Preble County, Ohio - Biographical sketches, 1915 (part 12 of 13)

George W. Hardin

Among the highly respected citizens of Washington township, Preble county, Ohio, during his time, and among the most successful farmers of that township was the late George W. Hardin. Although not a native of Preble county, Mr. Hardin spent most of his life here, where he lived a highminded and honorable life, devoted primarily to the interests of his family, but at no time unmindful of his duties to his neighbors and fellow citizens.

The late George W. Hardin was born in Butler county, Ohio, January 31, 1866, the son of J. G. and Mary (Hadley) Hardin, and died at his home, three and one-half miles southwest of Eaton, this county, on March 6, 191 5* and is buried in the Eaton cemetery. J. G. Hardin was born in Butler county, Ohio, January 14, 1842, and died May 27, 1894, in Butler county. He was the son of James and Susan (Withrow) Hardin. J. G. Hardin's wife was a daughter of Elias and Lucinda (Carter) Hadley, and was born in Hend- ricks county, Indiana, September 16, 1844. She is now a resident of Richmond, Indiana, and was the mother of four children: Clara, the wife of Jerre Truster, who is a resident of Butler county, Ohio; the late George W., the immediate subject of this review; Lucinda, the wife of R. T. Finlay, who lives in Butler county, Ohio, and Lee, who is unmarried.

George W. Hardin was reared on a farm in Butler county, Ohk£ and received his education in the common schools of that county. He remained at home until he was twenty-five years of age, assisting his father with the farm work, and in this way learned all the rudiments of successful farming, which calling he chose as his life work.

Mr. Hardin was married on December 14, 1892, to Catherine D. Conarroe, the daughter of Robert and Margaret (Williams) Conarroe. Her father was born in Butler county, Ohio, near Judsonburg, in 1838, and came to this county, locating at Camden, where he married. He later located in Cambridge City, Indiana, where he remained for two years, after which he returned to Camden, remaining in the latter place several years, at the end of which time he went west to Missouri, returning from that state about 1904, and died on September 12, 1912. His widow is still living in Washington township, this county. Robert Conarroe was one of the finest mechanics of his day, and it is said that he could make anything out of wood or iron. He had in his possession some of the best tools known in his day and was an adept in the use of them. He and his wife were the parents of three children: Anna, the wife of Walter Summers, now living in Missouri; William E., a mechanic living in Washington township in this county, and Mrs. Hardin, the widow of the subject of this memorial tribute.

The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Hardin, Robert and Elizabeth (Tracy) Williams, were both natives of Maryland, who came to Ohio in an early day and located in Camden, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Her paternal grandparents were Caleb and Anna (Carter) Conarroe, both of whom died in Camden, Ohio. Mrs. Hardin was educated in the common schools of Bellville, Illinois, finishing in the high school of that place, and for some time was engaged in teaching.

To George W. and Catherine D. (Conarroe) Hardin one child was born, Clyde L., who was born on September 2, 1894. He was graduated from the Eaton high school with the class of 1913, being president of the class, and lives at home with his mother on the home farm in Washington township.

Mr. Hardin was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Eaton, and was a member of the official board of the local congregation.

Mrs. Hardin also is an earnest member of the church and takes an active part in the work of the Ladies' Aid Society of the church. Mr. Hardin was an ardent Republican and ever took an active interest in public affairs in this county. He served five years as superintendent of the Preble county children's home, and Mrs. Hardin, during this same period, was matron of the home.

Henry Sanders

Those citizens of German birth who served in the Union army during the Civil War rendered an invaluable service, as they were of good physique, brave, and, most important of all, many of them had served in the German army and were thus enabled to act as drill masters. One of these patriots was Henry Sanders, who came to America in 1858, landing at New York, the trip from Hamburg to New York consuming forty-five days. He worked in a saw-mill until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Company K, Sixth Maryland Volunteer Infantry, and was in the Army of the Potomac, serving till the end of the war.

Henry Sanders was born in eastern Prussia on June 17, 1830, his parents being John and Margaret (Sember) Sanders, who were life-long residents of Germany, and were the parents of eleven children, of whom Henry alone came to America. As a boy Henry Sanders attended the schools of Germany, also learning the dyeing trade, making colored patterns on calicoes, linens, and other cloths. He was three years in learning this trade, at which he worked four years in Germany. He also served four years in the army, coming to America after being discharged. During his service in the Civil War he was wounded in the right leg, above the knee, during the battle at Visher Hill, and, being disabled, was discharged on May 25, 1865. He now receives a monthly pension of thirty dollars.

After the war Henry Sanders returned to Pennsylvania, where he worked as a farm hand for several years. After marriage he moved to Richmond, Indiana, and then to Union county, where he began farming. Coming to Preble county in 1883, he bought fifty acres of the farm on which he now lives, afterward buying an additional thirty acres. This land is fertile and well improved and Mr. Sanders applies modern ideas to its cultivation.

On November 13, 1864, Henry Sanders married Hannah Heinzelman, whose father and mother were of German birth. Ten children have been born to this union, one of whom died at the age of four, the others being.

George; Lizzie, the wife of Frank Mitchell; Minnie, the wife of Lee Larsh, of Dixon township; August, who married Flora Miller and lives in Dixon township; Henry, who married Eva Druly and also lives in Dixon township; Edward, who farms the home place; Walter; Homer, a painter, and Lawrence. The four last named are single.

Mr. and Mrs. Sanders are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Sanders is a Democrat. He is honest, upright and enterprising and is regarded as among the foremost men in his part of the county.

William Huber

The Union soldiers during the great war between the states builded more wisely than they knew. Through four years of suffering and hardships, through the horrors of imprisonment and the shadow of death, they laid the superstructure of the greatest temple ever dedicated to human freedom. The world looked on and called those soldiers sublime, for it was theirs to reach out the mighty arm of power and strike the chains from off the slave, to preserve the country from dissolution and to unfurl to the breeze the only flag that ever made tyrants tremble. For all their unmeasured deeds, the living present can never repay them. Pensions and political power may be thrown at their feet; art and sculpture may preserve upon canvas and in granite and bronze their unselfish deeds; history may commit to books, and cold type may give to the future the tales of their sufferings and triumphs, but to the children of the generations yet unborn it must remain to accord the full measure of appreciation and undying remembrance of the immortal characters carved out by the American soldiers in the dark days of the early sixties, numbered among whom was William Huber, who served in Company A, One Hundred and Sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and who was in active service until the close of the war, except during two weeks when he was a prisoner in the hands of the enemy.

William Huber, a highly respected farmer and citizen of Washington township, Preble county, Ohio, was bom in Cincinnati, January 10, 1846, the son of William and Sybilla (Bosense) Huber. William Huber, Sr., was bom in Germany and came to the United States at the age of eighteen. He went directly to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was engaged in operating a tannery, he being one of the partners in the business, and spent the rest of his life there. His wife, Sybilla Bosense, was bom in France and came to the

United States, locating in Gincinnati, where she grew to womanhood and was married. To her union with William Huber, Sr., nine children were born, those now living being, William, Jr., the subject of this sketch; Catharine, the wife of Henry Neideraur; Mary, the widow of Andrew Schwartz, of Columbus, Ohio; Charles, of Columbus, Ohio; Henry, of Texas, and Toney A., also of Columbus, Ohio.

William Huber, Jr., was reared in Cincinnati, Ohio, and learned the tanner's trade there. He enlisted in the Civil War in Company A, One Hundred and Sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was out until the close of the war, but was taken prisoner near the close and held for two weeks. After the 'war he came back to Cincinnati and resumed work at his trade.

At Evansville, Indiana, on May 14, 1869, William Huber was married to Catharine Moser, who was born in Pennsylvania and was the adopted daughter of a Mr. Moser. To Mr. and Mrs. Huber were born fourteen children, nine of whom are living : Edward, of Newport, Kentucky ; Mamie, who lives at home; Walter, of Eaton, Ohio; Sybilla, the wife of James Beatty, of Eaton, Ohio; Jeannette, the wife of Ollie Bailey, of Detroit, Michigan: Carl, of St. Paul, Minnesota; Anna, the wife of John Quinn, of Eaton, Ohio; Bessie, the wife of Grover Dunlap, of Lewisville, Indiana; and Robert, who is at home. Mr. and Mrs. Huber also reared Clara Lease, who married Earl Kuntz. Mrs. Huber died on September 1, 1910.

Mr. Huber is a Republican and has been active for a long time in the councils of his party. He is a man of rather wide influence and his counsel is much sought. Mr. Huber is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic post at Eaton, Ohio, and of the Methodist Episcopal church at Cincinnati, Ohio. He is the owner of a fine home and a farm of one hundred acres.

Specific mention is made in the following paragraphs of one of the worthy citizens of Preble county, Ohio, who has figured in the growth and development of the educational and agricultural interests of this favored locality and whose interests have been identified with its progress, contributing in a definite measure in his particular sphere of action to the well-being of the community in which he resides and to the advancement of its normal and legitimate growth. Earnest purpose and tireless energy, combined with good judgment and everyday common-sense, have been among his most

Thomas O'Leary, who successfully conducts a well-improved farm in Gasper township, is a native of Preble county, having been born in Dixon township, March 25, 1875. His parents, Cornelius and Mary (Kearney) O'Leary, were natives of Ireland, whence they came to the United States, locating at Cincinnati, Ohio, where they were married. About 1867 they came to Preble county, locating in Dixon township, where they lived for a number of years and then, in 1885, moved to Washington township, where they resided the remainder of their lives. Cornelius O'Leary was entitled to great credit for the progress he made in material affairs, for when he landed in Cincinnati he was entirely without funds, but, by dint of persistent energy and sound judgment, he acquired a comfortable home for himself and family. To himself and wife were born four children, three of whom are now living, Prof. John O'Leary, superintendent of the Eaton public schools; a sister, Ella, who married John Lally, of Union City, Indiana, and Thomas, the immediate subject of this sketch.

Thomas O'Leary was educated partly in Dixon and partly in Washington townships, this county, receiving his education in the district schools and the high school at Eaton, where he was graduated in 1895. He thereafter followed the pedagogical profession for ten terms, being successfully engaged in teaching in the public schools of his home county, acquiring an excellent reputation as an efficient and popular teacher. After his marriage in 1905, Mr. O'Leary lived one year in Dixon township and in 1906 moved to Gasper township, where he has since resided. He is the owner of the southwest quarter of section 28 in that township and has a well-improved and well-drained farm, which is numbered among the best agricultural tracts of that locality. Mr. O'Leary gives proper attention to the rotation of crops and other up-to-date ideas conducive to successful agriculture and is numbered among the intelligent and progressive farmers of Preble county. He also gives considerable attention to the raising of live stock, which he has found a profitable source of income. He is well-informed in every phase of agriculture and gives thoughtful direction to his work.

In February, 1905, Thomas O'Leary was united in marriage to Jennie Weadick, a daughter of Thomas and Mary A. (Yost) Weadick, and to this union have been born three children, Martha, Mary and Joseph.

Mr. O'Leary is allied with the Republican party and takes an intelligent interest in public affairs, though not aspiring to office for himself. He and the members of his family are adherents of the Catholic church at Eaton.

Because of his friendly manner, business ability, interest in public affairs and upright living Mr. O'Leary is regarded by all as one of the substantial and worthy citizens of Preble county and enjoys a large and favorable acquaintance.

Edward F. Wright

Edward F. Wright is a farmer of Gasper township, Preble county, Ohio, who has figured in the growth and development of the agricultural interests of his locality and whose interests have always been identified with its progress. In his particular sphere he has contributed a definite measure to the well-being of the community in which he resides and to the advancement of its normal and legitimate growth. Earnest purpose and tireless energy, combined with mature judgment and everyday common sense have been among his most prominent characteristics. He thoroughly merits the respect and esteem accorded him by the people of Gasper township.

Edward F. Wright was born on February 25, 1850, in Gasper township, Preble county, Ohio, the son of Samuel and Margaret (Runyan) Wright, the former a native of Preble county and the son of Samuel Wright, Sr., who came to the United States from Ireland and who, after coming to this country, lived in Gasper township, this county, the remainder of his life. Margaret Runyan was a native of Kentucky, who came to Preble county with her parents, Richard Runyan and wife, who lived in Preble county for many years.

Samuel Wright, Jr., the father of Edward F., was married in Preble county and was the father of nine children, William, born on November 12, 1841, who lives with Edward F. ; Samuel, who was married on April 16, 1840, and died on May it, 1886; Tabitha J., the wife of Jacob Studebaker ; Pauline Ann, the widow of William Girten ; Benjamin F., who married Sarah Miller, of California, and resides in that state; Edward F., whose history is here presented; Sallie, the wife of C. T. Wilkerson, and Elmer E., James A. and Mary T., the last three named of whom are deceased. The Wrights are earnest Methodists and their children were brought up in that faith.

Edward F. Wright was reared on a farm in Gasper township and was educated in the common schools, remaining at home with his father until he was twenty-one years old. He then began farming and lived on

Mr. Wright was married on September 15, 1875, to Maggie McDonald, who was born in Gasper township, this county. To this union three sons were born, Charles S., born on June 5, 1878, who is married and lives in Dayton, Ohio; Alonzo, born on February 15, 1880, who also is married, and Everett E., born November 18, 1882, who is married and lives in Lanier township. The mother of these children died on October 4, 1885, and on November 4, 1888, Mr. Wright married, secondly,

Mary A. Watson, who was born in Jay county, Indiana, June 27, 1863, the daughter of George B. and Catherine (Hoover) Watson. Mrs. Watson is still living at Portland, Indiana, but her husband died in 1898 in that city.

George B. Watson was born in Vermont, August 30, 1818, and came west when a young man, locating at Richmond, Indiana. He was employed in the woolen mills at Richmond and was married there in 1841. He purchased eighty acres of land in Jay county, Indiana, in 1842, all of which was woods. He cleared a spot and built a cabin four miles northwest of Portland, then a village of six or seven houses. He and his wife lived on this farm until 1881, in which year they moved to Portland, where he died in 1898. His wife was born on June 12, 1823. Mr. and Mrs. Watson were the parents of nine children, five of whom are still living, Sarah, the wife of Samuel Carson; Ernest, who married Rebecca Collett; George W., who is unmarried and lives at home; Mary A., the wife of Mr. Wright, and Mrs. J. B. Gibson, of Cincinnati, Ohio. The four deceased children were Abigail, Ira, Ella and Francis. The Watsons were prominent members of the Friends church in their community.

To Edward F. Wright, by his second marriage, two children were born, Eula M., born on February 26, 1892, who is at home, and Clara O.. born on March 17, 1896, who was graduated from the Eaton high school in 1913 and is a teacher in Twin township, this county.

The Wright family are all members of church and active in church affairs. Mr. Wright is a Republican and for years has been active in local politics. He has been the justice of the peace in Gasper township for about eight years.

Mr. Wright is a substantial citizen in the locality where he lives. He owns seventy-five acres of land, which he has acquired by his own labor. It is a good farm and located on the Franklin road, three miles southeast of Eaton, Ohio.

David M. King

Agriculture has been an honorable vocation since the earliest ages and, as a usual thing, men of honorable and humane impulses as well as those of energy and thrift have been patrons of husbandry. The free out-of-door life of the farm has a decided tendency to foster and develop that independence of mind and self-reliance which characterize true manhood. No truer blessing can befall a boy than to be reared in close touch with nature in the healthful, life-inspiring labor of the field. From the fruitful soil has sprung the bone and sinew of the country and the majority of our nation's great warriors, renowned statesmen and distinguished men of letters were bom on the farm and are indebted largely to its early influence for the distinction which they have attained. Many of the prominent citizens of Preble county not only derive their sustenance from the soil, but the healthful out-door life and vigorous toil have made them leaders among men. Among these respected farmers of Preble county is David M. King, of Washington township.

David M. King was born near Palestine, Darke county, Ohio, July 22, 1870, the son of C. C. and Barbara (Lavengood) King. His mother was born in Darke county, Ohio, the daughter of Peter and Peggy (Peck) Lavengood. The great-grandparents on both sides of Mrs. King's family were natives of Germany.

C. C. King was born in Maryland and, when a mere lad, both his parents died and he was taken by John Bowman to be reared. He came with the Bowman family to Ohio when he was six years old and grew up on a farm, receiving his education in the district schools. Mr. King married Barbara Lavengood and settled in Madison township, Darke county, Ohio, where he spent the rest of his life, his death occurring in 1895. His widow is now a resident of Darke county, this state. C. C. and Barbara (Lavengood) King were the parents of Elvina, the widow of Lloyd Akins, lives in Darke county; Henry, who married Phoebe Near, is a farmer in Arkansas; Noah C. is still single and lives with his mother; Ella, the wife of Owen Montgomery, lives near Dayton, Ohio, and David M., the subject of this sketch.

David M. King was reared on the old homestead in Darke county, Ohio, and was educated in the district schools. He attended school in the winter and in the summer he Worked on the farm until sixteen years of age. He then began working for himself and for sixteen years worked by the month. During this time he accumulated the money with which to buy sixty-three acres in Washington township, Preble county, two and one-half miles west of 'Eaton, known as "Kingston Farm,,, where he now resides.

On January 8, 1902, David M. King was married to Katie E. Miles, who was born in Lanier township, this county, in 1878, the daughter of Preston and Lucinda Miles, who received her education in the common schools. To Mr. and Mrs. King four children have been born, Virgie I., born on March 10, 1904; Dora O., born on March 17, 1905; Mary L., born on September 9, 1908, and Chester D., born on July 21, 1910.

Mr. and Mrs. King attend the Universalist church. Mr. King is a member of Waverly Lodge No. 143, Knights of Pythias, and has served in some of the offices of this lodge. He is a Republican. Mr. King keeps a good grade of. live stock of all kinds and makes a specialty of pure-blood white Plymouth Rock chickens.

David M. King has been an honest and upright man. He owes his present success to painstaking industry and prudent, careful management Mr. and Mrs. King enjoy the esteem of a large circle of friends.

Henry B. Kelley

Among the enterprising and progressive citizens of Preble county, Ohio, none stands higher in the esteem of his fellow men than Henry B. Kelley. He has long been actively engaged in agriculture in this county, and the years of his residence here have but served to strengthen the feeling of admiration on the part of his neighbors and friends. He has led an honorable life and has set a worthy example to the younger generation.

Henry B. Kelley was born in Lagro township, Wabash county, Indiana, September 17, 1870, the son of Edward A. and Ursula H. (Bond) Kelley. Edward A. Kelley was born in the same township, county and state, while his wife was born in Jefferson township, Huntington county, Indiana, March 7, 1848, the daughter of Aaron and Amy (Wight) Bond, natives of Wayne county, Indiana, born near Richmond.

Edward A. Kelley, who was born on June 25, 1845, *n Lagro township, Wabash county, Indiana, died there. He served during the Civil War in the One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, for a period of nine months. He and his wife were the parents of seven children, two of whom are living, Alfred W., who lives at Detroit, Michigan, and Henry B. Edward A., Matthew, Amy A., Albert and Franklin are deceased. Following the death of Mr. Kelley, his widow married Henley James, to which union one son was born, Grant, who lives in Detroit, Michigan.

On September 5, 1907, Henry B. Kelley was married to Emma Bloomfield, the daughter of Reuben and Amanda (Harbison) Bloomfield, the former of whom was born on November 10, 1809, on the farm where Henry B. Kelley now lives, a son of David and Rachel (Barklay) Bloomfield. Reuben Bloomfield died on March 3, 1885. By a second marriage he was the father of five children, two of whom are living, Julia, the wife of Jonas Markev, and Elizabeth, who is the widow of Pearson Pugh.

Mrs. Kelley was reared on the farm and was educated in the public schools of the county. She became a teacher and followed this occupation for seventeen years. On Mrs. Kelley's maternal side there were two ancestors in the Revolutionary War. One was Thomas Morgan, born in Cumberland county, Virginia, in 1749, and the other was Robert Harbison.

Mr. and Mrs. Kelley have no children. Mr. Kelley is a member of Waverly Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is past chancellor of the former lodge. He is a member of the Daughters of Rebekah at Eaton. Mrs. Kelley is a member of the Christian church. Politically, Mr. Kelley is a Republican. He owns one hundred and fifty-three acres in Washington township, three and one-half miles southwest of Eaton.

Robert Eaton Lowry

Robert Eaton Lowry, the historian of this volume, is an attorney of the Preble county bar, and has been a resident of that county since August, 1873. He was born on November 2, 1846, in Delaware county, Ohio, and through his own efforts and earnings, was educated at Central College Academy, eleven miles northeast of Columbus, Ohio, after which time he attended and graduated from Miami University, in th^ class of 1871. During the winters, while attending the academy and university, he taught school in Delaware, Franklin and Butler counties, and, after his graduation, he taught until 1885, being employed seven years at Gratis, Ohio, when he was honored by the people of Preble county, who elected him to the office of county surveyor, for six years, since which time he has been employed as an attorney.

During the Civil War he enlisted no less than four times, in various regiments, but, on account of his age, was dismissed and sent home, because of the opposition of his father, the last time after muster in Company B, Forty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from which he was discharged. Upon his return home, his father went in the One Hundred and

Forty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, so that every member of the family, by blood or marriage, carried Uncle Sam's honorable discharge, if old enough. The subject of this sketch served as mayor of Eaton for two years, from May, 1896, and has been for ten years a member of the Eaton public library, and also served as treasurer of the law library.

The father of the subject of this sketch, Andrew J. Lowry, was born in the state of Virginia, near the mouth of James river, in January, 1822. His parents, Andrew Lowry and Mary Lowry, came from County Down, Ireland, about sixteen miles southeast of Belfast, to that state in 1820, and with the great-grandfather, Andrew Lowry, came to Delaware county, Ohio, with their families in 1828, when they settled in Liberty township, where Andrew Lowry and his wife died, in 1836 and 1838, respectively. Andrew J. Lowry grew to manhood and lived in Liberty township all his life, owning a farm of one hundred and fifteen acres. He died on the farm in January, 1893. Andrew Lowrv had five brothers, John, Samuel, Robert, David and Crosby, and one sister, Ann, who married Philo Thomas.

The mother, Elizabeth (Cunningham) Lowry, married Andrew J. Lowry in January, 1844, and to them six children were born: Joseph C., who died in boyhood ; Robert E. ; Julia E., who married Lawrence E. Grennan, of Oxford, Ohio, both now deceased ; Phoebe L., who married William Dixon, now deceased; Mary E., who married Edward O. Randall, both of whom are since deceased, and Philo J., now of Amarillo, Texas. The parents of Elizabeth Lowry were Barnett and Mary (Eaton) Cunningham, who were natives of Connecticut, and came with their parents to Delaware county, Ohio, about 1805. Mary (Eaton) Cunningham's father was the government surveyor of most of the land in Delaware county, and a direct descendant of that John Eaton who landed at Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1624, and emigrated to the colony of Connecticut, in 1636, as related on his tombstone in the Berlin cemetery. To Barnett and Mary Cunningham were born eleven children, John, Joseph, Hugh, Elizabeth, James, Jane, Margaret, Phoebe, Mary, Barnett and one who died in infancy. All are deceased except Margaret. Elizabeth Lowry was born in December, 1821, and died in September, 1903. Robert E. Lowry married Mary Emily Hamilton on December 29, 1872, the daughter of Robert and Mary Hamilton, who was born on October 16, 1846, near Somerville, Ohio. The father, Robert Hamilton, was a native of Kilmarnock, Scotland, coming to this country when a young man, to Connecticut. The mother was the daughter of Joseph and Amy Cornish Fuller, who lived and died in the Farmington valley, about fifteen miles west of Hartford, Connecticut. Robert and Mary Hamilton were the parents of seven children, Joseph, Martha, Amy, Mary Emily, William, Thomas B. and Sarah A. Robert Hamilton died in 1869, sixty-one years old; Mary Hamilton died in 1902, eighty-five years old. Both were buried at West Elkton, Ohio, they having come to Butler county, in 1838, shortly after their marriage.

Robert E. Lowry and wife moved to Eaton, Ohio, in 1885. After serving a term as surveyor, he was admitted to practice law, in 1892, and practiced by himself until 1900, when he formed a partnership with Judge J. W. King, and, later on, Harry G. King became a member of the firm of King, Lowry & King, which so continued until Judge King's death, March, 1908, after which the firm became Lowry & King, and has so continued.

Mr. Lowry belongs to Bolivar Lodge No. 82, Free and Accepted Masons, to Eaton Chapter No. 22, Royal Arch Masons, to Waverly Lodge No. 143, Knights of Pythias, and to Mulharen-O'Cain Post No. 3, Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. and Mrs. Lowry belong to the Presbyterian church, of Eaton, in which he officiates as a deacon. In fact both were educated and reared as Presbyterians, and as Republicans, and still hold the faith of their childhood, both religiously and politically. They each have, during their married lives, tried to be loving, cheerful and capable helpmeets to each other, and good and respectable citizens of the county, who tried to help push the car of progress along, although at times fate has seemed to have dealt with them somewhat harshly. They have endeavored to remember the motto :

Orange Markey

The true measure of individual success is determined by what one has accomplished. An enumeration of those men of the past generation who were successful in their life work and wrho at the same time left the mark of their strong personality upon the community, men who won honor and recognition for themselves and, at the same time, conferred honor upon the localities in which they resided, would be incomplete were there failure to make specivc mention of Orange Markey, for, although he is now sleeping: liletp of the just, his ir v iortunate as to enjoy n the pages of Preble C( m allowed anything t iL^hiul performance of oi sturdy effort tor mim of Christian pi un character. Pure, co' land illumined the me -Official observer only >^Me. His face wai ^ was with him th< > mortal life.

The late Orange ) the son of Josep ^ common schools < Northern Vniv diversity at Columb tip fanning and mo$t success! the time of his ^ Markey ha '*« gradua entered this p of the just, his influence still pervades the lives of those who were unate as to enjoy his acquaintance. His name is deeply engraved pages of Preble county's history. His life was a busy one, but he .flowed anything to interfere with his Christian obligations or the performance of his church duties. His entire Christian life was sturdy effort for the worth of Christian doctrine, the purity and lr of Christian principles, and the beauty and inspiration of Chrisiracter. Pure, constant and noble was the spiritual flame that burned illumined the mortal tenement of the late Orange Markey. To the ial observer only a small appreciation of his intrinsic spirituality is . His face was fortified by the lines of deepest study. Christian vas with him the utmost concern among the changes and chances of rtal life.

ie late Orange Markey was born on March 9, 1864, in Preble county, he son of Joseph and Barbara (Hart) Markey. He was educated in nmon schools of Preble county and later became a student at the Northern University at Ada, Ohio, and then attended the State dty at Columbus, Ohio, eighteen months. Early in life, Mr. Markey farming and at the time of his death, in 1911, was considered one most successful and enterprising farmers of Preble county, Ohio, time of his death most of his children had been reared to maturity r. Markey had been able to give them splendid education, one son been graduated from the Ohio State University and another son entered this great institution.

On March 22, 1888, the late Orange Markey was married to Ida rt, who was born in Huntington county. Indiana, April 1, 1865, the -r of Henry and Zylpha (Bond) Barnhart, the former a native of county, Ohio, and the latter a native of Huntington county, Indiana, larkey was reared in' Huntington county, Indiana, and was educated oublic schools of that county. Her father lived for a time in Huntcounty and later removed to Henry county, Indiana. He and his ere the parents of four children, Mary, who died when young; Ida, :low of Mr. Markey; Florence, the wife of Charles Zehring, of )mery county; and Clara, deceased. Mrs. Markey's father died in gton county, Indiana, and her mother afterwards married Christian moving to Preble county, Ohio, where she spent the rest of her Mrs. Markey was ten years old when she was brought to Preble Ohio. She had attended the schools of Huntington county, :eived some additional education in the schools of Preble county.

Mr. and Mrs. Orange Markey were the parents of eight children, seven of whom are still living, Paul, a graduate of the Eaton high school, who later was graduated from the Ohio State University at Columbus, Ohio; Joseph, also a graduate of the Eaton high school, is now completing the course at Ohio State University; Ruth, who is a student in the sophomore year at the Eaton high school; Ethel, who also is a student in the Eaton high school; Ray, a graduate of the Eaton high school; Robert, deceased; Hugh and Stanley, students in the country schools of Preble county.

Mr. Markey died on March 22, 1911, leaving Mrs. Markey with a splendid modern home, the best in the township in which she resides. She was left well provided for at the death of her husband and owns one hundred and seven acres of land, four and one-half miles south of Eaton. The late Orange Markey was a man who enjoyed the esteem and confidence of all with whom he ever had relations. His death is lamented today as one of the distinct losses to the civic and social life of Gasper township, where he lived. Mrs. Markey is one of the noble-minded and large-hearted women of Preble county, who is eminently deserving of recognition as an important factor in the wholesome conditions of life in the community where she has lived. She is a devoted member of the German Baptist church, a kind mother and a woman who was sincerely devoted to the work and the interests of her departed husband.

Ezra M. Creager

One of the enterprising and successful farmers of Preble county, who has succeeded in his chosen vocation altogether by his own courage, industry and good management is Ezra M. Creager, of Washington township, the proprietor of "Fairview Farm," consisting of one hundred and four acres and situated on the Franklin road, one mile southeast of Eaton. Mr. Creager is a man who believes in lending what aid he can to his neighbors and the general public while advancing his own interests. He has acquired a substantial competence, owns a fine, modem country home and deserves to rank as one of Preble county's best citizens.

Ezra M. Creager was born in Washington township, three miles north of Eaton, Ohio, February 4, 1867, the son of John R. and Sarah (Risinger) Creager. John R. Creager was born six miles north of Eaton in 1839, the son of Ezra and Delilah (Ford) Creager, both of whom were bom in Montgomery county, Ohio, in which county they were married, after which

John R. Creager w mk After his mari ater on the Risinger fa l Beam farm north\ ]m he moved to th k latter, caring for h to this farm, whe k pave, her death ( parents of three cl Unship; Ezra M., th< of Monroe tow Etta M. Creager Awls. On Noveml Francis M. and Cl fesonoi John Clav tome to this county f^ncis M. Clawson

Davis b unmarried and 1 ® Eaton, and Eli; oi Mr- and Mrs. i ^ accumulated ; acres non , and added thi ' fa'ty of raisin ^ in which h< ^c'cctric light.

me to Preble county, being among the earliest settlers here. They north of Eaton, on a farm now owned by Daniel Pence, where they le rest of their lives, being among the most honored and influential > of that section.

in R. Creager was reared on this farm and educated in the public After his marriage he lived on a rented farm west of Eaton and t the Risinger farm until he purchased the farm known as the John im farm northwest of Eaton. He lived there for eleven years, le moved to the farm occupied by his father and remained with er, caring for him in his old age until his death. Later he moved this farm, where he died in 1894. His wife had preceded him to ve, her death occurring in 1882. John R. Creager and wife were mts of three children, Alice, the wife of John Waldren, of Monroe p; Ezra M., the subject of this sketch, and Anna, the wife of Charles )f Monroe township.

ra M. Creager was reared on the farm and educated in the common On November 29, 1888, he married Eliza B. Clawson, daughter icis M. and Christena (Mettert) Clawson. Francis M. Clawson was of John Clawson, who was an early settler in Preble county, having ) this county when the Indians were yet in possession of the land. M. Clawson and wife were the parents of five children, Mary, the E. L. Davis; Sarah A., the wife of Aden H. Schell; Henry T., who arried and lives in Eaton; Laura A., who is unmarried and lives in, and Eliza B., the wife of Mr. Creager. After the marriage and Mrs. Creager, they rented land for four years. When they cumulated a few hundred dollars, they bought several and threes acres northwest of Eaton. In the meantime Mr. Creager rented d added thirty-one acres to his farm in 1892, all this time making a y of raising tobacco. He bought his present farm in 1908. The n which he now lives, which is a modern ten-room house, equipped metric lights, hot water and a private heating plant, was built in 1912. ra M. Creager and wife are the parents of four sons, Edward L., , John E. and Abel L. Edward L. is a graduate of the Eaton high and has taught school. He is now a student in the Ohio State Uniat Columbus, Ohio. Carl C. is a farmer. John E. was graduated he Eaton high school. Abel L. is a student in the Eaton public

Democrat. Mr. Creager has made a remarkable success as a breeder of graded live stock. Mr. and Mrs. Creager are quiet and unassuming people and honorable citizens of Preble county, where they have spent their entire lives.

Thomas S. Skinner

The biographies of successful men are instructive as guides and incentives to those whose careers are yet to be achieved. The examples they furnish of patient purpose and consecutive endeavor strongly illustrate what is in the power of each to accomplish. Thomas S. Skinner is a conspicuous example of one who has lived to good purpose and achieved a definite degree of success in the sphere where his talents and energy have been applied.

Thomas S. Skinner was born on April 7, 1857, in Somers township, Preble county, Ohio, the son of Jonathan and Lydia (Powell) Skinner. Jonathan Skinner was born in North Carolina. He left that state with his parents in 1806 and in 1812 located near Camden, Ohio, the country thereabout at that time being a dense woods. Lydia Powell was born in Preble county, Ohio, the daughter of Hezekiah Powell.

Jonathan Skinner was reared in Somers township and educated in the common schools. He married Rhoda Bishop, who was the mother of three children, William Skinner being the only child born to this marriage who is now living. Mrs. Skinner died in 1842 and Mr. Skinner married, secondly, Lydia Powell, who was the mother of three children, Helena, the wife of William Gregg, who resides near Lafayette, Indiana; Margaret, the wife of Philip Shafer, of Lanier township, this county, and Thomas S., the subject of this sketch.

Thomas S. Skinner was reared on a farm in Somers township and was educated in the district schools which he attended until his eyes failed, when he gave his attention to farming. He worked by the month on a farm and later in a shop at Eaton, Ohio. Still later he returned to the farm and worked by the month, remaining with Nathan Fouts for twelve years.

On March 18, 1896, Mr. Skinner was married to Louise Winholt, the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Swartz) Winholt, both of whom were natives of Nuthersladt, Germany, and both of whom came to the United States on the same vessel, arriving at Trenton, Ohio, April 3, 1866. They were married on October 25, 1866, and lived at Trenton, Ohio, ten years. Henry Winholt then rented a farm and later purchased a farm consisting vi ok hundred and fift; *1 on December 6, 189 all living, John A., whc wity; Louise, who is 1 ad thresherman in Dix r. Wilkinson, of Wash educated in the common Mr. Skinner is a ad proprietor of "\Y; aed tour miles southwe Mrs. Skinner was wilier of Waverly L Skinner are me & Skinner is a Repi fie and his wife are 'here they are so we1 wive part.

^e personal r dances to a pc finance in itself. ^'r personal qua' individuality upon N to such instit ^wittingly, perlv tois class of Wongs.

hundred and fifty-eight acres in Dixon township. Mrs. Winholt 1 December 6, 1890. She was the mother of four children, who are ing, John A., who is a farmer and thresher in Dixon township, this ; Louise, who is the wife of Mr. Skinner; George, who is a farmer resherman in Dixon township, and Anna, who is the wife of Frank Ikinson, of Washington township, this county. Mrs. Skinner was id in the common schools of Somers township, r. Skinner is a general farmer and stock raiser. He is the owner oprietor of "Walnut Grove Farm," consisting of forty acres, situ- »ur miles southwest of Eaton, Ohio.

rs. Skinner was reared in the Lutheran church. Mr. Skinner is a r of Waverly Lodge No. 143, Knights of Pythias, and both Mr. and skinner are members of Dorcas Temple No. 105, Pythian Sisters, dnner is a Republican, but has never taken an active part in politics, d his wife are highly respected citizens of Washington township, they are so well known and in the good works of which they take an part.

Silas Q. Buriff

he personal record of a man who has raised himself from poor cirnces to a position of responsibility and trust in a community is a :e in itself. Self-made men, who have achieved success by reason of >ersonal qualities and industry and have left the impress of their uality upon the political and civic life of a county, effect a permanent o such institutions as are embraced within their sphere of usefulness, tingly. perhaps, they build monuments more enduring than marble, is class of men, Silas Q. Buriff, of Preble county, undoubtedly s.

lias Q. Buriff, farmer, stockman and one of the county officials of county, Ohio, was born on October 6, 1867, in Lanier township, this . the son of Andrew J. and Minerva (Carter) Buriff, the former of had been born in Perry county, Ohio. At an early age Andrew J. was left an orphan and was taken by his uncle to be reared and ed. He first worked on the farm in Perry county, Ohio, but went in on and boat to Iowa, in which state his uncle took a claim. He lived two years, at the end of which time he returned to Ohio and worked *hland county on a farm, later coming, with the owner of this farm, ?ble county. He was married here to Minerva Carter and for some time was located on a farm, but in 1909 moved to Eaton, where he and his wife now reside. They were the parents of nine children, six of whom are living, Silas Q., the subject of this sketch; Emma, who is the wife of William White, of Lewisburg, Ohio; Sallie, who married Carl Ballinger, of Dixon township; Charles Manuel, who married Allie Weeks and lives in Dayton, Ohio; Lawrence, who married Bertha Treffinger and lives in Casper township, and Clara, the wife of Irvin Shock, of Washington township.

Silas Buriff was reared on a farm in this county and received his education in the district schools and the normal school. He became a teacher and taught in the schools of Preble county for eight years, at the end of which time he went to farming.

Silas Q. Buriff was married on August 4, 1893, to Susie Greenwood, who was born in Campbell county, Kentucky, the daughter of John and Pernelia Greenwood. Mrs. Buriff was educated in the common schools of her native county. Mr. Buriff wras a poor man when he was married and rented a farm for some years, after which he bought a farm of ninety-four acres in the southwest quarter of Washington township. He has made substantial improvements upon this farm, including a modern eleven-room house, which is equipped with furnace, lights, bath and all modern conveniences.

To Mr. and Mrs. Buriff six children have been born, Stanley, Elsie, Gilbert, Minerva, Leroy and Leonard, all of whom are at home. Gilbert is a student in the Eaton high school. Mr. Buriff owns a fine automobile. He gives much attention to the raising of hogs, out of which he has made the largest part of his money.

Mr. Buriff is a Democrat and served two terms as trusteee of Washington township. In 1912 he was elected a member of the board of county commissioners, and was re-elected in 1914, in a county that is normally Republican, by three hundred majority. Mr. Buriff's repeated elections are the best testimony that can be presented of the efficiency and courage with which he has served the people. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Sugar Valley and are active in the work of that denomination. Mr. Buriff is a trustee of the church and is superintendent of the Sunday school. He is a member of Waverly Lodge No. I43> Knights of Pythias. In Preble county, where Mr. Buriff is so well known, he is regarded as a quiet and unassuming man and a most honorable citizen, deserving to rank as one of the most successful men now living in Preble county.

lives and activities of v and indomitable energ where they deserve tt has outstripped the lesi a career of satisfactory delight to honor and industry.

William R. Chris ®?ton township, Prel M? I2' ^843, the so Jacob Christman Daniel and Susanna pnia, who came to t ^ and his wife w< ^ and Jacob.

William R. Christman

he best history of a community is that which deals most with the nd activities of its people, especially those who by their own endeavor idomitable energy have forged to the front and placed themselves they deserve the title of progressive men. William R. Christman tstripped the less active plodders on the highway of life and achieved t of satisfactory accomplishments in agriculture and a name which all elight to honor, because of his upright life and his habits of thrift dustry.

rilliam R. Christman, a highly respected farmer and citizen of Washtownship, Preble county, Ohio, was born on the farm he now owns, 2, 1843, ^e son of Jacob and Julia A. (Riner) Christman, cob Christman was born in Preble county March 1, 1810, the son of and Susanna Christman. Daniel Christman was a native of Virwho came to this county in 1798, where he spent the rest of his life, d his wife were the parents of five children, Solomon, Eliza, John, and Jacob.

cob Christman grew up on a farm in Preble county and was married a Ann Riner, who was born in Preble county, Ohio, November 18, he daughter of John and Polly Riner, her father also being a native ble county. He was one of the devoted and honored members of the list Episcopal church and was well informed in Bible literature, e of her high moral ideals, Julia Ann Christman was much admired community in which she lived and also was greatly honored by her Drs. She died in her ninety-eighth year. Jacob Christman and wife he parents of four children, John W., a resident of Eaton, Ohio; ., deceased; Oliver, also deceased, and William R. illiam R. Christman was reared on a farm and attended the local He always remained on the home farm and assumed charge of the pon his father's death, April 30, 1894. Jacob Christman was a man admired in his community, having been a stanch member of the list Episcopal church and a member of the official board for many nd his death was sincerely mourned. He was quite as strong in his 1 adherence as in his religious faith, having been a lifelong adherent Republican party and having been one of the first men to vote the ican ticket in Washington township. He had been honored with 1 to the board of directors of the county infirmary.

On February 23, 1871, William R. Christman was married to Elizabeth Bowsman, who was born in Preble county, a daughter of James and Kosanna Bowsman, who were the parents of three children, two of whom are now living, Harry, a farmer of Monroe township, who married Dora Surface, and Wilber H., who married Glenna Sample and lives on the old homestead. Mary died in infancy.

Mrs. Elizabeth Christman died on February 13, 1893, and Mr. Christman married, secondly, Harriett J. Ervin, who was born and reared in Jefferson township, this county.

Mr. and Mrs. Christman are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Eaton, and Mr. Christman is a member of Waverly Lodge No. 143, Knights of Pythias. Mr. Christman is a stalwart Republican and for years has been active in the councils of his party. He served as school director for many years.

Mr. Christman is possessed of a genial disposition, which alone would make him popular, but he also is admired and respected for his upright character and uniform record for square dealing.

John A. Dalrymple

Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails to bring success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulant to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are often attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunity for acquiring experiences of such kind, and its beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and self-improvement. John A. Dalrymple, a young farmer living in Washington township, this county, has, from the beginning of his career, taken advantage of opportunities as they were offered. In the community in which he lives he has established a reputation for industry, thrift and good management.

John A. Dalrymple was born in Washington township, Preble county, Ohio, August 16, 1885, a son of F. J. and Laura (Kayler) Dalrymple, both of whom are natives of Preble county, and are now residents of Eaton. F. J. and Laura Dalrymple were the parents of four children: Charles A..

the immediate subject married Nellie Gates, who is living with he John A. Dalryrr received his educatk ated, after which h Dayton, Ohio, from school he returned to ^lr. Dalrymple belii extensive set of bool and losses are on 1 invaluable service to Mr. Dalrymple daughter of Thorn? was a student of *"*- To Mr. am L- Myrtle C.. Mil 1. 1915.

nmediate subject of this review; Earl O., a resident of Eaton, who ed Nellie Gates, and Mary M., a graduate of the Eaton high school, s living with her parents.

ohn A. Dalrymple was reared on the farm where he now lives, and ed his education in the district schools, from which he was graduafter which he became a student of the Jacobs Business College, -n, Ohio, from which institution he was graduated. After leaving : he returned to the farm and has since engaged in agricultural pursuits, dalrymple believes in the modem science of farming and keeps an ;ive set of books, and at any time can ascertain exactly what his profits )sses are on the farm. His bookkeeping knowledge has proved of able service to him.

Ir. Dalrymple was married on January 28, 1906, to Cora Kirkhoff, the ter of Thomas M. Kirkhoff, who is a resident of Eaton, Ohio. She student of the Eaton public schools and was graduated from the To Mr. and Mrs. Dalrymple have been born four children, Blanche vrtle C., Mildred L. and Lois J., the latter of whom died on March 5- he Dalrymples are active members of the Lutheran church, and Mr. nple is one of the trustees of the church to which he is attached. He ember of the Preble County Protective Association, and was secretary - organization for three years. He is a Democrat, but has never taken part in politics, and has never aspired to or held office. He has made eminent success in managing the old homestead of one hundred and ive acres, situated five miles north of Eaton, and is one of the respected s of the community in which he lives.

Irvin Kisling

arming as a vocation is a hard master. It requires the closest kind >lication, much hard physical labor and long hours of service. It is lat the farmers work is never done, but it is also true that a man's s never done, no matter what his vocation is. The hopeful phase of 1 g is that men like Irvin Kisling, of Washington township, Preble , Ohio, are able to perform the hard work connected with the farm the same time retain their high spirits of optimism, vin Kisling was born in August, 1855, *n Washington township,

Preble county, Ohio, the son of Daniel and Anna (Werts) Kisling, the former a native of Preble county, born in 1829, the son of Henry Kisling, who was a native of Virginia, and who came to Ohio about 1806, locating five and one-half miles north of Eaton, being one of the first settlers in that township. Henry Kisling cleared away a small tract of land where he built a cabin, and there he spent the remainder of his life. To him and his wife were born ten children.

Daniel Kisling was reared in this township and there was married to Anna Werts, the daughter of Conrad Werts, who also was a native of Virginia. Daniel Kisling and wife were the parents of twelve children, ten of whom are living: Theodore Kisling, of Wabash, Indiana; Aramitta, the wife of James Cheeks, of Richmond, Indiana; Mary J., the wife of Henry Hoops, of Eaton, Ohio; Irvin, with whom this narrative deals; Effie, the wife of Cornelius Jones, of Indianapolis, Indiana; Emma, the widow of Mason Shack, a resident of Kansas City, Missouri; Annetta, the wife of Milton Williams, a resident of Harrison township, this county; Valandingham, of Spokane, Washington; Harvey, a farmer of Gasper township, and Edward, of St. Louis, Missouri.

Irvin Kisling was born and reared in Washington township, receiving his education in the district schools of his home township, attending school in the winter and working on his father's farm during the summer seasons. After his marriage he settled in Washington township, and began life without any financial assistance whatever. During the early years of his married life he rented land, and in 1891 he purchased his present farm of fiftysix acres.

On February 22, 1876, Irvin Kisling was married to Susan C. Cox, the daughter of Meredith and Elizabeth Cox, who was born in White county, Indiana, May 30, 1858. Mrs. Kisling's parents were reared in Preble county, but went to Indiana after their marriage. They returned, however, to Preble county, where they spent the remainder of their lives.

Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Kisling are the parents of five children: Mason, born on April 10, 1877, was graduated from the common schools, married Nina Shoemaker, and lives on a farm in Washington township; Eva E., born in December, 1878, was graduated from the common schools and is the wife of Ezra House, a farmer of Monroe township; Mary B., the wife of Leroy McNeal, of Eaton, Ohio; Henry F., also a graduate of the common schools, married Mary Gochanour, and lives in Washington township; Charles E., a graduate of the common schools, married Versie Siler, and is a farmer living in Washington township.

Mr. Kisling is a E active in political affai terms in that capacity able efficiency and to tive of party lines. > community where he 1 est esteem.

dr. Kisling is a Democrat, and although he has never been particularly in political affairs, he was elected township trustee and served two in that capacity, discharging the duties of the office with commendifficiency and to the entire satisfaction of his fellow citizens, irrespec- »f party lines. Mr. Kisling is an honored and respected citizen in the mnity where he lives and where he and his family are held in the high- ;teem.

Josiah E. Flora

Agriculture has always been an honorable vocation. The agricultural t of the United States today is more than equivalent to the total outf all the factories of the country put together. The farmer's ability to independently of other vocations is a point that distinguishes him from men. The merchant, the banker, the manufacturer, all depend upon irmer's crops. A famine in this country would bankrupt the strongest ant, wreck the largest bank and close the most gigantic factoiy. Businen may see their prideful commercial or industrial enterprises colwithin a week, but nothing short of an earthquake can ruin the farmland is, as it always has been, the most stable financial investment, may sweep the manufacturer out of business over night, but the farm- 1 survive when every other industry falls. Therefore, the farmer is ackbone of the nation, and he who makes two blades of grass grow i only one grew before is performing the most useful mission that a can perform. Preble county farmers are as good as may be found here in the world. Their history is largely the history of the material icement of the county. Among Preble county's excellent farmers, is none more deserving of recognition in this day than Josiah E. , former commissioner of Preble county, a resident of Gasper townmd proprietor of Elmwood farm, consisting of one hundred and sixty lying in the southeast corner of Gasper township.

Josiah E. Flora was born in Lanier township, Preble county, Ohio, Aun, i860, the son of Joseph and Mary A. (Eikenberry) Flora. Joseph was born in Gratis township, this county, the son of Henry and Ma- (Pagan) Flora. Marillis Flora was a remarkable woman and well n throughout Preble county. Not only was she a woman of unusual V, but her temperament and disposition were the marvel of all. She at the age of ninety-six, her husband dying at the age of ninety-one. had a large family, only one of whom is now living.

Joseph Flora was reared in Gratis township and his wife was reared in Lanier township. They were the parents of ten children, eight of whom are living: Marillis, the wife of John Stoner; Henry, of Lanier township; Lydia, the wife of William Smith; Elizabeth, the wife of S. F. Andrews; Isaac, of Dayton, Ohio; Elvira, the wife of Edward Copp, of Dayton; Drusilla, the wife of Van Landis, of Washington township, and Josiah E., the subject of this sketch.

Josiah E. Flora was reared in Lanier township, attending the district schools about three months each year during his early youth. He remained at home until he was married, at which time he had saved very little money. Mr. Fiord rented land for six years and then bought a part of his father's farm. This land has been improved by the construction of splendid buildings, good fences and drainage.

In 1885, Josiah E. Flora was married to Catherine Ankerman, who was reared in Washington township, and to this union two children were born: Orville, who married Anna Baker, and Ethel, who married Vinage

Murphy. Mrs. Catherine Flora died in 1900 and Mr. Flora married, secondly, Mrs. Nancy (Casey) Bums, to which union was born one son, Joe Gorden, born on June 9, 1905. Mrs. Flora has one son by her first marriage, Chester Burns, a graduate of the Camden high school and a student of Miami University. He is resident engineer of state highways in Preble county and lives at Eaton. He married Marie Alexander and they have two sons. Mrs. Flora was born in Gasper township, July 1, 1864, the daughter of O. D. and Rebecca (Mikesell) Casey, and was educated in the common schools of Preble county.

Besides the one hundred and sixty acres which Mr. Flora owns in Gasper township, he also owns one hundred and sixty acres in Lanier township and three tracts of fifty, sixty-five and one hundred and fifteen acres, respectively, in Somers township, making five hundred and fifty acres in all. Mr. Flora operates his farms on a large scale and raises a high grade of live stock.

Mr. Flora is a Republican and was elected as one of the commissioners of Preble county in 1902, serving more than six years in that office, and making a record that was eminently satisfactory to the citizens of Preble county. Mr. Flora is one of the directors of the Preble County National Bank, at Eaton. He has served as a member of the Preble county fair board for many years, and in January, 1915, was elected president of that board. For many years he has been interested in farmers* institutes in Preble county and is president of the Preble County Telephone Company, a n he has held for the past eight years. Mr. Flora is also president Gasper township school board. In every respect he deserves to rank of the representative citizens of Preble county. A man of large >s interests, active in the civic and political life of the county, he enle confidence and esteem of all the citizens thereof.

Frank Batdorf

he office of biography is mot to give voice to a man's modest esti- >f himself and his accomplishments, but rather to leave upon the recle verdict establishing his character by the consensus of opinion held ghbors, friends and fellow citizens. The life of Frank Batdorf has Lich as to elicit just praise from those who know him. He always has wal to the trusts reposed in. him, has been upright in his dealings with low men, and at the same time has lent his support to the advance- )f any worthy public cause which presented itself, rank Batdorf, the superintendent of the Preble county infirmary,. >rn in Montgomery county, Ohio, February 17, 1877, the son of Dan- I Rachel (Donnier) Batdorf. Daniel Batdorf was born in Mansfield, a son of John and Mary (Emery) Batdorf. John Batdorf was born insylvania, and Peter Donnier, the father of Rachel (Donnier) Batovas a native of Germany, coming to the United States when a young nd locating in Ohio, near Miamisburg.

'aniel Batdorf was married in Montgomery county, Ohio. He was a aker by trade, and farmed to some extent while working at his trade. >w makes his home in Dayton, Ohio, his wife having died in 1897. as the mother of nine children, seven of whom are still living: Will- 'sides in Canada: Harry is a farmer in Preble county: Mary is the >f John Woltja, of Washington township in this county; Clara is the ' of Frank Timmerman; Emma is the wife of Irvin Deem, of Washtownship; Daisy is the wife of Samuel Lee, of Darke county, Ohio, rank, the subject of this sketch.

rank Batdorf was reared in Montgomery county, Ohio, where he .intil nineteen years of age, attending the public schools of that counle came to Preble county about 1897, and for a time worked as a hand, after which he began working at the county infirmary, remainith that institution nine summers, in that time becoming thoroughly nted with its needs and the method of administration.

Mr. Batdorf was married on November 9, 1904, to Minnie Swartz, who was bom in Virginia, March 31, 1876, the daughter of John W. Swartz, who came to Preble county, Ohio, from Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Batdorf have no children.

Mr. Batdorf was appointed superintendent of the county infirmary on March 1, 1911, and has been reappointed each year since that time. Politically, he is a Democrat, but has never taken an active part in political affairs. Mr. Batdorf is enterprising in his private affairs, and is an honorable citizen of Preble county, being held in high regard by all who know him.

George H. Brouse

George H. Brouse is a plain, honest man of affairs, who, by his correct methods and strict regard for the rights of his neighbors and friends, has made his influence felt in Dixon township, Preble county, Ohio, where he lives. These qualities have won for Mr. Brouse a distinctive prestige in the agricultural circles of his community. He is one of those men whose integrity and strength of character must force them into a place of prominence which their modesty never seeks, a place where they leave the impression of their individuality and their good works.

George H. Brouse, a farmer living in Dixon township, Preble county, Ohio, was born on January 20, 1851, in Dixon township, the son of William and Catherine (Norman) Brouse. William Brouse was born on April 22, 1823, in Canton, Stark county, Ohio, and was the son of John Brouse, who was the son of Michael Brouse. Michael Brouse was a soldier in the Revolutionary war and lived to be one hundred and six years old. His son, John Brouse, moved with his family to Montgomery county, Ohio, locating near New Lebanon, where he lived until his death. He was the father of eight children, Cain, John, Henry, George, William, Polly, Sarah and Elizabeth.

Larkin Norman, Mr. Brouse's maternal grandfather, was a native of Rockingham county, Virginia, from which point he moved to New Lebanon, Montgomery county, Ohio, where he kept a store. He came to Preble county in an early day and kept a store in Sugar V alley and finally went to farming, purchasing a farm near West Alexandria. He later moved to Dixon township, near where Mr. Brouse now lives, and followed that oc- cjpation the remainde Dunkard church. He ' cemetery. He was fir four children. After William Brouse and lamed the pott later came to Preble < oi land, all of whi her of the Four M fc wife were the Martin N., who t Eaton county, Im ® Indiana ; Georg Ksinger; Pierce 1 Mjrker, of Wasl ler; Elizabeth H. oi ltl« Somerset, George H. Kx01' township. " the Eaton hi, Jt Lebanon, Ohi Ohio, f( and ot '^ofthepeac township assess ion the remainder of his life. He was a member of the Brethren or ard church. He died on May 6, 1875, and was buried in Sugar Hill ery. He was first married to Magdalene Miller and to them were bom :hildren. After her death, he married Elizabeth Greer.

Wiliam Brouse was reared to manhood in Montgomery county, Ohio, earned the potter's trade. There he married Catherine Norman and :ame to Preble county, Ohio, locating near Lewisburg. He later moved xon township and after living there a short time, purchased a small of land. In later years he owned one hundred and fifty-eight acres d, all of which he had acquired by his own efforts. He was a memthe Four Mile Dunkard church and a Democrat in politics. He and ife were the parents of nine children, six sons and three daughters, 1 N., who married Lydia Creek and lives near East Germantown in county, Indiana; Mary M., the wife of Fletcher Highley, who lives iana; George H., the subject of this sketch; Mattie, the wife of John er; Pierce W., who married Della Gray; Joseph L., who married Ollie r, of Washington township; Douglas L., who married Edith Stricklizabeth H., who is still single, and J. P. W., who is superintendent Somerset, Kentucky, public schools.

eorge H. Brouse was born and reared in school district No. 1, of township. He attended the district schools and later spent one year Eaton high school. He then attended the National Normal School anon, Ohio, and became a teacher. He taught in the schools of Preble , Ohio, for twenty years, mostly in two school districts. All of his rs and one sister have been teachers. Mr. Brouse was elected justhe peace of Dixon township and served two terms. He was also lip assessor for two terms and served as land appraiser during the

1 April, 1881, George H. Brouse was married to Sarah Catherine a granddaughter of William Bruce and a daughter of Hardin Bruce, ch union four children have been born, one dying in infancy. The iving children are Mary, the wife of Dolph Rinhart, of near Rich- Indiana; Ernest, who is single and lives on the farm; and Susie, the f Rev. Edwin Flory, of Covington, Ohio, a minister of the Christian

Mr. Brouse and his family are members of the Christian church at Concord, Ohio, and Mr. Brouse at one time served as superintendent of the Sunday school. Throughout his life he has been active in church work. Politically, Mr. Brouse is a Democrat.

Frank John

Representing one of the oldest and best-known families of Preble county, Ohio, and a man of enterprising and sterling worth, Frank John is well entitled to mention here among the substantial farmers of Preble county. It is with much satisfaction, therefore, that the story of his life and of his family is accorded a place in these pages.

Frank John was born in Union county, Indiana, August 22, 1861, a son of Enoch and M. E. (Swafford) John, the former of whom was born in Butler county, Ohio, near Millville, November 4, 1828, a son of Jehu and Catherine (Hasty) John. Jehu John also was a native of Butler county. The John family is of English descent, its lineage dating back to the coming of the "Mayflower" to this country, three John brothers being members of the immortal band that landed from that vessel, and descendants of these men constitute the John family of Preble county.

Enoch John was reared on a farm in Butler county, Ohio, and was educated in the common schools. By home reading and study he acquired a good education. He remained with his father until he was thirty years of age. In 1858 he married Mary E. Swafford, who was bom in Union county, Indiana, November 4, 1841, a daughter of Arch and Sarah (Burroughs) Swafford. Arch Swafford was a son of Isaac and Sarah (Armstrong) Swafford. Enoch John and wife were the parents of seven sons, five of whom are still living: William, who married Mina Deem; Frank, the immediate subject of this brief review; Edward, unmarried, lives in Eaton, Ohio; A. L., who married Retta Llewellyn, lives in Eaton, Ohio, and Everett, who married Mamie Huber. The two deceased sons were Daniel and Charles. Enoch John was a man well known in Preble county as an honorable and upright citizen. He died on May 28, 1906, and his widow survived him until October 30, 1911. Mrs. John joined the Christian church at West Florence, Ohio, in 1885, later uniting with the church

)i the same communion here to the time of her 1 m her home community, dearly loved by all who ' Iren, nine sons and twc Frank John was r n the district schools c sinters in the high sch e»ly age and has con *r of one hundred Faton. Ohio, on the w breeding of high- Duroc- Jersey Frank John has ^h the Republican \ h character and hi

Mle county 'hit measure of su ian"ecs should be ^'d attainmen t0 he accepted as; we of success aw John A. Win a' 508 oi Joseph' was bom ir same communion at Eaton, continuing her membership faithfully o the time of her death. She was one of the best women of her day home community. Her life was devoted to her family and she was loved by all who knew her. She was one of a family of twelve chilline sons and two daughters and one half-brother, ank John was reared on his father's farm, receiving his education district schools of his home neighborhood, after which he spent two > in the high school at Liberty, Indiana. He took up farming at an ige and has continued ever since in this vocation. He is now the of one hundred and fourteen acres, five and one-half miles west of Ohio, on the west road, and, besides general farming, specializes in ceding of high-grade live stock, in which he has achieved enviable , Duroc- Jersey hogs and Shorthorn cattle being his specialty, rank John has always been active in local politics, and is identified le Republican party. He is well known in Preble county for his sterlaracter and honorable, upright business methods.

reble county has many young farmers who are prospering far beyond easure of success their ages would appear to warrant. Among these 's should be mentioned the name of John A. Williams, a man of id attainments for the vocation he has chosen. If his past success is iccepted as a criterion, it is only natural to assume that a larger meassuccess awaits him.

)hn A. Williams was born on March 27, 1877, in Preble county, Ohio, of Joseph E. and Mary A. (Aukerman) Williams. Joseph E. Will- ^as born in Butler county, Ohio, a son of John S. and Susan (Lite- Williams, natives of New Jersey. Joseph E. Williams was married is county and in 1901 located on a farm in Washington township, where nt the rest of his life, his death occurring in 1904. His widow now n Thomasville, Georgia. Joseph E. Williams and wife were the parf three children: John A., with whom this narrative deals; Virgie after leaving school became a teacher for one year, after which he took up farming. Mr. Williams rents, from his mother, the farm he operates, and specializes in the breeding of Poland-China hogs, owning a splendid herd, headed by "See Expansion II," out of "A Wonder."

John A. Williams was married in March, 1906, to Elma Maier, who was born in Preble county, Ohio, in 1885, a daughter of George Maier and wife. To this union has been born one daughter, Josephine A., bom in 1908, who is now a student in the common schools.

Mr. Williams is a Republican, although not especially active in political affairs. Fraternally, he is a member of Bolivar Lodge No. 82, Free and Accepted Masons, and also belongs to Eaton Lodge No. 30, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Williams is a quiet, unassuming man, and altogether is an honorable citizen of the county in which he lives.

George A. Laird

Unceasing industry, sound business judgment and wise management have been the elements which have contributed to the success of George A. Laird, for many years an enterprising and progressive farmer and fruit grower of Jackson township, Preble county, Ohio. Mr. Laird's farm, known as "Sunrise Farm," consisting of eighteen acres, situated four miles east of Richmond, Indiana, on the Ohio electric traction line, is well improved and highly productive. Mr. Laird is a man of splendid character and unquestioned integrity and enjoys to a marked degree the sincere respect of the community in which he lives.

George A. Laird was born in Franklin county, Indiana, March 1, 1866, the son of James and Elizabeth (Keeley) Laird, the former a native of Ireland, born March 19, 1825, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. James Laird is still living at Fairhaven. He came with his parents to the United States in 1833, locating in Butler county, Ohio. He worked as a carpenter for many years in Preble and Butler counties.

James Laird and wife were the parents of eleven children, ten of whom are living: John F., a minister in the Methodist Episcopal church, in the Springfield, Ohio, conference, who was graduated from the National Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio: James W., a farmer in Preble county; William G., a farmer in Preble county; George A., the subject of this sketch; Charles F., a farmer of Preble county; Albert M., also a farmer of this county;

George A. Laird counties, Indiana, an< the common schools a taught six terms of si Mr. Laird was Mildred, was bom t<; school and the wife c Sadie Laird died a: which union three cl year of high school the Patterson exam county board of ex< "'ho is six.

the wife of J. J. Lee, of Union county, Indiana; Ella, who is single ves with her father; Hattie, the wife of I. N. Morrow, and Emma, fe of Edward Anderson.

-eorge A. Laird has lived in different places in Franklin and Union es, Indiana, and in Butler and Preble counties, Ohio. He attended mmon schools and the normal school at Camden, Ohio, after which he six terms of school in Preble county and in Van Wert county, Ohio. Ir. Laird was married in 1893, to Sadie Brown and one daughter, *d, was born to this union. She is a graduate of the New Paris high and the wife of Earl Maddock. They live near Camden, Ohio. Mrs. Laird died and Mr. Laird married, secondly, Marjorie Smith, to union three children have been born, Russell E., a student in the first -f high school at Campbellstown, having taken the highest average in itterson examination in this county, being awarded a silk flag by the board of examiners; Florence, who is ten years old, and Earnest A., six.

tr. Laird is an extensive grower of fruit and truck and finds a ble market for everything he is able to produce. He is enterprising, ssive and prosperous, a man of wide influence in his neighborhood, aird is a Republican and is a member of the Jackson township school holding this position with rare credit to himself and satisfaction to ople of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Laird and family are members Friends church at New Westville. The Lairds are quiet, unassuming , well respected in Jackson township and devoted to the best interests community in which they live and in which they are well-recognized rogress may well be said to form the keynote of the career of Sam- >tterman, a well-known and influential farmer now living in honorstirement in Lewisburg, Preble county, Ohio. He has not only been ited in the work of improving his personal fortune, but his influence en felt in the progress and prosperity of this community. Samuel man has been an industrious man all of his life and has striven to ibreast of the times. As a result, every mile-post in his career has him further and further advanced, more prosperous and possessed in increasing number of friends.

Samuel Cotterman, a well-known retired farmer of Lewisburg, Preble county, Ohio, was born on May 11, 1849, m Washington township, Preble county, Ohio. He is the son of Jonathan and Margaret (Kisling) Cotterman, to whom nine children were born. Two of them are now deceased. Jonathan Cotterman was born on September 11, 1817, in Montgomery county, Ohio, and was a chairmaker by trade. He came to Preble county in pioneer times and engaged in farming until he died, on February 1, 1894, aged seventy-six years, four months and twenty days. His wife, who, before her marriage, was Margaret Kisling, was born about 1821, in Preble county, Ohio, where she died on February 17, 1888, aged sixty-seven years, one month and fifteen days.

Samuel Cotterman was reared on the farm and attended the public schools of Preble county, Ohio. At the age of twenty-four he was employed in a flour- and saw-mill, and, later, owned and operated the mill on what is now known as Price's creek, in Preble county. He sold out and moved to Darke county, Ohio, about 1878, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres of land, only thirteen acres of which was cleared of timber and shrubbery. There was only a small shack on the farm at that time, but Mr. Cotterman, later, made extensive improvements, including fencing, drainage, the erection of out-buildings, after which time he operated the farm until 1902, when he came to Lewisburg. Here he purchased an elevator and operated it until 1905, when he sold out. He is now retired and lives in his comfortable home in Lewisburg. He has a share with his son, Francis, in three hundred and nineteen acres of land.

Samuel Cotterman was married, in 1874, to Isabella Rex, who was born on March 18, 1854, in Jay county, Indiana. She is the daughter of Herman and Diana (Shields) Rex. Herman Rex was bom on February 20, 1818, in Preble county, Ohio. He was a farmer, in Jay county, Indiana, and died on January 22, 1901. His wife, who was Diana Shields before her marriage, was born on November 21, 1825, in Virginia, and died in 1878. Two children have been born to this happy union, Francis E., who is a well-known farmer of Harrison township, and Alva I., who is a grain dealer in Eaton, Preble county, Ohio.

Mr. Cotterman is not identified with any particular party. He considers himself an independent voter and supports measures and men rather than political parties. He and his wife are active and devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Cotterman is held in high esteem by his neighbors, and has a host of friends in Lewisburg and vicinity, where he is well known for his upright character and many good traits of head and heart.

The history of a a chronicle of the lives upon society. The \v its representative citiz those whose work an perity and pride. 1 Preble county, Ohic fanning, is John J. < Campbellstown.

of Ireland, having « an early age, lar tortland and his ) Slen, deceased; J wto of Augustus J- Gan ^ tended the reached his main monto He rece estate< and now miles n Hr. Gartlar

John J. Gartland

The history of a county or state, as well as that of a nation, is chiefly rnicle of the lives and deeds of those men who confer honor and dignity society. The world judges the character of a community by those of )resentative citizens and yields its tribute of admiration and respect to whose work and actions constitute the record of a community's prosand pride. Among the prominent farmers of Jackson township, i county, Ohio, who are well known because of their success in ng, is John J. Gartland, a farmer living on rural route No. 1, out of bellstown.

ohn J. Gartland was bom in Gratis township, Preble county, Ohio, 13, 1866, a son of Michael and Margaret (Foley) Gartland. Michael md wras born near Dublin, Ireland, in 1829, and at the age of twenty to the United States, landing in New York City, where he remained x years. He was in the employ of Horace Greeley while in that city, ter came to Ohio, and worked in Butler county until he got a start, en married in New York City, after which he came to Preble county, ig on a farm of fifty-three acres in Gratis township, on which he the remainder of his life. His wife, Margaret Foley, also was a native land, having been born in County Cork, who came to the United States early age, landing at New York City, where she was married. Michael md and his wife were the parents of five children, William, Mary and deceased; John J., with whom this narrative deals, and Jennie, the )f Augustus Daub, living at West Middletown, Ohio, ohn J. Gartland was reared on his father's farm in Gratis township, ttended the district schools of his home neighborhood. When he -d his majority he began life for himself, working on a farm by the 1. He received three hundred and ninety dollars from his father's and now owns one hundred and sixty-three acres of land, five and ilf miles northwest of Eaton.

Ir. Gartland was married on April 30, 1895, to Mary Kennedy, who >orn in Preble county, Ohio, and educated in the district schools, a ter of Thomas and Anna (Lett) Kennedy, both natives of Ireland., is union have been born three children, Marie, born on July 6, 1898, student in the high school; Marguerite, born on July 12, 1899, is also lent in the high school, and Loretta, born on December 8, 1906, is a it in the third grade of the common schools.

Catholic church at Eaton, while, politically, Mr. Gartland is independent, preferring to cast his vote for individual men rather than for political parties. The Gartland family are highly esteemed in the community where they live. Mr. Gartland has not only been a successful farmer, but he has found time always for public movements and is thoroughly and deeply interested in the welfare of the community in which he lives.

Clifford C. Gard

The success of business men depends upon character as well as upon knowledge. Business demands confidence and where confidence is lacking, business lags. In every community some men are known for their upright character, strong common sense and moral worth, rather than for their wealth or political standing. Their neighbors and acquaintances respect them and the younger generation follow their example. Clifford C. Card, a stock buyer and shipper of Campbellstown, this county, is a man of this type. He is a man of modest and unassuming demeanor, well informed and a fine type of the reliable, self-made American, a friend to the poor and charitably disposed to the wants of his neighbors.

Clifford C. Gard was born in Dixon township, February 17, 1878, the son of Stephen and Sarah (Dillman) Gard. Stephen Gard was born in Jackson township, the son of Lorenzo and Matilda (Perkins) Gard, and had two brothers, Aaron and Simeon Gard.

Stephen Gard was reared on a farm in Jackson township and after he was married he worked in Dixon township, to which he had moved, and there he spent the remainder of his life. He was an ardent church member and a faithful Democrat. He died on March 5, 1908, and his widow is still living. Four children were born* to* them, two of whom are now diving, Oscar, a graduate of the Richmond Business College and a fur broker in Seattle, Washington, and Clifford C., the subject of this sketch. Two daughters. Ida and Emma, died in early childhood.

Clifford C. Gard was reared on a farm in Dixon township and was educated in the district schools and the high school. He is a graduate of the Richmond Business College. After finishing business college, he became a fireman on the Pennsylvania railroad and worked in that position for two years, his run being between Logansport and Cincinnati. Mr. Gard then operated a rented farm for seven years. He commenced the live stock business while living < raising of one-half a < the carload to marke scope of his operatic has accumulated a si On December 5 mate, who is a grac in 1900. She was years. To Mr. and bom October 14. 19 Mrs. Gard is a town. Mr. Gard i cepted Masons, at f tor three years. 1 j township. Mr. Ga * ^ and prosperity steetri in which hi m °f intellectual

?ss while living on the farm, his first venture in that line following his. g of one-half a carload of stock. He bought the other half and shipped irload to market, the venture being so profitable that he enlarged the of his operations. He has been very successful in this business and ccumulated a substantial competence.

)n December 5, 1906, Clifford C. Card was married to Nellie Shuwho is a graduate of the Jackson township schools, having finished 30. She was manager of the Campbellstown telephone exchange six To Mr. and Mrs. Gard one daughter has been born, Dorothy E., October 14, 1907, who is a student in the public schools.

Irs. Gard is an active member of the Christian church at Campbells- Mr. Gard is a member of Downey Lodge No. 233, Free and Ac- I Masons, at Boston, Indiana, and served as senior warden of his lodge iree years. He is a Democrat and has served as assessor of Dixon hip. Mr. Gard is proud of his native state and zealous of her prognd prosperity. He is a man who, in every respect, merits the high* 1 in which he is held bv his" neighbors and friends. He is not only a. >f intellectual attainments, but of high public spirit as well.

Isaac Newton Watts

)ne of the representative citizens of Jackson township, Preble county, and the proprietor of a large saw-mill in the township, is Isaac Newton . Mr. Watts has made a thorough and complete study of the business ich he is engaged, and has made more than an ordinary success of this He is an honorable and upright citizen, respected in the comy in which he lives, and is admired for his sterling integrity and rugged pies of square dealing.

saac Newton Watts was born on May 11. 1867, in the township where > lived all his life, a son of William and Rachel (Cline) Watts. Will- /atts was born in Indiana in August, 1829, and his wife was born in and both are still living. William Watts followed agricultural pursuits life, and to him and his wife nine children were born, eight of whom* ill living; Levi, John, Bud, Ida, R. L., J. I., I. N. and Maude, saac N. Watts was reared on his father's farm in Jackson township, reived his education in the district schools of his home neighborhood, e age of eighteen he started in life for himself, working on different farms in the neighborhood by the month until he was twenty-two years old. Mr. Watts had been able to save very little money by the time he reached this age. .

In June, 1889, Mr. Watts was married to Tillie Wolf, who is a daughter of J. P. Wolf, a prominent farmer of Jackson township. For several years after Mr. Wattss marriage, he worked on the farm, and now has general supervision of a farm of ninety-six acres belonging to his mother-in-law, in addition to his work at the mill. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Watts. John M. is a graduate of the business college at Richmond, Indiana, and is a farmer. He married Agnes McBride, February 28, 1914, and they have one son, Paul Newton, who was born on December 3, 1914. Lotha is unmarried and lives at home.

Since Mr. Watts has owned the saw-mill, which he operates, he has built a large and profitable business in Jackson township. He has been the sole owner of this mill since 1909.

Mr. Watts is a Republican, but he has never been especially active in political affairs. He casts his vote as is the duty of every good American citizen, but he has never aspired to hold public office. The Watts family are highly esteemed in the community in which they live and are well known in that part of Preble county.

bom August 17, 1834 (Couch) Wilson. Q was a native of Penn Ohio, in 1830. The they lived a number < where they lived on < four sons and four 1 Chauncy C. \Y: near Cincinnati, Ohi the outbreak of the Ninety-third Regim charged, and enlist* He was married, tl to this union three nie, the wife of J< reside in Cincinnat ried again, to Mis kth McKee, who in Butler county, ly-one children 0

Albert H. Wilson

Clearly defined purpose and consecutive effort in the affairs of life will inevitably result in attaining a due measure of success. In searching the career of one who has won success, by his own efforts, there comes into view the intrinsic individuality which made such accomplishment possible. While an objective incentive and inspiration is thus granted, at the same time there is enkindled a feeling of respect and admiration. The qualities which have made Albert H. Wilson one of the prominent and successful teachers of New Paris and Jefferson township, Preble county, Ohio, have also won for him the esteem of the older citizens of this city and community, an esteem which is well deserved. Mr. Wilson's career has been one of well directed energy, strong determination and honorable methods.

Albert H. Wilson, a teacher in the New Paris public schools, was born on a farm in Jefferson township, Preble county, Ohio, September 23, 1890. He is a son of Chauncy C. and Mary M. E. (McKee) Wilson, the former

August 17, 1834, in Dayton, Ohio, and a son of Charles and Sarah ch) Wilson. Charles Wilson was born in New Jersey, and his wife a native of Pennsylvania. They were married and located in Dayton,

, in 1830. The same year they removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, where lived a number of years, and then removed to Wayne county, Indiana, e they lived on a farm. Here Mr. Wilson died. He was the father of sons and four daughters, three of whom are living.