Fayette County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 3 of 10)

Mr. Fent has a half interest in eight hundred acres of land in this township, where he Uves. He has voluntarily shunned being elected to any township office, on account of duties at home.

William C. Fent

William C. Feut, fiirmer, is a son of James Fent, and was born in this township, October 26, 1829, where he was reared and educated. He was married in Greene County. June 19, 1858, to Miss Margaret Christopher, a native of Tayette County, Pennsylvania, who has borne him seven children: Charles, Josephine, Louis S., James C, Andrew J., Lucy, and Mary F., all living save Lucy, who died at the early age of three years.

Mr. Fent taught school in winter and farmed in summer, when a young man. For many years he has devoted his time wholly to farming and trading, llis father gave him fifteen hundred dollars as a start, and by industry and good management he has accumulated property to the amount of ninety acres, one mile south of Jeflersonville, twenty acres in the corporation of this village, and a half interest in three hundred acres in this township. He paid from forty to one hundred dollars per acre for his land. He is a liberal contributor to churches, a good neighbor, and a highly respected citizen.

John B. Fent

John B. Fent, grocer, Jefferson ville, is a sou of James Fent, who came from Tennessee to this township about 1814, where he has since lived, and was married to Anna B. Creamer in 1822. He was engaged in farming until 1877, when he came to Jeftersonville to live, retired from active business in his declining years. Mrs. Fent died December 3, 1876, aged seventy-two years. They had eight children, seven of whom survive.

Our subject, the youngest of the family, was born May 21, 1845. He was married to Miss Deborah A. Creamer, daughter of Philip Creamer, December 31, 1868. He served one hundred days in Company D, 168th 0. X. G. Has held the office of trustee of this township four years. Is a member of Jeftersonville Lodge Xo. 468, F. & A. M. His wife and mother were members of the Methodist Protestant Church.

. Our subject was reared and lived on a farm until 1877, when he engaged in the grocery business here, and has been successful. He has a nice residence in town, and ten acres planted in trees one mile and a half southwest of town.

James P. Fent

James P. Fent, farmer, Jeifersonville, is a son of James and Anna Fent, natives of this county, and he was born June 20, 1838. He was married to Rachel S^iiith, daughter of Samuel Smith, March 18, 1866, and is a member of one of the pioneer families of the county. He enlisted in the Union army. Company C, 90th O. V. I., August 8, 1862, serving until his discharge, which occurred, June, 1865, and made a good record. He has a farm containing one hundred and sixty acres, situated one and one-half miles, south of Jeffersonville. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. He is township trustee, having been elected April 4, 1881, and is a farmer and stock dealer, a highly respected citizen and a good neighbor.

John Fults

John Fults, farmer and tile maker, Washington, was born in this county, April 8, 1826, where he was reared, educated and married to Miss A. A. Bush, November, 1816 ; they had thirteen children by this marriage : John W., Simon P., Mary F., Martha J., Jacob H., Labias 0., Ozias E., Jasper A., Clara A., Iva A., Etta, Rosa and Lizzie. John, Simon and Martha are deceased.

Mr. Fults has a farm of one hundred and fifty acres, well improved, on which he lives ; and has a tile manufactory, situated about eight miles, northwest of Washington. Mrs. Fults and seven of the children are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. Fults is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry, and a well and favorably known citizen. His parents, Peter and Francis (Rankins) Fults, died in this county; he in 1863, aged seventyfive years, she in 1852, aged fifty years. He came from Virginia, in 1800, located in Ross County, and remained until 1816, then came to this county. He helped to build the first houses of Washington. He was twice married ; first, to Miss Carr, who died several years before our subject's birth.

John F. Gregg

a native of Kentucky, who came to this state, when a young man, and located in Hamilton County, where he married Miss Nancy McGorime, the mother of our suhject. They remained in the county just mentioned several years, then removed to Rush County, Indiana, where he died, in 1828, aged thirty-eight years. After her husband's death, Mrs. Gregg returned to Hamilton County, where she died, in 1870, aged seventy years. The family consisted of seven children ; John being the second, and was born in Hamilton County, September 27, 1816. He came to this county, in October, 1843, and has lived in this township ever since. He was married, September 20, 1841, in Warren County, to Mary J. Ligget, who bore him nine children : Mary, Jane, Ace, Lot, Ann, Cos, ]!^ay, Nye and Pope ; Jane, Lot and Ann are deceased. Ace and Nye graduated at Ann Arbor ; the latter is at present one of the common pleas judges of this district. The others are on the home farm, which consists of one hundred and ninety acres, well improved, situated on Paint Creek, three miles northeast of Jeffersonville. He has lived on this farm about twenty-seven years, and devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits with satisfactory results. Mrs. Gregg and four of the children are members of the Universalist Church at Jetfersonville. This family is well and favorably known, and can count many true friends. Excepting Mr. Gregg, who has several times voted with tlie Greenback party, the family has Republican proclivities.

Jesse Hagler

Jesse Hagler, farmer, Washington, is a son of Isaac and Susan (Stookey) Hagler, who were natives of Hardy County, Virginia, and came to Ross County, this state, in 1814, where they were married in the same year. Came to this county, in 1815, and located seven miles northwest of Washington, where Mr. Hagler died, July 10, 1880, and where Mrs. Hagler lives with our subject. He had a farm of four hundred and thirty acres, Avhicli was the result of his industry and economy. There were eight children of the family, our subject being the iifth; three yet survive.

Our subject was born October 22, 1823, and was married, May 1, 1864, to Miss Angehne Rodgers, daughter of Hamilton, who was a pioneer of this county. He has a family of three children : Howard, Gertrude and Roy ; all living. Mrs. Hagler died September 27, 1874, and was born June 25, 1840.

He has a farm of live hundred and fifty acres where he lives, and one hundred and fifty acres adjoining with it; also, three hundred and eighteen acres about one-half mile east of Jeffersonville. He is one of the first members of the Patrons of Husbandry of this county.

Joab Harper

Joab Harper, minister, Jeffersonville, is a son of John and Mary (Parrett) Harper, and was born, August 25, 1817, in this township. When nineteen years of age, he went to Paint Township, in 1877, and then returned to this, where he has since lived. He married Miss Elizabeth Bloomer, April 20, 1839, who bore him ten children ; James, Lottie J., John W., Louis H., Robert L., Joseph G., Mary, ITancy E., Alice B. and Ida May ; five are living. Mrs. Harper died, March 31, 1877, at the age of fifty-three years, and was an exemplary member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which she joined when a girl, and died triumphantly.

Mr. Harper has been actively engaged in church services since 1859. He has held the offices of class-leader and steward, since shortly after he joined the church, and has been in the ministry since 1875. He was an exception of a boy; never quarreled in school, nor has he quarreled with any man since maturity. His parents were members of the Presbyterian Church.

Our subject is a firm temperance man, and was a member of the Patrons of Husbandry ; but after his society surrendered its charter, he has not joined another. He had a farm of one hundred acres, situated about five miles east of Jeffersonville ; but lost it in going security for a friend who failed to meet his obligations. His son, John W., served three years in the late war. Company C, 90th 0. V. I. He now lives in Wabash County, Indiana. Robert L., is a prominent stock dealer in Kansas City, Missouri. Joseph G., IS'ancy E. and Alice B., live in this state.

Willis Hays

Willis Hays, farmer, Jeffersonville, is a son of John, who came to this county, from near Cynthiana, Kentucky, in the fall of 1806. He was married, in 1808, to Miss Mary Parrett, who died September, 1821; she bore him two children: William and John J.; Wil- liani is deceased. He married Miss Catherine Webrigh, in 1823, onr subject's mother. Mr. Hays was one this county's early pioneers. He enlisted as a captain in the war of 1812, and served during the entire war. He lived to be ninety-nine years of age, and was a large and strong man.

Our subject was born, in Paint Township, this county, July 15, 1827, where he was reared, educated, and married Miss Margery J. Janes, daughter of William Janes, April 20, 1854 ; eleven children are the result of this union : Amy, Ann, George L., Catherine, Lucy, Laura, Ellen, Grant, Noah, Callie and Jessie.

Mr. Hays has a farm, of iive hundred and live acres, situated about one and one-half miles, east of Jetfersonville, on the Washington pike. He farms to both grain and stock, and is very successful. He is a well and favorably known bitizen, who has many friends throughout his acquaintances.

Joshua O. Heironimus

Joshua G. Heironimus, farmer, is a native of Virginia. He came to Fayette County in the fall of 1854, and located on Paint Creek, in the Hida neighborhood, and has since lived in this county. He was born February 18, 1833, and married to Phcebe Hutchinson in October, 1855. He had, when he came here, a sum of mouej equal to about three hundred and fifty dollars, but was taken sick, and confined to his bed till the money was gone, and he in debt. By industry and good management he has accumulated enough to purchase a good farm of one hundred and fifty acres, in an excellent condition, situated on the north line of this county, a portion being in Madison County. The Fayette County portion is in the Washington surve}', sold by Washington to Mr. Thomas.

Having paid close attention to his affairs, he has been quite successful, dealing largely in hogs. He is a good neighbor, and model citizen.

the father is still living at the advanced age of ninety-three years. They had a family of three children, John being the second. The father was married to Elizabeth JSTull prior to his marriage to our subject's mother. The third wife was Susan Mauzy, who died in 1860. The first wife bore him two children, the second none. The last two wives were members of the Baptist Church.

Henry L. Hire

Henry L. Hire, farmer and stock dealer, is a son of Jackson Hire, a native of this county, and Ann (Ivesler-Hines) Hire, a native of Virginia. They were married in this county about 1846, and had a family of two children - Henry and Sarah. Sarah died December 23, 1869. He came to this township in 1840, and bought one hundred acres of land, where our subject now lives, on which the old "Douglass Mill" was built in an early day, paying ten dollars per acre for it, which is now worth at least seventy-five. He died, March 22, 1875. He and his wife were members of the Christian Church.

Our subject was born in this township, JSTovember 6, 1849, and was reared on the farm where he now lives. He was married, February 14, 1869, to Miss Angle Brock, of Madison County, daughter of Jackson and Sarah (Little) Brock. He has a farm of one hundred and ninety -five acres where he lives, three miles northwest of Jeffersonville, and one hundred and fifty-seven acres half a mile north of his residence. Farms to both grain and stock, and deals rather largely in Poland-China hogs. His hogs have taken first premium at the leading fairs, including the Ohio State Fair, Tri- State Fair of Toledo, Hamilton, and Northern and Southern Ohio fairs. He has sold his stock in several states, for breeding. He also raises the Merino sheep, and deals only in good stock.

David Horney

David Homey, farmer, is a son of Daniel and Margaret (Calaway) Horney, natives of North CaroUna, who came to Greene County, Ohio, at a very early date, and remained there until after their marriage, coming to Fayette County about 1808, and locating half a mile nortli of Jetfersonville, where our subject was born, October 19, 1832, and now lives, and has a farm of one hundred and seventy-seven acres, a part of six hundred acres owned by his father, who knew this neighborhood in the wilderness, and would go to Oldtown, Greene County, to mill with a sack of corn on a horse; would take two days to make a trip; would take his gun and dog, and camp by the path at night. One night, as he was returning, he stopped between here and Jamestown, when, after he had fallen asleep, his dog began a fight with a bear that came too near. By and by the bear got the advantage of the dog, when Mr. Horney stabbed the bear, killing him instantly. Hr. Horney died iSTovember 28, 1865. Mrs. Horney died in August, 1855. * Our sul)ject was married, March 18, 1858, to Miss Rebecca J. Wright, daughter of James and Louisa (Troxell) Wright, who bore him live children : Adda E., Delia O., Thurman P., Clarence H., and Loren R. Mrs. Horney is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Home}' remembers seeing some of the farming implements his father used in an early day, which were the wooden plow, wooden-toothed harrow, harness made of rope and elm bark, and

John Horney

John Horney, farmer, is a son of Jeiirey Horney, and was born in this township, January 7, 1846, where he was reared, educated, arrd married Miss Nettie Bush, daughter of Abraham Bush, September 21, 1871. Two children are the result of this marriage - Charles A. and Catharine, both living.

Mr. Horney is trustee of this township at present. He has a farm of two hundred and six and a half acres, situated four miles northwest of Jetfersonville. This is the farm where his parents located at an early day, and where they died.

Oliver E. Horney

Oliver E. Horney, farmer, is a son of Jefferson Horne}^, whose biography appears in this work. He was born January 31, 1837, and was reared and twice married in this county; first, to Miss Elizabeth McKillip, October 20, 1859. Two children were the result of this union : Viola A. and Elizabeth A. After Mrs. Horney's death, he married Sarah Underwood, who has borne him eight children: Henry E., James IS., Alpha, Eber J., Maywood, Leander H., Esther, and Lillie, all living.

Mr. Horncy has a farm of thirty acres, situated two miles northwest of Jeffersonville. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Ho cr.listed in Company C. 90th O. V. I., in August, 1862, and served until September 30, 1863. Received a wound in the left ankle at the battle of Stone River, for which he was discharged.

Forris Horney

Forris Horney, farmer. West Lancaster, son of Jefferson Horney, wbose biography appears in this work, was born in this township, August 15, 1833. He was reared, educated, and married in this county. July 29, 1858, he wedded Miss Esther A. Williams, daughter of Jesse and Margaret (Botkins) Williams. Her father died July 18, 1866, aged seventy-one years. Her mother lives w^ith our subject.

Mr. Horney has a farm of one hundred and twenty-four acres, well improved, situated one mile west of West Lancaster, and farms to both grain and stock. During the war of "the rebellion he served about three years in Company C, 90th O. Y. I.

Mr. Horney and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Both are members of reputable pioneer families, and are respected citizens. They have a family of three children : Frank A., Mary F., and Otto C, all living.

Jefferson Horney

Jefferson Horney, farmer, Jeffersonville, is the eldest son of Daniel Horney, (an account of whose life appears elsewhere) who came to this township, at an early day, from ]^orth Carolina.

Our subject was born in this county, where he was raised, and where, on the 19th of September, 1878, he married Mary (Carr) Mahoy, a sister of the late Colonel S. F. Carr, of Washington. She was previously married to Archibald Mahoy, who died December 20, 1866. He, too, had been married previously, (September 30, 1832,) to Miss Margaret Griffith, who bore him ^ve children - four of whom are living. Mr. Horney, Mr. Maboy, and both wives were members of the Methodist Protestant Chureli. Mr. Ilorney came to the farm he now occupies, and which contains one hundred and fourteen acres, in 1834, and has changed it from a wild and chaotic tract to a high state of cultivation. The elder Mr. Horney gave to each of his thi'ee sons one hundred acres of land, and offered them fourteen acres additional at two dollars. Jefferson, fearing that he would, because of the prevailing scarcity of money, be unable to pay for the land, did not accept the proposition until he had well considered the matter. He finally bought the land, and has, in late years, frequently refused seventy-five dollars per acre for the same.

William T. Howard

WilHam T. Howard, saddle and harness -.maker, Jefferson vi lie, was born in Warren County, Ohio, October 15, 1821. At the age of fourteen he went to Virginia, where he remained one year, and then returned to Ohio. He remained unsettled until 1838, when he located in Washington Court House, where he remained until February, 1840, when he settled in Jeffersonville, and engaged at his trade, which he continued until 1875, when he sold his stock and shop to his son, J. W.

Mr. Howard was married, October 30, 1841, to Miss Elton Sexton, who was born in Rockingham County, Virginia, May 22, 1816. The result of this marriage was five children: Sexton, Seperepta A., Jurad W., and two who died in infanc}'.

Jurad is the only child living. He was married, August 6, 1874, to Miss Mary Johnson. One child, Flora, is the result of this union. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity of Jeffersonville. His wife and mother are members of the Methodist Protestant Church.

Joseph Hitrless

of William and Delila (Bodkin) Fent, June 16, 1850 ; six children are the result of this union : Joseph S., AVilliam F., Mary J., Glide E., Hattie M. and Viva Blanch, All deceased save Joseph and Hattie.

Our subject was elected justice of the peace of this township, in 1860, and has held office ever since except one year. lie has been successful in his official duties and in business. He remembers when this place was very thinly settled, and the school house where he first attended school, stood where the village cemetery now is; it was log with puncheon floors, window made of greased paper, and heated by means of a fire-place, perhaps nine feet long. Mr. Hurless is a highly respected citizen, and a worthy member of the I. O. O. F., of Jefl:ersonville Lodge.

Evan L. Janes

Evan L. Janes, farmer, Jeffersonville, is a son of "William P. and Mary (Mock) Janes, - he a native of Virginia, she of Ohio, - who were married in this c^nnty about 1829, and had a family of thirteen children, eight of whom are living.

Our subject, the fifth of the family, was born December 7, 1840, in this township, where he was reared, educated, and March 17, 1869, was married to Miss Maggie Squire, a daughter of 3!^athaniel Squire, of Paint Township, and one of the pioneers of this county. Rev. Mills Gardner officiated. The result of this union is two children : Harry L., and Grace G.

Mr. Janes has a farm of eighty-five and one-half acres, situated at the east line of Jeffersonville. August 7, 1862, he enlisted in Gompany G, 90th O. V. I., and was discharged at Gamp Deunison, June 21, 1862. In 1878 he was elected township trustee, and has served almost two terms ; holds the office at present. Is a highly respected and prominent citizen in his township. Mrs. Janes is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Ghurch.

Robert W. Jenkins

Robert W, Jenkins, farmer, Jeffersonville, is a native of this county, and was married to Miss Mary Irion, also a native of this county, Mrs. Jenkins died, in 1858. They reared a family of four children on the farm where our subject now lives, and where he was born. He has a farm, of one hundred and seven acres, situated three miles southeast of Jeffersonville, on the Washington pike. Mr. Jenkins and son, Thomas C, are members of the Patrons of Ilnsbandry.

Our subject's father, Jacob, came to this county, in 1812; while on the way, was drafted to serve in the war of 1812 ; but hired a substitute, and came on to this county, where he died in 1859. Thomas A. served three years in Company C, 90th O. V. 1., was wounded in the right foot, at Jonesboro, Georgia, for which he was discharged.

Levi Jenks

Levi Jenks, farmer, Edgefield, a native of this county, was born October 10, 1821. October 15, 1840, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Sanderson. They have eight children living : Euth, Smith, Taylor, Solomon, Jane, Leander, John, and Sherman. Three are deceased: Harvey, Charles, and one who died in infancy.

Mr. Jenks has a farm of three hundred acres, well improved, situated two and one-half miles west of West Lancaster, where he lives, and fifty-four acres in Greene County. This is the result of his own industry and good management. He assisted in driving the noted Morgan from Ohio, and placed a substitute in the actual service during the war. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Benjamin F. Johnson

Benjamin F. Johnson, farmer, is a son of John L. Johnson, a native of Highland County, who came to Greene County when a young man, where he married Miss Elizabeth Watson (our subject's mother), and lived the remainder of his life, dying January 31, 1865. Mrs. Johnson is still living.

of seventy-eight acres, situated two and a half miles northwest of Jeffersonville. He was elected trustee of this township in 1879, and' served two years. He and his w^ife are members of the Disciple Church. They are good neighbors, and respected citizens.

H. A. Kimball, farmer, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, May 7, 1825. He is a son of Bela and Electa Kimball, natives of Stowe, Vermont, who came to Ohio about the year 1849, with a family of eight children. Our subject was married, in 1858, to Miss EHzabeth Johnston, daughter of James and Sarah Johnston, of Ross County. They have two children : Viroca O. and Emily T. Mr. Kimball was in the hundred days' service. He received his education in Champaign County, in the old log school houses, where they had the soft side of a slab for the seats. He has a curiosity in his possession in the way of a violin, supposed to be three hundred j^ears old. It was captured from some aristocratic family of the South during the war, and our subject refuses to take one thousand dollars for it. It is a good one, and a very valuable relic.

Henry Kirk

Henry Kirk, farmer, is a son of James Kirk. He was born on the farm where he now lives, June 23, 1821, and owns* four hundred and forty-four acres. He married Miss Elmira Parrett, daughter of George Parrett, who has borne him six children: Flora, Fraine C, James E., Georgiana, Willard H., and Lucy P.

Mr. Kirk was once a member of the Odd-fellows lodge at Washington, but withdrew for the purpose of uniting with the lodge at Jeffersonville, and as yet has neglected to do so. He is a member of one of the pioneer families. Politically, he is a Democrat. He firmly resolved never to sit on a jury with a negro, and he has kept the resolution. Shortly after the close of the war, he was chosen as a juror in the count}' court. Seeing two negroes in the box, he positively refused to serve. Judge Steele told him that he could not excuse him on those grounds; and said that he must abide by the law, wdiich w^as imprisonment. Attorney Richard Harrison, of Columbus, said the penalty might be made a fine, which was done, and Mr. Kirk paid the fine and left the court. He has refused to

Madison S. Kirk

Madison S. Kirk, farmer, is a son of Thomas Kirk, whose biography appears in this work. He was born in this township, June 15, 1834, and was married, March 31, 1863, to Miss Agnes Collier, of Greenfield. Three children are the result of this union: Minnie J., Jennie N., and Bertha L, The latter died at the early age of two years and seven months. Our subject served one year in Company H, 60th 0. V. I., and came home without a wound, having passed through several heavy battles. His brother Kayborn served one year in the same company, and enlisted for one hundred days in the Ohio National Guard, and was taken prisoner at Cynthiana, Kentucky.

Thomas Kirk

Thomas Kirk, farmer, is a son of James Kirkpatrick, who came to this county, in 1812, from Virginia. The original name, as spelled by our subject's grandfather, was Kilpatrick. Thomas was born in this county, December 5, 1813, where he was reared, and married to Miss Elizabeth Parret, daughter of John Parret, a pioneer of this county.

Mr, Kirk remembers when this part of the county was comparatively a wilderness. His first school house was built of logs, with paper windows, and puncheon floor and seats. The church services were then held in private houses, school houses, and in groves, as they had no church houses. He has a farm of four hundred acres, well improved, situated six and a half miles northwest of Washington. Had a family of twelve children: Madison S., Amanda J., Rayborn, Charity, Augustus, Eddie, James, George XL, Alice, Ward, Dora, and William. George and Alice are deceased. Mrs. Kirk and three daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

born on the farm where he now hves. He was married, January 5, 1873, to Miss Martha Johnson, daughter of D. D. Johnson, of Greene Countj^ who has borne him three children: Wilbert, Emma L., and May, all living.

Mr. McKillip has been engaged in farming thus far through life. He farms chiefly to grain. Is a member of a reputable pioneer family, and a good neighbor. Mrs. McKillip is a member of the Baptist Church, joining in 1879.

Talley McKillip, retired farmer, Jeffersonville, is a son of John and Betsy (Whicker) McKillip, who were born, reared and married in IS'orth Carolina. At an early day they came to this county, where our subject was born, April 25, 1819.

He has a farm of three hundred acres, situated one and onefourth miles north of Jefiersonville, which is well improved. Has rented his farm, and is now retired from active business, as by good management he has accumulated sufficient to keep himself and wife in plenty in their declining years. They have had a family of seven children, four of whom are deceased. Two children are married, and one, Idelia, is at home with her parents. Himself and wife are members of the Universalist Church ; are good neighbors, and respected citizens.

William McKillip, farmer, Jeiiersonville, is a son of James, (whose father located in this county, in an early day, where he died). He was born, September 8, 1848, in this county, where he was reared and married, to Miss Lucy Byers, August 28, 1873 ; one child, Eugene, is the result of this union.

Mr. McKillip has a farm, of one hundred and fifty-five acres, situated one and one-half miles, west of Jefiersonville, and farms to both grain and stock. He is a member of the I. 0. O. F., of Jamestown Lodge Xo. 181. He joined March, 1879.

Henry Miller

Henry Miller, farmer, Jeft'ersonville, is a son of George Miller, a native of Pendleton County, Virginia, who came to this county, in 1811, and located near where Washington now is, where he died, December, 1856. He was thrice married ; first, to Miss Negley, a native of Virginia, who bore him one child, Malinda, and died before our subject's birth. He married Miss Susan Hagler, (our subject's mother,) in 1814, who bore him eight children. Henry being the oldest.

Our subject was born. May 16, 1815, in Union Township, this county. He was married, in 1834, to Miss Mary Burnett, daughter of Robert Burnett. They had live children : George W., Elizabeth, Nancy, Nathan and Benjamin. The youngest died while in the service of the late war. Company C, 90th 0. V. I. Mrs. Miller died, October, 1842. He then married Miss Rebecca Blue, in 1851 ; two children by this marriage : John W., and one died in infancy.

Mr. Miller has a farm of one hundred and sixty-five and threefourth acres, situated on the east line of Jeffersonville. He served two terms as township trustee, and has retired from active business and rents his land.

Thomas B. Mills

Thomas B. Mills, farmer, Jamestown, Greene County, is a son of John Mills, who came from Kentucky to Greene County in 1796. In a short time he removed to Warren County, and in 1809 returned to Greene County, where he still lives, in the eighty-sixth year of his age.

Our subject was born in Greene County, January, 1817, and has been twice married. March 14, 1839, he was wedded to Miss Rhoda Horney, who bore him ten children, and died in June, 1865, in the forty-eighth year of her age. On the 16th of January, 1868, he married Mrs. Louisa (Sheely) Sesler, of Greene County. By this union there are two children. Of the twelve children nine are living.

William served three j-ears in the same company and regiment, and then re-enlisted in the cavalry, and served one year there. Both came out of the service vs^ithout a wound.

Hezekiah Mock

Our subject was married to Miss Huldy Chaney, September 12, 1850; one child, Cassius, is the result of this union. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church. He has a farm of two hundred and seventy-eight acres, on which they live, situated four miles northwest of Jeffersonville, on South Charleston pike, which is a part of the old home farm, where his father bought five hundred and nine acres for one thousand dollars, then almost an unbroken forest.

In 1832, the father planted an apple tree on this farm, and grafted it the next spring. This tree still bears a large crop of fine fall pippen apples every fruit year ; it measures seven feet nine inches in circumference, its branches measure forty-three feet, and is twenty-seven feet in height. This is a reputable, and one .of this county's worthy families.

Eli Mock

Eli Mock, farmer, is a son of Daniel Mock, and was born in this county, April 30, 1838. He was married, December 14, 1865, to Miss Elizabeth Shockley, daughter of Clemence Shockley. They have three children: Geneva, Herbert, and Adeline E., all living, Mrs. Mock is a member of the Christian Church. He has a farm of two hundred and three acres, well improved, where he lives, about three and a half miles north of Jeffersonville, seventy-tAvo acres diagonally across the road from it, and sixty acres about two miles north of Jeffersonville. He is a good citizen, a respected neighbor, and a member of a reputable pioneer family.

Simon Moon

Simou Moon, farmer, is a sou of John Moon, who came to Ohio from North CaroUua, in 1807, and located in Cincinnati, where he remained three years, and then came to this township, remaining here until his death, which occurred January 4, 1842, at the age of sixty-seven years. He was married to our subject's mother in Xorth Carolina, who bore him eight children, and died, April 16, 1817, after which he married Mary (Lindsey) Clemauce. There were five children by this marriage.

Our subject was born in this township, January 24, 1813, and remembers when there were but few settlements in this township, and the houses were all log. A few Indians were here, and the woods abounded with wild game. He has two mill-stones of a hand-mill, used in his boyhood, for grinding their corn and buckwheat. His first school house was log, with puncheon floor and seats, and w^indows made of greased paper, pasted over a hole made in the wall by cutting a log out.

Our subject was twice married ; first, to Mrs. Martha (McKillip) Huston, September 20, 1835. Eleven children were the result of this union, nine of whom are living. Mrs. Moon died, January 24, 1859. He then married Nancy Hornbeck, March 21, 1861.

Mr. Moon has a farm of two hundred and seventeen and a half acres, well improved, situated six miles northwest of Jefi:ersonville. He had six hundred and fifty acres before he divided among his children. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church. The children, except one, are members of the Christian, Methodist Episcopal, Methodist Protestant, and Disciple churches. He served twelve years as a member of the board of education of this township some years since.

Mary S. Patten

Mary S. Patten is a daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Baughn) Bush. Slie was born in this county, where she was reared. November 7, 1840, she was married to William J. Patten. Eight children are the result of this marriage: Samantha S., Nettie W., Sarah E., Bathaua W., Minerva R., Mattie V., Jessie L., and Richard E. Nettie, Jessie, and Richard, are deceased. Mr. Patten died, Janu- ary 13, 1869, aged fifty years. He was a member of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which faith he died triumphantly. Mrs. Patten, and all the children, save Richard, who died at the age of eleven months, are members of the same church. She has a farm of one hundred acres, situated on the Jeffersonville pike, six miles northwest of Washington.

Benjamin H. Parrett

Benjamin II. Parrett, farmer, is a son of Joseph J. Parrett (better known as Tennessee Joe). He was born January 18, 1824, on the farm where he now lives, and where he was reared. April 21, 1853, he was married to Miss Nancy Allen. Five children are the result of this marriage : Seth E., Eva J., Oric V., Cora G., and Mary, all living. Seth and Oric are married. This entire family, save Oric, are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which faith the parents died triumphantly.

Mr. Parrett has a farm of one hundred and sixty-six acres, well improved, on which he lives, situated five miles southwest of Washington, on the Jefl:ersonville pike. This family is well and favorably known, and have many friends.

Mrs. Ann Parrett

Mrs. Ann (Fletcher) Parrett, is a daughter of Thomas and Ann (Higby) Fletcher. She was born in Pennsylvania, in 1811, and came to Ohio with her parents the same year. They located in Clermont County, where the parents died. She came to this county about 1820, and married George Parrett, son of John and Catharine (Windle) Parrett, March 4, 1828. Seven children are the result of this union : Elmira, Thomas F., Mary C, Elizabeth E., Belinda A., Susan L., and Lucy O. Susan E. died at the early age of fifteen months. Mr. Parrett died July 29, 1872, aged fifty-nine years. He was a member of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which faith he died triumphantly.

Mrs. Parrett has a farm of one hundred acres, well improved, situated seven miles northwest of Washington, on the Jefi'ersouville pike. She and five of the children are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Elm;ra joined the Methodist Episcopal Church after marriage. This is an esteemed family.

George H. Pattoii, farmer, is a son of John M. and Sarah (Little) Patton, and was born in Frederick County, Virginia, October 5, 1813, where he was reared. He came to Ohio when twenty-one years of age, and located near Jeffersonville, where he remained three years, and then removed to the northern part of the township, remaining there until 1850, when he came to the farm where he now lives, and where the father died, at the age of seventyseven years. Mrs. Patton died at the age of sixty-nine years.

Our subject has been twice married ; first, to Miss Lucinda Sheely, January 1, 1845. One child was the result of this marriage - John A., who lives on a farm adjoining his father's, on the south. He Avas married to Miss Martha Moon in December, 1871. They have one child - Edith.

Mrs. Patton died September 29, 1846. He then married Miss Elizabeth Pagan, October 25, 1849. They have one child, Genetta, who married Eli S. Parret, December 25, 1873. They have two children : Earle E. and George.

Mr. and Mrs. Patton are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, of Pleasant View. When Mr. Patton came to Ohio he had but a few cents in money ; but by his industry he has accumulated sufficient means to live at his ease in his declining years. He has a well-improved farm of two hundred and eighteen acres, on which he lives, and has given each of his children fifty acres.

Thomas Rankin

Tkonias Rankin, West Lancaster, is a native of this county, in which he was reared. He was married to Miss Viletta Sanderson, June 20, 1854. One child, Leander, is the result of this union.

Mr. Pankin was engaged in the mercantile business in this place from 1856 until 1873, except comparatively a short time. He served in Company H, 60th O. V. I., and was captured at Harper's Ferry, in September, 1862; also at Cyuthiana, Kentucky, June 11, 1864, then captain of Company H, 168th O. V. I. He is now assisting his son, who is a natural mechanic, and does the best work in blacksmithing, wagon-making, painting, and trimming carriages. In fact, he is a natural genius; never served an apprenticeship at any trade, and does all the business that the capacity of his shop will permit. He was married to Miss Julia A. Acton. February 6, 1878, and has two children : Esther and Harry Mc.

William S. Reid

William S. Reid, farmer. His parents came to Ohio from Maryland, in 1825, and located in Ross County. They came to Fayette in 1832, where the father died, in February, 1881. They joined the Methodist Protestant Church in 1840. The family consisted of nine children.

Our subject was married to Miss Caroline Creamer, daughter of David Creamer, January 29, 1861. Five children are the result of this union : Wallace C, Charles A., Howard, Arthur H., and William E., all living. Himself, wife, and two eldest sons, are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. He has a farm of one hundred and twenty-three acres, well improved, situated eight miles northwest of Washington, and is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry.

James S. Robinson

James S. Robinson, farmer, is a son of John P. Robinson, whose father, Thomas, was a native of Ireland, and emigrated to Germany about 1780, where he married our subject's grandmother, Rebecca Coons, and came to the United States in 1797, locating near Zanesville, Ohio, where he remained until 1820, when he removed to Washington, D. C, remaining there until they reared their family of eight children, and then came to Washington C. H. The grandfather died in Ross County, Ohio, and the grandmother in Miami County, Indiana. Our subject's father remained in Washington C. H. several years, when it had but one business house, and this county was almost an unbroken forest. He went to Indiana, and remained several years, then returned to Ohio. Went to Illinois in 1875, where he died, March 2, 1878, aged seventy-eight years.

Elda J., and died July 15, 1868. He then married Mary E. Torbitte, of this county, August 8, 1871. He is a member of Jamestown Lodge No. 181, I. O. O. F., and served two years in Company C, 114th O. Y. I. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church.

Horney Robison

Horney Robison, farmer, is a son of William Robison, who came to Ohio in 1803, and located in Greene County, where he remained until 1805, when he came to Fayette, and located where our subject now lives. He was married in Virginia to Hanna Horney, our subject's mother. Then this county was very thinly settled by white men. The Indians helped him to raise his first cabin, as there were not enough white men to do it.

Our subject was born, September 14, 1835, on the farm where he now lives, and owns one hundred and sixty-five acres, well improved, situated two and a half miles northwest of Jeffersonville. He has his farm rented, and lives with the renter, as he is not yet married. He is a member of Jeffersonville Lodge No. 468, F. & A. M., joining about 1866^

John W. Roebuck

John W. Roebuck, grain and lumber dealer, Jeffersonville, is a son of Hugh and Liddie (Farmer) Roebuck. He came with his parents to this state, when at the age of six months, located in Ross Count}', and remained nine years, then removed to this county, located near Bloomingburg, and remained until 1851 ; then removed to the northern part of this township where the father died, in 1864. Mrs. Roebuck was born in this county, in 1803. They were married in 1826, and had nine children - our subject being the seventh - of whom four are living.

Their house was a place for holding religious services for years, as there were no churches in the neighborhood. They were members of the Methodist Church, in which faith they died.

Our subject was born in this county, March 12, 1841, where he was reared and educated, and taught school two terms. He was married, October 30, 1866, to Miss Martha J. Conner; seven children being the result of this union : Frank L., Harry S., Joe B., Lynn L., Ida A., Elba F. and an infant, who is deceased.

Mr. Roebuck is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of Jeftersonville, having joined, the order at Washington, in 186^. He is a charter member of the Jefferson ville Lodge No. 468, and served as Master tiiree years. He was a citizen of Alabama two years, and during that time was a member of the State Board of Registration. He served seven months as a volunteer in the Union army. Company H, 60th O. V. L, and was taken prisoner at Harper's Ferry, September 16, 1862, and discharged before his time expired. While in Alabama, he was appointed as postmaster of the Calhoou postoffice, on the Alabama and Florida Railroad.

Samuel M. Sanderson

Samuel M. Sanderson, farmer. West Lancaster, is a son of James and Sarah (iS^ewman) Sanderson, who were married, in 1812, and had a family of twelve children, our subject being the ninth ; they are all living. The parents came to this county, in 1812, and remained through life. Mr. Sanderson died, in 1867, aged seventyseven years. Mrs. Sanderson is living, is eighty-nine j'ears of age, and is in good health considering her age.

Our subject was born, January 12, 1829, ftnd was reared in this, his native county, where he married Miss Mary Gray, daughter of Charles and Rebecca Gray, December 26, 1853, who has borne him five children : Rebecca J., Sallie N., Lucy J., Charles B. and Lillie C. Charles died, August, 1864, aged eight years. Mr. and Mrs. Sanderson are members of the Methodist Church, with which they united years ago.

He has a farm of forty acres, situated three-fourths mile east of West Lancaster, on the Washington pike. He served about four months in the late war, Company G, 168tli 0. 'N. G., and is a Republican. When a young man, he taught school about six years, and is a highly respected citizen.

John C. Staubus

, John C. Staubus, farmer, Edgefield, is a native of Virginia, where his parents, Jacob and Rachel (Swatzel) Staubus now live. The father is a native of Germany, and came to the United States when three years of age. The mother is a native of Virginia where they were married, and reared a family of five children, John C. being the oldest.

Our subject was born February 2, 1843, and came to this state, in 1866, where he was married by Rev. R. Rose, to Miss Margaret Brock, daughter of Richard R. Brock, of this township, December 17, 1867 ; five children are the result of this union : Clem J., Luellu, Benjamin F., Jessie and James G.; all living.

Mr. Staubus has a farm of one hundred and twelve acres, well improved, situated one-half mile north of Edgefield, and farms to both grain and stock. He served four years in Company D, V, I., under Stonewall Jackson. His grandfather, Swatzel, served in the war of 1812.

James Straley

^ames Straley, grocer and grain dealer, Jefi'ersonville, is a son of Joseph Straley, and was born December 21, 1829, in this township. Though the educational facilities were limited then, he, in his boyhood, attained a good common school education, and began teaching at the age of sixteen years, and continued ten years. He was married, February 21, 1850, to Miss N'ancy A. Hogue, the only daughter of James Hogue, of Jasper Township, this county, who bore him two children: Margaret E., who married B. F. Coflt'man, of this county, and Benjamin F., who married a Miss Boyer of Kansas, Illinois. Mrs. Straley died, July 20, 1854. He then married Nancy Robison, December 15, 1855 ; seven children are the result of this union, two are living: Sarah E., who married Albert Booco, December 2, 1879, and James A., who is at home.

Mr. Straley has lived in this county all his life, and has been an oflicer of county or tow^uship for many years. He has held township ofiices of clerk and trustee of townships, and was elected county sherifi", in 1864, served two successive terms, and is a well and favorably known citizen who has many warm friends.

Samuel B. Straley

Samuel B. Straley, farmer and tile maker, Edgefield, is a son of Joseph Straley, who was born in Louis County, Virginia, December 10, 1796, where he was reared and lived until twenty-six years of age, then came to this county, and located one mile east of West Lancaster, where he lived an exemplary life, and where religious services were held at least twenty years, when there were no churches near. He was a member of the Methodist Church, and died triumphantly July 31, 1849. He and our subject's mother, Elizabeth B. Hamilton, were married April 30, 1818, and they both joined the church that j^ear. They had a family of fourteen children, eleven living. Mrs. Straley died, May 24, 1877.

Our subject was born, June 27, 1823, in Virginia, and came to this county with his parents in the same year. He was married, April 20, 1843, to Miss Julia A. Hid}', who bore him eight children, and died, April 17, 1861, a member of the Methodist Church. He then married Lydia A. Creamer, February 22, 1862 ; six children are the result of this union ; five living.

Mr. Straley was elected justice of the peace, in 1846, served three years, also served about four years as trustee of Jasper Township. He served four months, in Company G, 168th O. N. G., as lieutenant. He and his second wife are members of the Methodist Church.

He has a farm of fifty-eight acres, two miles west of West Lancaster, and has the oldest tile factory in the county on his farm. His brother, Jasper, was born in this county, December 3, 1835, where he was reared, educated, and married Miss Athaliah Ellis, May 14, 1857 ; nine children are the result of this union, eight living. Mrs. Straley died, January 30, 1881. They too were members of the Methodist Church. He served four months in the same company and regiment, as sergeant, that S. B, did.

He has a farm of one hundred and twenty-seven acres, three miles west of Jeff'ersonville, on the Jamestown pike, where he has a new tile factory. All the family are Republicans.

Emily W. Terrell

Emily W. (Parmer) Terrell, Jefi^'ersonville, is a daughter of William and Margaret (Whitsite) Parmer, who came to this county from Kentucky in 1814. Mr. Parmer was a native of Virginia, and died December 31, 1865, aged seventy-five years. Mrs. Parmer was a native of Kentucky, and died March 13, 1863, aged sixty-four years. They were members of the Universalist Church.

Our subject was born (January, 1815) in this couuty, where, on the 2d of January, 1834, she was married to Gilbert Terrell. He was engaged in the mercantile business in Jeft'ersonville for several years, after which he retired from active life. "He was born Octo- ber 1, 1808, and died August 18, 1874; having been a hale and hearty man all his life, up to the time of his death. Mr. and Mrs. Terrell were worthy and consistent members of the Universal ist Church, in which she still holds membership, strong in the faith. She has a farm of ninety-six acres, one-half mile west of Jeffersonville, and one of one hundred and thirty-five acres two and one-half miles west of town.

James Vannorsdoll

September 4, 1853, he was married to Miss Susanna Ilorney, daughter of Jefferson and Margaret Horney. Twelve children are the result of this union : Olarelda J., Lucy A., Garrett ()., Frank C, Mary M., James II., Forest A., Lillie B., EfKe F., Ernest E., Herbert, and one who died in infancy. Mary M. died at the early age of fourteen. Mr. and Mrs. Vannorsdoll are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, of Pleasant View.

He has a farm of three hundred and twenty-nine acres, well improved, situated four miles west of Jeffersonville, on the state road, and ninety-eight acres two miles west of town ; also, one-half interest in the home farm of one hundred and forty acres, situated one mile southeast of Jeffersonville.

He has served several consecutive years as trustee of this township. He has been successful in his business, and is well and favorably known throughout the township. When a young man he taught four terms of school.

Walter S. Wright

"Walter S. Wright, farmer, Jeffersonville, son of M. B. Wright, (whose histor}^ appears in this work,) was born in this township), March 28, 1832. On the 15th of April, 1860, he was married to Miss Nancy Allen* Four children are the result of this union : Olive M., Aimer A., Luc}^ P., and one Avho died in infancy.

In August, 1862, Mr. Wright enlisted in Company K, 44th O. V. I., at Washington. In 1864 the entire company enlisted in Company K, O. V. C, and served until the close of the war, when they were honorably discharged. He received an injury while in the service that will be a detriment to bim tbrougb life. Has a farm of sixty-eigbt acres, well improved, situated one and tbree-fourtb miles nortb of Jeffersonville.

Johnson W. Wright

Jobnson W. Wrigbt, farmer, Jeffersonville, is a son of James and Nancy (Jobnson) Wrigbt, wbo were natives of A^rginia. Tbey - were married in Ross County, tbis state, about 1802, and remained tbere a sbort time, and tben removed to Pike County, wbere Mrs. Wrigbt died in 1845, aged sixty-eigbt years. Mr. Wrigbt died in Illinois in 1842, aged about seventy-two years. Tbey bad a family of nine cbildren, all of wbom lived to maturity.

Our subject, wbo is tbe youngest, was born August 15, 1825, and bas been twi.ce married. December 22, 1852, be was married to Miss Mary E. Wrigbt, wbo bore bim one cbild, Cbarles W. Sbe died Marcb 15, 1866. On tbe 22d of June, 1868, be was united witb Miss Mary F. Carr. Two cbildren are tbe result of tbis marriage : Amy A. and Isy G. ; tbe latter died June 11, 1871.

Mr. Wrigbt bas a farm of forty-tive acres, well improved, situated one and one-balf mile nortb of Jeffersonville. Is a member of tbe Masonic fraternity of Jeffersonville. His second wife was a member of tbe Metbodist Protestant Cburcb.

Rebecca Wright

Rebecca (Carr) Wrigbt, Jeffersonville, was born in tbis county, Marcb 29, 1813. On tbe 2d of January, 1830, sbe was married to Matbias B. Wrigbt, wbo, witb a Mr. Horney, bougbt tbe land wbere Jeffersonville now stands, and laid out tbe town in 1830. Mr. Wrigbt died July 3, 1876, aged sixty-eigbt years. He was born in Ross County, Ohio, and came to tbis county with bis parents when about nine years of age. They bad a family of ten cbildren : Walter S., Mary E., Amanda J., Matbias K., Ruhama A., John M., William C, Sarah E., Frank M.* and one wbo died in infancy. Mary E., William C, and Amanda J., are deceased. Tbe surviving ones are all married.

Mathias K., born September 6, 1838, married Miss Maria L. Hooker, of Fairfield County, (born June 9, 1841,) on the 18th of April, 1861. He has a farm of one hundred acres, situated onehalf mile north of Jeffersonville. He is one of Fayette County's prominent stock dealers, and deals largely in Poland-China hogs, and fine sheep. Has taken several premiums at county fairs; also at the Tri-State Fair, Toledo, and the Southern Ohio Fair, Dayton.

Mrs. Wright lives in Jeffersonville. She and Mr. Wright were members of prominent pioneer families. The family is of good repute, and highly respected. Mrs. Wright, John, and Amanda are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. Wright and M. K. were members of the Universalist Church, where M. K. still retains his membership.

By reference to another part of this book, the specific history of the organization and boundary of Jasper Township will be found. Therefore, we shall begin with the original settlement, and trace its history through all its transitions from the first log cabin in the woods, to its present flourishing condition, with its system of drainage, excellent schools and splendid turnpikes.

The first settlement of this territory took place in 1809. In the spring of this year, Jacob and Joseph Coile emigrated from Pendleton County, Virginia, and located on a military claim, consisting of two thousand acres, belonging to their father, Gabriel Coile, who was a revolutionary soldier. Both Jacob and Joseph were married before leaving Virginia ; the former married a Miss Cullop, and the latter Sophia Roof. In 1814, both families removed to Indiana, near Indianapolis.

Jacob Hershaav

In about the same year, (1814,) Jacob Hershaw came from Virginia to this township, and located on the Coile claim, having traded a farm in Virginia for one hundred and sixty acres of this land ; the larger portion of which is within the present limits of Jasper Township, now the property of Wayne Wright. In 1818, he removed to Indiana and settled on land owned by his father-inlaw, Cullop.

Robert Burnett

Robert Burnett came from Pendleton County, Virginia, in 1810, and being a single man worked by the month till 1812, when he married Susan Bush, and squatted on government land. Six sons and five daughters blessed this union : Henry, John, Jesse, Elihu, Absalom, Mary, Jane and Susan.

He was a soldier in the war of 1812, belonging to a volunteer rifle company, whose captain was a Mr. Flesher. Mr. Burnett afterwards served as captain of a militia company.

After the organization of Jasper Township, he was elected to several of its offices, serving both as clerk and trustee. He subsequently was appointed road viewer by the county commissioners. Plis first wife dying in 1839, he, some time subsequently, married the widow of Jacob Coler. Captain Burnett was by profession a surveyor, and many of the county and township roads were laid out by him.

In 1813, after his first marriage, he leased a tract of land, of Mr. Bush, in Union Township, where he resided till 1821, when he removed to wild land which he had purchased of a Mr. Pendleton, of Virginia.

Captain Burnett enjoyed the distinction of being one of the most excellent and peaceable citizens, never having, at the age of eighty-three, indulged in a quarrel with a neighbor, or been a party to a law suit. He was a man of good habits, and his great longevity may have been due to some extent, to the fact that he never used tobacco in any form, and extreme moderation in the use of ardent spirits.

Leonard Bush

Leonard Bush was born in Pendleton County, Virginia, December 4, 1778, and came to Ross County, this state, in 1809, locating near what is now known as Convenience Station, on the D. & S. E. Railroad. He was married in Virginia, to Catharine powers, in 1803, and four children were born to them prior to their leaving that state. He remained only two years in Ross County, when in the spring of 1811, he removed to Jasper, locating on land now owned by James Beatty.

Mr. Bush bought one hundred acres of land from his father in Jasper, on which, in March, 1811, he erected a round log cabin, which he occupied without a floor till June of the same year, "With incessant labor, he cleared flfteen acres of land the first spring, which he planted in corn, breaking the ground with the old fashioned wooden mould board plow. After this, having built a shop soon after his arrival, he followed his trade of wheelwright for seventeen years in connection with his farming, when his son,

Jacob, on whom the management of the farming until now had largely devolved, marrying, he was compelled to devote his whole attention to his farm, which had then increased to three hundred

Jacob Bush

Jacob Bush, the oldest child of Leonard Bush, was born in Pendleton County, Virginia, in 1804, and accompanied his father to this township from that state. He remained with him till 1828, when he married Catherine Bond, of Union Township, who died, in 1838. A little more than a year afterwards, he was again married, to Lucy Leach, of Brown County, who is still living. Bj^ these marriages Mr. Bush became the father of eleven children ; two of which are living with their father at Jasper Mills.

Mr. Bush at one time owned an. extensive farm in Jasper Township, but a few years since he divided his property among his children ; reserving only a small homestead at Jasper Mills, which he is spending his declining years in improving and beautifying.

Jones Brooks

Jones Brooks, a Methodist Episcopal minister, in 1811 came from Virginia to Jasper Township. His time was occupied for several years in preaching and farming.

Jacob A. Rankin

Jacob A. Rankin came from Virginia in 1800, and settled on Salt Creek, in Ross County, where he remained two years, and then removed to near where Bloomingburg now stands. In 1821 he married Miss Carr, and removed to what is known as the John L. Persinger farm, near Plymouth. He afterVvards purchased land adjoining the Smith Rankin farm, where he died in 1876.

John Coons

The following was contributed to the Herald by Dr. Mason, of Milledgeville, and embraces the chief points in the life of a well known pioneer:

"One by one the old pioneers are dropping ott', lie wlio opened up and cleared the way for their future generations to reap the boundless benefits of progress and wealth, has laid down his armor of labor and taken on the garb of those long gone before. Hardly an issue of our county papers but gives instances of a similar kind. In a few short years, few indeed, will be left to gather their grandchildren around them, and tell the tale of Fayette Comity's early pioneer life, when the wild woods alone gave echo to his ax, and falling trees the answer to the ' meal-time hallo !' But such must be the constant march of years, fraught with the- many changes of the past, surrounding us. N'ot long hence can we look upon one of those gray and frosted fathers of early life, and listen to the tales of hardships and deprivations passed through, that the prairie might blossom, and the dense woods yield her now verdant fields of promising crops, to those that are left to occupy and further improve. Those that will follow after can only appreciate the merits of our early pioneers.

'- John Coons, or ' Uncle Johnny,' as he was familiarly called, has gone. He died June 6th, after a short ilhiess, leaving a family of three children beyond the age of fifty years - a daughter at Athens, O., one daughter at Allentown, O,, and a son living in Illinois - all blessed with plenty of this world's goods to make them comfortable through life.

"Uncle John was born at Fredericksburg, Virginia, in October, 1792, and his life of teens was spent in welding the old fiint.lock musket barrels at a government shop at Fredericksburg. He afterwards enlisted in the war of 1812, and served until peace was declared, when he remained a pensioner until death.

"He was married to Miss Hannah Jones, in 1820, and started for the 'Far West,' as it was then called, travelling in a wagon, through an almost impassable wilderness, with no one to shaim his lonely and perilous undertaking, save his newly made wife of but a few days. With due honor to her, we must say she proved to him to be a faithful helpmate and sheet-anchor in times of adversity and prosperity, until five years since she was called to prepare the way for waiting ones below, at the age of ninety-four, being ten years his senior.

" The land he spent his last days upon was bought by him over fifty years ago for about $3 per acre, and now the timber upon some of it could not be bought for $100 per acre ; and by his

" He never connected himself with any church, hut whenever sickness or affliction fell upon any within his neighborhood or reach, his hand and purse were always open to aid, and his presence at the sick bed was a friend indeed, watching through the long hours of night in the most contagious diseases ; he felt it a duty when others lacked the courage to give their services. His last moments were peaceful, and life seemed to gradually sift out as the sand of the hour glass, or the flickering light of a dying taper, and those who watched at the bedside could not but exclaim, 'AH is peace !' and one monument of byegone days less.

" Too much can not be said in credit to his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Rosa Coons. With more than childlike care and tenderness has she made his decline a path of comfort and ease, and no one will miss th« vacant chair and grandfather's cane more than she."

Solomon Smith

Solomon Smith was born in Pendleton County, Virginia, in 1802, and immigrated to Jasper in the early settlement of the territory, renting land from Henry Coile. He is still living in the township. Although eighty years of age, he is serving as constable, having flUed that office almost continuously for thirty-three years.

Avilliamson Furgeson

Williamson Furgeson was the pioneer settler of the Center neighborhood, in the southwestern portion of the township. In 1842, he purchased a tract of land from General James Taylor, of Kentucky, and removed to it the same year. Other settlers soon followed, and this section is fast developing into one of the most cultivated and flourishing of the township.

Stephen Mitchell Irvin

Stephen Mitchell Irvin was among the pioneers of Jasper Township. Captain William Palmer preceded him a few months. He settled in the southwestern corner of the county. His farm embraced portions of Clinton, Greene, and Fayette counties, which

In the year 1812, or 1813, Mr. Irvin, Captain Pahner, Biirwel B. Mills, and Griffith Foos, left Bourbon County, Kentucky, to seek a home in Ohio. They found the spot where the three first named parties settled, which they supposed was in Clinton County. They were pleased with the fertility of the soil, which they found covered with a dense forest. The timber was black walnut, oak, hickory, ash, and sugar maple, and in the more swampy laud, elm and maple. Mr. Foos, not liking so much timber, went to Clarke* County, bought a tract of laud, started a hotel, which he called " Travelers' Home," and laid out a village, which he called Springfield.

Mr. Irvin had been nuirried two or three years when he came to Ohio, having married Jane "Whitsett, a native of Kentucky, March 16, 1809. She was one of nine sisters, who hard an oniy brother, and they all lived to be heads of families.

Mr. Irvin's grandfather came from Ireland, lie had two sons - Andrew and William. At the ages of six and eight, the parents died, and the boys were separated. William went to Pennsylvania, Andrew remained in Virginia. The two brothers never met again.

Andrew, when he was grown to manhood, married Elizabeth Mitchell. They lived together for sixty-one years, and had a. family of six sons and four daughters. Robert, their oldest son, died in infancy. Stephen M., the subject of this sketch, was the next oldest. The other boys were named John, William, Caleb, and Joshua.

Andrew Irvin served in the war of 1812, and was in the battte of Oldtown. lie died in 1830. His wife survived him thirteen years, and died at the age of ninety-three.

When Stephen was eight years of age, his father emigrated to Kentucky, the family traveling all the way in a cart drawn by a single horse. This was in the fall of 1788. For many years they suffered the privations of pioneer life. Having no schools, the education of the family depended upon the parents. Fortunately, Mrs. Irvin was a good scholar for those times, and she undertook the education of the family, both in science and religion. Every Sunday evening was spent in reading the Bible and catechising the children. They were rigid Calvinists, and adopted the Presbyterian confession of faith and mode of worship. They were very strict in their religious observances, and labored hard to instill these principles into the minds of their children. In the case of Stephen they failed. He early became convinced of the sinfulness of human creeds, and protested earnestly against them. His mother wept over his apostacy. Soon, however, the creed was laid aside, and the Bible took its place.

The year 1800 was one of great religious interest in the part of Kentucky in which they lived. Barton W. Stone, the eminent revivalist of that country, and of those times, held a great meeting at Cane Ridge, and the Irvin family all became, identified with that movement. They afterward fell in with the reformatory movement, led by Alexander Campbell, and were all prominently connected with the Christian Church, known now as Disciples of Christ. Four of the five boys became preachers.

Stephen M. Irvin left Kentucky to seek his fortune in Ohio, where slavery was prohibited by laAv. He shuddered at the thought of raising a family where slavery existed. Determined to breathe the air of a free country, he came to Ohio, and in 1813 erected a cabin on his tract of woodland. He at first cleared a garden spot, and then went to work to change his wood land into a farm. He, in common with all the pioneers, sufifered many privations. Settlers were very few in that part of the state. Log cabins were the only houses. When one was to be raised, all the people for miles away were invited to the " house raising." Here Mr. Irvin became familiar a second time with the hardships common to a new country. The trials he had known in Kentucky were repeated here.

Mills Avere very scarce and distant. This made it necessary to make hominy for food. This was done by hollowing out the end of a solid block of wood. Into this a portion of corn was placed, and beat with a pestle. This was usually made by inserting an iron wedge in the pestle, which was made of wood. This hominy was a great luxury, and was very healthful food.

In the year 1833, on the 9th of May, Mr. Irvin was called to mourn- the loss of his wife, Mrs. Jane Irvin, in the forty-third year of her age. She died as she had lived, a Christian. The stroke was severe, but he bore it with resignation and humble submission to the Divine will. He was married April 16, 1835, to Mrs. Elizabeth Barrere. With her he lived the remainder of his life. He died July 25, 1852, in his seventy-second year.

He was a man of extraordinary patience and temper, and was hard to excite to impatience. He never allowed himself to become angry. He was identified with the educational and religious in terests of the neighborhood. During the latter part of his life he devoted much time to the subject of religion. He preached almost every Sunday, and was much devoted to the church. He never sought for public favor or notoriety. His aim was to do good. When death came, it came suddenly, but it found him ready. When told by Dr. I. C. Williams, his attending physician, that he could live but a short time, he replied : " I did not think death was so near ; but if it is God's will, it is mine." The doctor said to one of his sons: "Your father is a remarkable man. His hopes are brighter to-day than mine."

Burwell B. Mills

Burwell B. Mills was also a very early settler. He was twice married, and lived until his death in the coruer of Fayette County. He was an excellent man, and a good citizen. We have not been able to gather many of the incidents of his life.

The pioneers of Jasper enjoyed few educational advantages, and it was not till 1816 that the iirst school house was built in the township. This was a round log structure, with puncheon seats and greased paper window lights. It was built by the settlers, and was situated in tlie woods, on land belonging to Richard Ayres, in the Coil-Bush neighborhood.

Thomas Powell was the first teacher of the township, occupying this building in 1816, receiving a mere pittance for his services, compared with the present wages of teachers.

This building, however, was used only a short time for school purposes, when another, of similar architecture, but more conveniently located, was built about one mile east, on what is now the Richard Smith farm, then belonging to Abraham Bush.

Another school house was built on the Coons property, one mile south of Milledgeville, early in the settlement of Jasper, but we have been unable to get the date of its erection. This was occupied till 1837, when the educational wants of the neighborhood became so pressing as to require a more commodious structure ; and accordingly, in this year, a meeting of the citizens was called at the school bouse, to provide for this emergency. A division of opinion as to the proper place for locating the new building arose, resulting iii the erection of two buildings, one being located on what is now known as the John Rankin farm.

Joel Starbuck, of Clinton County, was the first teacher that occupied this building, teaching a subscription school during the winter of 1837.

The other was situated three miles south, on the old State road, now the Washington and Jamestown pike, on land belonging to Joseph Straley.

But prior to these, in 1828, a school house was built on land now in the possession of John L. Persinger. This was built of round logs, with desks running along each side, which were occupied by the pupils in writing.

John T. Powell, son of Thomas Powell, taught the first school in this building, receiving a compensation of ten dollars per month in produce for his services.

In 1845, a school house was built on the land of Williamson Furguson, in the Center neighborhood, Mr. Furguson donating the lot on which the building stood. This building was erected by the settlers, and a Miss Mary Jane Blystone, of Jefifersonville, occupied it first as teacher, the same year it was built, teaching a subscription school.

The early settlers of Jasper were pious and devout men and women, who believed in 'practwing religion rather than theorizing upon the subject. Their lives were of the purest order ; and although their creeds were few, and their faith of the simplest char- acter, yet they recognized the moral effect of a church society in the community, and this led to an organization early in the settlement of the township.

Methodist Episcopal

In 1812, James Brooks, a Methodist minister of Virginia, who is mentioned biographically in the above sketches, effected a church organization in the Coile-Bush neighborhood, and for many years served as the minister of the congregation, holding his meetings at the different houses in the communitj'; but it was not till 1843 that the society built a church. This, though a round log building, served the purposes of the people till 1864, when the present church (Mount Carmel), situated about one mile west of Jasper Mills, on the Washington and Wilmington Turnpike, and the same distance east of the old log church, was built. Mount Carmel is a commodious frame building, costing $1,200. The present minister is C. T. Wakefield.

Another Methodist Episcopal church was built in 1840, on what is now known as the Albert Mark land; and in 1843 this was followed by the erection of a similar structure on the Coons estate, then owned by John Hidy. They were both hewed log houses.

In 1846, another society was organized, which held its meetings in a school house a short distance south of Plymouth, formerly occupied by the Methodist Protestant society, till 1866, when the present brick church was built at Pl^-mouth, E. L. Ford donating the lot on which the church stands, and three hundred and fifty dollars to the society, to aid in its erection. The society at present is not flourishing.

A society was organized in the Center neighborhood, in 1848, and used the log school house on AVilliamson Furgeson's farm for church purposes till 1851 or 1852. The Methodist Protestants and Campbellites also held services in this school house, but neither denomination effected an organization.

iiigtoii, Oil the Palmer Pike. It was built at a cost of about $1,500, L. C. Mallow, William Dice, Zebulon Smith, and others, heading the subscription. Joel Dolby was the tirst minister, he being succeeded by Jason Hinkle, the present incumbent.

In 1845, the Methodist Protestant Church organized a society at Plymouth, which held its meetings at a school house, a short distance south of the village, Robert Dobbins serving as the first, and perhaps only, minister of the organization till its abandonment, in 1846.

Both the Methodist Protestants and Baptists have organized societies at Milledgeville this year (1881), but hold services in the schooh house near the village.

Plymouth

Plymouth, situated on the Palmer turnpike, at the terminus of the Merchant pike, is the oldest village of the township, and was laid out, in 1845, by Robert Hague.

The first building was erected by Garland Johnson, in 1845, and occupied the site of the present dwelling of E. L. Ford. Opposite this, Thomas Wright in the same year erected a hewed log dwelling, the first of the village, which is still standing in a much dilapidated condition.

Present Condition Of Plymouth

At present Plymouth has two blacksmith shops, one wagon shop, one store and one church, and contains a population of perhaps fifty or seventy-five inhabitants. The township house is situated here, at which the elections are held, and the business of the board of education and township trustees is transacted.

tioiied, opening in 1845, and continuing till the fall of the same year, when he disposed of his stock of goods and building to James McWhorter, who, in 1846, sold both his stock of goods and store room to E. L. Ford.

In 1848, Harvey Saunders built a store room, on lot number eight, which he occupied, till about 1849, when E. L. Ford purchased both stock and building, which he still owns and occupies.

In 1845, Tate Wright built a shop and carried on business about one year, when he sold out to Thomas Wright, who continued a short time. At present there are two blacksmith shops at Plymouth, owned by Joseph Miller and his son, Charles ; both opening in 1878.

Wagon Shops

Dr Hazen came to Plymouth, in 1846, but his sojourn was brief, as it was soon discovered that the woman he passed as his wife bore no such legal relations to him, and the indignant citizens of Plymouth and vicinity, not wishing to compromise the honor and dignity of their village and community, by tolerating the presence of such a citizen, met and notiiied him to depart forthwith, which he did, fearing the consequence of a longer stay.

The uext physician of Plymouth was Dr. Spangler, who came from Milledgeville, in 1870. He bought property and remained till 1881, when he traded his property for a house and lot at Milledgeville, where he removed March 1st, of the same year.

Jasper Mills

Washington, was nev'er legally laid out as a town ; but in 1854, shortly after the completion of the railroad, the Bryan Brothers, Samuel, Joseph and John, purchased five acres of land here of Jacob Bush, on which, in the same year, they erected a three story frame grist mill, which proved a nucleus for a cluster of cottages ; known first as "Jasper," but which, in 1858, took its present name from the brand of fiour shipped from these mills, and probably to distinguish the postotfice at this place from the name of the township.

The Bryan Brothers operated the Jasper Mills for several years ; in 1859, adding a sash sawing attachment, which subsequently gave place tathe present buzz or circular saAv. The changes of ownership this property has undergone since its erection have been numerous ; the dates of which we are unable to give, but the following is a list "of the names of the difi'erent proprietors in their order since passing from the Bryans. Bryans sold to Roctgers, Rodgers to Keller, Keller to Hunt, and Hunt to the present owners, Struble and Company.

Some years ago a corn shelling attachment was added by a Mr. Guthrie, of Baltimore, who shortly afterward sold to Ely, of Washington, Avho in turn sold to Tolbert & Co., of Washington, who are still operating it and shipping an extensive quantity of grain, both wheat and corn, from this point.

In 1859, John S. Burnett and Samuel Bryan opened a store, at Jasper Mills, under the firm name of " Burnett & Bryan," in a building erected by the Bryans, in 1855. Burnett sold his interest, in 1869, to James G. Beatty, and the firm of "Beatty & Bryan" continued business till 1861, when the entire business of these, gentlemen were purchased by Br. Degroat, who had the misfortune, in 1862, of losing his stock of goods and building by fire.

In 1863, J. L. Mark re-built on the site of the burnt building, and kept dry goods and groceries till 1871, then sold out to J. S. Burnett & A. E. Silcott, who, in 1874, disposed of their interests to Miller & Clark. This firm failed in less than a year, and the building has since then been occupied by Charles L. Bush, the present merchant of Jasper.

Ill 1857, Joseph Parkisoii bought a lot on which he built a residence and blacksmith shop, continuing till 1868, then selling to Smith & Jenkins, who carried on business till 1870, when they dissolved partnership. Smith building another shop, in which he worked till 1878, at this time abandoning the business. In this year C. L. Bush and Charles Duncan erected a shop, which is still in operation.

Avagon Shops Shoe Shop

Milledgeville, a pleasant little village of perhaps two hundred inhabitants, is situated on the Dayton & Southeastern Railroad, at the crossing of the Palmer pike, one mile north of Plymouth. It was laid out by James Ilogue in 1855.

It contains one mill, two groceries, one hotel, two physicians, one boot and shoe store, one restaurant, a post-office, and one large store, owned by Lamb & Murph}^ Brothers, in which is kept a full line of dry goods, groceries, hardware, drugs, boots and shoes, queensware, and agricultural implements.

The town is improving rapidly under the impetus of the early construction of the proposed Columbus & Maysville Railroad, which makes this village a business point; and several buildings are now in course of erection.

erected in 1855, by Straley, Creamer & Co., who operated it until sometime in the year 1858, when they disposed of it to Dolerhide, Jackson & Co., who continued it only a short time, and sold out the property to Elias Straley. Straley remained in business little more than a year, when the mills came into the possession of Shafer & Allen, and was owned and operated by them till 1869. In this year Shafer died, but the property remained in the hands of Allen until 1870, when he .sold to Jaral & Grove, the present owners.

The iirst store-room was built by Jacob Creamer, in 1856, who continued in business only about two years. I^o more goods were sold at Milledgeville till 1878, when a building was erected by C. M. Bush, and a stock of goods brought on.

In 1879, G. L. McAllister built the first brick store-room in the place. It remained unoccupied for some time, and after being refitted was opened by a Mr. Culbertson.

C. M, Bush, in 1879, opened a hotel at Milledgeville, and continued until 1880, when he was succeeded by Joseph Rush, who remained in business till 1881. In the spring of this year Dr. Spangler purchased the property, which he has refitted, and now offers first-class entertainment to the traveling public.

In 1869 W. E. King opened the first blacksmith shop, in a building erected by himself for that purpose. He continued in business for three years, when he was succeeded by Ely McClery, who remained two years, being succeeded by Mr. Phillips, whose stay was brief, as was also that of North, his successor.

At present Milledgeville has two physicians, Drs. Spangler and Mason. The former located in 1870, remained a short time, then removed to Plymouth, where he practiced until 1881, when he removed to Milledgeville, where he is still practicing with marked success. Dr. Mason located in Milledgeville in 1878, and has an active, lucrative, and steadily increasing practice.

Shoe Shops

In 1867 Frank Smith came from Virginia and located in Milledgeville, buying a lot, on which he erected, a dwelling and shoe shop, where he is at present in business.

Avagon Shop

Allendale, a station on the D. & S. E. R. R., at its junction with the C. W. & C. R. R., was laid out by Elijah Allen, after whom it took its name, in 1876 ; of whom Mr. William Allen purchased the first lot sold, on which he erected a frame dwelling.

A grocer}' was opened by John Rankin in 1877, who continued till March, 1878, when he was succeeded by George Hinkle, who closed in 1879. It was not till the following year that another store was opened. In 1880 Alfred Matthews and Mr. Glass each brought on a stock of goods, and remain in business.

Frank Stone opened a hotel in May, 1880, in rented property, but in the fall of the same year he built a house, which he now occupies for hotel purposes.

Mills And Elevators

F. C. Trebein, of Xenia, in 1880, erected a large frame elevator, in which a set of burrs for grinding corn are operated. An extensive grain shipping business is carried on at this point.

Edgefield And Pearson'S

These points are stations. The former one mile northwest of Allentown, on the D. & S. E. R. R., and the latter on the C. W. & C. R. R., at the extreme western limits of the township. A store is conducted at each of these places.

Post-Offices

A post-office was established at Plymouth in about 1850, E. L. Ford being appointed the first postmaster. He retained the position until 1870, when he was succeeded by J. T. Ileiser, who held the office till it was removed to Milledgeville, (where it still remains) in 1878. Smith Rankin received the appointment at that time, and still holds the position.

A post-office was established at Jasper Mills, shortly after the completion of the C. & M. V. R. R., Samuel Bryan being appointed postmaster. This office was removed, in 1875, into Concord Township, and the name changed from Jasper Mills to Seldon; but

Organization Of Jasper

It will be found, by reference to another portion of this work, that Jasper Township was organized, in 1845, from portions of Jefferson and Concord.

John L. Barnes

John L.Barnes, farmer and stock dealer, is a native of Pickaway County, and a son of David and Margaret {Shannon) Barnes. He was born September 14,1843, and was reared and educated in Pickaway County, and came to Fayette in September, 1857, where he married Miss Sarah L. Ford, daughter of E. L. Ford, whose biography appears in this work. May 7, 1867. Seven children are the result of this union : Estella, Roscoe, Clara, Pearl, John L. (deceased), Harry, and an infant yet unnamed.

Mr. Barnes has a farm of two hundred acres, well improved, situated on the south of Milledgeville, on which he lives, and farms to both grain and stock. He is a member of Washington Lodge, F. & A. M. He served in the one hundred days' service during the late war. Politically, he is a Democrat, and has served as trustee of this township since 1879. Some years since he was engaged in shipping live stock to New York and Philadelphia, but of late has done comparatively little shipping.

James Coil

James Coil, farmer, was born in Union Township, this county, December 1, 1840. "When about two years of age, his parents - Elias and Mahala Coil - came to this township, where the father died, in August, 1878, and the mother still lives. They had a family of ten children, three of whom are living.

James, the eldest, was married. May 31, 1866, to Miss Sallie M. Sanderson, who has borne him five children : Emily J., John, Elias, Sarah E., and Russie E.; all living save Ehas, Avho died January 27, 1876.

Mr. Coil has a farm of two hundred and forty-nine acres, where he lives, and sixty and one-fourth acres four miles east. He has bought seventy-one acres of this by his own industry and economy. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. They are good neighbors and respected citizens.

Elias Coil

Elias Coil, deceased, was born in 1814, on Sugar Creek, in Union Township, and was married, September 20, 1839, to Mahala Rankin, daughter of Thomas Rankin, who was born February 18, 1818, in Jasper Township. Her mother was Barbara Foltz; her husband's mother Mary House, born November 15, 1789, and died February 17, 1866. Th5y were both natives of Virginia.

The union was blessed by ten children : James, Simon, Mary, Susan, Samuel, Amos, Emily, Elizabeth J., Sarah, and Christina. Elizabeth J., James, and Sarah, are living; the others have passed to the other shore.

The family is connected with the Protestant Methodist Church, and attend services at the Sugar Creek Chapel. He was an exemplary Christian, and died in the faith very triumphantly, August 5, 1878. His wife and children follow in his footsteps.

His son Simon enlisted in Company A, 54th O, V. I., and was out nearly three years. He was wounded at the battle of Shiloh, and upon recovering returned to the field, but lost his health, and departed this life three weeks after his return home. He was but nineteen years of age when he went out, but was brave and patriotic, and deserves mention as being one of the many who gave up their lives that the country might live.

The heirs of our subject own one thousand acres of land, a portion of which is in Union Township. Mrs. Coil resides in a neat residence on the Palmer pike, four and a half miles from Washington. Mr. Coil was a Republican, and the family still indorse his sentiments.

Of the children, Mary, wife of Jacob Warner, is now decea,sed; Janies is married to Sallie M. Sanderson; Emily, wife of Thomas Garlinger, is also deceased; Sarah is now Mrs, Martin A. Plymire.

Jones Coons

Jones Coons, deceased, is a sou of John Coons, wdio was born in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and whose ancestors were from Germany. Prior to his marriage he came to this county, selected a location, and lived there till his death.

Our subject was born October 5, 1824, on Indian Creek, Fayette County, and was principally reared on the place, in this township, now owned by his heirs, and was a farmer by occupation. He was married. May 3, 1871, to Rosa Gannan, daughter of John and Anna Gannan, who were born and married in Ireland. Mrs. Coons was born on the "briny deep," September 26, 1842. Her mother died about two years after her birth. Her father lived in Kew York, where he died in 1862, or 1863.

The union of Mr. and Mrs. Coons was blessed by two children : Jacob and Mary M. He went out. during the late war, being a member of the Home Guard, and assisted in driving the rebel forces from our borders. He was a Republican, but did not seek office. He was an honest and upright citizen, and departed this life May 12, 1874. His wife and children occupy the old homestead, located near Milledgeville, on the Washington and Jamestown pike, the total number of acres owned by the heirs being four hundred and sixteen. He farmed to grain and stock with good success. The father of our subject died June 6, 1881, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years. The heirs of father and son endeavor to perpetuate the good name.

James W. Fichthorn

was born in 1763, and married Magdalene Harpole, who bore him five children, of whom Samuel, the third, was born in 1808, December 29th, in Pendleton County, Virginia, and came to Ohio with his parents in 1813, settled in Ross County, and came to the farm he now occupies in 1883. In 1836 he married Anna Maria Ilogue, whoj^ore him six children : John P., James, Robert, Samuel, Eliza, and Melinda. Both parents are living.

The subject of this sketch was born on his father's farm. May 30, 1842, where he was reared, educated, and married, December 13, 1866, to Sarah Shafer, daughter of John Shafer. She was born in Clifton, Greene County, Ohio. The union was blessed by four children : Clara, Elsie, and twins, who died in infancy. In 1862 he enlisted in Company K, 90th O. V. I., and remained in the service till the regiment was mustered out, participating in all the battles. He received a slight wound at Chickamauga, but continued in the service. He was a brave and gallant soldier, and contracted poor health, from which he still suifers. He cleared seventy-three acres on his father's farm, near Milledgeville, and improved and ditched the same, bringing it to a high state of cultivation, and farms to grain and stock.

Samuel W. Fichthorn

Samuel W. Fichthorn, is a son of Samuel and Ann Fichthorn, and was born in this county, March 31, 1850, where he was reared, educated, and married Miss Mary A. Ford, daughter of E. L. Ford, whose biography appears in this work. They have two surviving children : Charles R. and Zella M., and one Clide M. who died, J^ovember 21, 1880, aged thirteen months.

Mr. Fichthorn has a farm of thirtj^-oue acres, also has control of one hundred acres of his father-in-law's farm. He farms to both grain and stock. He is not an aspirant to otfice, consequently has held none of the county offices. He is a Republican, and a highly respected citizen who has many friends.

E. L. Ford

E. L. Ford, merchant, farmer and stock dealer, Milledgeville, was born in Cumberland County, Maine, September 20, 1819, where he was educated in the common schools and neighboring seminaries till fourteen years of age, when he began teaching, and continued until 1841, and then came to Hamilton County, this state, and taught till 1843. He married Miss Martha M, Snider, daughter of General John Snider, of Hamilton County, June 4, 1843. Mrs. Ford was born September 16, 1825. Seven children are the result of this marriage ; four sons and three daughters. Soon after marriage, Mr. Ford engaged in the mercantile business for two years, and shortly after followed stock trading. He took two droves of horses to Boston, Massachusetts, riding the whole distance on horseback.

In 1846, he came to South Plymouth, where he now lives, and drove team for a time, buying country produce, hauling it to Cincinnati, seventy miles, and purchasing a load of staple goods for a back load.

The first land he bought was one hundred acres, at $18.00 per acre. He has since bought at prices ranging from $18.00 to $70.00 per acre. He now has a farm of more than fourteen hundred acres, all in a good state of cultivation, well fenced, well watered and well stocked. He deals largely in sheep, cattle and hogs, and has held the office of township trustee for years.

In 1872, he was elected commissioner of this county and served one term. He served several years as director of the Merchants and Farmers Bank of Washington, and is liberal to the support of churches, schools and other public improvements. He and his wife are members of the Universalist Church.

Williamson Furgison

Williamson Furgison, farmer, Milledgeville, is a native of Virginia, born March 10, 1812, and came to this state, in 1832, located in Clinton County, where he was married, September 5, 1835, to Miss Elizabeth Tharp, who bore him four sons and four daughters, all living except Joshua, who died in the service of the late war, 54th Regiment, under Captain Yeoman. He was wounded by a bursting shell, which resulted in his death. Calip, Joseph and Zacariah (younger sons), also served in the war. Joseph enlisted at the beginning of the war and served till its close. Mrs. Furgison died, October, 1849. He then married Jemimah Rankin, JN^ovember, 1858, who hasB borne him three daughters and two sons, all