Summit County, Ohio - Chapter 20: Statistics, 1908 (part 14 of 27)

Andrew Fenn Richey remained on the home farm until 1887, attending the local schools through boyhood, and worked for his father until 1897. He then purchased sixtyone acres of his present farm, to which he later added fifty acres, all of which he cultivates, together with land that he rents. He keeps twenty cows, making a specialty of dairying and in this industry follows the example of Reverend Deitrich, a Moravian preacher, whose Pennsylvania farm is declared by the United States Department of Agriculture to be the model farm of the country. He keeps his cows in the barn, in sanitary condition, and carries green food to them. He ships his milk to Cleveland. He devotes twenty-five acres to wheat, eighteen to potatoes and has three acres in fruit trees. Mr. Richey has made a scientific study of his various industries and can but be pleased with the application of the principles he has adopted.

Mr. Richey married Chloe M. Mack, who is a daughter of John Mack, of Antrim, Guernsey County, Ohio, and they have three children : Andrew Lawrence, George Grant and Ralph Stuart. Mr. and Mrs. Richey are members of the United Presbvterian Church.

FREEMAN W. STROH, a leading citizen of Barberton and closely identified with many of its interests, is senior member of the prominent lumber firm of Stroh and Millis, which firm owns an extensive lumber yard and a finely equipped planing mill at this point. He is also largely interested in the real estate business. Mr. Stroh was born in DeKalb County, Indiana, September 9, 1864, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Mottinger) Stroh.

Henry Stroh, father of Freeman W., resided formerly at Greensburg, Ohio, where he followed shoemaking in his earlier years, but after moving to Indiana, he confined himself to agricultural pursuits. It was on his father's farm that Freeman W. Stroh was reared, and there he remained until twenty-four years of age, in the meantime securing a good, common school education in the country schools. Following his mai'riage he farmed for his father-in-law, near Massillon, Ohio, for two years, meetiiig with success in that industry. He was, however, a natural born mechanic and had never been quite satisfied with raising grain and stock, the constant trend of his mind being in the direction of machinery and the improvement of the same, his spare time all being given to inventions along this line. He therefore moved from the farm into Massillon and after securing several patents on his "brain children," he made up his mind that the most sensible and satisfactory plan would be to enter a machine or foundry business, where his talents could have full play. This state of affairs was soon brought about and for some time prior to 1893, when he came to Barberton, he was engaged in the manufacturing of sawmill machinery, and carrying on a foundry business.

When Mr. Stroh came first to Barberton, he was associated with his brother-in-law, Jacob Milton Mcintosh, in operating a foundry for the manufacture of saw mill and wood-working machinery, under the firm name of Stroh-Mclntosh Company. The prospects were liright, but the business, had been but fairly started when a fire destroyed the factory, entailing great financial loss. Mr.

Stroh, however, is not a man who is easily discouraged, and within sixty days he had started in the turning business, having secured a small factory, where he turned out moldings and interior tinishings. He had bought the ground, the same on which his present buildings and yards are located, and during the three years in which he continued alone, he kept increasing his facilities and adding to his buildings until he commanded a trade of large proportions.

After three years' work alone, in the turning business, Mr. Stroh went into partnership with Jacob E. Millis, and the firm style became the Stroh and Millis Company. They now operate a large, thoroughly equipped planing mill, having twenty-eight different machines, and manufacture all kinds of outside as well as inside furnishings for buildings and in addition make doors, sash and showcases. Regular employment is given twelve experienced workmen, and this is a flourishing industrj' of Barberton, its success being mainly due to Mr. Stroh's energy and enterprise.

On January 15, 1889, Mr. Stroh was married to Cora Alice McInto.?h, who was born near Massillon, Ohio, and they have two children, a son and daughter: Lillian Blanche and Byron Freeman. Mr. Stroh and family belong to the First Methodist Episcopal Church, at Barberton. He is a member of the Junior Order of American Mechanics. Mr. Stroh has always believed in the educational value of useful work and in his own case has proven how sure are the rewards of industry and perseverance along the line of one's natural gifts.

J. IRA EMMETT, has resided on the old Emmett homestead in Springfield Township, for the past twenty years, the valuable farm of 125 acres, on which his grandfather settled in 1832. Mr. Emmett was born on the farm on which he lives, September 15, 1856, and is a son of Franklin and Mary A (Chamberlin) Enimett.

There is not a schoolboy in America who has not sympathized with and longed to emulate the deeds of the Irish patriot, Robert Emmett, and undoubtedly from the same stock came the progenitors of the Emmett family in Summit County. Three brothers of the name came from the north of Ireland to America, in colonial days, separating after reaching these shores, one going South, one settling in the Susquehannah _ Valley, in Pennsylvania, and later, a branch of the family was found in Illinois, and another in New York. In the main they all possess the same sterling traits which have made of them good citizens and valuable members of society.

The paternal grandparents of J. Ira Emmett were William and Mary (McBride) Emmett, the former of whom was a son of William Emmett, who was of American birth. The grandmother was a native of Columbia County, Pennsylvania. William and Mary Emmett had four children : Franklin ; John, who resides in Tallmadge Township, aged seventy years ; Mercy Jane, who died aged ten years; and a babe that died in infancy. Franklin Emmett, father of J. Ira, was born in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, June 21, 1832, and accompanied his parents to Ohio, they settling in Springfield Township, Summit County in his childhood. In 1851, he married Mary A. Chamberlin, who was born in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, in August, 1829. She was a daughter of Joseph and Agnes (Deal) Chamberlin, and a granddaughter of William Chamberlin, who was born in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, September 25, 1736.

This ancestor was a man of great prominence during the Revolutionary War, in which he served as lieutenant-colonel of the Second Regiment under Col. David Chambers, his commission bearing the date of September 9, 1777. In November of that same year, he was ordered by Governor Livingston of New Jersey, to call on Messrs. Penn and Chew, at the Union Iron Works and conduct them to Worchester, Massachusetts, and to deliver them to the council of that State, and he was also directed to purchase in Connecticut or Massachusetts Bav, 20,000 flints for the counoil of New Jersey. He participated in the battle of Monmouth, June 28, 1778, in which his eldest son, Lewis, was killed by a cannon ball. In 1793 he moved into Buffalo Valley, and on August 16, 1794, he married his fourth wife, Mary Kemble. He wa.-^ the father of twentj'-three children, fifteen of these having been born in New Jersey. The children born to his last marriage were: John, James, Lewis, Mary Frances, who married John Linn, Joseph Park, James D. and Moses.

Joseph Chamberlin married Agnes Deal and they came to Uniontown in 1832, from Columbia County, Pennsylvania, and bought land in Springfield Township. -Joseph and Agnes Chamberlin had eight children, as follows: Mary Ann, who married Frank Emmett; Sarah, who married Benjamin Chisnel, both died in Green Township; Rebecca, who married Daniel Zeisloft, a native of Pennsylvania, who is eighty-one years of age and has survived her since 1902; Francis L., residing at Tallmadge; William, residing in Kent, married Mary Barker; John, deceased, married Elizabeth AVise; and Lewis, deceased, married Mary Hageman. There were but two children born to Franklin and Mary A. (Chamberlin) Emmett, namely: William J. and J. Ira. William J. Enuuett, residing at Tallmadge, is a traveling salesman for the Russell Manufacturing Company of Massillon. He married Belle G. Treat, who is a daughter of Stanley Treat, and they have three sons: Homer I., Stanley T. and James.

J. Ira Emmett was reared on the old homestead and first attended the di.strict schools in the neighborhood, later becoming a student in the Tallmadge High School and Academy, the family having moved into Tallmadge Townshij) in 1861. After the death of hi,< parents, and his own marriage, Mr. Emmett returned to the old family farm, and here he has continued to live ever since. He has made many improvements and he and family enjoy every comfort to be found in a well regulated rural home. He carries on a general line of agriculture, and has other farm interests outside the old homestead.

On March 3, 1887, Mr. Emmett was married to Mary F. Moore, who ls a daughter of Oliver C. and Marion (Golden) Moore, formerly of Richfield township. Summit County, Ohio. Both Mr. and Mrs. Moore were born in Summit County, where the former died, in February, 1907, at the age of seventy-three years. Mrs. Moore still survives, aged sixtyseven years. They had two children, namely: Mary F., who became Mrs. Emmett, and Ella, who married Frank Converse. Mrs. Emmett is a graduate of the Akron High School and is a lady of superior educational attainments. Prior to her marriage she taught in the public schools of Summit County and later became the principal of the Tallmadge High School.

Mr. and Mrs. Emmett have two children. Iris M. and Frank Moore, the former of whom is a student in Buchtel Academy, and the latter in the public schools of Springfield Town- . ship.

Politically, Mr. Ennnett Ls identified with the Republican party and on numerous occasions he has been elected to township offices, although he has never solicited the same. He has served as a luember of the Summit County Republican E.xecutive Committee and has been interested in public affairs to a considerable extent, ever since he was twentyone years of age. For a period of six years he served as township trustee, and at present is serving both as township clerk and as clerk of the School Board. Plaving the financial standing as well as the personal qualifications of a representative citizen, Mr. Emmett is naturally frequently consulted concerning public movements calculated to advance the interests of his community, and he is never found unwilling to contribute liberally when the objects meet with his approval. In fraternal life, Mr. Emmett has long been a memlier of the order of Odd Fellows. He was one of the early members of the Patrons of Husbandry in this section, being fully in sympathy with the Grange movement. With his family he belongs to the Pre.'^bvterian Church of Springfield. '

WILLIAM H. WINTER, justice of the peace, president of the Barberton Business Men's Association, and president of the Norton Mutual Fire Association, is a busy and prominent citizen of Barberton. Mr. Winter was born m Holmes County, Ohio, March 19, 1858. and is a son of Daniel and Catherine (Sonnner) Winter.

The father of Mr. Winter was born in Pennsylvania, and was a son of Joseph Winter, the latter of whom died in Pennsylvania. Daniel Winter came to Holmes County, Ohio, in 1850, and in 1852 was married to Catherine Sommer, who was born in Holmes County, and was a daughter of Joseph Sommer, a miller, who was an early settler there. In 1868 Daniel W^inter and family move to Wayne County, Ohio.

William H. Winter attended the public schools both in Holmes and Wayne Counties, beginning when he was only three and onehalf years of age, the school-house at that time being located on his father's farm. Later, he attended the Smithville Academy, and when eighteen years of age, entered the Urbana High School. After completing his own education, Mr. Winter became a teacher, and for twenty-six years he continued to teach, during ten years of the period in N(U'ton Township, Summit County, two years in the West Barberton school, and also near W^ooster, in Wayne County, and ended his long and successful educational career, by teaching a term in District No. 9, Coventry Township, Summit County. In 1893, he removed from Wayne County to Norton Township, Summit County. In 1905, when elected to the office of justice of the peace, he quit teaching, but continued to reside on his farm of fifty-seven acres in Norton Township, until February, 1906, when he established his home at Barberton.

In January, 1907, Mr. AVinter, embarked in a grocery business at Barberton, in partner- .«hip with F. E. Barns. They carry a ver\' complete and well assorted stock, and are centrally located at No. 1021 Wooster Avenue. In March, 1907, Mr. Winter was shown the confidence his fellow-citizens feel in him, bv his election to the presidency of the Barberton Business Men's Association, an organization of commercial importance here. The other officers of the association are: E. J. Quigley, vice president; J. W. Rider, secretary and J. H. Miller, treasurer. The Norton Mutual Fire Association was organized in 1872, and Mr. AVinter has been its president since 1899. It is in a very prosperous condition and its area of risks covers about nine townships.

In 1883, Mr. Winter was married to Sarah E. Orr, who is a daughter of Thomas B. and Elizabeth Orr. Mr. Winter is an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Barberton and is superintendent of the Sunday school.

LORIN BLISS, township treasurer of Northfield Township, is a prominent citizen and representative agriculturist of this section, and was born in Summit County, Ohio, November 18, 1842. He is a son of Ambrose Williams and Emeline (Palmer) Bliss.

Both the Bliss and Palmer families were early settlers in New England, and both have contributed largely to the country's prominent men in various walks of life. The father of Lorin BlLss was born at Jericho, Chittenden County, Vermont, December 6, 1806. He was a carpenter and builder and in that capacity he came to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1833, -to accept work on the public improvements then in progress at Cleveland and Black River, as Lorain was then called. Later he worked on the Ohio canal and built many l)ridges, locks and gates. He soon began to invest in land, and at the time of his death owned 240 acres, all of which he had accumulated by his own industry. He was a man of sterling character, one of whom his descendants can refer with pride and affection. His death took place when over eight y-.scven years of age.

Ambrose Williams Bliss was married May 9, 1839, to Emeline Palmer, who was born at AVindsor, Connecticut, April 5, 1815. They had four children: Ellen, Lorin, George and Horace. Ellen, who resides in the old home, acted as township historian for the Western Reserve Historical Society, in the preparation of the work on "Pioneer Women of the Western Reserve." George, resides in Northfield Townshij). Horace, died February 20, 1863, from disease contracted while serving as a soldier in the Civil War. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company C, 115th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Ambrose AV. Bliss served in many public offices. He was township trustee, for some years was a justice of the peace, and from 1854 until 1860, he served as county commissioner of Summit County. He was an almost life-long member of the American Bible Society. Politically, he was strong in his support of the Republican party. He was one of the contractors of the Cleveland, Zanesville & Cincinnati Railroad. Hi.s brother, Hon. George Bliss, was once presiding judge of the Third Judicial District of Ohio. From 1852 to 1854. he represented the 18th Congressional District, in Congres.s.

Lorin Bliss was educated in the district schools of Northfield Township and remained on tbe home farm until his marriage, in 1878, when he purchased the place on which he lives. He remodeled the residence and made additions to the other biiildings. He carries on mixed farming, cultivating fifty of his eighty-five acres, raising hay, corn, wheat, potatoes and oats and keeping from twelve to fourteen head of cattle.

Mr. Bliss married Mary Emeline Wallace, who is a daughter of James W. Wallace, of Northfield. Mrs. Bliss is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bliss was reared in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been a trustee and a steward. He takes a great deal of interest in the Sunday-school, of which he has been superintendent'.

Politically a Republican, he has been elected township trustee on two occasions by that party, and has also served as township clerk and supervisor. Prior to the disbanding of the Northfield Grange, he was a member and supporter, and he was identified with and a hearty worker in the order of Good Templars.

HENRY H. WEIMER, a leading agriculturist and prominent citizen of Springfield Township, who owns an excellent farm of seventy acres, was born November 23, 1849, at Mar.shallville, Wayne County, Ohio, and is a son of Adam and Lydia (Keiffer) Weimer.

Barnhart Weimer, the grandfather of Henry H., married a Miss Zimmerman, and both died in Germany. Barnhart was in the army and crossed the Alps with Napoleon's army. Their children were: Barnhart; Jacob; Martin, who married Susan Mercer; Adam ; Frederick, who married a Miss Fetzer; and Margaret, who married Jacob Boughman. Of this family, Martin, Adam, Frederick and Margaret came to America and all settled in AVayne County, Ohio, Martin being the first to locate there.

Adam AA'^eimer, the father of Henry H., was born in 1824, in Germany, and came to this country about 1840. He was a tailor by trade and worked at Uniontown and at Columbus prior to his marriage, following which he moved to Easton, AAXvne County, where he continued tailoring until 1853. In this year Mr. AA'^eimer purchased a farm, on which the remainder of his life was spent, his death occurring September 17, 1905, at which time he was rated one of the substantial men of his community, his property consisting of 372 acres of land. Adam Weimer was married to Lydia Keiff'er, who w^as born near Marshallville. AA^ayne County, Ohio, and they had nine children : Henry H. ; Annie Maria, who married Solomon Gerbrick, a resident of AVooster, AA^ayne County; Barbara, who is deceased; Maggie, Who married John Tyler, who resides near Sterling, AVayne County; Albert; AVilliam; Eli, who married Annie St. Clair, resides near Smithville, AVayne County; Daniel; and AA%«ley, who resides near AA^ooster, married (first) Cora Oiler, and (secfind) Violet Aletzor. All of these children, with the exception of Henry H., are residents of AA^ayne County.

a meat market business until his marriage, at which time he settled on the farm of his father-in-law, Peter Hile. For the past sixteen years he has been operating his present farm, a tract of seventy acres in Springfield Township, where he carries on general farming. In 1903 he erected hLs fine residence, and in 1905, a large, substantial barn. Mr. ^\^eime^ is an up-to-date, practical agriculturist, keeping himself well abreast of all new movements and methods in farming by his membershij) in the local Grange. He has been a resident of Springfield Township for thirtyrone years, while his wife, who was born in the township, has lived here all of her life. On December 26, 1878, Mr. Weimer was married to Sarah L. Hile, who is a daughter of Peter and Olive (Boyd) Hile. Peter Hile, whose mother had died when he was but ten days old, came as a boy from Pennsylvania to Ohio, with his brother, Jacob Hile, and settled in Norton Township. . For seventy years lie was a resident of Summit County, and his death occurred February 16, 1905, in his eightieth year, on the farm on which his widow now resides, where .<he has lived since 1855. Peter Hile married Olive Boyd, who is a daughter of Andrew and Roxie (Atwood) Boyd, the former of whom is a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Connecticut. Ten children were born to Andrew Boyd and wife: Ichabod, who was twice married, (first) to a Miss Clark, who died on Lake Erie, east of Cleveland ; Olive, who is the mother of Mrs. Weimer; Urias, who died in California; Mary, who married Ross TJiomas; Emma, who married Frank Proctor, resided for a number of years at Mantua, from whence she removed to California, where her husband died; and five children who died in infancy. Two children were born to Peter and Olive (Boyd) Hile, namely: Sarah L. and Emily. The latter married Quincy Monroe. They resided for five years in Suflneld Township, then moved to Tennes.see and sub.sequently to Texas, and for tlie past fifteen years have lived in Oklahoma. They have had eight children, six of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. Hile were members of the Mogadore Church of Chri.st.

Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Henry H. Weimer, namely: Elmer and Irwin, who make their home with their parents; and Frank, who died September 17, 1905, aged sixteen years, five months. They belong to the Church of Chri.st, at East Akron.

FREDERICK RIES, whose beautiful" farm of 114 acres lies just ea.st of Johnson's Coiners, has resided here for almost a half century and its excellent condition is due to his 'industry and careful management. Mr. Ries was born in Prussia-Germany, March 24, 1830, and is a son of Christian and Mary Ries.

Although Mr. Ries has developed into an excellent farmer, he was not reared as one. After he had completed his schooling he went to work in a coal bank, with which his father was connected as an outside boss, and he thus continued mining until he was nineteen years of age, when he decided to follow his brothers to America. In July, 1849, he left home for the great country acro.ss the water, and, as far as we have been informed, although his thoughts have often gone backward, he has never returned to his native land. The vessel on which he sailed was not a great turbine-wheel mistress of the sea, which takes but four days to cover the distance between Europe and America, but a sailing ship that was on the water forty-nine days before sighting land. Landing at New York he joined his two brothers in Iowa, where he worked for two years in the lead mines, after which he settled in Chippewa Township, Wayne County. There he and his brother, Paul Ries, operated a coal bank. In 1855 he was married, and continued to run the coal bank for five years longer, and then came to the farm on which he has lived ever since. Mr. Ries has retired from active work and rents the farm, but stilt retains his comfortable home here. Through hard work and persistent effort he has gained an ample fortune which he and his estimable wife can enjoy in their evening of life.

Kleiu, who was also bori) in Gerniauy, but settled in Ohio before the birth of Mrs. Ries. To this marriage thirteen children were born, as follows: Charles, deceased at three weeks; Frederick, who is married and lives at Johnson's Corners; Jacob, married, also lives at the Corners; Emma died aged three years, two months; John, who is married, lives in Indiana; George; Ella, who married Bert Haines; Mary, who died at eleven months; Christian, residing at home; Arthur, married, who lives at Johnson's Corners; Harry, deceased at six weeks; Minnie, who married Andrew Backdur; and Edward.

Mr. Ries, as one of the township's representative men, has served in public office at various times and has been a valuable member of the School Board and an efficient road supervisor. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

HENRY L. AVAGONER, a leading citizen of Springfield Township, has been postma.'stc'r ait Knimroy for the past twenty-seven year.s and has been identified with the growth and development of the village. He was born near Manchester, in Franklin Tow-nship, Summit County, Ohio, March, 8, 1827, and is a son of George and Rebecca (Sowers") Wagoner.

George Wagoner was born in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, in 1795, and came to Summit County with his parents, in 1812. His father was Henry Wagoner. George Wagoner was married first in Pennsylvania, his second marriege being to Rebecca Sowers. He entered 160 acres of land which Henry L. assisted to clear. He died in 1874, and was survived some fifteen years by his widow. They had a family of ten children. a.s follows: Catherine, who married Philip Houseman, both died in Indiana; Sarah, who married Aaron Baughman, both died in Norton Township ; Henry L. ; Philip, who was formerly county commi.s.sioner of Summit County, married Hannah Haney; John Jacob, who married Catherine Weaver, resides in Summit County; PTarriet, who married Michael Harpsrter, is a widow residing at Akron ; Anna Rebecca, deceased, married (first) Jacob Becker and (second) David Keller; Amanda, who is the widow of John Spangler, who died in the spring of 1907, lives in Franklin Township; and Aaron, who married Amanda Smith, resides on River Avenue, Akron.

Henry L. Wagoner obtained his education in the subscription schools, and continued to assist has father in clearing and developing his land until he reached manhood, in the meanwhile learning the trade of shoemaker. In the early days of the great Rebellion, Mr. Wagoner enlisted for army sei'vice, entering Company A, Second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in 1861, selecting the cavalry on account of being accustomed to horses and with an idea thait he could better stand the hardships he knew were ahead of him. His health broke down, however, and in 1862, he was discharged at Fort Scott, on account of disability. He continued to farm for the next five years and then applied himself exclusively - to work at his trade until February, 1880, when he came to Krumroy.

At this time the first trains were running over the Cleveland, Tennessee & Valley Railrqad and Mr. Wagoner was made the first agent for the road at this point. In the same year he was appointed j^ostmaster, an office he has held ever since, notwithstanding changes in the administration. There are few as capable officials in the public service who have reached the age of Mr. Wagoner, who is now eighty years old, and there are also few who possess his hearty health and prolonged vigor. He can recall many interesting events concerned with the developing of this section, and remembers when the busy city of Akron was but a straggling village. He has spent his whole life in Franklin and Springfield Townships and is known all over Summit County. At the time of his birth this section was still included in Stark County.

On January 24. 1850, Mr. Wagoner was married to Sarah Ritter, who is a daughter of Isaac and Margaret Ritter. Her people came to Stark County at an early day and settled near Massillon, where her grandfather purchased a section of land, making a liome in the wagon for his family until he could construct a log house in the forest. They were old and lionored pioneers. Mrs. Wagoner was reared in Green Township. Mr. and Mrs. Wagoner have had the following children : Elnora, who married ^I. J. Rodenbaugh, resides at Thomastown and they have three children, Burt, Mabel, wife of Thoniiis Stahl, of Peninsula, Ohio, and Harvey, a merchant at Akron; Lodie, who married (first) Emanuel Hubler and (second) Michael Benningham, is deceased; John Riley died aged three years; Margaret Ann died aged seven years; Amelia, died in infancy, and Isaac Hamlin, resides at Akron.

Mr. Wagoner has always been actively interested in politics and has been a stanch supporter of the Republican party ever since its formation. He has voted for every one of its Presidential candidates from .John C. Fremont to Theodore Roosevelt. He is a member of Buckley Post, G. A. R., at Akron. In many ways. Mr. ^Vagoner is a remarkable man, and is a worthy representative of the sturdy old pioneer family from which he came, possessing not only their robust constitution, but also many of the qualities which made friendships enduring in those days, and honesty and integrity words full of meaning.

ADAM J. FULMER. who was a leading citizen and successful agriculturist of Springfield Township, for many years, was born in Green Township, Summit County, Ohio, October 20, 1846, and died on his beautiful farm in Springfield Township. October 28, 1905, at the age of fifty-nine years. His parents were Adam and Christina (Bettler) Fulmer.

Both parents of .Vdain J. Fulmer were born in Germany and in 1833 they accompanied their parents to Stark County, Ohio, where the latter died. After the. marriage of Adam and Christina Fulmer, they moved to Green Township and later to Springfield Township, and both died at Brittain, where they were living retired. They had a family that consisted of three sons and four daughters: Jacob. Daniel. Adam J., Catherine. Margaret.

Melvina and Charlotta. Of the above family, Jacob is deceased. Daniel married Melvina Baughman. Catherine married Daniel Hawk and they reside in Tallmadge Township. Margaret married Jonathan Weaver and they reside in Portage County. Melvina married "S'incent Wagner and they live at Cuyahoga Falls, while Charlotta married Joseph Guiley and they reside in Tallmadge.

Adam J. Fulmer was reared on the home farm and attended the district schools in the neighborhood of his home. He accompanied his parents to Brittain when they settled in the village, but shortlj' after his marriage, in 18S1, he settled on the place which continued to be his home for the rest of his life. His first purchase w^as of 100 acres, to which he subsequently added the second 100, making the present acreage, and here he carried on general farming for many years, paying .particular attention to growing wheat. He was a man of persistent industry and was greatly interested in improving his property, erecting at various times the fine residence and other substantial buildings which add greatly to the value of an already valuable property. Since February, 1906, there have been three oil wells in operation on the farm, all being fine jiroducers. Mr. Fulmer also owned valuable lots in Akron, having accumulated all his projierty through prudence, good management and industry.

On January 4, 1881, Adam J. Fulmer was married to Mary Ruth, who is a daughter of Charles and Catherine (Vogelman) Ruth, both of whom were born in Germany, the father in 1822 and the mother in 1823. After marriage Charles Ruth and wife settled in Oneida County, New York. Mrs. Ruth died in 1890. and Mr. Ruth six years later. They had four children, namely: Mrs. Fulmer; Louisa, residing with her sister; Lena, residing at Akron, married Cyrus Swinehart, a contractor in that city; and Charles, who conducts a meat business at Utica, New York. He married Lillian Mvers, of Rome, New York.

and Mary l-Iutli. The former operates tlu' home farm in a very capable manner. He is a young man of talent and education, having graduated at the University of Michigan, in the class of 1905. Miss Mary Ruth is a graduate of the Akron High School and is a student in the freshman year at Buchtel College.

In the death of Adam J. Fulmer, Springfield Township lost a citizen of more than usual worth, for he was a man of sterling character and one whose acts in every phase of life were governed by right motives. He was a man of very practical ideas and he won tlie respect of those with whom he came into contact either in a business or social way. During all his mature life he was stanch in his adherence to the.principlas of the Democratic party, by which he was frequently elected to local offices and in performing the duties of these he displayed public spirit as well as efficiency. He was long a useful member of the School Board and served both as supervisor and as township trustee.

LOUIS SCflOTT. a leading citizen of Springfield Township, who has owned and operated what was known as Tritt's mill, since 1890, was born in Grevesmuhlen, Germany, where his parents both died in 1860, victims of small-pox.

Mr. Schott was reai-ed by his grandfather until the latter's death, when he went to live with strangers. He attended school until he was fourteen years of age, according to the excellent German law, and then learned the milling trade, which he has followed ever since. In 1882 he came to America and located at Akron, where he was in the employ of F. Schumacher, and others, for about seven years, and then bought what was known as Tritt's mill. This mill was built in 1836, by the grandfather of Brewster Brothers, who are business men of high standing in Summit County, and it has been in continuous operation ever since. Joseph Tritt bought the mill from Mr. Brewster, and operated it until he sold it to David Brumbaugh, who subsequently sold it to Mr. Elderkin, who assigned it to the man from whom Mr. Schott purchased, in 1890. Since taking possession he has practically rebuilt the mill, putting in new power and making many practical and substantial improvements. It is what is known as a general custom mill, with capacity of twenty-five barrels, and Mr. Schott makes both white and rye flour, together with all kinds of feed. He has constant patronage and does a very large Inisine.ss. Mr. Schott has always been very industrious, careful and frugal, and has made his own way honestly and fairly, without asking aid from any one.

In 1883 Mr. Schott was married to Louisa Schultz, of Akron, who is a daughter of the late George Schultz. Her mother still survives. Mt. and Mrs. Schott have had twelve children, namely: Hans, who died in young manhood, in 1905; Louis, who is a telegraph operator for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad ; Helena, who is a stenographer for the Board Manufacturing Company, of Akron ; Charles, who as.sists his father in the mill ; Louisa, who is employed at Akron ; Harriet, who is deceased; and William, Sophia, Elmer, Mary, Herman and Frederick, all residing at home. Mr. Schott and family belong to the German Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Repul)-

.TOHN F. MENTZER, assessor of Norton Township, and the owner of seventy-five acres of very valuable land, which is .situated on the Loyal Oak road, about five miles west of Akron, was born on the fai'm on wliich he lives, in Summit County, Ohio, September 7, 1865. He is a son of Alexander and A?nelia (Blocker) Mentzer.

Alexander Mentzer was born at Canal Fulton, Stark County, Ohio, and died May IB, 1900, aged sixty-four years. His father was John Mentzer, who was a native of Pennsylvania, from which* state he moved to Stark County, Ohio, where he owned the farin where the feeder of the Old Ohio Canal enters the Tu.scarawas River. In 1850 he bought the farm in Norton Township on wliich his grandson, John F., resides, and in 1870, Alexander Mentzer bought it from his father's estate, and, in turn, John F. bought it from Alexander's estate, in October, 1900. Alexander Mentzer married Amelia Blocker. Her father, Eli Blocker was a pioneer of Norton Townshij), and he owned the fai*m which is now the property of Joseph Oser, and on that farm Mrs. Mentzer was born. The five children of Alexander Mentzer and \vife are : John F. ; Charles, residing in Portage Township ; Sadie, who married Edgar Poulson, residing at Warren, Trumbull County; Har\-ey, residing at Garrettsville, Portage County; and Frank, residing at Braceville, Trumbull County.

John F. Mentzer was reared at home and wa.s educated to the age of fourteen years in the countn' schools, after which he worked as a farmer. For two years following his marriage he lived in Medina County, otherwise, his home has always been in Norton Town- .ship. He carrier on general farming, and for some years bought and sold many horses; I^^e is considered a verj^ good business man. 'In addition to farming, Mr. Mentzer frequently spends considerable time auctioneering, and his popularity is shown by his being sent for to cry sales all through the surrounding country.

In 1889 Mr. Mentzer was married to Ella Oplinger, who is a daughter of Nathan Oplinger, and they have four children, namely: Harry. Lloyd. Rus.«ell and Morris.

Politically. Mr. Mentzer is a Democrat, and for the past two years has served as assessor of the township. He was a member of the School Board for four years, and at all times shows a good citizen's intere.sl in the township's educational sitanding Mr. Mentzer ia deacon in the Loyal Oak Reformed Church and for the past ten years has been church secretarA'.

CLARENCE HOWLAND, formerly one of Akron's prominent citizens and leading manufacturers, was identified for a quarter of a century with The Thomas Phillips Company, of which he was treasurer at the time of his death. May 6, 190.5. Mr. Howland was born in New York.

In 1873 Mr. Howland came to Akron and began work with the company with which he continued to be connected as long as he lived, entering its employ in a humble position, and through merit, advancing vmtil he was one of the most valued members of the firm. He was a man of broad and liberal views, and while his business sagacity made him a factor in that line, his public .spirit and his recognition of a citizen's duties, both private and public, made him respected and esteemed in every circle of society.

^Ir. Howland was married (first) to Jennie Fouser, and the four children of this imion were: Helen, Ruth, George and Frank C. Mr. Howland was married (second) to Josephine Creque, and they had one daughter. Josephine.

EDWARD W. LESER, who conducts a florist busineas in Coventry Township, near the city limits of Akron, was bom January 11, 1875, at Bay City, Bay County, Michigan, and is a son of J. J. Leser. The parents of Mr. Leser are still residents of Bay City, where his father carries on a carpenter and contracting business. He W' as born at Ann Arbor, Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Leser have .seven children, the eldest of whom is Edward W.

Until he was seventeen years of age, Edward William Le.ser attended the public schools of Bay City, and then entered the employ of the Irvine Company, florists, wnth whom he remained for nine years, during w'hich time he made a close study of the management and rearing of plants and of all matters concerning their propagation and culture. In the spring of 1898 he came to Akron. He entered the employ of E. J. Bolanz, the leading florist of this city, with whom he continued until 1905, when he purcha.sed Mr. Bolanz's business, which he has successfully conducted ever since. Mr. Leser has .S5,000 feet of .space under cover and owns ten acres of ground. His buildings have modern equipments to produce the proper climatic conditions, he keeps four men employed and does a ver\' large wholesale bu.'iness. and enjoys the largest trade in his line in this city. His greenhouses ai-e delightful to visit, with their abundance of bloom and fragrance, and his growths include all varieties of plants, except palms. He is a self-made man and his success shows the value of industry and concentration of effort.

CHARLES ROEGER, one of the leading business men of Springfield Township, a member of the manufacturing firm of Roeger Brothers, was born in Springfield Township, Summit County, Ohio, September 17, 1875. His parents ai-e Chi'istian and Rosanna (Ribold) Roeger.

Christian Roeger was born in Germany in 1844 and came to America in 1870, locating at Akron, but removing to Tallmadge six months later, where he remained for four and one-half years working for Sperry & Baldwin. In 1875 he came to Brittain, Springfield Township, and in the following year organized the present business Avhioh is now so successfully managed by his two sons, his successors. He started with a repair shop and increased his facilities >as his business grew, remaining as its active head for twenty-four years. In many ways Christian Roeger is a remarkable man. He landed at Akron with a knowledge of the blacksmith trade, but with only forty-eight cents capital. At first, to provide for his immediate wants, he cut timber in South Akron for the building of Buchtel College. He -was married at Canton to Rosainna Ribold, who was born in 1850, and they had four children, the three survivors being: Charles, George W. and Archer. Elbert J., who was born in 1882, died unmarried in 1895. The parents of this family reside at Brittain, worthy and highly respected people.

Charles Roeger attended the schools near his home, and as soon as old enough began to work in his father's shop, and until 1906, devoted him.self almost entirely to the painting department of the business, since which time he has exercised a general superintendence. Charles Roeger married May L. Mc- Chesney, who is a daughter of Edward and

Sarali (Wise) McChesney, and they have two children, Glynn and Reginald. Mr. Roeger is a member of the East ^larket Street Reformed Church, in which he is a deacon. He belongs to Apollo Lodge, No. 61, East Akron, Odd Fellows. Politically, he is a Republican.

George W. Roeger, who is his brother's ]jartner in the firm of Roeger Broth ei-s, was born in Springfield Township, Summit County, Ohio, in Mtu'ch, 1878. He was educated in the local schools and, like his older brother, eai'ly began work in his father's shop. He was married to Anna Brubaker, September 17, 1902, and they have one child. Politically, he is a Republican. He is a member of the East Market Street Reformed Church.

The firm of Roeger Brothers does a very large business. It is one of the oldest houses of its kind in this section and it has gained the confidence of the public through honor- .able businftss dealing and high quality of goods. The factory is located at Brittain. The firm manufactures diff^erent kinds of carriages and wagons and deals also in harness and fann implements, twelve men being given constant employment. Their repair shop alone does a bu.sines3 of from $5,000 to $6,200 per year, and their new business amounts to from $5,- 000 to $6,000 annually. The present factory was built about 1892 and has been remodeled .severl times since, excellent facilities now being afforded.

RUSSELL T. DOBSON, one of AkroTi's practical and succe,ssful business men, who is president and manager of the Dobson Building Company, has been an active and valued citizen of this place since 1892. He was bom in 1861, at Battle Creek, Michigan, removing from there with his parents when eleven yeaxs of age, and settling at Toledo.

In 1880, with W. B. Dobson, his brother, he purchased the newspaper property of The Wood County Democrat, at Bowling Green, Ohio, where he resided until 1889, servinsr as postmaster during the administration of President Cleveland. He then moved to Defiance, Ohio, where he published the Defiance County Democrat, and also the Daily News. In 1891 he removed to Springfield, Ohio, and there engaged for a year in the publication of the Daily Democrat, and then came to Ak- * ron. Mr. Dohson and his brother estal^lished here a newspapei" under the name of the Daily Democrat, which is now known as the Daily Times, which he continued until 1897, when he sold out, and in the following year took over the management of the Beacon-Journal, and was owner and manager of the same mitil 1903, when he sold out his newspaper interert.'?.

Mr. Dobson then turned his attention to other lines, and shortly afterward erected the Dobson Building, one of the most modern, sanitarj' and convenient office buildings in Akron. It is five stories in height, situated on the corner of Howard and Main Streets, occupying 74 feet on the latter, with 110 feet of depth, and with two basements.

In 1885 Mr. Dobson was married to Jennie A. Wiley, of Bowling Green, Ohio, and they have one son, Russell T., Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Dobson attend the Episcopal Church. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Elks and the Knights of Pythias.

HARRY A. COCHRANE, one of Northfield Township's representative citizens and successful agriculturists, was born at Ligonier, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, March 9, 1866, and is a son of Huston and Rachel (Scroggs) Cochrane.

Huston Cochrane was born at Latrobe, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, where he received a common school education and learned the trade of potter, which he followed for nearly twenty-five years, owning his own kilns and making stone, china nnd all kinds of earthenware. About 1874 Mr. Cochrane sold his pottery, and purchased a farm at Latrobe, on which he resided for nine years, and at the end of that time came to Northfield Township, Summit County, Ohio, purchasing the old Griswold farm of 106 acres, on which he spent the remainder of his life, his death occurring July 1, 1906. Mr. Cochrane was a Republican in politics, and while at Ligonier, Pennsylvania, served as tax collector and school director for three years. He married Rachel Scroggs, who was a daughter of Rev. Joseph Scroggs, a clergj'- man of the United Presbyterian Church, who preached for fifty years in the Ligonier Valley. There were six children born to this union, namely: Laura, who is the wife of William McFarland, of Latrobe; James Edwin, who died in infancy; Joseph, who is deceased; Harry A.; Aggie, who is the wife of George McFarland, of Greensburg, Pennsylvania; and Thomas, who died at the age of five years. The mother of these children, who is now seventy-three yeaVs old, makes her home with her son Harry A., and is a devoted member of the United Presbyterian Church, of which her husband was an elder for thirty years.

In 1885, after coming to Summit County, Harry A. Cochrane entered the Northfield High School, and after graduating there he took a course in the Cleveland Business College. For some time afterward he traveled for the Brooks Oil Company, and also handled agricultural implements for a while. About 1900 he bought a one-half interest in the Macedonia Milling Company, taking full charge of buying and selling, also running a cider press and apple jelly factory in connection. He closed this business out in 1905. Since then he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising, devoting seventy-eight acres of his property to raising corn, oats, wheat and hay, and from twelve to fifteen acres to growing potatoes. Mr. Cochrane keeps from six to eight head of cattle, raises young stock, and keeps about nine head of horses. He uses the most modern methods in operating his farm, and is considered one of Northfield Township's good, practical agriculturists.

Mr. Cochrane was married to Myrtle Ne.sbitt. who is a daughter of James Nesbitt, one of Northfield Township's most prominent citizens, who was county commissioner of

Summit County for seven yearti. Two children have been born to thL!< union: Helen liaehel and Lucille, the latter of whom died in infancy. Mr. and Mr.<. Cochrane are members of the Uiiited Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. In political matters Mr. Cochrane is an independent Kepublican.

M. B. SHUMAKEK, of Shumaker and Company, boot and shoe merchants, at Akron, with business located at No. 17 South Howard Street, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in l(Sr)4, and is a son of William and Margaret (l^locker) Shumaker.

Williiun Shumaker, father of M. B., accompanied his father, also William Shumaker, to Wayne County from Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, in 1823, and resided on his farm, which his father had secured from the gxjvernment, until his death, in February, 1907, at the age of eighty-.-<even years. He married Margaret Blocker, who died in 1858. They had six children, the five now living being: Amanda, who married D. T. Frank, and residing at Massillon ; Lee C, who is engaged in bu.-iiness at Lorain, Ohio; John F., who is one of the infirmary directors of Medina County; M. B., of Akron; and W. W. Shumaker, wlio is engaged in farming in Wayne County.

M. B. Shumaker attended the country schools, and when twenty-one years of age he left the farm and came to Akron. Here he began to learn the shoe business with Bowman and McNeil, with whom he remained four years, later spending one year at Y^'oinigstown. In 1880, he went to Helena, Montana, where he remained for fifteen months, going thence to California, Washington and Oregon, and remaining in the far We.'^t until 1884. He then returned to the East and was engaged in a shoe business at Ma.s.sillon, Ohio, until 1801. Ill health kept him out of bu.'^ine-:s for a year, hut in 1892, seeing a good opening at Akron, he embarked in a .«hoe bu.*ine.«s in this city, beginning on a limited scale, with one clerk and an office boy. His entrance into business wa.'i in one way at an inif.-ivorablo time, the small-pox epidemic immediately following; nevertheless he was able to achieve progress from the first, and now owns one of the finest shoe stores in Akron. He carries a large and varied stock, to suit every taste, has modern equipments, and gives constant employment to seven assistants, and on Saturdays, when the countiy people come to the city to supply their needs, he requires four extra helpers, Mr. Shumaker attributes his success to fair and courteous dealing, and to the excellence of the stock he carries. He is one of the directors of the Dollar Savings Bank at Akron.

On April 15, 1885, Mr. Shumaker was married to Ella B. Hawkins, wdio is a daughter of Nelson C. Hawkins, of Portage Township, Summit County, and they have one son, Lloyd, who is a student in the Akron High School. Mr. Shumaker is a member of the Knights of Pythias and of the Odd Fellows. He belongs to the West Hill Congregational Church, of which he was a trustee for several years. He is conceded to be one of Akron's representative business men.

ORISON M. MOORE, general farmer and dairyman, oi)erating his valuable farm of some seventy acres, is one of the prosperous agriculturists of Stow Township. He was born in Suffield Township, Portage County, Ohio, December 20, 1847, and is a son of Samuel Lucius and Sally H. (Randall) Moore.

The father of Mr. Moore was born May 29, 1819, at Middletown, Connecticut, and accompanied his parents when they moved first to Pennsylvania, and some years later to New Portage, Ohio, where they purchased a small farm. They w'ere Lester H. and Ruth (Smith) Moore. They had the following children : Lois B., who was born .Tanuary 81, LSKi: Samuel Lucius; Mary A., who was horn in 1822; Ori.-^on Erskine, born in 1823; Rufus S])a]ding, who was born in 182r); ,Tohn Ilnmjihrey, who was born in 1829; .Juden Harrison, who was born in 1833; Polly 0., who wa.'? born in 1836; Orville Smith, who wa* born in 1839; and Sarah Lucretia, who was born in 1841.

Samuel Lucius Moore worked in youth on his father's farm and subsequently acquired property of his own, which included a onehalf interest in a pottery, in Suffield Township, where he worked for some years as a turner. He became a man of local prominence in SufKeld Township and served as a trustee. In April, 1809, he came to Stow Township and purchased the farm on which his son, Orison M., resides, which was the old Wetmore homestead, and at that time contained about 120 acres. The railroad has taken some eight acres of the original farm. On this property Mr. Moore raised many sheep, having been previously engaged in this industry in SufReld Township, and also carried on general farming and dairying. He died on the present farm May 19, 1886, leaving his property to his heirs, Orison M. having the use of the present farm as long as he lives. Of his seven children, but two grew to maturity: James S.. residing also in Stow Township, and Orison M.

Orison M. Moore enjoyed educational advantages, completing his education in the Suffield High School, at Randolph. He assisted his father on the homestead, and has resided in Stow Township ever since his marriage. For nine years following his father's death he rented the present farm, but since 1898 has had the sole control. During this time he also cultivated a farin which Mrs. Moore inherited from her father, and which is still her personal possession. Mr. Moore raises wheat, oats, corn and potatoes, and keeps twelve head of cattle through the winter and sells his milk to the Co-operative Creamery at Stow. He is also interested in raising poultry and supplies a large demand from Silver Lake.

Mr. Moore was married to Clara Wetmore, who belongs to an old and distingi:ished family of this section. She is a daughter of Edwin and Polly (Wetmore) Wetmore. The Wetmore family came originally from Wales, in the persons of three brothers, Seth, Chauncy, and one whose name has been lo.st. Setji settled in Connecticut and the Wetmores of Stow Town.«hip descended from him. His son William was the first justice of the peace in Stow Township. He was known as Judge Wetmore and was the grandfather of Mrs. Moore. His children, Edwin, William, Henry, Ogden and Clarissa, were liLs heirs, and Edwin owned some 200 acres. He built the house which belongs to the heirs of Mr. and Mrs. Moore. He was a justice of the peace and a man of consequence in this part of Sunnnit County. He was born in 1798 and died December 25, 1872.

Mr. and Mrs. Moore have had seven children, the three survivors being one daughter and two sons: Grace Claribel, Henry W. and Arthur Garfield. Mrs. Moore is a valued member of the Disciples Church at Stow Corners.

In politics, Mr. Moore votes with the Republican party in national mutters, but prefers to be independent in local affairs. He is identified with several fraternal organizations, and is past commander of the Maccabees, is past president and a trustee of the Pathfinders, at Cuyahoga Falls, is past chief ranger and a trustee of the Foresters at Cuyahoga Falls. He takes an active interest in the public affairs of his neighborhood when benevolent movements are organized. Mr. Moore and family are people who enjoy the highest measure of public e.steem.

AARON MORRTSS, a native of Winstead, Connecticut, who died on his farm in the southeast part of Tallmadge Township, Summit County, Ohio, in 1871, aged seventy-one years, was one of the leading men of this section, and a type of that strict uncompromising integrity which makes men honored whether rich or poor.

The name of Morriss is attached to that immortal document, The Declaration of Independence, and the lady who is the sole representative of the family, in Tallmadge Township, Miss America Morri.ss, is a lineal descendant of the signer. Her paternal grandparent" died when her father, the late Aaron Morri.ss. was a child. He had two brothers and two sisters. One brother, Andrew Morri.ss. owned a home at Bridgeport. Connecticut, adjoining that of the late P. T. liariiuni, while the other brother lived at New Haven. One sister married Mr. Hill, who was superintendent of the Marine Hospital at New Haven, and the other sister became the wife of Rev. Lewis Fisk, who was the first person to be interred in what was then called the New Evergreen Cemetery, at New Haven.

Aaron Morriss spent his first twenty-one years mainly at New Haven and Winstead, where he learned the carpenter's and cabinetmaker's trades. In pursuit of business, he then accompanied Peter Hepburn to Savannah, Georgia, where he lived for thirteen years, engaged in building and contracting. He became a man of consequence there, took an active interest in the public life of the city and, on account of his sterling qualities as well as his personal appeai-ance and dignified bearing, he was selected as one of the committee of Savannah citizens to receive and welcome General Lafayette, when he visited that city in 1824. Mr. Morri.^s was known as a very liberal man and is said to have contributed fifty dollars to every church built in the community in which he lived. He made many and warm friends in the southern city, even when a cordial feeling was not the normal attitude between New England and Georgia.

After he returned to New Haven, Mr. Morriss was married to Sarah Isbell, who was a daughter of Israel and Sallie (Pardee) Isbell. Her maternal grandmother was Rebecca Beecher, who was a sister of the late Dr. Lyman Beecher. Israel Isbell and wife died at Milford, Connecticut. They had the following children exclusive of Mrs. Morriss: David, who subsequently came to Tallmadge, who married Charlotta Beach, a very aristocratic lady of Milford. After his death in Tallmadge, she married the Reverend Mr. Piatt, and died at Oberlin, Ohio. Israel, a cabinet-maker by trade, also came to Tallmadge. He married Huldah Wooding, of New Haven, Connecticut. Josiah Pardee married Mary Andrew, of Connecticut, and they remained in that state. Polly married Benedict Merwin and went to reside on Long Island. Irene, the youngest, married Bela Clark and they remained at Milford, Connecticut.

At the time of her marriage to Aaron Morriss, Sarah Isbell was the widow of Captain Freegift Coggeshall. Mr. and Mrs. Morriss had two children - America, who was born in Tallmadge Township, Summit County, in 1835 ; and Corinne, born in 1836, who died December 25, 1894. Few young ladies of their day enjoyed better educational advantages than were given the Masses Morrass. They attended the Ravenna select school conducted by Miss Curtis, a graduate of Mt. Holyoke, Massachusetts; later, the Hudson Female Seminary, in charge of Miss Lee, and still later the Ontario Female Seminary, at Canandaigua, New York, where they remained until they completed their education. They returned to Tallmadge where they exerted a wholesome influence of culture and refinement. The father took great pride in his daughters, and the family relations were marked by the most perfect congeniality. The beloved mother, who was born at Milford, Connecticut, in 1801, survived to the age of seventy-eight years, passing away in 1879, having sui"vived her husband for eight years.

Aaron Morriss made an early visit to Summit County, but was not so impressed with the country at that time as to invest in land, but after his marriage he returned and settled on the farm which remained his home initil the close of his life. The confinement incidental to hLs trade acted unfavorably on his health, and he was obliged to ,give it up and seek an out-door life, but his talent as a worker in wood, never permitted him to entirely lay aside his tools. Before leaving his native state he had fashioned furniture that probably still is in use in Yale College, and had also done a large amount of building.

The land that Mr. Morriss purchased in Tallmadge Township was a tract of 155 acres, and of it he made a model farm. No unsightly stumps were left to mar the even beauty of liLs fields and meadows, while all his build- iugri were kept in the best of repair and were ciuitcd to their needs and adequately equipped. He wii;3 a natural architect and when building or making repairs, first laid out a plan and followed it. As his daughter views her comfortable home she can recall how her father ctu"efully fitted each bit of material as he was partially rebuilding, and the great pillars of the porch, of solid black walnut, were chiseled out by his skilled hands with the truest accuracy. All he did was in the same careful way. He took delight in growing fruits and vegetables, and in improving his surroinidings, and enjoj^ed comfort in the quiet, refined peace of his home, where at last he passed peacefully away.

Miss America Morriss now owns the old homestead farm which her father bought in the year preceding her birth, and she also owns city property in Akron. For many years she has admirably administered her own affairs and is known as an excellent business woman as well as a lady of great charity and of warm, true hospitality. She attends the Congregational Church at Tallmadge.

DAVID R. FERGUSSON, the efficient citj' marshal at Barberton, is serving in his fifth successive term in his present capacity. He was born at Lockland, Ohio, August 14, 1875, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Campbell) Fergusson.

The parents of Mr. Fergusson moved to Akron in 1879, and to Barberton, in 1883, his father in that year entering the employ of the American Straw Board Company at this place. He built the first house in the new part of Barberton, west of the Erie Railroad. AVilliam Fergusson still survives, but his wife died in March, 1905.

David R. Fergu.sson was educated in the schools of Akron and of New Portage, up to the age of fourteen years, when he started to work for the American Straw Board Company, then known as the Portage Straw Board, remaining about seven years. From that company he went to the American Sewer Pipe Works, first as kiln setter and later as fireman, remaining until 1900, when he was first elected town mai-shal. Prior to this, from 1899 to 1900, he had served as chief of the fire department and so efficiently as to gain the confidence of his fellow-citizens. He has subsequently been re-elected marshal and his last election was by a majority of 300 votes.

PERRY R. MILLER, who came to Barberton in 1892, one of its first home-makers, resides at No. 926 Wooster Avenue, where his beautiful dwelling is surrounded by two acres of improved land. For many years prior to that date he was a large farmer and successful dairjmian in Norton Township. He was born in Norton Township, Summit County, Ohio, August 29, 1855, and is a son of Cyrus and Hannah (Reese) Miller.

Cyrus Miller was also born in Norton Township, but the grandfather of Perry R. Miller was born in Ireland. He emigrated to America and lived for a time in Summit County, but later moved to Illinois, and both he and wife died there before the birth of their grandson. Cyrus Miller worked as a tailor during some of his earlier years, on account of an accident, which resulted in the loss of a leg, which for a time prevented agricultural work, but he subsequently became a farmer in Norton Township. He died at Akron, aged eighty years, his wife dying when seventy-eight years old. They had six children, namely: Wellington, residing at Barberton; Wealthy, who died in girlhood from being accidentally burned ; ' Perry R. ; Wilbur and Willis, twins, the latter of whom is deceased, the former residing at Barberton ; and Arthur, residing at Akron.

Perry R. Miller was reared on the home farm in Norton Township, in which, with the exception of one year, 1865, when the family resided at Wadsworth, he has spent his life.

He at one time owned 240 acres of land, in two farms, and for many years resided on one of 190 acres, which belonged to his wife and her mother. During the winter oi" 190(3-7 he sold that farm but retains one of fifty acres, which, with his property at Barberton, still leaves him the owner of some very valuable realty. He was educated in the ' district schools of Norton Township, after which he taught .school for about three year^, but later turned his entire attention to farming and dairying, in which he met with much .success.

Mr. Miller married Addie L. Dickerman, who is a daughter of Simeon and Mary Ann Dickerman, who came early to Norton Township. Mr. Dickerman is deceased, Ijut Mrs. Dickerman resides with Mr. and :Mrs. Miller. The latter have two sons, \^ernon and Leland.

Mr. Miller has always taken an active and intelligent interest in township affairs, and on numerous occasions has been called on by his fellow citizens to accept office, and has served most acceptably as township clerk and trustee. He is one of the leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Barberton, in which he is steward, trustee and treasurer, and also serves as a.s.sistant superintendent of the Sunday-school. He occupies himself mainly in looking after his real estate interests, which he has lately increa.^ed. He is a man of public spirit and the improvements he puts on his properties add' to their value and also to the general appearance of the town.

GEORGE A. BOTZUM, proprietor of one of the leading mercantile establishments at Akron, the George A. Botzum Company, dealers in dry goods and ready-to-wear garments, was born in Northampton Town.'ihip, Summit County, Ohio, May 31, 1858, and is a son of Adam Botzum.

The Botzum family is of German extraction and it was the grandfather, John George Botzum, who brought his family from Germany and .settled in Northampton Town.*hip, Summit County, Ohio, in IS.'^fi, securing Government land, on which he lived for the remainder of his life. The village of Botzum, in that section, is named for this respected fiinnily. The late Adam Botzum was six years old when he accompanied his father to America. He was born at Strasburg, Germany, October 25, 1830, and died in Northampton Township, where his long, useful and honored life was passed, October 16, 1907. He was an old-school, Jeffersonian Democrat and an important factor in the political life of his fonnnunity. He served as township trustee and on the School Board and both in public and private life was an ideal citizen.

George A. Botzum was reared on the old homestead, and from the local schools entered Buchtel College, where he was graduated in the normal eour.se., in 1879, in the meantime teaching .school, alternating as a teacher and. a pupil. In 1880 he came to Akron and entered the dry goods store of Hall Brothers. For nine years he served as manager and went from there to the Boston store, where he remained seven years, going then to A. Polsky, with whom he continued for eight years. AVith all this mercantile experience, Mr. Botzum felt qualified to embark in the business for himself, and September 23, 1904, he opened up his present business, under the firm name of the George A. Botzum Company. The firm is established at Nos. 9-11 South Howard Street, occupying three floors, two of which are devoted to the exhibition of cloaks and ready-to-wear garments. Fourteen people are required to show goods and the volume of trade is on the increase. Good taste in the selection of stock, honest methods and courteous treatment are all contributing causes to the success of this enterprise.

On September 4. 1883, Mr. Botzum was married to Maud Fayerweather, w^ho is a daughter of .Tames B. Fayerweather, who was a j)ioneer in Boston Township. Mr-, and Airs. Botzum have three children: Floyd A., who is a graduate of the Akron High School, and assists his father in the store: Jennie B.. who is a student at Mt. JTnion College: and Lydia E., who is a student at Buchtel College. Mr. Botzum and familv helono- to "We.^t Hill Con-

JOHN FREDERICK IIANKEY, u general farmer residing on his well-cultivated farm of eighty acres, situated in Copley Township, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, May 24, 1855, and is a .*on of Sanuiel and Mary (Witmer) Hankey.

Samuel Hankey came to Ohio in young manhood and shortly afterward wa.s married to Mary Witmer, who, like himself, had been born in an eastern State. They lived at Akron for a short period and then moved to a farm of H)'^ acres, in Copley Township, where they ccjntinued to live for forty years, removing then to a farm near White Elephant, on which both died. Sanmel Hankey lived to be seventy-four years old, but his wife died at the age of sixty-one. The venerable father of Samuel Hankey, Lewis Hankey, accompanied his son to Copley Township. He wa.? a man well-known, being a shoemaker by trade and a preacher by profession. He died aged eighty-eight years. Samuel Hankey and wife had five children, a.s follows: David; Ellen, who married P. G. Prentice; Catherine, deceased, who married Charles Traver; John Frederick, and ElizaV)eth, who married J. D. Arnold.

Shortly after his birth, the father of John Frederick Hankey, bought land where South Akron now stands. When he was eight years old, Mr. Hankey rememliers walking almost the whole way to the farm which his father had purchased in Copley Township, the same which he now owns. Here he was reared and the little schooling he was able to get was obtained in the district .schools. On January 1, 1878, he was married, and then bought the home farm, which he has since continued to operate. He has done a great deal of improving, putting up the present substantial Iniildings, and has a comfortable home and valuable property. He set out the orchard and all the other trees.

born in Wayne County, and the latter in Copley Township, Summit County. Mrs. Hankey'.s maternal grandparents were Abraham and Sarah (Arnold) Heistand. Her parents both died in Copley Township, in 1906, the father aged seventy-five years and the mother sixty-nine years. They had four children: Albert; Emma; Delia M., who married Frank Lyon; and Lettie.

Mr. and Mrs. Hankey have one son, Harry Wilbur, who was born September 6, 1883, and lives at home with his parents. The family belongs to the United Brethren Church, Mr. Hankey being one of the stewards. They are well-known and highly esteemed people in Copley Township.

GEORGE A. PFLUEGER, president of the Enterprise Manufacturing Company, of Akron, Ohio, one of Akron's oldest and most substantial manufacturing enterprises, and the largest of its kind in this country, was born in Akron in 1871, and is the son of the late E. F. Pflueger, the founder of the company.

, George A. Pfiueger was reared and educated in Akron, and from the public schools of this city he entered his father's factory, where he received the technical training necessary for a business of this chai'acter. In 1889 Mr. Pflueger took charge of a branch factory at North St. Paul, Minnesota, returning to Akron in 1895, and has since been actively engaged in the various departments of the business. He was elected to the position of vice-president in May, 1901, and filled that office until November, 1903, when he was elected to his present position as president of the company. His years of training in the harness ornament and fishing tackle business, together with his natural business abilities, well fit him for the position of chief of a large industrial enterpri.se.

In 1896 Mr. Pflueger was married to Miss Sarah J. Earhuff, of St. Paul, Minnesota. They have five children resulting from such union, namely: Marjorie. Virginia, Harriet, George and Sarah. Mr. Pflueger is a Mason

The late Mr. E. F. Ptlueger, father of the subject of this sketch, was born at Baden, Germany, in February, 1843, and died November 18, 1901. He was brought to America in early childhood. He was soon orphaned by the premature death of his parents, and through difficulties and privations, by force of natural ability and sterling character, developed himself into a man of prominence and fortune. At his death he left as a fitting monument to his efforts and years of industry the great manufacturing concern which his sons now operate. The Enterprise Maniifacturing Company was founded by E. F. Pflueger in 1880, incorfjorated in 1886, and from its inception has been a leader in its line.

H. 11. TAYLOR, president of the Long- Taylor Company, at Akron, has been a resident of this city for twenty years and has done his part in advancing her interests. He was born at Tallmadge, Ohio, in 1872, and is a son of the late Samuel C. Taylor. The Taylor family is one of the oldest in Summit County. Samuel C. Taylor was born in Tallmadge Township in 1837, and became one of the leading men of his day in this locality. His death took place March 19, 1905.

TI. ri. Taylor was reared and educated in Tallmadge until he prepared for college, and then spent two yeai-s at Buchtel College. AA''hen lie entered into business at Akron it was as shoe salesman for C. A. Barnes and Company, proprietors of the Black Bear Hat Store, where he remained three years. He then continued two years with A. L. Bowman and Company, who purchased the shoe department of the other firm. During the next two years he was connected with S. E. Phinney & Company, and then became a member of the firm of M. S. Long & Company. This firm was succeeded by that of Long & Taylor, which was later incorporated as The Long & Taylor Company, which is recognized as OTIC of Akron's leading business firms.

On September 21, 1905, Mr. Taylor was married to Mary A. Stolcy, of Akron, and they have one daughter, Mary ^\.lta. Mr. Taylor is a 32nd degree Mason and belongs to the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery at Akron, and to Alkoran Shrine and Lake Erie Consistory, at Cleveland.

HON. THOMAS WKIGHT, a prominent citizen of Springfield Township, who served in the Ohio State Legislature from 1890 until 1891, declining renomination, is a representative of a leading pioneer family of this section. Mr. Wright was born in Tompkins County, New York, February 22, 1830, and is a son of Thomas Wright, Sr., and his wife, Lucy (Kirkman) Wright. Thomas Wright, Sr., and his wife celebrated their golden wedding in 1867. They were born and married in England. Four of their children were born in England and two after they came to America. They were: George, James, Jemima, Josiah, Thomas and Lucy. The eldest son, George Wright, died some years since at the home of his sister, in Michigan. In his earlier years he taught school and then engaged for a time in farming, later becoming a merchant. He married twice, his wives being sisters by the name of Williams. James Wright, now deceased, farmed during his earlier years, and then became a bookkeeper, residing in Akron. He married Mary Buechtel, who was a sister of John Buechtel. Jemima, the eldest da\ighter. residing on her farm in Michigan, is the widow of William Harris, who died on his farm in the neigliborhood of Hudson. Michigan. Josiah Wright (deceased) was educated at Meadville, Pennsylvania, and then went to Virginia as a teacher. He married there, and after the death of his first wife, married again, and siibsequently moved to Missouri, where he engaged in a lumber business. Lucy A., the youngest member of the family, died in the winter of 1906. Prior to her marriage Math Andrew .Jackson, she was a school teacher, a profession her husband also followed. Later Mr. and Mrs. .Tackson moved to .\kron. where he and his sons went into the lumber business. .One son. Dr. Tlinmas .Tackson, went

Thomas Wright was gifted by nature with a quick intelligence, and, although his schooling was limited to attendance at the public or district schools, by home study he became quite well informed. He prepared himself for teaching school, and taught for two terms in Coventry Township so satisfactorily that he was besought by his patrons to continue in the educational field after his marriage. He thought it best, however, to turn his attention to farming, and began on rented land in Springfield Township, but later he purchased the old Wright homestead, on which his father had settled in 18.37. This property was partly cleared but the country round about was but thinly settled. The aged parents lived in this home until death. They were typical pioneers and are remembered with the respectful affection by their children.

In October, 1852, Thomas Wright was married to Elizabeth A. Henderson, who died in May, 1904, aged seventy-two years. She was a daughter of James and Mary (Smith) Henderson rasidents of Springfield Township, who reared a large family which still has numerous descendants in this locality. Mrs. Wright was a teacher prior to her marriage. She was a most estimable woman, fulfilling every duty as wife, mother and neighbor. For many year.s she had been a consistent member of the Pleasant Valley Methodist Episcopal Church, and she was laid to rest in the cemetery adjoining. Her happy married life had covered fifty-two years. She was permitted to enjoy the celebration of their Golden Wedding, on October 5, 1902, a memorable occasion to all who were permitted to participate in its quiet festivities. The children born to Thomas Wright and wife who reached maturity were: James F., .John F., Lucy J.. Myron T. and Edwin E. All the children, both of Thomas Wright, Sr., and Thomas Wright, Jr., who attained maturity were school teachers.

James F. Wright, eldest son of Thomas Wright, .Jr., residing near his father and engaged in farming, is one of the leading citizen.? of Springfield Township. He married

Mary Steese and they have three children. Lucy, the only daughter, was educated very thoroughly and became a teacher. She married Herman G. AlcChesney, who is in the rural mail service, and resides at Akron. Mr. McChesney owns an excellent farm of forty acres near Krumroy. Mr. and McChesney have one son in the mail service, and two other children resicUng at home. Edwin E., the second son of Mr. Wright, engaged in teaching prior to his marriage, but for a number of years has been prominently associated with newspaper work. He was first connected with the Akron Journal, later the Cleveland Press, then the Pitsburg Dispatch, and the New York Press, but now fills the editorial chair of the Youngstown Telegram. He married Lucy Carl of Mogadore, Ohio.

In his early political life, Mr. Wright was a Whig, casting his first presidential vote for Gen. Zachery Taylor. He came into sympathy with the party that made John C. Fremont its standard-bearer, then voted for Abraham Lincoln and for every subsequent Republican candidate. He saw service during the Civil AVar, enlisting in Company H, 164th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in 1864, with the rank of corporal. He has long been an active factor in politics in Summit County, but has seldom accepted political office of any kind, although well qualified to do so. In 1889 he was elected a member of the State Legislature and served through one term with fidelity and efficiency, but no arguments were sufficient to induce him to be again a candidate.

Mr. Wright's fraternal connections are with Buckley Post, Grand Army of the Republic, at Akron, and with Akron Lodge. No. 83, A. F. & A. M. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOSIAH BROWN, funeral director and furniture dealer at Cuvahoga Falls, was born in Summit County. Ohio. April 28. 1838. and is a son of Simon and Elizabeth (Pontious) Brown.

died in Stark County, Ohiu, where he was eugaged in agricuUural pur^^uits. He had a family of thirteen cliildren and of these Simon wiis the eldest. The latter was born in Pennsylvania and came to Summit County about 1835. He died in 1895, aged eightyfour years. After reaching Cuyahoga Falls he learned the cabinet-making trade, with J. T. Holloway, and then went into partner.'ship with Addison McConkey, under the finn name of McConkey & Brown. About 1848 he purchased his partner's interest and continued alone, alf^o carrying on undertaking, and being the only undertaker in the place for many years. He .supported the candidates of the Republican party. His wife, who was a daughter of Solomon Pontious, was born at Uniontown, Stark County, Ohio, and died December, 1901, aged eighty-four years. The three children of Simon Brown and his wife were: Josiah, subject of this sketch; Mrs. Harriet Goble, residing at Cuyahoga Falls; and Ezra, who is now deceased. The family belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

After completing his education in the High School at Cuyahoga Falls, .losiah Brown learned hi* father's trade, and continued to be associated with him until 1873, when he w-ent to Akron, where be worked through the summer and fall as a carpenter, and then entered the employ of Turner, Vaiighn & Taylor. For twenty years he remained with that firm as a carpenter and then returned to his father. After the latter's death, he managed the business for his mother nntil her death, when he took en tare* charge. It is one of the oldest business houses at the Falls.

Mr. Brown is a veteran of the Civil War. On September 10, 1861, he enlisted in Battery D. Firsit Ohio Light Artillery, and re-enli.sted in the same battery, in January, 1864, and was commissioned second lieutenant at that time. He took an active part in all the engagements in which his battery was concerned and he was honorably discharged in June, 1865. Mr. Brown is a member of Eddy Post, No. 37, Grand Army of the Republic, at Cuyahoga Falls, and enjoys meeting with his old

Mr. Brown married Lucy E. V\ arner, a daughter of John Warner, of Cuyahoga Falls, and they have had three children, namely: Ida, deceased, who married William Graham, of Akron; Charles Arthur, residing at Toledo, a mechanical engineer in the employ of the Toledo Railway and Light Company ; and Birdie B., who is the widovv' of John Wilson, residing at New York City. Mr. Brown and family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is affiliated with Howard Lodge, No. 62, Odd Fellows. Politically ne is a Republican.

W. C. KEENAN, one of Akron's business citizens, is established in excellent quarters on North Main Street, where he deals in buggies, wagons, harness and horses, shipping annually from six to seven carloads of the latter. He wa< born in Boston Township, Summit County, Ohio, on the old Ritchie homestead, September 27, 1872, and is a son of John Keenan. The father of Mr. Keenan was born in Ireland and after emigrating, settled first at Niagara Falls, and in 1857 came to Summit County. He located in Boston Township, where he has carried on agricultural pur.«uits ever since.

M'. C. Keenan was reared on the home f;n-ni and attended the district schools and then entered the Western Reserve Academy as a member of the class of 1892. In the meanwhile, as he was dependent mainly on his own efforts, he left school and taught through ten seasons, .subsequently returning to the university, where he completed his course and graduated with the class of 1894. During his period of teaching he started a grocery store at Peninsula, which he gradually expanded nntil the commodities he handled included a general line of merchandise, buggies, agricultural implements, harne.'%s and horses. He dealt extensively in horses and at the time of his sale, in 1901, in y)reparation to move to .Akron, he had forty-two bo'id to dispose of.

son, of Cuyahoga Ealls, and they liave one son, William Harold. Mr. Keenan is a member of the Knights of Columbus and of St. Vincent de Paul's Catholic Church.

GEORGE CRISP, of the lirm of George Crisp and Son, proprietors of the Akron Storage and Warehouse Company, located at Nos. 211-215 South Broadway, has been a resident of Akron for thirty-one years and is one of the city's most substantial and representative men. He was born in Northamptonshire, England, in 1849, and when a boy went to London, where he served an apprenticeship of six years to the brick-laying and stone-cutting trades. At the age of twenty-one he came to America, locating for a .short time at Toronto, Canada. In 1S72 he removed to Cleveland, and in 1876 to Akron. For some time, in association with his brother, John Crisp, he did a small jobbing business, and they then formed the firm of Crisp Brothers and entered into contracting. Their first large contract was the Henry school building, a fine structure for those days, and its attractive appearance and substantial construction did much to extend the business of the firm. The brothers continued together for twenty years and during that time contracted for and erected about one-third of all the prominent buildings in Akron, including many factories and seven school buildings. The firm soon became the most prominent one in their line of business in this section of the State. Since 1896 the style of the firm has been George Crisp and Son, and in addition to general contracting, the firm does a large storage and coal business. They erected on South Broadway a fine brick building. 220 feet by 45, five stories high, with basement, it being one of the best-built buildings in the city. They have also two fine brick buildings on North Howard Street, one 66 feet by 30. three stories in height, and the other 120 by 40, all having been built after modern plans. The latter buildings are their headquarters for general supply work of all kinds.

Wat^son, whose parents were born in England. They have four children, namely: Frederick James, who is associated with his father in business; George Raymond, who is a student at the Ohio University ; Grace E., who is employed in her father's office ; and William E., who is attending school in Akron.

Mr. Crisp is an old member of the Odd Fellows Fraternity, having united with the Manchester Unity order in his native land, when sixteen yeare of age. In 1882 he joined Apollo Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., of Akron. He is affiliated with all its divisions and is faithful to all its teachings.

HON. DAVID TOD. Few men in American public life have attained to a nobler fame than that which history accords to the late Hon. David Tod, Ohio's great war governor, whose death took place November 13, 1868. Throughout a public career which had its beginning when he was comparatively young and which continued through the trying years of the Civil War, he continued to be a type of American statesman-^hip at its best.

David Tod was born at Youngstown, Ohio, February 21, 1805, and was a son of Hon. George and Sally (Isaacs) Tod, and a grandson of David and Rachel (Kent) Tod, of old New England stock. His father, Judge George 'Tod, was born at SufReld, Connecticut, December 11, 1773, was graduated from . Yale College in 1795 and subsequently studied law at New Haven, Connecticut. He wa« there admitted to the bar and entered upon the practice of his profession. In 1800 he accompanied a party of prospectors to the Western Reserve and formed so favorable an opinion of the great opportunities for business and professional development in Ohio that he made plans, which he later successfully carried out, to become a resident of this beautiful state. In 1801 Judge Tod removed, with his wife and two children, to Youngstown. and in the same year was appointed secretary for the territory of Ohio, by Governor Arthur St. Clair. In 1802 Ohio became a state and at the first election held thereafter at Youngstown,

George Tod was elected clerk of Youngstown Township, to which bfiice he was subsequently re-elected. He continued in the practice oi his profession but was soon called into active public life, being elected state senator from Trumbull County, serving in the session of 1804-5, and again, in the same capacity, in 1810-11. In the interim between these two terms of service, he filled for four years an important position on the bench, serving for four years as a judge of the supreme court of Ohio, which service was terminated in 1810.

At the opening of the War of 1812, Judge Tod signified his intention of taking an active part in militarj' operations and was first commissioned major of the 19th Ohio Regiment, later serving as colonel. On the field Judge Tod distinguished himself, participating in the battles of Fort Meigs and Sacketts Harbor. At the close of the war he returned once more to the practice of the law, but in 1815 he was again honored by his fellow-citizens, being elected presiding judge of the court of common pleas, an office he held lantil 1829. With the exception of one term as prosecuting attorney of Trumbull County, this closed Judge Tod's public career. Upon the retirement from the cares and duties which had so completely filled so many years of his life, the aged jurist sought recreation in looking after his farm, to which he had given the name of "Brier Hill." This was appropriate on account of the abundance of briers then found there. The name remains, but in these latter days it represents a wealth of coal, and its material products are carried over a large part of the world. At a later date the farm passed into the more practical hands of his son David, and it still remains a possession of the family. It is now owned and occupied as the residence of George Tod, one of the sons of David Tod.

Judge Tod was married in 1797 to Sally Isaacs, who was a daughter of Ralph and Mary Isaacs. Their long and happy companionship lasted for forty-four years, broken by the death of .Tndge Tnd, in 1841. The wife sur\Hved until 1847.

statesmen, David Tod graduated from no oldestablished institution of learning. His inheritance of mental ability was great but to himself, alone, was due the wide knowledge and broad culture which made him the equal of the highest in his own or other countries, and the inherent manliness, integrity and devotion to country that gained him the admiration, esteem and affection of his fellow-citizens and installed forever his memory in their hearts.

In 1827 David Tod, after completing what was little more than an elementary education and spending some time in the study of the law, was admitted to the bar and entered into practice at Warren, when 22 years of age. A cotemporary, in considering the almost immediate success which met his efforts, analyzed the situation as follows: "His success at the bar was, in the main, due to his unsurpassed ability in the examination of witnesses and to his power in gaining and holding the confidence of the jury, which he did by a manifest frankness, fairness and earnestness, together with his clear statement of the argument." For about fifteen years Mr. Tod continued in the active practice of his profession and during this period he demonstrated that it was in him to become a great lawyer and that, with his large legal knowledge, wide experience, high sense of honor and unsullied integrity, he would have been eminently successful on the bench. Other elements entered into his life, however, and in other avenues he became distinguished, political affairs claiming many years of his life.

In the campaign of 1824 Mr. Tod first became an enthusiastic politician, following in the train of that popular hero, .Andrew Jackson, and he remained an ardent Democrat until the secession movement of 1861. In 1840 he campaigned through the state, using hia powerful oratory in the attempt to defeat General Harrison. The first political office to which he was elected was that of state senator, in 1838, and he grew so rapidly in public favor that in 1844 he was unanimously chosen by the Democratic party as its candidate for governor. Hon. Mordecai Bartley, the ^^Tiig

So prominent was his position by this time, that President James K. Polk, in 1847, felt justified in appointing him United States minister to Brazil. During his five-years' residence in that country he won many a quiet diplomatic victory which brought about a much better understanding between the two countries and reflected nothing but added honor upon him as the representative of the United States. It is a matter of record that upon his departure for his own country, the ruler of Brazil, in a parting address, took occasion to speak in the highest terms of Mr. Tod both as an individual and as a public official.

For the succeeding ten years Mr. Tod gave his attention mainly to business. He had taken charge of the family estates in 1841, and with remarkable business sagacity he entered into negotiations which later resulted in the developing of the great coal fields which have made Youngstown one of the noted industrial points in Ohio and incidentally brought about much of the prosperity of the Mahoning Valley. Mainly through his enterprise, the Cleveland & Mahoning Railroad was constructed, and he remained its president as long as he lived.

The next period of Mr. Tod's political activity belongs to the country's history. Secession was brought to light in 1860. He was made vice-president of the National Democratic Convention that met at Charleston, April 2.3d of that year, of which Caleb Cushing. of Massachusetts, was chairman. Every state was represented, there being 303 delegates, equaling the electoral vote. The strongest candidate was Stephen A. Douglas. The two-thirds rule for nomination prevailed. By a plank in the Douglas platform it was agreed to abide by the decision of the supreme court judges on the subject of the slave-code. The minority, or Douglas platform, was substituted and adopted, whereupon the Alabama delegation withdrew, and a majority of the delegate- from .\rkansas. Florida. Georgia,

After a week so spent the remainder of the convention proceeded to ballot under the twothirds rule, and Douglas was by far the strongest candidate, receiving as high as 152 1-2 votes several times, while 202 votes were necessary to a choice. The convention composed of those left after the seceders had withchrawn voted to adjourn to meet in Baltimore, Maryland, June 18th.

The seceding delegates met in a separate convention, elected James A. Bayard, of Delaware, their chairman, and after adopting the majority platform of the committee, postponed further action to June 10th, at Richmond, Virginia.

When the convention met at Baltimore, pursuant to adjournment, trouble arose about admitting delegates who had seceded at Charleston, or others who had been chosen in their place. During the discussion of this issue many delegates withdrew', among them being the chairman, Caleb Cushing. At this point Mr. Tod, with great presence of mind took possession of the deserted chair, and after an earnest appeal succeeded in restoring order. He was confirmed as chairman and the convention proceeded to its legitimate business, which resulted in the nomination of Douglas.

The members who had recently seceded invited the seceders at Richmond to join them, and John C. Breckinridge, of Kentucky, was nominated for president by them, and Joseph Lane of Oregon, vice-president.

A "Constitutional Union Convention" met May 10th, also at Baltimore, and nominated John Bell of Tennessee, for president, and Edward Everett, of Massachusetts, for vicepresident.