Madison County, Ohio - Biographical sketches (2 of 2 so headed), 1883 (part 1 of 13)

Biographical sketches

PRESTON ADAIR, farmer and stock raiser. P. O. London. His ancestry can be traced back to Ireland. John Adair, Sr., enlisted in the British Army, and when the American colonies threw off the yoke of tyranny, he accompanied Gen. Cornwallis to America. After the war. he settled in Augusta County. Va., where he married Jane Ross. Tbey were the parents of seven children. One son, John Adair, Jr., the father of our subject, was born near Stanton, Va. . November 11, 1783. His mother dying young, he was taken to raise by an uncle. In 1808, when twenty-five years of age, he accompanied his father to Ohio, stopping at Chillicothe and remaining there as guests of Gen. IN re Arthur for some days. They then came to Madi son County, where John. Sr.. purchased a tract of land, about one mile north of the present site of La Fayette, where he resided till his death, in L815. John Adair then married, and purchased a tract of land from Gen. McArthur, located on the "Upper Glade," in Deer Creek Township, and consisting of eighty acres. He married Jane Ross, a native of Virginia, and the result of this union was the birth of twelve children. Seven of these grew to mature years, and six are now living. Mrs. Adair died in June, 1837, and Mr. Adair married for his second wife, in 1840, Miss B. Plymell. No children were given them. Mr. Adair died January 1'.), 1859, and his widow resided with our subject until the date of her death, in April. 1876. John Adair. Sr., was an extensive stock-dealer of that time; in political life a Whig, but entertaining a strong dislike for office-holding. He was an earnest Christian, and a pioneer Methodist of that community. The first Methodist Episcopal " class meeting" in that vicinity was held in a " squatter's cabin," on his land. Preston Adair, his son and our subject, was born on the old homestead June 11, 182(J. He was there reared, receiving only a limited education. His mother died, and his older brothers had all left home, so, from the time he was twelve years of age until thirty, he remained with his father and step-mother, carrying on the farm. He w;is married, September 20, I85(.t. to Hannah Street, a native of Knox County. Ohio. daughter of John and Ann (Robison) Street, who came from England to Rose County. Ohio, in 1840. After marriage, Mr. Adair carried on the home farm for three years, and, in April, 1864, removed to his present comfortable residence, on East High street, London. Upon the death of his parents, he purchased the old homestead, and has since added to it, until at present it consists of 400 acres of valuable land. Mr. Adair is a thorough Republican in political views, and, in the fall of 1880, was elected Infirmary Director for a term of three years. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal denomination since a boy of twelve years, and at present is a Steward and class leader in the church at London. He is also connected with the Masonic Lodge and Council. Five children have been given to Mr. and Mrs. Adair, four living - Nettie; John W., in attendance at

Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio; Bruce, who has been blind for the past two years and is being educated at the Ohio State Blind Asylum, at Columbus; and Byers. Mrs. Adair and the two elder children are also members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Thomas Robison, grandfather of Mrs. Adair, resides at Mount Vernon, Ohio, aged eighty-seven years.

FULTON ARMSTRONG, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. London, was born in Union Township January 31, 1825. He is a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Earl) Armstrong, natives of Ohio, where they spent their lives. His father was an extensive farmer and stock-dealer, and at one time owned 3,500 acres of land in this county. His people were among the very early settlers in this vicinity. Our subject received a limited education in the schools of his native county, and early in life adopted the occupation of farming. He commenced life by farming and stock-dealing in Vermillion County, 111., where he spent eighteen years. He owns 1,000 acres of very fine land in the county, in addition to which he rents about 50u acres to increase his facilities for his extensive stock operations. He usually keeps about 200 head of cattle on his place, in addition to his stock cattle, and now has 350 head. He married Mary Rankin, who died in 1808. She was the mother of four children, all now deceased. In 1869, he married Elizabeth (Truitt) McMillan, widow of George McMillan, deceased. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Armstrong is a Republican in politics, but he has neither desired or accepted any offices.

Fd) WARD -ARMSTRONG, of Armstrong & Minshall. dealers in furniture and queensware. London, was born on the " Old Bradford farm," in Union Township, this county, January 1, 1850. His father was Robert Armstrong, a native of Chillicothe. Ross County, Ohio. He was twice married. His second wife, and the mother of our subject, was Mrs. Maria (Cowling) Cover, a sister of Maj. Cowling, so favorably known throughout Madison County, and a native of England. There were born to this union five children, four living. Mi". Armstrong was the father of fifteen children by both marriages, and his wife, beiug also twice married, was the mother of eleven chilcfren. The father died in 1865, and the mother in 1873. Our subject was the fourth child of this union, and grew to manhood on the farm. When fifteen years of age, he came to Londou, and entered the public schools. In 1869, he entered the drug store of Dr. Caldwell, of Cedar - ville. Greene County. Ohio, as a clerk with him altogether about tw<> years. He then returned to London and engaged in the drug business with Dr. J. T. Houston, the firm doing business for seven years. Mr. Armstrong then formed a partnership with E. J. Robinson in the same business. and. three years later, in January, 1880, sold his interest to Dr. Piatt King. In June, 1882, he formed a partnership with Leon Minshall, in his present business, and, on the 23d day of the month, the firm opened out with an elegant assortment of plain and faDcy furniture, queensware, etc. Their trade has exceeded their most sanguine expectations. Mr. Armstrong is a member of Chandler Lodge, No. 138, Masonic, the Methodist Episcopal Church, ami. politically, is a strong Republican. He was married, October 12, 1876, to Alice, daughter of H. W. Richman, a prominent citizen of Londou. Mr-. Armstrong is also a member of the Presbyterian Church.

JONATHAN ARNETT, surveyor and civil engineer. London. w;i> born in Ross County. Ohio, August 30, L819. His father, William D. Arnett, was a native of Eastern Maryland, and a farmer by occupation. He came to Ohio in 1S17. Locating in Ross County, where he resided twelve pears. He then removed to Jefferson Township of this county, and lived of Maryland. They had twelve children, six now living. Mrs. Arnett departed this life December 30, 1874. Jonathan Arnett was the sixth child of this large family, and grew to manhood on the home farm. His early educational facilities were those of pioneer days, and rather limited. He was engaged in farming until twenty-two years of age, and then attended what was termed the " Ohio Conference High School.'' at Springfield, Clark County, remaining there two years. He then taught school in this and adjoining counties i'or about ten years. During this time, he spent his leisure moments in studying his present profession, and finally engaged in that occupation. From 1S~> I to L864, he was engaged in mercantile transactions in this and adjoining counties. He was Acting Chief Engineer of the Dayton A: Michigan Railroad for eight years, surveying the line from Springfield to Troy, Ohio, and subsequently to Union City, Ind. He has -been a resident of London since 1866, and during this period has devoted the daytime to his labor, and the evenings to the study of his profession. He was Surveyor of Madison County two terms; has been School Examiner of Madison County for sixteen years: of Union School. London, same length of time, and was a member of the London School Board for nine years. Mr. Arnett is a member of Chandler Lodge, No. 138, Masonic, and a Master Mason. Politically, he has always held the views adopted by the Democratic party, but on local questions votes for the man and not for or with the party. He has never been an aspirant for office. Mr. Arnett was married in March, 1847, to Esther M. Fellows, a native of Hanover, N. H. Two children were born to them, one living - Delia A., wife of Clinton .Muse. County Surveyor. They have one daughter - Edna. Mrs. Arnett was a member of the M. E. Church, and died in that faith. August '25. 1871. Mr. A. was again married, April 22.1874, to Mrs. Permelia Morse, daughter of Dr. Colliver, of Jefferson, Ohio. She is a native of Kentucky and a member of the Baptist Church.

VALENTINE BAUER, merchant tailor, London, was born at Gerbach, Rhine Bavaiia. Germany, April 14, 1838. His father. Peter Bauer, came to America in 184(J. He located in Columbus, Ohio, where he was engaged in keeping tavern, and died in 1808. He married Catherine Bauer, also a native of Germany. Of their eight children, four are now living - two sons and two daughters - and only two residents of Madison County. Mrs. Bauer departed this lift' in Germany, January 12. 1848. Our subject was fourteen years of age when his lather removed to Columbus, and he resided in that city eight years. He there finished learning his trade, which he had previously commenced in Germany. On October 9, I860, he came to London, and for eleven years was superintendent of the merchant tailoring department in the house of J. M. Winchester. On June 25, 1871, he commenced business for himself. Although having met with some reverses. Mr. Bauer still presses forward, and now enjoys a good patronage. He is a member of Chandler Lodge. No. 138, Chapter No. 73 (Masonic), Madison Lodge, No. 70 (Odd Fellows), of London, and Palestine Commandery. No. 33, Knights Templar, of. Springfield, Ohio. Politically, Mr. Bauer is Republican, and has served several terms as member of the City Council. He was once the Republican nominee for Treasurer of London and defeated by only thirteen votes. He was married, April 23, 1859, to Eva Michel, a native of Stahlberg, Rhine Bavaria, ( ierman v. Ten children have been born to them, six living - Emma. Frank. Clara, Edward, Eva and Robert. Mrs. Bauer is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

NATHAN BOND BLAIR, retired merchant, London, was born in London on the present site of Houston & Burnharn's hardware store, June 24, 1824. He is a son of John and Jency Blair, of Scotch and Irish descent. John Blair was an early pioneer of this county, and a moderate land-holder. He was also an early resident of London. He traded his town property for a small farm, on what is known as the " Lower Grlade, " five miles south of London, to which he removed when our subject was but nine years of age. There the latter's time was occupied in tilling the soil and attending school. When he had secured such an education as the schools of those days afforded, he returned to London, being eighteen years of age. He served a three years' apprenticeship as carpenter and joiner, receiving, during this time, the munificent wages of $3 per month. After serving his apprenticeship, he commenced jour work, being recognized as a skillful carpenter and builder. In 1847, he whs married to Mary Penny. To this union was born one son - Henry C. Mrs. Blair died in the spring of 1849, and the son the following fall. In the fall of 1850, Mr. Blair was again married, to Mrs. E. A. Lamb, who had one son - Oscar E. They have three children - Anna M., Amanda and Harry Nathan, all of whom are living. The latter is managing editor of the London Enterprise. At the time of his second union, Mr. Blair was engaged in milling at Blairtown (named after a member of the family who owned large tracts of land near there), but subsequently returned to London and resumed work at his trade. He was engaged at that for the next seven years, employing from ten to fifteen men. He again bought the saw-mill at Blairtown, and operated it for seven years. He then went to Jefferson and engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in connection with his brother, J. C. Blair. After M>me time, the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Blair continued the business until the spring of 1877, when he removed his stock to Londou. He there carried on the same business for two years, and then disposed of his stock and trade to Lohr & Son. Mr. Blair united with the Methodist Episcopal Chiu'ch when seventeen years of age. He is a charter member of Jefferson Lodge, No. 412 (I. O. O. F.), and the Republican party. He is an honest, upright citizen, an. I highly esteemed by all.

A. J. BLUE, farmer, P. O. London, was born in this State October 31, 1849. He is a son of Harvey A. and Emily (Bowman) Blue, of German descent, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. Our subject attended the district schools of his native county and the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio, graduating from the latter in 1871. He then chose milling for an occupation, and accordingly purchased a grist-mill in London. He followed farming until January 31, 1877, when he married Carrie A. Rankin, a daughter of Albert ami Margaret (Withlow) Rankin. She fell heir to 100 acres of land near London, on which they now reside. They have two children, viz., Harford and Emily A. Mr. Blue is a member of the Baptist Church, and his wife of the Methodist. He is a Republican in politics. His Father was born in 1816, and is still living. His mother was born in 1826, and died in 1881.

l\ J. BOLDS, the oldest boot and shoe merchant in London, and probably of Madison County, was born in Maryland October 20, L828. His father, Thomas Bolds, was also a native of Maryland, and a shoe-maker by trade. He came to London in 1851, and resided there till his death, in 1864, at which time he was the senior member of the hoot and shoe firm of T. Bolds & Son. He married Louisa Jarman. a native of Maryland. They were the parents of eight children, two now living. Mis. Rachel L

Haynes, of Jefferson, and our subject. Mrs. Bolds departed this life February 19, 1837. Our subject was the fourth child of this family, and has been engaged in his present business all his life. He was a member of the firm of T. Bolds & Son, at the time of his father's death, and has since continued the business alone. Mr. Bolds is one of the oldest and most prominent merchants and citizens of London, and a man well respected by the entire community. He is a Republican in politics. He was married, July 18, 1865, to Amanda F. Bryan, a sister of M L. Bryan, of the Madison County Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Bolds are members of the Episcopal Church.

ROBERT BOYD, farmer and stock-raiser, and President of the London Exchange Bank, residence, West High street, London, was born in Washington County. Penn., October 9, 1824. He is a son of James Boyd, also a native of Pennsylvania, and a farmer by occupation. He came to Madison County, Ohio, in September, 1830, locating in Canaan Township. Col. James Milliken had located 2,200 acres of land in this county, in 1829, and divided it equally among his nine children. One daughter, Martha, was the wife of James Boyd, and it was upon her portion of the estate (20' * acres) that they settled. They were the parents of four children, all living, and resi - dents of this county - two sons at Plain City. Darby Township; a daughter, wife of Squire William Kilgore, of Canaan Township, and our subject. James Boyd was about thirty-three years of age at the time of his death. His widow is still living and in her eightieth year. Robert Boyd was the oldest child and grew to manhood on Darby Plains. Canaan Township. H listed his mother on the farm till the date of his marriage, October 18, IS \'.i. when lie was married to Caroline M., daughter of Valentine and Nancy (Roberts) Wilson. /" They came to Ohio about 1810, and now reside in Somerford Township. After marriage, Mr. Boyd engaged in farming for himself, on 145 acres of the home farm, He then sold his land and purchased 4ti" acres in Jefferson Township (now a farm of 420 acres), where he resided rive years. He then removed to his present residence in London. When quite young. Mr. Boyd commenced dealing in stock, and has since continued in that business. He is a member of the firm of Boyd & Byers, probably the largest grazers and dealers in stock in Madison County. Mr. Boyd has been very successful in life, now owning 1,380 acres of land. 113 of which is in the corporate limits ^\' London, and 110 acres constituting the home farm. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a Trustee hi that body. His political views are Prohibition-Republican. He was one of the firsl Directors of the Madison County Infirmary; has been Township Trustee, and served six terms in the Village Council. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have been blessed with five children - Nancy, wife of J. W. s, of Boyd iV Byers; Martha A., wife of A. G\ Carpenter, an attorney w, of Cleveland. Ohio; Albert W., who married Myrtie L. Fowler, of Wyandot County, Ohio: Caroline M. and Robert \V.. the two latter graduates of the London High School.

.). C. BRIDGMAN, auctioneer, London, can trace back his ancestry out the time of Oliver Cromwell, in England. He has in his possession a wood-cut. engraved about that time, and bearing the following inscription: "Charlotte Lady Middleton, daughter of the Right Hon. Sir Orlando Bridgman. Knight and Baronet, Lord-Keeper of ye Great Seale of England, and Lady Dowager of Sir Thomas Middleton, Chirkcastle, in Denbighshire, Baronet for ye advancement of this work, contributed this Plate to whose Patronage it is Huuiblv dedicated \>v R. Blome." It was in

Fathers ** stock. He settled at Hartford, Conn., the r, thence moved to Springfield, Mass., and subsequently to North ton, N. H. John, his only son. had six sons John, born in I rn in lb', v. born in. 16*80; Lbono.or. bom in 1686; CI hem, Alvl. died, another brother, Isaac preached the fui wad the four remaining brothers aoted as pall beare] son, Abol. previously mentioned, married a Miss Fowler, a oousin of 0 S Fowler, the great phrenologisl of Now York city. He w laborious worker, and died at the comparatively early age of forty His widow subsequently married a Mr. Bass. Abel's son. Eri rer, N. H., in 1796, and there resided during his life, 11 through life and died in 1874, at the age of seventy eight j i He i Mary Flagg, ;>. native oi Mass ts, and a daughto

Dr Bazaiele Flagg, a great lover of, and indulger in, praotioal jokes They were the parents of seven children, three daughters and four sons, three living Mary Frances, John C. (our subject) and Nathan C, Adeline Charles, Augusta and Mendal are deceased. Mrs. Bridgman departed life in the summer of isoS. and both parents are buried near Hanover, N ". the old cemetery near the brick church where Abol Bridgman' s ser was preached. Our subject, the fifth ohildand second son >>f this ily. was born at Hanover, N. II.. March 24, 1831, and was there reared Ho obtained a fair oommon-school eduoation, and part of an academic \{c was married, January 19, 1858, to Luoy B Pelton, and. on April 18, dgman and wife arrived at London, this county, Mr. B ired a position as clerk Us W. W. Follows, in the dry goods lino, and remained with him six months. Wo then secured a similar position

Samael Tenny, and subsequently was with Shaw A Poland one j Ho then purchased a half interest in the grocery trade of William Smith, and the firm put out the following sign over their place of business: u Smith \ Bridgman, Genius and Capital Combined " Either the former quality v>t latter necessity failed, for the firm carried on the husiuoss but a few months. After engaging a short time in other enterprises, Mr Bridgman commenced at London in his present business This was in 1856, at tho be ginning of the stock sales in Madison County. Since that time, Mr. Bridg settled up. ho generously relinquished his claim to an j :«' a younger brother who had stayed at homo and taken care of tho old f> - Mr. Bridgman commenced life in Madison Count] without a dollar in money, and has succeeded in life beyond his anticipations. His a >f every description during tho year 1882 amounted to $850,000. \i^ Royal and S M. sonry, and oonneoted with all tho Crater born in Pickaway County, Ohio, 'January 21. 1842. He is a son of Peter Brobst, a native of Berks Comity. Penn., and a farmer by occupation Ee accompanied his father, Jacob Brobst, to Ohio in ISO'-,, the latter lo eating in Fairfield, near Pickaway County. Peter Brobsl is yet living and is in I nty-seventh year, lie married Elizabeth Fellers, a native of

Fairfield County. They w>tc the parents of ten children, seven now living, our subject the only one in this county. Mrs. Brobst departed this life in 1879. Our subject was reared on the home farm in Pickaway County, and in early life " farmed it" for three years. In the fall of L865, he <-ame to Madison County, locating at Jefferson. He there engaged in mer< tile pursuits for four years. He then sold his stock and removed to London, engaging in the sewing-machine business. Ee remained at that

years, and then clerked for P. C. Cowling for four years. Since L880, lie has been connected with Houston & Burnham. Mr. Brobst is an influential member <>( St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, and Dei and Clerk of the official hoard. Politically, he is Democratic. Mr. Brobsl was married, April 7. L862, to Loraine Culp, a native of Pickaway Coi Ohio. They have three children Ernest E., Sarah E. and Anna F. Mrs Brobst is also a member of the Lutheran Church.

MABCELLI'h L. BRYAN, editor and publisher of the Madison Den , . ocrat, was born at Batavia, Clermont Co., Ohio. March 29, 1s'j!:'>. His grandfather, David C. Bryan, who died July 31, L829, w, s bom on Long Island in 1771, and, in L792, married Ruth Bryan. In 1800, he moved to New Jersey, in 1803 to Williamsburg, this county, and, in lH'Zo, to Batavia. He was elected ;i I ;. | tresental i ve in the Legislature in L806, but his seal was contested and given to Thomas Morris, and served as State Senator from 1807 to 1810, when he resigned to become Clerk of the Courts, which place he ably filled until his death, a period of nineteen years. His son, Malancthon A., was then Clerk for some two years. He was born September 26, L803, and died March 27, L832. George S.. another son. was born September 3, L792, and died November 28, \^->'l. and his wife Mary died July L6, L844, aged forty-seven years. Our subject's father, whose name l was also David C, was born on Long Island, and was quite young when brought to Batavia by his parents. In 1828, when only nineteen years of age, he married Miss Mary M. Moore, youngest daughter of Capt. Charles Moore, an ex-Captain of the war of 1812, and an early settler of Clermont County, from Philadelphia. To this union eight children were born, viz., Marcellus L. ; Francis, wife of T. J. Bolds, of London; Charles M., of California; Beulah C. , wife of Joseph Kewley, of Richmond, Ind. ; Dr. A. S. , of Point Pleasant, Clermont County; Rose, wife of Mr. Patterson, of Point Pleasant; Eva. wife of Allen Armacost, of Wayne County, Ind. ; Learner L.. a printer in Chicago; and two daughters that died in infancy. The father was a man of prominence in his community, and at the time of his death was serving as Auditor of Clermont County. He was an Old-Line Whig until the organization of the Republican party, when he became a Democrat. He was held in high esteem by the people and for many years occupied the office of Justice of the Peace. He died in 1867 from the effects of sunstroke received about a year previous. His wife still survives, at the age of seventy-three years. Our subject remained at home until nineteen years of age, when he went to Columbus and engaged as a type setter on the Ohio Statesman. Before leaving home, he had learned the printer's trade under Andrew Oest, in the Clermont Courier office. After remaining in Columbus one year, Mr. Bryan went to Circleville. but after a year's residence there returned to Columbus, where he married Miss Martha S. Mas terson, a uative of Ireland and a daughter of Prof. John O. Masterson. After his marriage, he went to Circleville, where he operated the Circleville Herald one year. He then returned to Columbus and remained there one year, after which he and John A. Kissinger came to London and took possession of the National Democrat, of which Mr. Bryan soon became sole proprietor, changing the name of the paper to the Madison Democrat, under which title he has since continued its publication. While in Columbus, he and four other journeymen printers established the Daibj Reveille, and in this office the great humorist, Artemus Ward (Charles Brown) was employed for some time. Mr. Bryan withdrew from the Reveille company one year after its organization, and six months before it was discontinued Of his family of eight children, seven survive, viz., Mary L., Ormand M. , Chester E., Charles M. , Mattie T., Marcellus and Addison. Annie O., the next to the youngest, is deceased. Mr. Bryan has been a Democrat ever since he cast his tirst vote. He served as Mayor of the village of London two terms and as County Recorder one term.

L. W. BURNHAM, of Houston & Burnham, hardware merchants, London, was born in Pike Township, Madison County. December 12, 1852. He is a -mi of Henry Burnham. a native of this county and a farmer by occupation. He married Eveline Williams, a native of this county. L. W Burnham is tin- elder of five children, and when a young man accepted the position of Teller of the Trader's Hank of Mechanicsburg, Champaign Co., Ohio. He remained in this position three years, and then came to London to accept a similar one in the Central Bank of that city. After three years he resigned that position, and engaged in his present business with T. J. Houston, under the linn name of Houston & Burnham. Mr. Burnham is a member of the M. E. Chmrch, and Republican politically. He was married, October ."). L875, to Ella M. Houston, a sister of his present partner. She persecutions their people were subjected to in that country, and made their home in Ireland, where they suffered in the siege of Londonderry. James, with his three sons, Thomas, Andrew and Samuel, emigrated to America at an early day, with other Scotch-Irish Covenanters. Andrew settled in Pennsylvania in 1791 or 1792, where he raised a family of children, of whom one son, James, married in Fayette County, Penn., and had four children, one son and three daughters. His wife died, and he was married the second time, to Elizabeth Watson, by whom he had seven children, live girls and two sons, John and Moses. In 1807, he moved to Ross County, Ohio, where he lived nine years. He then purchased land in Fayette County, and, four years later, finding his title defective, he was persuaded to relinquish this land, receiving 300 acres in the wilds of Madison County as an inducement to peaceably give up possession. He located in Madison County in 1820. His son, John W., was born near Uniontown, Fayette Co., Penn., May 9, L800, and. in 1825, married Matilda Hunter, by whom he had three children, of whom one survives - Matilda, wife of Samuel Truitt. Mrs. Byers died in 1831, and, in the fall of 1833, be married Sarah Painter, by whom he had ten children - Mary R., wife of N. P. Gardner; Louisa J., wife of Thomas Price; Missouri, deceased, wife of George Truitt; Joel M., who married Louisa Fitzgerald; James W., whose sketch appears elsewhere; John 0., who married Josephine Rickabaugh; Andrew, who married Ida Bidwell; Mary E. , deceased, and Laura and Kate, at home. Mr. Byers retired from active life nine years before his death and, after six weeks' illness, died, February 2, 1881, his remains being interred in Kirkwood Cemetery. Mrs. Byers' grandparents McGrew emigrated from Virginia to AYestinoreland County, Penn., at a very early day, but the Indians were so hostile that they were obliged to bury their possessions and return to Virginia several times, until finally they resorted to block-houses for safety. He was a surveyor in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. They had seven children, three sons and four daughters. The youngest, Rossanna, was Mrs. Byers' mother. Thomas Painter, Mrs. Byers' grandfather, had three sons and seven daughters. Of these, Joel, her father, was born in 1787, and moved to Pennsylvania from Harper's Ferry, Va., when he was quite small. In 1809, he married Rosanna McGrew, and had four sons and two daughters. Of the latter, Sarah was born in IS 13, and when eleven years of age her mother died. In 1825, her father married Jemima Allen. On March 21. 1826 or L82 7, they started for Cincinnati on a family fiatboat, arriving April 12, L832. They then went to Dayton on a canal boat. Soon after, they returned to Cincinnati, and from there Mrs. Byers went to Jefferson in a stage. Mrs. Byers was married to Mr. Byers November 28. 1833, by Rev. Allen. They lived on a farm, one mile from Lilly Chapel, thirty-eight years, and moved to London in March, 1872. She joined the Presbyterian Church in 1832. While at Brownsville, she saw the first steamboat launched on the Ohio River. It was called the Reindeer, and was built by Robert Fulton, and was sent to Pittsburgh. Mrs. Byers is descended from an old family of Quakers who lived in Virginia many years. The subject of this sketch united with the Presbyterian Church in 1829, being one of the original members in the organization of that church at London. For over fifty-one years, he continued a faithful, consistent member of the same church, with the exception of a few years, when he removed his membership to Jefferson to aid in organizing a church there. As a citizen and business man, the integrity, loyalty and generosity of his spirit were unquestioned. As a husband and father, he was affectionate and self-sacrificing to the last degree. He loved life and often expressed his gratitude to God that He had spared him to live so long, but with great composure and assurance he awaited the invitation to higher The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. G. Paterson at the family residence.

J. W. BYERS, of Boyd & Byers, stock-raisers and dealers, London, was born in Fairfield Township, this county, May 26, 1841. His grandfather, James Byers. was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio at an early day. He first located in Ross County, and subsequently in Fairfield Township, this county. One son, John \V. Byers. was also a native of Pennsylvania, and was twelve years of age when his father came to Ohio. He was a farmer through life, and died February 2, 1881. He married Matilda Hunter, a native of Franklin County, Ohio. Two children were born to this union, one now living. Mr. Byers' second wife was Sarah J. Painter, also a native of the Keystone State. Ten children were given to them, eight living. Mrs. Byers is still living, and resides in London. Our subject was one of a pair of twins, and resided in Fairfield Township until twenty-one years of age. He then engaged in the grocery trade in London, remaining in that business fifteen years. At the expiration of this time he engaged in the cattle business with Robert Boyd (in 1879), and the firm are one of the most extensive in their line of trade in the county. Mr. Byers is a member of the Masonic Lodge and Council and the Presbyterian Church. He is Republican in politics, and one year served as Assessor of Union Township. He was married. January 31, 1871, to Nannie E., daughter of Robert Boyd. They have three living children - R. Boyd, Alice L. and John W. Mrs. Byers is a member of the M. E. Church

S. H. CARTZDAFXFIL London, a prominent grocer, was born in Frederick County. Md.. April 14. 1826. He is a son of Michael Cartzdafner, a native of that State, and there reared. He was a miller by trade, and came to Ohio in 1854. He located at Georgesville, in Franklin County, and in this county a year later. He came to London in I860, and there died in the spring of 1862. Mr. Cartzdafner married Maria Connelly, a native of Montgomery County, Md. They were the parents of ten children, six of whom are living. Mother died in April, 1881, and sleeps beside her husband, in Oak Hill Cemetery, east of London. Our subject was the second child and son of this family, and, when nineteen years of age, went to Virginia, where he learned milling. He worked at his trade six or seven years, in Jefferson County, that State, principally at Harper's Ferry. In L852, he came to Columbus, and soon after to Madison County, being first employed by J. C. Smith in the " Old Chrisman Mill," in Oak Run Township. He was in the Georgesville Mill two years; three years in the Robert's Mill, three miles west of London, and soou after located permanently in London. He became associated in the grocery trade with John Jones, the partnership being dissolved two and a half year later. Since that time Mr. Cartzdafner has been in business alone, and has met with fair success in his mercantile transactions. He became connected with Virginia Lodge, No. 1 (Odd Fellows), of Harper's Ferry, in 1N4U. and since his residence in London ha> been ;< member of Madison Lodge, No. 70, and the Encampment of the same fraternity. His political views are decidedly Democratic, and he has been a member of both the Council and Board of Education of London. He was united in marriage. June 25, 1850, to Mary S. Jones, a native of Pennsylvania, then residing it Harper's Ferry, Va. Eleven chil- dren have been o-iven them, four living - Anna, wife of Will H. Chandler. an enterprising business man of London: Maria, William and Fannie. Mrs Cartzdafner is a member of the M. E. denomination.

J. W. CHANCE, a rising and popular young dentist of this city was born in Clark County, Ohio, August 29, 1848. His ancestry can lie traced back in the following: Jeremiah Chance was an Englishman by birth, and came to America between 1780 and 1740. locating in Maryland, where he lived till his death. One son, John Chance, was born near Baltimore about 1762. He married Martha Watkins. One son of this union, Samuel Chance, was born in Maryland, eighteen miles from Baltimore, in 1784. He was a wagon-maker by trade, and married Mary Smallwood, a native of A'irginia, and daughter of Dean Smallwood. and niece of Brig. Geil. Small wood, of Revolutionary fame. They were the parents of ten children, only three living. Tho father died near Catawba. Clark Co., Ohio, October 21, 1838, and the mother in Catawba March 1, 1870, a^ed eighty-one years. One of their three living children is William Chance, the father of our subject. He was born in Pleasant Township, Clark County. Ohio. July 14, 1815, and is now a resident of Champaign County. He married Henrietta Jones, born in Champaign County, Ohio. February 21, 1827, and daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Wooley) Jones. The latter was the daughter of Stephen Wooley, of Revolutionary fame, who was the son of William Wooley. This latter married Margaret Brown, a grand-daughter of Walford Weber, grandson of King William IV, of Holland. He came to America in 1649, and purchased a goodly portion of Manhattan Island, now the site of New York City. His sister, Aneke Jans, left an estate embracing 192 acres of land in the heart of New York City, and for which the heirs now lay claim. It will thus be seen that William Chance's wife, the mother of our subject, of royal blood, sixth in line from King William IV, of Holland. She

Meen the mother of eight children, five living, and two residing in London, this county, subject and brother, John S., his assistant. The subject > this notice was reared on a farm, obtaining a very fair education. He vas engaged in teaching school in Champaign County for two years, and i- live years in Jefferson and Deer Creek Townships, of this county. About 1870, he commenced the practical study of dentistry, at Columbus, with Dr. J i. G. Warner, of that city, a former resident of London. He remained with him one year and then came to London. He immediately formed a partnership with Dr. Carter, which was dissolved by the hitter's death, in 1878. Dr. Chance then took charge of the entire business, and has steadily increased it until at present he has one of the finest offices in Central Ohio, and a practice large and remunerative. He is an indefatigable worker, and well merits the' success that has followed his every effort. He is connected by membership with the Ohio State Dental Association, the M. E Church, and is a true believer in the principles of the Republican party. Dr. Chance married, November 30, 187'). to Allie.E. Snyder, a native of Madison County, and daughter of John and Drusilla (Ellsworth) Snyder. They have two children - Paul A. and Ethel. Mrs. Chance is also a consistent member of the M. E. denomination.

WILLIAM H. CHANDLER, Si;., a prominent retired merchant. London, was born at Hanover, N. H, April 1(J, 1814. His father, Henry H. i 'handler, was born in Pomfret, Conn. , June 1 1. 1 786. In early life he learned the trade of a wool-carder, and subsequently that of a cabinet-maker. He married Anne Wright, born at Hanover, N. H. May 20. 1790. The former died November 20, 1869, aged eighty-three years, and the latter May 1,

1875. aged eighty-live years. W. H. Chandler was the second child and first son of a family of six children, three yet living, and received only a limited education. When twenty-one years of age, he secured a situation as a clerk in a retail store, and two years later went to Charlestown, now a suburb of Boston, Mass., securing a position as keeper in the McLane Insane Asvlum, which he filled for three years. He then went to East Cambridge, not far distant, and again engaged as clerk. In 1839, he came to Columbus. Ohio, obtaining a situation as clerk in a drug house. He was subsequently employed as keeper in the Ohio Insane Asylum, remaining in that position until 1843. He then came to London, and after clerking for some time, started in the grocery business on West High street, opposite the court house, but shortly after sold out to "Uncle Ben Tinder." During the succeeding year, he was engaged in farming, and May 2, 1844, married Isabella Fellows, born in Hanover, N. H. , Fobruary 5, 1816. Some time after marriage, he went to Washington C. H., Fayette Co., Ohio, and, with Nathan Blodgett, was engaged in mercantile pursuits for three years, under the firm name of Chandler & Blodgett. He then sold his interest to his partner, and upon his return to London formed a partnership with W. W. Fellows, the firm continuing business for seven years. At the expiration of this time. Mr. C. a^ain sold his individual interest in the business. Subsequently, with Jeriah Swetland, he engaged in business at Mt. Sterling, in Pleasant Township, this county. Three years later the stock was sold to Benjamin Leach, and the firm of Swetland & Chandler removed to London, and there continued business until both agreed to retire. The partnership is yet to be dissolved. Mr. Chandler was a merchant for twenty-one years, and gained quite a competence. He is the owner of sixty-eight acres of land in the corporate limits of London, and resides in the northeastern part of the village. He has been a Democrat in politic-. and for two terms served as County Treasurer. He has also held the offices of Councilman and member of the School Board in the village. He is connected by membership with Chandler Lodge, No. 138 (Masonic), and the Presbyterian Church. Mr. and Mrs. Chandler have three children - Anna. William H., Jr., and Harvey F. Mrs. Chandler is a member of the M. E. Church. Will H. Chandler, Jr., the oldest son, was born in London Novemper 4, 1848. He grew to manhood in his native place, receiving a good English editcation. In early life he was a clerk for his father and Jeriah Swetland, remaining with them till they sold out. On March 1, 1873, he purchased the stock and trade of Z. T. Graham, book seller, and has since conducted that business, meeting with fair success. Mr. Chandler is one of London's most enterprising business men. and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He has always been an active Democrat. He was Trustee of Union Township three or four terms, has been Treasurer of London corporation six years, and is a member of the County Democratic Central Committee. Mr. Chandler was married to Annie, daughter of S. H. Uartzdafner, grocer, of London. Of their six children two are Living -- Edward W. and Wright. Mrs. Chandler is a member uf the Presbyterian Church. Harvey F. Chandler, the youngest son of William H, was born in London August 6, L854 Like his brother, he grew up in London, being educated in its public schools. When nineteen years of age, he went to Enfield, N. H., and was there employed by Dodge, Davis & Co., woolen manufacturers. He remained one year, and then returned to London, where he soon after accepted a position with John Kinney, dry goods. He remained in this business about sixteen months, and then came to his present position, with

F. M. CHAPMAN, undertaker, London, was born in Union (now a portion of Paint) Township, this county, February 8, 1836. His father, James Chapman, is a native of Frederick County, Va. , and his occupation in life has been that of a farmer. He came to this county in IS 16, locating on some land in Union Township which he had purchased while at Winchester, Va. He was born July L6, 1801, and is now eighty one years of age, enjoying good health. He married Mary A. Chapman, also a native of " Old Dominion." They are the parents of nine children, three living - our subject, and a brother and sister, residing in Illinois. F. M. Chapman was the third child and lirst son of these parents, and resided on the farm in Paint Township until sixteen years of age. He then came to London, and learned the carpenter's trade with Calvin Newcomb, serving a three years' apprenticeship, and subsequently working for him two years longer. In the fall of 1862, he purchased his present business. Mr. Chapman is at present the pioneer in his line of business, and has met with very fair success. In 1873, he suffered the loss of his entire stock by tire, but immediately erected his present building, at a cost of $1,500. He is connected by membership with the following organizations: Funeral Directors' Association of Columbus; Masonic Lodge and Chapter, Knights of Pythias and American Legion of Honor, of London. He was married, October 15, 1804, to Mrs. Rebecca J. Newcomb, a native of London, and a sister of Clinton D. Rayburn, gro cer. They have one child - Bertie. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman are membere of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN F. CHENOWETH, retired farmer, P. O. London. The parents of our subject were Elijah and Rachel (Foster) Chenoweth, he a native ol Pennsylvania, and she of Virginia. They were married in Virginia, and about 1700 emigrated to Kentucky, and settled in .Mason County: thence, about ^OOT^they came to Ross County, Ohio, and the next year, 1800. they located in Franklin County, on the Big Darby, where his wife died about 1820. He died in 1880. They had five sons and four daughters, all deceased but two - John F. and Elijah. They were among the early pioneers of Franklin County, as they had been prior of Mason County, Ky., where John F.. our subject, was born September 15, 1793. He was a child of about six years when brought to Ohio, where he grew to manhood fully inured to the wildest and roughest of pioneer life, where he says he had many a race and wrestle with the Indians, who were then in plentiful numbers in this vicinity. He was married, March 21, 1811, to Margaret Fergurson. by Rev. Simon Cochran. They settled on his father's place and lived until about 1820, when he located in Madison County, where he purchased 133 acres of land, which is now embraced in the tract of land owned by his son Elijah. He says that at the time he purchased that tract of land, he thought if he could succeed in paying for it, he should feel satisfied: but before that was paid for, he saw another piece he desired, and he bought it. He early engaged in stock-raising, and soon was largely engaged in buying and driving -tod over the mountains to the Eastern markets. In this trade he prospered, and from time to time purchased more land, till finally he owned about 8.000 acres, all in one body, extending from California westward for two and one half miles, constituting him one of the largest land-holders in Madison County; and all this was accomplished through his industry, energy and financial ability. He not only raised from poverty to wealth and affluence, but was also placed by the people into many public offices of trust. He

DENNIS CLARK, London, proprietor London Woolen Milt-. in Fairfield County, Ohio. April 8, 1827. His father, Ralph Clark, was a native of Maryland, and a farmer by oooupation. Wo oame to Ohio in 1813, whoa eighteen years of age, locating in Fairfield County, and re siding there until IS38. He then removed to the " Sandusky Plains." near Upper Sandusky, and ton years later to northern part of Greene County. In ls62, ho oame to London, where ho died February 8, 1872, in his seventy seventh year. He married Man Rose, also a native of Maryland. The) were married in Ohio, and the parents of ten children, four living, Mrs Clark died in January, 1879, aged eighty-three years Our subject is the only one of the family in this oounty. and learned his present trade when seventeen years y^ age, at Springfield, Ohio. Ho completed his trade in Dayton, and m the spring o( isr>0. oame to London. Ho wont into the woolen mill of C. EL Slagle, one mile north of London, on the Somerford pike, and soon after the mill was romod to a man named Fish, Two oor three years later, Mr. Clark rented the mill, and ran it a few years. He thou purchased it. and operated it till January 28, 1864, when it was burned down. Thou, with others, ho formed a stock oompany, and built and opei ated the woolen mill on the sit" o( the present London Flouring Mill. I860 till 1871, it being consumed by fire in the latter year, In i^T'J, ho erected his present mill, and has operated it to the present time with suocess Mr. Clark is a member >'( the Odd Fellows Lodge and Enoampmont. and the Methodist Episoopal Churoh, all of London, Wo was for merry a Republican in politios. but of late years has been an earnest Prohi bitionist. He was united in marriage, Februar) 8, 1852, to Virgini \ daughter of 0. EL Slagel (deoeased) Of their ton ohildren, >i\ are living Wilbur 1\. married Virginia Blizzard, and resides in London; alioe M y, wife of John R. Manning, of London; Gteorge W., Mary F., Albert S. and Nellie MoOlimans, Mrs Clark is also a member of the Moth Episoopal Churoh.

JOB J. CLARK, insurance agent, London, was born in that city Jul/ 15, 1851. He is a son of Judge B. F. C'ark, Cashier in the Madison National Bank, whose sketch appears in this record. Our subject was reared in his native village and educated in its public schools. He embarked in the boot and shoe business, with his brother Quinn, remaining with him till the latter' s death, September 10, 1878. He soon after sold his stock and trade to Leon Minshall, and then engaged in his present business. He had been made an agent of the Security of New York, in 1870, and the Hartford in 1871. To these two he has added the agency of the/^tna. Phoenix, Putnam, Queen of Liverpool, American of Philadelphia. Insurance of North America, Franklin of Columbus, Ohio, and National of Hartford. These companies are among the very best in existence, and Mr. Clark has sue ceeded in issuing many thousand policies throughout Madison County. Mr. Clark is a member of the Masonic Lodge and Chapter- - Enoch Grand Lodge of Perfection, Franklin Council Princes of Jerusalem, Columbus Chapter Rose Croix, being A. A. S. R. Orient of Ohio Valley of Columbus, American Legion of Honor, Knights of Honor, Knights of Pythias, of London, and Mt. Vernon Commandery, No. 1, Knights Templar, of Columbus He is also connected with the Presbyterian Church, and is Democratic in political matters. He was married, November 14, 1872, to Minnie, daughter of L. P. Wildman. Thev have three children - Myrtle, Franklin and Burt.

JOSEPH CORNS, ornamental painter, London, was born at Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England. May 13, JS28. He is a son of Abraham Corns, a native of England, and a gunlocksmith by trade. He came to America in 1853, locating in Lancaster County, Penn. , and there died in December, 1861. He married Sally Robinson, a native of England, who died there of the cholera in 1849. They only had two children - a son and daughter, the latter now deceased. Our subject learned ornamental japanning, on waiters, etc., in England, and has in his possession a piece of such work executed by himself when but eleven years of age. He was twenty five years old when he accompanied his parents to America, and. after a nine years' residence in Lancaster County, Penn. , went to Harmony, Clark Co., Ohio, and from thence to London about the close of the war. He has since been engaged at his trade, and that of house-painting and frescoing In the latter line he was employed in decorating the walls and ceilings of the different houses of worship, and the schoolhouse of London. Mr. Coins is connected by membership with Madison Lodge, No. 70, London Encamp - ment, No. 126, L O. O. F., and Chandler Lodge, No. 138, Masonic. He was married, March 2, 1850, to Anna Bracknell. Six children have been born to them, four living - Annie S., widow of O. C. Smith, deceased. and present wife of D wight Olds, of Springfield; Mary, wife of "Cad" Peterson, a farmer of Union Township, this county; William and Harry.

ADDISON CORNWELL, farmer, P. O. London. This old and respected farmer and pioneer school-teacher was born in Virginia September 19, 1819. He was the son of George and Sarah (Fleming) Cornwell. natives of the Old Dominion, of English, Scotch and Welsh descent, They settled in Union Township in 1840. Our subject was educated in the sub- Bcripton schools and at Washington College. He was married, in 1839, to Tabitha Trussell, and raised a family of eleven children, of whom eight - five boys and three girls - survive. His wife died in 1870. The children are all married and doing well. Mr. Cornwell owns a farm of 137 acres

SlA-i. RICHARD COWLING, deceased, was born in Cornwall, England, July 7. 1 TUT. His parents were Richard and Man- (Parnell) Cowling, who accompanied our subject to this country in the year 1818. They landed at the oitj of Baltimore, but soon went to Chambersburg, Penn. , where Richard, Sr.. died shortly after their removal. Our subject and mother remained here Beveral years, then removed to Pittsburgh, in the same State, and subsequently to Urbana, Ohio. At these places, Mr. Cowling was engaged in the butchering and mercantile pursuits. The mother died iu London, Ohio, in the year 1850. Our subject settled in Madison County in 1883, residing on a faun some eight or nine miles distant Erom London In 1840, he removed to London, and, on the 1st day of May, L849, was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of Lemuel and Ann (Holmes) Brush, and Bister to Judge Benry Brush, cf Chilli oothe, who subsequently settled in Madison County. No children were born to this anion. Mr. Cowling was engaged in active business in Madison County until just prior to the la te war. when ho retired, having dealt largely and principally, during this period, in stock, and, by natural shrewdness and close application to business, he amassed a large fortune. He gave liberally of his wealth to eral public enterprises, such as building of the Presbyterian Church, to which he subsequently donated $5,000 by will. He also supplied the pie with a town clock at his own expense. He donated the land for Oak Hill Cemetery, ami built a beautiful soldiers' monument therein. Ho built

Madison, formerly Cowling House, and erected some twenty or more tenant houses in London. In Ids will, among the public bequests are the donation of the old homestead at the north end of Main street, together with about four and a half acres of Land, to the town of London as a public park. Between sixty and eighty acres adjoining Oak Hill Cemetery apart as an extension of the grounds for perpetual use. For years Mr. Cowling was a large shareholder and Director in the old Franklin Bank of Columbus; as one of the original starters of the first bank in London, which afterward became the First National Bank Although peculiar and eccentric, he had many personal friends, and whom he never forsook. He did much good with his money, and was closely identified with the growth of London. The title of Major was simply one given him by his o;. I quaintanoes and friends. Maj. Cowling was not identified With any church. His death occurred October 3, 1873, and that o\' Mrs. Cowling March 11, L873.

FRANK T. CREAMER, one of the youngest and most enterprising grocers t)( London, was born at Columbus. Franklin Co., Ohio. October 11, 1855. His father, 'Thomas Creamer, was born in Ireland, and came to rioa in 1848, Locating in .Massachusetts, and. five years later, at Columbus, where he remained until L866. He then settled in London, where he has since remained, and has been engaged in mercantile pursuits. He married Lorimla. daughter of James Walcott, one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of Franklin County. He wa8 a native of Virginia; married Tolly Legg, a daughter nf Mason, of Kentucky, and located in Frank lin County before Columbus was settled. He died about L877. Mr. and Mrs Creamer are both living, and are the parents of seven children, six living. Our subject was reared in his native county, and educated in the public schools of Columbus and London. In early life he was a clerk in Howard's grocery at Columbus, and later was employed as I

He ha had far bettei in business thai i. and enjoys probably the l,< -t retail trade in the city. Hi- employee aumber eight, and two wagons are constantly deli verity ad fruit, tohif fche most complete libraries; of standardworks in the city. If'- married, 79, to Katy. daughter of Levi E. Wilson, of Columbus, Ohio. Mi ,i<-r died December 29 of the same < i conr;t member of the [Jniversalist Church.

1807 settled on the farm where William no* lives. The father was a prominent farmer through life, and ;*t his death i »f land. Oux subject I ed his life to farming. He now own-, land, afl of which he has made by his own industry and economy. He wat mar- December L3, 1836, to Susan Carr, a native of Ohio a A chael Carr. Mr i born October L3, 1816, and by her Mr. Cryder has had eleven children, eight surviving, nameh M Danii 0 Creamer; Albert, Elizabeth, James B., Ellen E., William and Bertha Mrs. Cryder is a member of the Methodist copal Church. Mr. Cryder i- a Republican. He is a natural mediantime carried on wagon-making in rnship, hi when ed the m< lanufactory in the aection with his Wroth';]'-, in the formation of a firm engaged in buying and selling live stock. T, end Mr. Dalbey'e attention for I and in 1876 he turned his he married Matilda B., a daughter of William Fitzgerald, an early settler of this county. Four children have, blest this union, viz.. J. Jo William. Hannah May and Charles Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Dalbey are members of the Meth< jcopal Church, in which he has been Class-

Leader for a number of years. His father was a preacher from the age of eTl to the age of eighty-four years. HON. JAMES A. DUN, I ad stock-raiser, P. 0. London, was stock for six years. 1m L352, be went to California, .uul Eor six years wan engaged in mining. In L858, he moved to Missouri and engaged in mer oantile pursuits and in dealing in town lots, being a partner of William James, with whom be Laid out the town of St. James in L862. In the lattei year be went to Nevada, and, until L868, speculated in mining stook, after which be worked a silver mine Eor one year. In l^ii1.'. be again wont to San Franoisco and acted Eor R. G. Dun & Co.'s mercantile agenoy. Ho afterward engaged in the iron mint's of Missouri until L876, and in the silver mines of Colorado until L881, when he returned to Ohio and purchased the Judge Thomas farm of 200 aores, Eour miles west of London in Missouri during the war, was a member of the First Nevada Legislature in isr>l lh> has experienced all the vicissitudes of a miner's life, and has undergone all the hardships of Western travel in the early days - the mining craze. He was married, January 28, L871, to (.'destine Bou ner. a daughter of Matthew Bonner, of Clark County.

J. \Y. DIXON, an enterprising and well known citizen of London, member of the firm of J. W. Dixon & Co., dealers in dry goods, notions, etc., was hern in Loudoun County. Va., June '1. l^ld. He is a son of W. H. Dixon, a native of and now residing in Maryland. He has been engage in the milling business through life, and now, at the age of sixty-four years, has retired from active business on account o\' Eeeble health. He married Elizabeth Feller, a native of Loudoun County, Ya.. and yet living, at the age of si\t\ three years. Our subjeot is the oldest of nine children, Beve liviue;. and obtained a ^<od common school education in his native State He subsequently attended Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg, and in 186$ embarked in the mercantile trade at Lime Kiln, Md.. in company with a Mr. Grove, and two years later the firm divided stock. Mr. Dixon going t< Baltimore. From L868 to 1^71. ho traveled Eor a wholesale house, and ii September of the latter year be married Mrs. M. M Bradfield, and sooi after engaged again in the mercantile trade in Loudoun County, Va. He remained then' two years, and. after closing out his business, went to Den of himself and wife, returned Bast, suffering the loss of his wife in Virgin ia. March '_!<>, |S;n. He soon after went to Philadelphia, and was employee. in the well-known bouse of John Wanamaker for a period ^f six sear- He came to London in September, L877, and clerked Eor Dakin & Cowling until June, L878, when be was united in marriage to Miss E. 1 Morgan, born near Harrisburg, Ohio, and daughter of Mrs. Martha Morgan, whos famih i< well known throughout Madison County, and closely related to th Posters, Chenoweths, Pancakes, Johnsons and others. Pbe November fol Lowing this union. Mr. Dixon engaged in his present business, in the Swet land A:. Dixon Bl >ok, on the corner of d ain and High streets. In L881, bo ereoted his present hand- line block, and removed his stock there in F< ary, L882, Dbe building is of brick, three -tones high, with a stone Eronl It is 1 1 ^ k '_' _' feet in size, with sixteen Eool ceilings, and ereoted ai a cost oi about $12,000. Mr. Dixon oarries r large stook of Ar\ goods, notions and carpets, and. although in business here but a short time, be has built up a very fine trade employing five clerks, and with sales averaging $30,000 pet annum. Mr. Dix the d isonic fraternity, Lmerioan Le notions, etc., was born in Philadelphia Penn., February II. L842. He ie <»!' .John Duddy, a native of [reland, and a farmer by occupation. He came to Ohio who] I;"1 five Cincinnati, and subsequently in Logan County, Ohio, where In* died

Duddj enjoysagood, steady trade. Mr. Dud Mi onic fraternity and the Knights of Honor. H<- it Democratic in poli tics, but ba* never been an aspiranl for office. He was married, in L867, to Sallie Betl . a native of this county. On phael later, he began renting, and finall} he bought forty-five where he dow lives II< tried, in 1859, toCaroline Loofboura daughter of Thomaf and -Sarah (Glaize) Loofbourrow, native county, of Grerman descent. Mrs. Duncan j- a member of the Lj terian Church. He is a Democrat in politics, and ha been a School Ditown hip fourteei WILSON DUNGAN, an old and honored citizen of London orn in Pennsylvania August L6, 1807. His father, Jesse Dungan, was ed on a farm about nine milee from Philadelphia, and tied the trade cutter at the latter city. If- married Jane

Wilson, proprietress of the Red Horse Tavern, Philadelphia. Thej came to Madison County in September, L809, locating on 320 acres of land in /'- Township, six miles south of London. He had purchased this land Philadelphia at $13 pei acre. I!" resided there during life, arid died August 16, 1823. Of their eight children, five are living, our subject the ! of the latter. Mrs. Dun equently married Joseph Laj, was never out of dried venison. Mr. Dungan has been a faithful and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for over half a century. He was formerly a Whi<^. but of late years has been a Republican. He once served as Marshal of the village. Mr. Dungan was married, in S tember, 1831, to Sarah Groves, a native of this county, and a daughter of David Groves. They had six children born to them, three living - Amanda, wife of William Kayburn. of Bloomington, McLean Co., 111.; David M., a leading undertaker of Monmouth. Warren Co., 111., for the past twenty-six years; and Mary E., wife of John Duddy, a prominent dry goods merchant of London. Mrs. Dungan departed this lib* in the winter of 1S72-73. Our subject resides in London, with his daughter and her husband.

JOHN DUNGAN, one of the oldest and most respected merchants a' London, was born on Bradford Creek, in Range Township. August 3, 1814. He was a son of Jesse Dungan, a native of Pennsylvania, who removed his family to Madison County, Ohio, in September, 1809. He was a farmer through life, ami died on the old homestead, in Range Township. August L6, 1823. He married -I a mi Wilson at Philadelphia, Penn., who bore him eight children. Five of these children are now living. Mrs. Dungan sub sequently married Joseph Pancake, a native of Virginia, but residing here .Mr. Pancake died September L5, L853, and the mother of our subject July 30. L863. John Dungan remained on the old homestead till sixteen years of age. His educational facilities were those of pioneer days, and rather limited. At sixeen years of age, he went to Midway and there learned the tinner's trade. He remained there a few years, and, on May 1, L834, married Susan Blue, a native of Ross County, Ohio. On June 5, L835, he eame to London and opened a shop for the manufacture of tinware. He subsequently commenced dealing in stoves, and afterward general hardware. His trade increased slowly but Bteadily, and for thirty-one years he enjoyed a large and remunerative trade. He had commenced life poor, his only capital being two willing hands, good health and a Large stock of tireless energy. At the expiration of his thirty-one years of mercantile life, he had accumulated means sufficient for old age and its attending wants, and sold out to his son, James M. Dungan, and P. C. Cowling, with the intention of retiring from the business cares of life. A desire to assist his other son-, induced him to engage in the furniture trade. He sold out to one of them two years later, and subsequently engaged in his present, business. In this latter enterprise he has also met with fair success. Mr. Dungan has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for fifty years - half a century - and is at present a Trustee in that body. K % is amemberof the Masonic fraternity and the Republican party. lie served two years as member of the Village Council. Ten children have beep born to himself and wife living Elmira, wife of Stephen Watson, President of the Madison Na tional Bank of London; -lames ME., engaged in mercantile pursuits at Lima, Ohio-, Martin W ". . dealer in Furniture, London; Elizabeth; LeRoj with his father in business; and Eliza, wife of Franklin X. Bebee, of Co lumbus. Mr. Dungan's oldest Bon and child, Jesse \V.. enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirteenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain June 27, 1863. One leg was subsequently amputated, from the effeotsof which he died on the Eol lowing anniversary of the nation's independence. Mrs. Dungan is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal denomination. John Duugan has been a Lifelong resilient of Madison County, and an exemplary Christian in all his acts, both in mercantile aud social life. His integritj and sincerity in all business matters 1ms never been questioned, and liis influence has over been asserted for the right. He has always taken an active interest in the welfare of this city, and is an enterprising citizen.

MARTIN \V. DTJNGAN, London, the oldesl dealer in furniture, was born in that city December 25, 1843. He is a son of John Dungan, whose sketch can lie found elsewhere in this volume. His mother's maiden name was Susan nine. Our subject was reared in London, and has always resid ed there. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the Fortieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer [nfantry, Col. Crainor,of Darke County, commanding, and served two years. He then re enlisted in (he One Hundred and Tenth Regiment, serving a like term, and was honorably discharged in June, 1865. During this latter period of service, he participated in the battle of the Wilderness; witnessed Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House, ami came very near Hoeine; Johnston's surrender He returned home and assisted his father in the hardware trade until 1874, when he purchased the Furniture stuck and trade of his two brothers, Le Roy and Jehial (the latter now deceased), and was a partner of his father until L878, since which time the (inn has been Dungan & Watson, the latter member being Algiers Watson, Cashier of the

London Exchange Bank, The linn have met with very good success. Mr. Dungan is a member of the Masonic Lodge, Chapter and Council of London, ami Mt. Vernon Commandery, No. I. Knights Templar, of Columbus. He is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and its Board of Stewards, and connected with the American Legion of Honor. Mr. Dun gan was married, Augusl 12, lStiT, to Mary, daughter of George W. Lohr. Of their live children, four are living Minnie. Emmett, Bessie and Prazia. M Dungan is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal denomination. Mr Dungan is Republican in politics, and at presenl oneof the Trustei Union Tow oship.

A. DUNKIN, farmer, and stock raiser, residence, London, was born in the village of London, Novembers. L830. His father. David Dunkin, was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Madison County, Ohio, about iSL'D He located in London and engaged in the dr} goods business. He was a pioneer merchant of the then small village, and his mercantile operations were verv profitable. In after years, he was engaged in loaning money He was a Whig in politics, and later a Republican, and for many years was Coroner of the county. David Dunkin married Nanc\ Turner, a native of London. and daughter of William Turner, They were the parents of throe children. Our subjecl the only survivor. Mrs. Dunkin departed this life in 1835, and Mr. Dunkin afterward married Jeanette E. ChenOweth, a native of Bourbon County, K \ . Three children were born to this onion, only one living - Mrs. R. B. Cowling. Mr. Dunkin died in July, I StVJ. Our subject was reared in London, and has resided there during life, the greater a farm in Range Township of 1,500 acres, and one of 237 acres in Den ('red. Township. For eight or nine years he was proprietor and landlord of the Madison House. London. He is Republican in politics, and once d as a member of the Village Council, lie was married, July 11, IMS. to Sarah, daughter of Simon Kenton, the lattej of whom was a nephew of old Simon Kenton, the Kentucky pioneer hunter and trapper. Thirchildren have been bom to Mr. ami Mrs. Dunkin, nine living S. Kenton; Nannie, wife of B. H. Lewis, an attorney at law of London; William B., proprietor Madison House, London; Fannie, wife of S. 1). Kumler, »f

London; McCloud, David Tod. Clara May, Nellie and Sarah. Mrs. Dun kin's father, Simon Kenton, was one of the largest stock-dealers in Madison l !< iinty, his principal operations extending from 1834 to 1844,. He was a ., ive ol Kentucky. Mrs. Dun kin was born in 1832.

JAMES DWYER, merchant. London, was born in the town of Cahir, County Tipperary, Ireland, October 25, L834. His parents were William and Johanna (Roach) Dwyer, living in Ireland till their death. The fordied in 1870, and the In Iter when our subject was hut ten years old.

rew up in Ireland, and. when but sixteen years of age, came to America. He had previously worked some ;ti tailoring, and located in Philadelphia, where he remained two years and finished his trade. He then came to Xenia, Ohio, and remained there till 1856, when he located in Springfield, Claris County. He was working at his trade there for abc ut three years, and then lived in Vienna, same county, cne year. After six mouths' residence again in Springfield, in April, 1800, he came to London. He immediately opened a shop. and. by perseverance and energy, succeeded in building up a fine trade, and gradually worked himself into general merchandising He erected a portion of his present building in INTO, and finished it in 1879. It is a two story brick, containing four rooms, with sizes as follows: 22x80, 17x65, 16x45 and L6x25. The building was erected at si of $10,000 to $12,000, and the larger portion of it is filled with a general stock, embracing dry goods, boots, shoes and clothing. Mr. Dwyer enjoys a very good trade, and has been fairly successful during his business life. He is one of the more prominent members of the Catholic Church of London, and is Democratic in state and national politics, but in local affairs voting for the man who will best subserve the interests of the people. He was married, while residing at Xenia. December 80. IS, "Hi, by the Rev. Thomas Blake, to Margaret Anderson, also a native of Ireland. Of their ten children, eight are living - Johanna, wife of Thomas Maddigan. an assistant in the Central Ohio Insane Asylum at Columbus: Will, traveling salesman with R. W. Linen, of Columbus; John. Edmund. Walter, Joseph, Emmet and Robert. Mary and Edward are deceased. Mrs. Dwyer and family are also members of the Catholic Church.

many. He obtained employment with John Stahl, and remained with him two or three years, and in 1869 went to Midway. Range Township, v, here he opened a shop. I l'e returned to London in 1871, ami in L873 established his present business. lie first commenced dealing in boots and

Benjamin Thomas

R. H. EDWARDS, proprietor Empire Livery, and a prominent grain dealer of London and Central Ohio, was born in Fayette County. Ohio. January 16. 1844. He is a son of James P. Edwards, a native of Pennsylvania, and a member of the Society of Friends. He came to Ohio about fifty years ago, locating in Jeffersonville, where he was a pioneer merchant. He subsequently removed to Charleston, Clark County, where he died in October, 1872. He married Susan, daughter of Col. Robert Hill, of Virginia, and a pioneer of Clark County. Ohio. Mrs. Edwards passed away from earth, in December. 1879. Our subject is the oldest of four children, ihree living, and two residents of Madison County. He was mostly reared in Charleston, Clark County, and when young assisted his father in the mercantile trade. He subsequently traveled for Erhart & Beeson, wholesale grocers of Columbus, remaining with them six years In 1862, he enlisted m Company C. One Hundred and Tenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but officiated as Private Secretary to Gen. Milroy. during his two years' services. After leaving the army, he traveled some, and finally located at Detroit, where he became a member of the firm L. W. Linker & Co., wholesale grocers and tea dealers. He was engaged in this business eight or nine years, and in 1879 came back to Ohio, locating in London. In April. L880, Mr. Edwards purchased the Empire Livery Stable, where he has met with good success. He first commenced buying grain in L878, and has I >urchased and shipped for Eastern parties since. He buys all over Cen ual and Southern Ohio, his yearly trade averaging 1.000 to 1,200 cars. Mr. was one of the organizers, and is now a Director and Secretary of the London Driving Park Association. He is Unitarian in religious belief md Republican in politics. He was married January 10, 1869, to Fannie . Thomas, of Delaware County, Penn. Mrs. Edwards died of consump- 'ion in October, 1876, while in attendance at the Centennial Exhibition, at Philadelphia. He was again married, October 2, 1878. to Lydia M. Leach, a native of Fayette County. Ohio, a sister of Mrs. Jeremiah Rea. of London, and daughter of Benjamin Leach, a pioneer of Fayette County. Ohio. They have a son and daughter - Pierrepont and Wanah.

'WILLIAM A. EVANS, farmer, P. O. London, was born in Clark County, Ohio, April 25, 1846. He is the son of William B. and Sarah (Bowen) Evans, the former a native of Virginia, of Welsh descent, and the latter a native of New York, of German and English descent. His father died when our subject was eighteen years old. and the burden of supporting the family devolved largely on him. He took charge of the farm and operated it successfully. He is a natural machinist, and can set up or use almost any piece of machinery. He was married, in 1869, to Victoria P. Orcutt, born in Greene County. January 11, 1848, and a daughter Henry < >rcutt. They have had two children, viz.: P. B., born November 3, 1870, and Carrie E., born May 21, L873. Mr. Evans is a Republican, and is now serving his third term as Trustee. He has served as a delegate to the Ohio State Convention. He has been an Odd Fellow twelve years.

WILLIAM FARRAR. London, Cashier of the Central Bank, was born at the mouth of Oak Run, in what is now Oak Run Township, this county November 26, 1882. His father. Jonathan Farrar, was born in Yorkshire, England, in August, 1790. He was there reared, and in April. 1820, came merica. locating near Lawronceburg, Ind., where he remained three years. He then went to Cincinnati, and two years later to Columbus. Two years subsequently, he located on what is no>v the "Gwynne land." in both Pleasant and Oak Run Townships. He resided there two and a half or three years, and then on Deer Creek, a short distance away. He bought a large amount of land, having at one time 1,300 or 1,400 acres in different farms throughout the county. He remained in Oak Run Township several years, and after a short residence at Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio, located at London, where he died July 22, 1874, aged eighty- four years. He married Mary Kilby, a native of England, and daughter of Henry Kilby, one of the better class of farmers of Great Britain. They had born to them eleven children - six now living, and four residents of Madison County. Mrs Farrar died about 1852. aged fifty-nine years. Jonathan Farrar was a great reader, and well read in Bible history. In early and middle life, he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but at the time of his death, of the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was an honest, industrious man, fond of intelligent company, and when he hired a man to labor for him, the contract was made on the basis that the employe was to use no profane language while working for his employer. Mrs. Farrar was a very pious woman, and both were highly honored and respected. On one occasion (after his wife's death), Mr. Farrar, in company with Benjamin Browning and Charles Phellis, made a trip to England, for the Madison County Importing Company, and returned with a herd of fine cattle. At the time of his death, he was very comfortably fixed, financially and otherwise. William Farrar was reared on the home farm, receiving a common school education. In early life, he went to Dayton, Wis., and for a year was engaged' in shipping grain and flour to Chicago. He then returned to Madison County, and on January 1, 1859, he, in company with his brother John, purchased the business now owned by Jones Bros., and soon after the property. He also bought wool, and was engaged there until January 1 , 1876, when he, in company with his brother John, Robert Rea and others, organized the Central Bank, and was made Cashier, which position he still holds. He continued the wool business two years, and is now engaged in the grain trade with Thomas Wood, under the firm name of Farrar & Wood. The firm own the large elevator on the Pan-Handle Railroad, and have an office on Center street. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for the past eight or nine years has been a Trustee in that, body. He is a strong iiopublican, and has served as Trustee of Union Township, member of Council and Clerk of the Village. Mr. Farrar was married. February 8, 18(H). to Harriet S. Thomas, a native of Genese-' County, N. Y. They have five children - Ida, Jessie, Colbttrn, Wade and Morton. Mrs. Farrar and the three eldest children are also members of the Methodist Episcopal denomination.

FRANK FATH, London, retail dealer in wines, liquors and cigars. was born in Bavaria. Germany, August 2, 1845. He is a son of Jacob Fath, who came to America in 1851. He was a miller by trade, and located at Miamisburg, in Montgomery County, Ohio, ten miles from Dayton where he died in 1875. He married Phebe Mayer, also a native of Bavaria, and who bore him eight children, four now living. Mrs. Fath resides ir. Dayton, and is sixty four years of age. Our subject was the second child of this union, and was six years old when he accompanied his parents to America. In early life, he was in the butcher business, and subsequently learned the printer's trade. He came to London in the spring of 1875, and worked at his trade the greater part of the time for the succeeding five years. He then engaged in bis present business. In March, 1882, he refurnished his place of business, al ;i cost of over $3,000. His rooms are

E. R. FLORENCE. ex-Treasurer of Madison County, London, was born in Paint Township September 7,1837. His father, Robinson Florence, is a native of Pickaway County, Ohio, and came to Madison County about 1831 or L832. He located in Paint Township, where he still resides, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He married Elizabeth Williams, a native of this county. This union has been blessed with ten children, seven of whom are living. Our subject is a second child and son, and obtained a very thorough English education at a private school. He was engaged in farming and stock-raising on the old home farm until January, 1873, when he was elected Sheriff of Madison County, on tho Democratic ticket. He served four years in this position, and during that period was further honored by being nominated and elected to the position of Treasurer of Madison County. He took possession of the latter office in September, 1S7S. and was subsequently re-elected in 1879. His second term expired 1882. Mi*. Florence was an able and efficient public official and well esteemed by all. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the Presby terian Church, and has ever been Democratic in political matters. He was united in marriage in the spring of 1879, to Mary E. Cover, a native of Madison County. They have no children. Mrs. Florence is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

A. W. GARDNER, of Gardner & Lohr, the popular clothing mer chants of London, was born in Adams County, Penn., November 17, 1846. His father, Daniel Gardner, was also a native of the Keystone State and a lime burner by occupation. He died in 1863, aged fifty-two years. Mr. Gard ner marrie.l Harriet Arnold, a native of Pennsylvania, who became the mother of four children, one daughter and three sons, the former now deceased Mrs. Gardner is living in her native State, at the good age of sixty-eight years. One son. J. M. Gardner, formerly of Gardner & Miles, resided in" London from 1870 to 1877. Our subject's paternal grandfather was Jacob Gardner, and the maternal one Dr. Arnold. He was reared in old Pennsylvania, receiving a good common-school education, and subsequently attending a college for two years. He taught school for six months, subsequently cultivating tobacco for one year. He was then employed as a clerk live or six years, and in the spring of 1870 came to London, securing like employment from Gardner & Miles, with whom here mained two years. Then, in connection with William Ronemus, he pur chased the stock and trade of his employer, and the firm enjoyed a good trade for six years, when Mr. Gardner purchased the half- interest of Mr Ronemus. and subsequently sold a third interest to William F. Lohr, the new firm being the present one of Gardner & Lohr. They have met with fine success and enjoy a rapidly increasing trade. A merchant tailoring department is connected with the house, with Charles C. Corey as cutter, and employs from twelve to fifteen hands. Mr. Gardner is a charter member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge of London, and connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Republican party. He was united in m arri a ge, October 10, L872, to Florence, daughter of George YV. Lohr, a pioneer citizen of London. They have three children - Frank W. and Howard L., twins, and George D. Mrs. Gardner is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

F. C. G1LLETT, dealer in coal, London, was born in Clark County, Ohio, July 17. L852. His father. Dr. J. H. Gillett, is a native of Medford,

Mass., and a physician by profession. He came to Ohio about 1840, and located at Springfield, Clark County, where he was engaged in attending a large and lucrative practice until his death. He was one of the oldest and most prominent physicians of Clark County, and died at Springfield October 16, 1881. He married Leonora Vickery, a native of one of the Southern States. They were the parents of four children, all living, and residents of Clark County except our subject. Mrs. Gillett is still living and resides in Clark County. Our subject was the youngest child, and was sent to Wittenberg College, Springfield, where he was in attendance only a short time. He left school to accept employment as clerk in a bookstore, and was engaged in that capacity four or five years. He then purchased a like business at Tiffin, Ohio, whore he was in business three or four years. In 1880, he came to London and started a tobacco store. He then established his present business, in which he has an excellent trade and is meeting with increased success. Mr. Gillett is Republican in politics. He was married, October 16, 1877, to Hattie, daughter of Washington Wilson, a retired farmer of Springfield. Mrs. Gillett is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN GILLILAND, a well-known citizen of Madison County, and a merchant of London, was born in what is now Fairfield Township, July 25, 1812. His father, Andrew Gilliland, was a native of Virginia, and came to Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1807 or 1808. He removed to Logan County, but subsequently back to Pickaway County, where be died in August, 1832. He was a son of Samuel Gilliland and Elizabeth Smith. He married Mary, daughter of John Williams, and a native of Maryland. Of their nine children, six are living - three daughters and three sons. Our subject was the second child of this family, and was reared in Pickaway County. He has been engaged in farming nearly all his life, and resided in Fairfield Township, where he now owns sixty-five acres of land. In March, 1874, became to London, entering into the boot and shoe trade. He has gradually drifted into general merchandise, and his success has been fair. He was formerly a Democrat, but is now Republican in politics. He was married November 3, 1836, to Palmyra, daughter of Shubal and Esther Crippen Waldo, natives of the Eastern States. Of their ten children, six survive - all daughters. Mrs. Gilliland is a member of the Christian Church.

E. J. GOULD, of E. J. Gould & Co.. proprietors of planing mill and lumber yard, London, was born in Essex County, N. J., January 6. 1828. He is a son of J. N. Gould, also a native of New Jersey, and came to Ohio in 1841. He located in Pleasant Township, this county, and resided there for ten years. He was a Methodist Episcopal minister, hut also carried on a farm, with the aid of his sons. He sold the farm about 1851, and removed to London, where he re?ided till his death, about twenty years ago. He married Elizabeth Reeve, a native of New Jersey. There weir born to them five sons - three living. Mrs. Gould died about 1S7(.>. Our subject is the only son in this county (other two residing in Newark, N. J.), and was reared to manhood in Pleasant Township. He was a farmer in early life, but accompanied bis father when the latter removed to London. Mr. Gould then engaged in the lumber business,- in company with his brother William. They were also carpentors and builders, and remained together two or three years. Mr. Gould was in Oregon four years, building sawmills, but still carried on his business in London. In the spring of 1875, Gerald Fitsgibbons became associated in business with Mr. Gould, and the firm of E. J. Gould & Co. cany <>n the most extensive business in their line of trade in Madison County. Mr. Gould is a conservative Democrat, and while a resident of Oregon represented Coose and Curry Counties in the State Legislature. He has had fair success in his business operations. Mr. Gould was married October 5, 1864, to Anna G. Kollogg, a native of Georgia, and daughter of the Rev. Ezra Kellogg, D. D., an Episcopal minister Seven children have been born to them, six living - Theodore, Florence, Anna, Stephen, Donald and Cecil. Mrs. Gould is a member of Trinity Episcopal Church of London, and Mr. Gould is a regular attendant on its services.

THOMAS GRAGG, farmer, P. O. London, was born in this township February 2, 1823. He is a son of Reuben and Phobe (Harpolo) Gragg, natives of Virginia, of Dutch descent, who came to Ohio in 1810, and, after one year's residence in Chillicotho, settled in Union Township, where the father died in 1828. His wife still survives, at the age of eighty-six years Our subject was the second child of a family of six children. His father died when he was a child, preventing him from obtaining more than a lim ited education. He early began the work of a farmer, and has since followed that avocation, now owning 125 acres of land. He commenced work ing by the month at the age of fourteen years, soon after rented a place, and finally purchased a small farm. He was married, in 1851, to Hannah E. Wagoner, a native of Paint Township, and a daughter of James Wagoner They havo seven children - Stephen D., Mary Elizabeth, Josephine M , Rhoda M., Emma, Grant W. and Lucy Lucinda. Mr. and Mrs. Gragg, and the four eldest children, are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he has been connected twenty five years. He is a Re publican in politics.

JOHN M. GRAHAM, farmer, P. O. London, was born in Pleasant Township July 19, 1836, and is a son of John and Lydia (Alkire) Graham, the former a native of Kentucky, of Irish descent, and the latter a native of Virginia, of German descent. Our subject attended school at London, and remained on the farm until seventeen years of age, when his father moved to London and opened a store, and John became a clerk, in which capacity he continued five years. He was married, in 1859, to Gertrude, a daughter of John Smith, and by her he had seven children - John K, Anna S. , A. L., Lydia J., Gertrude. Milton and James S. Mr. and Mrs. Graham are members of the Christian Church. He is a Republican, and owns a well improved and highly cultivated farm.

CHARLES GULCHER, baker and confectioner, London, was born in Rhine Bavaria, Germany, November 30, 1837; his father was Charles Gulcher, a native and farmer of Germany; he married Mary Weber, also o: Germany. The former died about 1875 or 1876. The latter is still living in Germany, and is about sixty-five years of age. Thoy have four living children, three in America. Our subject is the only one of the family in Madison County; he learned the baker's trade in the old country, and in July, 1855, came to America, locating in New York City. He there learned the confectioner's trade, and then came to Ohio; he worked at Waynesville, Warren County, two years, and then came to London. He was employed by his uncle, Peter Weber, for some time, and then returned to Waynes ville. He came back to London again in April, 1861, and was once more employed by his uncle. About 1867, he commencod business for himself, and has succeeded very well; he has a nice restaurant in connection, and enjoys a fine trade. Mr. Weber visited the Paris Exposition in 1878, and Centennial exhibition in 1876; he was Chief of the London Fire Depart- ment for five y ears, and with Philip Speasmaker purchased its first engine (one worked by hand), from Springfield, Ohio. Mr. Gulcher is a member of Madison Lodge and Hiawatha Encampment (I. O. O. F.); Presbyterian in religious belief, and a " Jackson Democrat " in politics. He was married January 16, 1859, to Miss R. K. Giegley, a native of Baden, Germany. Of their eight children six are living, three daughters and three sons - Mollie, wife of Joseph Rea, a farmer of Oak Run Township; Barbara, William, Harry, Edward and Matilda. Mrs. Gulcher is also a believer in the religion taught by the Presbyterian denomination.