 3, 1857. His parents were Andrew and Rosanna (Norman) McFarland, both of whom are natives of Ohio, the latter being a daughter of Abraham Norman, one of the prominent pioneer residents here. Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Mc- Farland removed to Illinois, where they lived for several years. They then sold that property and returned to Coshocton county, where they spent their remaining days, the death of the father here occurring in 1872, while the mother survived until 1890. Their family numbered fifteen children, of whom eight are yet living.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Lewis McFarland in his boyhood and youth. He performed his tasks as his age and strength permitted, and in the district schools he obtained his education. He was twenty years of age at the time of his marriage to Miss Lizzie McClary, who was born in Coshocton county March 13, 1860, and is a daughter of John and Sarah Ann (Norman) McClary, both of whom are now deceased. The mother passed away in 1878, while the father's death occurred in 1900. They had fourteen children, including their daughter Lizzie, who in 1877 gave her hand in marriage to Lewis McFarland. The young couple began their domestic life upon a rented farm, where they lived for a few years until their careful expenditure and diligence afforded them sufficient capital to enable them to purchase a farm. Mr. McFarland then bought a tract of land in Adams township and continued its further cultivation and improvement until 1898, when he sold that property and bought the place upon which he now resides, which is a tract of one hundred and fiftyfive acres in White Eyes township. He has improved this and made it a eood property, equipped with all modern accessories and conveniences. It presents an attractive appearance and constitutes one of the pleasing views in the landscape.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. McFarland have been born fifteen children: Alveron, deceased; Mary E., the wife of Frank Geese, of Lafayette township; Nettie Ann, the wife of P. Gaskill, of this county; Sigle R., who is living in Canton, Ohio; Charles C., at home; Geneva M., the wife of Lewis Miller, of Fresno; Clara B., the wife of William Harbolt, of Linton township; Minnie P., Bertha G. and Timothy E., all yet at home; Clarence, deceased ; Laura M. and Helen G., who are also with their parents; Grace, deceased ; and one who died in infancy. The parents attend the Methodist Episcopal church and contribute to its support. Mr. McFarland votes with the republican party and has filled the office of school director, but does not seek public notoriety, preferring to concentrate his attention upon his business interests, which are now bringing to him substantial success, so that he is today numbered among the prosperous farmers of the county.

Ralph S. Phillips

Ralph S. Phillips, who is a well-to-do farmer and stock-raiser, owning two hundred and eighty acres of land in his home place and seventy acres in another tract, was until recent years actively identified with the educational life of this section of the state. He is now numbered among the substantial agriculturists of Franklin and Virginia townships. Mr. Phillips was born November 21, 1853, in Lafayette township, a son of Simeon and Phoebe (Shaw) Phillips, the former a native of New York, and the latter of New Jersey, coming to Coshocton county with their respective parents at an early day.

Ralph S. Phillips was reared on the homestead farm and acquired his education in the district schools and in the public schools of West Lafayette. In the fall of 1876, having completed his own education and fitted himself for teaching, he became a member of the profession, being thus employed for two years in the schools of Crawford county, Illinois. It was soon after his arrival in Crawford county that he was married to Miss Louisa Baker, their marriage being celebrated on Christmas day of 1876. She is a daughter of Edward and Sarah (Paddock) Baker, who were former residents of Coshocton county. Following his marriage Mr. Phillips remained in Crawford county for two years, or until 1878, when he returned once more to his native county and was employed in the West Lafayette schools for one year. Subsequently he taught in Lafayette, Franklin and Virginia townships, teaching almost continuously until 1904. He was considered one of the progressive and up-to-date educators of this section of the state, always giving entire satisfaction in the various districts in which he was employed.

It was in the fall of 1879 that Mr. Phillips took up his abode upon his present farm, this being located near Conesville, and while he still gave his attention to teaching during the winter months he followed general farming during the spring and summer seasons. His home place comprises two hundred and eighty acres of land in Franklin township, and he also owns a tract of seventy acres near West Lafayette. Both farms are well improved and well stocked and return to him a gratifying annual income. . As above stated, Mr. Phillips abandoned the profession of teaching in 1904, and in the fall of the same year was appointed carrier on the first rural mail route out of Conesville. He continued in the position until January, 1907, when he resigned and has since given his entire time and attention to his farming interests.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Phillips has been blessed with the following children: William H.; John E.; Clyde; Bessie, the wife of Jesse Holdsworth; and Anna L. They also lost one child in infancy.

Mr. Phillips is a republican in his political views, giving stalwart support to the party. He has been called by his fellow townsmen to fill a number of public offices, having served for three terms as township trustee and he was also land appraiser for Franklin township in 1900. He has also served for several years as a member of the Conesville district school board and was instrumental in securing for the district its fine, modern brick school building. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. He is well known in all public and political circles and has often represented his party as a delegate to conventions. He is a public-spirited citizen and has always taken a deep and active interest in schools in order that his own and other children might receive an education suited to the demands of the time and that they might start out in life well equipped for the eager, strenuous life of this exacting age. He is also known for his honor and integrity, for in his relations with his fellowmen, and in his treatment of his neighbor he has never lost sight of the principle of the Golden Rule.

Howard M. Hook

Howard M. Hook, who follows farming in Keene township, was born in Bethlehem township, Coshocton county, Ohio, July 4, 1855, his parents being Isaac and Kissie (Skillman) Hook, who were also natives of Bethlehem township. The father passed away in this county at the age of seventyfour years but the mother, who is now in her eightieth year, still survives * and makes her home with her children. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children, namely: Newton N., a resident of Coshocton; Etha, the wife of Harrison Courtwright, of Coshocton, Ohio; Howard M., of this review; Susan, deceased; Jane, the wife of Frank West, of this county; Minney, the wife of George Webb, of Coshocton, Ohio; Mildred, the wife of Ira Hoglen, of Indiana; and George.

Howard M. Hook acquired a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-four years, when he was married. Subsequently he was engaged in the operation of a rented farm for twelve years and then purchased a tract of land of forty acres, on which he made his home for three years. On the expiration of that period he sold out and bought some property in Coshocton, where he also resided for three years. He then once more rented a farm, which he successfully cultivated for three years, when he purchased his present place, comprising thirty-one acres of well improved and valuable land in Keene township. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he has met with a well merited measure of success by reason of his unremitting industry and diligence and is a well known and respected resident of the community.

Mr. Hook was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary C. Bible, a daughter of Philip R. Bible, who is mentioned on another page of this work. Their two children were as follows: Wilbert, who is now deceased; and Frank, living in Jackson township.

In his political views Mr. Hook is a republican and has served as school director, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. Having resided here throughout his entire life, or for more than a half century, his interests are thoroughly identified with those of Coshocton county and at all times he is ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement instituted to advance the general welfare.

Few men of Lakin E. Bluck's age have won the degree of success which he today enjoys. He is now the owner of two hundred and thirty-five acres of rich and valuable land situated in Oxford township, and is numbered among the young and enterprising farmers and stock-raisers of this section of the state. He was born in Coshocton county, August 6, 1867, the only child of Edwin and Mary C. (Whiteside) Bluck.

The father was born in England, January 24, 1848, and came with his parents to America when a little lad of ten years, the family home being established in Coshocton county where the father followed farming. He was also a soldier of the Civil war, enlisting as a member of Company A, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Newark, with which he served until the close of hostilities. His marriage to Miss Whiteside was celebrated in 1866 soon after his return from the war. She was born in Coshocton county March 38, 1847, and became the mother of only one child, Lakin E., whose name introduces this review. The parents are both now deceased. 'The father died October 9, 1907, and the mother passed away November 26, 1900. They were numbered among the worthy pioneers of this section of the state and their loss was deeply felt by many friends and neighbors as well as by the members of their own immediate household.

Lakin E. Bluck acquired his education in the common schools, wherein he mastered the branches of learning that well fitted him for the arduous and responsible duties of life. He spent his youth and early manhood in much the usual manner of farmers, and remained under the parental roof until the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1892, the lady of his choice being Miss Lizzie A. Smith, who was born in Coshocton county, June 25, 1870, one of a family of eight children, born of the marriage of. Thomas and Elizabeth (Everal) Smith, natives of this county. The father still survives and makes his home in this county. The mother died October 23, 1891.

Following his marriage Mr. Bluck took up his abode upon a farm and has carried on agricultural pursuits to the present time. He is now the owner of two hundred and thirty-five acres of rich and well improved land situated in Oxford township, and in addition to raising the various cereals best adapted to soil and climate he makes a specialty of raising stock, both branches of his business proving a profitable source of revenue to him.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Bluck has been blessed with two sons: Russell M., who was born February 18, 1893, and who at the death of his grandfather inherited one hundred and thirty-three and a third acres of land in Lafayette township; and Walter L., who was born on Christmas day of 1902, and is now a little lad of six years. Mr. Bluck gives his political support to the men and measures of the democratic party. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant church. He belongs to that class of representative young men who rapidly discern opportunities of improvement and who are rapidly forging to the front. He always adheres to honorable methods in his dealings with his fellowmen and is therefore highly esteemed by all with whom he comes in contact.

John J. Croft

John J. Croft was born on the farm in Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, which is still his home, his natal day being April 18, 1841. His parents, John and Catharine (Conrad) Croft, natives of Germany and Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, respectively, are deceased. When eleven years of age the father accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States and, after residing in Philadelphia for a short time, came to Coshocton county, Ohio, in the early 730s. Unto John Croft and his wife were born sixteen children, namely: John J., of this review; Solomon, a resident of Mill Creek township; Leonard, living in Holmes county, Ohio; Catharine, the wife of Francis Bender, of Mill Creek township; Christina, the wife of William Farver, of Holmes county, Ohio; Henry, also residing in Mill Creek township; and ten who have passed away.

John J. Croft acquired a common-school education and remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority. He then purchased a farm and later bought the old homestead place of one hundred and _thirten acres, in the cultivation of which he has since been successfully engaged. At one time, however, he was also identified with the hardware business as a member of the firm of Brown & Croft at New Bedford. In the conduct of his agricultural interests he has met with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity, the fields annually yielding golden harvests as a reward for the care and labor he bestows upon them.

On the 16th of April, 1872, Mr. Croft was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ann Brown, whose birth occurred in this county in 1848, her parents being Henry and Rebecca (Snyder) Brown, who are now deceased. Mrs. Croft was one of a family of eight children and by her marriage has become the mother of five, as follows: Milton H. and Percy, both living in Mill Creek township; Claudius O., a resident of Baltic, Ohio; Victor F., of Kansas City; Alto Rebecea, the wife of G. D. Whittaker, of Kansas City. Our subject and his wife also have eight grandchildren.

In his political views Mr. Croft is a democrat and has held several township offices, ever discharging his publie duties in a creditable and satisfactory manner. Both he and his wife are faithful members of the Reformed church and are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives.

Thomas T. Smith

Thomas T. Smith, who is residing on his valuable farm of three hundred acres in Oxford township, was born in Gloucestershire, England, December 18, 1831, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Tudor) Smith, also natives of that country. The father was born in 1810, and after attaining mature years followed the machinist's trade in England until 1844, when he emigrated to the United States, landing in New York. There he boarded a steamboat for Albany, thence went by way of the Erie canal to Buffalo, New York, across Lake Erie to Cleveland and down the Ohio canal to Evansburg, Coshocton county, Ohio. He purchased a large tract of land in Oxford township, in the cultivation of which he was successfully engaged until called to his final rest in 1878. His wife, whose birth had oceurred in 1806, passed away in 1880. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children, namely: Thomas T., of this review; William, of Oxford township; Elizabeth, deceased; George, residing in Illinois; Harriet, who has also passed away; Hannah, the wife of David Wood, of Beach City, Ohio; and Joseph E., of Oxford township.

Thomas T. Smith attended the schools of his native land, and was thirteen years of age when he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the new world. He remained at home until the time of his marriage and then began the operation of a rented farm. Subsequently he and a brother purchased a tract of land and later, buying his brother's interest, he became the owner of three hundred acres of rich and productive farming property in Oxford township, which is still in his possession. The place is now being farmed by his son and sons-in-law and returns to him a gratifying annual income. He has met with success in his undertakings and in former years gave considerable attention to the raising of stock, principally sheep.

Mr. Smith has been twice married. On the 22d of September, 1857, he wedded Miss Elizabeth Everall, whose birth occurred in Oxford township, September 5, 1835, and who passed away on the 23d of October, 1891. Her father, John Everall, a native of England, crossed the Atlantic to the United States and took up his abode in Oxford 'township, Coshocton county, in

1830. By his first wife our subject had the following children, namely: Lawrence W., of New Comerstown, Ohio; Mary A., deceased; Laura V., the wife of Samuel Hufford, of Oxford township; Harriet E., who is the wife of James H. Norris and resides in Adams township; John T., living in Adams township; Martha Ann, the wife of Lakin Bluck, of Lafayette township; George W. W., who makes his home in Seattle, Washington; and Lottie Maude, the wife of Frank Wise, of New Comerstown, Ohio. On the 23d of October, 1896, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Mrs. Eveline Coots, the widow of Charles Coots. She was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, December 5, 1831, her parents being Thomas and Elizabeth (Blair) Growden, the former a native of England and the latter of Bedford county, Pennsylvania. Thomas Growden was nineteen years of age when he came to America, and both he and his wife passed away in Bedford county, Pennsylvania.

In his political views Mr. Smith is a democrat and has taken an active interest in the local work of the party, having served as township trustee for three terms, also as road supervisor and in a number of school offices. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the United Brethren church, and he is widely and favorably known as a substantial and worthy citizen of this county, where he has now made his home for almost twothirds of a century.

Mrs. Mary Hackenbracht

Mrs. Mary Hackenbracht was born in Lafayette township, Coshocton county, Ohio, August 24, 1845, her parents being Simeon and Phoebe (Shaw) Phillips. Her father, a native of New Jersey, who was born March 18, 1798, came west at a very early day, locating in Roscoe, Coshocton county, Ohio, where he followed blacksmithing. His brother was one of the first settlers in Roscoe and was a cabinetmaker by trade. Coming to Lafayette township, Simeon Phillips purchased ninety-eight acres of land, which is now in possession of Mrs. Hackenbracht. It was covered with brush and is believed to have been a camping ground for the Indians, as hundreds of arrowheads were found on the place. The father of our subject was a successful man and a prominent citizen of his community, holding various township offices. His death occurred when he had attained the age of sixty-one years. He was twice married, his first union being with Sarah Hart, by whom he had two children, both of whom are deceased. For his second wife he chose Miss Phoebe Shaw, whose birth occurred in Sussex county, New Jersey, and who was eleven years of age when she accompanied her parents on their removal to Coshocton county. She passed away in May, 1891, when sixty-five years of age. Unto Simeon and Phoebe (Shaw) Phillips were born nine children, three of whom still survive: Mrs. Mary Hackenbracht; Ralph, residing in Conesville, Ohio; and James, of Converse, Indiana.

On the 27th of December, 1876, Mary Phillips became the wife of George Hackenbracht, whose birth occurred on Stone Creek, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, August 24, 1849. By this union there were seven children, namely: Frank W., who is a telegraph operator for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company; Henry and Sarah, both at home; Lillian, the wife of Grant Woodmansee, of Converse, Indiana; Ralph, a telegraph operator for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; Oscar, deceased; and Clyde, at home. All of the children have received a good education in the West Lafayette high school and four have teacher's certificates, the two eldest having taught school.

For nine years following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hackenbracht lived on a farm which they owned north of New Comerstown in Tuscarawas county. Since 1891, however, Mrs. Hackenbracht has made her home on her finely improved farm of one hundred and ten acres in Lafayette township, which she has successfully managed. She and her children are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and enjoy the hospitality of the best homes of the community in which they reside.

Georgf W. Mohler

Perhaps no man has done :nore for the intellectual development of Coshocton county than George W. Mohler, who throughout a long period was identified with the teacher's profession. Mr. Mohler was born April 6, 1841, at West Carlisle, Coshocton county, a son of Peter and Rosanna (Frederick) Mohler, who came to the Buckeye state from Maryland, the family home being established in Zanesville. The year 1839 witnessed their arrival in Ohio, and they came to Coshocton county in 1848. The father here engaged in farming.

George W. Mohler was reared on the home farm and was early trained to the duties of the agriculturist, assisting his father in the fields from the time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in the late autumn. He began his education in the schools of Zanesville, where he studied two years, prior to the removal of the family to Coshocton county, after which he attended the country schools for a few years and subsequently spent one year in Spring Mountain Academy.

In February, 1864, however, he put aside all business and personal considerations and offered his services to the government, enlisting as a member of Company I, Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and he served under Generals Thomas and Sherman until mustered out October 3, 1865. Returning home with a most creditable military record and successfully passing the examination necessary to secure to him a teacher's certificate, he then engaged in teaching, being thus employed in Coshocton county for thirty-two years, beginning in 1865. It will thus be seen that he has been an important factor in the educational and moral development of this county and in his work of instruction he met with desirable success. Since 1897, however, Mr.

On the 16th of September, 1869, Mr. Mohler led to the marriage altar Miss Clara A. Belzer, a daughter of Christian F. and Olive F. Belzer, of Canal Lewisville. Their marriage has been blessed with two sons and nine daughters. The sons are Horace P. and George W., Jr. The daughters are: Edna C. and Maud F., who are engaged in teaching in the Coshocton schools; Gladys V., Madge F. and Lillian B.; all under the parental roof; Minnie G., who became the wife of David Markley and died in 1900; Rose D., who died in infancy; Blanche E., now the wife of William Struble, of Coshocton; and Eugenia, the wife of Howard B. Shrigley, of Canton, Ohio.

Mr. Mohler's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party. He was the only man in his regiment who voted for General Morgan when he ran against General Cox for governor of Ohio in 1865, the regiment being then in Texas. He also wrote his own ticket in 1864, having no ticket given him at that time. One of his comrades also voted with him then in the presidential election, there being ninety-seven votes cast for General McClelland, at Pulaski, Tennessee, where they were then located. He maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Richard Lanning frost, G. A. R. Sueh in brief is the life history of George W. Mohler. In whatever relation of life we find him - in the government service, in professional circles, in business or in social relations - he is always the same honorwble and honored gentleman, whose worth well merits the high regard which is uniformly given him.

John Porteus

John Porteus is one of the wealthy landowners of Coshocton county, his possessions comprising five hundred and sixty-four acres of rich and valuable land, a part of which comprises the old homestead property. Mr. Porteus possesses the enterprise so characteristic of the Irish race, for his birth occurred in County Sligo, Ireland, March 17, 1849. His parents, William and Jane Porteus, settled in Coshocton county in 1849 during the infancy of the son John. The father became an extensive landowner and died October 3, 1883, while the mother survived for a few years and passed away April 9, 1893.

John Porteus was reared to the pursuits of the home farm early becoming trained to the habits of industry, thrift and economy, and in his later manhood these qualities have predominated and he has become a prosperous rman He acquired a fair education in the district schools near his father's horae but in later years he has greatly added to his fund of knowledge through the reading of good literature, as well as through experience and observation. Farming has constituted his life work and as he has prospered from year to year he has increased his landed holdings until he is now the owner of five hundred and sixty-four acres situated in Tuscarawas, Jackson and Franklin townships. This land is all improved and tillable. Mr. Porteus gives his time and attention to general farming and stock-raising and through the study he has made of the soil, adaptation and rotation of crops has became a successful man, his labors being rewarded with excellent results.

Mr. Porteus is a democrat in his political views and while he keeps well informed on the current events of the day and the progress that is being made along political lines he has never been active as an office seeker. He is a member of the Methodist Protestant church. He is public-spirited, giving his aid and cooperation to every movement which tends to promote the moral, intellectual and material welfare of the community.

The estimable wife of Mr. Porteus bore the maiden name of Miss Susan F. Irwin, their marriage being celebrated March 21, 1877. Her parents were John and Fanny (Martin) Irwin, the former a prominent grain and realestate dealer of Detroit, Michigan. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Porteus has been blessed with two sons and a daughter: Irwin, Fanny and Leslie, all under the parental roof. The beautiful country home of the family is made more attractive through the hospitality that reigns therein, while the members of the household enjoy the good will and friendship of a host of warm and admiring friends.

Henry Speckman

One of the most picturesque country homes in New Castle township is the residence of Henry Speckman, his farm comprising one hundred and sixty-four and a half acres of land, and he also owns one hundred and fiftytwo and a half acres in another tract in Perry township. Mr. Speckman is a native son of Coshocton county, his birth having occurred in Jefferson township, February 15, 1854. His parents, John and Rosanna (Frederick) Speckman, were of German birth and came to the United States at an early day, being numbered among the pioneer settlers of Coshocton county. The family home was established in Jefferson township, where the father worked at the carpenter's trade, following the same until the time of his death, which occurred in 1863, his remains being interred in Gamesfelder cemetery. The mother who, as above stated, was also a native of Germany, was brought to America at the age of seven years and was here reared and married. She survived the father's-death for more than thirty years, dying in 1896. The family of Mr. and Mrs. John Speckman numbered eight children, as follows: Louisa, the wife of John Bender, of Jefferson township; Tiny and John, both of whom have passed away; Oaroline, the wife of Cornelius Foster, also of Jefferson township; Henry, of this review; Newton, who makes his home in Coshocton; Angeline, deceased; and William, who is engaged in the livery business in Warsaw.

Henry Speckman, the immediate subject of this review, acquired his education in the district schools of Jefferson township and remained under the parental roof to the age of eighteen years, when he started out in life on his own account, being employed at farm labor. He worked in this way until he had reached the age of twenty-six years, when he began farming on his own account. Although he started out with very limited means he is today the owner of one hundred and sixty-four and a half acres of rich and improved land in New Castle township, and he also owns a tract of one hundred and fifty-two and a half acres in Perry township. On his home farm stands a fine country residence, surrounded by a well kept lawn, in the rear of which are substantial barns and outbuildings. His fields, too, have been placed under a high state of cultivation and his farm on the whole presents one of the prettiest pictures in New Castle township. He carries on general agricultural pursuits and in his labors is meeting with unbounded success.

It was on the 26th of August, 1880, that Mr. Speckman was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie Rodock, a resident of Tiverton township. Their home has been graced with two children: Cordia W., who married Stella McCrowther and now lives on his father's farm in Perry township; and Douglas, who married Nona McCrowther and is on the home farm.

A democrat in principle and practice Mr. Speckman believes in a faith born of conviction, in the equality and brotherhood of man. He deserves great credit for what he has accomplished in the: business world, for starting out when a youth of eighteen years to make his own way in the world he has steadily pursued his way, undeterred by the obstacles which have barred his path, and today he stands among the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of Coshocton county.

Smith Jones

By sheer force of will and untiring effort Smith Jones has worked his way upward from a humble beginning until he is numbered among the leading businéss men of Isleta, where he is carrying on a grain and implement business. Mr. Jones was born in Coshocton county, November 25, 1841, ason of Wesley and Millie A. (Medley) Jones, who were likewise natives of the Buckeye state, and who died when our subject was a little lad of but six years. Their union was blessed with seven children: Amelia, Jane and Susan, who are deceased; John, a resident of Oxford township; Smith, of this review; Nathaniel, who served in the Civil war and was killed in the battle of Murfreesboro; and Wesley, who has departed this life.

As stated, Smith Jones was left an orphan when a little lad of six years, and at the age of nine years he began making his own way in the world. He was first employed as a farm hand until the outbreak of the Civil war, when in 1863 he enlisted as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Twentyninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for three years. He enlisted as a private and through his valor and loyalty won promotion to the rank of sergeant, being thus discharged at North Carolina, after having participated in many of the most important battles of the war.

Following the close of hostilities Smith Jones returned to Coshocton county, where for two years he worked as a farm hand. During this time he carefully saved his earnings and then established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Margaret A. Wolfe, who was born in Oxford township, a daughter of Samuel and Christina Wolfe, who came to this county at an early day. Both are now deceased, the mother passing away in 1871, while the father surviving for only a few years departed this life in 1875. Their family numbered five children.

After his marriage Mr. Jones purchased a farm, whereon he took up his abode and made his home for twenty-one years. He then removed to Isleta and engaged in the grain and implement business, in which he has continued with success to the present time. He buys and sells a large amount of grain each year, while his patronage in the implement business has reached large and extensive proportions. Mr. Jones has disposed of his farming property but now owns a fine residence in the village of Isleta, this being surrounded by seventeen acres of ground. As a business man he has a talent for leading, which is a necessity in these days of close competition to the man in the business world.

Mr. Jones has always supported the men and measures of the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has filled several township offices, having served for three terms as assessor, while he has also filled the office of township trustee and county land appraiser. Both he and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist Protestant church.

Mr. Jones is truly a self-made man. Drawing the lessons which we do from his life we learn that the qualifications necessary for success are a high ambition and a resolute, honorable purpose to reach the exalted standard that has been set up. From the early age of nine years he has depended upon his own resources and has won the proud American title of self-made man.

Henry Norris

Henry Norris is an enterprising and prosperous farmer, owning and operating the one hundred and sixty acres of land which has been his home since 1880. His farm is situated in Jackson township and he is thus numbered among its substantial citizens. He was born in Virginia township, October 23, 1842, a son of George W. and Susanna (Croy) Norris, of Virginia township. The paternal grandfather, Daniel Norris, came to Coshocton county in 1809 from Virginia with his father, William Norris, who served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Daniel Norris settled in Virginia township and entered land from the government, to which he later added by purchase until he became a large landowner. Farming has been the occupation of the family through several generations.

Henry Norris, whose name introduces this review, was educated in the district schools and was also reared to farm life. When he started out to make his own way in the world he choose the occupation to which he had been reared, and was engaged in farming in Virginia township until 1880, when he took up his abode on his present tract of land, this consisting of one hundred and sixty acres in Jackson township. It is a well improved tract, supplied with all conveniences and accessories, and Mr. Norris follows the most progressive ideas of agriculture, so that his labors are attended with good results. He also raises stock to some extent.

Mr. Norris chose as a companion and helpmate Miss Isabelle Platt, whom he wedded on the 31st of December, 1875. Their union has been blessed with eleven children, of whom ten are living: Jay T.; Clara, who has passed away; Theodocia, the wife of Oliver McCullough; Flay A.; Mary, now the wife of Martin Reed; Thomas; Ray; Pearl, the wife of Floyd Johnson; Joseph C.; Emmett O.; and Clarence.

Mr. Norris gives his political support to the man and measures of democracy but aside from serving as a school director has never been active as an office seeker. His religious views accord with the principles and doctrine of the Baptist church, of which he is a member. He possesses all the elements of what in this country we term a "square" man - one in whom to have confidence, a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. He is ever ready to meet any obligation of life with the confidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability and all with whom he is associated have for him high commendation and praise.

H. C. Miller

H. C. Miller is a member of the firm of H. C. & E. W. Miller, dealers in farm implements, products, coal, furniture, fertilizers, oil meal and seeds, and at the present writing is serving as Justice of the peace of Tiverton township. He is a native son of Coshocton county, born at Spring Mountain, March 19, 1864, a son of Lawrence and Magdalene (Rahn) Miller, both of whom were natives of Germany.

The father was born in Bavaria, and emigrating to the new world in 1855 located in Tiverton township. He was a shoemaker by trade and also followed farming. Although he came to the United States a poor boy he became a very successful man and was a leader in political circles. He was a man of great energy and ambition and at one time served as justice of the peace of his locality. He was a devoted and loyal member of the Evangelical church at Dutch Run, in which he took a very active and helpful part. His death occurred February 23, 1906, when he had attained the age of sixtyseven years. The mother, who was likewise a native of Bavaria, was born in August, 1842, and came with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry J. Rahn, to the United States in 1849. They landed at Castle Garden, New York, on New Years day of that year, and going to Buffalo, waited for canal navigation to open that they might continue their journey to Ohio. It was on the 28th of December, 1862, that she gave her hand in marriage to Lawrence Miller, and they became the parents of three sons: H. C., of this review; George M., a railroad man of Kent, Ohio; and Ed W., who is associated in business with our subject. The mother departed this life May 13, 1906, when she had reached the age of sixty-four years.