Coshocton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1909 (part 5 of 19)

Coshocton he took up the study of law in the office of Spangler & Pomerene and was admitted to the bar in December, 1881. He then began the active practice of law, in which he continued for two years with good success, but owing to the fact that the plant which was owned by his father was destroyed by fire, Mr. Hay gave up his law practice to assist his father in rebuilding and remodeling the factory and establishing the business on the basis on which it is now conducted. The factory, under the name of Houston Hay, manufactured carriage, wagon and buggy axles. In 1885 the firm of Houston Hay & Sons was organized and the business continued under that name until 1895, when it was taken over by The Houston Hay Axle Company. It is today one of the important productive industries of the city, employing eighty-five men during the busy season. The fact that the company specializes in the manufacture of axles gives it prestige and wide reputation in the manufacturing field and its product is sent to all parts of the country.

While Mr. Hay has met with success in this undertaking he has not confined his attention solely to one line but has extended his efforts into other fields whereby the city has profited while his individual prosperity has been enhanced. In 1893 he formed the Havana Cigar Company and that the business proved a growing one is indicated by the fact that while he started with ten cigarmakers, in 1898 he was employing one hundred and twenty-five people. In 1904, however, he closed out the business after a prosperous career in that line. Mr. Hay was also at one time president and a director of The Buckeye Pipe Line Company, organized for the purpose of piping gas to Coshocton. The company was organized in 1898 and ere Mr. Hay resigned in 1907 the business had been established on a safe foundation and was supplying the city with a good quality of gas at a low price. He is also a director of The H. D. Beach Company and a director of The Commercial National Bank, both of Coshocton.

On the 8th of June, 1882, Mr. Hay was married to Miss Nellie Hingeley. They had five children: Edna Lenore; Houston Hingeley, who died January 17, 1892; Ruth Warwick; George Roberts, who was born in 1896; and Walter Guilbert, born in 1902.

Mr. Hay is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is an enthusiast on the subject of baseball and fishing, finding great delight in witnessing a good game of ball or with rod enticing the finny tribe from favorite haunts. He is also well known in musical circles, was leader of the local band for fifteen years and for three years was bandmaster of the Seven: teenth Regiment, Ohio National Guard, during which time he succeeded in making his band the best in the state. Mr. Hay has been equally well known in political circles. In 1879 he became an active factor in republican politics and was made a member of the Coshocton County Executive Committee. The following year he was made chairman of that committee and continued to fill the position for twenty-five years or until 1905, taking a most active and helpful part in shaping the policy of the party in this county. In 1880 he was elected mayor of the city on the republican ticket although Coshocton was at that time a democratic stronghold. Two years later he was reelected and in 1884 refused the nomination. In 1886 at the urgent solicitation of his fellow townsmen, including representatives of both parties, he once more became a candidate and was elected in that year and in 1888, so that his services as chief executive covered eight years and was characterized by the utmost dispatch of the city's business and by unfaltering loyalty to the municipal welfare. He has been appointed three times by the state auditor to check up the books of the Society for Savings in Cleveland - one of the greatest banking institutions in the world. He has served as trustee of the Girls' Industrial Home, a state institution, having been appointed by Governor Foraker, his term extending from 1885 to 1889. By appointment of Governor McKinley he was one of the managers of the Ohio penitentiary from 1892 until 1896 and was appointed by Governor Nash, a member of the Ohio convict labor commission to investigate methods of employing convict labor in other states and to recommend, if possible, a better system for Ohio. He is now president of the board of review of Coshocton. He has been a member of the republican state central committee and the republican state executive committee. He has now practically retired from active participation in politics but could never cease to feel a deep interest in the questions and issues of the day because of his patriotic and progressive citizenship. His life has been one of signal usefulness to his city and state, and that he has wrought along the lines of the greatest good to the greatest number is a uniformly acknowledged fact.

Christian Norman

Christian Norman, owning three hundred and fifteen acres of valuable land in White Eyes township, was born in Oxford township, Coshocton county, Ohio, September 28, 1828, his parents being Isaac and Isabelle (Wise) Norman. The father was born on the Walhonding river, and when a boy of ten years accompanied his parents on their removal to Oxford township, where they purchased two hundred acres of land. In this pioneer district Isaac Norman was reared and when he had attained mature years began farming by taking a lease on a tract of land in Oxford township. Subsequently he took another lease on some land in Adams township, and afterward bought one hundred acres in Lafayette township, only seven acres of the tract having been cleared. After improving the property he sold the same, and bought a farm in White Eyes township, on which he made his home until called to his final rest. For fifty years he was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, but at the time of their demise both he and his wife were affiliated with the United Brethren denomination, there being no Methodist Episcopal church in the locality. Isaac Norman had been married twice and by his first union had twelve children, of whom our subject is the only one now living. The first wife, who was born in Oxford township, passed away about 1868, and Mr. Norman afterward wedded her sister, Sarah Wise.

Christian Norman was reared to the pursuits of the farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He had but little opportunity for attending school and never even saw a "temple of learning" for five whole years. At the end of that time he was sixteen years old, and owing to the fact that other young men of his age were far in advance of him in their studies, he did not wish to enter school again. However, in the school of experience he has learned many valuable lessons and through reading and observation has become a well informed man. When twenty years of age he began farming a tract of rented land in Lafayette township and was thus engaged for three years, on the expiration of which period he rented one hundred and sixty acres of his present farm from his father. Subsequently he purchased eighty acres of the place and as the years passed and success crowned his efforts, he added to his holdings from time to time until he now owns three hundred and fifteen acres of rich and productive land in White Eyes township. His original home, in which he lived for several years, was a log cabin, the dimensions of which were sixteen by eighteen feet. He attributes his present prosperity in large measure to his stock-raising interests, having now two hundred head of sheep and also raising cattle, hogs and horses. Though he now rents his farm, he still gives supervision thereto, and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the prominent and progressive agriculturists of the county.

Mr. Norman has been married twice. On the 28th of September, 1848, he wedded Miss Mary Ann Felver, whose birth occurred in Adams township and who passed away in 1855, when twenty-seven years of age. The five children of this union were as follows: Mary, the wife of Samuel Delsaver, of Mercer county, Ohio; Malinda, Moses and Sarah Ann, all of whom are deceased; and Margaret, the wife of Frank Emerson, of White Eyes township. On the 10th of April, 1856, Mr. Norman was again married, his second union being with Hannah McCleary, who was born near New Comerstown, Ohio, November 12, 1836. Her parents, Abraham and Sarah (Miller) McCleary, were both natives of New Jersey, in which state they were married. At an early day they removed to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, locating on a farm and there residing until called to their final rest. Their family numbered nine children, two of whom survive, namely: Susan, the widow of

'John Norman, of Fresno, Ohio; and Mrs. Hannah Norman. Unto our subject and his second wife have been born ten children, namely: Susan, the wife of William Hill, of New Comerstown, Ohio; John D., a resident of Strasburg, Ohio; Frank, of New Comerstown, Ohio; Hattie, the wife of David Gibson, of Wheeling, West Virginia; Clayton, living in New Comerstown; Etta, who makes her home in Okahoma; Bessie, at home; Ada, the wife of Theodore Neighbor, of Oklahoma; Sophia, at home; and one who died in infancy.

In his political views Mr. Norman is a stanch republican and has served as road supervisor and in a number of school offices, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. For fifty years he was identified with the United Brethren church but the congregation became so diminished that it was disbanded, and since that time he has been a member of the

Methodist Episcopal church at Fresno, having ever contributed liberally of his time and means to the cause of religion. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life, he is well and favorably known here and is widely recognized as one of its public-spirited, prosperous and enterprising citizens.

James T, Edwards, M.D.

Dr. James T.-Edwards was born near East Union, in Perry township, Coshocton county, Ohio, in 1830, and was therefore in his seventy-fifth year at the time of his death. He attended school at the academy at West Bedford and at Hayesville, Ohio. He read medicine in the office of Dr. John Russell, of Mt. Vernon, and was graduated in 1856 from the medical department of the University of New York city. Immediately after his graduation, Dr. Edwards entered upon the practice of medicine at West Carlisle, where he practiced continuously for forty-six years.

Shortly after beginning the practice of medicine, Dr. Edwards was married to Miss Sarah 8. Marquand. Mrs. Edwards was a woman of unusual strength of mind and character, and was a useful companion and helpmate. Mrs. Edwards died in 1889. Their four children who survive are, Mrs. Belle Cochran, Russell C., Edwin S. and Grace.

Dr. Edwards served in the Civil war as assistant surgeon in the ninetyseventh Ohio Regiment. His services continued for one year, when he was obliged to return home on account of disability. Coshocton city has had no man of more distinct character than Dr. Edwards. He was at all times a model country gentleman, of broad culture and a range of information befitting the man of affairs that he was. He took a keen interest in all that was going on in the world's theater of human affairs and had deep seated convictions on all great questions at issue and was never lacking in courage or ability to assert them in ways that were well understood. Although he took a deep interest in politics, Dr. Edwards never held public office in his life, being obliged many times to refuse the importunities of his many friends to tender him nominations. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church at West Carlisle. As a physician, Dr. Edwards stood among the first and foremost and in his long years of practice, covering a period of almost a half century, he enjoyed the implicit confidence of the whole people of the large scope of country over which his practice extended. He was above all, a man among men and was always deeply solicitous for the welfare of his neighbors and friends. He shared with them in all matters with his counsel-and advice and was helpful in all such ways as are embodied in the ties and impulses of friendship. In all relations with men the first and foremost thought was rugged honesty, fair dealing and strict observance of the common laws that emanate from a sensitive and discriminating conscience. These sturdy traits that were ever present in his character endeared him to all of the people of a lofty mind. His demise was sorely felt in the community of which he was so important a part, and the memories of his precept and example will live long after him, an inscription upon the imperishable rock of time. No greater tribute can be paid to the life and character of Dr. Edwards than a simple narrative of his works without embelplishments of extravagant phrase, for the naked truth speaks more eloquently in his praise. He was a man of deeds rather than of words or pretense and when the Book of Records is closed the summary reads "Well done."

Harry Ferguson

By the purchase of this book Harry Ferguson, of West Lafayette, is permitted to have his obituary appear in this long list of the distinguished citizens of Coshocton county. Mr. Ferguson was born some years ago, but, being single, no one around West Lafayette is so unkind as to tell the date. Hence this item will have to be omitted. He is a son of Vincent and Rachel Ferguson, the former deceased. His birthplace is just east of West Lafayette, on "The Experiment Farm," where he now resides.

Mr. Ferguson is a self-made man, except the first twenty-five or thirty years of his life, during which time his parents very kindly assisted in supporting him. As abeve indicated, he is single, but not by his own choosing, and is doing all he can at this writing to obey the injunction: "Tt is not well for man, ete."

Mr. Ferguson is editor and proprietor of The Indicator, an eight-page periodical circulating among the folks pretty generally between Turkey Lock and Possum Hollow, and now and then turning up most anywhere between the Androscoggin and the Sandwich Islands. The paper is a high class publication, printed on a perplex press just behind the stove. Every Thursday Dan, the foreman, and Mr. Ferguson alternate their number nines at the power plant.

On the side, Mr. Ferguson looks after "The Experiment Farm," a broad expanse of hard work and horse sorrel. This farm produces some of the finest. elderberries in America, and blackberries and taxes grow in riotous profusion. And it has some old fence rows that produce as fine and com-

Mr. Ferguson belongs to the Methodist Protestant church and the Blue Hole Fishing Club, two local organizations working side by side for the betterment of mankind. Politically he is a democrat, into which belief he came by a long line of inheritance, without much effort on his part. It wasn't a struggle for the rights of the common people or anything of that kind - just born that way. He doesn't take politics to heart in a violent manner and have spasms when he hears the warwhoop. However, he is now serving his country very creditably in a township office, the emoluments of which are about fifty dollars per year, which, much to his embarrassment, is not payable in time for the Coshocton County Fair.

Further than this, there isn't much to be said about the defendant. He never went to war, never served in high office, never married an heiress.

He never invented anything for the good of humanity, never broke any records. He is not a son of the Revolution, nor the father of a celebrated halfback. He is only the scion of a son of Erin who didn't get over here in time to whip the English. But had the latter arrived a few years sooner the war would have been much shorter and the subject of this sketch would now have some interesting heirlooms in the garret. Mr. Ferguson is simply a plain citizen, with two changes of shirts, a splendid digestion three times a day and just enough debts to keep him from cavorting around over Europe every summer. His only distinction is a gladness that he's living: and a hope that when his summons comes for the next history he'll be a millionaire, with his wife traveling in Italy, and will get into the book with two columns and a halftone on one of the front pages, and at a greatly reduced price, such as not to embarrass him financially.

Levi N. Norris

Levi N. Norris has gained distinction as being the largest landowner in Coshocton county, owning seven hundred and twenty-five acres in Pike township, where he follows farming and stock-raising. He is a native of Greene county, Pennsylvania, born May 17, 1839, of the marriage of Thomas and Maria (Phillips) Norris. The father died in the Keystone state in 1854, subsequent to which time the mother with her five children, of whom Levi was the eldest, came to Coshocton county, arriving in the winter of 1855-6.

Levi N. Norris was a youth of sixteen years at the time the family removed to Coshocton county and all the educational advantages he enjoyed was prior to coming to this state, for he was permitted to attend school but two days in this county, his services being needed in the support of the family. He was employed at farm labor for several years, during which time he carefully saved his earnings, which he used to purchase a team and a few farm implements to begin life on his own responsibility. He rented land for a few years but in 1862 had saved a sum sufficient to enable him to invest in fifty acres, which constitutes a portion of his present homestead property. As the years have gone by he has prospered in his undertakings and as his financial resources have permitted he has added to his original holdings until his possessions now embrace seven hundred and twenty-five acres and he is accounted the largest landowner in the county. All of his land is well improved and has been placed under a high state of cultivation, so that he meets with more than fair success in his operations as a general farmer and stock-raiser. He makes a specialty of sheep, cattle and horses and this branch of his business is proving profitable. He has never taken advantage of another in any trade transaction, so that his success has been worthily and honorably won.

Mr. Norris was married June 4, 1884, to Miss Adaline Chaney, a daughter of Lewis and Catherine (Ashcraft) Chaney, and she has proved to him a valuable assistant on the journey of life. Mr. Norris is a-democrat in his political views and affiliations and has served as township trustee and school director for several years. While not accepting some of the dogmas of religious bodies and uniting with no church, he nevertheless is deeply interested in the moral progress of the community and is a liberal contributor to religious work. He and his estimable wife occupy a beautiful modern home and enjoy all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. Mr. Norris is a splendid example of a self-made man, for he started out in life without any extraordinary family or pecuniary advantages and by indomitable courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune.

Clarence Thomas

Clarence Thomas, shipping clerk with the Meek Company, in which connection he has large responsibilities and arduous duties, was born in Roscoe, October 14, 1851. His father, William Thomas, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Coshocton in 1821 and settled in Tonica Creek in Bedford township, where his father entered land from the government. William Thomas was then but a.boy and in the early years of his residence here he assisted in the arduous task of developing new land, transforming the wild tract into productive fields. When a young man, however, he learned the blacksmith's trade and followed that pursuit in Coshocton during the greater part of his life, although he worked for two seasons on the construction of the Ohio state canal. His political support was given the democracy.

As a student in the public schools Clarence Thomas mastered the branches of learning that qualified him for life's practical duties. At the age of seventeen years he apprenticed himself to the molder's trade, at which he worked for ten years and then, on account of his health, he abandoned that pursuit and for some years was employed in various ways. In 1895 he entered the service of the Standard Advertising Company and after the merging of that company with the Meek Company he continued with the new organization, which conducted its business under the firm style of the Beach & Meek Company. At length the interests were separated and Mr. Thomas remained with the Meek Company, which he has now represented as shipping clerk for more than thirteen years. In this connection he has entire charge of shipments and the position is one of large responsibility and importance, as upon him depends the quick delivery of goods to patrons - a feature in the success of the house.

Mr. Thomas gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He is a broad reader and while his early school privileges were somewhat limited, he is today a well informed man who keeps in touch with all questions of general moment. He belongs to Coshocton Lodge, No. 96, A. F. & A. M., Samaritan Chapter, No. 50, R. A. M., and became a charter member of Coshocton Commandery, No. 63, K. T. He is a worthy exemplar of the craft and is also a faithful member of the Maccabees tent in Coshocton. Strong purpose, laudable ambition and fidelity to the interests entrusted to his care have constituted the strong features in his business career and have brought to him a remunerative posicdon.

Professor Alexander C. McDonald holds high rank with the educators of this section of Ohio who are connected with the public-school system. For the past five years he has been superintendent of the schools of Roscoe, which under his direction have made substantial advance along lines which have kept them in touch with the most progressive educational methods of the present day. With deep interest in his work, Professor McDonald has labored earnestly for the improvement of the schools with which he has been connected and has inspired pupils and teachers with much of his own zeal and interest.

Professor McDonald is numbered among the native sons of Coshocton county, his birth having occurred in New Moscow, April 14, 1858. His parents were William and Jane (McClannahan) McDonald, both natives of Muskingum county, Ohio, and both of Scotch descent. William McDonald removed to Coshocton county soon after his marriage, which was celebrated about 1845, settling in Virginia township, where he engaged in farming, and with the exception of a short period of two years he spent the remainder of his life in that township, there passing away September 23, 1908. He was a republican in polities and, while never an office seeker, he served for thirtysix years as justice of the peace, being elected again and again by those who recognized his unfaltering fidelity to duty, knowing that his opinions were ever free from judicial bias or personal prejudice. He was'an active and devoted member of the Christian church and his life, ever upright and honorable, commanded .for him the unqualified respect of those with whom he came in contact. Those who knew him were glad to be numbered among his friends and one-could always win his friendship by a straightforward life and upright character. His wife, a most estimable lady, died July 26, 1895, at the age of sixty-nine years.

The environments and conditions of farm life were known to Alexander C. McDonald in his boyhood days. Having mastered the branches of learning taught in the village school of New Moscow, he afterward attended Antioch College at Yellow Springs, Ohio, and on completing his course there returned home. In the fall of 1879 he entered upon the profession of teaching, being employed at Conesville, where he taught for one year. He was for eleven years a teacher of the schools in New Moscow, although his work there was not continuous, being interrupted at various times by teaching in other localities. He finally returned to Conesville, where he spent three years as superintendent of the schools and in the fall of 1901 he came to Roscoe as assistant superintendent of schools. Two years later he was chosen superintendent and has since ably served in this capacity, instituting many modern methods and needed reforms. He is a broad-minded man and an able educator, who holds to high ideals in his profession and accomplishes what he undertakes. He has been identified with educational work continuously for twenty-nine years and the cause of public instruction in this locality has been largely promoted through his efforts and influence. During the past two years he has served as college examiner.

Professor McDonald was the candidate of the republican party for the office of county sheriff in the fall of 1908. This nomination came to him largely as the result of the friendship and labors of many who hold him in high regard and believe that he will prove a competent official. They urged him to allow his name to be presented before the republican convention and although he had two strong opponents in the field he was nominated by a good majority. At the election November 3 it was found that he had received a majority of one hundred and seventy-three, although the democratic party usually had a majority of five hundred in the county and Bryan received that many more votes than Taft.

On the 2d of October, 1884, Professor McDonald was married to Miss Jennie Finnell,-of Roscoe, Ohio, and they have become the parents of three children, Newton, Blanche and George, but the younger son is now deceased. The elder son is a teacher in the district schools and is preparing himself for a college course in civil engineering. The daughter is the wife of Raymond R. Raymond and has been identified with theatrical work since her marriage February 27, 1907.

Professor McDonald is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Roscoe and is serving on its board of trustees, while in all departments of the church work he is deeply interested. Like the great majority of men who are students and whose lives have been passed along lines demanding intellectual activity, Professor McDonald is interested in those things which promote honorabie manhood and develop high character. His influence is found on the side of intellectual and moral progress and he always has a hand outreaching to assist a fellow traveler on life's journey.

David Everhart

David Everhart, deceased, was born in White Eyes township, Coshocton county, Ohio, March 8, 1833, his parents being Frederick and Elizabeth (Mizer) Everhart, who were natives of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and were among the earliest settlers of White Eyes township. Their family numbered four children, ail of whom are now deceased.

David Everhart was reared on the old home farm in his native township and assisted his father in the work of the fields until the latter's death. In 1871 he purchased the farm of one hundred and eleven acres in White Eyes township that is now owned by his children, and there successfully carried on agricultural pursuits until called to his final rest. In addition to the work of general farming he was also extensively engaged in stock-raising and bought and sold a great many horses. In fact, he was one of the best judges of horse flesh in the county, being able to give the correct value of an animal almost at a glance. He was well known and highly esteemed as one of the prosperous and enterprising citizens of the community, and gained the confidence and good will of all with whom he came in contact by reason of his straightforward and honorable dealings under all circumstances. The main portion of the residence which stands on the Everhart farm is over one hundred years old and was one of the first frame houses erected in this part of the county. The same floor and the same plastering have done service since the time of its construction.

On the 16th of January, 1862, Mr. Everhart was united in marriage to Miss Sophia Gonter, whose birth occurred in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, July 2, 1840, her parents being Jacob and Elizabeth (Stilgenbower) Gonter, the former a native of Tuscarawas county and the latter of Germany. The mother was born in 1813 and when eighteen years of age accompanied her parents on their emigration to the new world, the family home being established in Tuscarawas county, Ohio. There she gave her hand in marriage to Jacob Gonter and they resided on a farm in that county until the time of their demise. The father of Mrs. Everhart, whose birth had occurred in 1814, passed away August 5, 1898, while her mother's death occurred on the 7th of October, 1884. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children, six of whom still survive, namely: Mrs. Everhart; Elizabeth, the wife of Samuel Wyler, of Ragersville, Ohio; Mary, the wife of John Saunterman, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Sylvester, a resident of White Eyes township; Adeline, the wife of Adam Dook, of White Eyes township; and George, living in Tuscarawas county.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Everhart were born six children, as follows: Calvin, of White Eyes township; Mary E., the wife of Wilber Ely, of Crawford township; Saloma, the wife of Jacob Leavengood, Coshocton; Walter, a resident of Coshocton; Ella, the wife of Henry Hooper, of Keene township; and Milton, who operates the home farm for his mother.

In his political views Mr. Everhart was a republican, while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the English Lutheran church, with which his widow is identified. Mrs. Everhart has won the regard and friendship of all who know her because of her genuine personal worth and many excellent traits of heart and mind.

William Allen Mizer

The field of opportunity is limitless in this land, which is unhampered by caste or class, and the man who has detarmiriation. and energy may carve out his fortune to suit himself. Recognizing this fact Mr. Mizer has steadily worked his way upward undeterred by obstacles or difficulties and today he occupies a prominent position as one of the leading representatives of fire insurance in Ohio. The Mizer family, of which William A. Mizer is a representative, was founded in Pennsylvania at an early period in the history of this country and during the pioneer epoch in the history of Jefferson county, Ohio, representatives of the name settled in Germano near Jefferson county, Ohio. The family is noted for longevity, one of its members dying at the advanced age of one hundred and two years, while the sister of his paternal grandmother reached the age of ninety-seven years.

Phillip Mizer, the grandfather of our subject removed to Shanesville, Ohio, and became a prominent and influential resident of that community. He was a cabinetmaker by trade and also engaged in making coffins. For thirty years he served as justice of the peace and was well known throughout the district as Squire Mizer. He was a handsome man, well proportioned and the strength of his character made him one of the leading citizens of his community. He was married at Germano to Margaret Schultz. Their son, George P. Mizer, was born at Shanesville, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and devoted his life to farming, in which business he was quite successful. THe was a man of intensely patriotic spirit and did everything in his power to promote the best interests of his county, state and nation. In 1846 he married Miss Catherine Hagen, a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, who in her girlhood days was brought to Ohio by her parents, the family home being established near New Comerstown. The death of George P. Mizer occurred June 30, 1886, but his widow still survives at the age of eighty-one years.

Upon the home farm William A. Mizer was reared and when not busy with his text-books as a district-school student he aided in the work of the home farm, assisting in the cultivation of the fields from the time of early spring planting. His preliminary education was supplemented by study in a select school at New Comerstown, which he attended through two winter seasons. At the age of nineteen years he began work in a country store and in early life he was inured to had labor and learned the value of untiring industry and perseverance. On the 9th of September, 1865, he began clerking for the firm of Mizer & Ley for five dollars per month. His duties were manifold and included the janitor work in the store and the currying of the horses, besides making sales. That he proved capable and faithful is indi- : cated by the fact that he was frequently entrusted to conduct the business in the absence of the proprietors and at one time five thousand dollars was left in his care. He remained in that store for three years and while there learned the German language, for there were many German speaking people in the neighborhood. He afterward became a salesman in the employ of J. W. Pierce and subsequently, as the result of his diligence and economy, he was enabled, in connection with John H. Lovelace, to purchase this store which he conducted for three years. Selling out on account of his health he afterward engaged in the sale of farm implements for one year and on the 3d of January, 1873, he became connected with the insurance business, accepting the agency in Coshocton county for the Farmers Insurance Company of Leroy, Ohio. He also represented the interests of the company in Holmes county, Ohio, and is still engaged in the business, controlling today the largest fire insurance agency in Coshocton. Prior to his removal to this city he lived in Bakersville until September 1, 1890. He has done business in this county for the past thirty-five years and has a wide acquaintance throughout its borders.

Mr. Mizer has always been active in polities and is a stalwart advocate of democratic principles. On the 9th of November, 1899, he was elected clerk of the courts of Coshocton county and served for three years. In 1903 he was again chosen for that office and continued in the position until 1906. Otherwise he has never sought political preferment but has been content to do his duty-as a citizen in private relations, giving his aid and influence to every measure calculated to prove of public benefit. He has been president of the Citizens Building & Loan Association since 1894 and is proving an excellent executive officer, at the same time carefully controlling his insurance business, in which connection he represents about twenty companies.

On the 22d of November, 1870, Mr. Mizer was married to Miss Helen M. Pierce and they now have three children: French V., born July 16, 1875; Blake V., born February 13, 1880; and Audrey V., March 8, 1888. Mr. Mizer is a Royal Arch Mason, and is most loyal to the teachings of the craft and is in hearty sympathy with its principles of mutual helpfulness and brotherly kindness. His reliability in business, his consideration for the rights and interests of others, his activity in support of progressive community affairs and his faithfulness in the discharge of every obligation that devolves upon him, have made him one of the popular and respected citizens of Coshocton.

James R. Park

James R. Park, a member of the firm of Park & Renner, owners of the planing-mill at Fresno, was born in White Eyes township, this county, on March 26, 1862, a son of W. H. Park, a sketch of whose life appears elsewhere in this volume. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a common-school education. At the age of twenty years he began to learn the carpenter's trade, and thus early became interested in the lumber product, with which he familiarized himself to the fullest detail by working in a sawmill during the winter months for fifteen successive years, following his trade of carpentering during the months of summer. In 1893 Mr. Park located in Fresno and from that time on devoted his entire attention to carpentering until in 1908, when in conjunction with Philip Renner he equipped a sawmill plant with all modern machinery and engaged in the manufacture of lumber, handling it from the log to the finished product. Their output consists of window sashes, door frames, and all kinds of mill work. Their patronage has been most liberal and the business has been a thriving one from the outset. In addition to his milling interests, Mr. Park is also a director and treasurer of the Avondale Glove Company, of which he was one of the organizers.

On May 28, 1884, Mr. Park was united in marriage to Miss Salema Boyd who, like himself, is a native of White Eyes township, born May 30, 1860. She is the daughter of Samuel T. and Sophia (Caton) Boyd. Her father died in 1888 at the age of fifty-five years while her mother, who is now sixty-three years of age, is a resident of Coshocton. They were the parents of four children, of whom three are living, namely: Salema, the wife of our subject; Luella, the wife of Mero Weir, of Coshocton; and Blanche, the wife of Bert Todd, also of Coshocton. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Park have been born six children, namely: Orval, who is attending Delaware college; Walter, Russell and Virgil, all of whom reside at home with their parents. Walter is engaged in teaching, while Russell is a graduate of the Fresno high school. Lester, the oldest, and Bertha, the youngest, are deceased. ;

Politically Mr. Park is a republican, though he has never aspired to public office. He has ever taken an active interest in educational matters, and is now a member of the board of education. Fraternally, he is a member of Fresno Lodge, No. 11688, M. W. A., of which he is treasurer, and he and his wife are also members of the Royal Neighbors. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the United Presbyterian church, in which he holds the office of treasurer.

Andrew Stephon

Andrew Stephon needs no introduction to the readers of this volume for he is a well known business man of Bakersville, where he is successfully engaged in merchandising. He has also been active in community affairs and his labors in behalf of public progress have been far-reaching and beneficial. He was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, November 3, 1853, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Eckert) Stephon, both of whom were natives of Germany. They remained residents of that land until 1842, when they came to America and established their home in Tuscarawas county. 'The father was a tailor by trade, but after reaching the new world turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits, owning and cultivating a farm in Tuscarawas county up to the time of his death, which occurred in June, 1888. His widow survived him for about eight years and passed away in 1895. They were the parents of thirteen children, of whom eight are living: Margaret, the wife of Fred Eckfelt is living in Port Washington, Ohio; Henry, whose home is in Guernsey county, Ohio; Caroline, the wife of Valentine Goedle, a resident of Blackband, Ohio; Adam, whose home is in Tuscarawas county; Emma, the wife of Mark Miller also living in Tuscarawas county; William, of the same county; Mary the wife of David Vanostran of Tuscarawas county; and Andrew, of this review.

Andrew Stephon spent the days of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, and acquired his education in the common schools. During the periods of vacation he worked in the fields, assisting in the plowing, planting and harvesting, but at length he put aside agricultural interests. He then became a dealer in sewing machines and continued in that business for ten years, when he believed that his experience and his capital, acquired through his previous industry and economy, justified his becoming a factor in commercial lines. Therefore, in 1887 he turned his attention to mercantile lines in Bakersville. There he has conducted business continuously since, having a well appointed store. His sales are now quite extensive and the enterprise is proving profitable.

In 1877 Mr. Stephon married Miss Clara Andrews, who was born in Tuscarawas county in 1856. Her father died in December, 1899, but her mother is still living and yet makes her home in Bakersville. Mrs. Stephon was one of a family of seven children, and by her marriage has become the mother of three daughters: Jessie is the wife of R. T. Leach, who is in partnership with her father, and by this marriage there is one son, Andrew; Stella J. is the wife of E. D. Swagert, of New Comerstown, Ohio, and they have one daughter, Dorothea K.; Mildred M., a graduate of the Bakersville high school, is yet at home.

The parents are consistent and faithful members of the Presbyterian church, and they occupy an enviable position in social circles, where intelligence is regarded as an essential factor to agreeableness. Mr. Stephon is well known as a leading republican of his community, and for three terms filled the office of assessor. He has also served on the school board and was postmaster under presidents Harrison and McKinley. His official duties have always been discharged with the utmost promptness and fidelity, and he is widely recognized as a citizen of genuine worth whether found in business, political and social relations.

Thomas J. Hanley

The prosperity of any community, town or city depends upon its commercial activity, its industrial interests and its trade relations and therefore among the builders of a town are those who stand at the head of its business enterprises. In this relation Thomas J. Hanley deserves mention. He has for eighteen years been engaged in the milling business and is now president of the Hanley Milling Company, one of the successful and important productive industries of the city. He was born in County Limerick, Ireland, July 12, 1859, and his parents, David and Ann (Carey) Hanley, were also natives of County Limerick. They came to the United States with their family of seven children in 1862 and settled in Steubenville, Ohio, where they continued to reside until called to the home beyond. The father passed away in 1874 at the age of sixty-two years, while his wife died at the age of seventy-eight.

Thomas J. Hanley was but three years old when his parents sailed across the Atlantic and became residents of the new world. He attended the public schools of Steubenville and afterward continued his education in the Curry Institute of Pittsburg. He started in business life at the age of seventeen years in company with his two brothers, Richard and Joseph P. Hanley, the former now engaged in the real-estate business in Sheridan, Pennsylvania, while the latter was practicing law in Toledo, this state, at the time of his death, which occurred in July, 1908. The brothers formed a partnership and engaged in the manufacture of brooms in Steubenbville for two years. Thomas J. Hanley then turned his attention to railroading, with which business he was connected for five years.

In the year 1886 occurred the marriage of Mr. Hanley and Miss Mary M. O'Connor, of Cresson Springs, Pennsylvania, and immediately following his marriage Mr. Hanley engaged in general merchandising in Dennison, Ohio, where he remained until July, 1891. Selling out his business there, he came to Coshocton in' the same year and succeeded J. F. Williams & Son in the milling business, forming a partnership with Samuel Ferguson. They operated the mill under the firm name of Ferguson & Hanley until 1896, when Mr. Hanley purchased his partner's interest and carried on the business individually. In 1904, however, the business was incorporated under the name of the Hanley Milling Company, with Mr. Hanley as the president and general manager. This has become an important industry of the city. The mill is equipped with the latest improved machinery and modern appliances and is one of the largest in Coshocton. The excellence of their product insures them a liberal patronage and the company is kept busy filling orders from all parts of the surrounding country. The output of the house is now large and the scope of manufacture includes White Lily, Early Riser and Snow Flake flours. They also manufacture meal and feed and deal in grain. Mr. Hanley is also president of the Sixth Street theater. He igs a man of forceful character and marked individuality and is gathering the generous harvest which is the just recompense of indomitable energy.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hanley have been born six children: Veronica, Delsie, Thomas, Ambrose, Jerome and Mary Margaret, all of whom are under the parental roof. Mr. Hanley is a member of Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E.; Coshocton Council, No. 994, K. C.; and the Catholic church. His interest in community affairs is not a matter of idle assertion. On the contrary he is a worker for the public good and is now the president of the Coshocton County Good Roads Association. He stands for progress not only in his business affairs but in public life as well and his efforts are proving far-reaching and beneficial.

John Wagoner

While well known in business affairs as a representative of agricultural and stock-raising and breeding interests, John Wagoner has also figured prominently in local political circles and has been especially active and helpful in support of movements for the improvement of roads. He is now serving as road commissioner and in other cities has done effective service for the

A native of Muskingum county, Ohio, Mr. Wagoner was born June 21, 1834, a son of John and Barbara (Shurtz) Wagoner, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The father went to Muskingum county, Ohio, as a young man, while the mother located there during her girlhood days with her parents. John Wagoner was born in 1796 and while still a resident of Pennsylvania assisted in building the ships which composed Commodore Perry's fleet on Lake Erie during the war of 1512. He volunteered to Perry before the battle but owing to his youth and a full complement of men he was not accepted. On coming to Muskingum county he turned his attention to farming, with. which he was identified during his active life. He died in 1879 upon the farm where the birth of his son John occurred, and on which he had long made his home, transforming the place from a wild, unimproved tract of land into one of rich fertility. His early political support was given to the whig party, and on its dissolution he joined the ranks of the republican party, believing firmly that its principles were most conducive to good government. While never an office seeker he was a factor in the party councils, and his fellow townsmen called him to serve in various township positions. In the community he was regarded as a man of influence, for it was known that his views of hfe were sound and progressive and that he manifested an unusual interest in puble affairs.

Mr. Wagoner, whose name introduces this review, was reared at home, acquiring his education in the common schools of the township. At twentyone years of age he began teaching and for fifteen years followed the profession, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge which he had acquired. During these years he was also engaged in farming and in the operation of a sawmill and a threshing-machine. He introduced the second portable sawmill ever brought into the county and was also the owner of one of the early threshers here. Leaving Muskingum county in 1859, he removed to Coshocton county and for four years was a resident of Tuscarawas township. Susequently he removed to Franklin township, where he has since resided, and since 1869 has made his home continuously on the farm of one hundred and ninety-three acres, which is still to him a gratifying source of revenue. The fields annually return golden harvests, and in addition to the tilling of the soil he has made a specialty of the breeding and raising of Merino sheep, while for several years he has also extensively engaged in buying wool. His business judgment is usually correct and his enterprise has placed him among the men of affluence in his community.

While he has capably conducted his business interests, Mr. Wagoner has also figured prominently in republican circles and for years has taken an active part in the work of the organization, his opinions carrying weight in its councils. He has likewise been a stalwart and helpful advocate of the cause of public education and served for several years as a member of the school board, while at the present time he is treasurer of the board. He has likewise favored higher education and in fact does all in his power to promote intellectual progress. Something of his personal popularity is indicated by the fact that while living in a township which is regarded as a democratic stronghold he is now serving as township treasurer. He has also been elected and reelected justice of the peace, until his incumbency in the office covers twelve years, during which time his decisions were strictly fair and impartial, winning for him the commendation of all law-abiding citizens. He has for years been an advocate of good roads and has done much to better the condition of public highways in Coshocton county. Under a special act authorizing not less than four townships to improve the roads by special taxation he was appointed a road commissioner in 1907 for the townships of Franklin, Tuscarawas, Jackson and Keene, and in this capacity has done much to further the good roads movement here, his labors being manifested in practical results which have met with the approval of the citizens of this part of the county.

Mr. Wagoner has been married twice. In 1858 he wedded Miss Catherine Zimmer, of Muskingum county, and unto them were born six children, of whom four are living, namely: Ada Alice, the wife of Andrew Brannon, of Franklin township; Henry Howard, a fruit-grower of Stanislaus county, California; Judson E., superintendent of the Coshocton Iron Works, at Monongahela, Pennsylvania; and William A., a farmer of Franklin township. The wife and mother died in 1883, and in 1885 Mr. Wagoner married Mrs. Hattie Welling, nee Lewis, of Falls township, Muskingum county, a daughter of George Lewis, who was one of the early scttlers there and was prominent in community affairs, serving as the first clerk of the court in Muskingum county and as one of its first surveyors, being employed by the government.

Mr. Wagoner is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry and has always taken an active part in religious work, being now one of the members and trustees of St. Paul's Lutheran church in Franklin township. His life has been well spent. For a period of almost a half century he has lived in Coshocton county, and has not only been an interested witness of its growth and improvement, but has contributed in substantial measure to its development, while as a business man he has made a creditable record, and that his social qualities prove attractive is indicated by his large circle of friends.

John McCoy, the father of our subject, came to Ohio in 1806 in company with his parents, Joseph and Milly McCoy, and first located at Zanesville, but the following winter removed to Virginia township, Coshocton county, where a cabin was built in midwinter. Upon that farm the family made their home for ten years and it is now owned by William McGee. The boys of the McCoy household spent most of their time playing with the Indians as there were no schools to attend. In 1817, at the age of twenty-two years, John McCoy entered a tract of land in Virginia township, consisting of four hundred acres, and since that far-distance date the McCoy farm has changed hands but once, that being from John McCoy to Abner, the subject of this sketch.

Abner McCoy did his full share 'in the development and improvement of a tract of land of four hundred acres and it was only during a few weeks of the winter months that he was permitted to attend school, therefore his advantages in that direction were very limited. Mr. McCoy began life on his own account on the farm which has always been his home, this being one of the largest and most productive tracts of land in Coshocton county. In addition to doing general farming he also raises stock on quite an extensive scale, keeping only that of the highest grades.

Mr. McCoy was married on the 18th of October, 1871, to Miss Elizabeth Meek, a daughter of Asa and Virginia Meek, residents of Virginia township. Their union was blessed with seven children, three sons and four daughters. The sons are George F., Asa and William A., while the daughters are: Virginia, the wife of Harvey Cox; Sarah J., the wife of Edward Dickinson; Margaret B.; and Mabel V. The wife and mother passed to her final reward February 26, 1908, and thus the community lost one of its most highly esteemed women and the household a devoted and loving wife and mother.

Mr. McCoy gives his political support to the democratic party and in 1887 was elected a member of the board of county commissioners, serving for two terms, or six years. He brought to the office sound judgment and good business sense, and in political circles is held in high esteem. He also served as school director for several years and at the present writing is a member of the township board of education. He is a public-spirited citizen, whose worth well merits the high regard in which he is uniformly held.

Jacob Edmond Wolfe

Jacob Edmond Wolfe, who follows farming in Tuscarawas township, is a representative of one of the oldest families of this county. Hardly had the work of improvement and development been begun when his grandparents settled in this part of the state. The Indians still visited the neighborhood and only here and there had a white man established a home and laid claim to the land, planting the seeds of civilization on virgin soil. The grandparents came from Pennsylvania in the year of 1812 and settled on White Eyes plains, where the grandfather acquired extensive landed properties.

There, amid the wild scenes of pioneer life, George Wolfe, the father of our subject, was reared. He was born in Pennsylvania and was therefore ten years of age when he came with his parents to Ohio. He assisted in the arduous task of developing a new farm and experienced many of the hardships and privations of pioneer life. After arriving at years of maturity he married Miss Annis Salyards, who was born in this county. They settled in Keene township, where George Wolfe, who was a tanner by trade, followed the tanning business for some years, meeting with excellent success in his undertakings. He also became one of the extensive farmers of the county, acquiring twelve hundred acres of land, which he managed in con- nection with his tanning interests. His political support was given to the democratic party and he served for one term as county commissioner. He was also a deacon in the Baptist church and took an active and helpful interest in the church work. No measure for the benefit of the community failed to receive his endorsement and cooperation and he was regarded as a valued resident of the county. He died November 11,-1886, at the advanced age of eighty-four years.

Jacob Edmond Wolfe, whose name introduces this review, was born on the home farm in Keene township, August 2, 1864, and as his age and strength permitted he assisted more and more largely in the work of the farm, alternating his time between the labors of the fields and the duties of the schoolroom. He attended successively the district schools, the high school of Louisville, Ohio, and the Keene Academy. As his father was then in advanced years, Jacob Edmond Wolfe took up the work of the home farm and managed the property. He continued to reside thereon for five years after his father's death or until the spring of 1891, when he removed to his present farm in Tuscarawas township - a property that came to him through inheritance. It is splendidly improved, being equipped with all modern conveniences and accessories. A substantial home, good barns and substantial outbuildings stand in the midst of well tilled fields, and everything about the place is indicative of his care and supervision.

In 1901 Mr. Wolfe was married to Miss Amelia Jones of West Lafayette, this county, and they have two children, Guida Maria and Dean Samuel. Mr. Wolfe votes with the democratic party and has served as township trustee for four years. He was president of the committee appointed by the Business Men's Association and the Good Roads Association of Coshocton county, who organized the townships of Tuscarawas, Jackson, Keene and Franklin into a special road district for the improvement of public highways. He is a trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he holds membership. The work instituted by his grandfather and carried on by his father is continued by him, and for almost a century the family name has figured in connection with the business development and agricultural progress of the county.

George W. Need

George W. Need has reached the very venerable age of eighty-nine years and is now living with his son in White Eyes township. His life has been one of business activity, characterized by straightforward dealing and wherever he has lived he has enjoyed the confidence and good will of his fellowmen. He was born in Harrison county, Ohio, March 3, 1819. James Monroe was at that time president of the United States and had only had three predecessors. Travel by the aid of steam, either on the railroad or on the rivers, was hardly known. In fact it had gone scarcely beyond the experimental stage. All of the great Mississippi valley was largely an unsettled and unimproved wilderness and the family home in which George Need spent his boyhood days was upon the frontier. His parents, George and Sarah (Myser) Need, were both natives of Pennsylvania but had become pioneers of Harrison county, Ohio, where the father followed the carpenter's trade. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: Matilda, deceased; George W., of this review; David and Margaret, who have also passed away; Samuel, a resident of Tuscarawas county; John, who was killed in the war; Maria, the wife of John Hiner, of Iowa; and Sarah Ann, living in Tuscarawas county. The father died in 1856 and the mother, surviving him for three decades, passed away in 1886.

George W. Need was rearedon the home farm amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life. He can well remember when candles were used for lighting houses and when cooking was done over the old-time fireplace. Most of the buildings of the neighborhood were constructed of logs and ~ much of the natural timber still stood. Farm work was done with machinery very crude as compared with that of the present time and he has lived to see remarkable changes in the methods of farming. No longer does the farmer walk behind the plow in the fields and drop the seed by hand. The modern riding plow, the cultivator, the self reaper and binder and the steam thresher have replaced the primitive farm implements and revolutionized the work done in the fields. Mr. Need remained at home, assisting in the arduous task of developing the place up to the time of his marriage.

On the 8th of October, 1844, he wedded Miss Barbara Hawk, who was born in Carroll county, Ohio, in 1822 and was a daughter of Leonard and Margaret (Rydenhouse) Hawk. Following his marriage Mr. Need settled upon a rented farm, which he cultivated for three years and then when his economy and industry had brought him sufficient capital he purchased fifty acres of land in Coshocton county. On the place was a small log cabin, in which he lived for five years. He then sold his original farm and bought eighty acres in Adams township, upon which he also lived for five years. Later he purchased another eighty-acre tract and afterward one hundred and thirty acres more, residing upon that place for seven years, when he sold all of his land in Ohio and removed to Iowa. He remained in the latter state, however, for only a year, when he returned to Coshocton county and invested in eighty acres of land, on which he resided for a year. On the expiration of that period he disposed of his property and lived upon the Hawk farm for one year, after which he bought two hundred and fifty acres in Adams township, making it his home for about twelve months. On again selling out he once more went to Iowa, where he purchased two hunared and seventeen acres of land, cultivating it through the succeeding three years. He then disposed of that property and has since remained a resident of Ohio, now making his home with his only son, W. A. Need, who is married and resides upon a farm in White Eyes township.

Since the organization of the republican party Mr. Need has been one of its stalwart supporters, always voting for its men and measures yet never seeking office for himself. Both he and his wife are earnest, consistent Christian people, holding membership in the Methodist Episcopal church.

They have now traveled life's journey together for sixty-four years, sharing with each other the joys and sorrows, adversity and prosperity which come into the lives of all. Mr. Need has been a busy man and his career has been a useful one but of recent years he has enjoyed a rest which he has truly earned and richly merits. No history of this community would be complete without mention of Mr. Need, who has lived to witness such remarkable changes here. He has seen the introduction of the railroad, the telegraph and the telephone, while schools and churches have given their civilizing influence to the upbuilding of the community and material progress has been continuously advanced.

Robert Andrew Crawford

Robert Andrew Crawford, whose constantly expanding powers and spirit of dauntless enterprise have led him into the field of industrial activity, where his labors are constituting a feature in the general progress of Coshocton, as well as a source of individual profit, is well known as the secretary and treasurer of the Hunt-Crawford Company, manufacturers of corrugated paper, packing and supplies.. He was born January 25, 1872, in Mill Creek township, Coshocton county, and his early boyhood was spent on a farm. His father, Andrew Crawford, was a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, born in 1810. He came to America with his parents and other members of the family in 1820 and settled in Crawford township, Coshocton county, Ohio. Later he went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he was engaged in the tanning trade, and subsequently he operated a tannery in Crawford township, Coshocton county. Later, however, he turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits and thus continued throughout the remainder of his active business career. In 1835 he was married to Miss Margaret Irwin, and unto them were born three sons and a daughter: William Henry, John Thomas, Guy Irwin and Sarah. Having lost his first wife, Mr. Crawford wedded Mary Ann Ramsey on the 16th of July, 1867. They became parents of two sons, Oliver Ramsey and Robert Andrew. The mother was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, March 10, 1825, and died at Keene, Ohio, Janu: ary 10, 1902, having for more than nine years survived her husband who passed away at Keene August 29, 1892.

Robert A. Crawford spent his early life on the home farm near Keene and was graduated from the Keene township high school in 1891 and from the preparatory department of Wooster University in 1893. He then entered upon the collegiate classical course but was obliged to discontinue his studies in his senior year because of ill health. His first step after he left school in 1897 was to become a partner in the firm of Crawford & Whittemore, doing a general mercantile business in Keene, Ohio. He remained in that connection for two years and from 1899 until 1901 was engaged in the newspaper business, while through the succeeding two years he was a representative of the dry-goods trade in Coshocton. Thinking to find more profitable fields in manufacturing lines; and seeing opportunity for the establishment of a good business, Mr. Crawford, in 1903, assisted in the organization of the Hunt-Crawford Company, manufacturers of corrugated paper, packing and supplies. They built a plant in Coshocton, equipped it with the latest improved machinery known to the trade and have since conducted a growing and prosperous undertaking. From the beginning, Mr. Crawford has been secretary and treasurer of the company and has contributed to its successful conduct by his administrative direction and sound judgment.

Not unknown in political circles he has exerted considerable influence in republican ranks and has been active as a member of the county central and executive committees. In 1904 he was appointed by Governor Herrick, Ohio building and loan examiner, and is still filling that position. He has been a member of the Phi Gamma Delta, a Greek letter fraternity, since 1893 and in 1900 joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was formerly identified with the Presbyterian church in Keene and he transferred his membership to Coshocton on his removal to the latter city.

On the 20th of December, 1900, in Coshocton, Mr. Crawford was married to Miss Annie Isabelle Stover, a daughter of LeRoy S. and Sarah (Irvine) Stover and a granddaughter of James Irvine, who was a captain in the Mexican war and organized the first military company from Coshocton under the three months' call, going to the front again with the rank of captain, while later he became major of cavalry. One child, Robert Irvine, was born unto Mr. and Mrs. Crawford, on the 10th of December, 1901, but died November 19, 1903. Mr. Crawford is interested in all that pertains to the city's welfare and upbuilding and to its material, intellectual, social and moral progress. His influence can be counted upon to further movements for the public good and Coshocton county is proud to number him among her native sons, for he is today classed with her progressive citizens.

Seth Shaw

Seth Shaw, a member of an old and prominent county family to whom this section of the country is very largely indebted for its present high state of cultivation and development, was born in Lafayette township, November 5U, 1853, the son of Velzer and Margaret (Maple) Shaw. His paternal grandfather brought his family into this county from New Jersey in 1833, and bought a large tract of what was then wild land. Velzer Shaw, the father of our subject, was born in Orange county, New Jersey, May 4, 1824, and was therefore but nine years of age at the time. He was reared in the midst of pioneer environments and as he grew to manhood the responsibilities of the place, to the possession of which he afterward succeeded, were largely shifted'to his shoulders. He wedded Margaret Maple, who was born in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1825, and they became the parents of five children, of whom but two are now living, namely: Henry, a resident of West Lafay-

Mr. And Mrs. Seth Shav

Seth Shaw received a common-school education and began his career as an independent farmer at the early age of eighteen years. The first land which he purchased consisted of one hundred and sixteen acres in Lafayette township, which is now the property of his son Lee. Through good management, and aided by a fertile, productive soil, he derived substantial benefits from his farming operations and gradually increased his holdings of farm land and enlarged his income in proportion. Through investment and by inheritance he came into possession of city residence property for rental purposes and later embarked in mercantile pursuits. Sound judgment and keen business ability has characterized his various undertakings, so that he rates high in the mercantile agencies, and his connection with an enterprise stamps it as being of a stable, substantial nature. In addition to his home place, which consists of one hundred and twenty-one acres adjoining West Lafayette on the north, eleven acres of which lie within the corporation limits, Mr. Shaw also owns a farm of two hundred and forty acres in Oxford township and thirteen houses and lots in Coshocton, including the Union Hotel on Main street, a building containing nineteen rooms. He is now completing one of the handsomest homes in West Lafayette. It is being built of cement blocks, and covered with cement shingles, a comparatively new innovation, in the construction of which Mr. Shaw is demonstrating his faith in one of his business ventures, which consists of a plant for the manufacture of cement building blocks and cement shingles. He also owns ten thousand dollars worth of stock in the West Lafayette Manufacturing Company, which is engaged in the manufacture of enameled ware, of which he was one of the organizers. He has always maintained his home in West Lafayette, and regardless of his interests in other ventures has ever adhered to agricultural pursuits.

On the 16th of August, 1871, Mr. Shaw was united in marriage to Miss Nancy A. Hall, who was born near Parkersburg, Virginia, October 5, 1852, the daughter of John H. and Judith (Ingraham) Hall. Both of her parents were natives of Virginia, where the father was born in 1821, and the mother five years later. They left their native state and located in Coshocton county, where they spent the remainder of their lives. The mother died in 1889, while the father survived her for five years, passing away in 1894 at the age of seventy-three years. They were the parents of ten children, of whom two are dead. Those surviving are: Elihu, a resident of Kansas; Nancy A., the wife of our subject; Victoria, the wife of A. C. Dark, who lives in Oklahoma; John H., who lives in Union county, Ohio; W. B. and Arthur L., both of whom reside in Lafayette township; Sarah J., the wife of John Betham, of North Judson, Indiana; and A. M., who resides in West Lafayette.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shaw have been born nine children, six sons and three daughters, namely: Lucian, who was graduated from the Ohio State University as civil engineer in 1904, married Miss Nellie Beyers and resides in West Lafayette. Henrietta is the wife of Howard Lennon, superintendent of the county infirmary of Coshocton county. Lee O. is a resident of

Lafayette. township. J. B. is a graduate of the Ohio State University, class of 1908, where he completed the course as cyramical engineer and is now foreman in an enamel plant. He married Miss Maria Wild and now resides in Boston, Massachusetts. Isaac H. is also a graduate of the Ohio State University, where he completed the course as doctor of veterinary medicine in the class of 1907. He married Miss Carrie Burris and his home is in Sioux City, Iowa. Francis E. and Clement are at home with their parents. Antoinette and Newton are deceased.

Mr. Shaw gives his political allegiance to the democracy and has served as township assessor for two terms. Both he and his estimable wife are faithful and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which they give their loyal support.

John Quincy Adams

John Quincy Adams is a partner in the Coshocton Lumber Company, a successful commercial enterprise of the city. He was born in Keene township, this county, his parents being E. W. and Olivia (Gleason) Adams, now residents of Coshocton. His father was reared a farmer but later became interested in the lumber business as a member of the firm of Adams & Gleason at Roscoe and is now a director of the People's Banking & Trust Company and is connected with other business enterprises of Coshocton.

In the public schools of Keene and also in the Keene select school John Q. Adams pursued his education to the age of twelve years, when he removed with his parents to Coshocton and later became a high-school student, completing the course by graduation with the class of 1891. He spent two years in acquiring a more specifically literary education in the Ohio Wesleyan College at Delaware and then made his initial step in the business world at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, as an employe of a house dealing in builders' supplies, it being his intention to thoroughly acquaint himself with the business in every particular. He spent four years there and his close application and energy won him successive promotions until he finally became assistant manager of the wholesale builders' supply yard. Thus with thorough understanding of the trade he returned to Coshocton in 1901 and with his two brothers organized the Coshocton Lumber Company. This concern is the largest of the kind in the city, handling a full line of builders' supplies, including lumber. They have complete facilities for carrying on the business and their trade has enjoyed a remarkable growth. They deal exclusively in lumber and building materials, and have a large storage capacity, insuring always a large supply on hand to promptly fill all orders of whatever magnitude. The office and yards are located alongside of the Wheeling & Lake Erie tracks, where they are sure of quick shipping services. They make a specialty of large orders and are always prepared to offer an inducement to lumber buyers in general. The benefit of a large and complete stock of all classes of building material, together with' prompt delivery, gives reliable service in every detail. This business from the very commencement attracted general attention and favorable comment owing to the character and the very superior quality of the material carried. This reputation has not only been sustained but has become firmly established owing to the great volume of business done each year. This truth is fully demonstrated by the fact that today it ranks as one of the largest lumber companies in the eastern part of Ohio in any city the size of Coshocton. Their methods of doing business are such as to win the confidence of the most skeptical and the proprietors are all young men of rare business ability and the highest standing and integrity.

In his political affiliations John Q. Adams is a republican, strong in support of the party. He has attained the Knight Templar degree in Masonry, belongs to the Elks lodge, and is a member of the Beta Theta Pi. His thorough preparation for a business career proved an excellent foundation upon which to build his success, and along legitimate lines and through successive stages of development he has built up an enterprise which is now a leading commercial concern of the city.

John Gault

The Gault family has been represented in Coshocton county from the period of its earliest pioneer history, being established here in 1815 by Adam and Margaret Gault, the paternal grandparents of our subject. They came from Mercer county, Pennsylvania, and located in Pike township.

John Gault, the subject of this review, is a worthy representative of this pioneer family, born in Pike township, a son of Adam and Sarah (Miller) Gault. He was reared under the parental roof and upon starting out in life on his own account chose as his occupation farming, which he is now carrying on extensively on a tract of land of three hundred and sixteen acres situated in Pike township. His farm is well improved with good and substantial barns and outbuildings, and everything about the place is kept in a neat and thrifty appearance indicating the progressive methods of the owner. In

Mr. Gault established a home of his own by his marriage, on the 22d of June, 1867, to Miss Susan White, a daughter of Louis and Sarah (Norris) White. Their union has been blessed with three children, a daughter and two sons: Sarah Isabelle, Darl F. and Tilden A. The sons assist the father in carrying on the homestead property.

Mr. Gault's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the men and measures of the democratic party, and he has been called by his fellow townsmen to fill public offices, having served as treasurer of the township for several years, as trustee of the township and also as a member of the school board. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. Mr, Gault is an advocate of every movement that is calculated to benefit the community, either educationally, morally or socially, and as a representative of one of the oldest and most prominent pioneer families of Coshocton county he stands high in the esteem of all whom he comes in contact.

John Cuthbert Milligan

Investigation into the life record of John Cuthbert Milligan shows that he is lacking in none of those essential qualities which make the good citizen, the liberal business man and the faithful friend. He has been prominent in agricultural and commercial circles, has demonstrated his loyalty to his country on the field of battle, and in every relation of life has measured up to the full standard of honorable manhood. He is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest and the most envious cannot grudge him his success, so honorably has it been won, and so worthily used.

Mr. Milligan is a native of Coshocton county, his birth having occurred in Keene township, September 4, 1837. His paternal grandfather, a native of Ireland, was the founder of the family in the new world, settling in Vireinia. His father, Cuthbert Miligan, was a native of Hardy county, Virginia, and came to Coshocton county in 1815, casting in his lot with the pioneer settlers who were reclaiming this region and converting it from a frontier district into the homes of a contented, happy and prosperous people. He bore his full share in the work of development and for many years was closely associated with its agricultural interests, meeting with gratifying success in his undertakings. He started from Virginia with a horse and fifty dollars, and with such meager possessions began life in Ohio, but as the years passed, his untiring energy and determination overcame all obstacles and he steadily worked his way upward. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1883, he was the owner of over nine hundred acres of good farm land. At the time of the war of 1812 he enlisted, but was never called to active service. He married Dorothy Reed, also a native of Hardy county, Virgima. The Reeds were of English lineage and settled in the Old Dominion at an early epoch in its history. The fighting blood has always preyvailed in this family and when the country's safety has been imperiled members of the family have valiantly fought for the interests of this land. Anthony Reed, the grandfather of John C. Milligan, and also a native of Virginia, was a participant in the Revolutionary war, fate part in a number of hotly contested battles. His brother, Joseph Reed, served on Washington's staff, and was a prominent figure in those times. Loyal and _ patriotic, he rendered valuable aid to the father of his country in the efforts to free America from the yoke of British tyranny. The British offered him fifty thousand pounds if he would serve England and his reply was "I am not worth the purchasing; but such as I am, the king of Great Britain is not able to buy me." He was also offered the best colonial office in the gift of the king. Dorothy Reed was reared in the county of her nativity and in early womanhood gave her hand in marriage to Cuthbert Milligan, with whom she came to Ohio. They lived to see this region transformed from the frontier district into one of the most progressive counties of the commonwealth, retaining their residence in Coshocton county until called to their final rest. The death of Mrs. Milligan occurred in 1887.

There were still many evidences of pioneer life to be seen in this district during the boyhood days of John C. Milligan, who was reared on the home farm in Keene township and pursued his education in the district schools near his father's home. He continued his studies during the winter months to the age of twenty years. His father then gave him a part of the old homestead and he successfully cultivated this, carrying on general agricultural pursuits until 1890. In the meantime he added largely to his original tract and' became known as one of the leading farmers of the community, for his fields were always highly cultivated and on his farm were found the most modern improvements. In 1890 Mr. Milligan moved to Coshocton and established an implement business, which soon became a leading concern of the kind in the county. He bought for cash, sought only to secure a fair profit on his investment and at all times employed the most straightforward business methods. No word was ever uttered against his business integrity and the farming community had the most absolute confidence in him. Thus his sales steadily increased until in 1907, when he sold out to the Gray Hardware Company. He then established his present business with a view of assisting his son in making a start in the commercial world, and the latter is now at the head of a prosperous and constantly growing enterprise.

The only interruption to Mr. Milligan's business career came in his enlistment as a soldier of the Civil war. Hardly had the smoke from Fort Sumter's guns cleared away when, on the 17th of April, in response to the first call, he enlisted as a member of Company D, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the battles of Phillippi and Carricks Ford, and on the expiration of his first term was honorably discharged in August, 1861. Three years later he reenlisted in the Nineteenth Ohio and went with Sherman on his march to the sea and throughout the Atlanta campaign. He participated in many other important battles, which contributed to the victory that finally crowned the Union arms, and on the 10th of June, 1865, was honorably discharged. Always loyal to his country and displaying a most patriotic spirit, he offered to enlist in the Spanish-American war. He has been equally faithful to the welfare of the community in his service in local offices. He has filled a number of township positions and for twenty-one years was justice of the peace in Keene township, where his decisions, always fair and impartial, "won him golden opinions from all sorts of people." He was for twenty-one years a member of the board of education in Keene and the public-school system has ever found in him a stalwart champion. He has voted with the republican party since its

On the 7th of October, 1862, Mr. Milligan was married to Miss Elizabeth McCollough, a native of Jackson township, this county, who died November 29, 1879. Their children were as follows: Alice K., who was born in 1863, and is active as her father's housekeeper; Flora Elizabeth, who was born June 10, 1865, and is the wife of Charles Hoagland, a resident of Keene; Mary Laura, who was born in 1867, and is now engaged in business in Seattle, Washington; Charles Alexander, who was born in 1869, and is now in the.plumbing business; James Edward, who was born in 1871, and is living in Blissfield, Ohio; Sarah Jane, who was born in 1873, and died in 1905; William Cuthbert, who was born in 1876, and is now in Columbus, Ohio; and John Howard, who was born in 1879, and died in infancy. The loss of Mr. Milligan's wife has always been a source of great sorrow to him, as he was devotedly attached to her. Theirs was largely an ideal marriage relation and their mutual love and confidence increased as the years passed by.

Mr. Milligan has been a consistent member of the Methodist Protestant church for fifty-two years; has taken an active interest in its work and has filled all of its official positions. He is likewise a valued member of the Grand Army of the Republic and his life has been an open book. He attributes his success to the fact that he has always endeavored to follow the Golden Rule. He has ever been a worker, never fearing that laborious attention to detail that is so necessary in the acquirement of success, but while he has made steady progress along the lines of affluence he has never been neglectful of his duty towards his fellowmen nor to his country and he enjoys to the fullest extent the confidence and good will of all with whom he has come in contact.

Stephen F. Balo

Honorable in business, loyal in citizenship, charitable in thought, kindly in action, true to every trust reposed in him, the life of Stephen F. Balo was the highest type of Christian manhood and thus his death, which occurred April 9, 1907, was the occasion of deep sorrow to his many friends. He was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, May 7, 1835, a son of Francis and Elizabeth (Strom) Balo, who in 1853 emigrated to the United States. Landing in New York the family made their way to Cleveland, whence they journeyed by canal boat to Adams Mills and this has been the home of the Balos to the present time. When the family arrived here they were in very limited financial circumstances and were strangers in a new country, without friends and unable to speak the English language. They, therefore, endured many hardships and privations in establishing a home. The father and two of the sons, however, secured employment in the construction of the Pennsylvania Railroad, for which they -never received their pay. Soon after arriving here sickness overtook them, all of the family, with the exception of the two youngest members, having the ague, which was prevalent at that time. One of the children died from the sickness and owing to this unfortunate circumstance the little money which they had saved was soon exhausted and they were reduced to abject want and were obliged to call upon the county for assistance, which soon supplied them with the necessities of life.

After regaining his health, Stephen Balo secured employment with a farmer in the neighborhood, with whom he worked until the time of the Civil war when, feeling that his first duty was to his country, he enlisted in August, 1862, as a member of Company H, Ninety-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served under Sherman and Hooker and was mustered out June, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio.

Following his return from the war he engaged in farming with his father and later farmed on his own account, owning a well improved tract in Virginia township, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Deprived in his youth of many of the necessities and advantages of life, as the years passed and he prospered in his undertakings, he availed himself of all the comforts and conveniences of life and occupied one of the finest and most modern country homes in this section of the state.

Soon after Tee from the war, Mr. Balo established a home of his own by his marriage, November 9, 1865, to Miss Martha J. Bird, a daughter of Joshua and Martha (Pepper) Pee Their union was blessed with six children: Laura, the wife of Abe Ridgeway; Elizabeth E., the wife of Hamilton S. Scott; Jerre F.; James H.; Mary A.; Rhoda B., now the wife of George F. Bainter, a practicing physician of Strasburg, Ohio.

Mr. Balo gave his political support to the men and measures of the democratic party, while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church at Adams Mills. Mr. Balo was a remarkable man in many respects. In him were embodied the virtues of the early pioneers - the steadfast purpose, rugged integrity and religious zeal - virtues to which the splendid civilization of America is indebted for its wonderful development and its glorious progress.

William Graham

William Graham, who is extensively engaged in agricultural and horticultural pursuits and stock-raising, is numbered among the enterprising citizens of Coshocton county. He was born in this county, October 6, 1862, a son of James and Matilda (Bryan) Graham. The paternal grandparents emigrated from England to America in 1812 and was en route at the time war was declared between Great Britain and the United States. The vessel on which they were passengers was seized by a British man-of-war and taken to a port in Nova Scotia where the passengers were detained as prison- ers. The grandfather was a stonemason by trade and worked on government buildings during the time he was held as a prisoner and it was at this time that James, the father of our subject, was born, the year of his birth being 1814. After peace was declared between the United States and Great Britain the family was released and came direct to Pike township, Coshocton county, the year of their arrival here being 1816. Here the grandfather entered three hundred acres of land from the government and soon began clearing the forests and establishing a home for himself and family. In the maternal line our subject comes of Irish descent, his maternal grandfather, James Bryan, and his brother Silas being natives of Muskingum county, to which place their parents had removed upon their emigration from the Emerald isle. James spent his remaining days in Muskingum county, but Silas removed to Illinois. He was the grandfather of. William Jennings Bryan, the noted statesman and presidential candidate in 1908, so that the latter is a distant relative of Mr. Graham of this review.

William Graham was reared on his father's farm assisting in the work of cultivating the fields during the spring and summer months, while in the winter seasons he pursued his studies in the district schools. He has always followed the occupation to which he was reared and now in addition raises fruit on an extensive scale and is also engaged in stock-raising. He now operates a farm of one hundred and six acres in Washington township and ninety acres in Muskingum county, his tracts of land being among the most valuable and best improved in this section of the state.

Mr. Graham was married in April, 1886, to Miss Margaret Lemert, a daughter of John C. and Mary (Mull) Lemert. Two sons and one daughter have blessed this union: Frank C., John L. and Mary E. Mr. Graham gives his political support to the men and measures of democracy and is a public-spirited citizen, always ready and willing to contribute his share in every public movement calculated to better the conditions of the community in which he lives. He has served as a member of the county infirmary board for three years and is also a member of the district schoo] board. He is also a notary public, the only man in the township officiating in that capacity. He is a Knight of Pythias and in religious faith is a Presbyterian. He and his family occupy an attractive home, wherein reigns culture and refinement, and its hospitality is enjoved by a host of warm friends.

Henry Harrison Hagelbarger

Henry Harrison Hagelbarger is a prosperous farmer of Tiverton township, owning one hundred and sixty-seven acres of valuable land here. He is a native son of the township, born June 24, 1861, of the marriage of Jacob and Eliphal (Humphrey) Hagelbarger. The father was born in the state of New York, March 21, 1835, and came with his parents to Coshocton county, the family home being established in Jefferson township.

H. H. Hagelbarger And Family

He grew up on the home farm, subsequent to which time he removed to Tiverton township and with the exception of two years spent in Cerro Gordo county, Iowa, has spent his time in Coshocton county. He still survives and makes his home a few miles south of Tiverton. The mother was born in the Buckeye state and was married in Coshocton county. She became the mother of three children: Catherine Elizabeth, now the wife of I. L. Ghin, of Geneva, Nebraska; Henry H., of this review; and one who died in infancy. The mother also passed to her final reward about this time and both he buried in Cerro Gordo county, Iowa.

Henry H. Hagelbarger was but two years old at the time of his mother's demise. He was then carefully reared by the father and was educated in the district schools of Tiverton township. He remained at home until he had reached the age of twenty-two years and has made farming his life work. He now owns one hundred and sixty-seven acres of land in Tiverton township, this constituting one of the best tracts in this section of Coshocton county. Six years ago he built a fine modern residence, supplied with every convenience and accessory for the comfort of the inmates, has good barns and outbuildings, and everything about his place is kept in a neat and thrifty condition. He carries on general farming and is interested in the Horse Breeders' Association, owning a third interest in the French draft horse, Tongours. He is also a stockholder in the Bell Telephone Company.