Fayette County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 5 of 10)

In the campaign following the battle of Pittsburg Landing, Sherman's old division, of which the 54th constituted a part, was engaged at Corinth, Yazoo Bottoms, Arkansas Post, Champion Hills, and the siege of Vicksburg, and after the surrender of Vicksburg, marched to the assistance of the Army of the Cumberland at Chattanooga. They arrived in time to witness Hooker's battle above the clouds on Lookout Mountains, and to take a part in the storming of Missionary Ridge. From Chattanooga they marched to the relief of Burnside, at Knoxville, and compelled the enemy to raise the siege. January 4, 1864, the 54th 0. V. L, became by reason of re-enlistment the 54th 0. V. V. I., and were granted a furlough of thirty days. When his leave of absence had expired, Mr. Rowe joined his command at Larkinsville, Alabama, and was with his regiment during the Atlanta Campaign until captured by the enemy, in front of Atlanta, July 22, 1864. While in the hands of the enemy, he was confined in the prison-pens at Andersonville, Charleston, and Florence. March 4, 1865, he was paroled, and received his final discharge June 8th.

After returning to civil life, he attended school for two years, and then engaged in mercantile pursuits for ten years, and is at present tilling the soil. He has served the people of this township as clerk and treasurer, and is now the candidate of his party (Republican) for county treasurer. His wife, garah J., daughter of T. J. Craig, to whom he was married December 28, 1870, was born September 19, 1849. Three children have been the result of this union ; two of whom survive : the eldest, Alva O., born November 6, 1871, died August 5, 1872; Maiza J., born September 18, 1875 ; and Will, born January 23, 1878.

Hugh Swift

Hugh Swift, farmer, was born in the north of Ireland, in 1808, and emigrated to America in 1820. He settled in York County, Pennsylvania, where he remained until 1836, when he removed to Wayne County, Ohio, and from thence, in the following year, to his present location in this township.

In 1856 he married Mary Jane Grifiith, of Highland County, Ohio, who has borne him four children : John G., born January 16, 1857; Harriet A., born October 22, 1858; William, born September 24, 1860; Benjamin F., born October 22, 1867.

Perry Township was cpmposed of portions of Green and Wayne in 1845, a full account of which is given in another part of this work. The settlement of this territory, however, extends into the past perhaps as far as any part of the county, reaching back to 1804.

In 1796, Jonathan Wright, no doubt the first settler in Perry Township, emigrated from Kentucky to Chillicothe, where he remained till 1804, squatting then on land within the present limits of Perry, which belonged to a Mr. C. Monroe, of Virginia, who owned a military claim (No. 658), consisting of two thousand acres, granted for services as an officer in the Revolutionary War. Wright remained on this land till the following 3'ear, when he removed to Wayne Township, and shortly afterward died.

In 1805, John Buck, of Virginia, bought a part of the Monroe claim, on which he moved in the same year, occupying the same farm till his death, which occurred in 1830.

Isaac Todhunter, a member of the Society of Friends, sharing the proverbial hatred of his sect to the institution of slavery, in order to remove his family from its baneful influences, emigrated from Lost Creek, Tennessee, in December, 1804, stopping with his sons, Isaac and liichard, who had preceded him the spring previous, and squatted on a small prairie, the site of Leesburg, Highland County, where they had raised a patch of corn to support the family the first year. Here they remained till the spring of 1805, when Mr. Todhunter purchased twelve hundred acres of land of Nathaniel Massie (Survey No. 2620), on Walnut Creek, in the southwestern part of the township, to which he immediatel}^ removed his family, selling in the meantime six hundred acres to Thomas and Mordecai Ellis, also of Tennessee, who at once settled on their possessions.

Isaac Todhunter, married Eachel Jnry, of Chester County, Pennsylvania, by whom he had six children : liichard, John, Isaac, Jury, Abner and Jacob. He remained on this land till his death, in 1821; his wife surviving him ten years.

The following thrilling incident was related by Amos Todhunter, relative to the early experiences of his father, Abner, in the early days of Perry : '

About the year 1806, when the sight of an Indian presaged bloodshed and horrid torture, Abner, a youth of fifteen, was sitting in his father's cabin with several younger children, the father and mother being absent on a visit, when he ol)served six painted savages approaching on horseback. Though accustomed to danger, he felt his hair begin to raise as the warriors dismouiited and entered the house. With that presence of mind, however, produced by long exposure to danger and sudden alarms, he received them cahnly, and remembering the characteristic gratitude of the Indian, he invited them to sit down, and placed before them the best the larder contained, and then retired while they enjoyed the repast. When they had finished, one of the band arose and approached him, which a second time almost paralysed him with fear, and caused his hair again to assume the perpendicular. Giving himself up for lost, he tremblingly awaited the issue; but instead of cleaving his head with the tomahawk, or circling his blood}^ knife around his scalp, he allayed his fears by kindly patting him on the head, exclaiming " white man heap good, feed Indian " and mounting their horses they rode oft', much to the relief of the frightened youth.

Samuel and Warnel Tracy were among the early pioneers of Perry, coming from Maryland as early as 1807, and settling on land now in possession of T. G. Cockerill and Joseph Tracy.

In about 1808, Robert Adams came from Sherman's Valley, Pennsylvania, and settled on five hundred acres of land, which he purchased in Ball's survey, probably from Ball's agents; the Virginia Legislature having, in 1805, at Ball's death, appointed two agents, or commissioners, to settle his estates in this state, from vhose transactions vexatious law suits resulted in after years.

of Seth Smith, now in possession of T. G. Cockerill. He married Charlotte Stites, in New Jersey, in 1799, and seven children followed this union: Sallie, Deborah, Charlotte, James, William, Silvitha and Mar\' Ann. He early indentitied himself with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was the founder of Methodism at Cochran Chapel.

John Hutton, a Quaker, in 1810, emigrated from near Briseland's Cross-roads, Beaver County, Pennsylvania, and settled on land now owned by Calvin Beatty, to whom he sold out his interest, in 1822, and removed to near South Charleston, Clarke County.

John Daster, was born in Frederick County, Virginia, and emigrated to Chillicothe, in 1810, where he remained three mouths, when he bought land in the McKee survey, of Seth Smith, Mc- Kee's agent, now in possession of Henry Lymes, to which he soon removed. He was married before leaving Virginia ; his wife's maiden name being Lydia McIS'ace ; five children from this marriage grew^ to maturity : Lewis, Henry, Rebecca, Maria and John. He died in 1840, some years after the death of his wife.

Henry Snider was a native of Virginia, and inmiigrated to this county, from that state, in 1810, settling on land which he purchased of Samuel Waddle. He reared a family of seven children, four boys and three girls.

The Conner and Voltenburg families, in 1813, squatted in Perry Township, the former on land now in possession of Anderson L'ion, and the latter on land now owned by T. G. Cockerill. Conner run a small distiller} on the banks of Paint Creek. Both famiUes left in 1825.

Samuel Edwards came from Ross in 1812, and purchased a farm, a part of which is now in the hands of Manuel Pernell, the remainder being owned by W. A. King, except fourteen acres, reserved for the two maiden daughters, Ehzabeth and Tabitha, on which the}' reside, the eldest, being seventy-one years of age. Mr. Edwards married Mary A. Roberts before leaving Ross, by whom he had twelve children, seven'^boys and five girls.

Robert Irion was a native of South Carolina. At the age of twenty, he emigrated to western Virginia, M'here he for seven years followed his profession of surveyor, locating claims for soldiers of the Revolutionary,. War. He first, after leaving western Virginia, located in Brown'^County, Ohio. From Brown he went to Pickaway, and settled in Fayette, in 1814, on land purchased from Thomas

Iline, of Chillicotlie, which is locjitod on the banks of Sugar Creek, in Perry Township, and which he sold to William Snyder, in 1848. He married Nancy Bft,lentine in western Virginia, in 1796, by whom he had sixteen children, four of whom died in infancy. Twelve grew to maturity : John, William, Francis, Achilles, Anslem, Nancy, Anderson, Harrison, Silas, Milton, and Mary. He was married four times, and resided in difi'erent parts of the state until his death, which took place at his daughter's, Mrs. Howard Mooney, in Highland County, three miles below Greenfield, in 1848.

John Orr, sen., was born in Virginia, and removed first to Kentucky, thence to Fayette County, in 1817, or 1818, settling on land in Wayne Township, now in the possession of a Mr. Templar. He bought land of William Bush, on Sugar Creek, at the crossing of the Martinsburg pike, in Perry Township, to which he removed in the spring of 1819. This land is now owned by his son John. Mr. Orr married Rachel Vance, in Harrison County, Kentucky, in 1805, and six children were born to this union: Samuel, Eleanor' Ann, John, William V., Elizabeth, and Anderson J. He died in May, 1856.

John Beard was here prior to 1818, and owned land now in the possession of Isaac Johnson. His wife died in 1819, he surviving her only till 1821.

Robert Anderson was one of the prominent farmers and pioneers of Perry, who was born in Goochland County, Virginia, on the James River, in 1795. He accompanied his father and family to Louisa County, Virginia, in 1805, and in 1816 he immigrated to Buckskin Township, Ross County, where he remained till 1819, when he came to Perry, in the same year marrying Sarah Rowe, daughter of Jesse Rowe, sen., who gave the young couple one hundred acres of land at their marriage. He was a man of prudence, industry, and economy, and before his death had accumulated one thousand acres of land, a considerable portion of which was in a high state of cultivation and improvement. Previous to his death, however, he had disposed of a part of his land, and in 1876 made an equal distribution of his moneys and landed estates among his three surviving children, Isaac, Matthew, and Jane - John, the youngest, having died some years previous, at the age of twentytwo - each receiving eleven thousand dollars. By this division, Matthew came into possession of the original home farm, which he still owns. It is situated on the Little Wabash, in the northern part of

Perry, perhaps the most fertile and healthy portion of the township, if not of the ^ounty. He was a most excellent citizen, and did much for the canse of religion, being, perhaps, one of the original members of the Methodist Episcopal society at Rowe's Chapel, if not of the society prior to the building of the church. He served also in the war of 1812. His death, occurred at the home farm, in 1878.

Eobert Scott settled on land located on the Little Wabash, now OAvned by Rev. William A. King. He was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Perrj" in 1820.

William S. Cockerill was born in Louden County, Virginia, in December, 1790, and immigrated to Ohio in 1812, settling first on the Ohio River, just above its junction with the Hocking, where he resided till 1821, when he came to Perry, and purchased land of John Rowe, son of Jesse Rowe, sen., on which he remained one year. He afterward bought land of Mr. Conner, on the Little Wabash, now owned by his son, Thomas G. Cockerill and sons.

Mr. Cockerill was married four times, and was the father of eighteen children, nine by each of his first two wives. His first wife was Anna Ledmon, whom he married in Virginia, in 1809, and who died in 1821, shortly after his arrival in Perry. In the following year he married Phoebe Mooney, daughter of Judge Mooney; but she dying in 1855, he afterward married her sister Eliza. He was a man of literary tastes, and considerable intellectual abilities, and for several years followed the profession of teaching in connection with his farming. At his death he owned four hundred acres of excellent land, most of which is at present in the hands of his son-in-law, T. G. Cockerill, and his grandsons, the heirs of Mr. Cockerill.

Rev. John King, one of the founders of Methodism in Fayette County, was born at Elmyra, New York, March 6, 1786, and married Rachel Hixon, of the same county, February 12, 1808, who was born April 12, 1792. After leaving ISTew York, he settled first in Ross County, in the same year of his marriage, where he remained till 1816, thence removing to Perry, on land now in possession of his son. Rev. W. A. King, where he resided till his death.

Mr. King was an earnest and devout Christian, having at an early period of his life united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, shortly after which he was soundly converted to God, while riding on horseback, on his way from church. His con version \yas clear and powerful, as was demonstrated by a long life devoted to the work of Ills Master, He organized a Methodist society, or class, at his house as early as 1820, wliich he led for several years. He was ordained a deacon in the Methodist Episcopal Church, in 1834, by Bishop Soule, which office he held till 1843, when the honor of elder was conferred upon him by the same bishop. But prior to this, in 1829, he had been licensed to preach by John Collins,

The death of his first wife was attended with sad circumstances. She dropped dead in the road from her horse, while returning from church, December 19, 1843. On April 24, 1845, he married Alcina Cherry, who died in 1878,

Outside of his Christian life, Mr, King was a useful and valued citizen. He served in the war of 1812, and proved a" brave soldier. After he settled in Perry, he taught school several winters in his own house, charging nothing for tuition. He died on his farm, in 1868, much lamented by the church, and the people of Perry and adjoining townships, for whose spiritual and temporal welfare he had spent a long and useful life.

Gershom Perdue was born in Bedford County, Virginia, in the year 1790. He is a grandson of Dr, William Perdue, whose father was a native of France. He moved to Ireland, where his son William embraced the doctrine of the Society of Friends. He was a physician by profession. About the year 1740 he came to America, and settled in Chester County, Pennsylvania. A few years later he married Susanna Headen, a widowed daughter of Moses Pirn, and granddaughter of John Pirn, of Mount Melick, Ireland, one of the first and most prominent converts to Quakerism in Ireland,

Dr. William Perdue had two sons, named Folliard Eidgway and Mentor Pirn. Folliard was a ship-builder, and resided in Philadelphia. He had one son, William, and two daughters, Sarah and Margaret. He died in rather early life.

Mentor Pim Perdue, the father of Gershom, was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, in the year 1751. He was highly educated for his day,, and was a school teacher and surveyor by profession. He married Jemima Farlow, daughter of William Farlow, of Londonderry, Ireland. He lived near to the battle-ground at Brandywine, Pennsylvania, and for three days assisted in collecting the dead bodies and burying them. He was an exemplary Christian member and elder in the Society of Friends, In the year 1790, he moved, with his family, to Bedford County, Virginia, and died there in the year 1797.

His son Gershom being then about seven years of age, lived with his widowed mother until his eighteenth year, when he went as an apprentice to the tanning business. In the year 1813, he moved, with his mother and family, to Highlaiul County, Ohio, and followed tanning for several years. The arduous labor connected with tanning being too laborious for hh not rugged constitution, he commenced merchandising, and continued in that business for several years. He was also among the first nurserymen and fruit-growers in southern Ohio, having established a nursery in Leesburg in the year 1816.

In the year 1818, he married Elizabeth Dukemineer, of Warren County, Ohio, and in the year 1822 he lost his wife, leaving an infant daughter, Hannah. In 1825, he married a second wife, named Abigail Morse, of Urbana, Ohio. She was a daughter of Ephraim and Elizabeth Morse, of Tuckerton, New Jersey, a relative of the late Professor Samuel Morse, and a descendant from the first settlers at Oyster Bay, on Long Island.

In 1836, he removed, with his family, to New Martinsburg, Fayette County, Ohio, at which place he has resided to the present time, being near the close of his ninety-first year. His wife, Abigail, died in the year 1878, in the eighty-second year of her age, having lived in near religious fellowship with her husband, and shared with him the vicissitudes of life for -fifty-three years.

From early life it has been Mr. Perdue's greatest desire to live an exemplary Christian life, and for many years past he has occupied the station of an elder, and has been earnestly engaged in the afli'airs of his church, and for the upbuilding and growth of the Church of Christ.

The little colony, Society of Friends, previously mentioned, consisting of Isaac Todhunter, Thomas and Monlica Ellis, and David Dutton, settled in Perry, in the spring of 1805, and shortly afterward began holding informal meetings in a building on the corner of Mr. Todhunter's yard ; but it w\as not till 1809 that the little society received grant to establish a subordinate meeting. According to the discipHne of the Friends' Church, no branch can be established without the consent and recognition of the Superior Meeting, within whose jurisdiction such branch is instituted. Previous to 1809, the Yearly Meeting, at Mount Pleasant, had granted the establishment of a Quarterly Meeting at Fairfield, Highland County, from which permission was in turn received, to establish a Subordinate Meeting, and build a church on a lot donated for the purpose by Isaac Todhunter, which took the name of Walnut Creek Church, from the stream on whose banks it stands, and which is now a Subordinate Meeting of the Hopewell Monthly Meeting. There is a membership of two hundred in this society, part of whom, however, reside in Highland County.

The first Methodist Episcopal society, was organized at Jesse Rowe's house, in 1816, at which services were held till 1834, when Mr. Rowe built Rowe's Chapel, on land belonging to himself. David Garringer, a carpenter, who came here at a very early period in the history of the township, performed the Avork. Elias Brakefield now owns the land on which the church stood. This building was not abandoned for church purposes, until a very few years prior to the death of Robert Anderson, who for many years previous to this event held up the society.

The Methodist Episcopal organization, within the limits of Perry, was effected by the Rev. John King, at his house, in 1820, on land now occupied by George Lynch, but in the possession of Rev. W; A. King, son of John King. Services were held at the difi'erent houses of the neighborhood, and at a log school house that stood on the banks of Sugar Creek, near the bridge at the crossing of the Martinsburg pike, till 1851, when the society erected Sugar Grove Chapel, a frame structure, at a cost of eight or nine hundred dollars.

The Cochran Methodist Episcopal organization, was an ofishoot from the Rowe organization, and took place in 1819 or 1820, at the house of Barnabas Cochran, who afterwards donated a lot to the society, on which a hewed log church was built. This building was occupied for church purposes till 1851, when the erection of the present frame building, on the site of the old log church, was

The next organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was effected at Martinsburg, prior to 1836, by Robert Buck, services being held at an empty store room, belonging to this gentleman, and at the house of Thomas Fishbnek, till 1838, when a log church was built on a lot donated by Mr. Buck to the society. The present frame building was completed some years later.

We are indebted to Rev. W. A. King for the above list, and much other valuable information, in connection with the history of the Methodist Episcopal Church ; not only in Perry Township, but throughout the country. Mr. King has spent a great deal of time in collecting statistics regarding the Methodist Episcopal Church, in Fayette County, and the above can be relied upon as authentic.

John Painter built a shop, in 1832, on land now owned by Ely Wilson, where he continued in business till 1838, when he removed to Union Township,

In 1835, Thomas Waldron (colored) erected a shop on land now in possession of Isaac Johnson.. He remained only five or six years, when his son removed the tools to Wayne Township, where he started a shop.

Mills And Milling

The early settlers of Perry Township experienced all the inconveniences attending pioneer life in those days, but in no way were those disadvantages more fully realized than in the extremely rude method -used to prepare their corn for bread. First, they used the block and pestle, which was succeeded by the stone hand mill, both of which are fully described under the head of " Mills and Milling," in the county history.

The first water mill in the township was built in 1816 by Thomas Stout, on the Little Wabash, near the crossing of the Martinsburg pike, the site of which is now owned by T. G. Cockerill, It was a small concern, however, and was operated onl}' a few years.

In 1815 Henry Snyder built a saw mill on Sugar Creek, on land now owned by Samuel Cofi:inan, to which, in 1818. h^ attached a grist mill, and both were operated till the spring of 1832, when the dam was washed out by an extraordinar3' rise in the creek. Mr. Snyder, instead of repairing the dam, sold both the saw and grist mill to Nicholas Kline, who removed them to the present location of the Sturgeon Mills. In 1837, Kline sold both mills to Samuel Briggs, who shortly afterwards took them down, and erected on their site the flouring mill now owned and operated b}' William Sturgeon, who purchased the same of the executor of Briggs' estate, after the death of that gentleman, which ocoufred in 1852.

No doubt the pioneer fathers of Perry fully realized the importance of an education to their children in after life, but the sparseness of population, and the lack of public funds, rendered it impossible at first to attend to these intellectual interests. However, as the settlements thickened sufficiently, so that within a radius of five or six miles it was practicable to establish a school, these wants were in a limited way provided for.

The first school building within the limits of Perry, of which we have any note, was called the Ayers School House, built on land donated by Mr. Ayres, in the Carter survey. The first teacher that occupied this building was Charles Cox, in 1810.

The next two school houses were erected some five or six years later, about the same time. One was situated near the present site of the Wabash School House, on land then in the possession of Robert Scott, but now owned by Rev W. A. King. It has been denied by some that this building was erected for school purposes, but perhaps the best authorities on the subject are the maiden daughters of Samuel Edwards, one of whom is now over seventy, and who says that it was built for a school house, though it might have been and probably was occupied as a dwelling. Who taught the first school in this building, or how long it was occupied, we have been unabl^ to learn. The other building mentioned was erected on land belonging to Judge James Crothers, but now owned by James Priddy. Prior to this, however, Mrs. Judge Crothers had taught a school at her house. John Moon taught the first school in this house. This building was afterward removed to the present situation of the Haines school house, where it may yet be seen standing in the rear of the new building.

In 1822 a round log school house was built on the farm of Isaac Henderson, now in the possession of T. G. Cockerill, only a short distance from the Cochran Methodist Episcopal Church. There were but two schools taught in this building : the first by Hugh Painter, the winter of 1822-3, followed by Jackson King, of Clinton County, the succeeding winter.

The Thomas Ellis school house was built as early as 1815, or about the close of the war of 1812, and was located on land now owned by Isaac Smith, on the edge of Martinsburg. Isaac Wood- ward was, perhaps, the first teacher, remaining from 1818 to 1820, followed hy Job Ellis from 1820 to 1824. He was succeeded by William Jury, from 1824 to 1825, after whom.ZenoW. Wilcox taught the school from 1825 to 1827 ; be being succeeded by John Moon, who forbade the burning of sassafras wood at the school, from a superstitious belief, common in those days, that it would be followed by evil results. These fears, however, did not extend to the use of whisky, or prevent him from resorting to the bottle for that "inspiration," otherwise impossible, we presume, for him to receive; and some that attended his school relate yet with zest, how they watched him stealing, as he supposed unobserved, to the place of its concealment. This building was removed to the Todhunter district, in about 1828, one mile southeast of Martinsburg, on Jacob Todhunter's land. It was known as. the Quaker school house, and was subsequently occupied by Mr. Barnett, Joseph McLure, Samuel Banks, and Jacob Todhunter, as teachers.

About the time of the removal of the school house from the Crothers farm - perhaps in 1832 - a hewed log school house was built on Jesse Rowe's land, near the site of Rowe's Chapel. John H. Geller taught the first school in this house. It has since been abandoned and torn down.

At an adjourned meeting of the township trustees, October 25, 1845, the township was divided into seven sub-districts. Since then there have been two more districts established, one of which is attended by the colored children of the township.

The schools at present are in a flourishing condition, and the houses are substantial brick and frame structures. The following is the average daily attendance of the respective districts for the year 1880 : No. 1, 65; No. 2, 32; No. 3, 80; No. 4, 56; No. 5,48; No. 6, 44; No. 7, 52; No. 8, 57; colored, 25.

The only store ever kept in Perry Township, outside of Martinsburg, was opened by JohnOrr, jr., in 1841, in one end of his dwelling. In 1851 he erected a large frame store room, opposite his dwelling, which is still standing. He continued here till 1856, when he closed out his stock of goods, and rented the room to

Grove & Craig, who eontinned together in business six months. Grove then purchased Craig's interest, and admitted Orr to a partnership. This firm continued less than one 3^ear, when the goods were sold to Charles Pavey, who removed them to Lexington, Highland County.

Sunday Schools

The Sabbath-school has ever been regarded as the most powerful auxiliary to religion and the church that has yet been instituted, and the Methodist Episcopal society at Rowe's, recognizing these influences for good npon the mind and character of the young, organized a school before Rowe's Chapel was built, holding the exercises in Jesse Rowe's barn ; the first, perhaps, in the township. The names of the officers were as follows: Superintendent, Jesse Rowe; librarian, Robert Anderson ; secretary. Judge James Crothers. The organization was kept up for three years.

The next organization (whose date is unfortunately not known) was at Cochran's, which is still in a flourishing condition. Adam Smith was the flrst superintendent, or teacher, as the exercises were conducted somewhat after the style of the secular schools of those days.

In 1844, the Sugar Grove Sabbath-school was organized, with Samuel Briggs as superintendent, W. A. King, secretary, and George W. Esterbrook, librarian. Present oflicers : Superintends, ent, W. A. King; secretary, T. Orr; librarian, M. U. King. The school is in an excellent condition, with three hundred volumes in its library.

Martinsburg, on the Martinsburg and Washington Turnpike, at the crossing of the Greenfield and Sabina pike, is the only village in the township, and was laid out by Thomas Ellis, in 1831. The name was afterward changed to New Martinsburg, on account of the establishment of a post office in the town. The first house was built by Thomas Ellis, jr.

Joseph Patterson was perhaps the second store-keeper, and was followed by Robert Buck, of Greenfield, in 1836, who opened a stock of goods in a new building*erected for that purpose, Gersham Perdue superintending the business for hini.

In about 1838, Richard L. Williams opened a stock of goods in a building located on the site of the present store room occupied by Dr. J. S. Jones, and continued, with short vacation in the meantime, till his death, in 1878, when the goods were sold by the executor of his estate.

In 1839, William and Isaac Cotfe brought goods from Warren County, which they opened in one portion of Gersham Perdue's dwelling, installing that gentleman as their agent.

In two years, Mr. Perdue purchased their whole stock, and continued several years alone in business, when he admitted Henry Daster to partnership. These gentlemen remained together in business for some years, under the firm name of Perdue & Daster, when the former purchased Mr. Daster's interest, and continued alone several years. He then associated with him Mr. Z, Adams? some time after which they removed to the store room formerly occupied by Robert Buck, continuing together in this building till 1852. In this year Mr. Perdue sold his interest to Adams, who, in a short time, moved the goods to Leesburg, Highland County.

Trustin Adams started a store in the Buck building, in 1846, and was succeeded by Edward Lanum, in 1850, who closed out his stock in two years, after which the room remained unoccupied for some time, when A. Miller, of Greenfield, opened a stock of goods in it, under the supervision of Mr. Todhunter, who, in two or three years was succeeded by Jackson Mas, and he, in a short time,

Robison & Silcott, of Washington C. H., in 1869 opened a stock of goods in this building, which for some time previous had been unoccupied, and placed Mr. Jacob Perdue and E. W. Welsh eimer in charge. This firm sold their goods to Welsneimer & Ellis, in two or three years, who remained together four years, when Welsheimer disposed of his interest to Ellis & Son, the present occupants.

Ellis & Fishback opened goods in the building now owned and occupied by A. Crawford as a hotel, in 1853, and continued three years, when they sold out to Thomas Fishback, who continued several years in business.

Br. J. S. Jones purchased the stock of goods sold by the executors of the estate of R. L. Williams, and continues at present in the mercantile business.

In 1878, I^islibach and Devass opened a shop, and remained together about one year, when Fishbach retired from the firm, and Devass operated alone two or three years.

Llewellyn Griffith opened a hotel in 1831, and continued till 1838, in a building occupying the present situation of Dr. J, S. Jones' store room, the latter being erected by Richard L. Williams, in 1856, after which it was occupied by Mr. Williams as a hotel for fifteen years.

The following named gentlemen have carried on shops at Martinsbnrg since 1834 : James Ellis, from 1834 till 1860; William Fowler, from 1838 till 1842 ; Ellis and Reese, from 1840 till 1855; Charles Fishbach, from 1845 till 1860 ; Lewis Daster, from 1845 till 1860.

Perry Toavnship, 793

The lodge owns a commodious, elegantly furnished hall at Martinsburg, and is in a flourishing condition, with a membership of two hundred. It is designated as Wilstach Lodge No. 368.

On the 12th of January, 1874, Forest Shade Grange No. 368, was instituted in the Odd-fellows' hall, at Martinsburg, where it still meets to transact business.

Gersham Perdue started the first nursery in Ohio, called the Pioneer Nursery, at Leesburg, Highland County, in 1817, which he moved to Martinsburg in 1836. He has since been succeeded by his sons, M. P. and T. K. Perdue, who are at present doing an extensive business in this line.

Post Office

The only post oflice Perry Township has ever had, was established at Martinsburg, in 1851, with Gersham Perdue as postmaster, who retained the position fifteen years. Since his resignation, the following named gentlemen have had charge of this office : J. W. Kneedler, E. W. Welsheimer, Jacob Perdue, J. W. Barrett, and Dr. J. S. Jones, the present incumbent.

Perry Township was organized in 1845. The first ofiicers were : Trustees, Joseph Wain, William Wilson, and Albert Adams ; treasurer, James Mooney; clerk, Lewis Todhunter; constables,

John F. Doster and Jonathan Jones; justices, Thomas Ellis and Robert Eyer; judges of lirst election, Jacob Todhunter, Jacob H. Geller, and S. C. Terril; clerks, Thomas Ellis and Amos Todhunter. The present officers are : Charles Painter, L. C. Smith, and G. W. Iladley, trustees; Jacob Perdue, clerk; D. W. Ellis, treasurer; Harrison Eeese, constable; W. A. King and Harrison Limes, justices.

The first settlement of the trustees, April 6, 1846, shows the expenses of the township, from its organization to that time, to have been as follows : Clerk, |7.12 ; Joseph Wain, for services as trustee, |4.00; William Wilson, for record book and paper, and for services as trustee, |5.43 ; Albert Adams, for services as trustee, $2.25 ; G. Perdue, for services as clerk of election, $1.00 ; Jacob H. Geller, for services as judge of election, $2.00; total, $21.80.

In contrast, we give the expenses of the township for the year ending March 7, 1881, which are as follows: For school purposes, including state fund, $2,454,31 ; general township expenditures, including relief to poor and road expenditures, $3,508.87. Total receipts from all sources, $6,395.14. Balance on hand, $2,886.27.

Mathew Anderson

Mathew Anderson, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of Robert Anderson, who was a native of Virginia, He came to Ohio in 1816, and settled on the waters of Buckskin Creek, in Ross County, where he remained but three years, when he removed to Fayette County, in 1819, s6on after which he married Miss Sarah Rowe, daughter of Jesse Rowe, who was one of the pioneers of the county. They were the parents of four children, three sons and one daughter: Isaac married, and died; Jane married, and lives in the neighborhood; John was unmarried, and died at the age of twen- ty-two. The father died Deeeiuber 2, 1878, at the advanced age of more than eighty-four years. The mother died some six years previous. They lived together as husband and wife for more than fifty years, and were devoted Christians, both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mathew, our subject, was born October 23, 1821, and married Miss Mary A. Davids, October 28, 1847, with whom he lived six years, when she died, leaving no children. Mr. Anderson married for his second wife Mrs. Kaylor, daughter of William Merchant. One daughter was the fruit of this marriage, now the wife of John Rowe, living in the neighborhood. Mrs. Anderson lived but four years, when Mr. Anderson was again a widower. He married for his third wife Miss Sarali D. Adams, daughter of Albert Adams, Esq., residing near Greenfield, Ohio, and sister to Rev. Colonel Adams, of the 81st O. V. I., whose history appears elsewhere in this work. They have three children, two sons and one daughter. Isaac Newton, a very promising child, fell into the well and lost his life, when but eighteen months old. Nancy Ruth, a young woman of seventeen, is absent from home, attending school at Greenfield, Ohio. Albert Porter is but fifteen years of age, weighing one hundred and fifty-seven pounds.

Mr. Anderson owns and lives on a most magnificent farm of a thousand acres, located on the Anderson pike, one mile west from the Washington and Martinsburg pike. lie has been, all his life, a man of great energy and industry. But few men have performed so much hard labor on the farm, in the way of clearing up lands, raising large crops (sometimes five hundred acres of corn in a season), and feeding stock, as has Mr. Anderson. He has done a very large amount of business during the last twenty-five years, assuming great risks at times, and sometimes sustaining heavy losses; but by great energy and perseverance, and, as he puts it, the "blessing of a kind Provicience," his latter days, financially, bid fair to be better than the past. He is a straightforward, Christian gentleman, assisted by a most estimable wife.

George D. Borden

Anthony Borden settled in Greene County, Ohio, near Bellbrook, about the year 1803. He wt\s a native of New Jersey. His children were Thomas, Enoch, Wesley, Ashcr, Margaret, and Sarah.

Enoch, the father of this subject, was a tailor h^ trade. His wife, Ellen Stoby, was a native of Scotland. Mr. Borden died in August, 1875; his wife died in September, 1879. They were the parents of seven sons and five daughters : Margaret, William, George D., Andrew, James, Mary Jane, Ann Amelia, Louisa, Christopher and John (twins), and Ida. William married Martha Ann Binegar; is a teacher, and lives in Green Township. Andrew married Amanda Mooney, and lives at Ada, Hardin County. John married Fanny A. Puckett. Ida married Russell Fishback.

George D. Borden, the subject of this sketch, was born in Greene County, Ohio, November 19, 1844, and is a farmer by occupation. He was brought up to farm labor; and availing himself of common school advantages, attained a fair education. He enlisted in Company G, 73d 0. V. L, October 11, 1861, and shared in all the eventful battles and campaigns of that regiment, first in the Army of the Potomac, and afterward under Sherman, in his eventful campaigns. He was mustered out with his regiment, at Louisville, Kentucky, July 20, 1865, having made a proud record as a soldier of the Republic. The Borden family have resided in Kew Martinsburg since February 2, 1854.

William M. Breakfield

John and Susan (Harmon) Breakfield, the grandparents of this subject, were natives of Virginia, but were of German stock. The husband died in Virginia, in 1820, and four years later his widow, with a large family of fatherless children, came to Ohio, and settled temporarily in Pickaway County. In 1827, the widow came to Fayette County, and purchased a tract of one hundred and fortyfour acres of unimproved land in Perry Township, for which she paid four hundred and fifty dollars.

John and Susan Breakfield had twelve children: George, Barbara, John, Katie, Peter, Henry, Jacob, Sallie, Elias, Susan, Eliza, and Mary Ann.

Jacob Breakfield, the father of our subject, was born in Berkeley County, Virginia, in March, 1802. His wife was Lydia Miller. To them six children were born: Jeremiah, Susanna, Harriet, Sarah C, William M., and Joseph H.

16, 1869, to Olive Welsbeimer, daughter of William H. and Maliala Welsheimer. Her father was a native of Virginia ; her mother was born in Ross County, Ohio. Mrs. Breakfiek] was horn January 4, 1847.

Mr. and Mrs. Breakliekl have had born to them two children : Harrold E., born May 18, 1870 ; Minnie M., born January 20, 1873. Our subject served during the late civil war, for a term of four months, in Company I, 168th 0. N". G., from May, 1864, till September, 1864. His company was commanded by Captain Lewis Painter.

Mr. Breaktield has been farming on his own account since 1867. He owns a fine farm of one hundred and twenty-one acres, on Survey Xo. 660, Christian Febiger original proprietor. He built a fine house in 1879, at a cost of three thousand dollars, and now lives at his ease. A fine barn was also erected, and all the surroundings give evidence of taste and comfort.

John C. Capps

. Dempsey Capps, the grandfather of this subject, came to Ohio from Virginia in an early day, settling first on the Ohio Kiver, and afterward removing to Highland County, where he raised a large family. Among these were William, James, Elijah, Rhoda, and Elizabeth, besides sons and daughters whose names are lost.

William and Margaret (Pope) Capps were married in Highland County, about the year 1812. They were the parents of the following-named children: Sidney, Polly Ann, Elmira, John C, Ehzabeth, Elijah, Cerilda, Curtis H., Jane, Adeline, Eliza, William, and James.

John C. Capps was born in Highland County, Ohio, April 23, 1820, and is a farmer by occupation. He spent several years of his early life in Indiana and Illinois. He was married. May 28, 1847, to Jane Anderson, of Fayette County. She is the daughter of Robert and Sarah (Rowe) Anderson, and was born August 5, 1824. The Andersons and Rowes were Virginians, but emigrated to Ohio early in the nineteenth century, settling on the Little Wabash, where some of their descendants still live. The children of Robert and Sarah Anderson were Isaac, Mathew, Jane, and John.

three children ; liven near New Martin(sl)urg. Margaret Elmira, born Ma}' 14,1851; married Levi Bryan, October 13, 1870; husband died October 18, 1877; has two living children. Marj Jane, born January 25, 1853; married Henry Jolmson, January 8, 1870; lives in Green Township. Robert William, born I^ovember 28, 1855; married Anna A. White in November, 1875; died February 24, 1881; was a favorite child, a promising young man, and much beloved; leaves one son, Yirgil Leroy, born July 17, 1877.

Mr. Capps came to Ohio from Illinois, in the year 1844, and in 1859 bought of John Merchant the farm on which he now resides. The farm comprises one hundred and forty-five acres, and shoAVS signs of careful culture. His wife and himself are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have been, from early life, consistent and useful Christians.

Jesse Eowe, the grandfather of Mrs. Capps, was an exhorter in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a power for good in his day and generation. He is said to have been the founder of the first society or class of Methodists on the Little Wabash, and was the builder of " Rowe's C'hapel," one of the first houses of worship in Perry Township. He used to tell, in his eccentric way, that "all the swarms came from his hive." He established a Sabbath-school in his barn, about the year 182G. Who can tell the value of one good man in a community ?

James Cockerill

James Cockerill, farmer, was born in this county, June 7, 1828. Till within the last five years, he lived on the farm on which he was born, four miles northeast of Martinsburg. In 1876, he moved to his present home, one and one-half miles uortheast of Martinsburg. He owns one hundred and twelve acres, well improved, ninety acres of which is in a high state of cultivation.

Mr. Cockerill enlisted as a private in the 168tli O. V. I., and was captured with his regiment at Cynthiana Kentucky, and paroled. In politics, he is proud to be called a Republican.

On the 3d day of September, 1862, Mr. Cockerill was married to Mary V. Hadley, whose father, James Hadley, migrated from North Carolina, to this state, in 1807, being four years old, and who now resides in Dublin, Wayne County, Indiana. Her mother died, in March, 1865, in her fifty -fifth year. Mrs. Cockerill was educated iit Eurlliam College, and at the S. W. Xoriiial Institute. Prior to lier marriage, she was a prominent teacher, who never failed to get a certificate. In all, she taught sixteen terms.

Mr. Cockerill is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Cockerill is a member of the Friends, by birthright, and is connected with Walnut Creek Preparative, Hopewell Monthly, Fairfield Quarterly, and Indiana yearly meetings.

Thomas G. Cockerell

Thomas G. Cockerell, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of William S. and Anna Cockerell, who were natives of Virginia. They emigrated to this state, in 1812, and settled near where the Hocking River empties into the Ohio, but a short distance below ]VIarietta. In 1821 they removed to this county, and settled on the waters of the Wabash ; where in about one year Mrs. Cockerell died. They were the parents of nine children, five sons and four daughters : Elizabeth, married and now^ is deceased ; William, married and now is deceased; Milly, married and now is deceased; Samuel, married and lives in Lowa ; Eldridge, died when quite young; three died in infancy.

Mr. Cockerell married for his second wife Phoebe Mooney, by whom he had nine children, two sous and seven daughters : Mary A., married but is deceased ; James, married and lives in the neighborhood; Lydia J., married and lives in the neighborhood; Ilarmanus, married and is deceased; Amanda, married and lives in the vicinity ; Eliza, married but is now a widow, living near Washington ; Hannah, married and is deceased ; two died in infancy. In 1855, Mrs. Cockerell died. After remaining a widower for two years, Mr. Cockerell nifirried for- his third wife, Eliza Mooney, sister to his second wife; she lived but five years, and died. Mr. Cockerell remained single for two years, when he married Mrs. Doster, a widow lady of the neighborhood for his fourth wife; she lived nine years and died. Mr. Cockerell died December 19, 1879, having lived more than ninety years.

Cochran, daughter of Barnabas and Charlotte Cochran, who were of the pioneers of this state, coming to this county from New Jersey in 1806. Mr. and Mrs. Cochran have long since died ; honored and respected by all who knew them.

Mr. and Mrs. Cockerell have nine children, seven sons and two daughters: William Newton, married and lives on his grandfather's old homestead ; Martha J., now a widow, living in the county; Edward Estell, (named after Eev. Edward Estell,) married and lives in the neighborhood ; Jacob, married and lives near his father; Thomas, married and lives on the home farm; Samuel S., married and lives near Jeffersonville, this county; James W., married and lives on the old homestead; Amelia O., single and remains at home; Eldridge W., single and remains at home.

Four of the sons were in the army during the late war, two serving three full years. Four of the sons removed west and remained awhile, and then returned back to this county.

Mr. Cockerell and wife feel that they have been highly favored in life. They have seen their family of nine children grow up to manhood and womanhood ; one son and daughter remaining at home with them. Seven of their children are married, and have families, all well to do in life, and living in the same county with their parents.

Samuel Devoss

Among the skillful mechanics of this county, we take pleasure in mentioning Samuel Devoss, who carries on his business of carriage making and general repair shop, in New Martinsburg, in the shop formerly occupied by Jesse W. Barrett. . He was born in Adams County, this state, September 5, 1840. The Devoss family came from Kentucky and settled first in Ross County, 1815. Jonas Pettit, the maternal grandfather of our subject, died in southern Ohio before the year 1840.

The parents of our subject, David and Rachel (Pettit) Devoss, had eight children : Arrietta, Samuel, John, William, James, George, Frank and Mary. The oldest daughter, Arrietta, is a graduate of Granville Female Seminary, and lives in Missouri, near Fulton; John works at the blacksmith business, in Scioto County; William resides in Fulton, Missouri; James works at wagon making, in Scioto County, and George works at blacksmithing in the same county ; John served in the late war, on the side of the Union.

Our subject learned his trade at Portsmouth, with C. Moffitt, and in 1858 began business for himself, at Rockville, Adams County, this state.

In June, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, 22d regiment O. V. I. After his discharge, and a brief taste of civil life, he again enlisted, this time in Company F, 81st O. V. I., in which he served till 1864, serving three years ; afterwards he re-enlisted in the same regiment as a recruit, serving in Company J). His total term of service, was but sixteen days less than four years, and during the whole time he never spent a day in the hospital on account of sickness. His regiment participated at Pittsburg Landing, luka, Corinth, Kenesaw Mountains, and many other hard fought battles of the war.

Our subject married Margaret Ellen EUis, in June, 1871; to this union, one child, Setta Jane, was born, and died at seventeen months of age. Mrs. Devoss died, October 4, 1873, aged twentytwo years. For his second wife, he married J^ancy Terrell, daughter of Thomas Terrell, of Perr}^ Township. The fruits of this union have been born : Flora, Bertha and David Garfield.

Mr. Devoss began business in New Martinsburg, in 1870, and his workmanship and attention to business, give him a steady trade year after year.

George Colven, the great-grandfather of our subject, died in 1864, at the age of ninety-eight years. He w^as a pioneer mail carrier on the frontier in his youth, and transported the United States mail in a canoe on the Ohio River. He was attacked on one occasion by Indians, and, though wounded seven times, he made his escape b}" strategy.

Elijah Ellis

born near tlie site of Xew Martinslnirg, tins county, October 1, 1817, and is the oldest son of David and Hannah Ellis, who settled in Perry Township, in 1799, near where Elijah now lives. The house in which he was born was destroyed b}' fire, in the year 1877.

The parents of our subject were of Quaker stock, and their son is piously devoted to the doctrines and usages of that society of Christians. The EUises came from Tennessee in the year above named, actuated by a desire to live in a country free from the curse of slavery.

Our subject was married, in May, 1844, to Jane Jury, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Fisher) Jury. To this marriage, five children were born : David William, born Ma}' 17, 1845; Joseph R., born June 9, 1846; Cyrenius, born November 10, 1848; Margaret E., born April 25, 1850, married Samuel Devoss, since died; Isaac L., born November 17, 1852, died June 11, 1857. Mrs. Ellis died, December 5, 1852, aged twenty-six years.

On the 6th of January, 1859, Mr. Ellis was again married, to Mrs. Eliza B. Ogborn, widow of the late Samuel F. Ogborn, of New Jersey. vShe is the daughter of Abel and Rhoda (Johnson) Thornberry. Her grandfather, John Johnson, was an early settler in the State of Indiana. He erected the first court house in Indianapolis, and his residence there was the first brick building erected in the city. He was a member of the Society of Friends, and for years kept a temperance hotel in the same city. Mrs. Ellis, by her first marriage, became the mother of two sons : Henry M. and Isaac F. Henry M. served in the 73d 0. V. V. I. during the war of the rebellion, and Isaac F. was a lieutenant in an infantry regiment of Indiana volunteers. He was captured by the enemy at Richmond, Kentucky, in the fall of 1862, paroled and exchanged. Mr. and Mrs. Thornberry were the parents of the following named children : Lydia J., Eliza B., Mary Ann (died an infant), Mary Ann, Rachel B., Susan J., William J., and John Thomas. Lydia J., Eliza B., Mary A., and William J., still live. The latter is a minister of the Society of Friends.

The father of Mrs. Ellis came to this state in 1799, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. In the prime of life he traveled from Xew Orleans to Leesburg, this state, on foot. He served as a member of the Legislature of Indiana, in tlie years 1833 and 1834, from Wayne County, and_ was also a member of the city council of

Richmond, Iiuliaiui, severiil successive years. He erected several mills in and near Richmond, Indiana, and one or more in Michigan. He was a man of remarkable qualities, a mathematician of some note. He embraced religion in the latter years of his life, and died a glorious and peaceable death at the age of seventy-live years.

Mrs. Ellis has in her possession a photograph group representing live generations of the family : Abel Thornberry, Eliza B. Ellis, Henry M. Oghorn, Ella D. Reese and Clara Reese. At the birth of Henr}' Thornberry, the great-grandmother of Mrs. Ellis could have said : " Arise, my son, and go to thy daughter, for thy daughter's daughter has a son." Eliza B. Ellis was a great-grandmother at the age of fiftj^-eight, and now has two great-grandchildren, who have a great-great-great-great-great-aunt. The oldest of this line is Ann Nordyke, aged eighty-two ; the youngest, Laura Grace Reese, aged one year.

Thomas Bales, tbe great-grandfather of Eliza B. Ellis, was the first white preacher who crossed the Allegbanies. He was suspicioned, and taken by the British as a spy, during his ministry among the Indians. His real character becoming known, he was released and permitted to preach unmolested. At his death, in 1801, he was buried in a rude coffin hewn out of a butternut log, in compliance with liis own request.

Thomas Ellis

The Ellis ancestry were from Wales. They came to America in the latter part of the sixteenth century, settling in Pennsylvania. Later, some of the stock moved to Virginia, and afterwards to Tennessee.

Thomas, the son of Enos Ellis, was born in Penns^dvania, but came to Ohio from Tennessee about the year 1799, and settled in Fayette County, on the present site of JSTew Martinsburg, when the- surrounding country was an unbroken wilderness. He was the father of Phipbe, Thomas, Elizabeth, Margaret, Reese, David, Mary Ann, and Rebecca.

David and Hannah Ellis were the parents of our subject. Their children were : Mary Ann, Elizabeth, Elijah, Sophia, Thomas, Morris R., Levi, James, David, jr., Lydia M, and Hannah E.

Mr. Ellis was married to his present wife - Mrs. Mary Levey, nee Arthur - on the 20th of October, 1870. She was born in Kentucky, November 30, 1826. By her first husband she is the mother of five children, two of whom are deceased.

The early life of Thomas Ellis was given to hard labor. The death of his father occurring when Thomas was yet a lad, the care of the family devolved upon himself and his brother Elijah. As a consequence, the education of Thomas was much neglected. He has had a painful experience in the loss of a family of promising children. In early manhood he spent much time on the road as a teamster, and before the days of railroads has wagoned farm products to Cincinnati, Chillicothe, and other markets.

Mr. Ellis is a member of the Friends' Societ}', worshiping at Walnut Creek. His people are nearly all members of the Society of Friends, and the descendants of his ancestry number several score in Perry Township.

On the farm where Mr. Ellis lives are a number of apple trees which grew from sprouts planted b}' Grandfather Thomas Ellis in 1799. The fruit is called the " Tennessee Apple," and was brought from Tennessee.

Robert S. Eyre

The Eyre ancestry were from England. John Eyre, the grandfather of this subject, was a Virginian. His children were Robert, Hannah, Samuel, Xancy, and William. William Eyre was the youngest of his father's famil}-, and was born in Virginia in 1802.

Perry Toavnship

The family came to Ohio in 1804, settling at the falls of Paint Creek, in Ross County. After John Eyre's death, his widow married Judge James Mooney. Soon after this the family settled in Perry Township, this county.

Rohert S. Eyre, the fourth son and seventh child of William and Jemima (Smith) Eyre, was born April 24, 1845. The children of William and Jemima Eyre were John, William 11. , jSTancy A., Eliza C, Joseph M., Hannah E., Robert S., and Sarah E. By a former marriage to Leah Job, Mr. Eyre had two daughters - Mary J., and Minerva.

Our subject was married, November 16, 1871, to Mary J. Chalfant, second daughter of Nathan H. and Adaline (Harris) Chalfant, of Highland County. Mrs. Eyre was born September 4, 1847. To this union four children have been born : Vertie E., born June 23, 1873; William N., born May 1, 1876; Lulu M., born March 23, 1879; Joseph C, born January 22, 1881.

Mr. Eyre has a creditable record as a soldier in the late civil war, serving as a private in Company G, 73d 0. V. V. I., 3d brigade, 3d division, 20th army corps. His regiment campaigned with Sherman, and made itself illustrious in many hard fought battles, and was mustered out at the close of the war.

Mr. Eyre became an Odd-fellow, January 5, 1876, and is an active member of Wilstach Lodge No. 368, at New Martinsburg. He is Master of Forest Shade Grange No. 368.

Albert Fishback

Albert Fishback, blacksmith, was born in Highland County, near East Monroe, June 18, 1837. His parents, Thomas and Martha (Roberts) Fishback, were natives of Madison Court House, Virginia. They were married February 15, 1820. Mrs. Fishback was born September 1, 1804. They united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1823. About the year 1836 they came to Ohio, locating first in Highland County. They came to New Martinsburg in 1837. The mother died July 2, 1872, and her husband died nine days later. Both were ripe, earnest Christians, and active members of the church. Their children were : Benjamin F., Francis E., Charles H., Hugh W., Matilda A., Martha J., John W., Albert, James H., and Richard E. The three younger children were born in Ohio. The father of our subject was by trade a wheelwright, and for many years carried on his occupation at I^ew Martinsburg. He also built and operated a carding-niill in the village, supplying the motive power by means of a tread-wheel horse-power. In later years he erected the saw-mill now owned by Levi Ellis. He was also a merchant, and sold goods in the village for a time.

Our subject learned the blacksmith trade with William "Wasson, serving three years as an apprentice, beginning at the age of sixteen. Since 1860 he has carried on for himself, working for twenty-one years past in the same shop.

He was married February 3, 1859, to Lydia M. Ellis, daughter of David iind Hannah Ellis, this county. (The EUises were from Tennessee.) The fruits of this union, have been three children : Russell, born November 12, 1859; Alwilda, born October 18, 18G1; Starkey, born September 5, 1863.

Samuel Haines

Joseph Haines, the grandfather of Samuel Haines, was a native of Warren County, Virginia,. He was the father of jSTathan, Joseph, Vinson, Ebenezer, and Samuel.

Ebe*nezer married Rebecca Berry, of Virginia, and to this union twelve children, including this subject, were boru. Their marriage took place February, 1799. Their children were born as follows: Mary, 1800; Ann, 1801; Elizabeth, 1802 ; Susanna, 1805 ; Rebecca, 1807; Sidney, 1809 ; Joseph, 1811; Nathan, 1813; Sarah, 1816; James, 1818; Beulah, 1820; and Samuel, November 18, 1822.

Ebenezer settled in Perry ToAvnship, about the year 1816, and on the same lands now occupied by his son Samuel. He paid |6 an acre for it at that time. Ebenezer died September 13, 1850, aged eighty years ; his wife died February, 1846, aged sixty-five years.

The early education of Mr. Haines was more a matter of mus» cle than of brains, and much more of his time was given to clearing away the forest than to storiug the mind with book knowledge. With all these disadvantages our subject obtained a rudimentary

He was married December 27, 1849, to Maria Smith, second daughter of Francis and Charlotte (Cochran) Smith, natives of Virginia and New Jersey respectively, but residents of Ohio. The Smiths came to Ohio from Virginia in 1820. Francis and Charlotte Smith had seven children, born as follows: Sarah, 1826; Maria, 1827; Anderson, 1830; Harriet, 1832; Charlotte, 1835; Henry, 1837 ; Elizabeth, 1839; John, 1840.

Mrs. Haines (Maria Smith) was born February 27, 1827. To Samuel and Maria Haines nine children have been born : Albert Berry, born Xovember 15, 1850; married AVorthington, and lives in Perry Township. Martha Ella, born November 13, 1852. Henry Lewis, born January 1, 1855 ; married Etta Belle Borum, of Clinton County, October 4, 1877. Francis Marion, born June 17, 1857; married Alvaretta Jones, of Green Township, August 10, 1881. James Edward, born June 30, 1860; married Nancy C. Worthington, of Green Township, August 10, 1881. William Addison, born July 23, 1863. Belle Ann, born August 9, 1865. Charles Milton, born February 21, 1869. Mary Eva, born September 19, 1871. The father and all his children were born in the same house in which the family now resides.

Mr. Haines has accumulated a competency by honest, hard labor, and well directed, legitimate trade. He owns live hundred and thirty acres of land in Perry Township, and has all in a good state of cultivation. He votes with the Republican party, but is uot a politician. His daughter, Martha Ellen, has .attained distinction as a teacher.

Anderson R. Irion

John Irion, the father of this subject, came to Fayette County from Brown. Robert Irion, the grandfather of Anderson R., settled on Sugar Creek about the year 1816. His wife was Nancy Ballentine. The Ballentines were from Ireland. Robert was a soldier in the war of 1812.

The children of Robert and Nancy Irion were John, Eichlas, George, Frances, Anderson, Hinson, Nancy, Silas, Harvey, Milton, and Mary, John was the eldest son, and the father of this subject. His wife was Catharine Hawk. The Hawks were of Brown Coun- ty, Ohio. To John and Catharine Irion thirteen children were born: Liicinda, Nancy, Anderson E., Milton, William, Susan, Angeline, Frances, Ellen, Calym, Mary, Hinson, and Jane. Lncinda died young. Nancy married Nathan Pine. Milton married Eliza J. Stookey, and lives in Fayette County. William married Sarah Scott. He was a member of the 168th O. N. G. He was wounded in an engagement at Cynthiana, Kentucky, in June, 1864, and died from the effects of his wound. His remains rest at Sugar Grove. Susan married Benjamin Burnett. Angeline married William Milligan. Frances married Eli Post, and is a resi^dent of Fayette County. Ellen married George Pine. Calvin died in his youth. Mary married James King. Hinson married Jane Sturgeon. Jane married Edward Updegrove.

Our subject was born on the 16th of January, 1824, in Brown County, Ohio, and came to Fayette in 1827, with his father's family. He was married August 3, 1853, to Susan Elizabeth Jones, second daughter of Amos and Eliza E. (Hilliard) Jones, of Virginia. Mrs. Irion was born April 22, 1829. To this union two children were born: Eliza Arabella, born May 23, 1854; married James Todhunter, of Fayette County, and is a resident of Perry Township. Jonathan Albertus, born November 11, 1855; lives Avith his father.

In 1865, Mr. Irion bought the farm on which he now resides. It consists of two hundred and forty-six acres of choice land, and is in a high state of cultivation. He also deals in stock. The residence, and most of the out-buildings, were built by Mr. Irion, and are tasty and substantial. Both Mr. and Mrs. Irion are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of Forest Shade Grange, at New Martinsburg. Has served Perry Township as trustee for some years past. His politics are of the Eepublican stamp,

Isaac M. Johnson

', Isaac M. Johnson, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of William and Jane B. Johnson, who came in an early day from Virginia, and sQttled in Heller's Bottom, on Paint Creek, Ross County, Ohio, where they remained for twenty-seven years, when they removed to Fayette County, and settled on the old Jesse Rowe farm, on the waters of the Wabash, where he died about 1833. Mrs. Johnson died in March, 1880, being in her ninetieth year. Tliey were the parents of the following children : Thomas G., married, and lives in Green Township, near Buena Vista; Sarah, married, and lives in Iowa; William, married, moved to Indiana, and died; John, married, and died at the age of twenty-two; George, married, and lives in Iowa; Sophia, wife of Martin Rowe, whose biography appears in this work; Otho, married, went to Illinois, and was killed by a railroad accident at Toleno Jnnction; Hinton, married, moved to Illinois, and is dead; Eliza, wife of John Mitchner, lives in Staunton ; Caleb II., married, and lives in Concord Township ; Mary A., married to Eli Johnson (no kin), and lives in Leesburg, Highland County, Ohio; Anna, married to William Pavey, but is dead; Isaac M., the subject of this sketch.

Our subject was born in Fayette County, September 9, 1823, and was married to Miss Casander Dick, daughter of John Dick, October 8, 1846. They were the parents of four children, two sons and two daughters: Jane Josephine, married, and lives in this county; Mary Lorena, married, and lives in Staunton; Scott, died when but two years of age; Ilenson D., single, and at home on the farm with his father.

Mrs. Johnson died in the fall of 1855, and about one year afterward Mr. Johnson married for his second Avife Leann Clauson, daughter of William Clauson, residing near New Holland. They are without children. Mrs. Johnson is a most excellent woman, but does not enjoy first-class health. Mr. Johnson purchased what was known as the Jenkins farm, in the spring of 1849, and soon settled on the same, where lie still remains. His farm contains tliree hundred and seventy-eight acres, situated on the pike leading from Washington to Greenfield, about midway between the towns. They live in a magnificent brick house, with a lovely yard and surroundings, on the south side of the pike. Mr. Johnson is one of the well to-do farmers of Fayette Count3\ He was out in the army for four montlis, and was taken prisoner by Morgan's forces at Cynthiana, Kentucky, but was soon released. In politics he is a life-long Republican ; in religion, a Methodist.

Some eight years ago a very interesting orphan girl was placed in the family of Mr. Johnson (Miss Ellen Brown, daughter of the late Dr. Brown, of Martinsburg,) by her grandfather, Avho requested Mr. and Mrs. Johnson to take charge of her, and- raise her to womanhood. She was but seven years old at the time. She proved to be a very interesting girl; so amiable and sweet-spirited that Mr. Johnson and family became very greatly attached to her - indeed, they loved het as though she was a member of the family by blood, and especially was this the case with Mrs. Johnson. Some two years ago Ellen died a triumphant death, believing, with all her heart, in the Lord Jesus Christ. Such was Mrs. Johnson's love and affection for this dear orphan girl, that she weeps, as only a pure woman can weep, when she talks of Ellen Brown's life and death.

Joseph S. Jones

Joseph S. Jones, physician and surgeon, New Martinsburg, Ohio, is the son of Robert P. and Nancy (Smith) Jones, natives of Berkeley County, Virginia, but reared in Ohio. Robert Jones, the grandfather of this subject, came to Ohio in the year 1809, bringing a family of two sons and eight daughters. He settled permanently near Bainbridge, Ross County. His sons, Wells and Robert, became permanent and prominent citizens of that section. Robert, the father of our subject, still lives on the homestead farm in Ross County. Wells died in 1863, leaving one son and five daughters. Robert is the father of six sons and two daughters, all of whom grew to mature years. Mary married Jeffi-ey Higgins. Wells married Lizzie Kincaid. Nancy married James Smith. Robert married Margaret Moon. William married Mary Core. James married Sarah Greenfield. John married Sarah Hamilton. Robert and Mary are deceased.

Joseph S. Jongs was born in Ross Count}', Ohio, August 1, 1827. He gave the greater part of his early years to farm labor, and endured a full share of the trials and difficulties of the early times. His school advantages were such as were offered by the district schools of the neighborhood. He however applied himself with more than ordinar}' diligence, fitting himself for the vocation of a teacher. In the year 1850, he began reading medicine with Drs. Bittler and Little, of Cynthiana, Ohio, and attended lecture courses, in 1851-2, at Starling Medical College, Columbus, and in June, 1852, began the practice of his profession in New Martinsburg, where, with the exception of the years from 1855 to 1861, he has since been ministering to the afliicted of this localit}-. During the years excepted he was located at Jasper, Pike County.

He was marriefl, October 11, 1855, to Eliza J., daughter of Richard L. and Melinda (Turnipseed) Williams, of Koss County. Mrs. Jones was born April 20, 1835. Her father's people came from Virginia, and settled near Chillicothd some years previous to her birth. Mr. Williams was a skillful stone-cutter, and in his early life helped construct the locks on the Ohio Canal. In hiter years he sold goods in JS'ew Martinsburg, from 1845 to 1878.

To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Jones nine children have been born : William II., Mary E., Charles, Wells S., Robert R., Laura M., Joseph S. jr., Alonzo N., and Lizzie, all of whom are living.

Dr. Jones has had remarkable success in his profession, having had twenty-nine years of constant practice, which is extensive and substantial. In politics he adheres to the Republican party, and has misSed but one election since he became a voter. He is a niember of Wilstach Lodge No. 368, I. O. O. F., of New Martinsburg, and has tilled, at various times, each ot its several offices.

William A. King

William A. King, farmer and stock raiser, is the son of Rev. John King, who came from Virginia to Ohio, and settled in Ross County, in the year 1808, where he remained until 1816, when he removed to Fayette County, and settled on the waters of Sugar Creek, where he remained until his death, which occurred in February, 1866. He was born April 12, 1786.

He married for his first wife, Miss Rachel Hixon, who died December, 1843. Married for his second wife, Alcina Cherry, in April, 1845. She survived her husband some ten years. He had ten children by his first wife, seven sons and three daughters: Bennett M. married, and lives in Holt County, Missouri. Sarah married, and lives in Missouri. Timothy H. is married to his second wife, and lives in Allen County, Ohio. Reuben is practicing medicine in Oregon, Holt County, Missouri. Weshy is married, and lives in Wyoming City, Illinois. Elizabeth married Alfred Todhunter, and lives near Martinsburg, this county. Rachel married Levi Hopkins, and lives near Madison Mills, this county. John married, moved west, and died at the age of sixty-one, being the first death in this family of children. James C. married Miss Irons, and died in May, 1878, at Washington C. II.

copal Church in 1829, ordained deacon by Bishop Soule in 1833, and ordained elder by the same bishop in 1843. He was a very active and useful minister of the gospel in his day, visiting the sick, preaching funerals, and administering the sacraments to the sick and dying. Probably no one man has performed so many marriage ceremonies in the county as has Mr. King. He was one of the pioneers of the county, most widely and favorably known, respected and honored by all wdio knew him. After serving the church for fifty years as a minister of the gospel, he died in great peace at the advanced age of seventy.

William A. King, the subject of this sketch, was born in Fayette County, June 18, 1824. He married Harriet Painter, daughter of Jonathan Painter, who was a native of Pennsylvania, but came to Ohio in an early day, and still lives near Good Hope, this -county, J^Tovember 9, 1847. The}^ have eleven children, eight sons and three daughters: Osman L. is married, and lives on his father's farm. Emniett D. married a daughter of Adam JSTeighborgall, and lives near Good Hope. Asa L. and Marion U. are single, and both remain at home. Charles Trimble is also single: is attending the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, and Avill soon graduate; has been licensed to preach two years, and expects to devote his life to the ministry; a promising son. Edgar L. is single, and at home. Ada remains at home, and is teaching school in her father's district. Alcina E. is a Miss of sixteen, and is organist at Sugar Grove Church. John W., Bennett, and James H., remain at home.

Mr. King was elected justice of the peace for Perry Township in 1861, and stilh holds the office, having been elected seven times. He was licensed to preach in the Methodist Episcopal Church, in 1852, and ordained deacon, in 1862, by Bishop Morris. The King family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and much devoted to the cause of God.

For fifteen years after his marriage Mr. King taught school, and thus got his start in life. He now owns and lives on a farm of three hundred and sixty-five acres of good land, situated on the south side of Sugar Creek, on the Washington and Ilillsboro pike. A family well to do, much respected, useful, and happy.

Harmon Limes, the grandfather of this subject, was -an Englishman, and his wife, Nancy Campbell, was a native of Ireland. .They were married in England, and coming to America, before the revolution, settled in Maryland. They had four children: William, Henry, Harmon, jr., and Margaret. William, the oldest of the family, was born October 2, 1778. He married Atha Doster, of Virginia, and became a resident of this state in 1810. Their children were : Henry, Harmon, Harriet, Harvey, Hester, Harrison, Huldah, Henrietta, and Heresa.

Harrison Limes is the fourth son and sixth child of WiUiam and Athalia (Doster) Limes, and was born July 20, 1816. He was meagerly educated in the common schools of the pioneer days of his time; but by application has added to his scanty store of book knowledge much vahiable learning, which classes him among the intelligent men of his township. He was married April 7, 1841, to Eliza, first daughter of Mathew and Hannah (Kinley) Aber, of Highland County, this state ; she was born December 15, 1823. The fruits of their union have been four sons and three daughters: William IL, born February 16, 1842 ; Harvey E. E., born May 20, 1843 ; Harriet Ann, born August 14, 1845 ; Charles W., born September 17, 1850; Hannah R., born Jarmary 9,1849; Winfield S., born January 22, 1855 ; Atha Eliza J., born N'ovember 22, 1860.

Mr. Limes has served Perry Township as clerk for several successive years, and is at present serving as justice of the peace, on his fourth term of three years each. His reputation as a magistrate is an excellent one. He practices veterinar}' surgery extensively throughout the country.

William Merchant

William Merchant was born in Virginia, June 13, 1800. His parents, Abraham and Sarah (Bull) Merchant, were natives of Berkeley County, Virginia, and came to this state, in 1814, bringing with them their children : Joel, Lydia, Jonah, Rebecca, Abraham, jr., William, Fanny, Nathan, Isaac and Sarah. Joel served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and died years later in one of the Southern States ; Lydia married Reese Morgan; Jonah married

William Merchant was married May 18, 1822, to Elizabeth Smith ; ten children were born to them, nine of whom grew to . mature years : Isaac, William, John W., Sarah, Jonah, Rebecca, ]^ancy, Abraham, Elizabeth, and Nahum. Isaac married Nancy Ca3dor; William married Sarah A. Breaktield; John W. married Eleanor Breaktield ; Sarah married Jacob Caylor ; Jonah married Maria Johnson ; Rebecca married Hugh Snyder; Xancy married Charles Fishback ; Elizabeth died July 1, 1842, agediifteeu months ; Abraham married Catherine Limes. He served in the Union Army during the cival war of 1861 and 1865, and was a member of the Second California Cavalry. He died, during his term of service, December 2, 1861, and is buried in "Lone Mountain Cemetery," near San Francisco, California.

Nahum, the youngest of the family, was born December 23, 1843, and was married September 8, 1866, to Eliza Priddy. To this union three children were born : Otis, Clara and Lida BelJe. Mrs. Merchant died. May 2, 1870. He married his present wife, Emily A, DePoy, September 12, 1871. They have one son, born September 1, 1877. Xahum served in the late war as a member of Company G, 2d California Cavalry, campaigning against the Indians in California, Arizona and Xevada. He was mustered out of service, at San Francisco, in October, 1864, and returning to this state he engaged in farming the home place the next season, and ever since has given his attention to agriculture and legitimate trade. He has had some success, and is well known for his good judgment and business activity. He is a staunch Republican.

It can be said of William Merchant, that nothing could divert him from the path of rectitude. He lived a correct life and died a peaceable death. lie had been an active and useful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for forty-four years preceding his death, and the light and powers of his Christian example outlasts his fleeting breath. He died December 27, 1878, in his seventyninth year.

John Orr

John Orr, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of Jolm Orr, who was a native of Virginia, and came to Ohio in 1818, settling on the waters of main Paint Creek, in Marion Township. After remaining there two years, he removed to a fiirm on the north side of Sugar Creek, where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1856. His wife was a Miss Vairce, of Kentucky, who preceded him to the grave. They were the parents of seven children, four sons and three daughters: Sophia, married, and died in Kentuck}^; Samuel, married, moved to Indiana, and died; Eleanor A., married, and died in this county; William P., married, moved to Johnson County, Iowa, and has his second wife; Elizaheth, married, moved to Indiana, and died; Andrew J., died unmarried; John, subject of this sketch.

John Orr, our subject, was born in Kentucky, in 1811. Came with his parents to Fayette Count}", in 1818. Married EHza Snyder, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Snyder, in November, 1831. In the spring of 1832 they commenced keeping house on the farm on which they have resided all their married life, and wdiich he still owns, located on the waters of Sugar Creek, on the Washington and Hillsboro pike, some four and a half miles from Washington C. H. Here Mrs. Orr died, after ten days' sickness, November 2, 1880, aged seventy years. She was a most estimable Christian lady.

They were the parents of eight children, five sons and three daughters: Henry S., married, moved to Kansas, and died quite recently, in the forty-nintli year of his age; Andrew V., married, and lives near Washington C. H.; Nancy A., married to Christian Grove, and lives near Washington C. H.; William H., married, and lives on the original homestead, now owned by his father; Elizabeth J., married, and lives in Iowa ; Samuel O., unmarried, and died in the army; John S., married, and lives in his father's old homestead house; Emma A., married, and lives in Concord Township.

Mr. Orr sold goods, from 1841 to 1857, in a room just across the road from his house, which proved a financial success. He owns a most excellent farm of one hundred and sixty acres. In consequence of the death of his wife, he made a public sale of stock, farming implements, etc., in April, 1881, and ceased housekeeping, after a married life of nearly fifty years on the same spot of g^-ound where he commenced. They have heeu members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years, and have seen all their children grown up to manhood and womanhood, a respectable, honored, well-to-do family.

Charles Painter

Henry Painter and Elizabeth, his wife, were Pennsylvanians, coming to this state about the year 1822, and settling on the Woodson Survey, east of New Marti nsburg, in Perry Township, this county. They w^ere the grandparents of Charles Painter. Their children were John, Peter, Henry, Sally, Jonathan and Jacob (twins).

Jonathan, the father of our subject, was born August 22, 1804, and in later years, settled with his father as above mentioned. His wife, Adah Smith, was from Pennsylvania. They were parents of bix children : Jackson, Harriet K., Eliza Ellen Smith, Charles, Jonathan, and Lewis. Jackson, the oldest son, died in California. The father still lives near Good Hope, this county, and has been an active Christian and member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a great many years.

Henry, the grandfather of our subject, was a soldier in the war of the revolution. Lewis and Jonathan both served in the late civil war, and fought for the Union. Our subject served in the 168th O. ]^. G. under Captain Lewis Painter. The regiment campaigned in this state and Kentucky.

Charles Painter was married January 10, 1860, to Cynthia Ann, Roberts, daughter of Moses and Elizabeth (Perry) Roberts, of Highland County. Her father's family consisted of nine children : Eliza, Jesse, Jane, Susan, Hannah, James, William, Cynthia Ann, and George H. Mr. Roberts, by a former marriage in Virginia, was the father of nine, children.

Mr. and Mrs. Painter have had born to them twelve children : Edward Estell, born January 9, 1861 ; Jesse Fremont, born August 1, 1863, died February 13, 1874 ; VYiUiam Carey, born September 22,1864; eJames Morris, born December 1, 1865; Harley Smith, born February 22, 1867; John Wesley, born December 25, 1868; Frederick J^ born November 15, 1870, died December 18, 1874 ; Charles Eskridge, born October 15, 1872 ; Eldridge B., born April 1, 1876 ; Mary Olive, born March 11, 1879 ; infant sou, born June 3, 1881.

Mr. Painter and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which denomination Mr. Painter is- a classWeader. They have occnpied their present home since 1860. They are comfortably fixed, and their children are healthy and intelligent.

James Priddy

The grandparents of James Priddy - James and Martha (Rowe) Priddy - were natives of Virginia, and came to this state in 1816, settling in Perry Township. They were the parents of William, Elias, Andrew, George, and Lucy.

Elias, the father of James, was born in Virginia, in 1796, and came to this state with his father's family, and in later years married Rebecca, daughter of Ebenezer Haines. His children were George, Evaline, Strawther, Martha, Jane, Lucy, James, Emily, Mary Amanda, Elizabeth, and Eliza.

James Priddy was born in this county and state, February 27, 1839, and was married December 18, 1866, to Mary E. Tddhunter, daughter of John P. and Martha J. (Binegar) Todhunter, of the same township. Mrs. Priddy was born May 10, 1844. The fruits of this marriage have been six children : Aurora Grace, born October 21, 1867; Myrta G., born October 11, 1870; Florence Luetta, born January 11, 1873 ; Leota Blanche, born August 12, 1875;. Arthur Esto, born June 27, 1878; and Ethel Alma, born November 16, 1880.

Mr. Priddy has a creditable record as a soldier, and did service during the late civil war as a member of Company A, 1st Ohio Cavalry. His company was commanded by Captain John Robinson, of Washington, and served on special duty as escort to some of the distinguished commanders of the Union forces ; among them, Kilpatrick, Meade, Pope and Shields. The field of travel embraced Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Our subject now occupies what is known as the " old Crothers farm,"- composed of one hundred acres of good farm land. He is the head of an interesting family, deals squarely and prospers continually. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Harrison Rees

Solomon Rees, the grandfather of Harrison Rees, came to this county, in 1806, and built and operated a brewery on the lot now owned b}^ John Kneedler, in the suburbs of l^ew Martinsburg. This was long before the town was thought of. Sampson, Hiram, and Owen, were his sons. The first two were born in Virginia, and Owen was born on the way from Virginia to this state, and on that account was afterwards known as " Owen Rees the traveler." Hiram and Mar} (McVeigh) Rees, the parents of this subject had ten children : Sarah, Harrison, Isaac, Mary Ann, Xoah, Ruth, John, Martha J., Rebecca, and Emily. Hiram first settled on Rattlesnake. He afterwards followed coopering and farming.

Our subject was born at the present site of ]^ew Martinsburg, i^ovember 13, 1816, and attended school in the pioneer school house, of round logs, puncheon tioors and slab benches. Among his teachers, were Zena Wilcox, William Jury, and Jacob Todhunter.

He was married December 25, 1838, to Margaret, daughter of Rees and Mary (Madden) Ellis. This marriage ended in the death of the wife, nearly thirty years later, November 1, 1868. Mrs. Rees was a woman of remarkable piety, and was much devoted to a prayerful study of the Bible. She died childless. Mr. Rees was again married, on the 13th of October, 1869, to Mrs. Ann (Dill) Daugherty, relict of Joseph Daugherty, who died in the army, a member of Company C, 114th O. V. I. They had six children born to them : ]^oah A., Joseph H., William H., Mary M., Alice H., and Anna May. By her marriage to Mr. Daugherty, Mrs. Rees is the mother of three children : Ehza E., Libbie, and Xancy J.

Our subject spent a brief time in Champaign County, in 1844 and 1845 ; but with this exception, his life of sixty-five years has been spent in the vicinity of the village of New Martinsburg. He began his business of shoe making in 1848, and has ever since given his main attention to that trade.

111 the year 1849, he was elected constable of his township, and with the exception of two years, he has been successfully re-elected to that office. He has also assessed the chattels of Perry Township every year, save three, since 1854. Mr. Rees has been an Odd-fellow for the past sixteen years. He is widely known in tlie county, and much esteemed for honesty and integrity. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church,

Woodson Smith

Peter Smith, the grandfather of Woodson Smith, was a native of Germginy. He came to America near the close of the Revolution, settling for the first five years in Virginia. He then removed to Kentucky, and during his residence there, became personally acquainted with Daniel Boone of historic fame. Adam Smith, the father of Woodson, was born in Virginia, five ^^ears previous to the removal of the family to Kentucky. His wife was Ann Woodson, daughter of Judge John Woodson, of Kentucky. The Woodsons are of French descent. To Adam and Ann Smith were born two sons and two daughters, Woodson, Maria, Wesley, and Betsey Ann. He came to Ohio in 1821, aiid settled on the "Woodson Snrvey," near where his descendants now reside. The land in that section was then valued at |1.50 to |2 per acre. Adam Smith died in Iowa in 1860; his wife died in 1832.

Our subject was born in Ohio, February 11, 1821, and was educated in the pioneer school-house, wdth puncheon benches for seats and greased paper for window-glass. He was married August 16, 1843, to Henrietta Limes, daughter of William and Athalia (Doster) Limes, who were settlers east of New Martinsburg as early as 1811. Mrs. Smith was born in 1823. To their union was born two sons, Harvey, born July 8, 1844, and Leander, born October 4, 1846. Harvey married Levina Irvin and is a resident of Fayette County. He is the father of one son, Tucker, and one daughter, Lulu. Leander married Mrs. Henrietta Cox, nee Bennett. She died April 2, 1876, aged 31. To Leander and his wnfe two daughters were born, Delia, born February 11, 1870; Ella, born May 3, 1875. Leander is a member of the I. O. O. F., and served with credit in the war as a member of Company " I," 168th O. V. I., under Captain Lewis Painter. Our subject was one of the throng of adventurousspirits who sought the gold fields of California when the precious ore was discovered there. He left Ohio in March 1852, spent more than five years in the trip from first to last, and returned to his home in August, 1857. He recounts many thrilling stories of his experience in t^e cities of Mexico, Acapulco, Vera Cruz, and other important places visited by him and his party. He is a member of the F. & A. M. at Greenfield. Mr. S. built his present brick residence in 1876, at a cost of $5,000. He is the owner of a fine farm of two hundred and twenty-five acres of land on the Buena Vista pike, two miles east of New Martinsburg.

Isaac Smith

Isaac Smith is a sturdy blacksmith of New Martinsburg, and plies his trade diligently, year after year. He was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, January 28, 1822 ; he is a son of Anthony Smith, a native of New Jersey, who came to Ohio soon after it was admitted into the Union. Our subject learned his trade with William Gold, of Tarlton, Ohio, and on the 19th of April, 1846, he was married to Mary Smith, daughter of S. Smith of New Jersey. The fruits. of this union were six children : Melissa J., Elizabeth Ellen, Ann Maria, Clara Adelia, Alice* and Orpha. Previous to his residence in New Martinsburg he spent a number of years in Pickaway County, and seven years in A^inton County. He located in New Martinsburg in 1862, and has since then given his trade his principal attention.

Robert R. Templeton

Robert Templeton, the subject of this sketch, was born May 14, 1794, in Washington County, Pa., and came with his parents to Ross- County, Ohio, in 1812, settling near the site of the town of Kingston. He was married to Miss Jane, daughter of John Beaty, of New Lancaster, Fairfield County, Ohio, on the 23d of November, 1820. Mrs Templeton died in 1872. Mr. T. is the father of eight children, Mary Ann, Eliza J., Agnes T., David W., Margaret, John B., Robert A., and J. Carnthers. Of these Mary Ann and Margaret are dead. Mr. Templeton came to Perry Township, (then a part of Wayne and Green) in April, 1822. He here lived on a farm ten miles south of Washington and three miles east of Martinsburg, until the death of his wife, when he sold his home farm and has lived with his son John on the farm adjoined to the one he sohl, until recently. His son Carnther's wife dying, the father, sympathizing with his son in his great loss, and wishing to minister to him in his affliction, went to reside with the stricken one.

Mr. Templeton has been an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Greeniield for over forty years. In early life he was a Whig; in later years a Republican. He is decidedly anti-secret society in his sentiments, and on the subject of temperance and the use of tobacco, he gives forth no uncertain sound.

This gentleman is a native of Perry Township ; was born February 28, 1833, and is the son of Robert R. Templeton. He served in the 168th 0. N. G. in the rebellion, and, with his regiment, was captured at Cynthiana, Kentucky, and paroled, after which he was kept on duty in Cincinnati.

October 8, 1856, he married Catharine Lucas, whose father, Ezra Lucas, was born at Marietta, Ohio, April 16, 1789. It is thought that Mr. Lucas was the first white male child born in Ohio. He was a lineal descendant of the Puritans of Plymouth. His parents came to Marietta in 1788 with the first immigrants, and remained two years, then went to Washington County, Pa., on account of the depredations of the Indians. Ezra Lucas came thence to Ohio, probably in 1810, and was married to Isabel McKinzey, April 2, 1811, and settled in Ross County. To them were born twelve children, of whom Mrs. Templeton is the youngest. Mr. Lucas died in September, 1861.

Mr. Templeton, as well as his wife, is a member of the Presbyterian Church at Greenfield, of which he has been a deacon eight or ten years, and has recently been elected elder.

He has three hundred and nine acres of excellent land, well improved. His family consists of six children : Melva J., Albertus L., Annie I., John C, Robert E., and Katie E.

Levi Tracy

State of Maryland, came to Ohio about the year 1805, and settled first in Jefferson County, and each took a part in the war of 1812. John, the father, resided thirty miles from Baltimore, and it is said of him that he rolled into the city the first hogshead of tobacco ever offered to the market.

Wornel, the father of our subject, married his first wife, Lernnions, in Maryland. She died in that state, leaving three children," Sallie, John, and Ternpy. After coming to Ohio he married a Babb, by whom he had nine children, Rebecca, Jasper, William, Levi, Elizabeth, Hannah, Joseph, iSTancy, and Mary. The Tracys were of Scotch descent ; the Babbs were from Switzerland.