Coshocton County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1909 (part 1 of 19)

Biographical sketches

There is perhaps in Coshocton no better representative of the spirit of the age than Charles F. Gosser, a young man of broad outlook, of keen discernment and of sound judgment, who realizes that one must be thorough and efficient and at the same time must possess a progressiveness that enables him to keep pace with the onward march that is manifest in the business world. While meeting with well earned and well merited success, he has at the same time contributed in substantial measure to Coshocton's commercial and industrial development and not the least of his important acts in this connection was in securing the establishment in the city of what is now one of its most important productive concerns - the Pope-Gosser China Company. A native of Coshocton, he is a son of George and Anna Gosser, the former born in Alsace-Loraine, France, and the latter in Carroll county, Ohio, in 1833. The father was eight years of age when in 1840 he came to the United States with his parents and for many years he remained a resident of Coshocton. In the public schools of this city Charles I', Gosser pursued his studies until he completed the course by graduation in the class of 1885, being at that time seventeen years of age. Immediately afterward he made his initial step in the business world as an apprentice to the watchmaker's trade under William Burns, the jeweler. He could never be content with mediocrity in any line nor with superficial knowledge of any business to which he directed his attention. This quality prompted him to gain a thorough knowledge of watchmaking and to this end he attended the Horological Institute, where he completed a course in practical and theoretical horology in 1892. The following year he purchased a half interest in the jewelry business, in which he still continues, being now junior partner of the well known firm of Burns & Gosser. They carry a large and well selected line of watches, diamonds and jewelry and in this department. receive a liberal support from the public. They also have an optical goods department and their increasing trade in this connection again aroused Mr.

Gosser's disposition to be thorough in his knowledge of the subject. He therefore went to New York, where he pursued a complete course in two optical schools, receiving diplomas from both. He also took a course in metal engraving under the most proficient instructors in the country. ;

The great majority of men feel that it is enough to attain a fair measure of success in one line but Mr. Gosser, although yet hardly in the prime of life, has manifested his ability and demonstrated his power in several fields of business activity. As a member of the advisory board of the Merchants' Electric Light and Power Company he was prominently identified with the establishment and construction of Coshocton's system of hot water heating from a central station - an enterprise which was regarded by the public as a mozt hazardous one but which time has proven to be one of the city's greatest and most appreciated public utilities, while to its owners it yields a fair remuneration. Mr. Gosser was actively associated with the installation and management of the municipal electric light plant and later added the central heat plant. However, he retired from the electric light company in 1903 to promote and establish the Pope-Gosser China Company, of which he is now the secretary and treasurer and one of the principal stockholders, devoting his attention largely to the management of its interests. Since the organization of the board of trade of Coshocton he has been most active in its work, serving from the beginning as director and vice president, while later he was honored with the presidency. In all of his official capacities he has labored indefatigably to secure new industries for Coshoeton and it was through his efforts that the present china manufacturing company was formed. It has only been since a comparatively recent date that the ceramic art has been developed in the United States. prior to which time the finest articles of this character came from France. Germany, England and other old world countries. In more recent years, however, the skill of American artisans and artists has brought the product of their own kilns to such a high degree that it is now no longer necessary to go abroad for wares of the finest texture and of the most artistic mold and decoration. Evidence of this is seen in the output of the Pope-Gosser China Company, consisting of plain and decorated semiporcelain dinner and toilet ware. Already the new company has won for itself a prominent place in industrial ircles and the business has become one of the most important industries of the city. The plant was constructed for its present use. The building is of brick, three hundred and fifteen by ninety feet, and three stories and basement in height in the main portion and two stories in the other part. The plant is thoroughly equipped with the most improved modern machinery for manufacture of this character. The officers of the company are: I. Bentley Pope, president; William Burns, vice president; and ©. F. Gosser, secretary and treasurer. This constitutes a strong combination, for the president is a man of world-wide reputation as a practical potter and decorator, while Mr. Gosser is recognized as a man of marked executive ability and enterprise in business circles.

Politically he is a democrat but without desire for office. He was reared in the faith of the Presbyterian church and his fraternal relations are with the Masons, the Knights of Pythias and the Elks. Coshocton is proud to number him among her native sons, for he has made for himself a prominent place in business circles as one whose force of character and keen insight into complex situations enables him to bring to successful completion whatever he undertakes.

A. Rippl is an enterprising and progressive citizen, well known in business circles in West Lafayette and Coshocton county as a manufacturer of wood, iron and steel novelties for advertising purposes, and although he has thus been identified only since the summer of 1906 he has already built up an extensive patronage and gained a wide reputation.

Mr. Rippl is a native son of the county, born in Bakersville, October 18, 1867, a son of Joseph and Maria (Busler) Rippl, both natives of Germany, the latter of Wurtemberg. The father emigrated to the United States in 1847, at which time he located in Coshocton, where he worked at the wagonmaker's trade, having learned the same in his native land. After spending three years in that city he took up his abode in Bakersville, continuing to work at his trade until the time of his death. He was killed in 1893 by a tree falling on him and had reached the advanced age of seventyfive years. The mother passed to her final rest two years previous or in 1891, when she was sixty-five years of age. Their family numbered five children, as follows: George, a resident of Black Band, Ohio; F. J., of Coshoeton; Mrs. Elizabeth Krantz, who makes her home in Canal Dover, this state; A., of this review; and Clara, of Alliance, Ohio.

Mr. Rippl acquired his education in the common schools and spent the period of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, during which time he worked in his father's establishment. In 1884 he took up the study of telegraphy and when he became proficient in that lne secured the position of operator with the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railroad Company at Massillon, and later at Canal Dover. After a period of eight vears, however, 'he abandoned that business and returned to Bakersville and entered his father's wagon shop. He soon installed machinery and in 1896 began the manufacture of wooden novelties. His business grew and Mr. Rippl eventually decided to locate in a larger place, where he might enjoy better railroad facilities. The West Lafayette Manufacturing Company hearing of Mr. Rippl's intentions purchased his plant and made him manager of the concern. However, owing to dissatisfaction in regard to the agreement made, Mr. Rippl resigned. He then entered the employ of the H. D. Beach Company but after a brief period thus spent he returned to his old home in West Lafayette and in the summer of 1906 built his present factory at a cost of about four thousand dollars. He then began the manufacture of wood, iron and steel novelties for advertising purposes and has now built up a large trade, having cleared his plant of all indebtedness. He has based his busia ness principles and actions upon strict adherence to the rules which govern economy, industry and unswerving integrity, and has reached a prominent position in the business circles of Coshocton county.

Mr. Rippl was married on the 19th of November, 1893, the lady of his choice being Miss Jennie Taylor, who was born in Tuscarawas county, this state, June 2, 1869, the only child of Richard and Rebecea (Phillips) Taylor; who are now living retired in Bakersville, the father having attained the age of sixty-five years, while his wife is one year his junior. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Rippl has been blessed with six children: Mary, Joseph, Waive, George, Ruth and Harold.

Mr. Rippl is a democrat in his political views, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the German Reformed church, and his wife holds membership in the United Brethren church. His fraternal relations are with the Masonic lodge, No. 175, at New Comerstown, the Knights of Pythias at Bakersville; and Bakersville Camp, No. 5216, M. W. A. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor, and today he stands among the successful business men of West Lafayette and Coshocton county.

S. R. McCormick, a prosperous and well known agriculturist of Keene township, was born on the farm where he now resides on the 28th of February, 1865, his parents being William and Mary Ann (Lockard) McCormick. The father's birth occurred in Ireland in 1830 and in 1842 he accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, making his home here until the time of his demise in 1884. The mother of our subject is a native of Coshocton county and is still living, having now attained the age of seventy years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. William McCormick were born five children, namely: Melville, a resident of Keene township; 8. R., of this review; M. H., who is living in Coshocton; and Robert and Lloyd, who have passed away.

S. R. McCormick supplemented his preliminary education by a highschool course and when seventeen years of age entered a store in the capacity of clerk, being thus engaged for two years. He then erected an elevator at Fresno and was successfully engaged in its operation for three years, on the expiration of which period he sold out and bought the farm of two hundred and forty acres in Keene township on which he has since resided. He has placed many substantial improvements on the property and in addition to the work of general farming makes a specialty of handling registered stock, principally delaine sheep. Alert, energetic and enterprising, he has met with prosperity in his undertakings and is widely recognized as one of the representative and progressive agriculturists of the community.

parents being Nathan and Elizabeth (Powell) Daugherty. The father, born in Jefferson county, Ohio, February 28, 1830, passed away on the Ist of May, 1908, while the mother, whose birth occurred in Adams township, January 7, 1832, was called to her final rest in 1864. Mr. and Mrs. Daugherty had three children, two of whom died in infancy. Unto our subject and his wife were born six children: Clyde E., at home; Nellie, who is a graduate of the Keene high school and is still at home; French, a resident of Bureau county, Illinois; Stacy; Walter, deceased; and Rollin.

Mr. McCormick gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party, has served on the board of education for two terms and has also held the office of assessor. He is identified with the Grange, No. 1602, at Keene, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the United Presbyterian church, with which his wife is also affiliated. Both Mr. and Mrs. McCormick are widely and favorably known throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, the circle of their friends being almost coextensive with the circle of their acquintances.

Mrs. Olive (Maxwell) Wolfe is a representative of the farming interests of Coshocton county and one of its native daughters, for her birth occurred within its borders, September 23, 1857. Her parents were William and Mary (Higby) Maxwell. Her father was born in Heath, Massachusetts, while her mother's birth occurred in this county. William Maxwell arrived in Coshocton county when about seven or eight years of age and was here reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life. For many years he continued to carry on farming in this locality, remaining an active factor in the work of the fields until his life's labors were ended in death in March, 1893. His widow survived him for about twelve years and passed away in August, 1905. They were the parents of seven children, namely: Mrs. Maxwell; Montgomery, who is living in this county; Lucy, the wife of Everett Boyd, also of this county; George, who likewise makes his home in Coshocton * county; and three who are deceased.

In her father's home Olive Maxwell was reared and was trained to the duties of the household, while in the public schools she acquired her education. In 1879 she became the wife of George L. Wolfe, who was born in Oxford township in 1836. His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Leighninger) Wolfe. The father was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1802 and was brought to Ohio by his parents in 1806 when the state sheltered many more red men than white inhabitants. Its forests were uncut, its land uncultivated, and it seemed that the work of civilization had scarcely been begun in its borders. Here Jacob Wolfe was reared and aided in the arduous task of developing a new farm. Having attained his majority he married Miss Elizabeth Leighninger, a representative of one of the old families of Oxford township and they became the parents of four children: Margaret,

Sarah, Hiram and George. The mother died in August, 1879. The father, Jacob Wolfe, was a member of the Baptist church and an earnest consistent Christian gentleman whose honesty was never questioned. He was moreover a most industrious citizen and in his old age worked as though he was still in the prime of life. He was one of the oldest residents in Oxford township at the time of his demise.

His son, George Wolfe, was reared in this county, attended the public schools and early became familiar with the task of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. Throughout his entire life he carried on farming and he met with good success in'that undertaking. In early manhood he married Anna Foster, a native of England, and unto them were born three children: Elmer J., Aurelia D., and one who died in infancy. The death of Mrs. Anna Wolfe occurred in 1877 and her remains were laid to rest in White Eyes cemetery. Later Mr. Wolfe wedded Olive Maxwell, as previously stated, and unto them was born a son, Irvin M., who is yet at home. He is a graduate of the West Lafayette College, where he pursued a scientific course and is now operating the home farm. Everything about the place is indicative of his careful supervision and practical methods. The father, George Wolfe, was a most energetic agriculturist and owned a beautiful farm in the midst of which he erected a fine residence. He also placed thereon the various barns and outbuildings necessary for the shelter of grain and stock and he kept good grades of cattle and horses, while in the work of the fields he won success by his practical methods. His political allegiance was given to the democracy, but he preferred to enjoy the pleasures of home rather than to participate actively in the work of office holding. He died July 17, 1908, leaving a widow and one son to mourn his loss, his remains being interred in Wagner cemetery. Mrs. Wolfe and her son still reside upon the home farm, which is a valuable and attractive property and constitutes one of the pleasing features of the landscape.

S. Hilton Buker, M.D.

Having carefully prepared for the practice of medicine and surgery, Dr. S. Hilton Buker located in Spring Mountain in 1887 and since that time has continually demonstrated his ability and skill as is manifest by the large and lucrative practice which he today enjoys. He was born near Otsego, Muskingum county, Ohio, February 11, 1865, a son of Decatur and Lucy (Barnard) Buker. 'The family history dates back to 1492, in which year representatives of the name removed from Turkey to England, whence they emigrated to America about 1700. The paternal grandfather, Israel Hilton Buker, was born in Maine, in 1756, and enlisted for service in the Revolutionary war at the age of eighteen years and was associated with Lafayette, by whom he was presented with a sword. He was discharged in 1783 as sergeant of the Third Massachusetts Regiment, his discharge papers being signed by George Washington and now on file in the national capital. The grandfather came to Coshocton county about 1810 and in the early part of the nineteenth century engaged in teaching, which profes ssion he followed for about forty years. He died about 1850 and is buried in the cemetery at Otsego.

The father, Decatur Buker, was born near Franklin Station, Coshocton county, September 11, 1825, and spent his early boyhood and youth in Franklin township. He was a self-educated man and for seventeen vears was engaged in teaching, most of this time being spent in Muskingum county. About 1845 he took up farming and stock-raising. The last thirty years of his life, however, were devoted to the settling of estates and other notarial business. He was a gifted orator and was in great demand to render campaign speeches. In politics he was a stanch republican and held various township and county offices. His religious faith was that of the Methodist Protestant church. He was a man among men and was justly accorded a place among the. prominent and representative citizens of Coshocton and Muskingum counties, for he belonged to that class of men whose enterprising spirit is used not alone for their own individual good but for the promotion of public prosperity. He was revered and honored wherever known and his death, which was occasioned by a runaway on August 3, 1899, was deeply regretted by many friends and acquaintances as well as by the members of his own household. The wife and mother was born near Otsego and her people were among the pioneer settlers of this section of the state. Her death occurred in 1904 and her remains were buried by the side of her husband in the cemetery at Otsego. Their family numbered six children, namely: Mary, who became the wife of J. D. Phillips and died at the age of twenty-four years; Charles W., who wedded Mrs. J. Sprague, of Warsaw, and is on the homestead; Sarah, the wife of J. D. Phillips, of Beaver City, Nebraska; Albert L., who is a traveling salesman of Ogden, Utah; S. Hilton, of this review; and Rose, who makes her home in Osacen

Dr. Buker of this review acquired his education in the district and graded schools of Otsego and pursued a collegiate course in Adrian, Michigan, graduating from that institution in 1884. He was then engaged in teaching for one year in Muskingum county. At the same time he took up the study of medicine under Dr. Walker, of Plainfield, after which he entered the Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati, graduating in 1887. In April of that year, just after he had celebrated the twenty-second anniversary of his birth, he located for practice in Spring Mountain, succeeding to the practice of Dr. Winslow. His practice is already large and is constantly increasing, for he keeps in touch with the most modern and advanced ideas of the medical profession and is now the beloved family physician in many a household. He was formerly identified with realty interests but on account of the demands of his profession had to abandon that field of labor. He still, however, owns considerable real estate in Jefferson township, Coshocton and Spring Mountain.

It was in 1888 that Dr. Buker was united in marriage to Miss Linnie E. Dawson, who was born in Mount Vernon. During the time that the Doctor was pursuing his studies in Cincinnati, Mrs. Buker was attending an art school in that city and it was there that they became acquainted. Their marriage has been blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters, Emerzon Dawson, Wallace Hilton, Helen Lucy and Mary Evelyn. The last named died October 16, 1908. The eldest son has been given excellent educational advantages. He has pursued a high-school course in both Coshocton and Warsaw and has spent one year in the college at Hiram, Ohio, and after completing his course in the latter institution he expects to take up the study of medicine.

The Doctor gives his political support to the republican party. He has taken a deep and active interest in many public enterprises. He was one of the organizers and is the heaviest stockholder in the Coshocton Telephone Company, was one of the organizers of the Warsaw Bank and was a member of its first directorate and is also financially interested in the Otsego Oil & Gas Company. At the age of twenty-one years he became identified with the Masonic fraternity, joining the blue lodge at Plainfield. After locating in Spring Mountain he was elected master of the lodge here. He belonged to the chapter in Coshocton and has attained the Scottish Rite degree in the lodge at Columbus. He was one of the organizers and a charter member of the Knights Templars in Coshocton. He likewise belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Killbuck and to the Maccabees tent at Walhonding, while in the line of his profession he organized and became a member of the American Society of Physicians & Surgeons. He was formerly an active participant in political circles, acting as township treasurer for fourteen years and he also served for several years as committeeman of the township and member of the school board. He was reared in the faith of the Methodist Protestant church but on accotfnt of his wife's relations with the Disciples church, he has since become identified with that denomination and is now serving as deacon and treasurer of the church and he also rendered valuable assistance in the erection of the new house of worship at a cost of four thousand dollars. The address and declaration of principles of the Disciples church were written in the home of Mrs. Buker's grandmother, Mary Dawson, and her father was one of the first ministers of that denomination. The Doctor is a man of charming personality, well liked in both professional and social circles, and he and his estimable wife are held in high regard by their numerous friends and acquaintances.

Arthur Smith Moore

Arthur Smith Moore, vice president of the Fountain Dry Goods Company, belongs to that class of men who seem to regard difficulties and obstacles as an impetus for renewed effort, for he allows nothing to brook his path if it can be overcome by persistence and determination. Moreover he possesses the modern spirit of enterprise as manifest in commercial circles at the present time. Mr. Moore is a native of Roscoe, his birth having occurred there July 23, 1879. He was reared in the home of his father, James W. Moore, in

Coshocton, and pursuing a public-school education left the high school to enter the Ohio Wesleyan College. He was also for a time a student in the Oberlin (Ohio) College, but ceased his efforts in the educational field in his junior year in order to enter business in Coshocton. He has been identified with the mercantile pursuits of the city sinec 1904. He had, however, worked in the business from his boyhood days, during the periods of vacation and at other times, and his training was a thorough and practical one. In 1904 he was chosen vice president of the Fountain Dry Goods Company and has since remained as the second officer, taking an active part in the executive management and control.

Mr. Moore is a valued member of Coshocton Lodge, No. 376, B. P. O. E., and of the Methodist Episcopal church. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise he has voted with the republican party. He is an alert, energetic young man, who keeps in touch with the city's interest along lines of material, social and moral advancement, and at the same 'time in his business career he is making that steady progress which results from close application and the best utilization of opportunities.

Alonzo Mills Henderson, M.D.

The practice of medicine and surgery in accordance with modern methods and advanced ideas finds a worthy exponent in Dr. Henderson, of Roscoe. He was born in Carrollton, Carroll county, Ohio, March 4, 1837, his parents being William H. and Mary (Storey) Henderson, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of New Derry, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. The father came to the United States in his boyhood days with his parents, who settled near Millersburg, in Holmes county, Ohio, and in early manhood learned the stonemason's trade, which he followed throughout his active life. He removed from Carroll county to Tiverton township, Coshocton county, and subsequently to New Castle township, where his death occurred. John Nelson Henderson, a brother of our subject, served in the Civil war as one of the boys in blue of the Eightieth Ohio Regiment and died in the battle at Corinth, Mississippi.

Private schools afforded Dr. Henderson his educational privileges. When thirteen years of age he was permanently crippled through an attack of typhoid fever. When about sixteen or seventeen years of age he began clerking in a general store in Walhonding, and in July, 1864, came to Coshocton, where he secured a position in a store. His leisure hours were devoted to the reading of medicine under the direction of Dr. J. B. Inghram, of Coshocton, and Dr. M. Johnston, of Roscoe, and in 1867 he entered Starling Medical College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1869.

Dr. Henderson located for practice in Wills Creek in this county and there remained for nineteen years, at the end of which time he took up his abode in Roscoe, arriving here January 1, 1887. With the professional inter-

Dr. Henderson has given his political support to the republican party since its organization, and at the present time is serving as township treasurer and also as pension examiner, while for sixteen years he was a member of the school board, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. At the present writing in 1908, he is the candidate of his party for county coroner.

On the 38d of July, 1867, Dr. Henderson was married to Miss Henrietta Lynch, of' Coshocton, and unto them were born three children, of whom two are living: Hattie A., the wife of Archie Clark, who is engaged in the livery business in Coshocton; and Nellie, at home. Dr. Henderson and his family attend the Methodist Episcopal church, and for nineteen years he was a member of the official board. His progressive citizenship, his political activity, his professional ability and his social qualities have gained him a foremost place in public regard, and he now has a very wide and favorable acquaintance.

J. T. Orr, a successful agriculturist residing in Bedford township, is a native of this township, his birth having occurred on the 30th of September, 1860. His parents, William and Elizabeth (Treadway) Orr, were also natives of Coshocton county. The grandfather, Alexander Orr, at an early day took up his abode on the farm on which our subject now resides, there making his home until the time of his demise. William Orr spent his entire life in this county and after attaining man's estate took up blacksmithing and farming. At one time he conducted a shop at Warsaw but in later years resided on his farm, and met with a highly gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in all his undertakings. He started out in life emptyhanded and through his unaided efforts won the competence that enables him to give each of his children a good farm or its equivalent in cash. <A republican in his political views, he held a number of township offices and was recognized throughout the community as a public-spirited, upright and honorable citizen. He died in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church and his remains were interred at Bedford, while his wife also passed away in this county. Their family numbered eight children, as follows: Two who died in infancy; Elizabeth, who is also deceased; Olive, the wife of John G. Johnson, an agriculturist of Bedford township; Frank, a merchant of Crawford county, Kansas; J. T., of this review; W. E., who follows farming on the old home place in Bedford township; and J. J., an agriculturist of Jackson township, Coshocton county.

J. T. Orr was educated in the district schools of his native township and remained on the home farm until twenty-four years of age, assisting his father in the work of the fields. His present place comprises one hundred and sixty acres of valuable and well improved land and in connection with the work of general farming he also breeds draft horses, both branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. He has erected a commodious and substantial residence and all necessary outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and is recognized throughout the community as a progressive and enterprising agriculturist. He is also the owner of a coal mine which is proving a good source of revenue.

In 1886 Mr. Orr was united in marriage to Miss Pauline McCurdy, of Coshocton county, who has two brothers practicing medicine in Coshocton Unto this union has been born one child, Nellic, who attended school at Wooster and Oberlin and is now a music teacher.

Mr. Orr gives stalwart allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has served as trustee for six years and as a member of the school board for fifteen vears, the cause of education ever finding in him a staich champion. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church, with which his wife and daughter are also identified. Having resided in this county throughout his entire life, or for almost half a century, Mr. Orr is widely and favorably known here and moreover has gained the regard and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact by reason of his genuine personal worth and unfaltering integrity.

John Ed. Aronhalt

In the front rank of the columns which have advanced the civilization of Coshocton county the Aronhalt family has led the way to the substantial Gevelopment, progress and upbuilding of the section in which they have so long made their home, and John E. Aronhalt is a worthy representative of the name. He was born on a farm in Lafayette township, January 2, 1854, a son of William S. and Rebecca (Roadruck) Aronhalt, both of German descent and numbered among the very earliest settlers of this part of the Buckeye state.

John Ed. Aronhalt is one of a family of eight children, five sons and three daughters, he being the third in order of birth. He was reared to farm life and acquired his education in the district schools. After reaching years of maturity, he engaged in farming on his own account, first in Virginia township, while later he spent one year in Jackson township, prior to his removal to Lafayette township. He eventually took up his abode in Coshocton in what is known as the Aronhalt and Trovinger addition to that city, and here he has become a prominent factor in the life and work of this enterprising little city. He installed and operated for two years the first electric motor mining machine for the Morgan Run Coal Company, and for four years was weighmaster for the Wade Coal Company. During the five succeeding years he was traveling salesman for the Singer Sewing Machine Company and has to his credit the sale of ninety-six machines in eleven months. Accompanied by Mrs. Aronhalt and their youngest daughter he went to Olympia, Washington, in October, 1902, and was engaged in the construction of electric railways in that city and for a few months was prospecting in California, but in the fall of 1903 he returned to Coshocton county and engaged in farming on what is known as the Denman farm near the city of Coshocton, while one year later he took up his abode in his present home on Cambridge road, and is the owner of some fine horses. Among his stock may be seen the well known animal, Maizie V., with a track record of 2:20.

Mr. Aronhalt was married in 1877 to Miss Minnie E. Miller, a daughter of Isaac W. and Sarah (Morgan) Miller, of Lafayette township, by whom he has two daughters: "Mertie, the wife of George Conley; and Vernal, at home.

Mr. Aronhalt served as assessor of Tuscarawas township for nine years and on the Ist of August, 1907, was appointed United States gauger. He is a republican in his political views and takes an active interest in all public matters, his aid and cooperation being sought in every movement calculated to better community interests. His fraternal relations are with Fidelity Lodge, No. 135, K. P., while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. Widely known, his life history cannot fail to prove of interest to his many friends and it is therefore with pleasure that we present this record of his career to our readers.

James L. Rogers

The list of the leading citizens of West Lafayette contains the name of James L. Rogers, one of the representative and honored citizens of Coshocton county. His record as a soldier and as a business man has been so honorable that he has gained the confidence and good will of all with whom he has been brought in contact, and now in the evening of his days he can look back over a life well spent, for he is now living retired, deriving a good financial income from three hundred and fifteen acres of rich and valuable land in Lafayette township.

Mr. Rogers. was bern in Harrison county, Ohio, February 19, 1840, a son of Joseph and Mary (Burkhead) Rogers, both of whom were natives of Maryland, the former born in 1806 of English descent, and the latter born August 28, 1807, of Scotch descent. The parents took up their abode in Harrison county at an early day, removing to this state from Maryland in a covered wagon. The father was a miller by trade but after coming to Ohio he engaged in farming and began life here in true pioneer style, living for some years in a log cabin. Both are now deceased, the father passing away in 1882, when he had reached the age of seventy-six years, while the mother died in 1864, at the comparatively early age of fifty-seven. Their family numbered ten children: Actie, deceased; Maria Jane, the wife of Robert Bell, of West Lafayette; Wesley M., who was wounded during his service in the Civil war and died in 1893; Elizabeth, who has departed this life; Parmelia, the wife of William Finney, of Ohio; James L., of this review: Nancy, who wedded George Sproul and died in 1906; John B., of Uhrichsville, this state ;

Sun Unv

James L. Rogers, the subject of this review, was reared on the home farm and remained under the parental roof until he attained his majority, when he offered his services to the government during the Civil war, becoming a member of Company F, Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was organized in Harrison county in August, 1862. He served for two years and ten months, and took part in many of the hotly contested engagements of the war, these including the battles of Perryville, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Peach Tree Creek, Rome, Georgia, Bentonville, North Carolina and many others of minor importance He was also with Sherman on his celebrated march to the sea and after traveling over five thousand miles he participated in the grand review at Washington. He was commissioned second lieutenant and mustered out at Cleveland, Ohio, having made a most honorable and creditable military record.

Following his return from the war James L. Rogers resumed agricultural pursuits in Coshocton county, operating rented land for a few years. He, with his wife, then purchased the farm which he still owns, this comprising three hundred and fifteen acres of rich and improved land situated in Lafayette township. For many years he followed farming and made a specialty of raising and feeding stock but his energy, economy and careful management in former years now enable him to put aside business cares and he is living retired in a pleasant and modern home in West Lafayette, deriving a good income from his landed possessions.

Mr. Rogers was married April 15, 1867, the lady of his choice being Miss Harriet Burt, who was born in Lafayette township, June 14, 1845, a daughter of James M. and Mary A. (Bradner) Burt, both of whom were natives of Orange county, New York, and made the overland journey from that state to Coshocton county in 1836. Here the father entered a tract of land from the government and engaged in farming. He also took a prominent and active part in political circles, serving for two terms in the legislature and for a similar period in the senate. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Burt numbered twelve children, seven daughters and five sons, but the latter are now deceased. Both the father and mother have also passed to their final reward, the former passing away March 7, 1893, and the latter on the 25th of October, 1899.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Rogers has been blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters, namely: Joseph B., who graduated from the Ohio Wesleyan College and died October 25, 1901; Margaret, the wife of Rev. S. L. Stewart, of Mansfield, Ohio; Anna M., at home; and Louis B., who died when four years of age.

Mr. Rogers is independent in his political views, voting for men and measures rather than adhering to party ties. He and his wife are devoted and faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he has filled all the offices, while his fraternal relations are with the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Rogers has ever been ready to lend his aid and in- fluence in the cause of every good movement for the progress and advancement of the community, and now at the age of sixty-eight years he is enjoying in retirement the accumulation of a profitable, successful and honorable career.

Joseph Tredway

Joseph Tredway, who follows farming in Jefferson township, owning a tract of land comprising two hundred and ninety-five acres, has now passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey, and his entire life has been passed in Coshocton county, so that he is thoroughly familiar with its history. He was born on the farm which is still his home, July 23, 1835, a son of Thomas and Ollie (Severans) Tredway, the former born in Harford county, Maryland, August 18, 1799, while the latter was born in Monongalia county, Virginia. The paternal grandfather of our subject was born in Iingland and emigrated to the new world with his father, who died at sea. Vhe son then continued the journey to this country alone. He had before leaving his native land learned the whitesmith or edged tool trade.

Thomas Tredway, the father of our subject, was reared to farm life in Maryland and came to Coshocton county in 1817 when a youth of eighteen years. He eventually located on a farm on the Walhonding river, which is now known as the Joseph Warren place. Later he took up his abode on the farm which the son now owns. This was at that time covered with timber but with characteristic energy the father undertook the work of clearing the land and he also erected a small log cabin, having neither doors nor windows during the first winter that it was occupied by the family. The father also took a deep interest in the improvement of the country, and despite the fact that he had much work to do on his home place he assisted in the erection of the church, which is still standing near the village of Mohawk. He was a very devoted member of this church for forty-two years, and each Sunday vas found in his place at the service and also at the weekly prayer meeting. He spent almost his entire life on his home farm and for a long period was engaged in general agricultural pursuits. He replaced the log cabin with a brick residence, which was one of the first to be built in the neighborhood. He was an old-time whig and upon the organization of the new republican party gave his support to its men and measures. He was highly respected in the community and at his death, which occurred May 15, 1881, the community mourned the loss of one who was much beloved and resp2cted. The mother preceded him to the home beyond many years previously, her death occurring in 1840, and their remains lie buried in Blooming Grove cemetery. Their family numbered nine children: Mahala, Elizabeth, Mary and Sarah, all of whom are now deceased; R. H., a retired farmer; Crispen, who has departed this life; Joseph, of this review; and John and James H., also deceased. After the death of the wife and mother the father married a second time, this union being with Mrs. Mary (Dennis) Clarke, by whom he

Joseph Tredway was educated in a log schoolhouse in Jefferson township and was reared to farm life. He shared with the other members of the family in the hardships and privations which had to be endured, owing to the unsettled condition of the country. He assisted in the development and improvement of the home farm until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted as a member of Company G, One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment, and going to the front did valiant and loyal service but was discharged on account of disability.

Following his return from the war he resumed farming pursuits and in due course of time was numbered among the substantial farmers of this section of the state. He is now the owner of the homestead property, this place comprising two hundred and ninety-five acres of rich and arable land situated in Jefferson township. He is here engaged in general agricultural pursuits and in his undertakings is meeting with excellent success. He also ewns realty in Portland, Oregon, and in Rapid City, Dakota. ;

Mr. Tredway was married in 1870 to Miss Mary W. Clarke, of Coshocton, and to this union five children have been born, namely: Bertha A., the wife of Claud Clarke, of East Union, Ohio; Edward, who is on the home farm; Wilber, who has departed this life; Wilma, the wife of James S. Clarke, of Warsaw; and Laura O., who is engaged in teaching and is at home.

Mr. Tredway gives his political support to the men and measures of the republican party and is a member of Newton Stanton Post, G. A. R., while his wife is identified with the Methodist Episcopal church. Over the record of his life there falls no shadow of wrong, for he has ever been most loyal to the ties of friendship and citizenship and his history well deserves mention in the annals of his native state.

John E. Richmond

John E. Richmond, who resides on his valuable and well improved farm of eighty-nine acres in Oxford township, was born in this county, August 24, 1842, the son of John and Elizabeth (Reed) Richmond. His paternal grandfather came to Coshocton county from Onondaga county, New York, in 1828, and located at Roscoe. He was a stone-cutter by trade and helped to build the Roscoe aqueduct. Afterward he conducted a hotel at Evansburg and a canal station, where he contracted to haul canal boats between Evansburg and Roscoe.

John Richmond, the father of our subject, was born in Onondaga county, New York, March 1, 1817, and was therefore but eleven years of age when his father settled in this county. In early manhood he wedded Elizabeth Reed, who was born in this township, April 10, 1817, and the young couple settled on a farm. Later he bought a canal boat, which he ran for a number of years. Five children were born to this union, of whom our subject is now the only one living. On April 1, 1850, the father, in company with a party of others, started for the gold fields of California by the overland route, arriving there September 15. He returned home July 15, 1852, by way of the water route, stopping in New York for two weeks and sending his gold nuggets to the mint at Philadelphia, where they were assayed and run into fifty dollar slugs. He evidently considered it unwise to inform his young children as to the amount he thus acquired, although they were not without curiosity in the matter, and our subject, then ten years of age, recalls conducting a quiet investigation in his own behalf on one occasion when his father was asleep, when he went into his bedroom and found the buckskin belt in which he carried his gold, and it was so heavy he could not lift it. The mother of our subject died in February, 1852, while the father was away. On his return from California he bought a farm of one hundred and twenty-one acres, which is now owned by his son Frank, a sketch of whose life appears elsewhere in this edition. Later in partnership with John Peck, of Coshocton, the father bought from a Mr. Davis a general merchandising store which they conducted for a number of years and which Mr. Richmond conducted alone for a long time after the death of his partner. He also ran a hotel at Orange and engaged in the erain business. Politically, he was a stanch republican. His second wife was Miss Elizabeth Higby, who was born in this county. Five children were born to this union, of whom but two are now living, Frank A., and Lottie, the wife of John Goudy, of Bisbee, Arizona. The mother died on May 22, 1864, and the father was again married, his third union being with Mary McClain, a native of this county, who died in 1890, having survived her husband, who passed away in 1887, for three years.

The educational advantages fifty and sixty years ago were not what they are to-day and our subject received but little schooling. He early engaged in active industrial pursuits, aiding his father in his extensive business interests. In 1870 he entered into partnership with his father in general merchandising at Orange and maintained his interest in this business up to about ten years ago, being in partnership with his brother for a number of years. In 1870 he bought seventy-five acres of land, which is now a part of his present farm of eighty-nine acres. All the improvements on the place are due to his energy and efforts and in them he feels justifiable pride. In 1851 he enlisted in the Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry and went into eamp at Camp Chase, Ohio, where he remained for three weeks, but owing to his father's opposition he was not mustered into service and returned home. On June 10, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but after serving for four months he contracted typhoid fever and was discharged September 26, 1862.

On June 18, 1863, Mr. Richmond was united in marriage to Miss Mary Wood, who was born in Harrison county, Ohio, January 2, 1844, and died October 13, 1885. Five children were born to this union, namely: Charles M., of Akron, Ohio; James C., who died in infaney; Harry M., who resides in South Dakota; Mary E., the wife of Edward Geese, of Oxford township ; and Noah M., a resident of New Comerstown, Ohio. On August 12, 1886, Mr. Richmond was again married, his second union being with Magete

Harstine, who was born in this county, November 28, 1863. Unto this union have been born five children, the firstborn dying in infancy. The others are Nina P., Emma M., Helen M. and Raymond J., all of whom reside at home with their parents.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Richmond hes voted the republican ticket. He is actively interested in community affairs and served as township trustee for nine years in succession. He has also held the office of school director and several times has served as president of the board of education. Fraternally, he is a member of the local Grange and of West Lafayette Post, G. A. R. For over fifty years he has been a faithful and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

William B. Evans

William B. Evans, a well known, progressive and prosperous agriculturist of Bethlehem township, was born on the old homestead farm in this county ou the 27th of December, 1867, his parents being Alexander and Mahala A. (Cochrell) Evans. Daniel Evans, the paternal grandfather, settled in Monroe township, Coshocton county, Ohio, in 1842. His family numbered nine children, as follows: Elizabeth, Mary, Martha, Matthew, Alexander, Albert, Alfred, William and John. The year 1838 witnessed the arrival of the Cochrell family in this county, the grandmother of our subject walking the entire distance from Woodsfield, Ohio. She carried in her arms her little daughter, Mahala A., and on the journey she stopped and rested for a while among the Indians at Gnadenhutten. After arriving in Coshocton county she settled at Roscoe, where she made her home until the marriage of her daughter, Mahala A., to Alexander Evans on the 16th of March, 1858.

Alexander Evans, the father of our subject, was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, December 24, 1835, and took up his abode on a farm in Bethlehem township, Coshocton county, in 1868, residing on that place until called to his final rest on the 10th of July, 1894. He carried on farming and stock-raising throughout his active business career and met with a gratifying measure of success in his undertakings, being widely recognized as a substantial and enterprising agriculturist of his community. A loyal supporter of the Union, he enlisted in 1862 as a member of Company K, Nineteenth Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and went with General Sherman on the march to the sea. He received his discharge at Nashville, Tennessee, in 1865, returning home with a most creditable military record. His brother, William Evans, who was a member of the Fifty-first Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was captured at Chickamauga and incarcerated in Libby and Andersonville prisons, his death occurring at the latter place. Alexander Evans upheld the candidates of the republican party where national issues were involved but at local elections cast an independent ballot, supporting the man whom he believed best fitted for the office in question. He capably served his fellow townsmen in the position of assessor and was a member of tha school board for fifteen years, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. Though not a member of any religious denomination, he usually attended the services of the Methodist church and was a man whose upright, honorable career commanded the regard and esteem of all with whom he was associated. His wife, whose birth occurred in Monroe county, Ohio, March 16, 1835, passed away on the 10th of June, 1904.

William B. Evans, whose name initiates this review, attended the schools of his home locality until sixteen years of age and received a certificate to teach school, which he held for eight successive years. He never followed the profession, however, as his assistance was needed in the work of the home farm. His entire life has been spent on the old homestead where he was born and in its cultivation and development he is still successfully engaged, the fields annually yielding golden harvests as a regard for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.

On the 8th of October, 1893, Mr. Evans was united in marriage to Miss Emma Mullet, a daughter of N. J. and Mary Ann (Mullet) Mullet, who are mentioned on another page of this work. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Evans have been born seven children, namely: Katie Oka, Mary Ellie, Mona Belle, Russell Otis, Charlotte Goldie and William Owen, all at home; and Harold Orlando, who died in infancy.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Evans has given his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy and has been the efficient incumbent in the offices of township clerk and assessor. while for twelve successive years he acted as a member of the school board. He and his family are all devoted members of the Methodist church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest. He was early trained to habits of industry, enterprise and integrity, and these have proven strong elements in the success which has come to him and which entitles him to representation among the prosperous and well known citizens of his native county.

James F. And John A. Forney

James F. and John A. Forney, who are successfully carrying on agricultural pursuits in Linton township, are the largest importers of French Percheron horses in this part of the state. James F. Forney was born in Linton township on the 4th of September, 1859. His paternal grandfather, who was the first white child born in Guernsey county, Ohio, removed to Linton township, Coshocton county, where he entered more than a thousand acres of land. The grandmother of our subject had the- honor of naming Linton township when it was organized. A. Z. Forney, father of James F. Forney, was born in Linton township, April 14, 1828, and became very successful in his business undertakings, being one of the earliest stock-raisers. He wedded Miss Hulda Doty, whose birth occurred in New Jersey, July 6, 1825, and who passed away on the 29th of June, 1896. A. Z. Forney survived her. for a number of years, his demise occurring in Linton township on the 4th of April, 1904. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children: Harriett, the wife of Frank McAllister; Joseph, of Texas; James F. and John A., who are the subjects of this sketch; Sarah, the wife of T. K. Swan, of Guernsey county, Ohio; Rachel, who is the wife of Isaac McAllister and resides in Linton township; and one who is deceased.

James F. Forney remained under the parental roof and worked for his fathers until he was twenty-three years of age, when the latter decided to turn the farm over to his two sons, James F. and John A. On the day that John A. Forney attained his majority he and his brother formed a partnership, which has been successfully continued to the present time. They own seven hundred acres of rich and valuable land in Linton township, John A. residing on his farm of four hundred acres, while James F. has lived on his tract of three hundred acres since 1893. They are the largest importers of French Percheron horses in this part of Ohio, having commenced in this business twenty years ago. They have made three voyages to France and on returning from the last trip to that country, brought back with them sixty thousand dollars' worth of Percheron stallions and mares. They have also handled Clydesdale, French coach and Hambletonian horses, and are widely recognized as prosperous and enterprising citizens of their native county. Since 1905 John A. Forney has been secretary of the American Breeders & Importers Percheron Registry Company of the United States and Canada.

In 1882 James F. Forney was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte Hamersley, whose birth occurred in Linton township in 1861, her parents being T. J. and Mary L. (Adams) Hamersley. Her father was born in Linton township in 1823 and passed away in 1905, while the mother, whose birth occurred in Medina county, Ohio, in 1835, still survives. Their family numbered four children, namely: Mrs. Forney; Lydia B., who makes her home in New York; Mrs. Lizzie Culberson, of New Comerstown; and Francis, at home. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Forney have been born six children: Eldridge, who wedded Edith Wilson and lives near home; Thomas G., Mary, Rose, Helen and Hulda, at home.

John A. Forney was born on the 11th of March, 1862, on the farm in Linton township on which he still resides. On the 15th of September, 1892, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Ella Phillips, whose birth occurred in Guernsey county, Ohio, January 29, 1871, her parents being George W. and Eliza (Mitchell) Phillips, both natives of Guernsey county. The father, who was born in 1821, passed away in 1904. The mother, whose natal day was January 15, 1830, makes her home in Plainfield, Ohio, having now attained the age of seventy-eight years. Of her family of thirteen children, eight still survive, as follows: George L., of Cleveland, Ohio; J. A. D., residing in Nebraska; T. J., of Kansas; G. F., who makes his home in Iowa; Mrs. Josephine Dull, of Guernsey county; Howard, living in Plainfield; Mrs. Charlotte Cosby, of Guernsey county; and Mrs. Forney.

James F. and John A. Forney are both republicans in their political views, while their religious faith is indicated by their membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. They are well known and highly esteemed throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, having won the friendship and regard of all with whom they have come in contact in business or social relations.

William Green

William Green, who since 1906, has served as president of the Ohio Mine Workers Organization, is at the head of an association that is of marked value in the industrial department of the state. He was born in Franklin township, March 8, 1870, a son of Hugh and Jane (Oram) Green, who came from Wales to Coshocton county in 1868 and settled in Franklin township. The father was engaged in mining in his native country and followed that occupation after his arrival in Ohio. His family numbered two sons and four daughters, of whom one daughter is deceased.

William Green, the eldest in his father's family, was a youth of sixteen years when he entered the mines with his father. In his early youth he attended the district schools but as his aid was needed in the support of the family his advantages in this direction were somewhat limited. He later added to his fund of knowledge by reading good literature during his leisure hours and in this way acquired a good English education and a broad knowledge of public affairs. He made a close study of mining interests and was a student of character, for his close contact with miners gave him ample opportunity for study along this line. In his early manhood he showed a talent for leadership, which soon brought him into prominence and in 1900, when but thirty years of age, he was elected to the presidency of Subdistrict No. 6 of the Ohio Mine Workers Organization, comprising the counties of Coshocton, Muskingum, Guernsey, Perry, Noble and Holmes. He thus served for five years when, having proved a capable incumbent, he was called to still higher honors, being elected in 1906 to the presidency of the Ohio Mine Workers Organization, and he has filled the office with such general satisfaction that he has twice been reelected without opposition. This organization embraces the entire state of Ohio, and is composed of a membership of more than forty-six thousand men. Heavy responsibility rests upon Mr. Green in this connection and it is seldom that so young a man is found in such an important position and this fact is an indication of his high standing in mining circles and of his capability for organizing and directing forces, and thus he has become a power in mining circles in the Buckeye state.

Mr. Green was married April 14, 1892, to Miss Jennie Mobley, a daughter of Frank and Mary Mobley, of Coshocton county. Four interesting daughters grace their home: Flora E., Esther, Nellie and Clara. The family home is a beautiful cottage, near the eastern border of Coshocton, where the children can enjoy good educational advantages.

Mr. Green's study of the political questions and issues of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the democratic party. He is a member of the Baptist church and his fraternal relations are with Coshocton lodge, I. O. O. F., of which he has been a member since 1900, and also with the Foresters of America. He is an advocate of every public measure or movement that has for its object the betterment of public conditions and the elevation of mankind. He is a splendid type of a self-made man, showing to what position of honor and influence a young man may rise when he adheres to strict honesty, integrity and correct living. The true measure of success is determined by what one has accomplished and, as taken in contradistinction to the old adage that a prophet is not without honor save in his own country, there is particular interest attaching to the career of the subject of this review, since he is a native son of Coshocton county, where he has passed his entire life and-so directed his ability and efforts as to gain wide recognition as one of the representative citizens of this state.

Peter Perrine De Hart

Peter Perrine De Hart was at one time president of the Coshocton Manufacturing Company and a man of well balanced powers, whose business and social qualities gained for him a creditable place in public regard. He was born in Kimbolton, Guernsey county, Ohio, May 29, 1853. His father, William De Hart, was a native of Trenton, New Jersey, and on his arrival in Ohio in 1832 became a resident of Guernsey county, where he secured land and followed farming, becoming one of the enterprising agriculturists of that locality. He was well known and highly respected there. His birth occurred in 1800, his death on the 9th of January, 1890, so that he lived to be about ninety years of age. His political support was given to the republican party. From pioneer times he was active in the development of his community, bearing his full share in the work of general progress and improvement as wild lands were converted into rich fields and log cabins were supplanted by modern farm residences. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Powers, was a native of Pennsylvania and, surviving her husband about three years, passed away in 1893.

Peter P. De Hart was a pupil in the district schools near his father's home and alternated his school work with the labors of the farm. After leaving home he went to the west and was variously employed for two years. He then returned to Guernsey county and became a manufacturer and _ salesman, remaining an active factor in the business circles of that locality until about thirty years of age, when in 1882 he removed to Coshocton. Here he entered into a business agreement with E. C. Renner, for whom he became a traveling salesman and later they formed a partnership under the name of the Coshocton Manufacturing Company, conducting a novelty advertising business. A year or two later they merged their interests with the Premium Manufacturing Company and from that time until his death Mr. De Hart was not active in business management. He had through former years of activity acquired a goodly competence and it supplied him throughout his remaining

In 1880 Mr. De Hart was married to Miss Ella Thompson, of New Comerstown, Ohio, and unto them were born a daughter and son: Bernice, who was born in 1883 and is the wife of Harry Hunt; and Frank, who was born in 1888 and is still in school.

Mr. De Hart belonged to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Methodist Episcopal church, associations which indicated much concerning his characteristics and the principles which governed his actions. In community affairs he was deeply interested and at the time of his death was serving as a member of the county election board and also of the board of public safety. He passed away August 28, 1905, at the age of fifty-two years. He was yet in the prime of life, had many friends and was filling a position in public affairs that made him a valued citizen. Friendship was to him no mere idle word, for he was loyal to all those to whom he gave his confidence and good will. He was also devoted to the welfare of his family and his salient characteristics were such as make his example well worthy of emulation.

George Branstool

George Branstool, who is extensively engaged in farming in New Castle township, was born in this township on the 24th of May, 1869, his parents being Lewis and Margaret (Breightenbucher) Branstool, both natives of Holmes county. When still in his boyhood the father came to Coshocton county and has here successfully followed agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career, now making his home in Jefferson township. His wife also still survives and the record of their eleven children is as follows: Josephine, the wife of John Fox, of Tiverton township; George, of this review; one who died in infancy; Emanuel and Maggie, both at home; Henry, a resident of Pittsburg; Lydia and Levi, who have passed away; Bertha and Gusta, twins, at home; and Clarence, who is also yet under the parental roof.

George Branstool was educated in the common schools of his native township and remained on the home farm until twenty-one years of age. He then began the operation of a sawmill and threshing machine and was thus engaged for five years, on the expiration of which period he removed to Loudonville, Ohio, where he conducted a lumberyard and planing-mill for ten years. Subsequently he took up his abode on his present farm of three hundred acres in New Castle township and his since given his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits. He has placed many substantial improvements on the property, which in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. At the outset of his career he had neither money nor influential friends to aid him in gaining a foothold but possessed the inherent force of character and unabating energy

On the 16th of April, 1896, Mr. Branstool was united in marriage to Miss Dora Draper, of Tiverton township, by whom he has three children, Nellie, Lewis and Charles, all at home.

Mr. Branstool gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy where national questions and issues are involved but at local elections casts an independent ballot. He has served as councilman while living in Loudonville, and has ever given his active aid and cooperation to movements instituted for the general welfare. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America at Loudonville, and is also affiliated with the Knights & Ladies of Security. His wife is a devoted member of the Disciple church and is highly esteemed for her many good traits of heart and mind. Mr. Branstool has also gained an extensive circle of friends here and is widely recognized as a substantial and public-spirited citizen of his native county.

George Balch

George Balch who is engaged in general farming and sheep-raising in White Eyes township, where he owns and operates a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres, was born in Clay township, Knox county, Ohio, May 4, 18388. His parents were John W. and Malinda (Hull) Balch, the former a native of the state of New York and the latter of Ohio. His death occurred in the year 1873, while his wife, who survived him for twenty years, died in 1898.

George Balch was reared under the parental roof and was early trained to habits of industy and economy. His mental discipline was received in the public schools and when he started out in life on his own account he was employed as a sawyer, but has since been successful as a carpenter, millwright and farmer. He arrived in Coshocton county in 1852 and has remained here continuously since, with the exception of the years 1855, 1866 and 1867, spending that period in Missouri. Upon his return to this county he engaged in the lumber business for a short time and then bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in White Eyes township, making his home thereon for two years. On the expiration of that period he sold the property and removed to Coshocton, where he lived for six months, after which he bought the farm upon which he now resides. It is an excellent tract of land of one hundred and twelve acres located not far from Fresno in White Eyes township. It is well adapted to the raising of the various cereals aud the fields annually bring forth good crops for the plowing, planting and cultivating are carried on in a progressive manner in harmony with the most modern methods of farm work. In addition to tilling the soil Mr. Balch also raises sheep and derives considerable income from this branch of the business.

In September, 1865, occurred the marriage of Mr. Balch and Miss Nancy J. Boyd, who was born in Keene township, this county, in 1837, a daughter of John and Bessie (Tony) Boyd, who were natives of Ireland. Their family numbered five children, while unto Mr. and Mrs. Balch have been born eight children, the second of whom died in infancy. The eldest child, Charles, is also deceased. Emma L. and Eva M. were twins. The former is now the wife of E. E. Reames, while the latter has passed away. Nannie E. is at home. The next three children were triplets - John. Laura M. and Leola Jane. The first two named are upon the old home farm, which John is engaged in operating, and Leola Jane is now the wife of J. R. McClary, of West Lafayette, Ohio. The death of Mrs. Balch occurred in December, 1907, her husband and five children being left to mourn her loss. Her remains were laid to rest in the Lewisville cemetery and her death was deeply regretted by many friends who knew her as a most estimable lady and a loving and devoted wife and mother. She was a faithful member of the Presbyterian church, to which Mr. Balch also belongs. He is a member of the Grange, and in politics is an earnest republican, with firm faith in the principles of the party. He has served as township trustee and for several terms has been a member of the school board, in which connection he has rendered valuable service to the cause of public education. For more than half a century he has lived in this county and has witnessed many changes here, as the old habits of life and work have been replaced by the evidences of a modern civilization. He has always kept in touch with the trend of the times in agricultural progress and has ever been interested in what the county has accomplished in other lines. He is recognized as a man of genuine worth, in whom any one may safely trust, for his life has been guided by high principles and characterized by manly conduct.

C. O. Mercer

C. O. Mercer, a successful auctioneer and farmer residing in Perry township, was born near Bladensburg, Knox county, Ohio, October 10, 1867, his parents being Levi and Jane (Houck) Mercer. The grandfather, Levi Mercer, who was a cabinetmaker by trade, journeyed from Washington county, Pennsylvania, to Knox county, Ohio, being among the early settlers there. He spent the remainder of his life in that county and carried on agricultural pursuits as a life work. Levi Mercer, the father of C. O. Mercer, was born in Knox county and there resided until the year 1875, when he removed to Licking county, where he made his home until called to his final rest in 1898. He was a graduate of Kenyon College and a classmate of President Hayes. In connection with auctioneering, in which line of activity he was very successful, he also carried on farming and blacksmithing. Politically he was a democrat, fraternally a Mason and in religious faith was a Methodist. He was moreover a public-spirited citizen and his aid and influence could always be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted for the general welfare. His wife, a native of Bladensburg, Knox county, was there reared and married and still survives, now making her home in Licking county. Unto this worthy couple were born nine children, namely: Wilmette, deceased; Luna, the wife of G. F. Van Winkle, a farmer of Knox county; Evalina, the deceased wife of Robert Gardner; Josephine, the wife of W. O. Bickem, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits near Bladensburg, Knox county; Daisy, the wife of W. O. Wright, of Coshocton county; Clarence, who has passed away; C. O., of this review; John, who is also deceased; and George, who is manager cf the Des Moines branch of the Negal Clothing Company.

C. O. Mercer was educated in the district schools of his native county and started to cry sales when only fourteen years of age, having since been successfully connected with the auctioneering business. He has sold more goods than any other auctioneer in the state of Ohio and has also done work along this line in the adjoining states. Though he has confined his operations principally to Ohio and Pennsylvania, he has also done some work in Iowa, Illinois and Indiana. He owns one hundred acres of valuable and well improved land in Perry township and in his farming operations has also gained a gratifying measure of prosperity, the fields annually returning golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.

In 1889 Mr. Mercer was united in marriage to Miss Ella Rine, a daughter of J. C. Rine, who resides near New Guilford, Coshocton county. They now have three children, Harry, Lewis and Forrest, all at home.

In politics Mr. Mercer is a democrat and fraternally is connected with the Knights of Pythias lodge at New Guilford, in which he has passed through all the chairs. His life has been one of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his county.

Joseph Workman

Joseph Workman is engaged in general agricultural pursuits and owns seventy-four acres of rich and well improved land in Tiverton township. He was born on a farm in Tiverton township, May 14, 1851, a son of Jesse and Nancy (Conner) Workman. The father was born in Belmont county, Ohio, in 1810, and was a lad of ten years when he came to Coshocton county, where le was reared. He followed farming as a life work, mostly in this county. In 1837, however, he went to Sullivan county, Indiana, and there remained until 1845, when he returned to Coshocton county, where he was engaged in farming until just before his death, when he removed to Holmes county and there passed away in 1873, his remains being interred in Tiverton. His first wife, who bore the maiden name of Nancy Conner, was born in Pennsylvania, and died in 1863. She became the mother of ten children, namely: Nealy and Grace, who are deceased; Solomon, who follows farming in Sullivan county, Indiana; James R., Lewis, Maria, John and Ruey, all of whom have departed this life; and Mary and Joseph, twins, but the former is deceased. Following the death of his wife, Jesse Workman was again married, his second union being with Maria Parsons, by whom he had two children:

Joseph Workman, the immediate subject of this sketch, was educated in the district schools of Tiverton township and remained under the parental roof until he had reached the age of twenty-two years. During this time he had been trained in the duties of the home farm, so that at that age he was well prepared to carry on farming on his own account. He owns seventyfour acres of land in Tiverton township, twenty-four acres in one tract and fifty acres in another, the latter tract being well adapted to the raising of wheat. Mr. Workman is successful in his work and is numbered among the substantial citizens of his locality.

Mr. Workman was married in 1895 to Miss Lizzie A. Lonon, a resident of Coshocton county. In politics he is a democrat and in 1902-03 served as assessor of his township. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church and are people of the highest respectability, commanding the confidence and esteem of a large circle of friends.

Major Thomas J. Platt

For sixteen years Major Thomas J. Platt has been numbered among the prominent and progressive citizens of West Lafayette as president of the West Lafayette Bank. He has also taken an active interest in other public enterprises and may therefore be termed one of the builders of this village, for his connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same.

Mr. Platt is a native of the Buckeye state, born in Linton township, Coshocton county, December 16, 1840, a son of Thomas and Eliza (Harbison) Platt. Both the Platt and the Harbison families were early settlers of this section of the state, the paternal grandfather having settled here in 1816, at which time he entered land from the government. He served in the war of 1812. The maternal grandfather came from Baltimore, Maryland, to Linton township, Coshocton county, in 1830, and was therefore classed among its pioneer settlers.

The father, Thomas Platt, was born in New Jersey, while the birth of the mother occurred in Baltimore, Maryland. The father was a carpenter by trade but abandoned that pursuit at the time of the Civil war to become a member of Company I, Sixty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for two years. He participated in the battle of Stone River and in many other hotly contested engagements during the struggle between the north and the south. He was a democrat in his political views and allegiance and took a prominent and active part in the political life of this section of the state. He served as coroner and as sheriff of Coshocton county. His death occurred May 12, 1897, while his wife was called to her final rest many years before, her death occurring May 12, 1861, just thirty-six years previous. Their union was blessed with the following children: Thomas J., of this review; Allen H., a resident of Coshocton; Mary J., the widow of William Smith; John P., who makes his home in Cameron, Missouri; Robert V., who has departed this life; Agnes, the widow of Victor Vickers; Emmett, deceased; Bell, the wife of Henry Norris and a resident of Coshocton county; Joseph H., of Plainfield, Ohio; and one who died in infancy. Not only the father but four of his sons, Allen H., Thomas J., John Parker and Robert V., manifested their loyalty and patriotism by serving in the Civil war and fortunately all returned home uninjured, none being wounded in battle.

Thomas J. Platt was reared to agricultural pursuits and acquired his education in the common schools. At the age of seventeen years he began business life as a clerk in the employ of a cousin in Perry county, Ohio, with whom he remained for four years. He then put aside all business and personal eonsiderations and offered his services to the government at the time of the Civil war, becoming a member of Company F, Seventeenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which he joined April 21, 1861, for three months' service, the company being organized at Lancaster, this state. At the end of that period he reenlisted for three years, October 11, 1861, as a member of Company D, Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. On the 16th of November of that year he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and was with his regiment at the battle of Winchester, Virginia, March 28, 1862; and at Harrison's Landing, July 10, 1862. On account of a vacancy caused by death of the first heutenant he was promoted to the rank of second lieutenant, July 13, 1863, while still later he was commissioned first lieutenant at Morris Island, South Carolina. His regiment took an active part in the assault on Fort Wagner, where they lost in killed and wounded seventy-five men. On the 24th of October, 1863, he was promoted to the captaincy of his company, which took Fort Gregg, and he was also in the siege at Charleston. At Richmond, Virginia, on the 26th of December, 1864, he was commissioned major of his regiment and saw active service during the campaign before Richmond and Petersburg. On the 16th of June of the same year he was commissioned lieutenant colonel but as there was not a vacancy it was a complimentary commission and he was never mustered into the office. On the 1st of August, 1865, the Sixty-second and Sixty-seventh Ohio Regiments were consolidated and the surplus officers of both were mustered out of service, Major Platt being retained in that position with the Sixty-seventh Ohio Regiment and was mustered out with that rank on the 7th of December, 1865. He displayed marked bravery during his entire service as is indicated by the fact of his promotion to the rank of major. While located at Port Royal or Hilton Head, his regiment reenlisted for three years or until the close of the war and were granted a thirty days' furlough. After boarding a ship to return home, Major Platt was ordered back to land to take charge of a part of the Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry who were without an officer and he remained with them from the first of January, 1864, until the latter part of the following April, when he returned north with the regiment and met his old Ohio comrades. The transfer was made at Gloucester Point, Virginia, but before leaving for home the Illinois boys presented the

Returning to his home at the close of the war, Major Platt formed a partnership with David Brelsford in the conduct of a mercantile establishment at Plainfield, Ohio, but in 1868 he retired from the firm and for one year was employed as traveling salesman by Jewett & Company, of Newark, Ohio. He then purchased a stock of merchandise of Jonathan Wiggins and carried on business successfully until 1892, when he retired and removed to West Lafayette, since which 'time he has made his home in this village. He was one of the organizers of the West Lafayette Bank, of which he is now acting as president. He is a careful man of business and it is largely through his individual efforts that the bank has been classed among the solid and safe banking institutions of this section of the state.

Major Platt was married June 20, 1867, to Miss Ella C. Sangster, who was born in Virginia, July 16, 1848, a daughter of Charles F. and Sarah (Gore) Sangster, both of whom were natives of Loudoun county, that state, coming to Ohio in 1850, at which time they made a settlement in Muskingum county, while later they took up their abode in Coshocton county, where they purchased a tract of land. Their family numbered nine children, of whom Mrs. Platt was the second in order of birth By her marriage she has become the mother of four children, a son and three daughters, as follows: Harry, who is a traveling salesman and makes his home in Coshoeton; Anna S., the wife of F. E. Karr, who is engaged in the insurance business in Coshocton; Nellie Lee, who was graduated from the West Lafayette high school and is at home; and Carrie M., the wife of Charles Walters, who is engaged in the hardware business in connection with his father and brothers under the firm name of John A. Walters & Sons, in West Lafayette.

Major Platt maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership with the Grand Army of the Republic at Plainfield, while both he and his wife are devoted and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He has been watchful of all the details of his business and of all indications pointing to prosperity and from the beginning has had an abiding faith in the ultimate success of the bank. He has gained wealth, yet it has not been alone the goal for which he has striven, for he belongs to that class of representative American citizens who promote the general prosperity while advancing individual interests.

John C. Miskimen

The list of the leading citizens of Coshocton county contains the name of John C. Miskimen, one of the wealthy landowners of Linton township, where he possesses four hundred acres. He was born in Coshocton county, September 27, 1857, a son of John and Rachel (Burt) Miskimen. The family was established in this section of the state when the paternal grandfather came here and entered a large tract of land from the government in

1806. The father of our subject, John Miskimen, was born in this county, July 21, 1815, while the mother was born in Orange county, New York, and came to this county with her parents when a young lady of sixteen years. The father followed farming as a life work and at the time of his death owned fourteen hundred acres. He made a special study of agriculture and was very successful in his undertakings. He was a republican in his political belief but was not active as an office seeker. He followed farming in Oxford township from the time of his marriage until 1869, when he removed io New Comerstown but enjoyed his new home for only a short period, passing away there July 10, 1870, while his wife survived for a few years and died April 5, 1876. Their family numbered twelve children, of whom only five survive: Daniel; Frank; George; John C., of this review; Mary, the wife of George W. Miskimen, who, though of the same name, was no relation.

John Croul

The name Croul is an old and prominent one in agricultural circles in Coshocton county, for from the time of its earliest pioneer settlement members of the family have been actively connected with its development and improvement. John Croul is a worthy representative of this family, his birth having occurred on the farm which is now his home, June 12, 1850, being the youngest of three children born of the marriage of Louis and Elizabeth (Miller) Croul, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father emigrated to the United States when a boy and located in this county. The Ohio canal was at that time under course of construction and the father secured work in this connection, being thus employed for some time. After the completion of the canal he engaged in farming. He bore many hardships and trials incident to life in a new country, for the methods of farming were very crude as compared to those of the present day. He tilled his fields with the use of oxen and had to go long distances to mill and market. At one time he split nine hundred rails and carried them on his back to the place where he built a fence. He was highly esteemed in this section of the state us one of its pioneer settlers and his death, which occurred in 1898, was the oceasion of deep regret to his many friends. The wife and mother died many vears before, her demise occurring in 1880. Their family numbered three children: William, a farmer of Clark township; Dora Elizabeth, deceased; and John, of this review.

John Croul acquired his education in the district schools of Jefferson township and remained on the home farm until he reached the age of twentyseven years. During this time he assisted his father in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting. After establishing a home of his own he lived near his parents and continued to render assistance to his father until the latter's death. Mr. Croul now owns eighty acres of rich and arable land, forty acres of which is located in Jefferson township and forty acres in Monroe township. He has developed and improved the land, having erected a good modern home and many substantial outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock, and everything about the place is kept in a neat and thrifty appearance. In addition to carrying on general farming he also raises good grades of stock and this branch of his business is proving profitable to him.

It was in 1886 that Mr. Croul was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Filler, a resident of Monroe township, who by her marriage became the mother of one daughter, Dora Elizabeth, now deceased. Mr. Croul gives his political support to the men and measures of democracy and his fraternal relations are with the Patrons of Industry. He is a member of the Lutheran church and has been'superintendent of the Sunday school, while his wife is a member of the Evangelical church. He displays splendid judgment in carrying on his business affairs and to those whose good fortune it is to know him intimately, his companionship and friendship are appreciated and helpful.

Stokely S. Fisher, pastor of the Methodist Protestant church at Coshocton, was born on a farm near Woodsfield, Monroe county, Ohio, August 8, 1865. The same locality was the birthplace of his father, Simon A. Fisher, whose natal day was September 18, 1845. The father was educated for the ministry of the Methodist Protestant church and filled several different charges, being pastor at New Comerstown, Steubenville and other places. He engaged in preaching for nearly forty years and in 1898 accepted the pastorate of the Methodist Protestant church of Coshocton, where he continued in the active work of the denomination until 1903, when he was stricken with paralysis and passed away. For two years he was president of the Muskingum conference and served on all the principal church boards under the direction of the general conference. For sixteen years he was president of the Home Mission church and was the first president of the board of trustees of the West Lafayette College. He acted as a delegate to all the conferences of his church during his ministerial career with the exception of two, and many honors came to him in recognition of his ability and his consecration and zeal in his holy calling. The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by the Kansas City University, which is the principal educational institution of his church. He was instrumental in erecting several houses of worship, including one at Cambridge and one at Coshocton, and from the period of his earliest identification with the ministry he was unfaltering in his efforts to promote the growth of the denomination with which he was identified. He was widely recognized as one of the most prominent divines of the Methodist Protestant faith and the church met a distinct loss in his death, which occurred September 22, 1905. His memory, however, remains as a blessed benediction to all who knew him, while his words linger as a source of inspiration and encouragement to those who came under his teaching. He married Maria Westbrook, a native of Woodsfield, Monroe county, Ohio, who is still living at the age of sixty-two years. Her father was a veteran of the Civil war, serving as captain of a cavalry company.

Dr. Fisher, whose name introduces this record, attended the public schools of the various towns to which the itinerant customs of the Methodist nunistry took the family. He was graduated from the Cambridge (Ohio) high school in 1882 and afterward attended the Adrian (Mich.) College, the principal institution of learning of his denomination. However, he had entered the ministry at the age of seventeen years and was regularly ordained at the age of nineteen, before he had completed his college course. His first. charge was at Wellsville, Columbiana county, Ohio, and later he served the churches at Byesville, Empire, Attica, Cambridge, West Lafayette and Coshocton. In 1895 he accepted the presidency of the West Lafayette College, continuing at the head of that institution until he came to Coshocton in 1897.

Tn all the intervening. years Dr. Fisher had been a close student of literature and science and pursued non-resident work under the direction of various colleges. In 1883 he brought forth his first volume of poems, published by G. L. Manchester, of Columbus, and this was followed by other editions in 1884 and 1886. From that period on he did little work in that direction until a recent date, when he has resumed his literary interests and is a regular contributor to various standard magazines and religious publications. His early poem of greatest note is Lelia Lee. He is also the author of a number of essays on scientific subjects, treating of microscopical biology. His superior scholarship has won Tecognition from different schools, the Kansas City University conferring upon him the Doctor of Divinity degree in 1904, while from West Lafayette College, in 1905, he received the degree of Doctor of Science.

On the Ist of July, 1886, Dr. Fisher was married to Miss Alwilda Adelee Smith, of Fairview, Ohio, and they became the parents of seven children, but Charles W., born December 11, 1887, died on the 17th of October, 1905. The others are: Stokely M., born February 6, 1890; Mary Lillian, whose birth occurred December 26, 1891; Ruth Gertrude, whose natal day was July 4, 1894; Edith Adelee, born December 13, 1896; Thomas Smith, who was born March 19, 1899; and Melville Eugene, born September 25, 1907.