Shelby County, Ohio - Chapter 23: Miscellaneous, 1913 (part 10 of 14)

Charles M. McCashen attended the public schools and assisted his father and, with the exception of seven years, during which period he was a traveling salesman for a blank book firm, he has been continuously interested in agricultural pursuits. He is a stockholder in a number of substantial business concerns, including: the Booker Gibbs Plow Company of Canton, O. ; Charles Harris Company, importers of fine wearing apparel at Canton; and The Geiger-Jones Company, also of that city, an investment company.

Mr. McCashen was married in September, 1890, to Miss Cora A. Woolley, a daughter of William and Jennie (Johnston) Woolley, and they have one daughter, Agnes, who is a student in the high school at Pemberton. The father of Mrs. McCashen was a wagonmaker by trade and engaged in farming during the most of his life. Mr. and Mrs. Woolley reared the following children: Charles; Ora, wife of John Lorton; James; Daisy, now deceased, formerly the wife of Chester Staley; Frank: Harry; Grace, wife of Wallace Lochard ; William; and Cora A., wife of Mr. McCashen. As a citizen Mr. McCashen stands high and is president of the board of education in Perry township. He and family are active members of the Baptist church, of which he is financial secretary and is also a member of the board of deacons.

LEWIS GRANT SHANELY, a member of the board of education in Perry township, and a leading business man of Pemberton, is owner and proprietor of the L. G. Shanely elevator which he built here in 1903. Additionally he deals in all kinds of farm implements. Mr. Shanely was born in Champaign county, O., February 13, 1869, and is a son of Isaac and Barbara (Shaffer) Shanely. The father of Mr. Shanely was also born in Champaign county and has been a farmer all his active life. He married Barbara Shaffer, who was born in Germany, and they have had five children : Lewis Grant, Caroline, Jennie, George and Newton, the survivors being the oldest and the youngest. Isaac Shanely and wife are members of the United Brethren church.

commercial course at the Nelson Business College, but prior to this taught one term of school in Champaign county. After that he remained on the home farm until he came to Pemberton, where his business interests have been expanding ever since.

Mr. Shanely was married in 1901 to Miss Isophene Staley, who is a daughter of George W. and Sarah (Irvin) Staley, who were early settlers in their section of Shelby county, their other children being: Edward L. ; Minnie, wife of W. G. Murphy; Milton; George P.; J. Mark; Alice, wife of W. M. Buroker; Bessie, wife of Albert Linker; and Mary, wife of Clarence Rinehart. Four children make up the family of Mr., and Mrs. Shanely: Theodore Grant, Jennie, Charles and Staley. The family is well known in the pleasant social circles of the town and is active in all the work of the Methodist Episcopal church. Nominally Mr. Shanely is a republican but his political activities are frequently along the line of his own judgment, especially in local matters. For three years he served as clerk of Perry township and gave careful attention to the duties of office and made man}- personal friends during that time.

JACOB M. FINKENBINE, a substantial and well known citizen of Dinsmore township, Shelby county, O., who owns a valuable farm of 120 acres, situated one and one-half miles east of Anna, O., together with improved property in that town, was born on this farm April 27, 1854, and is a son of Louis and Sarah (Fogt) Finkenbine, for many years well known and highly respected residents of this township.

Jacob M. Finkenbine obtained his education in the district schools and has spent his entire life amid his present home surroundings. Remainng at home and asssting his father, when the latter died he fell heir to the homestead, and hence has never had reason to leave what he is convinced is one of the finest farming sections of the state. As soon as the property became his own he began the improvements which have made it both more valuable and very attractive, new buildings of modern type having been erected and other changes made, all in the direction of development and added material comfort. Mr. Finkenbine gives his personal attention to his different farm industries and is numbered with not only the busiest but also the most successful agriculturists of this neighborhood.

Mr. Finkenbine married Miss Sophia D. Billings, who died May 2, 1910 and was buried in Pearl cemetery in Franklin township. Her father, Frederick Billings was born in Germany. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Finkenbine: Frederick, Lena and Nora, the only survivor being Lena, who remains with her father. He is a member and liberal supporter of the Lutheran church. In politics he is a stanch democrat but at present is serving in no political office although his reputation as an intelligent, upright and trustworthy man would indicate that any public trust would be safe in his hands.

WILLIAM L. ALLTON, who is associated with his son in the ownership of the elevator at Swanders, O., is one of the well known and reliable business men of Franklin township. He was born in Logan county, O., February 3, 1856, and is a son of Albert G. and Martha M. (Wheeler) Allton.

Albert G. Allton was a farmer and lumber man and belonged to a pioneer family of Logan county. He married Martha M. Wheeler and they had the following children: William L., Alfred, Seymour, John W., Wheeler, James, Anna and Emma Florence, all surviving except Alfred, Seymour and Wheeler. Anna is the wife of James McMillen, and Emma Florence is the wife of C. J. Graver. The grandfather of the above family was Reason Allton, who was probably born in Pennsylvania. Albert G. Allton reared his family in the faith of the Baptist church and instilled political sentiments in his sons that made them all republicans.

William L. Allton obtained a district school education and at first started out for himself as a day laborer and then went to work in a saw mill. He continued in the lumber business for twenty-eight years and was still thus interested when he first embarked in the elevator business, which was in April, 1896. He had then an old plant which was subsequently torn down, the present one being erected by the firm of William L. Allton & Bros., in 1901, Mr. Allton's first partner being Rinehart Smith, of Sidney, O. A large business is done at Swanders, it being a fine shipping point, and Mr. Allton largely controls the grain trade.

On October 26, 1882, Mr. Allton was married to Miss Mary Conover, who was born in Shelby county and is a daughter of Benjamin and Maria D. (Wells) Conover, who were prominent people here. Mr. and Mrs. Allton have the following children : Emory LeRoy, who married Bertha Pearl Allen, of Shelby county, and they have one child, Eveline Lois; Clifford Conover; and Pearl and Agnes. Two children are deceased, Alice, who died at the age of eighteen years, and her twin brother, who died in infancy. Mr. Allton and family belong to the Reformed church. Although a very active citizen, Mr. Allton has never accepted political office except on one occasion when he served one term as trustee of Turtle Creek township. He is identified with the Knights of Pythias at Sidney.

JEREMIAH D. FERREE, whose valuable farm of 137 acres lies in Perry township now lives retired after a long and busy life, and is known and respected all through this section of the county. He was born in Salem township, Shelby county, April 28, 1845, and is a son of Daniel and Eliza (Dixon) Ferree.

Daniel Ferree was born in Adams county, Pa., and died in Miami county, Ind., in March, 1892. He married Eliza Dixon, who was born in Lancaster county, Pa., and who lived to the unusual age of 103 years, passing away on January 12, 191 2, at the home of her son, Jeremiah D., where she had been tenderly cared for for fifteen years previously. Daniel Ferree and wife had three children: Anna, who is the wife of George M. Gamble; Jeremiah D. ; and Edwin A., who lives in Kentucky.

Jeremiah D. Ferree was still young when he enlisted for service in the Civil war, becoming a member of Co. G, ist O. Vol. Caw, in which organization he was promoted to be first sergeant, and during the whole period of service was a brave, efficient and obedient soldier, winning the admiration of his comrades on many occasions and the approbation of his commanding officers. During one part of his service he was engaged in very dangerous work, although the entire period of a soldier's life is filled with danger, but on this occasion the hazard and danger were more than usual. A call for volunteers came for a secret mission and Mr. Ferree was one of those who exhibited courage and enlisted for this mission under Capt. Yeoman. The first indication of the nature of their work was when all were given Confederate uniforms and thus they marched in a certain direction all through one day up to midnight, when the captain told them that their mission was to capture Jefferson Davis, for whom a reward was offered by the Government, amounting to $100,000. Although every man at this stage was given a chance to retire from the pursuit not one gave up, and such was their diplomacy that they mingled every day with Confederate soldiers without having their disguise penetrated, and each day a secret courier was sent back to General Wilson, their commander. The subsequent capture of Davis is a matter of history and the prize money was distributed between the soldiers of the 4th Michigan, the ist Wisconsin and Captain Yeoman's brave squad of thirty-five men. Mr. Ferree took part in all the closing events of the war in which his regiment participated and was honorably discharged at Columbus, O., September 27, 1865. After his return from the army he completed his education and took a commercial course at Dayton, O., following which he taught one term of school in Shelby county. Later for some years he was in the saw mill business in Shelby county and then took up farming and continued until he retired from hard work.

Mr. Ferree was married September 29, 1870, to Miss Arvesta Line, who was born in Shelby county and is a daughter of D. M. and Sarah A. Line. and a granddaughter of Henry C. Line and of Solomon and Hannah (Rutman) Robeson. Mr. Ferree's paternal grandparents were Jacob and Elizabeth (LeFevre) Ferree, and the maternal, Haines and Elizabeth (Souder) Dixon, the former of whom was a Methodist preacher. Mrs. Ferree was the eldest born of her parents' family, the others being: Easton, Henry and Charles S. ; Agnes I., who became the wife of Jacob Piper; Dewitt F., Ellwood S. and Morris Robison; and Olive May, who married Arthur T. Culbertson.

Mr. and Mrs. Ferree have four children, all of whom occupy rather prominent positions in life. The eldest son, Ernest Franklin, is a well known attorney in Indiana. Judson A. is a successful physician of Dayton, O. He married Minnie Connor and they have two children: Marjorie and Virginia. Clarence E. is a man of scientific attainments and is professor of psychology, at Bryn Mawr College, Pa. Grace Agnes, the youngest, is a teacher in the school of domestic science at the Ohio State University at Columbus. Mr. and Mrs. Ferree were reared in the Methodist faith and attend that church.

Politically Mr. Ferree is a republican and for nine years served as a justice of the peace. He is a Knight Templar Mason, attached to the Commandery at Sidney, O.

ORLA A. BAKER, who is one of the substantial men of Shelby county, O., the owner of two farms aggregating 204 acres, situated in Perry township, and a member of the firm of Baker & Harris, implement dealers at Port Jefferson, O., is one of the enterprising young business men of this section. He was born on his father's farm in Perry township, August 31, 1881, and is a son of Martin A. and Christena (Smith) Baker. The father died in February, 1909, but the mother survives and resides at Jackson Center. The family consisted of three children: Ida, who is the wife of Cory Hoak; Orla A., and Elza A.

In the public schools of Perry township Orla A. Baker secured his education, after which he became interested in agricultural pursuits and successfully carried on farming and moderate stock raising, confining himself to the same until 1910, when he became interested additionally at Port Jefferson and since March 1, 1912, he has been the senior member of the firm of Baker & Harris. This firm carries a full line of hardware and handles all kinds of agricultural implements. While Mr. Baker cannot be regarded as a politician, he is a stanch democrat and gives loyal support to his party's candidates and without asking for political preferment for himself.

On December 31, 1903, Mr. Baker was married to Miss Ella E. Zedeker, who was born in Shelby county and is a daughter of Oliver and Margaret (Lawhead) Zedeker. Mrs. Baker has one brother, Clyde. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have one son, Ralph Emerson, who was born May 3, 1906. They are members of the Disciples church. He is connected with the Knights of Pythias at Maplewood, and with the Knights of Khorasan at Sidney, O.

ORRIN C. STALEY, who resides on his well improved farm of 100 acres which lie in Salem township, additionally, in partnership with his brother, Roger W., owns a valuable tract of thirty-eight acres, situated in Perry township, and is one of the well known men of Shelby county, belonging to a family established here by his grandfather eighty-one year ago. He was born in Salem township, Shelby county, O., east of Port Jefferson, January 17, 1 87 1, and is a son of Oliver C. and Anna (Cargill) Staley.

Oliver C. Staley was born in Shelby county in 1847, a son of William Staley, who was born in Montgomery county, O., in 182 1, and came with his father, John Staley, to Salem township, this county, in 183 1. In 1844 William Staley married Barbara Harshbarger, daughter of Jonas and Hettie (Jacobs) Harshbarger and they had four children. In 1869 Oliver C. Staley married Anna Cargill and two sons were born to them : Orrin C. and Roger W. The mother of these sons still lives on the homestead on section 20, Salem township, but the father died in February, 191 1. He was a representative man in his township and county, was a school teacher in his youth and later served in numerous township offices and for four years was county treasurer.

Orrin C. Staley attended the public schools in Salem township and afterward, for four years, the schools of Port Jefferson. Both he and brother early began to give practical assistance on the farm and after their school days were over the entire management was turned over to them. During the mother's lifetime the homestead of 209 acres belongs to her but, by the terms of the father's will, the sons are expected to finally come into the property. Mr. Staley is an enterprising and intelligent farmer and takes pride in keeping his place in fine condition. His father was one of the organizers and was president of the Farmers Telephone Company and Mr. Staley is a member of its board of directors and one of the stockholders.

On September 20, 1893, Mr. Staley was married to Miss Blanche Leapley, who was born in Shelby county, a daughter of Otho H. and Mary (Stone) Leapley. Mrs. Staley has three brothers and one sister: Charles E., Quinn, J. R., and Anna, who is the wife of A. N. Wooley. Mr. and Mrs. Staley have three children : Lova, Homer and Mary, all of whom are being given every advantage in the power of their parents. In politics Mr. Staley is a democrat but in local matters exercises discretion in casting his vote. He has served in the councils of his party on several occasions and has long been a member of the school board. Fraternally Mr. Staley confines his interest to the order of Odd Fellows and is identified with the lower branch at Port Jefferson and the Encampment at Sidney. With his family he attends and gives a liberal support to the Baptist church at Sidney.

HON. MARTIN QUINLISK, a retired farmer now residing at Sidney, O., occupying his comfortable residence ot No. 433 S. Main street, is one of the leading men of Shelby county and for many years was active and useful in public office. He was born in Ireland, August 1, 1845, ar>d is a son of Patrick and Catherine (Gleason) Quinlisk.

In 1848 the parents of Mr. Quinlisk came to America and for several years they lived on a farm in Butler county, O., in 1852 coming to Shelby county and renting a farm in Orange township for ten years. Patrick Quinlisk then bought a farm in Green township, containig 120 acres and continued to live there until the close of his life, when aged about sixty years. He and wife were members of the Catholic church.

Martin Quinlisk was only a boy when his father rented land in Orange township, and he became so attached to that place that in later years he bought the same farm, containing 160 acres. He attended school when his father could spare him and helped to clear and drain the Green township farm. He owns 230 acres all located in Orange township and carried on farming and stock raising until in February, 191 1, when he came to Sidney. He has always been a stanch democrat and an effective party worker and in 1893 was elected a member of the board of county commissioners and served until September 19, 1900, a period of six years and nine months. He served also on the fair board for four years, for three years being president of that body. His party had higher honors still for Mr. Quinlisk, in the spring of 191 2 placing him on the democratic ticket for state representative, and his election followed in

November, 19 12. Mr. Quinlisk is admirably qualified for high public office, being a man of superior judgment and of known personal integrity.

In 1877 Mr. Quinlisk was married to Miss Elizabeth Maloney, who was born in Miami county, O. They are members of the Catholic church and Mr. Quinlisk belongs to the fraternal order of' Knights of Columbus.

PAUL HARRIS, who is one of the younger business men of Port Jefferson, junior member of the firm of Baker & Harris, dealers in hardware and farm implements, was born on his father's farm in Logan county, O., April 4, 1888. He is a son of John W. and Matilda (Shick) Harris.

The Harris and Shick families are representative ones in Logan county and the older members had much to do with the making and carrying out of laws and statutes for the general welfare. Like other pioneer families of their day they engaged in road making and school and church building and made law abiding communities in which to rear children who now reflect honor on them. John W. and Matilda Harris had the following children born to them : Emmett, Elizabeth, Iva, Chester and George.

Paul Harris was reared and educated in Logan county and mainly spent his time on the home farm prior to March 1, 19 12, when he came to Port Jefferson and entered into his present partnership. The firm of Baker and Harris handles both shelf and heavy hardware and all the leading makes of agricultural implements, and their patronage comes from a wide surrounding territory.

In politics Mr. Harris is a democrat but is no seeker for office as at present he finds his time sufficiently employed with his own business problems. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Pythias and he was reared in the Methodist faith. He is an enterprising young man in his business relations and through a pleasing personality has many friends in social life.

WYANT A. DE WEESE, who is operating his wife's farm of eighty acres, which is a part of the Gearhart estate and lies in Perry township, Shelby county, O., is one of the best known and highly regarded citizens of the county in which for over twenty-five years he has been a successful school teacher. The De Weese name is well known throughout Shelby county in other connections for the family has long been one of sturdy character in this section. He was born on the land that his grandfather entered from the Government as early as 1804, on October 1, 1867, and is a son of Leonidas and Margaret (Thompson) De Weese.

Leonidas De Weese was born on his father's pioneer farm in Perry township, and now lives retired at Sidney, O. His first marriage was to Margaret Thompson, who died January 18, 1891, and she was the mother of eight children, namely: Laura D., who married A. L. Gibbs; Hamilton G. ; Wyant A.; Thornton N.. who died September 25, 1910; Hattie M., who married A. C. Dill ; Lagurna, who married W. L. C. Sturm ; Bertha, who married O. S. Vance; and Thurman G.. who is a bookkeeper in a bank at Norwalk, O. The setond marriaee of Mr. De Weese was to the widow of his brother, N.

W. De Weese, Mrs. Mary Ellen De Weese, who died in February, 191 1 ; and the third marriage was to Lucy Mowen, and they now reside at Sidney.

Wyant A. De Weese completed the common school course and then entered the Normal School at Ada, O., where he prepared for the profession of teaching, receiving his first certificate from A. B. C. Hitchcock. Since 1866 he has spent a part of every year in the educational field, mainly in Shelby county but also in Logan county, and in every neighborhood he finds a friendly welcome from some who have, at one time or another, profited under his instruction.

On February 14, 1897, Mr- De Weese was married to Miss Marilla Gearhart, a daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth A. (Burditt) Gearhart. They were Ohio people and the father of Mrs. De Weese was born in Miami county and the mother in Hancock county. The latter resides in the home of Mr. and Mrs. De Weese, the father having died some years since. They had two children : Marilla and George L., the latter of whom owns eighty-four acres of excellent land in Perry township. Mrs. De Weese is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a stanch democrat, as is his father, and he has served two terms as township trustee and on many occasions has been chosen as an official of educational organizations. His only fraternal connection is with the Knights of Pythias at Ouincy.

SAMUEL MILLER, whose three tracts of land, all lying in Perry township, aggregate 170 acres, is one of the well known and representative men of this section and belongs to an old and respected Ohio family. He was born in Perry township, Shelby county, August 26, 1850, and is a son of Henry R. and Catherine (Beasley) Miller. Henry R. Miller and wife came to Perry township, from near Springfield, O., where they had married. During his early married life he followed the blacksmith trade but afterward became a farmer and both he and wife died here and their burial was at Cedar Point. They had three children: Samuel; John; and Mary, who is the wife of John Doren.

Samuel Miller attended the district schools in boyhood and then gave his father assistance on the home farm until his own marriage at the age of twenty-two years. After that event he rented farm land for over twelve years and then purchased the 100-tract on which his son Charles now resides. He inherited sixty acres from his father and subsequently purchased twenty additional acres. His land is devoted to general agriculture but Mr. Miller no longer is active in carrying on the farm industries, his son and a son-in-law very capably bearing the responsibilities.

On June 27, 1872, Mr. Miller was married to Miss Nancy Jane Young, a daughter of Samuel and Jane (Johnston) Young. Mr. and Mrs. Young's children were: Lucinda, Ellen, Elizabeth, Margaret, Nancy Jane, Retta Jane, James and Frank. To Mr. and Mrs. Miller three children have been born, namely: Charles, who was married first to Ola Jenkins and after her death to Macey Mennier; Grace, who married Harvey De Weese and they have two children : Roy and Millard ; and Jennie Catherine, who resides at home. Mr.

Miller and family are active members of the United Brethren church. In politics Mr. Miller, like his late father, is a republican and has served his township in local offices. He has been particularly interested in the public schools and in forwarding the movement for good roads.

ROBISON JAMES DEWEESE, who is a well known citizen of Shelby county, O. and a prominent resident and substantial farmer of Perry township owns 136 acres, of very fine land. He was born on this farm, and is a son of Newton William and Sarah Jane (Thompson) DeWeese.

Newton William DeWeese was born in Miami county, O., but for many years was a farmer in Shelby county and died here in advanced age. His first marriage was to Sarah Jane Thompson, who was born in Shelby county, of Virginia parents. To this marriage the following children were born: John Bunyan, deceased; Smallwood Thompson, deceased; Robison James; Lewis McKelvey; Margaret Susannah, wife of David N. Spiece; and Sarah Jane, wife of Benjamin F. Struble. After the death of his first wife, Newton DeWeese married Elizabeth Epler and two children were born to them : Leota E., who is the wife of Jacob B. Strayer; and Erma, who died young. The family belonged to the Baptist church and the burial of the parents was in Glenn cemetery at Port Jefferson, O.

Robison J. DeWeese attended the district schools and afterward worked for his father on the home place for three years. He then embarked in the hardware business at Port Jefferson, where he continued for twenty years and for two years was in the same business at Piqua, and for one year, engaged in manufacturing elbows for tin spouting, being a tinner by trade. Finding an advantageous opportunity to dispose of this business he sold and in 1904 returned to the home farm, purchasing the interests of the other heirs in the same and ever since has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits here.

In 1 89 1 Mr. DeWeese was married to Miss Sarah Margaret Dutton, who was born in Shelby county. Her parents were Thomas and Mary (Field) Dutton, natives of England, the father being a miller by trade. Mr. and Mrs. Dutton had the following children: Frances, who is the widow of Abraham Allabaugh; Mary A., who is the wife of John W. Baker; William, who served in the Civil war, died shortly after its close; Edward, who is deceased; Elizabeth, who is deceased; Sarah Margaret, who is the wife of Mr. DeWeese and Laura, who married D. F. Moreland of Sidney. Mr. and Mrs. DeWeese have two children : Mae Agnes, and Roy Newton, residing at home, the latter being a member of the senior class in the Sidney high school.

In politics Mr. DeWeese is a democrat and at present is treasurer of Perry township and for five years was a member of the school board in this township. He is president of the Farmers Telephone Company and is a member of its board of directors. For many years he has been identified with the Odd Fellows at Port Jefferson and belongs to the encampment at Sidney.

DAVID T. CLINEHENS, one of the prominent men of Perry township, who owns the fine farm of 100 acres on which he resides, was born in Shelby county, May 6, 1853, and is a son of George and Eva (Muth) Clinehens.

And Representative Citizen'S 727

George Clinehens was born in Baden, Germany, where he was reared and from there came to the United States before his marriage. He was a farmer all his life, for many years being a respected resident of Dinsmore township, Shelby county, where his death occurred, and his burial was by the side of his wife in Pearl cemetery at Swanders, O. They were members of the Reformed church. The following children were born to them: Nicholas, deceased; Mary, wife of George Wenger; Conrad; George, deceased; Elizabeth, wife of W. R. Park; John; David T. ; and Philip R., deceased.

David T. Clinehens attended the district schools through boyhood and then worked for his father on the home farm until he was twenty-two years old when he started out for himself, buying the interests of the other heirs in the homestead, which he held until 1902 when he sold it and bought a onehalf section in Salem township. After living there for six years he sold and then bought his present farm from Thomas Kiser. After improving to some extent and remodeling the farm residence, Mr. Clinehens now owns one of the most attractive homes on the Dingman turnpike road. He has other property north of Sidney and also is a stockholder in the Farmers Telephone Company.

In 1880 Mr. Clinehens was married to Miss Ida J. Lochard, who was born in Champaign county, O., a daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Ellis) Lochard. Mrs. Clinehens had two brothers and one sister: John W., Isaac A. and Ella, who is now deceased and formerly was the wife of John Forry. To Mr. and Mrs. Clinehens the following children have been born: Ada May; Warthen Miller, who married Clara Clayton, died March 20, 191 1, they having two children - Ralph C, and Ruth Luella; Charles E. ; Raymond W. ; Gertrude Hazel and David Ellis. The family belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Mr. Clinehens is a democrat and has served in several township offices, for two terms being a member of the school board, and for two years turnpike superintendent.

GEORGE L. GEARHART, who carries on general farming and stock raising on his valuable farm of eighty-four acres, which lies in Perry township, Shelby county, O., was born in this township, January 18, 1870, and is the only son of Anthony and Elizabeth (Burditt) Gearhart. The father, who is now deceased, was born in Miami county, O., and the mother in Hancock county and the latter resides with her only daughter, Marilla, who is the wife of Wyant A. DeWeese.

George L. Gearhart remained on the home farm assisting his father after his school days were over, until he was twenty-three years old and then started out for himself. He began by renting 164 acres in Perry township, which he cultivated until his father died when he inherited his present farm of eightyfour acres and settled here. Many improvements seemed desirable and as rapidly as possible Mr. Gearhart brought them about, these including the tiling of the land in many places, the remodeling of the barn and the erection of a handsome residence with many modern comforts installed. He is a wide awake, progressive fanner and is prosperous.

In December, 1892, Mr. Gearhart was married to Miss Lavina J. Fogt, who was born in Shelby county, a daughter of John B. and Isabel (Ragan) Fogt. They were farming people of this county and the father died on his farm in Franklin township and his burial was in the Pearl cemetery. The mother survives and is a resident of Pemberton, O. They had the following children: Minnie, who is the wife of Frank Young; Elizabeth; Albert; Elmer; and Bertha, who is the wife of Charles Knief. Mrs. Fogt subsequently married William Line and they have one daughter, Ona, who is the wife of W. J. Foster.

Mr. and Mrs. Gearhart have two children: Gladys Ruth and Joy Marie. They attend the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Gearhart has always been a democrat in his political preference, and fraternally is identified with the F. & A. M. at Port Jefferson, O.

HENRY J. ZIMPFER, a very successful agriculturist and a well known and highly respected citizen of Dinsmore township, Shelby county, resides on his well improved farm of 165 acres, which lies two miles north of Anna, O. He was born on this farm in 1875, and is a son of John and Margaret (Beamer) Zimpfer. The family is of German extraction but both parents were born in Ohio, the mother being a native of Franklin township this county. For a number of years the father carried on fanning in Dinsmore township, where he was a leading member of the Lutheran church and a highly respected man. His death occurred July 2, 191 2. On November 25, 1869, he married Margaret Beamer, who died November 14, 1912. and they spent their entire married life in Dinsmore township. They had four children: Henry J., John, Jennie and Arthur, John and Arthur being deceased.

Henry J. Zimpfer secured his education in the public schools. He has always resided on the home farm and learned all the practical details of farming under his father, and since the property came into his hands has not only continued the old industries but has widened his interests, improved on old methods and has made this one of the fine farms of the county.

Mr. Zimpfer was married in 1896 to Miss Mertie Boyer, and all their children survive, the record being: James Arthur, born in 1S98; Thelma Ruth, in 1901 ; Sylva Ruberta, in 1903 ; Robert, in 1904, and Claude, in 1906. Mr. Zimpfer is giving them every advantage in his power and they are bright, representative young Americans with every promise of usefulness in the future. Mrs. Zimpfer had four brothers and two sisters: John, William, Elmer, Delia, Grace and one who died in infancy. Mr. Zimpfer and family are members of the Lutheran church. Like his late father, Mr. Zimpfer is a stanch democrat. He is treasurer of the Zimpfer special district school board.

WILLIAM C. BAKER, who is one of the valued citizens of Jackson township, is a general farmer and lives one and one-half miles south of Montra, on the west side of the Hussey turnpike road, where are located his 200 acres of well improved land. He was born on this farm, July 22, 1847, and is a son of Jefferson Baker and a grandson of Philip Baker.

Grandfather Philip Baker was born in Pennsylvania and when he came first to Ohio he settled in Clark county, four miles from Springfield. He married Mary Elizabeth Kessler, whose parents were natives of Germany, and their children were all born and reared in Clark county, namely : George, William, Jacob, Jefferson, James, Elizabeth, Sarah, Mary and Susan. Of the above family, Sarah lived to the remarkable age of ninety-three years. Philip Baker died a few months before the birth of his son, Jefferson Baker. His widow survived until 1869 and her burial was in the old cemetery at Port Jefferson.

Jefferson Baker came into the world fatherless but he was blessed with a careful mother and she gave him every educational advantage in her power. He became a scholar, for those days, and taught school and penmanship, being an expert with the old-fashioned goose quill, which has not been altogether succeeded by the steel pen, there yet being found old fashioned scriveners who prefer the flexible goose quill of long ago. Mr. Baker became a fanner, acquiring eighty acres of the large property above alluded to, and subsequently he purchased forty more acres and partly cleared his 120 acres but did not survive into advanced age, his death occurring in his forty-fifth year. His burial was in the Howell cemetery at Montra. In politics a stanch democrat he was elected on the democratic ticket to the office of township trustee and also served as school director. His marriage was with Margaret Critten, who was born in Virginia, a daughter of William Critten. She lived to be fifty-four years of age and was the cherished mother of the following children : William C. ; Mary Elizabeth, who married Marion Rhynard and they live at Ashley, Mich.; F. M., who died in May, 1909, in Michigan; John H., who is a resident of Lake View, O. The youngest born, a son, died when aged three years.

William C. Baker attended the district schools in Jackson township and also a select school at Port Jefferson, and afterward followed farming on the homestead during the summers and for thirteen terms taught school in the winter seasons. During this time he married and afterward lived for one winter on his father-in-law's farm in Perry township and then came on the homestead. The present residence and barn were built by Mr. Baker's father in 1870 but he has enlarged and improved them and completed the clearing of the land and, as a business, carries on a general agricultural line. Very often he has been called to positions of public responsibility and on the democratic ticket was elected county commissioner and served six years; served two terms as land appraiser; was township clerk and a trustee of Jackson township and for twenty-five years has served on the school booard. He is interested in the Farmers Telephone Company.

Mr. Baker was first married to Miss Mary C. Thompson, a daughter of the late James Thompson of Perry township. She is survived by one son, Allen, who married Alice Lefever. Mr. Baker's second marriage was to Miss Eureka Schmidt, and to this union the following children were born : Nora, who is the wife of Clarence Steenrod, residing at Maplewood, O. ; Milton, who is a resident of Maplewood, married Eva Clinehens; May, who lives at

730 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTYhome; Leo and Lina, twins, the former of whom married Lillie Fogt and the latter, Sidney Ailes ; Roscoe, who was a student at Harvard University, Boston, who is a natural mechanic, is in the well digging and pump repairing business at Montra; Ida, who lives at home; and Bessie and Clara who are yet in school. The family belongs to the Disciples church. He is identified with the local Grange and with the K. O. T. M. Mr. Baker and family are among the most representative people in this part of Shelby county.

ALLEN BAKER, general farmer and stock raiser, residing in Perry township, where he owns a farm of eighty-four acres, was born October 16, 1874, in Jackson township, Shelby county, and is a son of William C. and Mary (Thompson) Baker.

William C. Baker was a well known citizen of Shelby county. After the death of his first wife, when their one child, Allen, was eighteen months old, William C. Baker married Miss Eureka Schmidt, of Jackson township and of German ancestry. To the" second union the following children were born: Nora, wife of Clarence Steenrod; Milton, who married Effie Clinhens; May; Leo and Lina, twins, the former of whom married a Miss Fogt, and the latter, S. Ailes; and Boston, Ida, Bessie and Clara.

Allen Baker obtained a common school education and remained with his father until he was twenty-one years of age, moving then to his present property, which was an inheritance. In November, 1896, he was married to Miss Alice LeFevre, who is a daughter of Jacob and Delcina (Line) LeFevre. The LeFevre family is one well known in Shelby county, substantial farming people, and it is connected by marriage with a number of the other old families of this section. Mrs. Baker had the following brothers and sisters: Edward, who married Gertie Pulmere; William; James, who married Edna King; Warren, who is deceased, married Callie Baker; Minnie, who is the wife of Lafe Vester; Lagurney, who is the wife of Elza A. Baker; and Cora, who is the wife of Samuel Retter. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have three children: Leroy Allen, Velma Alice and Mary Catherine. The family attends the Church of Christ. In his political views, Mr. Baker is a democrat. He is a well known and highly respected citizen of this community and should he carry out a plan he has under consideration, that of removing, early in 1913, to Salem township, this neighborhood will have lost a good resident and a reliable and dependable man.

C. A. JACKSON, farmer; P. O. Sidney, O. ; son of Jesse S. and Mary E. (Sturm) Jackson, was born on the 15th day of April, 1861, in Wabash county, Ind. He is of German descent on his father's side and of Irish extraction on his mother's. His education is what could be obtained in the common schools of his youth and by close application to his studies at home. For a number of years he actively carried on the farming industry but, to some degree, has shifted his responsibilities to the shoulders of his sons in later years. As a side line he has been writing insurance for a number of yearc and has the bulk of that business, locally. He is an active citizen, possessing the confidence and esteem of those with whom his life lias been spent.

Mr. Jackson has frequently been called upon to accept public office. For four years he was a justice of the peace of Greene township, Shelby county, and at the present time is township assessor. In his views on public questions, he is a progressive republican.

Mr. Jackson married, June 18, 1885, to Miss Lucy E. Monroe, who was born at Pemberton, O.. March 9, 1868. The following children have been born to them, namely: Harry W., in 1886; Jesse C, in 1887; Mrs. Nora E. Manning in 1888; James E. in 1890, died in 1891 ; Lee M., born in 1892; Harvey, in 1894; Lyda R., in 1897; and Wilbur H. in 1902. Mr. Jackson and his entire family are members of the Christian church at Palestine, O., and for many years he has been superintendent of the Sunday school. Fraternally, he is an Odd Fellow, identified with both the lower branch and the encampment, belonging also to the auxiliary order of Rebeccas. He is a member of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, and its auxilliary, Ladies of the Golden Eagle ; of the Improved Order of Redmen ; and the Modern Workmen of America.

WALLACE S. DU VALL, who, with his father, owns a valuable farm containing 163 acres, situated in Salem township, Shelby county, O., was born on this farm, November 28, 1874, and is a son of Elias L. and Amanda (Scott) Du Vail.

Elias L. Du Vail was born aiso in Salem township, October 2, 1848, and is a son of Nimrod and Amassie (Le Fever) Du Vail, and was reared to an agricultural life. He had two brothers, Jacob and Manford, and three sisters, Adeline, Sarah and Malissa. In 1873 Elias L. Du Vail married a daughter of John and Nancy (Keith) Scott and their only child is Wallace S., of Salem township.

Wallace S. Du Vail worked for three years on the home farm after his school days were over and then became a commercial traveler, going on the road for the Standard Tie Company, of Detroit, Mich. He continued with that house for three years and afterward traveled for seven years far the Page Fence Company, of Adrian, Mich., after which he returned to the farm and ever since has taken a practical interest in general farming and stock raising.

Mr. Du Vail was married March 17, 1894, to Miss Clara Faulder, who died September 19, 1900. She was survived by two children, Hazel M. and Bertha I., and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. O. G. Shroyer, Frank Faulder, Harry, William, Mrs. Elza Pence, John, Mrs. Charles Valentine. Mrs. Dottie Bland and Wallace. Mr. Du Vail was married (second) in June, 1902, to Miss Ella M. Blue, a daughter of Henry Blue. Mrs. Du Vail had two brothers William and George, both deceased, and two half sisters: Mrs. DeWitt Bush, of Sidney, O., and Mrs. Gus Schnell. of Portland, Ore. Mr. and Mrs. Du Vail have one daughter, Anna M. Nominally Mr. Du Vail is a republican but exercises his own judgment when he casts his vote. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias lodge at Maplewood, as does his father.

JOHN W. ZEDEKER, who is one of the best known citizens of Shelby county, now living retired on his farm of 190 acres, which is situated in Franklin township, came here thirty-eight years ago and has been a continuous resident. He was born in Montgomery county, O., six miles north of Dayton, O., February 18, 1836, and is a son of Jacob E. and Mary M. (Campbell) Zedeker.

The Zedeker family was a pioneer one of Montgomery county and the father of John W. Zedeker was born on the old homestead there and remained through life on the same place on which his parents settled in 1805, passing away in his eighty-fifth year. He married Mary M. Campbell, who belonged to an old family of Highland county. O., and the following children were born to them: Eliza Jane, John W., Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah, Daniel S., Jacob E., Martha and Julia. They were among the founders of the Dunkard faith in Montgomery county and were liberal in church support.

John W. Zedeker had district school advantages in boyhood and from youth took part in the farm industries, which he found congenial, and continued throughout all his active life. In 1874 he came to Franklin township, Shelby county, at which time he purchased his present farm from William Bryant.

On August 20, 1862, Mr. Zedeker was married to Miss Mary Brandenberg, who was born in Montgomery county, a daughter of Samuel and Catherine (Brewer) Brandenberg, who came to Shelby county when Mrs. Zedeker was four years old. Samuel Brandenberg was born in Maryland and his wife in Virginia. They had the following children: Louis, Betsey, Samuel. Dorothy Ann, Christiana, Joseph, Catherine and Mary. They were members of the German Reformed church. Mr. and Mrs. Zedeker have two sons: Oliver C. and George W. The former is a resident of Salem township and has one daughter, Ella, who is the wife of Orla Baker and they have two children, Ralph and Clyde. The second son married Mattie YVess and they have five children: Ethel, Hazel, John, Wilbur and Charles. Mr. Zedeker and wife attend the German Reformed church. Nominally he is a democrat but in many campaigns Mr. Zedeker has exercised his own judgment in casting his vote but has always taken an interest in public matters and tried to be useful as a citizen. For seven years he served as township trustee and has favored plans for increasing the benefits of the public schools. He is one of the stockholders in the Farmers Telephone Company.

J. HENRY OUELLHORST, whose fine farm of 170 acres is situated one and three-fourth miles northwest of Kettlersville, in a desirable section of Van Buren township, is a well known and highly respected citizen. He was born October 4, 1855, in German township, Auglaize county, O.. and is a son of J. D. and Sophia (Neiter) Ouellhorst.

The parents of. Mr. Ouellhorst were born in Germany and both came to the United States in their youth and were residents of New Bremen, O. A family of ten children was born to them and named as follows : Henry, Mary, Herman, Anna, Ferdinand, J. Henry, Minnie, Deidrick, William and

Caroline. Herman married Minnie Egbert and they live in Van Buren township and have had two children, Sophia and Anna, the latter deceased; Anna, who is deceased, was the wife of Harmon Ollerman; Minnie, who is deceased, was the wife of F. C. Roettger; William, who is a resident of Kettlersville, married Henrietta Bartenstein ; and Caroline is the wife of J. F. Roettger and they live in Van Buren township. The others, with the exception of J. Herry, are deceased.

J. Henry Quellhorst obtained a district school education and farming and stock raising have been his business and occupation ever since. He inherited all but forty acres of his valuable farm, purchasing that tract, but has made all the improvements here and they are of a very substantial character. Mr. Quellhorst is a democrat in his political views and naturally takes pride in the great success of his party in the election of 1912. He belongs to the Evangelical church at Kettlersville, O. Mr. Quellhorst has never married.

J. E. WHITE, who has been a lifelong resident of Green township, Shelby county, O., resides on the farm of eighty acres, situated ten miles southeast of Sidney, on which he was born, in 1881, and is a son of G. M. and Mary E. (Moore) White.

G. M. White was a native of Miami county, O., born in 1837, and came to Shelby county witih his bride and lived on the present farm through a long and worthy life, his death occurring in his seventy-second year. He married Mary E. Moore, who resides on the homestead with her son, being now in her sixty-fifth year. There were but two children : W. E., who resides on an adjoining farm; and J. E.

In the public schools of Green township Mr. White and brother secured educational training and both then devoted themselves to farm pursuits, J. E. White devoting his entire time and attention to the management, development and improvement of his farm, having sensible and practical ideas which bring him very satisfactory results. He raises wheat, corn, rye and oats and enough stock for his own use.

J. A. HELMAN, whose well improved farm of fifty acres lies two miles east of Newport, O., on the south side of the Sidney and Newport road, running through Cynthian township, is serving as a member of the board of trustees of Cynthian township and otherwise is a representative citizen of this section. He was born in Indiana county, Pa., but in infancy was brought to Ohio, his parents, Silas and Almina Helman, settling in Darke county, where the father died. The mother survives and is a resident of Bradford, O.

J. A. Helman attended school in both Darke and Miami counties. He was seventeen years of. age when he came first to Cynthian township, which has been his continuous home with the exception of five years when he lived at Bradford, in Miami county. He purchased his excellent farm from the Carpenter heirs. Although he found the land in good condition, Mr. Helman

736 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTYwas not satisfied with the house and its surroundings and has made many improvements. He expended $200 in building an additional bed room and a pantry, on the west side of his residence, and on the east side built a 32-foot veranda, thereby adding greatly to its appearance. He also has laid cement and gravel walks and driveways to all approaches. He carries on a general agricultural line, including grain growing and stock raising and makes a specialty of potatoes.

Mr. Helman was married to Miss Mary Alice Cromer, who was born in Miami county, O., near Fletcher, and they have had six children: Harley H., Earl F., Ivan C, Leslie J., Agnes A. and Clarence S., the fifth born being now deceased. Mr. Helman and family are members of the Church of the Brethren. Politically he is a republican. For eight years he served as a member of the board of education of the Oran special school district, for two years being clerk'of that body, and in March, 1912, was appointed township trustee to serve out the unexpired term of the late James Wolaver.

THOMAS L. HIGGINS, whose excellent farm of sixty-five acres is situated five and one-half miles south of Sidney, O., was born March 2, 1873, in the Russell Settlement, in Turtle Creek township, Shelby county, O., and is a son of the late J. V. and Elizabeth (Dunn) Higgins, the former of whom is now deceased, but the latter lives on the old Dunn homestead.

Thomas L. Higgins was educated in the public schools and ever since has devoted himself to farming and stock raising, remaining on the home place until his marriage, when he came to his present farm and occupied it for two years and then moved into Miami county, where he rented farm land until 1907, when he returned and bought this place after renting it for five years, it formerly belonging to his father-in-law. Mr. Higgins is a careful, intelligent, experienced farmer and his crops and stock compare very favorably with any others in this section.

Mr. Higgins married Miss Eva Hauver, who is a daughter of the late J. C. Hauver, who came here from Maryland and was a well known farmer in Orange township. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins have four children : Bessie, Howard, Wayne and Catherine. In politics he is an independent voter and fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellows at Kirkwood.

WALKER ZIMPHER, one of the enterprising citizens and excellent farmers of Perry township, Shelby county, O., now serving in his first term as a member of the board of township trustees, is operating a farm of 100 acres, belonging to his father-in-law, J. J. Maxwell, and has other interests. He was born in Shelby county, O., in 1872, and is a son of George and Susan (Dill) Zimpher.

George Zimpher, who now lives retired at Pemberton, O., was a farmer in Shelby county for many years and both he and wife were natives of the county. Her death occurred in 1907. They had the following children : John ; Lewis; Hannah, wife of Elmer Killian; Clara, wife of Frank Spangy; Walker; and Lucy, wife of Harry Wirick.

Walker Zimpher went to school during boyhood and youth and since then has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, after reaching manhood working for two years for his father, and, following that, operated rented land until 1910, when he took charge of Mr. Maxwell's farm which he is conducting along modern methods, with good results.

Mr. Zimpher was married October 20, 1892, to Miss Maude Maxwell, a daughter of J. J. and Elizabeth (Key) Maxwell, and they have four children: Harry, who is employed by a telephone company; Bonnie, who, with her sister Helen, attends school; and Mabel, who is the youngest and still at home. Mr. Zimpher and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a democrat and fraternally is an Odd Fellow, belonging to the order at Quincy and the Encampment at Rosewood. Mr. Zimpher is one of the stockholders in the Farmers Telephone Company.

JOHN W. HERRING, who is one of the reliable and representative men of Salem township, Shelby county, O., resides on his excellent farm of 114 acres which he devotes to general agriculture. He was born in Salem township, August 23, 1859, and is a son of Alexander and Sarah (Studebaker) Herring.

Alexander Herring was a prosperous farmer and well known man in Salem township, where, for many years he also followed threshing. Both he and wife died here and their burial was at Port Jefferson. Their surviving children are all well known and respected people and mainly residents of Shelby county : Henry; Isaac; Thomas; John \Y. ; Laura, who is deceased, was the wife of William Frey; Bell, who is the wife of Frank Smith; Clara, who is the wife of Byrl Roach; Daniel; and Jennie, who is the wife of R. O. Weeks.

After his school days were over John W. Herring gave his father assistance on the home farm until he was thirty-eight years of age, at which time he came to his present property on which he has made many substantial improvements.

On March 13, 1898, Mr. Herring was married to Miss Louie Arthur, who was born in Stokes township, Logan county, O., a daughter of John N. and Mary R. (Taylor) Arthur. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur now live at Lake View, in Logan county, he having been a farmer during all his active life. Their family consisted of the following children: Arnold; Malissa, wife of Nicodemus Preston; William ; Thomas ; Mrs. Herring; Libby, deceased, who was the wife of Samuel Kemp; Austin, who is deceased; and Orlando. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Herring: Wesley Van; Karl, who died when aged two years and seven mdnths ; and Marion Robert. Mr. and Mrs. Herring are members and liberal supporters of the Christian church, of which Mr. Herring is a trustee. He was reared an old-time democrat but is a man who studies political questions for himself and is apt to vote entirely as his own judgment dictates, but in any event, whichever way he decides, he is a quiet, law supporting citizen.

J. W. THOMPSON, who operates his father's farm of 258 acres, situated nine miles southwest of Sidney, O., in a pleasant part of Washington township, Shelby county, was born in this township and is a son of Freeborn and Mary (Flynn) Thompson, who have lived retired at Piqua since 1909. The family contained three children : J. B., R. W. and J. E., the last named being deceased.

Since the end of his school days, R. W. Thompson has been continuously engaged in agricultural pursuits on this place, having no particular specialties but following both farming and stock raising. The Thompsons have all been farmers since the family was established here in 1818.

R. \V. Thompson married Miss Edna C. Burnett and they had one daughter, Nina E., who died when a babe of eight days. In his political sentiments Mr. Thompson has always been a republican and has been active and useful as a citizen and at present is serving as a member of the township board of trustees.

WILLIAM F. SALM, a leading citizen of Clinton township, Shelby county, O., a member of its board of trustees, is one of the representative business men of Sidney, being associated here in the furniture line with his father. He was born at Sidney, O., July 1, 1876, and is a son of Fred and Catherine (Drescher) Salm.

There are few better known or more highly respected men in Shelby county than Fred Salm, who, for forty-seven continuous years has been in the furniture business at Sidney, and also, is the senior member of the firm of Salm & Taylor, undertakers.

William F. Salm was reared at Sidney and was educated in the parochial school belonging to Holy Angels' Catholic church. Immediately afterward he entered his father's store and learned the furniture business in every detail and later became his assistant in the undertaking business and holds an embalmer's license. The quarters occupied are situated on West Poplar street, Sidney, where the largest display of fine furniture is afforded the public in the county. The business policy continues the same which has brought prosperity for almost a half century.

Mr. Salm was married to Nora Knapke, who was born at Coldwater, O., and they have three children : Mary Elizabeth, John William and Richard Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Salm are members of the Catholic church and he is identified with the Knights of Columbus and with the Elks. He is one of the township's influential democrats and is serving in his second term as trustee.

WALDO M. GAINES, M. D., physician and surgeon, at Pemberton, O.. has been professionally established here since June, 1910, and has built up a very satisfactory practice, and, as a permanent citizen, has identified himself with the best interests of the place. After completing the high school course at Covington, O., he entered the Ohio Northern University at Ada, and subsequently the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Indianapolis, Ind., where he was graduated in the class of 1905. For five years he was engaged in medical practice at Covington and from there came to Pemberton. Dr. Gaines is a son of Dr. Charles E. and Laura (Stevens) Gaines, the former of whom has been engaged in medical practice at Covington for twenty-five years. The other two members of the family are residents of Covington, namely: Mabel, wife of Clifford Townsend, and Theodora.

In 1908 Dr. Waldo M. Gaines was married to Miss Lena Brown, who was born in Miami county, O., a daughter of William and Mary (Tobias) Brown. The father of Mrs. Gaines was a contractor in Miami county and died there. She has one sister and one brother: Cora, who is the wife of George Thompson; and Edward. Dr. and Mrs. Gaines have one daughter, Mary Frances. They attend the Methodist Episcopal and Baptist churches. Dr. Gaines is identified with the leading medical organizations of the county, is a republican in his political views, and fraternally is connected with the Knights of Pythias at Covington.

GEORGE STENGEL, who is one of the substantial citizens of Franklin township, Shelby county, O., owns a valuable farm of ninety-five acres and a comfortable residence at Sidney, O., situated on the corner of St. Mary's and Maple streets. Mr. Stengel was born on this farm, December 31, 1856, and is a son of John M. and Sarah (Schiff) Stengel.

John M. Stengel and wife are both deceased. They were well known and highly respected people of Franklin township and the following children were born to them: Michael, who is deceased; Mary, who is the wife of J. P. Fogt; Barbara, who is the wife of John Brightweaser ; Lena, who is the wife of Joseph Beemer; Sophia, who is the wife of Andrew Bertsch; Caroline, who is the wife of L. F. Fogt; Margaret, who is the wife of Solomon Staley; and George.

George Stengel attended the district schools when he was a boy and early began to give his father assistance on the farm and has continued to be interested in farm industries all his life. His property is valuable, the location of his farm being a favorable one as regards transportation and under his methods is as productive as any land in Franklin township.

On September 22, 1882, Mr. Stengel was married to Miss Nancy Arena Shaffer, who was born in Shelby county, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth ( Blakely) Shaffer. To Mr. and Mrs. Stengel the following children have been born, all of whom survive : Edward, who married Anna Davis and they have three children - Mary, Viola and Agnes; Lewis Franklin; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Ira Slusser and they have three children - Irene, Unice and Gale; Bonnie, who is the wife of James Taylor and they have one child, Ileen; and Ora, who is the wife of Clarence Sturm and they have one child - Lois; and Walter and Milton. Mr. Stengel and wife were reared in the Lutheran faith and they and children belong to this church. Like his father before him, Mr. Stengel is a democrat.

and was eleven years old when his homesick, boyish eyes rested last on the green shores of his native land_ from the ship Keying, that was bearing him away to that land of promise across the sea - America. He left his parents, Patrick Cousins and Mary (Furlong) Wyman, behind, and they spent many more years there, the father dying when aged ninety years and the mother when still five years older.

As a cabin boy, with his brother John, on the brig Keying, bound from Liverpool to Newburyport, Mass., with a load of salt, William C. Wyman no doubt learned many hard lessons of life before land was reached. John Wyman later was given charge of one of Captain Cushing's vessels and again went to sea, but William started to complete his education in what was known as the West Male Grammar School. When he left school he once more became cabin boy on a vessel which sailed from Beverly, Mass., to Charleston, S. C, reaching port after a fearful struggle with the elements off Cape Hatteras. Later he once more went to sea, making two more trips across the Atlantic ocean, between Charleston and Liverpool. By this time he was tired of the sea and through a happy combination of circumstances, was led to find his way to Cincinnati, O. There his first work was done as a clerk in a grocery store and afterward he learned the plastering trade and followed that until 1853. Chance brought him to Sidney and fortunately he was pleased with the good people he met and with the evidences of thrift and business opportunity and shortly afterward came here as a permanent resident, becoming a contracting plasterer and gradually acquired not only a heavy financial standing but became a citizen who was justly regarded with confidence and esteem. In 1876 he was elected probate judge and served six continuous years. In 1884 -he was elected a trustee of Clinton township and in 1885 was elected mayor of Sidney and served through two years, also becoming librarian of the public library, continuing for eight years. For many years he served as a justice of the peace and more recently has been health officer of Sidney. Judge Wyman was active also during the Civil war and served as lieutenant of the military organization known as the "Squirrel Hunters."

On October 6, 1856, Judge Wyman was married to Miss Ellen E. Ryan, who was born and educated in Boston, Mass., and was the first teacher in the Catholic school at Sidney. She is a daughter of John S. and Bridget Ryan. Judge and Mrs. Wyman have five children living: Mollie, Nellie, Celia, Sidney and Charles. The second born, John, died in young manhood, when just ready to be admitted to the bar. During his whole life Judge Wyman has been a democrat in politics and a Roman Catholic in religious faith. He is a very versatile man and, among h'S other capacities, at one time added school teaching, being a very acceptable substitute teacher on one occasion in Orange township. At present he is a notary public and is engaged in the insurance business, including fire, plate glass' and accident protection.

PRESTON R. HUNT, who is a well-known resident of Plattsville, O., where he has lived for the past eighteen years, pleasantly occupies a part of his time in overseeing the industries successfully carried forward on bis valuable farm of 143 acres, which adjoins the village. He was born in Green township, Shelby county, O., one mile south of Palestine, December 25, 1845, and is a son of Heman R. and Anna (Conover) Hunt.

Heman R. Hunt was one of the pioneer settlers of Shelby county. He was born in Butler county. O.. and became a permanent resident of Shelby county in 1832, always afterward following farming and stock raising on his original farm until the close of his lite, when aged seventy-five years, being survived by his wife for five years. They had but two children: Preston R. and his brother, Bruce S., who is a physician at Sidney.

Preston R. Hunt obtained a district school education, reading, writing and arithmetic being its main elements, and afterward, for a short time before settling down to farming, taught school in Green township. For many years he carried on extensive operations by himself on his large acreage but for some years all heavy responsibilities have been turned over to his son.

Mr. Hunt married .Miss Rosannah Search and they have five children: Mrs. Florra F. Cornell, of Orange township; Charles Walter, who married Clara Martin: Viola, wife of L. L. Knoop; Kate J., wife of Findley Webster Brown and Heman Earl, who resides at home. In politics Mr. Hunt and sons are republicans. At times he has consented to serve in public office and for ten years was clerk of the Board of Education and for seven and one-half years was township clerk. Mr. Hunt is a member of the Universalist church.

ROGER W. STALEY. Perhaps there is no old family name better known or more highly respected in Salem township than that of Staley, which has been familiar here for eighty-one years. Roger W. Staley, who resides on his farm of 109 acres and has a one-half interest in a thirty-eight acre tract lying in Perry township, is a member of this family, the younger of two sons born to his parents, Oliver C. and Anna (Cargill) Staley. His birth took place at Port Jefferson, June 20, 1874.

Oliver C. Staley was born in Shelby county in 1847, a son of William Staley, who was born in Montgomery county, O.. in 1821, and came with his father, John Staley, to Salem township in 1831. In 1844 William Staley married Barbara Harshbarger, a daughter of Jonas and Hettie (Jacobs) Harshbarger and they had four children. In 1869 Oliver C. Staley married Anna Cargill, the latter of whom still lives and occupies the old homestead of 209 acres, situated on section 20 Salem township. The death of the father occurred in February, 1911. He was a representative citizen of this section, was a school teacher in his youth and later served in numerous township offices and for four years was county treasurer.

After his school days Roger W. Staley assisted his father on the home farm and later, with his older brother. Orrin C. Staley, took entire charge of it. The only heirs are the two sons. Mr. Staley is an energetic and progressive farmer and a well informed citizen. In 1900 lie began the breeding of draft horses and thoroughbred Duroc Jersey hogs and at the present time is one of the most active and successful breeders in his community.

who was born in Perry township, a daughter of Joseph and Ellen (Lindley) Inskeep, both now deceased. The other members of their family were : Nettie, wife of John Dingman ; Jerry; Minnie, wife of Dr. J. E. Johnston, of Piqua; Bertha, wife of John R. Bentley; Charles and Grace. To Mr. and Mrs. Staley two children have been born : Laird and Kenneth. Mr. Staley and family are members and supporters of the Baptist church at Sidney. They are hospitable people and have a wide circle of friends in this section. In politics Mr. Staley is a democrat as ha,re been the older members of the family for generations.

FRANK G. HENEISEN, who is a successful general farmer residing in Dinsmore township, where he owns 160 acres of very fine land, situated one and one-half miles southeast of Botkins, O., was born in 1879, in Van Buren township, Shelby county, and is a son of Martin and Ellen (Gibson) Heneisen.

Martin Heneisen, like many other well known and respected men of Shelby county, was born in Germany. He came to this section a young man and was married to Ellen Gibson, who was born in Shelby county. The following children were born to them: Catherine, who is the wife of George Smith and they live at Dayton, O. ; Joseph, who died young; Phillip, who died at the age of seventeen years; Rosa, who is the wife of Henry Sitzman, and they live at Botkins, O. ; Mary, who died at the age of eight years ; Martin, who is a soldier in the U. S. Army; Nora, who is a Catholic Sister in Mercer county, O. ; and Frank G., who was the third in order of birth.

Since his school days, Frank G. Heneisen has followed farming and stock raising, now owning the old homestead which he purchased from the other heirs. He is an enterprising and progressive agriculturist and understands how to make his industries profitable. Mr. Heneisen married Miss Louise Jakob, whose father was born in Germany and whose mother was born at Minster, O. She was one of the following family: Caroline, Anna, Edward, Antoinetta, Mayme, Frank, Louis, Rosa, Vincent, Frances, Urban and Louise. Mr. and Mrs. Heneisen are members of the Catholic church. Politically he is a democrat and possesses the confidence of his party, at present serving as central committeeman for Dinsmore township.

JACOB M. LE FEVRE. a highly respected retired farmer living at Port Jefferson, O., where he has a comfortable residence, owns also a fine farm of eighty acres situated in Salem township, Shelby county, O., and on that farm he was born. May 31, 1843. His parents were Henry Jackson and Elenore (Morgan) Le Fevre.

Henry Jackson Le Fevre was born in Warren county, O., and after marriage moved to Salem township, Shelby county, where he engaged in farming until his death, in 1848. After his decease his widow married Thomas Stewart. To her first marriage four children were born : Mary Jane, Morgan, Tacob M. and Henry J. To her second marriage three children were born : John M., Millard F. and Ansel M.

from farm work. He was five years old when his father died and when yet a hey worked for two years on a farm in Warren county. When the civil war broke out his step-father, a half brother, and two full brothers enlisted and Jacob M. then came back to the homestead and remained helping his mother until the close of the war and after her death purchased the property. He is a self made man, few advantages having been afforded him in youth, but in making his own way in the world he has found many friends and has won the confidence and approval of those with whom lie has had business relations. Mr. be Fevre was twice elected a trustee of Salem township, on the republican ticket, and also served usefully and efficiently as township supervisor and on the school board.

On December 20, 1866, Mr. Le Fevre was married to Miss Dulcinna Line, a daughter of. Solomon Line, of Terry township, the other members of the family being: Florence M.. Ella, Alice. Nancy. Esther and O. T. In Mr. and Mrs. Le Fevre the following children have been born: Edwin Justin. William O., James T.. Jennie. Alice, wife of Allen Baker, Minnie, wife of Lafe Vesper, Guernie, wife of Elza Baker, and Cora, wife of Sanford Retter. Mr. Le Fevre and family attend the Disciples church. He belongs to the Odd Fellows and attends lodge at Port Jefferson.

SAMUEL M. KNOOP, who is one of the trustees of Salem township, conducts a butcher shop at Port Jefferson, O., and also gives attention to his valuable farm of 120 acres, situated in Salem township. He was born in Orange township, Shelby count}-, O., April 21, 1869, and is a son of John and Margaret (Martin) Knoop. John Knoop, who still resides on his farm in Orange township, was born in Miami county, O., and is a well known and respected citizen. He was married first to Margaret Martin, who is deceased. She was the mother of the following children: Samuel M., Lee, John, William, and Dora, wife of George Leckey. Mr. Knoop's second marriage was with Celia Burton.

Samuel M. Knoop obtained his education in the public schools and from youth has been interested in farm pursuits. He carries on a general farming line on his property in Salem township, deals to some extent in stock, also bales hay and for the past two years has additionally been engaged in the meat business at Port Jefferson. Not only is be a man of business activitv and ability, but he is also one who has been recognized as trustworthy by his fellow citizens and as a member of the township board of trustees carries business methods into public matters to the advantage of all concerned.

In November, 1891, Mr. Knoop was married to Miss Laura Fergus, who was born in Shelby county and is a daughter of Joseph Fergus. Mr. and Mrs. Knoop have eight children, namely: Ralph, Clifford, Grace, Arvesta. Lloyd, Mary, Edna and John Joseph. The family attends the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a republican and fraternally is an Odd Fellow, attending the lodge of this order at Port Jefferson.

PHILLIP BONNORONT, whose excellent farm of ninety acres lies onequarter mile east of Botkins, O., in a favorable section of Dinsmore township, is one of the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of this section. He was born in 1870, in Shelby county, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Bierline) Bonnoront.

Jacob Bonnoront was born in Germany and for a number of years was engaged in business at Botkins, O. He married Elizabeth Bierline, who was of German ancestry but was born in Ohio, and ten children were born to them : George, Jacob, John, Peter, Christian, Catherine, Caroline, Elizabeth, Lena and Phillip. George married Mary Linker and they live at Botkins; Jacob married Sophia Kflopestein, who is deceased; John married Mary Kies, who is deceased, and lives in Dinsmore township; Peter lives at Wapakoneta, O., and married Dora Kaylor; Christian married Emma Seitz and they live at Botkins ; Catherine, who lives at Wapakoneta, is the widow of Frederick Alenbaugh; Caroline is the wife of Lawrence Thuman and they live in Auglaize county; Elizabeth, who is deceased, is survived by her husband, William Elsass; and Lena, who is the wife of William Boyer, lives in Dinsmore township.

Phillip Bonnoront attended the public schools and afterward engaged in business with his father at Botkins and later embarked in the same on his own account and continued there for nine years, after which he bought the farm on which he lives and here carries on general fanning and dairying. He made all the improvements here, which are excellent, fine substantial buildings with all necessary equipments, and all his operations are conducted along modern lines and with much success.

Mr. Bonnoront married Miss Elizabeth Schuman, a daughter of William and Barbara (Grau) Schuman, and they have three children: Gaylord, Corien and Helen. Mrs. Bonnoront had the following brothers and sisters : Caroline, who married John King, lives in Dinsmore township; George, who married Minnie Kentner, lives in Auglaize county; Louis, who married Louisa Ruck, lives in Auglaize county; William, who married Louise Elsass, lives in the same county; Henry, who married Anna Cooper, lives in Auglaize county; and Amelia, who married Christian Elsass, and they also live in Auglaize county. Mr. and Mrs. Bonnoront are members of the Lutheran church, of which he is treasurer and is also a deacon in the same. Politically he is a democrat but the only public office he has accepted is membership on the school board.

JOSEPH HUBER. whose valuable farm of 158 acres lies in Dinsmore township, adjoining the corporate limits of Botkins, on the north, is a representative citizen of this section and is something of a leader in democratic politics although never a seeker for political prominence. He was born in Auglaize county, O., in 185s, and is a son of Clement and Rosa (Weaver) Huber.

The parents of Mr. Huber were natives of Germany and they came to America in 1840, and lived for a time in Auglaize county, O., and afterward in Shelby county. There were eight children in the family, of whom Mary, Rosa and Matilda are deceased. Of the survivors: Catherine married Frederick Bauer and they live at Botkins. Theresa married Joseph Koenig and they live in Auglaize county. Elizabeth is a sister in a convent at St. Joseph, Missouri. Philomena also chose a religious life and is a sister in a convent at Phoenix. Arizona.

Joseph Huber was educated in the public and parochial schools and his occupation has always been farming. He received his property from his father's estate, which he has improved until it is one of the finest farms in this part of the county. Mr. Huber is a member of the Catholic church and for fourteen years has been treasurer of the same at Botkins. He is unmarried.

at Peinberton, O., and a dealer in coal and farm implements, is one of the well known business men of Shell)}' county. He was born in Miami county, O., May iQ. 1875, and is a son of Benjamin Franklin and Rachel Jane (Sanders) Simmons.

Benjamin Franklin Simmons and wife were born in Miami county and still reside there, well known and highly respected people, Mr. Simmons engaging in farming and stock raising. He is a democrat in his political views and he and wife are members and liberal supporters of the Christian church. The following children were born to them: Effie, who is deceased, was the wife of A. E. Wilson; Judson Ward: Harry E.. who married Daisy Miller: Frederick, who married Ella Lotz; and Charles, who married Guirtude Motter.

After leaving school, Judson W. Simmons turned his attention to assisting his father and remained on the farm until he was twenty years of age, when he accepted a position as manager of a grain elevator at Fletcher, O., for the Slauson Grain Company, of Picrua, and remained there for two years. He then leased the Robert Hasting elevator at Botkins, O., continued there for two years and then came to Pemberton and in 1900 purchased his present plant of M. D. Burke and has continuously been engaged here, sometimes alone and at others having partners, the firm style for a season being Simmons, Faulkner & Cook. Mr. Simmons finds time also to look after the management of his two farms, the one in Jackson township containing 100 acres, and the second farm, in Perry township, comprising 160 acres, all valuable property.

On October 20 , 1897. Mr. Simmons was married to Miss Minnie McKnight, a daughter of William J. and Mary J. McKnight. William J. McKnight is a fanner in Miami county. His first marriage was to a Miss Bull and they had three sons : Thomas J., William R. and Edward. To his second marriage the following children were born : Leota, Minnie, Lillian, wife of Oral Walburn, and all are residents of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Simmons have one daughter, Marjorie Aileen. They attend the Baptist church, Mr. Simmons being one of the church trustees. In his political affiliation he is a democrat and has always been an active citizen and his usefulness to his township has been more than once proved. He is no office seeker but has served two terms as township treasurer.

. FRANCIS MARION CLAYTON, who successfully operates his father's farm of 160 acres, situated in Perry township, belongs to old county families which have been leading ones of this section for many years. He was born in Jackson township, Shelby county, O., September 27, 1866, and is a son of Henry and Lucy ("Stewart) Clayton.

Henry Clayton and wife were born and reared in Shelby county and now live retired at Pemberton, O. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and their children were reared in this faith. They are five in number, as follows: Dora, who is the wife of Albert A. Bell; Francis Marion; Reuben Nelson; Elzina, who is the wife of Dr. Seth Rogers; and Merlie, who is the wife of Harley Weatherhead.

Francis M. Clayton obtained his education in the public schools and then engaged in farming until he was twenty-two years of age, after which, for five years, he was concerned in the manufacturing of tile at Jackson Center, as a member of the firm of Gross & Clayton. After selling his interest there, Mr. Clayton took charge of his father's farm and has continued here ever since. He carries on a general farming line and raises stock for his own use. Mr. Clayton has always been identified with the republican party but takes no active part in campaign work, his aim being to give support to those candidates who are best qualified to carry out the principles of government in which he believes.

On January 24, 1889. Mr. Clayton was married to Miss Luella Littlejohn, who was born in Shelby county, a daughter of George W. and Emily (Smith) Littlejohn. George W. Littlejohn is a retired farmer, was formerly postmaster at Jackson Center, O., and is a veteran of the Civil war, as is also the father of Mr. Clayton. To Mr. and Mrs. Littlejohn the following children were born: Harry; Denton; Luella; Ollie, wife of John H. Stahler; Orla; Charles; Eva, wife of L. P. Heintz; and Nellie, wife of Clyde Runvon. To Mr. and Mrs. Clayton four children have been born : Homer, Eunice, Hollis and Ralph, all surviving except Hollis. Mr. Clayton and family attend the Methodist Episcopal church at Pemberton.

ISAAC MITCHELL WILKINSON, who owns one of the best farms in Perry township, containing 124 acres, is one of the enterprising and progressive young agriculturists of this section. He was born at Pemberton. O., May 6, 1885, and is a son of Joseph and Dorcas Ann (Lilley) Wilkinson.

Joseph Wilkinson followed agricultural industries throughout his entire life, accumulated a competency and was known as a man of sterling character. He was a member of the Baptist church and at death his burial was in Cedar Poin* cemetery in Perry township. His first marriage was to Louisa Nutt and she was survived by two children : Anna and Nellie, the latter being the wife of W. E. Meyers. His second marriage was to Dorcas Ann Lilley,

Nts Alkxis Kshman And Representative Citizens 749

Isaac Mitchell Wilkinson, after completing the common school course, became actively interested in farming, taking possession of the ninety-three acres which he inherited and adding thirty-three acres which he purchased from G. H. Monroe. He has inaugurated many substantial improvements on his place and is justified in feeling proud of its appearance and of the productiveness of his land under his intelligent methods of cultivation.

In 1909 Mr. Wilkinson was married to Miss Tima Faye Halboth, a daughter of J. A. and Emma B. (Baughman) Halboth, the father of Mrs. Wilkinson being a merchant at Pemberton, O. She has one brother, Clay B. Mr. and Mrs. Wilkinson have an engaging little daughter, Ruth Elizabeth. They attend the Baptist church. As was his father, Mr. Wilkinson is a republican in politics, and fraternally he is identified with the Masonic lodge at Port Jefferson, O.

R. M. TOLAXD, whose well improved farm lies one mile north of Anna, O., where he owns sixty-seven acres, situated in Dinsmore township, Shelby county, was born in this county, in 1844, and is a son of E. B. and Nancy Toland. E. B. Toland was born in Virginia, and his second wife, the mother of R. M. Toland, was a native of Ohio. By two marriages E. B. Toland became the father of fifteen children, the survivors of his first union being: John, Anna and Nancy, and of his second: Robert M., Alfred, George. James, Charles, Susanna and Martha. Prior to 1833 Mr. Toland followed farming in Miami county, O.. and afterward in Shelby county, where he spent the rest of his life.

R. M. Toland worked on his father's farm until he was seventeen years of age and then enlisted for service in the Civil war and for three years performed every duty, dangerous or otherwise, that was assigned him. His first captain was J. C. Frey, of Sidney, O., and under his leadership Mr. Toland took part in the battles of Fort Donelson and Shiloh and many others equally serious, and was honorably discharged. Since the close of his military service he has followed an agricultural life and is numbered with the prosperous farmers of Dinsmore township.

Mr. Toland married Miss Hannah Elliott, a daughter of Samuel Elliott, and they have four children: Nellie, Clarence, Claude and Virgil, all living at home except Clarence, who is a resident of Piqua. O. Mr. Toland and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In his political views he is a republican.

HON. IRENUS ALEXIS ESHMAN, probate judge of Shelby county. O., and an honored resident and leading member of the Sidney bar, was born September 5, 1870, on his father's farm in Loramie township, Shelby county, O., and is a son of Francis J. and Margaret (Chaivre) Eshman.

he had received his honorable discharge, in 1842 he came to America. His first home in the United States was at Massillon, O., and from there he moved to Detroit, Mich., and in March, 1865, came to Shelby county, and purchased a farm in Loramie township on which he lived during the remainder of his life, his death occurring in June, 1888, at the age of seventy-five years. He married Margaret Chaivre, who was born in the province of Alsace, France, and was a daughter of Louis and Margaret (Otill) Chaivre, who became residents of Detroit, Mich., after coming to the United States. In St. Ann's cathedral, in that city, she was united in marriage, in 1849, with Francis J. Eshman, and they became the parents of eleven children. Mary became the wife of Xavier Eshman of Loramie township. Margaret was the wife of Irenus De Broff, of McLean township, Shelby county. Frances, now deceased, was the wife of Joseph Rousiau of Versailles. Joseph, Odill and perhaps another died in infancy. Frank died in 1892, unmarried. Caroline is the wife of Sylvester Gigandet and they reside on a farm west of Sidney, O. Eugenia was the next in order of birth. Julia, who is now deceased, was the wife of Louis Piquignot, of Versailles, O. The youngest member of the family was Irenus Alexis. The mother died in May, 1897, being then sixtyeight years of age.

Irenus Alexis Eshman attended the public schools of Loramie township and the Versailles high school and later the Lebanon normal school, after which he studied law under Hon. George Marshall until 1895. From 1899 until 1902 he taught school but as far back as 1894 became identified with educational matters, being then appointed a member of the board of school examiners and served in that capacity for six years. From 1902 until 1905 he was connected with the law office of Charles Marshall at Sidney, and in the latter year was first elected to the bench, and in 1912 re-elected, his earlier judicial record having been eminently satisfactory to his party and fellow citizens. Some cases have been carried to the supreme court, but so far none of his decisions have ever been reversed. He is a stanch democrat and has been active in politics since he reached manhood and in November, 1892, when only twenty-one years of age, was elected a justice of the peace. Although, as stated above, a strong party man, he is personally popular and in the election of 1905, in one precinct in which there are 106 normal votes, he received 104 of these, showing great public sentiment in his favor.

Judge Eshman was married in 1896 to Miss Margaret Guilliott, a daughter of Henry and Leona (Larmanie) Guilliott, and the following children have been born to them : Raymond, Irenus, Francis, Robert, Margaret. Florence, James, Rosemary, Henrietta, Lawrence and Virginia, several of whom died in infancy. Judge Eshman and family are members of the Roman Catholic church. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Columbus, the Elks and the Eagles.

DAVID R. KEY, whose fine farm of 122 acres lies in Perry township and adjoins the old homestead on which he was born in October, 1858, is one of the well-known men of this section and a representative of one of the old and sturdy families of Shelby county. He is a son of John and Anna (Rhinehart) Key and a grandson of John Key. Grandfather Key was born in Virginia in 1 781 and about 1800 came to Ohio, settling in Montgomery county, where he died fifteen years later. He left a widow and five children, a son, John, being born six months after his death.

John Key, father of David R. Key, was born in Montgomery county, O., in 1816 and remained in Montgomery county with his mother until 1836 and then came to Shelby county, but returned to Montgomery county one year later and lived there until 1840, when he again came to Shelby count}' and rented land for several years, saving his money and then buying more land. He had but fifty dollars when he came here the first time, and this money he invested in land, entering forty acres in Jackson township and later, through industry, thrift and good judgment, securing the means to enter 160 acres in Indiana. That land he subsequently traded for eighty acres in Shelby county and to that tract he later added until his farm contained 240 acres. He improved all that land together with 300 acres in Perry township, 140 acres in Champaign county, and also acquired realty at Sidney and Millerstown. He at one time owned 983 acres in this and Champaign county. His first marriage was in 1841, to Lillie Lucas, who, at death, left two sons: John H. and Norman. In 1847 he married Anna Rhinehart for his second wife and seven children were born to them: Amanda, Rachel, Elizabeth, Jane, David R.. Sherman and Orlando B.

David R. Key attended the district schools through boyhood and then assisted his father and thus gained a very practical knowledge of farming. He has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits and for some years in the past dealt in stock but now confines himself to a general farming line and the raising of stock for home use only.

In 1883 Mr. Key was married to Miss Maggie M. Heffner, a daughter of William and Sarah (Sargent) Heffner. The father of Mrs. Key was a soldier in the Civil war and there lost his life, and her mother died while she was a child. The other members of her parents' family were: Mary, wife of William McLean; Jasel, deceased; David L. ; George and William, Mrs, Key being the youngest of the family. To Mr. and Mrs. Key four children have been born: Grace, who is the wife of L. E. Ranck; Mary Robinson; and Maurice H., who are twins; and Laura Murriel. The family attends the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Key is a republican in politics but has never been willing to accept public office.

COL. JAMES B. TUCKER, a prominent citizen of Sidney, O., and one of the city's leading manufacturers, is president, treasurer and general manager of the Tucker Woodwork Company, one of the largest business enterprises of this section. He is a native of Kentucky, a son of Thomas M. and Mary B. Tucker, the paternal line belonging to Southern Indiana and the maternal to Kentucky.

Colonel Tucker received his primary education in private schools and when he reached the proper age, entered DePauw University at Greencastl?,