Greene County, Ohio - The whole text, 1902 (part 16 of 25)

Arthur Gerl.Vugh

1819, in an old log house tliat stood within f I sight of his present dwelling upon the farm which is yet his place of abode. His parents were Adam and Catherine (Flaines) Gerlaugh. The former was born in Washington county, Maryland, in 1786. and the latter, a native of the same county, was born a few days later. In 1807 Adam Gerlaugh liecame a resident of Ohio, accompanying Ills father, wln) also bore the name of Adam, to Eeavercreek township. Greene county, settling upon the farm which is now the home of our subject. The family sent their goods d(j\vn the Ohio ri\er while they traveled o\erland by wagons and teams, eight weeks lieing constuned in making the trip which led through the forests and over poor roads, which were often scarcelv more than a trail. Some time prior to the arrival of the family the grandfather, accompanied bv Mr. Haines, made a trip to Ohio, looking o\er the land, and after making purchases they returned-^o Maryland. The latter never afterward came to Ohio, but his family later renio\-ed to this state and occupied the land which he had purchased. Adam Gerlaugh. the grandfather, had become the owner of three-quarters of a section, securing a quarter-section for each of his children. Upon Ihe place he erected a log cabin and the family began their life in Ohio in that primitive dwelling. With characteristic energy he took to work, clearing the farm and de- \-eloping the fields. The land was covered by a dense growth of timber. Soon the woodman's ax awakened the echoes of the forest and in course of time the sunlight fell upon the plowed fields and the ripened grain which had there been planted by pioneer hnnds. .\dam Gerlaugh bore an active part in the work of primitive development and progress, niid aided in laying' the fnuuilatinn for the present advanced coiuHtion of Greene county, enabling it to take an important position in this great conimonwcalth. He died between 1820 and 18J5, wlien about seventy years of age.

Adam Gerlaugh, the father of our subject, became familiar with pioneer experiences, for his youth was largely passed in Greene county before the work of progress and civilization had made great changes. He married Catherine Haines in the winter of 1807-8. Slie had come with her brother and his family to the cinuit\- in 1807, making the trip on horseback fruni Maryland. They settled upun the laud which had been purchased Ijy her father some time before when he had come to Ohio w ith the grandfather of our subject. Mrs. Gerlaugh was born .\pril jj. 1788, and her death occurred on the 19th of April, 185 J. She and her husband had li\'ed together as man and wife for forty years until death separated them, their nuuual love and confidence increasing as the years passed by. Mr. Gerlaugh belonged to the German Reformed church, while his wife held membership in the Lutheran church. Several years after her tleath he went to Wisconsin to visit a son and while on the return tri]) was taken ill in Warren ci>unty, Illinois, and there died in the liDUie (if aniither son. in i85(). when se\'- enty years of age. This worthy couple were the parents of ten children, eight sons and two daughters: David, miw deceased, who is mentioned on another i)age iif this volume; Jacob, who has also passed away and his history forms a part of this work; Otho and Adam, who have departed this life; Kobert, who li\es in A\'arren county. Illinois; Arthur, of this review; Jonathan, deceased; Frances, the wife of Benjamin Clark, a resident of ^Montgomery county, Ohio; Henry, deceased; and Mary Jane, now Mrs. Hawker, of Dayton, Ohio.

At an eaily age Arthur Gerlaugh atteniled school that was held in a littlfe log cabin where the furnishings were primtive. The methods of instruction were scarcely niiire modern than the building. He went each morning and night a distance of two and one-half miles to and from his home in the winter months. He pursuetl his studies until he was sixteen years of age, and during the siunmer months he worked in the fields and meadows, assisting in the culti\'ati(in of crops and the care of the stock. He gained good practical experience in farm work, and throughout his active business c;ireer was identified with the tilling of the soil.

On the 20th of August, 1854, Mr. Gerlaugh was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Elizabeth Kockafield, who was born in Dath township, Greene county, a daughter of John and Susanna (Cost) Rockafield, both of whom were natives of this anmty. T\vo sons were born unto our subject and his wife: Charles, the elder, married Julia A. Hower, and they reside in Clark county, Ohio, where he is extensively and successfully engaged in the breeding of shorthorn cattle. They have six children - .-\rthur, who is pursuing a college course in Springfield, Ohio; Hower, Ellen, Bertha, Paul and Catherine, at home. John, the younger son, married Bertha Scott, a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Lutes) Scott, and they reside upon the father's farm, the operation of which devolves upon John (ierlaugh, who is making a specialty of the breeding of shorthorn cattle. He and his wife liave no children of tlieir own. but lia\e an adopted daughter. Betli Gerlaugli Conley, wlio is now a student of the high school. In liis business interests John (ierlaugh is very successful, and lias taken many prizes and sweepstakes with liis herd of shorthorn cattle.

.Arthur Merlaugh of this re\iew is a Republican in politics and keeps well informed on th.e issues of the day, but has never ])een an aspirant for office, preferring to de\ote his energies to business affiairs. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren cliurch. in which he is serving as a trustee and the cause of Christianity finds in him a warm friend. He ever does his part in promoting the cause of the church and in advancing all interests that tend to benefit mankind. To-day he is one of the most prcjsperous agriculturists of his community. For many years he was closely associated with farming interests and well does he deserve the rest from, labor which he is now enjoying. His judicious investments, his careful supervision of his financial interests and his indefatigable energy ha\c resulted in making him the owner of nearly eleven Inmdred acres of well improved land King in Greene and Clark counties. In 1875 he erected a fine brick residence upon his farm, it is sujtplied with a hot water plant for beating, is tastefully furnished and in all its appointments indicates the culture and refined taste of its occupants. Mr. Gerlaugli also has a large barn forty-four bv ninetv feet, which was built by his lather. .\s years have passed and im])rovements have been made in farm machinery he has been quick to note those of practical value and to bring them into use u])on his place. He has added to bis farm all modern ef|uipments and accessories and now has one of the most desirable countr\- seats in Greene county. Of recen.t years he has left the work and supervision of the farm to his son and is enjoying an honorable retirement from labor. It would be difficult to find a man in all this count}' who has a wider knowledge of its history, its progress and its de\-elopment. Throughout life he has resided upon the farm which is still his home and no historv of Greene county would be complete without a record of his life.

Johx H. Thomas

John H. Thomas ma\' be justlv proud of what he has wrought, for his creditable position 1!! the business world is the result of his own enterprise and well directed efforts. He resides in Paintersville and it was in this village that his birth occurred on the 12th of February. 1854. his parents being James and Catherine ( Gossard) Thomas. The father was born in Jefferson township and was a son of Arthur Thomas, who came to (ireene county during his boyhood, so that the family has been identified with this portion of the state from pioneer times. When but twenty years of age James Thomas removed to Paintersville and learned the blacksniitlTs trade, which he follow t-d throughout his entire life. His birth occurred .\pri! 25, 1829. and his death May 21, 1900. at which time he was the olde-t resident in the village. His political sup- ;)ort v.as gi\en the Republican i)arty and both he and his wife were consistent and e;-.rr.est members of the Methodist Protestant church. On the 2(1 of Ma\-. 18^14. he enlistetl for service in the Union arm\- and be- came second lieutenant of Company H, One Hundred and Fifty- fourth Ohio Infantry, witli wiiicli he served until lionural)ly discliarged on the ist of September following;. Jle helnngcd to Lewis Post, G. A. K.. of Xenia and was one of its valued representatives. It was on the 8th of April. 1852, that tie wedded Catherine Gossard, who was born January 7, 1833. and died Xovember 28, 1882. lioth being laid to rest in the cemetery at Jamestown. They had but two children and Ali)ert Pierce died in infancv.

Jiihn II. Thomas, who was the young'er ciiild of the family, pursued his educatiun in the district schools of the \illage antl at the ajje of seventeen began farming, operating his father's land on shares. He now has three hundred and fifteen acres of rich and arable land in Caesarscreek townshi]i. w hich he has jjlaced under a high state of cultivation, and each year the sale of his crops brings to him a good income.

On the 23d of December. 1875. Mr. Tliomas wedded Miss Laura Bell Ar_\'. who was born in Ceasarscreek township, a daughter of John and Evaline ( DeVoe) Ary. Her father, a native of Greene county, was a son of William and Sally Ary. and was educated in the common schools, after which he began farming on his own accoimt on the ])lace now occupied by Mr. Thomas. Here he lived and died, passing awav in 1893 "^^ '^'^^ age of si.xty-nine years. His widow is still living at the age of seventy-five, making her home with her daughter in Xenia townshi]i. Mr. Ary gave his political support to tlie men and measures of the Republican l)arty and was faithful in his allegiance V< I)rinciples of the Methodist Protestant churcii, of which his widow is also a luembcr. In their faniih- were ten children ;

Louisa, the wife nf Lewis Fawcett ; Edith, the widow of Sanuiel Curl, and a resident of Xenia township ; Lydia, who married Piatt E. Mott and resides in Indiana : William, a resident of Caesarscreek township; loscph. who makes his home in Ceasarscreek township; Sally, the wife of Levi Smith of the same townshij): Harriet M.. who married C. M. St. John and also resides in Ceasarscreek townshi]): (ieorge W.. a resident of Darke couiUy. Ohio; Laura, now Mrs. riinmas: and Granville Moody, who has passed away.

L'nto Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have been born three children : Jennie Maude was iu;irricd October 21, 1896, to Hebron Bales of Ceasarscreek township and they ha\-e two children, Reva Bell and Xellie Edith. Charles I-'oster. who resides in the same liiwnship, was married Xovember 24. 1901, to Miss Gertrude Sanderson and they have one child. Emma Ethel was married X'ovember 2j. 1901, toJes.se Peterson and they reside upon the home farm. Mrs. Thomas holds membership relations with the Methodist Protestant church. Mr. Thomas \otes with the Republican party but has ne\'er been an as])irant for office preferring that his attention lie gi\-en \n his business alTairs, whereby he has won creditable success. He is a man nf strong determination, self-reliance and undaunted perseverance, and is widely known for his sterling honesty in business life.

Charles R. Evaxs Rodinsox-S History Of Greexe County

ness men of tlie city. He was liorn in Spring \'alley tnwnship, Greene county. November 14. 1871, and is a son of Isaac and Catherine M. (Stump) Evans, also natives of this county. The father is a farmer by occupation and still resides in Spring A'alley township, but his wife was called to her final rest on the 17th of October. 1897, They were the parents of six children : Frank, ^linnie, Lou, Alta. William and Charles R.

In the imblic schools of his native township. Charles R. Evans obtained his education and in his early manhood was associated with his father in farming pursuits. On the 1st of February, igoo, however, he came ti> Xenia and jiurchased a livery barn of Rol)- ert Richardson, since which time he has carried on the business. He has many fine vehicles and good horses and from the pul)lic receives a liberal patronage, which is accorded him in recognition of his earnest desire to please and his honorable dealings. He has always met with creditable success and his strong nature, his enterprise and resolution, will no doubt bring him greater success in the future.

On the 23rd of August, 1900, ]\Ir. E\ans wedded Estelle Luce of Spring Valley, a daughter of William V. Luce of that place. They now have one child. Alildred Catherine. Our subject and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of Spring Valley and he belongs to the Spring Valley Lodge. No. 302, L O. O. F. ; Junior Order of United American Mechanics and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of Xenia. He is also identified with the Odd Fellows Encampment, and his political support is given the men and measures of tlic Republican part}'.

AI. A. Broadstone, who is filling the office of county recorder and is recognized as a public-spirited, progressive and valued citizen of Greene county, was torn in the western part of the county on the 30th of October. 1852. His early life was not unlike that of most fanner lads of the period and locality. He attended the public schools through the winter months and in the summer and fall assisted in the plowing, planting and harvesting. He prided himself on being a good farm hand, when he earned his living by working in the fields and his thoroughness and reliability have ever been salient characteristics in his career. Saving his money he supplemented his earlv education as a student in what is now the Xenia Female Seminary, boys being admitted to the institution at that time. He engaged in teaching in Cedar\'ille township and in Sugarcreek township, and later entered the National Normal School, at Lebanon, Ohio,, and afterwards engaged in the county map and history business for eight years as a representative of the firm of L. H. Everts & Company of Philadelphia. He traveled over many of the states of the Union and gained broad experience through meeting all classes of people.

On the 8th of March, 1881, Mr. Broadstone was married in Coldwater, Michigan,] t(i Miss Ellen Cretors, who at that time was] a teacher in the state public schools of Coldwater. She is, however, a native of Xenia,] a daughter of the late Samuel B. Cretors, one of the pioneers of Xenia. a man of highj ii'telligence and honesty. Tlie daughter was] a student in the Xenia Female Seminaiy at tiie same time when Mr. Broadstone was at- tending there and was graduated in that institution. Three interesting daughters have l^een Ixjrn unto Mr. and Mrs. Broadstone: Louise D., Jean and Patti R.

In March. 1882. our suliject returned tc Xcnia and purchased an interest in the undertaking business, witli tlie late Juim Shrearer. He lias continued in tliat l)usiness ever since, l)eing for a sliort time in partnership with W. M. McMillen and afterward witii T. M. M(K)re. in a partnership tliat continued for more than eleven years. For five years he has conducted the business alnne. Being industrious during his leisure hours and in the evenings he improved his time by studying law and was admitted to the bar after passing a severe examination, at Columbus, in June, 1895. In 1883 he was elected a member of the city council and served for five years in that body, being its president f<jr two years. For seven years he filled the position of county coroner and was twice a candidate for probate judge, but was defeated by a small majority each time. Uix)n the death of S. X. Adams, the recorder of the county, I\Ir. Broadstone was appointed to fill the vacancy and was afterward nominated and elected to the office, so that he is now serving in that jxisition and discharges his duty with promptness and fidelity. He is an Odd Fellow of long standing and a Mason. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Junior Order of American Mechanics and belongs to the Presbyterian church. He is a gentleman well and favorably known throughout the countv as a citizen of abilitv and integritv.

William Henry Hopping

Cdunted one of the enterprising farmers of S])ring X'alley township, was born in what is now Jasper township, Greene county, October 5. 1836, his i)arents lieing James and Juli.'i Ann (Dean) Hopping. His father wa.s born in this county June 2, 1809, and was a son of David Hopping, who came to Ohio from Virginia, but previous to that time had resided in Tennessee, having ownefl a large number of lots in Memphis. When he reached Greene county he purchased laud in what is now- Jasper township and li\ed thereon until sometime in the '50s when he remo\ed to Delaware countv, Indiana, where his death occurred. In her maidenhood, his wife bore the name of Miss Guffy.

James Hopping did not accomi)any his father to lndi;ina but was reared to manhood and married in Jasjier township. .\l)out 1834 he was joinetl in wedlock to Miss Julia Ann Dean and they became the parents of four children, our subject being the eldest. The father was three times married and by his first union had four children. After the death of his first wife he wedded Mary Ann Eckles, iiec Stewart, and they became the parents of two children. For his third wife he chose Mrs. Margaret (Bull) ^^'inter, and there were two children of that marriage. Se\en of the children born unto James Hopping reached years of maturity.

The suljject of this review was only seven vears of age when his mother died. His youth was spent upon the home farm and in the common schools he became familiar with the branches of learning usually taught in such institutions. He continued to engage in farm work until October 5, 1861, when he enlisted in Companv A, Seventvfourth Ohio Volunteer Infantrv. going into camp at Xenia, whence the regiment was sent to Camp Chase and afterward to Nash- ville. i:Ie was first under fire at Stone River and was witli his command in all the battles in which it participated up to Qiickamauga, jucluding- the engagement of Mission Ridge. The regiment veteranized at Chattamioga, but Mr. Hopping did not re-enlist with that command and was detailed as a member of the First Battalion Pioneers, with which he continued for six months. In August. 1864. he rejoined his regiment in front of Atlanta and continued with the command until the expiration of his term of service at the close of the war, participating in the liattle of Jonesboro. which was the last engagement. fie was never wounded or captured althou.gh he was in the hospital several times, suft'ering at one time from typhoid fe\'er. After the battle of Stone River he was forced to remain in hospital Xo. 15 for about two months. He proved a loyal soldier, however, never shirking any task which the rules of military life imposed upon him. In 1868 Mr. Hopping went to Illinois and purchased land in Clay county, where he remained for two years, after which he returned to Greene county, Ohio. About that time - on the 22nd of December, 1870 - he was married in Spring Valley township to Aliss Martha C. Lyon, who was tx^rn on the farm where they are nnw living, her parents being James and Mary ( ^IcKnight ) LycMi. They removed to Illinois where they maintained their home until 1872, when thev retiu-ned to (ireene county, taking up their abode upon the farm which is their present place of residence. This place is owned by Mrs. Hopping and contains one hundred and f>irty-iivo acres. Mr. Hopping erected a giiod residence in 1895 to replace tlie one \vhich had been built about 1874 and was Ihuiic'I to the ground about twentv-one

}ears later. He still has an interest in the old homestead and is accounted a progres- fl sive farmer who readily adopts all new methijds w-hich prove of practical value in carrying on the work of tilling the soil.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Hopping has been blessed with tW(T children : Jeanette M. and Raymond, both natives of Greene county. Mr. Hopping is a Republican, hut while he keeps well informed on the issues of the day, he has never sought or desired office. He and his family are connected with the Presbyterian church of Piellbrook, in which he has ser\'ed as elder for about twelve years. Fraternall\' he is a Alason, belonging to Xenia Lod,ge. X'o. 40, F. & A. M., and also the council and chapter, having a dimit from the latter. He is a charter member of \Y. H. Byrd Post, G. A. R., and for ten years has served as its commander. Fle has continuously been a delegate to its state encampments and has also attended many annual re-unions, the first at Columbus and the last at Cleveland. He thus maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades and at such times delights in recalling experiences in the south that occurred upon the tented field or in the midst of ]>attle. Although he has never cared for acti\e political service, he is a \-alued citizen, owing to his reliability in business affairs and his advocacy of all that tends to promote the general welfare.

Kobixsoxs History Of Greexe Couxty

liaviiis^' lived an industrious, useful and lionoral)le life. He was horn Xovcmber lo, 1825, in Bavaria, Germany, liis parents lacing George Peter and Katherina (Holtz) Wolf. The father (hed in liis native counlr\- \\hcn our sul)iect was aliout sixteen years of age.

Mr. \\\)\i was reared and educated in liis natise lantl and in 1850, when twentyfive years of age, sailed from Rotterdam for the new wt)rld, acconi]ianied by his wife and me child. They t()ok ])assage in the Lilly, a sailing \-cssel. which after a voyage of seventy-two days reached the hari)or of Xew ^^)rk. They had a tempestuous voyage, a storm continuing for t\\enty-si.\ days. I)Ut at length they arrived at the .Vmerican ])ort in safety. Mr. Wolf continued to make his home in Xew \'ork city two years, working at the locksmith's trade, whicii he had learned in Germany, and at other ])ursuits which would yield him an honest living. In 1S5J he came to Ohio, settling first in Cincinnati, where he remained for two vears. On the expiration of that jieriod. he removed to Columbia Heights near Cincinnati and cultivated a \ ine\ard for nine v'ears. He next became a resident of Greene county, (^hio, locating on the old town jiike in Xenia township, where he rentetl a tract of land and engaged in gardening for about four years. He afterward removed to the Cincinnati pike in the same township, where he continued to cultivate a rented farm for se\'en years. In 1874 he came to Beavercreek township and purchased ninety-eight and one-half acres of land, upon wliich were good huildings. Here he has since made his home and as the years have passed he has prospered in his undertakings and now owns another farm in this township, comprising

Mr. Wolf was married in 1849 ^ Miss Margaret Sorg and unto them have been born ten children. Katherina, who was born in (Germany and is the wife of Andrew Fisher, of Xenia, by whom she has the following children: Elizabeth; (ieorge, deceased; Maude and May, twins; Lavina; Charles; Harry; Clarence: Klmcr and Fred. The .second child died in infancy. Margaret is the wife of Milton Spahr, of Beavercreek township. Mary is the wife of Charles Buck, a resident of Xenia, and their children are: Fdwin: Bertha, deceased; Carl; Margaret; and Phillip. Frank, a resident of Xenia townshi]). married La\inia K. Mackelwain. and the_\' ha\e fi\e children: Margaret. I\a\nionil. hrank. Laura and Louisa. I'^lizabelh is the wife of .\. .\. -Mackelwain and thev reside in Colorado. They have four living children - Frank. Gertrude. Andrew, Ruth, and Helen, who is now deceased. Clara resides with her taihcr and is the seventh memlier of the Wolf family. Charles K.. the eighth member, was l)orn in Xenia township and attended the district schools, while later he became a student in Xenia College, spending a few years there. He also lives at home and largely assists with the farm work, lunma is the wife of Harr_\- S. Garlough of Dayton, Ohio, and the_\ have one child, Hurbert. George, the youngest member of the family, died when about a year old.

During the Civil war .Mr. Wolf was a member of a company known as the Home (iuards. He cast his first presidential vote for Fremont but since that time has given his political support lo the Democracy. The chiklren as well as Mrs. Wolf are members of the Reformed church. Mr. W'ulf has always followed general farming and stockraising, making a sjjecialty of chesler white hogs. They have been no exciting chapters in his life history but he has been a man of strong pinpose, honorable, straightforward, industrious and energetic and these qualities are certainly well worthv of emulation.

Joseph W. Hebble

Joseph W. Hebble. whose identification with the business interests of Xenia made him a valued citizen and whose worth of character commanded respect and admiration, was a native of Greene county, born on the 5th of December. 1843, while his death occurred in the county seat on the 17th of June. 1901. His father, Henry E. Hebble, was a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, born March 12, 1808. In earlv life he learned and followed the carpenter's trade and later he became an engineer on one of the first locomotives that ran over the road in southern Pennsylvania, the railroad at that time being owned bv the state and leased engines and coaches which were owned by a private company. The engines were then built without cabs, and the whole system of railroading was in a ])rimitive condition. For three years the father of our subject was connected with railroading and then turned his attention to the building industry, liuilding butli houses and bridges. He superintended the con- .struction of the solid bridge across the Susquehanna river at Columbia. Pennsylvania, and was connected with manv other important building enterprises, but the e.\- IX)sure which he had undergone while railroading, there being no shelter for the engineer, had undermined his health and from the effects of this he suffered nearlv all his life. In the year 1841 he came to Greene county. Ohio, where he engaged in bridgebuilding and contracting until his death. which occurred on the 25th of March, 1886. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Miss Kramer, was born Xovember 2j. 1810. and I'ke her husband was a native of Pennsvlvania and died in Dayton, Ohio, in October, 1898. They reared a family of ten children, all of whom are living witli the exception of our subject and Benjamin F.. who died in May, 1897.

Mr. Hebble of this review spent the davs of his boyhood and youth in his parents' home and received a good, practical education in the connnon schools of the neighborhood and at Dayton. F- r manv vears thereafter he was one of Greene countv's well known teachers, teaching fir'Jt in the country schools and later as principal of the sch(K)ls at Fairfield and Bellbrook. In the meantime, however, he served his country in the Civil war. At the age of twentv years he enlisted at the president's call for aid. becoming a member of Company K. One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio \'olunteer Infantry, which was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. They went to \^irginia. traversed the F'otomac and Cinnberland valleys 'and Mr. Hebble endured the many hardships of army life until the cessation of hostilities which showed the Union was no longer endangered. He also had two brothers in the Union ranks. Z. T.. who was in the Tenth Ohio Battery, and W. H.. a meml>er of the One Hundred and Fortysi.xth Infantry.

wliicli piisitidii he held fcu" a number i.it years. lie was then made secretary of tlie P'eople's Building and Loan Association the duties of which recjuired Init little of his time during the early years of the existence of the companv, hut later it hccame an important enterprise and contrihutetl not a little to the improvement of the city. Mr. Ilelihlc possessed excellent business ability and sound judgment and his determination and force of character enabled him to carry forward to successful completion wliate\er he undert(i(ik. ilis straightforward business policy cnmmeniled him to the confidence of all and in financial circles he sustained an unassailable reputati( ju.

( )n the if)tli ijf January. 1X73. Mr. }fel>l>le was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Hamma. of N'ellow Springs. She was Ixjrn January 17, 1845, and is a daughter of Adam and L'atliarine (Barton) Hamma, who for man_\- years was a resident of Greene county. Her mother bore the maiden name of Catharine Barton, and was a native of Clark county. Ohio. Three children were lx>rn unto our subject and his wife, of whom a daughter, P'annie Kate, died (in the 27th of February, 1889, at the age of about ten years. The others are Roy and Mary .Ada. The daughter resides at home with her mother, and the son represents the firm of W'hitmer & Hebble, general insurance agents of Xenia. The family residence is pleasantly located and is the center of a cultured society circle. The household is noted for its cordial and gracious hospitality and the members of the family in turn are heartily welcomed into the Ijest homes of the city. Mr, Hebble found his greatest pleasure in jjrdxiding for his family and in promoting their happiness, yet his death was not onlv mourned bv those of his own household, but bv many friends throughout the count v for his genial nature and sterling worth made him popular. He left to his family not only a comfortable competence, but also the priceless heritage of an untarnished name, for his record was that of a brave soldier, a reliable business man and a stanch friend. P'or many years he was a meml)er of the Masonic fraternitw haxing joined the order at Osborn, Ohio, wiiere he served as secretary of thei: lodge, and after dimitting to Xenia lodge he held the same position here. He was also secretary of the Royal Arch Giapter at Xenia up to within a short time

Adam Routzoxg

Adam Routzong, nr>w deceased, was for years a respected and worthy citizen of Greene county and it is but justice to his memory that his record be given in this volume. He was a native of Frederick county, Maryland, l)orn December 4. 1806, a son of Henry Routzong. whose birth also occurred in Frederick county. About 1824 he left Maryland and with his family came to Greene county, Ohio, settling ujion a farm near Fairfield. There he purchased a good tract of land and carried on agricultural pursuits for many years, dving at an ;idvanced age. tiis wife passed away when the subject of this review was quite young and before the removal of the family to Ohio.

Adam Routzong acquired his education in the schools of his native state and w'as a youth of eighteen when he came with his father to Greene county. They were active- Iv associated in farm work, the father and his three sons. They put all of the improvements upon the farm and Adam Routzong continred to remain under the parental roof until he was aljout twenty-one years of a9:e, when he removed t') a farm in Xenia township, which he purchased. It was a tract of land on the Xenia and Fairfield road, hut it was wild and unimi)rove(l and awaited the awakenino- tuucli <<{ the agriculturist to make it productive land. Our subject at once began its deveIoi)nient and made many excellent im]irovem.ents upon it. It continued to be his home for furty years and a sjreat transformation was wrought in the appearance of the place as it was brought from its primitive condition to a high state of cultivation. There thmugh a long period Mr. Routzong carried on general farming and stock-raising, meeting with excellent success in his undertakings. The farm was called Shady Bower ami consisted of two hundred and fifty-six acres of rich land, l)ut by additional purchases the l)oundaries of the place have been extended until now it comprises tliree hundred and fnrty-six acres, which is still in i)ossession i>f the family. In 1872 Mr. Routzong retired fmui active life and with his estimalile wife removed to Xenia. where he lived for fifteen years. In 1886 he took up his abode on a farm in Xenia townshi]\ which he had |)urchased in 18C11. It comprised one hundred and eighty-three acres of land, which is now owned by his son J- C. Routzong and is occupied by the widow and the family of our sul)ject.

i\Ir. Riiutzong was twice married. He first wedded Sarah Cou,gler. who died leaving two children. Henry, a resident of Yellow Springs, and ^^lathias now deceased. For his second wife Mr. Routzong chose Constant Comfort Cromwell, a sister of Joseph Cromwell. She was born in Washington coimty, Maryland, near Clear Springs, and her parents were also natives of that state. By the second marriage of our subject there were also two children: Joseph Cromwell, who was lx)rn in Greene county, Ohio ; and John R., who died at the age of eleven years. Adam Routzong died on the idth of June. 1887, upon the liouie farm, passing away after a short illness, and his remains were interred in Byron cemetery. He was a public spirited man and though he ne\-er held office he took an active interest in everything pertaining to the general welfare and upbuilding of his portic:)n of the state and gave his co-operation to the measures for the general good. In politics he was a Republican and in religious faith was a Lutheran, long holding membership with that church. He lived a consistent Christian life and was held in the highest regard liy all who knew him. He was found to be reliable in business, loval in citizenship and trustworthy in friendship, and the sterling cpialities of his nature gained for him the warm esteem of all with whom he was associated. His widow still sur\-ives him and now resides upon the old homestead - one of the estimable ladies of tiie community.

Joseph Cromwell Routzong, the elder child of the father's second marriage, was born December 18, 1S48, in Greene county, Ohio, on the old home place in Xenia township. At the usual age he entered the public schools and there pursued his education, while in the summer months he assisted in the work of the home farm. He has followed agricultural jnirsuits throughout his entire life and is now living upon the old iiome place, which his father purchased in 1 86 1. He has put a vast amount of improvement here and to-day has one of the finest attractive countrv seats of Greene countv. He erected one of the best farm houses ill this prnticMi i>f the state, it l)eing buih about eigiiteen years ago. He also has a large l)arn and his farm is a model property in all res])ccts. In addition to the cultivation of the held he is extensively engaged in the raising of Poland-China hogs and sh<jrthom cattle and this branch of his business is proving to him a successful enterprise.

In tS/I Mr. Routzong was married to Miss Alice Sn\(ler, a native of Greene county and a daughter of Casi>er Snyder, who was a niillwriglit. miller and distiller of Xenia township and died at an advanced age. He was (^ne of the native sons of Greene county antl was classed among the \alued citizens here. L'nto Joseph L". Routzong and his wife have been born live children : Harry M. married .\nnie Commings and resides ni)on the home farm; John A. is a machinist of Xenia ; Joseph C. died at the age of fifteen years : Charles F. is an electrician by profession but is now assisting in the cultis'ation of the home farm; Flora A., the youngest, is the wife of William C'line, a resident farmer of .Alpha, Ohio. .-\11 of the children were born in Xenia t(iwnshiii.

Joseph C. Routzong exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican ]iarty and has been honored with some local offices, having served as township trustee for six years. He belongs to the Reformed church, in which he has served as deacon. His entire life has been passed in Greene county and the fact that many who have known him from his boyhood are numbered among his stanchest friends is an indication that his career has ever been honorable, useful anil upright.

Thom.Vs Haverstick

Thomas Haverstick, now deceased, was a well known citizen of Greene county, and when called to his final rest many friends mourned his departure. He was born December 2. 1S35. in this county, his parents being John and Elizabeth ( HoUey) Haverstick. The home farm was his play ground in vouth and also his training school for life's practical duties. He early became familiar with the work of the fields and after acquiring a fair common-school education he worked as a farm hand, thus gaining a start in life.

On the loth c)f December. i^/2. Mr. Haverstick was united in marriage to Miss Sarah I. Swigart, who was born on the farm where she now lives on the 31st of .August, 1 844. Her parents were Joel and IMargaret (Hedelson) Swigart, both of whom were natives of Greene county, the father having been born in Sugarcrcek township and the mother in Beavercreek township. The 1 8th of Xovember. 1820. was the day of the father's birth, and on the 12th of January, 1843. he led to the marriage altar ]\Iiss Hedelson, whose birth occurred Se])tember 13, 1834. Both, however, have now passed away, the former dying March II. 1891. and the latter on the 28th of July, 1878. '^h. and Airs. Haverstick began their domestic life upon the farm belonging to her peo]3le. Five children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Swigart, but three of the daughters died in girlhood. The other two ' reached womanhood and Elmira became the wife of John Fink, but is now deceased. She had no children. Thus Mrs. Haverstick was left the only surviving member of her parents' famih', and at their death she inherited tlie two farms in Sugarcreek township former]}- owned by her father, and npon one of these she still makes her home, superintending its control.

At the time of the Civil war Mr. Ilaverstick manifested his loyalty to the country by enlisting as a soldier in the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio \'olunteer Regiment for one hundred days' service. He was out al)out four months and became a sergeant, returning at the end of that time to his home in Greene county. Fraternally he was connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a man well known and well liked throughout the community. He was kind, good hearted, considerate and wherever he went commanded the respect of those with whom he was associated. On the loth of September, i8gr, his life's labors were ended in death, anil his remains were interred in ^b>unt Zion cemetery. .Mrs. Haverstick had the deep sympathy of all who knew her. for her loss was a heavy one. The community also lost a valued citizen and many a considerate and faithful friend. Mrs. Haverstick has a wide acfiuaintance in Greene county and is a most estimable la<lv.

John G. Clemexs

John G. Clemens, the president of the People's Bank of Jamestown, was born in Greene county on the old Bell farm in Xenia township, on the 2ist of January, 1820, and is a .son of John and Susan ( Slagle) Clemens, who were natives of Augusta countv, Virginia. The family is of English lineage and was established in this countrv at an early day. while the Slagles were of German descent. John Clemens, the father of our subject, was a participant in the war of 18 1 2 and after the close of hostilities he settled in Clark county, Ohio, near Springfield, where he followed farming, and in 1819 he came to Xenia, where he again carried on agricultural pursuits, and after living for four years on the Xathaniel Bell farm he removed to a tract of land on Caesars creek in Jasper township, where he purchased land upon which he lived until a lew years prior to his death. He then purchased another farm in Xew Jasper township and there lived until his death, which occurred in 1866, when he was eighty-one years of age. His wife passed away at the age of seventy-five years. In their family were ten children, two of w-hom are yet living, the eldest being John G. Clemens, of this review. Susan is the wife of David Davis, also a resident of Jamestown.

John G. Clemens obtained his education in an old log school-house with its puncheon fioor, slab seats and huge fireplace. He was able to attend school only about three months each year, for the public funds would alli>w the continuance of the instruction no longer. After he l>ecame old enough he assisted in the work of the home farm and gained a practical experience and knowledge of farm work in all its departments. \\'Iicn twenty-four years of age he chose as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Margaret Long, a daughter of \\'illiam Long, one of the early settlers of X'ew Jasper township, who died in his ninetieth year, and they were married Fel>ruarv i, 1844.

.Vfter their marriage the young couple began farming in Xew Jasper township, Mr. Clemens operating his father's farm for about eight years. He then purchased a fjirm (it one luin<lred acres in tlie same townsliip and there lived until, 1877. when he removed to Jamestown, where his wife died on the 2 1 St of January, 1891, at the age of sixty-live years. Unto them were born three children : Louisa, who died of typhoid fever in her twenty-first year; Mary L., who also died in her twenty-first year; and Gertrude M., the wifel of Jesse Taylor, the cashier of the People's Bank.

In his business undertakings Mr. Clemens was prosperous. To his first purchase of land, of one hundred acres, he has since added from time to time, making judicious investments in real estate until to-day he owns twelve hundred acres of land mostly in Ross and Cedarville townships. He is also the owner of the old family homestead and all that he has is due to his own well directed efforts. He had no influential friends or inheritance to assist him. but he has placed his dependence upon the substantial qualities of self-reliance, determination and indefatigable energ^y, and these have proved an e.xcellent foundation upon which to rear the superstructure of prosperity. He was one of the original incorporators of tlie People's Bank of Jamestown, became its president and has since continued in that position. He is also its largest stockholder and is interested in other business enterprises which have not only proven of benefit tcj himself, but have also advanceil the general prosperity.

His fellow townsmen, recognizing liis worth and al)ilitv. ha\e frequently called him to pul)lic office. In his political views he was originallv a Whig, and upon the organization of the party became a Republican. He was elected justice of the peace and served for alx)ut twenty-six years, or until his removal to Tamestown. His decisions were strictly fair and iiu])artial and that he gave universal satisfaction is indicatetl by his long continuance in the office. In 1862 he was announced and published as a canditlate for county commissioner without his knowledge ()r consent. He did no canvassing, never leaxing home for a day or asking any man to vote for him, and was elected by a complimentar\- majority. He served for one term in that office and then retired. He was interested in the Little Miami Narrow Gauge Railroad for about three }ears and has co-()])erated in many movements for the general good. In his religious faith he is a Methodist. He joined that dcniimination on the 23d of April, 1842. and has therefore been a member of the church for sixty years, while for the same long period of time he has served as one of its stewards, and has also been a class-leader. Mr. Clemens has not missed a single communion ser\-ice since entering the church. For about twenty-six years he was recording steward of the church and has fre(|uently been a delegate to its conferences. He has been chosen administrator and executor to settle twenty-six difi'erent estates, a fact which intlicates the confidence and trust reposed in him by those who know him, and it is unnecessary to sav to those acquainted with Mr. Clemens that no trust ever reposed in him has been betrayed in even the slightest degree. He has traveled quite extensi\ely, visiting twenty different states, including those on the Pacific coast, California. Oregon and Washington. He spent some time in visiting the manv jioints of interest in that section of the country and he has a comprehensive knowledge of his own land, its developanent and its history.

and is one of the okle.-^t native citizens of Greene county. No history of tliis portion of the state would l)e comjjlete without his record for his life has formed an integral chapter in the annals of this district of Ohio. As the years have advanced he has progressed from a humble financial position to one of marked affluence, but the acquisition of wealth has never warped his kindly, generous n.'iturc or led him to cease to feel an iriterest in everything pertaining to the general good and to the progress and improvement of the community. He is known far and wide as a man of strong purpose, one who has led an honorable and upright life and whose example is indeed worthy of emulation.

Josh L' A Ellis

Joshua Ellis was born September 28. 1847, in Jefferson township, ui)on the farm which is yet his liinne and to-dav he is accounted one of the intelligent, progressive and highly respected agriculturists of this portion of the stale. His father, Samuel Ellis, was born in Frederick cunntv, Virginia, October 4, 1800, and in the year 1807 accompanied his parents to Ohio, taking up his abode upon the farm which is now the home of his son Joshua. Here he was reared amid pioneer conditions, for at that time the work of improvement and development in the county had scarcely been begun. His father was Christopher Ellis, who belonged to an old Pennsylvania Dutch family and came from Lancaster, that state, to Ohio. His birth occurred in Lancaster on the iith of January, 1763. and he died in the year 1836 at the age of seventy-three vears. He was united in marriage to Miss

Eliza Carvery, who was born September 5, 1769, and died September 5, 1822, at the age of fifty-three years. On arriving in Greene county, Christopher Ellis purchased eight Iftnulred acres of land on what is now tlie Clinton and Greene comity bciundary line and thereon took up his abode. All that remains of the once thick forest is an old elm tree which stands near the spring on the farm, and it was near this tree that the grandfather built his first Ohio home, which was constructetd of logs. At one time he was the owner of sixteen hundred acres of land anil the oUl homestead is still in the possession of Joshua Ellis, his youngest grandson. His children born of the first marriage were Catherine : Jacob : .Miraham ; Isaac: Jnhn: Samuel, the father of our subject; William; George; James; Mary; Joseph; Christopher; and Elizabeth. The grandfather afterward married Xancy Overly and they became the parents of four children : Alartha, Tilden. Angeline and Daniel.

Samuel Ellis, the father of our subject, early became familiar with the arduous task of developing a new farm. He was three times married, his first union being with Miss Elizabeth Oglesbee. a native of Greene county, and this union was blessed with six children : Preston. Mary Ann, Silas, Joseph, Almira and Isaiah. After the death of his first wife Samuel Ellis married Miss Keziah Woolman, who was born July 17, 181 7, and was also a native of Greene county, Ohio. It was on the 25th of January, 1837, that she gave her hand in marriage to Samuel Ellis, and they became the parents of seven children : Susan, born September I, 1838, was the eldest, Eli. Ixirn December 19, 1841, was a member of Company B, Fortieth Ohio X'olunteer Infantry, durina: the Ci\il w ar, and was fatally wounded' at Ringgold, Georgia. Sarah Jane, born Janii.'irv 19, 1843, was the next of the family. Simon Peter and Samuel N., twins, were born March 15, 1S45. T^he fonner was a member of Company F, Sixtieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and for eleven months was a prisoner in Libby and Andersonville prisons. Samuel X. was a member of Com- ]>any 11, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Joshua, the subject of this sketch, is next in order of birth. Martha, the youngest, died at the age of three years and thirteen ilays. The father's thjrd marriage was with Mrs. I'rovidence (Scarf) Sewell. a native of Greene county, the wedding being- celebrated abruit the year 1856. Throughout h'is entire life Samuel Ellis carried on agricultural pursuits. He ilied December 11, 1880. at the age of eightv \'ears, two months and sex'en days, and thus the community lost one of its valued pioneer settlers, for from the first decade of the nineteenth centur\- he had l)een a witness of the growth and developmnt of this ix>rtion of the state and had contributed in no small degree to its impro\ement and progress.

At the usual age Joshua Ellis entered the public schools of Jefferson township, but his educational privileges were very limited as his services were needed ujiiin the home farm, where he was employed in the capacity of a cook. When thirteen years of age he left home in 1859 and went to Bowersville, where he entered the employ of J. C. Early, there remaining until 1861. But he could not longer content himself to continue at home when the Union was endangered, and in the fall of that year he offered his services to the government, becoming a member of the Thirty-first Ohio Regiment.

He was, ho\ve\'er, only about fourteen years of age and his father, objecting to his serving so young, secured his release. He was afterward variously employed for two years and in 1863 he again enlisted, this time under Captain Ary of the Sixtieth Ohio Infantry, to serve for one hundred days. He then volunteered on the 17th of February, 1864, with that regiment for three years' service and participated in the battle of the Wilderness; Nye River, May 9-10, 1864; Spottsylvania, May 12. 1864; North Anna River, ]\Iay 25.1864; Bethesda Church. June I, 1864; Shady Grove, June i, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 3, 5, 6, 1864; and Gains Harbor, 1864. He was also before Petersburg on the 17th of June, 1S64. was there at the time of the mine explosion on the 30th of July of the same year, and later took part in the engagements at Weldon Railroad, August 19, 1864; Yellow House Inn, August i, 1864; Poplar Grove Church, September 30, 1864; Pegram Farm, Virginia, Se])tember 30, 1864; Hatchie's Run, Octol)er 20, 1864; Fort Stedman, March 25, 1865 ; the charge on rebel works, April 2, 1865 ; and the capture of Petersburg. His was the first regin-.ent that entered that city and was the second to place its flag on the heights. Mr. Ellis was in the grand review at Washington, D. C, and was discharged at Columbus, Ohio, August 7, 1865. He was a brave and loyal soldier who hesitated not in the performance of duty but faithfully discharged every task assigned to him.

On his return from the war Mr. Ellis worked at farming until his marriage, when he located on a part of his father's farm and operated it for a year. Later be carried on farming at different places in this county, and subsequently engaged in the buggy, wagon and farm implement business at Port William. Ohio, for thirteen years with marked success. After his father's death he bought the old homestead and is now the owner of over two hundred acres of well improved and valuable land. Besides this property he owns a fine residence in Clinton county where his son lives. In connection with general farming he is engaged in stock-raising, making a specialty of short-horn cattle, and has met with good success in all his undertakings.

On the 2T,d of September. 1867. was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Ellis and ]Miss Rachel A. Muri)hy, a native of Greene county and a daughter of Jacob V. and Elizabeth Murphy. Her father was born in Berkeley countv. West Virginia, and lier mother in Greene county. Ohio. They liad five children: William A., born February 2, 1840: Harvey C. born July 18, 1841 ; Israel A., born in 1845; Rachel A., born in 1848; and James L.. born August 3. 1837. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ellis were born two children. Harlev and \"cturrah. The son. who is a resident of Clinton county, was married December 24. 1896, to Miss Kate Linkhart. and they liave one child. Orville. born November 30. 1898. Veturrah is the wife of George L. Linkhart. a native of Greene county, and tliey ha\e one child, Xora A., born October 31, 1897.

Fraternally Mr. Ellis is a member of Morris McMillan Post. G. A. R., of Wilmington, Ohio, and Port W^illiam Lodge, K. P. Politically he is a Republican and his religious faith connects him with the Methodist Episcojial church. The I'lllis family is one of ])rominence in the comnuinity where they reside an<l the\- enjov the high regartl of manv frien-ds. For the past two years the representatives of the name have held family reunions, the first being held August

29, 1900. when two lumdred were present. The second was held September 4, 1901, when three hundred and fifty were present. The last runion was held upon our subject's farm, where his grandfather. Christopher Ellis, had settled in 1807.

Joseph Warrex Kixg

Xo history of Xenia or indeed of this section of Ohio would be complete without mention of Joseph Warren King. He belonged to that little group of distinctivelv representative business men who were the pioneers in inaugurating and building up the chief industries of this section of the country. He early liad the sagacity and ]irescience to discern the eminence which the future had in store for this great and growing country, and. acting in accordance with tire dictates- of his faith and judgment, he garnered, in the fufFness of time, the generous harvest which is the just recompense of indomitable industry, spotless integrity and marvelous enterprise. He also lalxired for the good of the community and his efforts contributed in no small degree to public ])rogress and sulistantial improvement.

Mr. King was a native of Connecticut, his birth having occurred in Suffield, on the 31st of August. 1S14. his parents being Jolni Bowker and llann;ili ( Xewton ) King. His mother was a lineal descendant of Peter Brown, who crossed the Atlantic on the Mayflower. On the paternal side Mr. King was of English lineage, the first of the family coming to this country prior to 1672 as he was then a resident of Ipswich. Massachusetts. There were two branches of the family fouiuled here, one l)eing estaljlislied in the south, while James King settled in Siitiield. Cumiecticut, in i()~H. John Bmvkcr King was descended fmm James King, tln-()Ugli grandfather and father, both of wlioni l)ore tlic name of Joseph. Josepli King, grand fatiier of our subject, was a Revohitionary soldier as was also Jolm Newton, the maternal grandfather. John Bowker l\ing was a man of good business ability, a substantial farmer and an ui)right man. He died .May 30, 1^5.^

Joseph Warren King spent liis boyhood da\s upon his fatlier's farm and in early youth attended the district schools near his iiome. He accpiired a liberal education for those days in different schools in that part of the country and before attaining his majority desired to start out in life for himself, but according to the laws of Connecticut his father had a right to his .services until he was twenty-one years of age. He therefore bought his time of his father and entered upon his business career as a took agent, in which he was (luite successful. After a short time he sought a home in the west, locating first in W'estfield (now Leroy), Medina county, Ohio.

In 1838 Mr. King returned to Connecticut and was there married to Betsey Kendall, of Suffield. a daughter of Captain Simon Kendall and his wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Kent. The latter was a lineal descendant of Governor William Bradford, who came to this country in the Mayflower and also of Major John ]Mason, who won fame in the Pecpiot war and wdio was to the Connecticut colony what Miles Standish was to the Plymouth colony. After their marriage Mr. King and his bride made their trip to their western home bv wav of the Krie canal and Lake Eric, and began their domestic life in a small house, a part of which was built of logs. In this they had the first cooking stove e\cr brought to the comity and it e.xciteil much curiosity thr( lughout the countryside. Thus amid pioneer conditions and enduring many of the trials which constitute the lot <:>f the settler on the frontier, .\lr. King got his start in the west. In Westheld he opened a general store, carrying all kinds of goods that were in demand by the settlers of those days. His business ability was soon manifest and brought him success, and he was considered one of the most ]ironiinent men of a wide territorx'.

h'rom Wcstlicld Mr, King removed to Lima, Ohio, seeking a l)roader field of labor, and there he carried on business on a nn )re extensive scale. He not only engaged in general merchandising, but also firganized the firm of King & Day, to engage in the business of pork-packing. They were among the pioneers in inaugurating this industrv in Ohio and were \'ery successful in the new enterprise. In Lima Mr. King also attained to an enviable position in commercial and financial circles, but again he .sought a broader field, and aljout the mitldle of the century took up his abode in Xenia, where he entered into partnership with Alvin Austin, under the firm name of Austin, King & Company, in the establishment of a powder manufactory. Of this Mr. King afterward became sole proprietor, purchasing IMr. Austin's interest. He then incorporated the business under the name of the Miami Powder Company and for more than twenty years was the president. Under his capable direction the business constantly increased, making necessary the erection of an extensive planl in Dnler to meet the growing demands of the trade. At length he disposed oi his fn-st plant and in 1878 mcorporated King's Cireat \\estern Powder Company, of which he was the president. The plant was located at King's Station, and the volnme of Inisiness there carried on constantly increased. Mr. King remained an acti\e factor in the conduct of the enter- ])risc nntil his death. A man of resonrceful business ability, he was (|nick to recognize a favorable business opportunity and his decision of character led him to take advantage of these undeterred by tardy action. He became an active factor in financial circles, realizing the need of money exchanges as an aid to the business of this section. He was one of the organizers of the Citizens National Bank, of Xenia, l>ecame its first president, and continued in that position until his death. He was also the owner of the Merchants & Manufacturers Bank, of Columbus, Ohio, and was its president until his life's labors were ended. Many other enleqjrises of importance iirofited by his financial co-operation and wise counsel. He was connected with pork-packing houses in Lima and with in.n and paper manufactories. Intricate business propositions and projjlems he seemed to comprehend at a glance, and his judgment was rarely, if ever, at fault. Like all who are connected with important enterprises furnishing employment to many operatives and promoting the commercial activity of the comnuuiity. his labors were of widespread benefit to his fellow men.

wife of the i\e\'. Dr. \b:)rehead ; Marv is the wife of G. M. Peters, of Cincinnati, Ohio ; Elouisa is the wife of C. C. Nichols, a banker of \\'ilmington, Ohio; and Isadora and Emma are at home in Nenia. The father died July 8, 1885, and the mother, on the 3d of .Alarch, 189G. Both were earnest and acti^'e members of the Baptist church. Air. King took a \ery prominent part in its work and was its main support for many years. Together with another he gave the parsonage which is nnw a part of the church property, and he usually liore one-third or more of the expenses of the church. For many years he was superintendent of the Sunday-school, and his influence was ever on the side of justice and the right. His wealth \\as so honorably won and so worthily used that the most envious could not grudge him his success. He started out as do the majority of young men nf the country - witln )nt capital - and prospered liecause he had the force of character, the steady application and the energy which coni|iier all obstacles and steadily advance e\'en in the face of opposition. His life work was indeed of value to his section of Ohio, and as he mastered and controlled extensive business interests he also won the confidence and respect of his employes and the warm friendship of manv whom he met in business as well as soci;d life. Kindness was one of the motives of his life. He had a well s])ring of affection and a rpiick and generous svmpathv w hich increased by giving, and the many who looked u]) tn him and resi)ected him realized as fully as did his most intimate friends and family that when death claimed him a true man had fallen.

For sixty-one years Jacob Bates traveled life's journey and throughout the entire l)erioil was known to the residents of (Ireene county, being one of the prominent agriculturists of Beavercreek township. He was i)orn in an old log cabin in this township on the 19th of .March. 1827. his parents being Jacob and Margaret Bales. The father <lied when our subject was only eight years of age. and as the family was in somewhat difficult straits our subject had to start out in life for himself Uhen but a boy. and this of course cut oft his educational privileges. 'rhrnu,i;houl his entire life he carried on fanning and prospered in liis undertakings, for he manifestetl marked diligence in his work. From early morning until late at night he could have been found in the fields caring for his crops from the tiu'.e uf the early spring ])lanting until after the harvests were garnered in the autumn. In later years, when he liad attained a considerable degree of success, he was enabled in some measure to retire from farm work and left the more arduous duties of the fields to others.

Chi the 25th of Octol^er, 1848, JMr. Bates was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Sni]je, w ho was lx)rn in Beavercreek township July 15, 1830, a daughter of Solomon and Mary Ann (Frost) Snipe. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, who, when but eighteen months old, was brought to Ohio l)y his parents, Rynehavt and Susanna Snipe, the former of French descent, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania and of (jerman lineage. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Bates was blessed with nine children : Sanuiel. a resident of AIontgomer_\' cnunty.

married Alice Finafrock and they have three children - Samuel, Sally and William. Margaret is the wife of Jacob Goldshot. a resident of Beavercreek township, and they have a family of eight children - Emma, Frank. Charles. Annie. IVIargaret. Jac(ib. Etta, and Harry, who was drowned. Jacob, a resident of Dayton, married Ann Hotop, and has four children - Edward, Viola, Benjamin and Harry. Franklin P. resides with his mother. Catherine is also living on the old homesteail. David married Nancy Margaret McCauslanil and they have four children - John William Le Roy, David I'.lmer, -Albert Edward and J<iseph Oscar.

After his marriage Jacob Bates was engaged in farming nu rented laud for a time, and in 1850 he jnu'chased one-half of the l)resent farm upon which his widow is now li\ing. and the other h:df he inherited from his father's estate. His purchase was a tract of woodland, upon \\hicli scarcely an improvement had been made. Later he added to his ]iroperty a tract of nineteen acres, so that the farm comprises one hundred and seventy-nine acres. For a time Mr. and Mrs. Bates resided in a log cabin, living in ])ioneer st_\-le, but as his financial resources increased he made improvements upon his property, erected a house, built a barn and added other necessary buildings for the shelter of grain and stock. He Iniilt his house during the time of the Civil war at a cost of about two thousand dollars, securing the timber upon his own land and hewing it bv hand. His marked energy and careful management made his farm a good one. which returned a golden reward for his labors. As his financial resources increased Mr. Bates also invested in city propertv in Da\ton. l;)ut this has been sold since his death. He started nut in life a poor Ijoy, working as a farm liand for a time, and at length rented land until he was enabled to purchase for himself. His life history proves that energy and determination are effective factors in winning prosperity.

Mr. Bates died July J. 1888. He was a memljer of the German Reformed church, in which he held many offices and took an active ))art in the work. In politics he was a Democrat, but never sought office as a reward for public fealty, preferring to deVote his time and attention to private life, providing for his wife and children. His was an active and useful career antl therefore his memory is cherished by his family and many friends. Mrs. Bates still resides upon the old homestead. She was an able assistant through all the years of their married life, and he freely acknowledged his indelitedness for her aid. She carefully managed the afYairs of the household and reared her children, and now she receives the love and considration of her sons and daughters.

George M. Hagler

Among the farmers of Spring \'alley township accounted representative citizens of Greene county is George Mallow Hagler, wlio was born in the township of Xenia on the 9th of August. 1858. his parents being \\'illiam and Mary (Scroggs) Hagler. His boyhood days were spent upon the home farm and in the district schools he actpiired a fair English education. To his father he gave the benefit of his services until he had attained his majority, when he began working as a farm hand bv the month.

and after one season had passed he engaged in farming on his own account on land belonging to his paternal grandmother. He had good success in the undertaking and won a fair start in that way.

On the 2 1st of Deceml)er, 1882, ^Ir. Hagler was united in marriage to !Miss Ruth. C. Anderson, of Spring Valley, a daughter of Joseph and Matilda (Steinfield) Anderson. For a year after their marriage they remained upon his grandmothers's farm and then Mr. Hagler rented the St. John farm on the Burlington pike, continuing its cultivation for five years. He then removed to the place upon which he now resides, leasing it for a term of five years, and on the expiration of that period he purchased the farm, becoming the owner of one hundred and thirty-three acres. He has a good house, substantial outbuildings and many modern inipro\ements and etjuipments. He has placed about fifteen hundred rods of tiling upon his land, transforming it into a very rich and arable tract, upon which he produces excellent crops. In 1902 he extended the boundaries of his place by adding a tract of sixty-one and one-half acres adjoining the original purchase. In his farming operations Mr. Hagler is prosperous, his well directed efforts bringing to him good harvests, and in the town markets he finds a ready sale for his products.

The home of our subject and his wife has been blessed with five children : Joiseph Lewis, who was born in Jasper township; Carrie M., born in Xenia township; Ollie May, also born in Xenia township; and Albert .\. and William F., who are natives of Spring \'alley township. The family is well known in the community, and the hospitality of manv of the best homes is extended to them. Mr. Hauler is a supporter of the Re]iuljHcan ]jarty, having been identified tlierewith frmn t!;e time he cast liis first presidential vote for James A. Garfield in 1880. He has ne\er sought or desired ofiice, liowescr, i)referring to give his time and energies to his business affairs. His farm is the visible evidence of his life of industry and earnest toil, and as the architect of his own fortunes he has certainly buildcd wiselv and well.

Axdrew I'.Isixe

.viulrew Bisine, one of Xenia's highly respected citizens, has for man\- years been a respected resident of this place and his life history illustrates the possibilities that lay before yoiuig men of foreign birth who seek homes in the new world. If they possess energy, determination antl enterprise they will reap an abundant harvest for their labors. This Mr. Bisine has done and is now enjoying a richly deserved rest surrountled by all the comforts secured to him through the fruitful <iiit:-on:e of his former toil.

He w-as born in Hesse, Germany, June 22, 1820, and is one of a family of four children, whose jjarents were Conrad and Elizabeth ( Hull) Bisine. His father was born,, li\ed and died in Germany and there engaged in farming for twenty years. He was also a soldier of his native country and died when comparati\ely a young man, passing awa}' at the age of forty-two. In the schools I.A his native country Andrew Bisine obtained his education and upon his father's farm was reared, working in the fields and meadows as the years passed by. In 1839, when nineteen years of age, he determined to seek a hon-.e ar.d fortune in the "'land of the free," for he had heard favorable reports concerning business opportunities here. Crossing the Atlantic, he landed in Baltimore, where he ren:ained for a short time, working at anything that would yield him a good living. He afterward resided ia Pittsburg and Cincinnati, where he was similarly employed, and from the latter city he removed to Dayton, but not finding profitable work there he came to Xenia, walking a distance of more than fifteen miles. He did not know the English language and German residents of Xenia were at that time few, Init he was resolute, ambitious and determined, and these qualities aided him in overcoming obstacles and winning success. He found employment in the Grand hotel, where he remained for five years, and during that time he became familiar with the English tongue. He afterward engaged in clerking in a general store for John Ewing for ten or twelve years, but when the Civil war was declared he could not content himself to remain at home while the Union was in danger and enlisted at Richmond as a meniljer of Company F, One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Infantry, under Colonel Kiver. in 1862. The regiment went into camp at Piqua, Ohio, and from there proceeded to Parkersburg, and on to Clarksville. going thence to X'ew Creek and afterward to Winchester, Virginia, where the army remained for six months. There Mr. Bisine assisted in guarding the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. He was in the important liattle of Gettysburg, taking part in the thickest of the fight, and there he saw half oi his regiment captured and destroyed, the wounded and killed amountino' to about five liiindred. He. however. n\atle his escape from the enemy and prcxreetleil to Harper's Ferry, where lie j(jinecl tlie L'niiiii army. He afterward participated in many skirmislies and then returned to Xew York city, wliere lie remained for three weeks. On account of wounds he had previously sustained he was obliged to go to Alexandria and enter the hospital, where he laid for four months in a critical condition. In Xovember. 18O3. he was lionorably discharged on account of disability and returned to Xenia. From that time until 1890 he was an active factor in business circles in this city, and through his enterprise a!id capable management won a handsome competence, which enabled him to yut aside Inisiness cares in 1890 and retire from active pursuits.

Mr. Risine was married, on the 28th of March. 1843, to Miss Susie Carr. who was born in Hesse. Germany. Their union was blessed with three children, but all are now deceased, and on the 28th of March, 1888. Mr. P.isine was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife. He and his family were all men-.bers of the Methodist church, and he is still identified with that denomination. He resides in a pleasant home at Xo. 123 A\"e.st Market street and has many friends in Xenia. who admire him for what he has accomplished in life and respect him for his genuine worth. He has now passed the eighty-second milestone on life's journev. and his has been a useful and honorable career. The hope that led him to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized. He found the opportunities he .sought. - which, by the way. are always open to the ambitious, energetic man. - and making the best of these he has steadily worked his way u])ward. He possesses the resolution, perseverance and reliability so characteristic of people of his nation, and his name is now enrolled among the best citizens of Greene countw

James B. Gregg

L'piin a farm, the patent of which bears date 1800. an<l in a stone house which was erected in 1832, James B. Gregg is now living. This farm, from the time of its transfer from the goxernment's possession, has l)ecn ownetl by representatives of the Gregg family. It was upon this place, which is situated in Cedarville township, that our subject first o])ened his eyes to the light of day, on the 26th of March, 1838. He is a son of John and Mary Isabelle (Brown) Gregg. His grandfather, John Gregg, was a nati\e of Ireland w ho came to the United States prior to the Revolutionary war and when the colonists, attempting to throw of the yoke of British oppression, were engaged in the Revolutionary war, he joined the army for independence and served for seven years with the rank of lieutenant. His brother was also in the service and they were mustered out at Philadelphia. On that day they separated and never heard from each other afterward. The grandfather of our subject soon went to Kentucky, where he remained for some years, and al)out 1804 removed to Ohio, purchasing from the government the tract of land upon which our subject now resides. Tlis original ]nn"chase coni))rised six hundred acres. Here he built a log cabin and made a home for himself and family, spending his remaining days upon this place, wliicli he dexeloped into an excellent farm. His death occurred when he ha<l reached the acKanceil age of eightv- .se\en years, lie was an elder in the old Seceder church of which the Rev. Armstron.sf served as pastor. Plis political support was given the W hig party. He was (jne of the pros])erous men of his communitv and an inlluential and u])right citizen.

jolm Gregg, the father of our subject, was also horn ujjon tlic ol<l homestead which is now occui)ied by his son J'lnies H. In the district .schools of the neighlxjrhood he acquired his education and throughout bis entire life carried on general farming and the raising of stock, never lea\ing bis l)irtbplace. He held membership in the United Presbyterian church and died u])ou the old home farm at the age of seventy years. His wife sur\i\ed him for many years, passing a\\ay in 1898, at which tinie she was also interred in the WDodland cemeterv of Xenia. In their famil_\- were five children : David .\., a retired farmer living in Xenia: James B. ; Mary Jane, who became the wife of James A. Turner, of Miami township, and died fifteen years ago; Margaret, the wife of I. X. Laughead, of Illinois; and John C. who is engaged in teaching in the pulilic schools of Brazil, Indiana.

James B. <jregg was educated in tiie common schools near his home. He was early trained to farm work, so that when he began work upon bis own account practical experience enabled him to carry on his labors profitably. As a companion and helj)- mate for life's journey he chose ^lary A. McCollum, their wedding being celebrated fMi the 2')th of August, 1868. The lady is a daughter of James McCollum, of Xenia township, who was a native of Ireland an<l can'.e to the United States in 1856, accompanieil by Jiis family. Choosing Greene county as a desirable jjlace of residence, he located on a farm in Xenia township, where he died at an advanced age. His wife is also deceased. When he crossed tlie Atlantic to the new world he was accompanied by his wife and their eight children. The former, also a nati\e of the Green Isle of lirin. bore the maiden name of Margaret Wright. .Mr. McCollum was tifty-five years of age at the time of the emigration, his !)irth having occurred in July, 1800. The famil\- home was three miles from Cedar- \ illc. w here Mr. McCollum purchased a partially improved farm of seventy-three acres, ui)on which be lived for ten years. On the expiration of that peiiod be removed to a farm in Xenia townsbii). consisting of two luindred and ten acres. There he erected a large farm bouse, good barns and otiier outbuildings and continued to engage in the cultivation of the soil until his death, wliich occurred July 10, 1875. He w-as a member of the Reformed Presyterian church, of Cedar\ille, to which his wife also l>elonged. She died in 1894 at the age of eighty-one \ears, antl lj<jth were buried in Massiescreek cemeter}- near Cedarville. In their faiuily were ten children, of whom five are \et living, and with one exception all were Ixirn in Ireland.

Tliroughout their married life Mr. and Mrs. Gregg have lived upon the old family homestead of one hundred and eighty-two acres which he now owns. It has never been out of possession of the family since and is endeared to our subject from the associati :)ns of bis l^oyhood as well as because it has been the residence of his later years. In politics Mr. Gregg is a Republican, and he and his wife belong to the Reformed Presbyterian cliurcli of Cedarville, in wliich he is serving as a trustee. The worthy representative of an honored pioneer family, he well deserves mention in this volume. His entire life has here been passed and those who know him gi\e him their regard because of his honorable and straightforward career.

James Ii. Kyle

James H. Kyle, who is now li\ing retired in Xenia. was born in Greene county. Ohio, h'ebruary i^, 1839. and is a son of James and Delilah (Gartrell) Kyle, also nati\'es of Ohio. The father engaged in farming and upon the old family homestead reared his seven children, but only two oi the uumljcr are now lixing, - James H. and Samuel, both residents of Xenia.

Jn the public schools of Xenia township James H. K_\le obtained his education, spending his boyhood days in the usual manner of farmer lads of the period, and after putting aside his text books he engaged in farming for some years. After the inauguration of the Civil war, however, he jnit aside all personal consideration in order to aid in the preservation of the Uni(jn. From the workshop, the field, the counting rooms avid the offices men flocked to the standard of the nation, and among the number was Mr. Kyle, who, in August, 1862. joined Company H, of the Ninety-fourth Ohio, under the command of Captain Kyle and Colonel Brazil. The latter was killed in the first fight in which the regiment participated. Assigned to the Army of the Potomac, the Ninety-fourth Ohio participated in many important engagements, including the battles of Perr\ville, Stone River and Mur- Ireesboro. INIr. Kyle ser\-ed from 1862 until 1865, and then with an honorable military record returned to his home, for he was always found at his post of duty, whether on the picket line or the firing line. In 1865 he was mustered out at Xew York. He lost his right arm at Bentonville, North Carolina, that member being struck by a minie ball in such a way as to necessitate amputation. It was on the 19th of March. 1865. that he was wounded and sent to the hospital at Goldsboro, North Carolina, afterward to Charleston. South Carolina, subsequently to New York and then to the hos- |)ital on East ri\er, where he remained for six months, after which he returned home in September. 1865. He went to the front as a private, but was jiromoted to the rank of cor])oral anc^afterward to sergeant.

When he h^Bagain taken up his abode in Greene coumy Mr. Kyle received the nomination for township clerk, and being elected continued in that office for seven }ears. He w as then appointed by the go\- ernment to the position of assessor, and afterward was made store keeper at Trebeins. Subsequently he was transferretl to Okltown and continued in the government service for two years. He was next aj;- pointed deputy sheriff and for four years acted in that ca])acity in Greene county. He then became candidate lor office and being elected served as sheriff for four years, retiring from office as he had entered it with the confidence and good will of the entire public. ]\Ir. Kyle then purchased his livery business, built a fine barn and for twentysix years successfully conducted the same. Iiaving a liberal pat:o-age which brought to him a good return. For some time he also conducted a sale stable. Ijut is now retired from business, residing in his comfortable home at the corner of Market and W'hileman streets.

On the i5tli of April, 1878, :\Ir. Kyle was united in in.irriage to Miss Lottie Brubal<er. of Springfield, Clark county, Ohio, her -father. Daniel Brubaker, ha\ing been one of the early settlers of that count}'. Mrs. Kyle is a menilier of Trinitx- cluu\-h (if Xenia and is an estimable lady. !Mr. Kyle maintains pleasant relationship with his old army comrades through his membership in Xenia Post. Xo. -17. G. A. K.. of which he was one of the charter members, taking a very active part in its organization. He is to-tlay as true to his duties of citizenship as when upon the southern battle fields he followed the nation's starr\- banner.

Among the representative farmers of Beavercreek townshij) is numbered John Martin Hawker, whose birth occurred in this township on the 3d of Alay, 1841, his parents being Frederick and Sarah Hawker. The father was also Ijorn in the same township near the Hawker church, while the grandfather, Andrew Hawker, was numbered among the pioneer settlers of the county, ha\ing arri\-ed here at a very early day. Amid the wild scenes of frontier life Frederick Hawker was reared. He pursued his education at the district schools and his own fireside, but his opportunities in that direction were quite limited. After arriving at \ears of maturitv he married Sarah Ritter.

and of the union ten children were born, of whom one died in infanc\. The others were: Simon, who was born March 26, 1S29, and is living in Illinois; Mary Ann, born December 6, 1830, is the deceased wife of Samuel \\ iggam : Emanuel, wh<:) was !iorn January 28, 1833, and is a resident of Illinois; Rebecca, who was born December - 5. 1834, and married John Moler. their home being in Bea\ercreek township: Sarah .\nn. who was born October i. 1837. and is the wife of Walter Kerr, a resident of California; Andrew, born January i, 1840, died in childhood; John ^I.. of this review; Perry, who was born .\ugust 4. 1845. '*"*' resides in Beavercreek township : Martha, who was- born January 25, 1847. ''"'' ^^ ^'^^ widow of William ^\'olf, her home being in Ciark county, Ohio. The father of this family died March t8. 1874. having long survived his wife, who passed away in 1853. Both were interred in the Hawker cemetery. .\fter the death of his first wife the father was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Mary Kerr. She died in Sidney, Ohio, where she was visiting a daughter. Mr. Hawker was a Democrat in his political \iews and strongly endorsed the principles of the party. Both he and his Avife were members of the German Reformed church .-^.nd iie filled a number of its offices. He was a man of strong religious convictions, liutting forth every effort to ad\-ance the cause of Christianity and several times he filled the pulpit in the absence of the regular minister. Although his educational pri\ileges were limited he gained broad knowledge by reading, investigation and observation. In his farming operations he was verv successful and at the time of his death he owned four farms aggregating about five

Mr. Hawker, wliose name introduces this record, acquired liis education in tlie common scliools of Beavercreek township, but attended for only a brief period each year. He was found in the schoolroom only when his ser\ices were not needed upon the farm, conse(|uently his education in the schoolroom was limited, but by reading and observation, coupled with natural ability, Mr. Hawker has come to be a man of broad general knowledge. He lived at home until he was thirty-three years of age. when he went to Dayton, Ohio, and with his brother Emanuel he conducted a livery stable upon Fourth street in that city for about two years. At the expiration of that period he returned to the old homestead and resumed farming upon the land which he now owns.

As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Mr. Hawker chose Miss Emma Pasco, their marriage being celebrated on the 19th of August, 1870. The lady was lx)rn in Daxton, and is a daughter of James Elias and .'-iophia (Davey) Pasco. The mother died during the early girlhood of her daughter. IJoth Mr. and Mrs. Pasco were born in England, and on coming to this country they took up their abode in Davton. They had four children, William James, who is now living in Davton ; Emma Jane, the wife of our subject: Ida Mary, who became the wife of James Latham and is now living in Florida: and Luella Sarah, the w ife of Clarence W. Clary, also of Dayton. The father afterward married a second time, when Catherine Kuhns became his wife. They, too, had four children. In 1892 Mr. Pasco was called to his linal rest

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hawker has been blessed with ten children : Clarence, who was born on Christmas ilav of 1S71, is living with his father. Bessie B., who was born February 11. 1873, died on March 7, of that year. Harry, who was born January 28, 1 874, is an employe in the State Insane Asylum in Dayton. Xoena Blanche, who was born April 4, 187^, is the wife of Harry Aeter, a resident of ]\Iontgomery county, Ohio, by whom she has one child, Harry Frederick. Frederick James, who was born December 3, 1878, is operating the home farm. Herbert Sanford, who was born June 21, 1882, died seven davs later. Clara Mabel, who was lx>rn November 24, 1887, died on the 17th of July, 1888. Mary and Martha, twins, were born September 17, 1889, while Mary died on the loth of April, 1891, and Martha is at home. Carrie, born May 12, 1891, the youngest of the family, is at home.

Since his marriage Mr. Hawker has remained u])on the old homestead which is now operated by his son, while our subject is practically living a retired life. The farm, comprising one hundred and sixty-three acres, is splendidly developed and improved with all modern equipments and accessories. In 1893 the home was destroyed by fire. i)ut Mr. Hawker and his sons erected a fine large residence. He has a lar.ge and very desirable property and everything about the place is licpt in .good repair, while .general farming and stock raising are carried on very successfully. Mr. Hawker votes with the Democracy, and he and his family are connected with the Reformed church, in which he has ser\ed as deacon. His life has been in Iiarnidiiy witli its teachings and his belief is manifest by tlie honorable relations in all the walks (if life. He conmiands the confidence and respect of his fellow men by reason of his upright career, and all who know hiin entertain for him a warm regard.

Aaron Crites owns and operates a good farm of one hundred acres of land in Spring Valley township and is numbered among the progressive agriculturists of his community, for he follows modern methods of farming and a glance at his place would indicate to the passer-by his careful su])ervision. He was born in Grant county, West Virginia, February 23, 1840, a son of Joel and Sarah (Crites) Crites. .\lthough the parents bore the same family name they were not related. The mother died when our subject was al)out eleven years of age, and was buried uixm the old Crites farm in her native state. The following year the father came with his children to Greene county, Ohio, and a year later removed to Montgomery county. Illinois, but when two years had passed he returned to Ohio. Our subject, however, remained in Illinois for a year longer and then joined the famil\- in the Buckeye state. Joel Crites, howe\er, did not continue liis residence here for a very long period. When a few years had ])assed he went to ncjrth western Missouri, where he spent his remaining days.

Aaron Crites remained in Greene county. From the time the family removed to Illinois he had depended upon his own resources for a living and was employed as a farm hand. Uy the tiirc he had reached tiie age of twenty-five years he had saved enough money to enable him to begin farming on his own account. He then rented land and his sister acted as his housekeeper for a time. Later he was married, in this county, to Mrs. Margaret P.abb. nee Evans, and unto them were born two children: \\ illirim E., who is now a farmer in Spring Valley townshi]) ; and Sarah Mav, who resides with \\'illiam. For his second wife Mr. Crites chose Miss Mary Thomas, who was 1x)rn in Sugarcreek townshi[) and is a daughter of George W. and Rachel 'i'homas. This marriage was celebrated on the 22(1 of November. 1899.

Mr. Crites' first ]iurchase of land consisted of thirty-three acres, upon which he lived for a numlier of years. After his sec- ' >nd marriage he purchased his present farm oi one hundred acres in Spring \'alle\' township, and u]3on this he has excellent iml)ro\ements, which he has placed there himself. His fields are well tilled and annually rettuMi to him good harx'ests. From early boyhood (lei)endent upon his own resources, he has steadil\- worked his way upward, and his life history illustrates the power of industry and enterprise in the business world.

Mr. Crites holds membership in the Methodist Episc(jpal church at Spring \'alley and is serving as one of its stewards. He is also a worker in the Sunday-school, in which he has served as teacher for a ipiarter of a century. His wife was reared in the Baptist faith and both are earnest Christian people who are striving to make die golden rule the guide of their lives. Mr. Crites w-as reared in the Democratic faith, but cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1864 and continued to support the Republican party until after ]88o. when he voted for Garfield. Since that time he has been an advocate of Prohibition principles, and at one time was the nominee of the party for sherifif. Fraternally iie was at one time connected with the l\ed Men. the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Masonic fraternity, the Sons of Temi)erance and the Grange, but is not identified w ith any of these organizations at the present time. The greater part of his life has been ])assed in Greene county, where he has a wide acquaintance. He is a man of unfaltering integrit\- and untiring industry and iierseverance.

Robert S. Spahr

Robert S. Spahr, who has recently removed to Xenia, is now a member of the firm of Spahr & Long, who are engaged in business at Xo. 45 Main street, handling shelf and heavy hardware, stoves, etc. It was in July. 1902. that he bought an interest in this business, which was an old established one. and he now devotes his attentiiin to his mercantile interests. He was born in Xenia township. Ai)ril I. 1843. li'^ i)arents being Gideon and Elizabeth (Kyle) Spahr. The father was born in Virginia, in 1813, and was a son of Edward Spahr. who was a nati\e of the Old Dominion. He carried on agricultural pursuits in his native state and in 1S21 came with his family to Ohio, making the trip overland. He settled in Xenia township, where he cleared and developed one hundred and sixty acres of land. u]K)n which he spent his remaining days. His death occurred in the '60s and his wife died