Darke County, Ohio - The whole text, 1880 (part 24 of 31)

"DANIEL HOLE, farmer; P. 0. Versailles. William, the father of Daniel, was a native of Virginia, born on the 28th of April. 1759 ; he married Miss Ruth Crane, who was born in New Jersey on the 23d of March, 17U7 ; they emigrated to Kentucky in 1787. locating near Lexington, Fayette County, traveling the entire distance from New Jersey on horseback ; while in Kentucky, they were annoyed a great deal by the Indians, and upon one occasion Mr. Hole came very near having his scalp taken by them : while out one day. gathering wild plums. he was attacked by one of the "redskins.'' who shot at him. giving him a tlesh wound in the arm, and us Mr. Hole did not have any firearms with him, he concluded it would he 1 letter for him to make his way back to the fort ; so. dropping his basket of plums, he started at lightning speed through the wroods, the Indian pursuing him with tomahawk upraised ready to fell him whenever the opportunity presented itself: but William ran for life, making his way to the fort in safety, while the Indian skulked ofFin dismay to think that the "pale-face" could outwind him : Mr. Hole resided in Kentucky for about two years, after which he removed to Ft. Washington, now Cincinnati, Ohio, where he obtained a lot by selling and improving the same, where he resided for a period of about five years, when he removed to Montgomery County, locating one mile east of the present Miamisburg, which at that time was a trading-post or station ; he remained there till his death, which occurred on the 25th of February, 1830 ; Ruth, his wife, departed this life in Fountain City, Ind., in the year 1852, at the advanced age of 85. Daniel, the subject of this memoir, is a native of Ohio, born in Montgomery County on the 11th of December, 1805 ; lived with his parents till he was 22 years of age, assisting his father in the great task of clearing and opening up a farm ; he did not have the advantage of schools, as in those days there was not even a subscription school in the whole county. On the 24th of Jul}', 1827, he celebrated his marriage with Miss Hannah Bartlett, and during the fall of the same year they moved on his father's farm, their household furniture consisting of two beds, one set of pot-metal knives and forks, one stew-kettle and skillet, one set cups and saucers, and one big iron kettle, using a box for a table ; he resided on his father's farm for about three years, after which he moved to Miami County, locating near Clayton in an old log cabin which was situated in the woods ; he now commenced the herculean task of clearing and opening up a farm ; he only remained there about eighteen months, when he removed to Darke Count}', locating in Wayne Township, Sec. 24, where he has resided ever since ; when he moved to his present place of residence, he found it all under heavy timber ; this was in 1831 ; he erected a cabin in the woods, and began the task of opening up a farm - the tract of land consisted of 80 acres, for which he paid $1.25 per acre. Mr. Hole has, with the help of his good and industrious wife, accumulated a considerable amount of property ; they hold to the Universalist faith, knowing that God is a God of love, and will finally gather all his children home, not to a sectarian heaven, but a heaven for all ; nine children have been born to them, of whom six are living, viz. : Huldah, born May 17, 1828; David, June 11, 1829; Jay Oct. 23, 1832 ; Catharine, June 11, 1838 ; John B., Feb. 25, 1842 ; Mary E., Sept' 9, 1844. Mrs. Hole was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, one mile west of Miamisburg, on the 23d of November, 1810.

L. C. KLIPSTINE, teacher, Sec. 32 ; P. O. Webster. William, his father, is a native Prussian, born near Leipsic in 1828; he came to America with his parents when he was about 6 years old, landing in New York, and in 1835 he came to Darke County, locating in Wayne Township, near Webster, Sec. 29, where he has resided ever since. In 1849 he, with several others, crossed the Plains to California in search of gold, being six months in crossing ; he remained there about thirteen months, meeting with fair success, after which he returned by the Isthmus of Panama. He married Miss L. Haack, who is a native of Prussia ; the}' are the parents of six children, viz., John, William, Amos, Callie, Clara and Lewis C. The subject of this sketch was born in Darke County on the 6th of May, 1854 ; he spent his boyhood days on the farm, assisting his father in the cultivation of the soil ; he received his preparatory education in the district schools, after which he attended the Versailles High School, where he received a good academic education. On the 26th of September, 1878, he celebrated his marriage with Rosa B. Kinney, daughter of Robert M. and Mary Kinney ; she was born on the 17th of August, 1854 ; after his marriage, he moved on his farm, where he had erected a beautiful two-story brick house. Mr. Klipstine taught his first school when he was only 16 years old, in Shelby County, in the swamps, the schoolhouse beinonearly surrounded by water ; he labored faithfully for six months, giving universal satisfaction, and at the close of the term the patrons insisted that he should continue, but on account of the gloomy sui-roundings, he declined their liberal offer ; he has taught sixty months altogether, the field of labor being the counties of Shelby, Miami and Darke, and at present is teaching the Webster school ; he teaches during the winter and farms in the summer ; is a member of the Lutheran Church, his wife being a member of the German Reform Church ; they have a host of friends and are held in high esteem by all who know them ; is strictly temperate in all his habits. Mr. Klipstine has traveled over nine different States and a part of Canada ; he has also visited all the largest cities in the United States.

I'1 \\ ANCIS KUSNICK, banker, druggist and lumber dealer, Versailles, Ohio ; was born in Porentry, Switzerland, Dec. 16, 1837 ; left his native country when but 20 years of age and came to America, an entire stranger, in a strange, vet hospitable land ; had but little of this world's goods, hut being in possession of a classical education and an indomitable will to fight the battles of this life manly, has by his industry and strict temperance habits accumulated a huge fortune ; Mr. Kusnick first located in Chicago. 111., where he practiced medicine for two years, after which he moved to Versailles, in the spring of 1861, where he has continued to reside ever since ; practiced medicine here for seven years with good success ; giving up the practice of medicine he engaged in the drug business and lumber trade, to which he added an exchange bank, doing a business of about $300,000 a year. Was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Royon, in Russia, Shelby Co., Ohio, in the year 1861 ; seven children were the fruits of this union, viz.: Leopold F.. born Aug. 10, 1862 ; Louis E., Oct. 1, 1863 ; Frank J., Feb. 11, 1865 ; Mary C. (deceased), Feb. 7, 1870 ; Adolphine F., Sept. 30, 1872 ; Sidonie J., Sept. 24, 1874 ; Joseph J., June 11, 1878 ; Mr. Kusnick takes a very active part in religion, being one of the leading members of the Roman Catholic Church, to whom all look for advice ; contributes largely to charitable institutions, and shows his sympathy to the poor by donating liberally ; served as Township Treasurer for several terms.

LAWRENCE L. LEHMAN, teacher, Versailles, ( )hio. Jacob, his father, is a native of Ohio, born in Covington, Miami Co., on the 1st of January, 1825 ; he received a good common-school education ; celebrated his marriage with Jemima Sullenberger, on the 25th day of November, 1851 ; he came to Darke Co. in 1856, and at present resides in Versailles ; they are the parents of thirteen children, of whom nine are living, viz., Maggie A., Eugene, Columbus, Oliver H., Luella, Morrie, Addie L., Mary and Lawrence L., the subject of our sketch, who was born in Miami Co., Ohio, in 1852 ; received his preparatory education in the common schools, after which he entered the Ohio Central Normal School, in Worthington, Ohio, from which he graduated in 1874, receiving a good academic education ; he taught school when he was only 16 years old, thereby helping to support the family, it being very large ; he is at present reading law with T. A. Burns, of Versa i 1 les

WASHINGTON LONG; farmer, Sec. 17; P. O.Versailles. Stephen Long, the father of Washington, was born in Kentucky, on the 8th day of August, 1798, and emigrated to Miami Co., Ohio, in the year 1806, where he farmed for a period of about twenty-eight years ; moved to Darke Co., Wayne Township, Sec. 17, where he resided till his death, which occurred on the 29th day of December, 1854. Sarah, his wife, died on the 27th day of December, 1871, on the old home farm. Washington hong, the subject of this sketch, was born in Miami Co., Ohio, on the 15th day of October, .1823 ; came with his parents to Darke Co. in the year 1834, where he has continued to reside ever since ; he worked on the farm till he arrived at the years of his majority ; however, in the mean time attending the district school, obtaining a good common-school education ; went before the Board of Examiners, obtained a certificate, and taught his first school when only 22 years of age, now thirty-four years ago, receiving for his labor the enormous salary of $10 per month; continued to teach during the winter months, working on the farm in the summer, for a period of about eleven years, with good success, giving entire satisfaction wherever he taught. Mr. Long is quite an active worker in the cause of religion and temperance, being a member of the Christian Church for a period of about twenty years ; his religious impressions were mainly due to his mother, who was a pious, thrifty and hard-working woman, given to saving, and devoted to her family. His father was a minister of the Gospel, being a regular ordained minister of the Christian Church. Versailles, at that time, contained only about three families ; the settlement was then called Jacksonville. Mr. Long is not in any sense of the term an office-seeker, yet he has held various offices much of the time during his residence in Darke Co., viz. Township Trustee, Assessor, and m the fall of 1879, was a candidate on the Democratic ticket for Representative of the Twelfth Congressional District to the State Legislature, and was elected by an overwhelming majority ; has many warm friends, and is beloved by all who know him - has by his industry, and the help of his good and amiable wife, accumulated a considerable amount of property. Mr. Long has been married twice ; first, to Miss Susan M. Lyons, on the 1st day of May, 1862 ; one child was born to them, viz Joseph N., born on the 19th day of December, 1862 ; Susan M. Long departed this life on the 27th day of December, 1 862. After a period of four years he married Miss Polly Brewer, the nuptials being celebrated on the 16th day ot October 1866 ; she was born in Darke Co., Ohio, on the 6th day of December, 1832. Elizabeth Brewer, her mother, was born on the 24th day of August, 1806 ; she departed this life on the 24th day of July, 1864 ; two children were the result of his second marriage, viz. : Ellen J. was born on the 23d day of July, 186 7; the other was not named - died in infancy. When Mr. Long came to Wayne Township there were but three families living in Jacksonville, now Versailles, there being only about ten acres of cleared land on the tract ; he now has 200 acres, valued at $50 per acre.

LEONARD MARKER, furniture dealer and undertaker, Versailles. Kaymon J the father of Leonard, was a native of Ohio, born in Montgomery Co. on the 29th of \uo-ust 1824. He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Backman in Dayton, Ohio, in April, 1845 ; in 1850, he with his little family, moved to Darke Co locating on the west bank of Swamp Creek, opposite Bower s old mill, where he resided till his death, which occurred in 1855, being only 31 years old ; his wife preceded him about ten months, being only 29 years of age ; Mr. Marker althouoh a young man when he died, had accumulated considerable amount ot property and was known as being strictly honest, industrious and a square-dealing citizen, filling several offices of trust, being Justice of the Peace of the township in which he lived ; he was one of a little band of about twenty who organized Versailles Lodge, No. 286, I. 0. 0. E., being a charter member and one of the principal officers of the lodge when he died ; he was buried by the order m the oeautiful little cemetery just south of Brock, in this county, where a handsome monument marks the resting-place of himself and wife ; he sank peacefully to rest beloved and honored by all who knew him. Leonard, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Ohio, born in Montgomery Co. on the 9th of June, 1846. and at the age of 4 years was taken with his parents to Darke Co., and at the age ot 9 he with two brothers and a sister, all younger than himself, were left orphans thrust upon the cold charities of the world ; but here the fraternity which had watched over and cared for their father was at hand, and good homes were provided for them all, and Leonard was taken by an uncle to Montgomery Co., with whom he lived until he was 19 years old, when he commenced the furniture trade in Versailles, Ohio, as an apprentice boy, and at the age of 21, in 1868, launched out in the furniture and undertaking business on his own resources ; tor several years adversity stared him in the face, but with an indomitable will and that stern, "never <nve up" which characterizes him, he pressed on and surmounted many difficulties, and is now doing a good, lucrative business ; in connection with his increasing furniture trade, he has a fine hearse, and, with all the modern appliances he is continually coming in possession of for the taking care and putting away the dead, he is becoming the leading undertaker of northern Darke Co.: he is comfortably located in his new and commodious rooms on East Mam street ; m the spring of 1869, he celebrated his marriage with Miss E. Gertie Reed, daughter ot James H. Reed, of Versailles ; they have a family of three children, viz., Eugenie Grace James Reed. Maud. Mr. Marker has filled several offices of trust in his community ; he is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, also of Versailles Lodge, No. 286, I. O. 0. P., of which his father was a charter member ; he has taken all the higher degrees of the encampment, and has several times filled the honorable office of the D. D. Grand Patriarch of the Encampment.

MARTIN MARKER, farmer and stock-raiser ; Sec. 13 ; P. 0. Versailles, Ohio. George, his father, was a native of Maryland, horn in Frederick Co., on the 19th of June, 1782 ; he emigrated to Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1823, where he resided till his death, which occurred on the 29th of November, 1850. Margaret, his wife, died in Preble Co., Ohio, at the advanced age of 84 years. Martin, the subject of this sketch, is one of the old settlers of Darke Co., being a native of Maryland, born in Frederick Co.. on the 15th of June, 1815 ; came with his parents to Montgomery Co., Ohio, when he was about 7 years old, where he spent his boyhood days on his father's farm ; he received his education in the subscription schools of Montgomery Co. On the 30th of May, 1837, he celebrated his marriage, in Montgomery Co., with Margaret Weaver, who is a native of Ohio, born in Montgomery Co., on the 18th of January. 1818 ; shortly after his marriage, he rented a farm, on which he remained about two years, when he took a lease in Butler Township, Darke Co., but only remained six months, when he moved on a tract of land in York Township, consisting of 94 acres, which his father-in-law gave him in lieu of $100 ; he erected a log cabin and began the laborious task of opening up a farm ; he cleared and put under cultivation about 40 acres. He traded his farm for a saw and flouring mill, known as the " John Hole Mill," which he operated about ten years, but, accidentally, was forced into a law-suit, in which he lost almost the entire property. He then leased 70 acres in York Township for three years, and, in a short time, he purchased the tract for $600, paying $10 down, which was every cent that he possessed ; but, at the expiration of the three years, he had paid out. He then purchased 80 acres more, paying $400, and, in a few 3'ears, he erected a brick house and cleared 60 acres. In 1850, he sold out to his brother Raymond for $1,700 ; he then purchased 164 acres, where he now resides. In 1863, he sold out, and purchased 240 acres in Cedar Co., Iowa, where he moved, and, in a short time, he added 280 acres more, making in all 520 acres, 120 of which was timber land. In 1866, he sold the entire body, at a gain of nearly $6,000 ; he then removed to Darke Co., on the old farm, the party failing to pay for it, where he has continued to reside ever since ; he erected a bank-barn, 70x40 feet, at a cost of $2,500, also a very large two-story brick house, and raised an orchard of 300 bearing fruit-trees ; the farm contains 164 acres, valued at $16,000. He has given his children, in lands and money, about $11,000, all of which he and his good and amiable wife have accumulated by their hard labor, having passed through the many struggles, trials and dangers so common to the pioneer of the West. They have been members of the Lutheran Church for upward of forty-five years. Mr. Marker has had his full share of township offices since his residence in the county, viz. : In 1851, he was elected District Assessor, he platted and appraised the lands in five townships, viz., Wayne, Richland, York, Wabash and Patterson, which lie performed in 102 days, receiving a compensation of $204 ; his work was received with universal satisfaction by the people ; he is also known as the best and most successful auctioneer in the county. He relates many thrilling incidents of his early life in Darke Co., which the writer would have been pleased to mention, but, for the want of space, had to omit. Margaret, his wife, should have special mention for her heroic deeds, as she has shared the storms as well as the calms, the joys as well as the sorrows ; she is the mother of eleven children, of whom nine are living, viz. : Lovina S., born Feb. 12, 1838 ; Martin V. June 27, 1841 ; Mary, March 27.1843; Emanuel, Sept. 12,1845; Martha J., May 25, 1851; Luciuda and Malinda (twins), March 12, 1855 ; Josiah, March 28, 1858; Amanda, Nov. 9, 1872.

WILLIAM H. MURPHY, banker and lumber dealer, of the firm of Kusnick, Murphy & Co., Versailles, Ohio ; was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, on the 6th dav Of September, 1818 ; he lived with his grandmother until her death which occurred in the year 1831 ; worked on the farm by the month and day for different persons performing all kinds of labor until he was about 17 years old, when he commenced to learn the carpenter's trade, continuing at the same for a period ot about eio-ht years, meeting with good success, after which he sold out, and engaged in farming till the year 1862, when he sold his farm, and moved to Covington, Ohio, and eno-ao-ed in the grocery and provision trade, which he followed for about oneyear - heathen removed to Wayne Township, where he purchased a farm, in Sec. 19 near the corporation of Versailles ; farmed, and carried on the hardware business in Versailles ; sold his farm and continued the hardware business for a period of about six years, with fair success ; sold out his store and connected himself with the bank on the 1st of January, 1878, with Francis Kusnick ; since having added the lumber business - which is the only lumber-yard in Versailles ; Mr. Murphy was left an orphan, being thrust out in the cold world to fight the battles of life alone which he has braved through with unflinching nerve, gaining the victory, and is now reaping the reward of a handsome fortune, which he has accumulated by his own hard labor ; he obtained a good common-school education. He has in no sense of the word been a political aspirant, although he has had his full share of township offices ; while living in Miami Co., he served one term as Justice of the Peace ; also served as Township Trustee two years ; and in Wayne Township, where he now resides, has held the office of Justice of the Peace for a period of nine years, and is now serving his fourth term ; and two years as Township Trustee, and Township Treasurer one year ; he is a live, energetic, thorough business man, and is beloved by all who know him. The Squire has passed the many struggles, incidents and dangers so common to the early pioneers of the great West, and is to-day hardy and robust at the ripe old age of 62 ; was an active member of the Christian Church at the breaking out of the great rebellion, when he withdrew from the church. Was united in marriage to Miss Mary Sipe on the 7th day of January. 1838 - thirteen children were the fruits of this union, viz.: Catharine, born Oct. 3 1838 ; Leander, March 12, 1840 ; Sarah, April 19, 1841 ; Simon, Sept. 15. 1842 ; Angeline, April 1, 1844 ; John, May 10, 1845 ; William H.. June 19 1847 ; Mary M Nov 20 1849 ; Ellen, Aug. 4, 1851 ; Esther, March 27, 1853 ; Elizabeth, Sept. 26' 1855 ; Susan, Aug. 21, 1857 ; Joseph, Aug. 6, 1860. Mary, his wife, died Sept, 30' 1862 - was united in marriage to Mrs. Mary Arnold (whose maiden name was Thompson), on the 8th day of February, 1864 ; she was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio on the 8th day of July, 1823. Leander, his eldest son, who lived four miles southeast of Columbia City, Ind., went to see a neighbor, on some business, who lived about three-quarters of a mile off, and has never been heard of since ; this was on the night of the 4th of December, 1866 ; it seems that he had some difficulty with the gentleman, the facts of which could not be obtained ; it is supposed that he was murdered ; his father received a letter from him on the same day. stating that he was well, and getting along very well, and, in three or four days after, Mr. Murphy received a letter from Leander s cousin, conveying the sad news that 'his son had very suddenly disappeared, and could not be found ; he left all his effects at home, or the place where he was working.

WILLIAM H. RIKE, physician, Versailles. Henry, his father, was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1822 ; he married Rebecca Dowler, who was born in Miami Co., Ohio, in 1824. William H., the subject of this sketch, was born in Miami Co., Ohio, on a farm, Dec. 3, 1850; he assisted his father on the farm during the summer months^ and attended the district school in the winter, obtaining a good common-school education, and at the age of 19 he entered the Piqua school, where he finished his literary education ; he then taught school for a period of four years, in the mean time studying medicine under the instructions of Dr. J. Harrison, of Covington, Ohio ; he graduated at the Ohio Medical College. March, 2, 1876. and immediatelv thereafter, took up his residence in Versailles, for the purpose of following his profession; he now has a good, lucrative practice. He celebrated his marriage, in 1876, with Emma V. Fetter, in Miami Co., Ohio, who was horn Sep). 9, 1851 ; one child has been born to this union, viz., Venus Blanche, born August 15, 1878.

ADO LI Ml SEIBT, merchant, Webster. F. T. Seibt, the father of Adolph, was born in Bautzen, Saxony, Germany, in the year 1804 ; he emigrated to America, landing in New York, in the year 1830 ; went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and enlisted in a company of traders, known as the " Hudson Bay Company," whose business was to obtain furs from the Indians ; served about eighteen months ; this was in the year 1832. Mr. Seibt, while a single man, and after he was mustered out of the company, traveled through the country fixing watches and clocks, and it was while he was engaged in this business, that he met Miss Erdmute Schmidt, at a farmer's house ; it was then that the law of affinity asserted her divine right, and they were united in marriage in a short time ; he moved to Darke Co., Ohio, where Webster now stands, but at that time a wilderness ; this was in the year 1836 ; erected a storeroom in the course of time, and engaged in the dry-goods business, etc., which he followed till his death, which occurred on the 14th day of October, 1874 ; was married in the year 1836. Mr. Seibt was Postmaster in Webster for a period of twenty years. Adolph, the subject of this sketch, was born in Webster, on the 18th day of August, 1847 ; he lived with his parents, working on the farm during the summer season, and attended the district school in the winter months, till he was about 20 years old, when he attended the Commercial College of Dayton, Ohio, for three months. Mr. Seibt has made one trip to Germany, remaining two years, during which time he attended the grammar school of the city of Bautzen, obtaining a g< i' id education ; returned home, and at the death of his father, he took charge of the store, and stocked it throughout with an entire new stock, and commenced business on his own responsibility, where he has continued to operate ever since, with a full line of dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, etc. ; was united in marriage to Miss Maggie E. Battie, in Darke Co., Ohio, on the 25th day of May. 1871 ; she was born in Darke Co. on the 20th da}^ of October, 1844 ; they have had five children, viz.: Christiana, born March 17, 1872; Loranda, Oct. 25, 1874; Ida, Aug. 6. 1878 ; Willie F., Aug. 10, 1879. Mr. Seibt has a great many friends, and is beloved by all who know him ; his mother, Christiana, was born in Bautzen. Saxony. Germany, on the 24th day of December 1810; she lives with her son, Adolph ; is 69 years old, and is enjoying good health.

JOHN S. SIMON, merchant, Versailles. George S. Simon, the father of John S., came to this country at a very early day, and settled at Versailles in the year 1839, where he has continued to reside ever since. John S.. the subject of this sketch, was born in Versailles. Ohio, July 27, 1847 ; assisted his father in the store when but a very small boy. in fact, was brought up behind the counter: attended the village school during the winter season, in which he obtained a good common-school education ; clerked for his father in the store for seventeen j*ears, applying himself very closely to business. After this the entire stock was transferred to him. when he commenced business for himself, continuing up to the pre.-- <".:- time, and he lias, by his strictly temperate habits and industry, accumulated quite a huge fortune. He carries a very large stock of gents' furnishing goods and ready-made clothing, lie was united in marriage to Miss Amanda J. Brush, in Versailles, April 15. 1867, who was horn in Lockington, Shelby Co., Ohio. July 2,1850. Two children are the fruits of this union, viz. : <i.\Y. Harry, born <)cT 14, 1867 : Maggie P., Jan. -'!!. 1875- Mr. Simon has never been a political aspirant although he has held many offices of trust : he was elected Township Clerk when only 22 years of age, serving three years with much credit to himself: was elected Justice of the Peace October, 1874, re-elected in 1877, being the youngest Justice of the Peace ever elected in Versailles : was elected Mayor in the spring (^f 1879, which office he now holds : he has also been a member of the School Board for six years. Mr. Simon has many warm friends, and is esteemed by all who know him.

L. M. STEVENSON, teacher, Versailles, Ohio. Samuel W. Stevenson, the father of L. M., was born in the city of Belfast, Ireland, Oct., 24, 1809 ; his father. Anthony, was keeper of the King's Cheque on Duties and Customs. His mother, Sarah, was a descendant of Sir John Cornwall, whose daughter married a French exile, named La Waie, a Huguenot, who had to fly for his life during the religious revolts in his native country, and crossed the channel, landing in Ireland, where he made his home for the remainder of his life. He made the acquaintance of Sir John Cornwall, while shooting birds in a small strip of timber belonging to the estate, known as Edendork, about one mile northwest of the town of Dungamour. County Tyrone, Ireland, and about eigbt miles south of that beautiful body of water, Lough Neagh) ; his parents being all Protestants, he received his early religious instructions in the creed of the established Church of England, and, in his early training, had inculcated the hereditary hatred of the Papists so common on the Island, where but two parties are known, the Papists and the Protestants, the latter »eing generally known as the " Orangemen," from William, Prince of Orange. Samuel W., like so mamT boys brought up in such close relationship with marine life, formed a great desire to be a sailor, and have his home on the mighty deep ; so strong did the desire become, that, at the early age of 14, he left school and apprenticed himself to a sea-captain, for the purpose of becoming a sailor and navigator. The choice of office had been veiy suitable, and so well did he conduct himself, that he gained the confidence of the commander, and, before the first voyage was completed, he was promoted to second mate, which office he filled with credit to himself, and was promoted to first mate. His first voyage was made to Cronstadt, Stockholm, thence up the Baltic Sea to St. Petersburg, Russia. The second was to cross the Atlantic with a miscellaneous cargo to the United States, in which branch of the service he remained until October, 1829, having landed first at Pictora, Nova Scotia, on the 9th of July ; during the night between October 31 and November 1, he was shipwrecked near Eastport, Me., from where he arrived at Quebec, July 2, 1830 ; at this time he was engaged in the shipment of timber, and on the 10th of July, while loading his vessel, he fell from the rigging to the deck, receiving such severe injuries as to prevent him going to sea afterward ; he was placed in the Marine hospital at Quebec, known as the Sailors' Hospital, where he remained until he so far recovered from his injuries as to be able to again earn a livelihood ; during the time of his illness he heard from home, but. as an estrangement had arisen between him and his father, he determined not to return home until he could own and command a vessel of his own ; being, however, prevented from going on in his chosen vocation, he never accomplished his purpose : immediately after leaving the hospital he went witli a party to the <; front," as it was called, to cut and prepare ship-timber, with a contractor named Raney. in whose employ he remained one year ; thinking he could now improve his condition he quit with "the contractor who tried to defraud him of his year's earnings ; from this a vexatious lawsuit arose, which lasted for three years, but was finally decided in his favor, and the contractor was compelled to pay the amount due : having obtained his money, he started again, but was prostrated at Rochester, N. Y., for nearly a year by sickness, and was able to go to work with only 50 cents in his pocket ; his determination never wavered ; he started in search of something to do, and found it with a civil engineer named Col. Hovey. with whom he remained for some time, and left his employer with mutual regret, the Colonel saying. " You think the great El Dorado is Ohio ; " this remark at once decided him that, be his fortune what it might, he never would come back in a worse condition financially than he then was, and if his condition was better he did not wish to return : putting his purpose into execution, he arrived at Oswego. N. Y. Sept. 5. Is:;."), where he remained for some time, obtaining and finishing several contracts of a canal then being contracted for ; his desire to go to Ohio being paramount to all else, he left New York, and arrived in Shelby County, Ohio, some time in 1838 or 1839 ; the canal extending from Cincinnati to

Toledo being in process of construction, he obtained a contract from Jesse yfcClure ; he again went to ditching, in the prosecution of which he so injured his health by exposure that he could work no longer physically ; he then, by the solicitation of his friends, began to teach school ; having full}' determined to make the United States his home, he filed his intentions in the Court of Shelby County. Ohio, on the !>th of November, 1839, and in 1842 received his certificate of citizenship ; having once entered upon the vocation of teaching, he was so successful that he could not withdraw, and his services were in continual demand ; he became somewhat engaged in local politics, serving for several terms as Clerk of Cynthiaua Township, and was finally brought out as a candidate for the office of Auditor of Shelby Count}' ; in this he was defeated by only six votes. On the 24th day of December, 1841, he married Mary Ann McClelland, by whom he had two sons ; the elder, Alexander Finley, was born Sept 4, 1842 ; and the younger, Leander Montgomery, April 12, 1845. After his marriage, he tried farming, but could not make it a success, and finally abandoned it altogether. On the 27th of July, 1847, his wife died, and he was again cast out upon the world. Leaving his two children with their grandfather, he opened a school in Sidney, Shelby Co.. which he taught with his usual success, and at the close of the term he engaged with Mr. McGrew to run his line of boats from Sidney to Cincinnati until the freezing up of the canal, but trade became so depressed and freight so light that he released Mr. McGrew from the contract after making two trips to Cincinnati. Again becoming a pedagogue, he opened and taught a school in Wapakoneta. the present county seat of Auglaize Co., closing his school in September, 1849. He was then called to Houston, Shelby Co., to take charge of the school there, and in the spring of 1850 he entered a piece of land in Shelby Co., lying about four miles east of Berlin. He now resumed teaching during the winter, and in the summer he cleared his land. May 15, 1851, he married Mary Ellen, the second and only living daughter of Mr. William English, of Wayne Township, Dai-ke Co. He now began to keep house a second time, and during the winter he taught the school near Speer's landing, on the Laramie, about two miles east of Houston, removing in May, 1852, to his " home in the woods," where he remained until September, when he was again called to take charge of the school at Wapakoneta and to act as County Examiner. To his great surprise, he found the same figures on the blackboard that he had placed there in 1849. He now gave up the project of clearing his farm and gave his whole attention to teaching, serving in this capacity at Hardin, Shelby Co.; Morant, Jefferson Co., and Versailles, Darke Co., Ohio, from which place he removed May 1, 1856, to Covington, Miami Co., where he had purchased a small property. There he remained seven years, and began to accumulate some wealth, purchasing property in the town, now owned and occupied by D. C. Shellabarger. This, with his little farm, he exchanged for what was known as the " Two Mile House," on the Covington and Gettysburg Pike, two miles west of Covington. In March, 1864, he sold out and removed to Versailles, Darke Co., purchasing a farm about two miles northwest of the town, where he resided until Nov. 7, 1872, when he again removed to Hill Grove, near Union City, Ind., where he took charge of the flouring mill, for which he had exchanged his farm. He remained here until June 7, 1873, when he again returned to Versailles and lived with his younger son until his death. May 31, 1876. During life, he was always an upright and honest man, a fearless and uncompromising patriot, giving both his sons to the service of his country during the war. both of whom returned safe at its close. He finally sank peacefully to rest, sincerely mourned by many ; loved, honored and respected by all. Leander M. Stevenson, whose name heads this sketch, is a young man of fine address, and possesses rare abilities as an educator and instructor, and merits more than a passing notice. As will be seen in his lather's sketch, he was left an orphan while he was quite young, having passed through the man}' struggles and trials so common to those that have been left without the instructions of a loving mother ; but being of the same turn of mind as his father, to dispel the dark clouds that would gather around him, and keeping the motto steadily in view, "No excellence without labor," he has come oft more than conqueror, acquiring a good academic education by his own exertion ; the writer of this article can truthfully say that he is strictly a self-made man, and deserves a wider notice than the writer can possibly give on account of space and ability. When he was 18 years old, he enlisted in the army and went forth in defense of his country, giving two years of his life in hard-fought battles and long and dreary marches ; when he returned home he entered the " Iron City College, " from which he graduated in April, 1866 ; he also took a course in telegraphy ; in April, 1879, he made a visit to Ireland and England. On the 1st of May, 1873, he celebrated his marriage with Mary McKnight, who is a native of Ohio, born in Darke County, on the 24th day of September, 1855 ; in September, 1873, he was called and appointed Superintendent of the High School of Versailles, Ohio, where he taught two years with good success, during which time he wrote out an entire course&of study for the school, which injured his health so that he was compelled to relinquish teaching for two years. Three children have been born to this union, viz. : Sir Harcourt Lee, born Jan. 30, 1874 (he was named in honor of the editor and publisher of the Brunswick Club, the only Protestant paper in Belfast at that time ) ; Edith J., born 2d of October, 1875 ; Susannah, died Dec. 5, 1878.

G. W. HOLLIS, Postmaster, Versailles ; son of J. J. and Sarah Hollis ; was born in Virginia, 1824; settled in this county, 1857. Was married to Lucinda Osgood of Frankfort, Hampshire Co., Va., 1850 ; one child, Charles J.

ALFERD MONGEVILLE ; P. 0. Versailles ; son of Gerard and Mary Margaret Mongeville ; was born in Darke County, 1850. Was united in marriage with Ella Yates, of Versailles.

W. H. STOVER, merchant, Versailles ; son of William and Elizabeth Stover ; was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, in 1849 ; settled in this township, 1875. Was united in marriage with Lucinda Hole, in Versailles, in 1874 ; three children - Maggie Belle, Harvey Gary, Isaiah. _

G. W. STUDABAKER, attorney-at-law, Versailles. The subject of this memoir is a native of Ohio, born in Darke County, three miles south of Greenville, on the 23d day of September, 1840 ; spent his boyhood days on the farm, assisting his father in the cultivation of the soil; the plow, spade and ax were implements to which he was no stranger ; he spent the winter months in attending the district school, where he obtained a good common-school education. On the 8th day of Mav, 1854, unfortunately his father died, leaving a widowed mother and five children to survive the storms of life, without the parental instructions of a father. In 1857, he became infatuated with what was then known as the " Kansas fever " - to " go West and grow up with the country ; ' he in company with Jacob Rees, E. Calkins and Allen Jaqua, left on the 2d day of March for the " Far West," and upon their arrival found the people divided on the subject of slavery, and during the Kansas trouble he became strongly opposed to the extension of slavery, and embraced the principles then advocated by the Republican party, and became a Radical in the true sense of the term, always found advocating the abolition of slavery, until the great rebellion put an end to the controversy In 1865, he commenced the study of law, under the instructions of A R Calderwood, at Greenville, Ohio, and in October, 1871. passed an examination before the Supreme Court of Columbus, Ohio, after which he was regularly admitted as an attorney and counselor at law ; he then opened a law office in Versailles, Ohio, where he has since lived and practiced his profession ; and by his close application to his office, and strict attention to business consigned to his management, he has gained a large and lucrative practice throughout the county in which he resides, as well as abroad ; and, as an advocate before a jury, in presenting his side of the case, he has no equal ; his natural ability seems to be adapted for the profession of his own solicitation ; it can truly be said of him that he is a self-made man, being strictly temperate in all his habits. On the 11th day of May, 1875, he assisted A. R. Calderwood in the establishment of the Greenville Sunday Courier, a weekly newspaper which has a wide circulation. Mr. Studabaker has been identified with the county and township offices since his residence ; in the spring of 1873, he was elected to the office of Mayor in Versailles, which office he held for six consecutive years, during which time the village grew and prospered ; he is also the President of the School Board ; in the fall of 1875. he was chosen by the Republican party as a candidate for State Senator, the district being composed of the counties of Darke, Shelby and Miami ; the district gives about 1,800 Democratic majority, but he was only defeated by about 1,000. which shows his popularity throughout the district ; in April, 1861, he enlisted in Co. K. 11th O. V. I., Col. J. W. Fraizell commanding the regiment.

DAVID W. TAYLOR, farmer, Sec. 17 ; P. 0. Versailles, Ohio. Joseph Taylor, his father, was born in Virginia on the 2d clay of May, 1783 ; Elizabeth, his wife, was born in Virginia, on the 5th of November, 1789 ; they emigrated to Washington Co., Ohio ; thence to Darke Co., Ohio, in the fall of 1833. and in the following spring located in Wayne Township on Sec. 17, where they resided until his death, which occurred on the 27th day of July, 1842, by falling from a load of hay, breaking his neck, causing instant death. Elizabeth, his wife, departed this life on the old home farm, on the 23d day of February, 1867, at the advanced age of 78 years. David W., the subject of this sketch, was born in Washington Co., Ohio, on the 12th day of January, 1825 ; lived with his parents until their death, working on the farm during the summer season, and attending the district school in the winter months, in an old log cabin, with puncheon floor and poles for seats ; obtained a fair common-school education. Mr. Taylor was a kind and obedient son, taking the best of care of his parents, receiving the old home farm for his services rendered, which contained 100 acres, to which he has added 50 acres, making in all, 150, of which 120 are being under a good state of cultivation, and 30 acres of timber land : he has, by his industry and frugality, accumulated a considerable amount of property ; he has passed through the many struggles, dangers, trials and incidents so common to the early settlers of Darke Count}' ; is a member of the Christian Church, living a devoted and consistent Christian for a period of about fifteen years ; is a firm Republican. Mr. Taylor has been married twice ; first, to Miss Hannah Brandon, Feb. 8, 184G-; three children by this union, of whom two are living, viz.: Lydia E. (now Mrs. Christian), born Nov. 17. lS4ti : Mary A., born April 28, 1848. His second marriage was to Miss Elizabeth Ward, on the 15th day of April, 1852 ; she was born in Versailles, Ohio, on the 21st day of November, 1832. Eleven children by this union, of whom nine arc living, viz.: Hannah, born Dee, 21, 1854; Joseph, April 10, 185(3 ; Hester, Nov. 30, 1857 ; Joseph II., Nov. 27. L859 ; Margaret, Nov. 11, 1862; William C, Dec. 19, 1863; Thomas J., died in infancy; David born Nov. 5, 1869 ; John T.. Aug. 25, 1S72 : Olive E., Jan. 31, 1 S78 ; George W. deceased. Hannah Creviston (her maiden name), the mother of Elizabeth Taylor, was born in Ohio, on the 5th day of October, 1811. Mrs. David Taylor is a member of the Christian Church, is a good and kind mother, devoted to her family.

JOHN C TILLMA'N, physician and surgeon, Versailles, Ohio. Joshua. the father of John ('.. is a native of Ohio, horn in Preble Co. in IS2I ; Cynthia M.. his wife, whose maiden name was Estabrook, is a native of .Massachusetts, born in 1822; they resided in Preble Co., Ohio, on a farm and are the parents of ei children, of whom three are living, viz.: Mollie, Lizzie and John ('.: the subject of this sketch. who is a native of Ohio, horn in Preble Co. on the 17th day of September 1850; he received his preparatory education in the districl schools of Preble Co., and completed his course of study in Dayton, Ohio, where he obtained a good academic education : the Doctor is no stranger to the use of all farming implements e was raised on the farm, hut being of a scientific turn of mind he concluded to enter another field of labor, and luckily for him he chose the study and practice of medicine, which is the most comprehensive branch of the whole curriculum of nature ; and at the age of 23 he entered the office of Drs. D. Robison and John Ford of Arcanum, Ohio, and commenced the study of medicine, and in the spring of 1877 he graduated at the Ohio Medical College ; during the same spring he opened an office in Dawn, Darke Co., where he remained till fall, and on the 5th of August, 1877, he moved to Versailles, where he formed a partnership with Dr. J. P. Gordon', whose sketch appears in another place in this work ; the Doctor has quite an extensive practice, and is highly esteemed by his many friends and acquaintances. On the 25th of November, 1879, he celebrated his marriage with Estella Sweigart, an accomplished daughter of Henry and Mary A. Sweigart, who is a native of Ohio born in December, 1858 ; the Doctor is strictly temperate in all his habits.

GEORGE H. TURPEN; merchant, Versailles. Henry, the father of George H. was born in Dutchess Co., N. Y., on the 16th of November, 1775 ; he married Mary Hubbard, a native of Connecticut, born in Middletown, on the 16th of April, 1780 ; they resided in New York City for a period of eleven years, and in 1819, came to Ohio, locating in Warren Co., near Lebanon, where he remained till 1828, when he moved to Darke Co., locating in what was then called Hunter's Settlement, four miles north of Greenville, which at that time was almost an entire wilderness by perseverance, economy, integrity and hard labor, he opened out a nice farm ; he raised a large family, and on the 10th of May, 1839, he departed this life, being 64 years old. Mary, his wife, died on the 13th of September, 1838. Georo-e H, the subject of this sketch, is a native of York State, born in the city of New York, on the 7th of October, 1813 ; came with his parents to Ohio, when he was only 6 years old ; received his education in the common schools ; Mr. Turpen is one of Darke Co.'s old pioneers, and has passed through the many struo-o-les trials, clangers and incidents so common to the pioneer of the West. He married Margaret White, who was born May 1, 1819 ; she died on the 26th of March 1835 ; he celebrated his second marriage with Anna Pugh, who is a native of Ohio born Sept. 26, 1816 ; he is the father of ten children, of whom five are living viz John Henry, born Dec. 14, 1838 ; Mary Ann, born Sept. 30, 1840 ; Joseph Connel, born May 5, 1849 ; Ancel Hubbard, born Feb. 8, 1851 ; Lucy Bell, born Dec. 25, 1858; deceased - Sarah Amanda, William M., Cordelia C, Margaret, George Alonzo.

J T WARD, grocer, Versailles ; son of George and Hannah \\ ard ; was born in Versailles' Darke Co., Sept. 28, 1847. Was married in Versailles to P V Simons, 1871 ; children - Marvin, Mary and Louis Oliver.

J. C. WILLIAMSON, physician, Versailles ; son of David and Elizabeth (McGrew) Williamson ; was born in Greenville Township, Darke Co. ; parents settled here in 1816. Was united in marriage with Rachel Reed, of Versailles, in 1872 ; one child. Olive Addrela Ella.

J J. WINBIGLER, teacher, Versailles, Ohio. Samuel Winbigler, the father of J J was born in Maryland, near Frederick City, January, 1817 ; emigrated to Montgomery Co., Ohio, in the year 1831 ; remaining there till the year 1844, when he moved to Darke Co., where he resided till his death, which occurred May 4, 1875 ; Anna M. Weaver, his wife, was born in Montgomery Co., near Miamisburg, Feb. 13, 1821 - is still living, beina; 68 years old ; her mother, Susan Weaver, whose maiden name 'was Gephart°was born in Berks Co., Penn., October, 1795 ; and is still living at the advanced age of 84. Elizabeth, her mother, who departed this life in 1864, was 95 years and 7 days old ; had at the time of her death, 90 grandchildren living, 310 great grandchildren, and 28 of the fourth generation. J. J. Wmbigler, the' subject of this sketch was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, on the 25th day of May, 1839 ; lived with his parents till he was 21 years old, working on the farm during the summer season, and attending the district school in the winter. He also attended a select school six months at Jaysville, and three months at Beamsville, obtaining a good common-school education. In 1862, he enlisted in the S8th O. V. I. Co. D,°for&three years, performing garrison duty was mustered out of duty on the 3d day of July. 1 805 ; returned home and taught school for a period of two years, after which he bought an interest in a saw-mill, which he operated for about 3 years ; sold out and has since followed his profession, teaching during the fall and winter months, and canvassing in the summer. Mr. Winbigler has many warm friends, and is highly esteemed by all who know him ; has never been a political aspirant, although he has had his full share of township offices ; was Township ( Jlerk of York for two terms, and one term as Assessor ; was elected Assessor of Wayne Township in the spring of 1879 ; is a firm Democrat. Was united in marriage to Miss Susan A. Lyons on the 2d day of October, 1865 ; four children were the fruits of this union, of whom three are living, viz. : John S., was born on the 29th day of May, 1867 ; Armenia J., born on the 9th day of December, 1868 ; Harry F.. born on the 21st day of November, 1873 ; Willie L., born on the 19th day of September, 1869 ; died on the 17th day of September 1870.

SAMUEL M.WOODS, retired farmer; Sec. 21 ; P. 0. Versailles. Henry Woods, the father of Samuel M., was born in Virginia in the year 1789 ; Jane, his wife, was born in Virginia in the year 1790 ; Mr. Woods emigrated to Hamilton, Co., ( Hrio. in the year 1814, remaining there but three years, after which he moved to Preble Co., only remaining there a short time, moving to Darke Co., Harrison Township, in the year 1825, remained there eight years, after which he came to Wayne Township, where he remained till his death, which occurred on the 3d day of December, 1853 ; Jane, his wife, departed this life on the 13th day of May, 1841. Samuel M. Woods, the subject of this sketch, was born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, on the 9th day of June, 1817 ; lived with his parents and attended the district school till he was about 12 years old, after which he went with his parents to Darke Co.. Wayne Township, on the banks of Stillwater, where he only attended school about six months, there being no public schools in reach, and not a sufficient number of pupils in the settlement to support a subscription school, and a hard difficulty to obtain a building suitable for the purpose ; but by his own exertions has obtained a fair education. Wayne Township, at that time, being almost an entire wilderness ; lived there with his parents, helping to clear and open up a farm till the year 1846, after which he moved northwest of Webster, on the Huddle tract, in the same township, living there for about two years ; moving on the Mio farm in the same township, remaining there about three years, and in the fall of 1851. he moved on a tract of land containing 95 acres, which he bought the year previous, where he has continued to reside ever since ; there was only about 2 acres cleared, but by his strict temperate habits and hard labor, connected with the help of his good and amiable wife, he now has under a good state of cultivation about 80 acres. Mr. and .Mrs. Woods, have passed through the many struggles, dangers and incidents so common to the pioneer of the West, but with an iron will, and unflinching nerve, have gained the victory, and are now reaping the reward of a hard-earned fortune; Mr. Woods has had his full share of township offices, viz.. Trustee for a period of about fifteen years ; Supervisor. School Director, and served a term of six years as one of the' Directors of the County Infirmary : is a firm Democrat. Was united in marriage to Miss Harriet Harrison, on the* 10th day of October. 1844 ; she was born in Tennessee on the 17th day of September, L824 ; twelve children were the fruits of this union, nine of whom are living, viz.: Lewis, born Oct. 1. 1848; James, Dec. 26, 1849; Julia A.. -Jan. 10, 1852; Franklin, March 2, L854 ; Maw. April 10, 1855 ; Richard, Feb. 1."). 1857 ; Hannah. Nov. 21. 1858 : Martha, Nov. 13, 1860 ; William. Jan. 12. L863 ; Clara. May 4, 1865 : Eenry J. and Sarah .J., deceased.

C. BASTINE WORCH, of the Brandon House, Versailles, Ohio, was born in Grermany, May 17. L833 ; received a German education, after which he learned the bakery trade ; emigrated to America with his brother George, when but 20 years old; landed in New Fork Aug. 20. 1853; remained but two days in the city : went to Dayton, Ohio; took sick immediately after arriving and lay nine months ; did not have any money and could not speak a word of English ; worked on a farm in Montgomery Co., Ohio, for about three years, receiving $12.50 a month. On the 24th of December, 1857, he was united in marriage with Mary Thomas ; she was born in Germany Aug. 19, 1836 ; moved to New Madison, Darke Co., where he worked at coopering about eight years ; sold out and engaged in the mercantile and hotel business, in the same place, for about twelve years ; sold out, and moved to Greenville March 1, 1877 ; kept a boarding-house about fourteen months, with good success ; after which, he moved to Versailles, where he took charge of the "Brandon House," May 1, 1879, and is doing the largest business of any hotel in the village. Four children were the fruits of their marriage, viz.: Mary L., born March 20, 1859 ; Emma L., Jan. 14, 1861 : George H., March 16, 1863 ; R. E., May 1, 1869.

JOSEPH YODER, farmer, Sec. 5; P. 0. Versailles, Ohio ; was born in France June 5, 1807 ; lived with his parents, working on the farm during the summer and attending school during the winter months, obtaining a good commonschool education ; after arriving at his majority, commenced framing on his own responsibility, paying $400 rent per annum for 100 acres of land, and meeting with fair success; embarked for America March 19, 1833, and after a long and tedious voyage of three months - being lost at one time - landed in New York in May ; moved near Utica, N. Y., bought a farm of 20 acres, where he continued to farm for about two years, sold out and moved to Stark Co., where he resided for a period of nine years on a farm ; and, in 1844, he moved to Darke Co., Wayne Township, Sec. 5, where he has resided ever since ; he bought 80 acres first, after which he added 92 acres, but has since sold 35 acres, leaving 137 acres in a good state of cultivation ; when Mr. Yoder moved on his land, it was almost covered with water, and not an acre cleared ; he built a log cabin, covered it with clapboards and used a puncheon floor, which he split with maul and wedge out of white-oak timber : he has. by his industry, and the help of his amiable wife, accumulated a sufficient amount of this world's goods to keep them the rest of their days. Mr. Yoder has taken a very active part in politics, and has always voted the Republican ticket ; his religious impressions are mainly due to his mother, who was a pious, thrifty and hard-working woman, given to saving and devoted to her family. Was united in marriage to Miss Anna Klopenstine, in France, Oct. 5, 1829 ; she was born in France Oct. 9, 1810 ; eight children were born to them, of whom four are living, viz.: Catharine, born March 7, 1832 ; Christopher, March 1, 1835 ; John, Feb. 10, 1847 ; Mary M., July 7, 1849 ; Joseph, died Feb. 13, 1848 ; Barbria, May 18, 1852 ; Eli, Feb.*26, 1861 ; Anna, June 9, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Yoder have passed through the many struggles, incidents and dangers so common to the pioneers of the Great West, and are to-day hardy and robust, at the advanced ages of 72 and 69, an aggregate of 141 years - having shared the joys of connubial life for more than 50 years.

ABRAHAM ARNETT, farmer ; P. 0. Arcanum ; one of the settlers ot Darke Co., was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, Sept. 17, 1825, and is the son of Henr}- and Mary Arnett, natives of Pennsylvania, and removed to Montgomery Co.. when there were but three houses where the city of Dayton now stands, and resided here till 1827, when he removed to Miami Co., and settled on 160 acres of land in the green woods ; our subject assisted his father in clearing and other farm labor till his 19th year, when he began life for himself, and engaged in farming, and removed to Darke Co., at an early day and settled on a leased farm, and managed to clear up 50 acres, which he had previously purchased which he sold, and immediately bought 80 acres adjoining, cleared and improved, and again selling out he purchased 116 acres where he now lives, which is in a high state of cultivation at the present time, and has first-class buildings erected thereon. Mr Arnctt went out into the world with no capital save a resolution and determination to win, and by great industry and perseverance, in which he has been generously assisted by his industrious wife. He was united in marriage with Leah, daughter of Jacob and Susanna Friend, Sept. 12, 1844 ; her parents were natives of Maryland and afterward residents of Miami Co.; three children were given to this union, viz.; Tobias, born Jan. 27, 1846 ; Sarah A., Jan. 8, 184.*). died Dec. 5, 1860 ; Margaret, May 8, 1848, departed this life April 8, 1854. Mr. Arnett's father still lives at the advanced age of 93 years, and resides in Whitley Co., Ind. Our subject has filled the office of School Director for nine years in succession, and has been elected Clerk of the Board. Mr. and Mrs. Arnett are members of the German Baptist Church of twentyfive years' standing, and are consistent Christian people.

SAMUEL M. BAKER, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 1 ; P. 0. Arcanum. The subject of this sketch was born in Montgomery Co. in 1829, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah Baker, old residents of Montgomery Co., but natives of Somerset Co., Penn. When they removed to Montgomery Co., there .was only one little cabin in Dayton. Our subject assisted his father in the duties of the farm till his 19th year, when he began life for himself and engaged in farming. He was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of John and Elizabeth Niswonger, in July, 1849 ; nine children have been given to this union, viz.: Hollis, born April 22, 1850; Sarah lv. May 31, 1851 ; Hamilton, Oct. 25, 1853 ; Pharis, Sept. 16, 1855 ; Marv C., Jan. 23, 1858; Ezra, Feb. 23, 1860 ; Susanna, July 10, 1862; Lydia A., Jan. 28, 1865 ; Aldie M., July 1, 1867. Mr. Baker has 162 acres of as fine land as is to be found in the county, all in a good state of cultivation, with good, comfortable buildings erected thereon.

BENJAMIN BLACKBURN, deceased. The subject of this memoir is a martyr of his country. He was a son of Moses and Lydia Blackburn, and a brother of Moses and John Blackburn, whose sketches appear in this work. At his country's call, when the first wild notes of war were echoing and re-echoing over the land, young Benjamin was among the first to respond to his country's call, and volunteered in Company B, 110th 0. V. I.; he went bravely and resolutely forth to do his duty. Our informant, Mr. D. W. Niswonger, who was a member of the same regiment, speaks in glowing terms of the bravery and stability of the deceased. To the best of his recollection, he says he was in every engagement the regiment participated in, which was not a few, for the 110th bore the scars of many a well-fought and nobly contested battle, and we can fearlessly say none bore the brunt of battle or the fatigue of march better than this gallant band. In the battle of Cumberland Gap he was taken prisoner, but his fearlessness and presence of mind enabled him to make his escape. At Monocacy, on the 9th of July, 1864. he was again taken, and imprisoned at Danville, Ya., and afterward in the pens of torture and suffering at xVndersonville. He was a very robust young man, naturally cheerful, and bore up nobly under the brutish treatment he received, but hunger broke his iron will ; the filth and dirt in the prison made his quarters worse than a living tomb. He had not clothing to cover his body, nor blankets to keep him warm during the night, and not a crumb to satisfy his hunger ; for six months he withstood this terrible treatment, and during January, 1865, death came to his relief; his sufferings were ended, and the angels of mercy carried the soul of a martyr without the prison walls, but the mortal part was left and received interment where he had suffered so intensely.

.JOHN BLACKBURN, farmer and stock-raiser. The subject of this sketch was born in this township, Jan. 23, 1835, and is a son of .Moses Blackburn, who settled here about 1830, and made the first opening on this side. Our subject was reared on the farm, and assisted his father in the duties of the farm till he was 26 years of age, when he began life for himself and engaged in farming, which pur- suit he has always followed ; purchased 80 acres of land in 1871, and moved on it in 1872 ; it was mostly cleared, and his land is in good cultivation, with fair improvements ; he has since purchased 40 acres adjoining the old home place, and now owns 120 acres. He was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of Joseph and Sarah Hall, Oct. 13, 186-. Mr. and Mrs. Hall are natives of South Carolina, and came here in a very early day ; her mother died at the age of 60 years ; her father is still living and resides in this township, aged 81 years ; they were parents of sixteen children, of whom nine are living - James, John. Tamer, Eliza, Mary. Amos, Joseph, William and Ezekiel Hall. Our subject began the battle of life empty-handed, and he has, by hard work, industry and good management, with the assistance rendered by his industrious and amiable wife, succeeded in making a good home ; they are the parents of eight children, of whom seven are living - Amanda, born Dec. 8, 1861 ; Andrew J.. July 7, 1863; Lvdia A., Jan. 13, 1865; Laura Bell. Sept. 25. 1870; Harley, Aug. 17. 1872; Hezekiah, Feb. 27, 1875; Lola, July 25, 1877 ; Harvey, Feb. 9, 1867, and departed this life Oct. 13, 1871. Both Mr. and Mrs. Blackburn have been members of the Brethren of Christ Church for three years, and are exemplar}* Christian people. Mr. Blackburn only had the advantage of such education as he could procure by his own exertions. Mrs. Blackburn was born May 3, 1839. Mr. and Mrs. Hall were both born in 1809; Mrs. Hall departed this life Jan. 12, 1870; Lydia is a member of the same church ; is a co-worker with her parents in doing good, and is a very exemplary young lady.

MOSES BLACKBURN, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 21 ; P. O. Potsdam, Miami Count}'. The subject of this memoir was born on Aug. 22, 1848, and is a, son of Moses and Lydia Blackburn ; his father was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Sept. 22, 1812, and removed to Ohio in 1836, and settled on 80 acres of wild land, where he resided until his death, which occurred March 31, 1877, aged 64 years and 6 months ; his mother was born near Hamilton, Ohio, March 25, 1811 ; they were united in marriage in 1833. Mrs. Blackburn is still living, and resides on the old home place. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom six are living, viz.: Daniel, John, Sarah, William. Abner and Moses ; the deceased are Margaret, Benjamin, Elmira (died Aug. 15, 1879), Lydia, Edward and Hannah. Our subject was reared on the farm, and at the age of 15 he began life for himself, and was engaged in various pursuits until 1865, wmen he made a trip to McLean Co., 111., where he remained about one year, and then returned to Ohio ; he purchased 45 acres of land where he now resides, in October, 1873 ; he was united in marriage with Miss Mar}' E., daughter of Jacob and Martha Isenbaugh, Dec. 21, 1871 ; her parents were residents of Miami County and natives of Ohio ; her mother departed this life June 14, 1855, aged 27 years 4 months and 4 days. Mr. and Mrs. Blackburn are the parents of four children, viz.: Charley, born Nov. 19, 1873 ; George, born Oct. 10, 1875 ; Anna, born Nov. 4. 1877 ; Cora, born Aug. 24, 1872, and departed this life Aug. 26 of the same year, and Harvey, born Jan. 17, 1880. Mrs. Blackburn was born May 23, 1850 ; Mr. Izenbaugh was born May 14, 1822 ; Mrs. Izenbaugh was born Oct. 10, 1827 ; they were the parents of three children, viz.: Matilda J., Martha A. and Mary E.; his second marriage was consummated with Mary E. Knee, who was born March 22. 1836, and are the parents of six children, viz.: Joseph, now deceased, Awdine, Catherine B., Laura E., Florence M. and Jesse. Mr. and Mrs. Blackburn have been members of the Brethren-in-Christ Church for three years ; they are leading members of the church, and are exemplary Christian people. This denomination have a regular organization, just below Georgetown, of eighty visible members, and are presided over by the Rev. George Wright ; Abraham Wright, Elder ; Moses Blackburn, Deacon. Mr. Blackburn has recently purchased the east half of the David Heckman farm, 50 acres in Sec. 16, also a 5-acre lot in Sec. 21.

A. C. BOBBS, physician, now a resident of and practicing physician and surgeon in Union Township, Miami County ; was born in Clermont County in the year 1888 ; he is a son of Adam and Elizabeth Bobbs ; his father was born ho the State of Pennsylvania, his mother in this State; his father is deceased; his mother is still living, and resides in .Montgomery County ; they were parents of four children - A.J ., physician and surgeon, residing in Warren, Ind. ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. John Henderson ; and Caroline, now Mrs. Dr. Tedrow. The subject of our biography spent his boyhood days on the farm until he had arrived at the age of 15. when he began the study of medicine under Dr. J. D. Gaines, of California, Hamilton Co., this State ; for three years he labored under the instructions of Dr. Games, engaged in solving the mysteries and science of medicine ; he then entered the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, in which he studied two terms ; he then entered the army as assistant surgeon, and finally entered the marine hospital at Cincinnati, in which he remained three years, where he received a broad experience in the profession ; in 1803, he entered a college in Buffalo, N. Y., in which he finished his studies, graduating at this institution in 1864, and receiving his diploma ; he commenced the practice of medicine in Union, Miami County, in partnership with Dr. Hawkins, with whom he practiced for one year ; in 1865, he located where he now resides, and has built up a large and increasing practice, making a specialty of fevers and diphtheria. In 1861, he was married to Margaret Shellabargar, by whom he has had three children, viz., Charles C, Samuel 0. and E. A. Mrs. Bobbs is a daughter of Samuel Shellabargar, who is a native of Pennsylvania ; her mother, Elizabeth, is a native of this State ; both living. When the Doctor settled at his present location he was without means, but, by close attention to his profession, has built up a lucrative practice, and is possessed of a good property ; in 1878, he erected a residence in the village, which for taste and beauty in design and finish has no equal, in which the Doctor and his estimable wife have a desirable home ; he owns 25 acres of improved land adjoining the village.

WILLIAM L. BONHAM, retired farmer, Sec. 36 ; P. 0. Gordon ; one of the old settlers of Darke Co. ; he was born in Hunterdon Co., N. J., Feb. 12, 1815, and is a son of Ambrose and Ann Bonham, natives of the same place ; his father died in the place of his nativity, at the age of 81 years ; after his death, his wife came to Ohio, and resided with a daughter till her death, which occurred at the advanced age of 86 years ; our subject was reared on the farm, and assisted his father in agricultural pursuits till he was of age, when he began life for himself, and engaged in coopering for about fifteen }-ears, mostby in Darke Co. ; he emigrated to Ohio in 1838, and settled in Montgomery Co., seven miles below Dayton, where heresided for thi'ee years, and then came to Darke Co., April 1. 1841. and temporarily settled in Gordon for less than a year, when he removed to the place where he now resides, in Februaiy, 1842 ; his land was all in the woods, but by dint of hard labor and persevering industry, he soon cleared it of the mantle nature gave it ; he now owns 65 acres of fine land, all in a good state of cultivation, with good, comfortable buildings erected thereon ; Mr. Bonham is another of the self-made men of this township ; he landed on the banks of the Miami River, with less than $75, but, by good management, combined with the assistance rendered by his amiable wife, has secured a competent income, from which to enjoy their declining years, and they are surrounded by all the comforts of life. He was united in marriage with Rebecca, daughter of David and Elizabeth Rittenhouse. July 1, 1837 ; they w^ere also natives of New Jersey, and their remains are interred in their native State ; Mr. H. died at the age of 81, and Mrs. II., at the age of 53 years ; Mr. and Mrs. Bonham are the parents of eight children, of whom four are living, viz. : Harrison, born Aug. 24, 1840; Sarah, born June 29, 1844, now Mrs. Garrett Hulse ; Criah. born June 27, 1847 ; Martha J., born Sept. 3, 1856, now Mrs. Carler. The deceased are : Amy. born April 14, 1838. died Nov. 10, 1841 ; Ann, born Oct. 18. 1842, and died Nov. I. L842 ; Andrew, born Sept, 22, 1849, died Sept. 10, 1851 ; Susan, born March 4. 1854, and departed this life Sept. 9, 1854. Mr. Bonham assessed this township in 1845, for which service he received $3.50, and was also Constable the same year. Mr. and Mrs. Bonham are members of the Baptist

Church of long standing, are among the faithful ones, and are consistent Christian people. Our subject has given his children good education, and his son Harrison is one of the leading educators of the county, and has followed the profession at intervals for fourteen years. At his country's call for help to preserve the unity of the States, and to crush the rebellious spirit of the South, young Harrison was one among the first to respond and volunteer in Co. B of the 110th O. V. I., Aug. 22, 18G2 ; the regiment was drilled in army tactics at Piqua, about two months, when the}* were removed to the front, in the vicinity of Parkersburg ; his regiment participated in the severe and stubbornly contested battle of Winchester, and after three consecutive days of incessant battle, were obliged to yield the ground on account of the overwhelming numbers of the enemy ; he received a severe wound in the right arm, and was taken prisoner on the morning of the last day's fight, and was entombed in the prison-pen at Belle Isle for one month, when he was paroled, and returned to his home for three months, when he was exchanged, and again returned to the front ; but by disease caused by exposure, and arm}* dirt, he was incapacitated from active duty till the following spring, when health and strength again returned, and he took his place in the ranks of his battered regiment on the eve of the great battle of the Wilderness ; in the first day's fight, May 5, he received a severe wound in the right hip, and was again taken to the hospital, where he remained for some time, and then came home on a furlough ; he recovered from his wound, and returned to the front in the winter of 1864 ; his regiment took an active part in the battles of the spring of 1865, that gave the death-blow to the rebellion ; he was honorably discharged May 16, 1865. Has followed teaching for nine years, with the exception of two terms. He celebrated his marriage with Catharine, daughter of Hendrick and Elizabeth Barkalow, Nov. 26, 1865 ; they are natives of Butler Co., Ohio, but residents now of Darke Co. ; Mr. Bonham has 79 acres of fine land, all in a good state of cultivation, and his improvements are No. 1 in every particular.

DAVID BRENNER, farmer, Sec. 6; P. 0. Gordon. Our subject was born in Darke Co. April 12, 1838, and is a son of George and Elizabeth Brenner, natives of Pennsylvania, who removed to Darke Co., in a very early day, and located in this township, where he, the father, lived for two years, when he met with an accident that cost him his life ; he was unhitching a horse in the yard, when the animal became enraged and gave Mr. Brenner a terrible kick in the stomach, which caused his death a few hours afterward ; his mother is still living, and resides near Union City upward of 60 years of age. Our subject was reared on the farm, and assisted in the duties of farm labor ; at the age of 16, he began life for himself and worked as a farm-hand till his marriage, which occurred Dec. 23, 1860, with Susanna, daughter of John and Barbara Minnich, residents of Montgomery Co. afterward of this county ; he settled on 152 acres of land, where he now resides, in 1861 ; it is now all in a good state of cultivation, with good improvements, all the fruit of his and his good wife's hard labor. Four children are the fruits of this union, of whom two are living, Barbara and John; the deceased are Mary and Ira. Mr. and Mrs. Brenner have been members of the German Baptist Church for sixteen years, and are worthy Christian people, and delight in discharging every Christian duty. To our subject and John Ditmore, whose sketch appear in this work, belongs the credit of making the first open ditch in Monroe Township in 1862 or 1863.

JOHN S. BROWN, farmer ; P. 0. Gordon ; one of the old settlers of Darke Co.; he was born in Warren Co., Ohio, March 25, 1828, and is a son of Joseph and Mary Brown ; his father was born in Virginia, in 1800, and removed to Warren Co. in 1811, and was one of the earl}* pioneers of the Miami Valley ; he learned the blacksmith trade at the age of 18, which business he followed there, and removed to Darke Co. in this township, in 1 830, and was one of the sturdy ones who gave improvement and civilization a start in the great wilderness of Ohio ; he followed farming and blacksmithing, till, within a few years of his death, he became disabled and was obliged to leave the field of labor ; lived an invalid for five years, and died Aug. 30, 1874. His mother was born in Warren Co.; her parents were John and Elizabeth Snorph, natives of Maryland ; Mr. Snorph died in Montgomery Co. ao-ed about 86 years ; Mrs. Snorph departed this life in Warren Co., aged about 60 years. Our subject assisted his father in agricultural pursuits till his 21st year of age, when he began life for himself, and engaged in farming. He was united in marriage with Sarah J., daughter of John and Hannah Patterson, Aug. 17, 1848 ; her father was born in Pennsylvania in 1803, and removed to Cincinnati with his parents when he was 7 years old, thence to Warren Co.; from there to Montgomery Co., where he married Miss Hannah Witham, and resided there upward of thirty years, then moved to West Baltimore, and resided here till his death, which occurred Jan. 17, 1874 ; Mrs. Patterson died in Montgomery Co., May 12, 1862, aged 58 years. After his marriage our subject engaged in farming in this township for three years, when he removed to Preble Co., and carried on a farm for a short time, thence back to the place where he now resides ; he settled on 80 acres of land partly in the woods, but, by hard labor and good management, he cleared it and got it in condition to receive the improved implements of agricultural labor ; he has since, in 1858, purchased 80 acres more land, and now owns 160 acres here in a body - all in a good state of cultivation, with good improvements. His large brick house presents a striking contrast to the little cabin that stands in the yard, which was once their abode. Mr. Brown is an example of one of our self-made men, having begun life with no capital, but by hard work, industry and good management, he has accomplished the great object in life - made a good home, and is surrounded by all the comforts of lite, in which to spend his declining years ; in all his struggles and privations, such as pioneers know, he has been nobly assisted by his amiable and industrious wife, and both are enjoying the fruits of their hard-earned labor. The}' are the parents of fourteen children, viz.: James M., born Jan. 7, 1849 ; Mary J., June 13, 1850 ; Ellen C.Feb. 22, 1852 ; John, Sept. 3, 1853 ; George W., Feb. 18, 1855 ; Julia, March 13, 1857 ; Albert, Feb. 24, 1858 ; Dora E., April 1, 1860 ; Arthur, May 7, 1862 ; Nellie, March 11, 1864 ; Libbie, August 22, 1866 ; Nina and Eddie (twins), Oct. 3, 1868 ; Norman L., Dec. 15, 1871 ; Julia died April 1, 1857 ; James M., died Jan. 25, 1869 ; George W., died March 16, 1869 ; Eddie, died March 28, 1869 ; Nellie, died Aug. 12, 1869 ; Nina, died April 30, 1870 ; Mary J., nee Mrs. William Poach, died July 12, 1870 : Albert, died Oct. 21, 1871 ; John F., married Martha J. Werts, Nov. 15, 1877 ; Ellenora, married Samuel Barkalow, Feb. 13, 1873 ; Mary J., united in marriage with William Ibach, Feb. 3, 1870. Mrs. Brown was born Feb. 22, 1827. Although Mr. Brown has been very unfortunate in rearing his large family, he has been one of the few fortunate ones, having only been sick once in his life, and then with the ague, and he informs us he was never off his feet, and is still hearty and strong though hard work and exposure have bent his frame and iron will, his faculties are unimpaired.

WILLIAM CASSELL, minister and farmer ; Sec. 4 ; P. 0. Arcanum. The subject of this memoir was born in Baltimore, Md., February 3, 1826 ; he is a son of Leonard and Marian Cassell, natives of Maryland ; his father was born in 1803, and has resided in Baltimore continuously for seventy-seven years ; his mother died in 1835. Our subject resided with his parents till he was 12 years of age, when he went to Carroll Co., Md., and labored on a farm till his 21st year ; he then removed to Montgomery Co., Ohio ; here he entered the ministry, a field of labor that needed just such material as Mr. C. possessed, for fearlessly and uncomplainingly has he discharged every duty, kept inviolate every trust; his calling has carried him from the influences of home and friends, and he has preached the Gospel in all of the following States : Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Tennessee, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, New York, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia; by estimate, he has preached two thousand two hundred sermons ; has consummated fifty-five marriages; for his labors in the ministry he has never received a cent, and is willing to go on to the end, and receive his reward from the hands of One, who rewards not with script, but with a free gift of righteousness and forgiveness of sins, a reward more valuable than the wealth of kingdoms ; he is an Elder of the Painter Creek and Ludlow German Baptist Church, which is an extensive organization, numbering about four hundred members, and in this denomination has he labored nearly all his life, and is universally loved and respected by all. He celebrated his marriage with Miss Lucinda, daughter of Daniel and Mary Cauffman, Aug. 14, 1851 ; twelve children have been given to this union, viz.: Jesse, born Oct. 13, 1852 ; Mary A., born Feb. 23, 1854 ; Catherine, born Jan. 1, 1856 ; Martha, born Sept. 22, 1857 ; Albert, born Nov. 20, 1858 ; Sarah, born Oct. 6. 18(30 ; Harvey, born Sept 26, 1862 ; Emma, born May 14, 1864 ; Anna, born March 15, 1866 ; William E., born Dec. 13, 1870 ; Ida M., born Jan. 1, 1873 ; Irvin, born March 8, 1874 ; Catherine, died Jan. 4, 1864 ; Martha departed this life July 12, 1860 ; Anna died March 1, 1869. Mrs. Cassell was born Sept. 8, 1832. Of Mr. Cauffmans family there were ten children, of whom six are living, viz.: Elizabeth, Benjamin, Frederick, Catherine, Lucinda and Rachel ; the deceased are, Jacob, died February 1842, and three others during infancy. Leonard Cassell and his wife were the parents of seven children, viz. : Joseph, James, deceased, Leonard, Elijah, Marian and Mary. Our subject has 80 acres of farm land, all in good state of cultivation, with good comfortable buildings erected thereon.

JOSEPH DITMER, farmer ; P. O., Gordon ; was born in Montgomery Co., Aug. 31, 1828 ; he is a son of Frederick and Salome Ditmer ; his father was born in Somerset Co.,Penn.,Sept. 17,1783 ; his mother was born in Maryland, Dec. 22, 1791 ; both removed to Montgomery County, before their marriage ; lived, died, and ai'e buried in the home of their adoption. Our subject assisted his father on the farm till he was 28 years of age, and then he began life for himself, and worked the old home place in partnership with his brother David for five years after the death of his father, when he removed to Darke County, to this township, and rented a farm for one year, and then, in 1859, he moved to the farm where he now resides, when it was a perfect wilderness, all in the green woods, with no improvements ; going to work with a will and determination, assisted by his industrious wife, they succeeded, after years of hard work, in clearing their land ; have made good improvements, and are contemplating building a large brick residence this year. He was united in marriage with Eva, daughter of Abraham and Rebecca Wellbaum, Nov. 30, 1854 ; her parents were natives of Lancaster Co., Penn., afterward residents of Montgomery and Darke Counties : her father died at the age of 60 years 6 months and 12 days ; her mother, now Mrs. Martin, resides in Union City, aged 73 years. Mr. and Mrs. Ditmer are the parents of six children, viz. : Sarah A., born Sept. 11, 1855 ; Mary, born on Aug. 14, 1857 ; Moses, born March 19, 1860 ; Fianna, born Jan. 24, 1866 ; William H, born July 6, 1871 ; Allen E., born March 17, 1877 ; the deceased are Sarah, died Feb. 15, 1863, aged 7 years 5 months and 4 days ; Frederick Ditmer, died Feb. 27, 1850, aged 65 years 5 montfhs and 10 days ; Salome Ditmer, departed this life May 4, 1878, aged 86 years 4 months and 12 days. Mr. Ditmer has held the office of School Director in his township ; he and his wife have been members of the German Baptist Church for fifteen years, and are good Christian people ; his grandfather, Frederick Ditmer, was a Revolutionary soldier, and belonged to a Pennsylvania Provincial regiment, and in one of the engagements of the war, he with two brothers, both soldiers, were standing together in consultation, when the one in the middle was instantly killed by a cannon ball, literally torn in fragments, presenting a horrible and sickening sight to his two surviving brothers. Our subject's parents were members of the German Baptist Church for many years, and died in the triumph of their faith. Mrs. Wellbaum was also a member of the same church.

GEORGE DITMORE, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 12 ; P. O. Arcanum. One of the old settlers of Darke Co.; was born in Montgomery Co. in 1813, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth Ditmore, natives of Pennsylvania ; his father was born in Somerset Co., his mother in Lancaster Co., and removed to Montgomery Co. at a very early day. Our subject assisted his father in the duties of the farm till he was 15 years old, when he apprenticed himself and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for sixteen years ; then he engaged in farming, and removed to Darke Co. in April. 1851. He first settled on 80 acres of rented land, partly cleared, and remained on this farm for four years, then removed to the place where he now resides ; he first purchased 120 acres of land, all in the woods, and. like others who settled in Darke Co. in an early day, had plenty to do, and he informs us he and his wife labored many times till far into the night before they got their farm in a state for cultivation. In 1801, he purchased 80 acres adjoining the home farm. In 1858, he bought 00 acres in Van Buren Township ; afterward purchased 80 acres more in this township, and 50 acres more in Van Buren Township. When he began, his capital consisted of one yearling colt and 25 cents in money ; this was the nucleus around which he gathered his fortune ; though insignificant as it was, it shows that fortunes are the growth of these small germs, when properly nourished, and, in this instance, we must recollect that Mr. Ditmore labored against many disadvantages. There are many young men who would have consumed his small capital with a few trifling expenses, but the outgrowth, through his management, has developed itself into quite a fortune, and he and his good wife are now enjoying the refreshing shades of retirement, the reward of their many selfdenials. He celebrated his marriage with Miss Catherine, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Fryman, Aug. 8, 1831. They were natives of Maryland. Seven children are the fruits of this union, viz., John, born Aug. 4, 1834 ; Levi, born Jan. 14, 1830 ; Lavina, born Aug. 25. 1837 ; Israel, born Aug. 12, 1840 ; George, born May 10, 1842 ; Catherine, born March 31, 1840 ; one dying in infancy ; Israel died Oct. 13, 1855. Our subject has been Township Treasurer and School Director for many years, and he and his wife are members of the German Baptist Church, and are consistent Christian people.