BlockBefore

Tuscarawas County, Ohio - Biographical sketches (2 of 2 so headed), 1884 (part 11 of 14)

From The History of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, published 1884. 15,944 words, reproduced complete and unedited. Source changes inside the text are labelled in place.

Parts

The book prints this as one long chapter. It is split here so no single page grows too heavy to load; the text runs continuously across the parts and nothing is omitted.

The text

15,944 words

Machine-read from scans of The History of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, published 1884. Nothing has been corrected: fixing what looks like a misspelled name is how an invented one gets published. Source changes are marked where they occur.

REZIN W. MYERS, farmer, P. 0. Sandyville, was bom in this State October 31, 1812, son of George and Susan Myers, who at a very early day emigrated from Pennsylvania and settled on Croxton's Run, near Steubenville, where they died. They had twelve children, and of this large family Rezin W. is the sole survivor. Two of the older boys served in the war of 1812. Rezin W. Myers was twice married. His first wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis Runyan, a native of New Jersey. They were married, June 27, 1833, and their six children, Sarah Ann, Luoinda A. , Caroline, Lorin, Jennie and Minerva are all living. He was married, the second time, in 1861, to Bertha, daughter of J. C. Moore. She is the only survivor of eight children. She is a lady of intelligence and judgment. By this second marriage, our subject has one son - Rezin Myers, Jr. Mr. Myers possesses a hardy constitution; is of strong physique, and has advanced with the times. He owns an excellent farm of 870 acres near the Sandyville depot, well stocked, and adorned with the handsomest brick residence in the township. He has been Trustee of the township; is a member of the Disciple Church and of the Democrat party.

D. K. NIXON, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania in 1810. Wheo a lad of five summers, he came to Sandy Township with his mother, Mary Anna (Lewis) Nixon. Our subject had three sisters, only one of whom is living - Mary Anna Perdue, of Newcastle, Penn. D. K. Nixon was married, October 3, 1833, to Lizzie A. Exline, daughter of Bernard and Julia A. (Beltz) Exline. Bernard Exline settled in Coshocton County in 1826, and there remained until death. His children were six in number, of whom three survive, Valentine, of Van Wert County; Solomon, of Hancock, Md.; and Mrs. Nixon, widow of D. K. Nixon. The six children of Mr. and Mrs. D. K.

Nixon are George, Orintha, William L. and Amanda, twins, Almon C. and Julia A. W'illiam L., is married to Dora E. Mahan, and lives in Abilene, Kan.; Amanda, died in 1875; Julia A. is married to Calvin G. Hawk, and lives in Abilene, Kan.; Almon C., who has charge of the home farm, and with whom his mother and his sister Orintha reside, was born March 7, 1848. He was married, December 3, 1873, to Rachel, daughter of John and Mar garet (Miller) Knotts, early settlers of Stark County. The family of Almon C. and Rachel Nixon consists of William E., born January, 1874; Ralph K., born June 9, 1870; John K., born July 7, 1878; and Anna, born February, 1881. Mr. Nixon is a Mason, and has a pleasant, intelligent family.

GEORGE NIXON, nurseryman and farmer, P. O. Sandy ville, was born in Sandyville February 25, 1836, and is a son of D. K. and Lizzie (Exline) Nixon. He received his education at Sandyville, Hagerstown Academy and Mount Vernon, all of Ohio. On the 5th of June, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of Canton, Ohio, under Capt. James Wallace, serving for three years. He was engaged at Rich Mountain, at Romney, Blues Gap, and at the first battle of Winchester. Part of his term of enlistment, he served on post duty near Washington, D. C. He was married, October 26, 1865, to Margaret, daughter of Joseph Painter, of Stark County. Of his seven children, six are living - Daniel K., Jessie L., Genevera G., Annie W. , Harold A. and Donald. Mr. Nixon has an excellent nursery near Sandyville, tilled with all kinds of shade and fruit trees. In politics, he is a Democrat. He is a member of Caldwell Lodge, No. 330, at Bolivar.

ROBERT RENDER, farmer and coal and lire clay miner, P. O. Mineral Point, was born in Sandy Township March 17, 1841, son of Francis and Elizabeth (Suttle) Render, natives of England. Francis Render was a fuller by trade, and in England lost a thumb in a picking machine. He emigrated to America and on the voyage two of his sisters died. Robert was married, September 6, 1861, to Mary J., daughter of Henry Sparks. They have had ten children, seven of whom are living - Sarah, Margaret A., Cora B. (died September 20, 1867), Alice A., Lillie M., Simon W., Mary E. (died Februarj* 8. 1879), Amanda E., Rebecca (died in 1871) and Robert C. Margaret A. was married March 9, 1882, to Theophilus Gordon, and has one child - Clara I. Mr. Render resides on his farm of 120 acres near Mineral Point. On his land is found an abundance of coal and fire clay, which he is continuously mining and shipping. In politics, he is Republican.

HUGH RUSSELL, farmer, P. O. Sandyville, was born December 17, 1809, in Wanesboro, Penn., and is a son of Hugh, Sr., and Nancy (Webb) Russell, who moved to Ohio in May, 1815, and settled in Stark County, afterward moving to North Industry. From there they came to Sandy Township, in the fall of 1817. There our subject's father and mother died. Their family numbered four children, of whom three are living, viz. ; Pointon, John and Hugh. The subject of our sketch was married three times. The first union was with Catharine, a daughter of Nathaniel and Sarah Shafer, natives of Pennsylvania. She died leaving four children, two of whom are living - William H. and Nathaniel. His second marriage was with Hannah Sowders, and by this union there were eight children, two of whom are living - Margret N. and Harriet B. His second wife dying, Mr. Russell married, May 23. 1871, Sarah J. McMurray, of Bolivar. By this union there was one child - Cora W. H. Russell was married to Frances J. Frelich, and their children are Samuel H., Nathaniel, Catharine, Martin O., Elizabeth, Hugh F. and Effie. Nathaniel has charge of his father's farm. He was married to Maria A. Stansbury. They have three children - William S., Hugh G and Mary L. Harriet B. keeps house for her father. Our subject has been Township Trust- ee, Township Clerk and Treasurer for several years. His brother, William Russell, who died in 1819, was the lirst one buried in Sandyville Cemetery.

JOHN SATTLER, farmer, P. O. Mineral Point, is a son of John and Elizabeth (Brodt) Sattler. John Sattler, Sr., was born in Germany in 1808, son of Jacob and Rosena (Yeagey) Sattler. He came to America in 1831, landing at New York May 11, after a voyage of forty-two days. His wife's father, Jacob F. Brodt, emigrated from Germany in 1833. and settled near Sandyville, where he died. Of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. John Sattler, Sr., three are living, viz., John, William and Charles E. John, the subject of this sketch, was married March 30, 1801, to Louisa, daughter of Joseph and Magdalena Liens. They have five children living, viz , Elizabeth, Jennie, Ida, Mary and Theodore. His brother William was married May 5, 1808, to Mary, daughter of Jacob Kugler, deceased. They have three children - Emma N., Maud E. and William F. Charles E., the other brother, was married in June, 1881, to Elizabeth Faltzley. They have one child - John Oscar. John, William and Charles all reside with their families on their father's homestead of 400 acres, which is excellent land and abounds in minerals. John Sattler, Sr., has in his possession a German Bible 150 years old, also a copy of Milton's "Paradise Lost" 109 years old, both leather bound with brass clasps, and of peculiar shape.

MARION D. SKEELS, of Mineral City, Ohio, is a son of Samuel and Matilda J. (True) Skeels, natives of Maryland, whose family consisted of twelve children, of whom the following survive, viz., Elizabeth, Henry C., Marion D., William O., Nancy J., Charles W., Mary E., Samuel E. and Ida. Marion D. was married, January 8, 1882, to Alice, daughter of Philip Black. They have one child - Curtis O. Mr. Skeels received a collegiate education; he is engaged in the practice of law, and is also Justice of the Peace. He is an active and safe dealer and enthusiastic in business. He is six feet in height, of strong physique, and has dark hair and eyes. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, is connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics affiliates with the Republican party.

DAVID SPEAKER, farmer, P. O. Sandyville, was born in 1802, son of David and Mary (Yeiser) Speaker, who died in Pennsylvania. David, our subject, was married July 1, 1828, to Jane Richey. Of their eleven children eight are living, viz., Mary A., Eliza J., Sarah A., Matilda E., Harriet, Benjamin F., George W and Margaret E. Mr. Speaker in 1840 came from Pennsylvania to his present farm. After the deatli of his wife, he was again married, May 27, 1852, to Mrs. Abigail Weaver, widow of B. F. Weaver, and daughter of John and Elizabeth Farber, who were among the oldest and best pioneers of the township. By her first marriage to B. F. Weaver, Mrs. Speaker had four children, two of whom, Joshua and John D., are living. The marriage of David and Abigail Speaker was blessed with two children - David F. and Annie E. (wife of Noah Fry). Mr. Speaker has served his township as Trustee and School Director. He has been successful in life, and owns 200 acres in the Tuscarawas Valley, near Sandyville. David F.. his son, born June 8, 1802, resides at home, and assists in the management of the farm. Mr. Speaker is an intelligent old gentlemen, with blue eyes and of ordinary size, and has had no education save what he received in the primitive log schoolhouses, lighted through greased paper windows. John D. Weaver, son of Franklin and Abigail (Farber) Weaver, was born April 15, 1849, and was married, November 3, 1868, to Mary, daughter of Samuel Cable, of Stark County. Their children are Samuel E., Bertha A., Julia B., Beatrice and Liew.

County in 1826, and here died, the former in 1841. the latter in 1827. Of their seven children, live are living, viz., Daniel, John, Solomon, Ambrose, and Lewis, our subject, who was married March 8, 1849, to Elizabeth Weaver, born September 19, 1827. Her father, Jacob Weaver, settled near Oneida, Carroll County, in 1840, and live of his seven children are now living - Philip, Jacob, David, Henry and Elizabeth. Lewis and Elizabeth Summers have been blessed with ten children - Emeline (now Mrs. B. Hunt), Amanda (now Mrs. P. Seaman), Philip (who married Mary Dewal), John, Margaret (now Mrs. H. Stahl), Daniel, Elizabeth (now Mrs. Charles Kugler), Sarah H., Phebe and Benjamin. Mr. Summers has lived in Sandy Township thirty-two years, and owns a fine farm of 200 acres, with an abundance of coal, the reward of his own industry, for he commenced life with nothing. In politics, he is Democratic.

EMANUEL G. SWEANEY, farmer, P. O. Sandy ville, was born February 5, 1843, the eldest son of William and Sarah (Beghtel) Sweaney. William Sweaney was born July 7, 1823, son of John and Loesa (Gump) Sweaney, who were natives of Maryland, and emigrated to Ohio, settling near Sandy ville, where they lived for many years, and died leaving seven children. William was married October 17, 1839, to Sarah, daughter of John and Mary Be htel, who had nine children, four of whom are living. The family of William and Sarah Sweaney consisted of seven children, five of whom are living, viz. : Emanuel G., William M., Sarah M. and Mary T., twins, and Amanda A., wife of Jefferson Newhouse. Mary T. is the wife of F. Weaver. Emanuel G., our subject, enlisted in 1864, for three years, or during the war, under Capt Charles Harger. He participated in the battles of Kenesaw Mountain, and at Nashville, Tenn. He passed through the conflict without a wound, and received an honorable discharge in 1865, but like most of his comrades the constant exposure injured his health, and he suffers from an affection of the throat. He was married, May 5, 1870, to Oseeania, daughter of George and Matilda Lechner. They have but one child. Emmet Grant, born January 23, 1871. Mr. Sweaney is a Republican in politics. His father was successful in business, and left ample means for his children. Emanuel G. possesses a portion of the old homestead, in the beautiful Tuscarawas Valley, upon which he has erected a neat and commodious residence.

WILLIAM M. SWEANEY, farmer, P. O. Sandy ville, was born December 18, 1844, and is a son of William and Sarah (Beghtel) Sweaney. He was married, March 2, 1870, to Margaret Cable, daughter of Samuel Cable. Four children have been born to them, viz. : Olive, born September 3, 1871; Ervin

S., bom January 26, 1873; Clyde C., born November 12, 1876. and Clementine A., born March 2, 1880. Mr. Sweaney also owns and occupies a portion of the rich inheritance received from his father, with its fine location, its substantial, modern buildings, and its high state of cultivation and beauty; his farm is a delightful country seat, supplied with all conveniences and natural advantages. In politics, Mr. Sweaney is Republican.

WESLEY M. TRACY, Mayor of Mineral City, was bora September 10, 1841, son of Nelson and Lucinda (Welch) Tracy, natives of Ohio. The family of Nelson Tracy consisted of twelve children. Wesley M. Tracy, in the fall of 1861, enlisted in the Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained in service eighteen months, receiving his discharge on account of a lingering disease. He was married, May 4, 1865, to Sarah, daughter of John Christ. Their family consists of three children - William E., Ada M. and Minnie A. Mr. Tracy was elected Justice of the Peace in 1868, and has served since. He is also clerk of the township, and Mayor of the village, and is a successful and leading citizen of Sand}' Township. He owns a farm south of Mineral City whereon is an abundance of iron, fire-clay and coal, which he is now mining.

E. VANKIRK, merchant, Mineral City, is the son of William and Lucinda (Wiley) Vankirk, the former a native of Ohio, the latter of Washington County, Penn. The early part of William Vankirk's life was spent in Wayne County, Ohio. He now lives in Medina County. His children were Eben, the subject of this sketch; David H., of Topeka, Kan.; Mattie E., of Canal Fulton, Stark County; and Sarah, of Denver, Colo. Eben was married, November 26, 1867, to Nancy E., daughter of John A. Ebev, who came to Ohio in an early day. and had in his family four children - John D., Mary C., Samuel and Nancy E. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Vankirk are Etfie L., Talithia H, Orlando D. and John W. Mr. Vankirk has been engaged for nine years at Mineral City in general merchandising, and has an excellent trade. He has been Township Treasurer for three years, and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the leading, enterprising citizens of the growing village of Mineral City.

W. F. WALTER, farmer and proprietor planing mill. Mineral City, was born December 23, 1849, son of George and Elizabeth (Wilson) Walter. George Walter is a native of Germany, his wife of Ohio. They reared a family of nine children - Mary, Louisa, Harry, Frank, Anna, Ada, John, Henry, and W. F., the subject of this sketch, who was married, December 31, 1876, to Anna E., daughter of Alfred Davis. Mr. Walter is one of the founders of the Mineral City Planing Mill, and is also a proprietor in the furniture manufactory. He is an enterprising young business man of Mineral City.

JOSHUA WEAVER, farmer, P. O. Magnolia, was born May 2, 1840, son of B. F. and Abigail, (Farber) Weaver, of whose four children two are living, Joshua and J. D. Mrs. Abigail Weaver is now the wife of David Speaker. Joshua Weaver was married, August 28, 1873, to Mary, daughter of William and Sarah Sweaney. Their children are William F. Sweaney and Milan A. Mr. Weaver has a tine farm of 147 acres. In one corner of it is the old family graveyard, walled in with cut stone three feet in height John Farber and wife, the maternal grandparents of our subject, lie buried here. On the farm is an excellent coal mine, from which coal has been taken for fifteen years. Mr. Weaver is of average height. His farm possesses good, modern buildings.

JAMES ALLISON, farmer, P. O. Winfield, was born in Lawrence Township, this county, in 1821, and is a son of William and Magdalene (Keller) Allison, natives of Pennsylvania, and very early settlers of this county, locating near the present site of the Zoar Society. The former enlisted during the war of 1812. They are both deceased, having lived long and, useful lives, and rendered much valuable service* in the development of the county. They left a family of six children, five of whom are now living, all in this neighborhood, with farms adjoining. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, and received a limited education. He made his home with his father till his marriage, although after his majority he was engaged in various pursuits, which took him away from home a great deal. During this time he followed cattledroving to Pennsylvania and Maryland, for six years. He also taught school for six terms in Oxford, Wayne, Lawrence and Dover Townships. In 1856, he was united in marriage with Sevilla Swalley, a native of Stark County, Ohio; and to this union there have been born seven children, four of whom are living -Frank W., Clara M., Charlie L. and John M. After working for one year, Mr. Allison bought the farm where he now lives. He has been industrious and successful, and has built up and added to his place until he now owns 875 acres of well cultivated land. He is a Republican in politics, and was formerly a Whig. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church.

WILLIAM ALLISON, farmer, P. O. Barr's Mills, was born March 16, 1824, in Lawrence Township, this county, and is a son of William and Magdalene Allison, whose biography is recorded elsewhere in this work. The family came to Sugar Creek Township when our subject was seven years of acre and he was here raised, attending the schools of those early times. He married, February 11, 1851, Eliza Bair, daughter of Jonas Bair, of Dover Township. Their family numbers ten children - Jonas, married to Miss Emma Rosenberr, living in this township, the parents of one child; John H., deceased at the age of twenty-one; Mary E., wife of Albert Froelich, living in this township, parents of one child; Jane, wife of Webster M. Bair; Magda lene wife of Washington Wallick, of Wayne Township, parents of three children; Clara, William, Albert and Washington, at home. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Allison settled on the place where they now live, which fs the old Allison homestead. They have here a line farm of 199 acres of well-improved land, and have been industrious and successful in life. Mr. Allison is one of the leading citizens of the township, a Republican in politics, and with his wife a momber of the Lutheran Church. He taught school for seven terms, from 1845 to 1854.

DANIEL ALLISON, farmer, P. O. Barr's Mills, was born September 4, 1834, in Sugar Creek Township, this county, and is a son of William and Martha Allison, whose biography is elsewhere. He was raised on a farm, obtaining a common school education, and lived with his father until his marriage, which took place January 23, 1858, with Miss Ouardi Richardson. To this union have been born four children - George F. (deceased at seven years of ao-e), Mary. May, Cora A. and Roberts. After their marriage they settled on the place where they now live, and have acquired a fine farm of 105 acres of wellimproved land with excellent buildings. Mr. Allison is a Democrat in politics He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. He is a reliable and

JONAS ALLISON, farmer and stock -dealer, P. O. Winfield, was born No vember 31, 1851, in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, and is a son of William Allison, whose history is recorded elsewhere. He was reared on a farm and obtained his education in the schools of the township. He was united in marriage, November 7, 1875, with Miss Emma Rosenberry, of Dover Township. They are settled on a farm near Mr. Rosenberry in this township. Here Mr Allison purchased a place of ninety -seven acres of land. They have one child - Blaine Allison. Mr. Allison is an ardent supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He is an energetic and ambitious young busi ness man, and a citizen of good influence and high standing in the community where he resides. - . ,, .

DANIEL BAIR, retired farmer ,P. O. Winfield, was born in 1813 mthis county His parents, Leonard and Eve Bair, natives of Pennsylvania, were very early settlers of this county, coming here in 1810. The county was then very new, Indians and wild animals abounding, but they took up a lease on a tract of 320 acres of land, which they cleared and developed into a home. The father died in 1826, the mother in 1839. Of their family of eleven children, only two are living - our subject and Esther, widow of Abraham Knaga. of Whitley County, Ind. Our subject was raised on a farm, and obtained his education in the' limited schools of those early days. In 1836, he was united in marriage with Sallie Welty, a native of this township. Mr. Bair lived on rented property for several years after his marriage, and then bought a farm, and by hard work and careful management has gradually increased it until the home place now comprises 176£ acres of well-improved land. They have one child - Esther Ann, who was married to Harmon Sheeler (deceased), by whom she had three children - Edward, George and Daniel. Mr. Sheeler died in 1870, and Esther is living with her father. Mrs. Bair died June 27, 1880. She was a member of the Lutherao Church, and was a faithful wife and kind mother. Mr. Bair is a life* long advocate of the Democratic party, and cast his first vote for Andrew Jackson. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

EPHRAIM A. BAKER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, August 12, 1834, and is a son of Henry Baker. He was reared on his father's farm and obtained a common school education in this township. For several years previous to his marriage, he was occupied in stock-raising. He married, February 11, 1863, Miss Catherine Byers, a native of the kingdom of Bavaria, Germany. Her parents emigrated to America, settling in Auburn Township, this county and State, when she was but a few months old. Her father died shortly after his arrival, but her mother still survives, and is a resident of Dover, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Baker have been bom four children - Ellen J., Edward B., James F. and John H. In 1870, Mr. Baker purchased seventy acres of the old homestead farm, and has since resided there. In politics, he is a Democrat; wus elected to the office of Township Trustee in 1877, and served in that capacity for five years, declining a re-election. He filled the office with satisfaction to the people and with credit to himself. He is an ardent friend to the cause of education, and the moral and intellectual development of the community in which he resides. He has an intelligent and interesting family who are in high social standing, and give promise of making useful citizens.

WILLIAM C. BAKER, farmer and Notary Public, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, this county and State, June 2, 1838. His parents, Henry and Anna Baker, natives of Somerset County, Penn., were immigrants to this township in the year 1812, and were married in 1832. They at once settled on the farm which Mr. Baker already owned, and which is still in the possession of their children. Mr. Baker departed this life in 1870, followed by his widow in 1872. They were pioneers belonging to that class of the original settlers whose indomitable energy and perseverance overcame all the difficulties and hardships incident to a new country. They left a family of eight children, all of whom survive, viz. : Henry, Ephraim, Elizabeth and

William C., of this township ; Andrew J., of Huntington County, Ind. ; Reuben H., of Holmes County, Ohio ; Margaret A., wife of David G. Pershing, of this township; and Mary C., wife of Jacob Steeg, of Boone County, Iowa. W. C. Baker, the subject of this sketch, was reared on his father's farm, and educated at the common schools of the township. He adopted the profession of teaching, and followed it for several years in this State and Indiana. He also dealt in live stock, in which business he visited the States in the W est and Southwest. In 1870, he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Leavengood, who was born in Auburn Township, this county and State. The results of this union have been five children, viz. : Margaret E., Franklin, Iola, Elnora and

Thomas J. After a residence of eight years in Auburn Township, Mr. Baker settled on a part of the old Baker farm, where he has since lived. He has served two terms as Township Assessor, and one term as Justice of the Peace, declining a re-election. He has also an appointment as Notary Public, which he has held for several terms, and does considerable public business as Convey- ancer, settling decedents' estates, etc. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is regarded as a leading business man and influential citizen of Sugar Creek Township.

DAVID BARR, miller, of the firm of David Barr& Son, Barr's Mills, was born in 1820, in Bedford County, Penn., and is a son of Henry and Susanna (Bixler) Barr, who emigrated to the neighborhood of Navarre, Stark County. Ohio, in 1822. Mr. Barr began the milling business when fourteen years of age, and continued it until his death in 1807 ; his wife died in 1863. The subject of this sketch learned milling under his father's instructions in Stark County, and at eighteen years of age took up the carpenter's trade, which he followed for about twenty years. He was united in marriage June 5, 1851, with Lavinia Tom, who was born in Stark County, Ohio. In 1807, he bought Walter's Mill on Sugar Creek, in this township, which name he changed to Barr's Mills. Here has grown up quite a village on the Connotton Valley Railroad. Mr. Barr was quite active in securing the railway, and gave liberally toward it In 1878, he took into partnership his son, W. M. Barr, under the firm name of D. Barr & Son. They have improved the machinery and building, and, by their enterprise and courteous treatment of their patrons, have built up a large custom. Mr. Barr is a Republican. He is the father of four children, viz.: Emma S. (deceased), wife of E. Henderson ; Webster M , Sarah E. and James. W. M. Barr was born in Stark County, Ohio, November 4. 1854. He learned the milling business with his father, and in 1878 engaged in partnership with him. He married Miss Jane Allison October 23, 1877. Their children are Ida N. (deceased), and Mila. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.

MARGARET (HOSELTON) BEYER, resident of Shanesville for seventeen years, was born in Maryland April 3, 1823. Is a daughter of Christian and Eva (Rohrer) Hoselton. Her parents were natives of Maryland, and in the autumn of the year, 1823, emigrated to Holmes County, Ohio. After living there twenty- two years, they moved to Dover Township, Tuscarawas County, and in 1800 to New Philadelphia. Here Mrs. Hoselton departed this life, at the advanced age of eighty -one and a half years. She was a member of the Lutheran Church, and was a lady of estimable character. In 1879, Mr. Hoselton moved to the State of Iowa, where he died, April 19, 1883, at the age of ninety-six years. He was also a member of the Lutheran Church, and much esteemed. He leaves a family of seven children, viz. : John, of Bloomington, III. ; Jacob, Davenport, Iowa; Margaret, our subject; Catherine, wife of Rev. J. W. Swick, Dayton, Ohio; Magdalene, wife of Isaac Gorsuch, Nokomis, 111. ; Eva, widow of Isaac Jones, New Philaelphia; and Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Smntz, of this county. The subject of this sketch was united in marriage, September 11, 1866, with Mr. John Bejer, a native of Pennsylvania. He was a merchant of Shanesville, and departed this life on August 10, 1875. Mrs. Beyer is an ardent advocate of woman suffrage, temperance and other reforms, embodying the advanced ideas of modern thought. She is a lady of intelligence and literary culture, and wields a strong influence in favor of the cause of truth, morality and justice - "yes! justice to all creatures, whether male or female."

DAVID G. BRUNER, dentist, Dover, Ohio, was born in the year 1829. His parents were then living in Fayette County, Penn., but came in their later years to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, remaining for two years, and finally proceeding to Defiance County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. The subject of this sketch was raised on his father's farm, receiving his literary education in the township, and afterward in the Normal School at Staunton, Penn. He came to Ohio and Sugar Creek Township, in 1851, and set- tied on the place be now occupies, immediately commencing the practice of his profession. He was married in 1853, to Miss Rachel A. Stout, a resident of Westmoreland County, Penn. To them have been born two sons, one of whom, Richard, is a wholesale druggist in Pueblo, Colo.; he has been an energetic, enterprising and successful business man, and has made a first class standing for himself among the citizens of that young and flourishing city. The other son, William, is a successful cattle-raiser, in El Paso County, Colo. Dr. Bruner took a course of studies in the science of dentistry in Pittsburgh, Penn., and has practiced ever since he came to this county. He is thorough and skillful in his chosen profession, and by his courteous treatment of his patrons and superior scientific attainments, has built up a large practice in this and adjoining counties. His work gives entire satisfaction to his customers, and is a recommendation to those who need the services of a skillful dentist. He takes great interest in the cause of education, and was engaged for some time in bis early life in teaching. He is a supporter of the Democratic party in politics, and is a member of the United Brethren Church.

JOHN BURKHALTER, painter and tanner, Shanesville, was born in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland, in 1832. His parents ended their days in the mother country. He came to America and to Shanesville, Ohio, when twenty years of age, and, having learned tanning in Switzerland, commenced working at that trade. On January 6, 1856, he was united in marriage with Miss Christina Burki, also a native of Switzerland, and to them have been born nine children - Frederick W., residing in Dover, Ohio; Mary L., wife of Jerome Weimer, of Barr's Mills; John H., Charles E., Benjamin F., Hannah A., Melissa, George W. and Dewitt C. In 1865, Mr. Burkhalter removed to Dundee, Ohio, and carried on a tan yard for twelve years, returning to Shanesville in

1878. He is a supporter of the Democratic party, and a member of the German Reformed Church. He has been a man of quiet industry and usefulness, and enjoys the respect of all his friends and neighbors.

J ACOB BURK Y, of the firm of Burkv & Troyer, druggists, Shanesville, was bom in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland, July 6, lo33, and is a son of John Burky. Our subject was educated in his native country and emigrated to the United States, coming to Holmes County, Ohio, in 1853. He began the study of the medical profession in early boyhood, and in March, 1863, engaged in the practice of medicine, living on a farm in Sugar Creek Township, where he also kept a small drug store. In 1859, he took a trip back to his fatherland, and on the journey there was appointed the ship's physician, the duties of which he discharged to the end of the voyage. On the 1st of September,

1879, he purchased Dr. Miller's interest in the drug store, becoming a partner with Mr. Troyer. The firm keep a first class, reliable stock of drugs, and have established a flourishing trade. Dr. Burky was united in marriage, June 9, 1881, with Miss Elizabeth Oswald, who was born in Holmes County, Ohio. He is one of the leading, intelligent men of Sugar Creek Township.

MICHAEL DEITZ, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co. , Ohio, in 1825, and is a son of Henry J. and Susan (Domer) Deitz. They were born in Somerset County, Penn., and came to this county in 1808, settling in this township in 1814 They were married in 1822, and immediately commenced clearing and developing a farm. The country was then very new, and they had to reclaim their land from the wilderness. They moved to a place near Shanesville, and acquired a comfortable estate after great industry and economy. Mrs. Deitz died in 1846, and Mr. Deitz afterward married Miss Eva Sink, also deceased. Mr. Deitz departed this life in 1873, dying very suddenly, probably from a stroke of apoplexy. He left a large family, of whom ten are living, their names as follows; Jacob, of Yreka, Cal.; Michael; Judy, wife of F. Biddle, Bedford, Ohio; Susanna, wife of J. Biddle, Nashville, Ohio; Catherine, wife of Henry Sheu, of Shanesville; Elizabeth, wife of Edward Lewis, Fredericksburg, Ohio; Sarah, wife of J. Shunk, Orville, Ohio; Mary M., wife of M. Blickensderfer, Shanesville; Josephine, wife of Mr. Swain, Nashville, Ohio; and Henry, of Stanford, 111. Our subject was reared on his father's farm and received a common school education. In 1850, he was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Shultz, a native of Shanesville, Ohio. To this union have been born six children, of whom five are living, viz., John H., who is married to Miss Thank McCormick, and had four children; George S., married to Mi6S Sevilla Goeber, and has one child; Michael M. , Charles and Herbert. Mr. Deitz has pursued farming and stock-dealing all his lifo. In 1869, he purchased the old Deitz homestead adjoining Shanesville. The property has never passed out of the Deitz family nor changed name since its entry from the Government. Mr. Deitz has been a life-long Democrat, and favors personal liberty of every citizen of the county. He encourages public education and every effort for the improvement of the community.

ABRAHAM G. DIETZ, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was bora in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, February 2, 1842, and is a son of George and Frances Dietz, natives of Pennsylvania. His parents came here in an early day, and took part in the struggles of this country for a develop ment from the wilderness. Our subject's grandparents were the original owners of the land he now occupies. The old folks have all passed 4o their final resting place. The number of the pioneers of this county, who, like them, have braved all the dangers of a new country, and whose indomitable energy overcame all difficulties in rescuing this fertile soil from the dominion of wild beasts and savages, is becoming less every year. The subject of this sketch was the tenth of a family of twelve children, of whom seven survive. He was raised on a farm and obtained his education in this township. He was married in 1868 to Miss Catherine Leavengood, also a native of this county, and to them have been born three children - Laura J., Margaret E, and Martha I. (deceased). On the decease of his mother, Mr. Dietz purchased seventy-nine acres of the old homestead, which he is now occupying. He supports the Democratic party, and. with his wife, belongs to the Lutheran Church. He is esteemed as one of the upright, reliable and influential citizens of Sugar Creek Township.

JOHN DOERSCHUK, teacher, job-printer and book-binder, Shanesville, was born in Goshen Township, Tuscarawas Co., .Ohio, January 1, 1841, and is a son of Jacob Doerschuk, whose sketch is elsewhere in this history. The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm, receiving his education in the schools of the district and afterward at New Philadelphia. During his boyhood he did some work in his father's blacksmith shop. When nineteen years of age, he began teaching in the schools of the township, and has followed that vocation during the past twenty-three years. He was united in marriage, September 29,1869, with Miss Mary Black, born in Leavittsvi lie. Carroll Co., Ohio, and departed this life October 14, 1870. He subsequently married Miss Mary, daughter of Rev. J. G. Zahner, D. D. (see his sketch). The results of this union have been five children, of whom four are living - Albert N., Earnest E., Annie B. and Louis A. Our subject has established a general job-printing and book-binding office in Shanesville, and has secured an extensive custom. He was elected Justice of the Peace in April, 1876, and discharged the duties of that office with justice and impartiality to all. During the term he received an appointment as Notary Public, and still retains that position. He has also done considerable professional work in settling

JOHN J. DOMER, of the firm of Doerschnk, Karl & Domer, Shanesville, was born in this township and county in 1854, and is a son of John and Maria Domer. Mr. Domer, Sr., died in 1860; his widow still survives, and is a resident of Shanesville. At the time of his decease, Mr. Domer left a tine farm, near th9 town, which has been divided among the widow and six children. Our subject is the youngest of the family, and was educated in the schools of the village. Here he also learned the trade of an iron-molder with J. B. Rowles. On October 11, 1877, he was married to Miss Sarah C. Wholf, a native of Coshocton County, Ohio. To them have been born three children - George L., Lloyd Levelle and Raymond. At the age of nineteen, Mr. Domer began teaching school, and has since pursued that vocation during the winter months. He gives good satisfaction to his patrons as an efficient teacher. In 1880, he purchased the interest of Mr. Ervin in the machine-shop and foundry, and has since been connected with the firm. In politics, he supports the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. By his industry and frugality, Mr. Domer has been successful in life, and is regarded as a gentleman of character and influence of high social standing.

MRS. CHARITY FERRIS, widow, Shanesville, was born in the year 1830, in Athens County, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Anna (McCune) Butt, both natives of Ohio, the former of this county. Mrs. Ferris was raised on a farm and enjoyed the usual advantages and pleasures of a farmer's daughter. In 1850, she was united in marriage with Charles Ferris, of Tuscarawas County. He was a son of John and Nancy (Campbell) Ferris, natives of Ireland, but early pioneers of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. He grew up in the town of New Philadelphia and learned the tinner's trade. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Ferris lived for two years in New Philadelphia, and then came to Shanesville, where he established a tin and stove trade. He was quite successful in his business and built up a flourishing trade. He departed this life on September 12, 1879. His death was very sudden, he dying from the effects of over-exertion and exposure to heated air while putting out the tire of a neighboring house belonging to Henry Goeler; he expired half an hour after his heroic and successful act. He was a kind husband and father, and an industrious and useful citizen, enjoying the esteem of the entire community in which he lived. Mr. and Mrs. Ferris raised a family of four children - Ellen F , wife of Lyman C. Wright; George H., of Dundee, Ohio; Joseph N., of West Point, Neb., and Emmett C., still at home. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and an advocate of the cause of temperance. She is a lady of strong principles and estimable character, and takes a deep interest in the welfare of her family. She is a worthy example of the faithful, conscientious mothers who have labored with patience and self-denial to bring up their children to useful manhood and womanhood.

FRANKLIN FISHER, manufacturer, and proprietor of the Sugar Creek Woolen Mills, Shanesville, was born in the year 1832, in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio. He is a son of Jonathan and Esther Fisher, the former of whom was a native of Maryland, and the latter born in Somerset County, Penn. They came to this county in 1830, and died leaving the following-named children; Daniel J., of Lakeville, St. Joseph Co., Ind.; Adeline, wife of E. Sho waiter ; Isaac, of Wawpecong, Indiana ; Eliza, wife of C. Zimmer, Newcomerstown, Ohio; Solomon, of Sugar Creek Township; Susanna, wife of J. Weidman, of Stark County, Ohio; and Lucinda, wife of C. Penrod, whose biography is also in this work. In 1833, Jonathan Fisher bought a small farm and erected a fulling mill. He gradually added to the work until it developed quite a large trade. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were industrious pioneer people, and left behind them a good record for honesty and integrity of character. Our subject was brought up to the trade of wool manufacturing by his father, and attended the common schools of the township. In 1801, he was married to Miss Sarah Grupt, who was also born in this township. This union has resulted in six children, viz.: Anna, Cora, Charlotte

(wife of Ira Wolf), Jonathan L., Joseph F., Susanna and Elwyn. In 1860, Mr. Fisher took charge of the woolen mills on his own account. He is very enterprising, and has improved the building and machinery and increased the * facilities for the business. By his close application and courteous treatment of his patrons, he has secured a large custom, extending even into the surrounding counties. The Shanesville Woolen Mills have a first-class reputation for honesty and good workmanship for many miles around. They buy wool and manufacture plain and fancy stocking yarn, satinets, cloth, cassimere, jeans, etc. Mr. Fisher intends to still further increase the facilities of his business, to keep up with the growing trade. He also owns the old homestead. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Ge.man Reformed Church. He is an ardent friend to the cause of education, and has given his children good educational advantages. He himself is well educated in both English and German. His children are bright and intelligent, and give promise of great usefulness in future years. Sugar Creek Township has no more upright, influential citizen than Franklin Fisher.

HENRY FROELICH, farmer, P. O. Barr's Mills, was bora in Rhine Bavaria, Germany, in 1830, and is a son of Henry and Margaret Froelich, the latter a daughter John Andrus Lanzer. They were married in Germany in 1824, and came to this county with their family in 1844. Mr. Froelich died January 14, 1872. His widow, who still lives, resides with her daughter, Mrs. Henry Schumacher, in Bucks Township. Our subject was raised on a farm, and obtained his education in Germany. Since he came here he has, by private study, obtained a pretty good knowledge of the English language. He lived with his father until his marriage to Miss Phebe Schumacher in 1852. She was also a native of Germany, but came here in infancy. Their family numbered eleven children, of whom eight are living, viz. : Phebe, wife of

Henry Widder; Albert, married to Henry Allison; Barbara, wife of Adam Lahrn; John, married to Mary Yanuey; Emma, wife of Lee Miller; William. Benjamin and Clara, at home. Mr. and Mrs. Froelich have been industrious and successful in life, and by their own hard work and good management have acquired a tine farm of 264 acres of well- improved land. He takes an interest in the culture of live stock, and has some full-blooded animals on his farm. In politics, he is a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Froelich and Josiah Stough built the cheese factory at Barr's Mills in 1883. It is now operated by Frederick Yon Gunten, a native of Switzerland, who has been in this country five years.

ERYIN FULTON, manufacturer, Shanesville, was born in Fayette County, Penn., in 1844. His parents, James C. and Margaret Fulton, were natives of Pennsylvania and came to this county in 1854. Mrs. Fulton died in 1873; her husband, who survives, is a resident of the State of Indiana and is seventy years of age. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood days on a farm and for his education attended the common schools. In 1863, he was married to Miss Sarah A. Wertman, who was born in Bedford County, Penn. ; her parents, Jacob and Sarah Wertman, are two very old residents of Tuscarawas County. To Mr. and Mrs. Fulton have been born two children - George W. and William S. Mr. Fulton farmed during his early years, but soon went into the lumber business and spent fifteen years (1863 to 1878) in Defiance

County, Ohio, getting out lumber. He still owns a saw mill, which he is now setting up in the town. His principal interests are centered in the brick and tile mill which he owns and operates. The mill embodies the very latest improvements, and is the only one of its kind in Tuscarawas County. Mr. Fulton is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the United Brethren Church. He is energetic and enterprising, and by his own efforts has made a success in life.

CHRISTIAN GRAF, tanner, Shanesville, was born in the canton of Berne, Switzerland, December 31, 1835. His parents ended their days in their mountain home in the mother country. Odo of the sons is at present Principal of the city school of the capital. The family are all scattered; four of them are in the State of Ohio. Our subject emigrated to America in 1854. and worked for thirteen months in Virginia, and then traveled for two years as a journeyman tanner, visiting the cities of St. Louis, New Orleans (during the yellow fever epidemic in 1855), Chicago and Milwaukee. In 1858, he came to Shanesville, where he has since remained. He was married, February 9, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth Zimmerman, also a native of Berne, Switzerland. To this union were born six children, of whom three are living - Emma, wife of John Davy, Mineral Point, Ohio; Hattie, teacher, Rowville, Ohio, and Mary, at home. Mrs. Graf died on February 9, 1873. She was a member of the German Reformed Church, and was a faithful wife and kind mother. Mr. Graf subsequently married Miss Maggie Norigan, a native of Harrison County, Ohio, and by this union has had one child - Norrie. Our subject has been engaged in tanning ever since his residence here. He now owns the only tannery in the town of Shanesville. He carries on an extensive business, and has a large custom from the neighboring counties. He is a member of the German Reformed Church, and in politics is a Democrat.

JACOB GROH, wagon-maker, Shanesville, was born in Rhine- Prussia October 17, 1831. His parents, John and Margaret Groh, emigrated to this country, and passed their last days in Auburn Township, Tuscarawas County. They were industrious, honest people, and died having the respect of all who knew them. Our subject obtained his education in the fatherland, and in 1852 came to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, living for two years each in Ragersville and Dundee, thence coming to Shanesville, where he has since resided. He was married, March 9, 1856, to Miss Elizabeth Schlarbs, also a native of Germany. To this union have been born ten children, viz., Clara (wife of John Hachtel), Amelia, John, Jacob, Frederick, Anna, Lottie, Alice, Victoria and Robert. Mr. Groh supports the principles of the Democratic party, and, with his wife, is a member of the German Reformed Church. They have given their children good educational advantages, both literary and musical. Mr. Groh carries on a general wagon and carriage and repair shop, and has a good trade, which he has established by his reputation for good, honest workmanship. He and his wife have raised a large family of intelligent and moral young people, who reflect much credit upon their parents.

ISAIAH J. HARRIS, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, April 25, 1853. He is a son of Jacob and Sarah Harris, who were among the early settlers of this county. Jacob Harris died August 8, 1877; his widow survived him and is living with Isaiah. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, and obtained his education mainly in the schools of the home district; this he has since improved by his habits of private study and observation. January 5, 1879, he was united in marriage with Miss Ida J., daughter of Henry Baker, Jr., whose sketch is given elsewhere in this work. To this union have been born two children - Millie and William H. Mr. Harris has settled on the old homestead, and is taking a tender care of his aged mother. He has a fine farm of 196 acres of well-improved land, nicely situated on the Shanes vi lie and Dover roads. He is a Democrat in politics, and at present is School Director of his district. He takes a deep interest in the welfare of his county, and encourages all efforts for the moral and intellectual improvement of the community where he resides.

JONATHAN HIXSON, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., August 27. 1813. His parents, Amos and Mary Hixson, came in the year 1822, with two other families, in a boat down the Youghiogh9ny and Ohio Rivers to Marietta, Ohio, thence up the Muskingum and Tuscarawas to Coshocton County, and then by wagon to Tuscarawas County. They then commenced earning their livelihood by working in the woods, and acquired an extensive estate. They were industrious pioneer people, and have both passed to their final resting-place. The subject of this sketch was retired on a farm, and educated in the schools of this township; for one term he taught school, giving satisfaction to his patrons. He was married in 1838 to Miss Mary Helwig, of Dover Township, and by her had two children - Rebecca (living in Kokomo, Ind.) and James (deceased). After five years of married life, Mrs. Hixson died. Mr. Hixson subsequently married Mrs. Catherine Mossholder, a native of Fayette County, Penn., by which union there have been eleven children, viz., Luther, of Boulder City, Colo. ; Mary, wife of S. H. Mathews, Iowa; Elmira C. ; Jacob, living in Terrell, Tex.; Joseph A., of Nebraska; Samuel, of Nebraska; Albert; Emma, deceased, wife of William Kerns; Martha, Jonathan and Curtis E. Mrs. (Mossholder) Hixson has, by her first husband, one daughter, Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Yarns, having a family of eight children. They reside in Craig, Holt Co., Mo. Mr. Hixson bought the farm on which he is residing in 1853. He has been industrious and successful in life, and has acquired eighty-nine acres of well-improved land. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has held the position of Deacon and Elder at different times for many years. He is a Republican, but has never sought political prominence.

BENJAMIN B. HOCHSTETLER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Dover Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, September 1, 1823. He is a son of Benjamin and Catherine Hochstetler, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio about 1810 and settled in Dover Township. In 1837, they removed to Sugar Creek Township, where Mrs. Hochstetler died in 1840, aged about fifty -eight years. Mr. Hochstetler then removed to near Winesburg, Ohio, where he died in 1852. They were honest, industrious pioneers, and pious members of the Ornish Church. Our subject was brought up on a farm, and educated both in the English and German languages. At the age of eighteen, his father gave him the rights of manhood, when he took a trip to Indiana, which was then quite new, and stayed several months, returning by way of the W. & E. Canal, Lake Erie & Ohio Canal, those being the principal modes of travel at that day. In . 1846, he was united in marriage with Magdalene Garber, a native of Holmes County, Ohio, and by her has had seven children, now living, viz.: Elizabeth, wife of Noah Neff; Susan, widow of B. R. Hochstetler; Christian, of Auburn Township; Noah, Isaac and Hiram. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs Hochstetler settled in Sugar Creek Township, and have acquired a farm of 154 acres of well- improved land. The Connotton Railroad passes through the land. Mr. Hochstetler was Democratic until the Kansas troubles occurred, since which he has been a Republican, but during the past two years has taken no part in politics. He with his wife and most of the family are members of the Ornish Church. He is retired from active business, and is enjoying the remainder of his years in the quietude of his home.

BENJAMIN I. HOCHSTETLER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, December II, 1828. His parents, Isaac and Barbara (Miller) Hochstetler, natives of Pennsylvania, were early settlers of this county. They had lived for three years previous to their coming here in Holmes County, near the Tuscarawas County line, and died in this county at the ages of sixty-eight and seventy -seven years. They were industrious pioneer people, and left a family of ten children, viz. : Benjamin I.; Frances, wife of John Yoder; Moses L; Susannah, wife of Absalom King; Rebecca, deceased, wife of Eli Miller; Jacob; Jonas; Elizabeth, wife of Benjamin Fenser; Eli; Mary, deceased, and Mattie, wife of John Weaver. The subject of this sketch was raised on his father's farm, and educated in English and German. After attaining his majority, he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for several years. He was married. December 6, 1852, to Barbara Garber, a native of Holmes County, Ohio, and to them have been born two children - 'William, living on his father's farm, and Polly Ann, wife of William Schrock, of this township. In 1865, Mr. Hochstetler purchased the old family homestead, on which he is now residing. He has been industrious and persevering, and has acquired an improved farm of 160 acres, sixty of which he has given to his son. He is an advocate of the Republican party, and at present is Trustee of his township. He and the family are members of the Omish Church.

MOSES L HOCHSTETLER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in this township and county on October 5, 1834, and is a son of Isaac and Barbara Hochstetler, natives of Somerset County, Penn. His parents settled in Tuscarawas County about 1815. Our subject's grandfather belonged to the Omish Church, and was one of the first of its members who came to this township. He entered what has since been known as the Hoselton farm, in Dover Township. The subject of this sketch is the fourth child of a large family, and was brought up on a farm, receiving a common school education in this township. In 1853, he was married to Miss Susanna, daughter of Jacob D. Miller, of this county. The result of this union has been eleven children, viz. : Catherine, wife of Cornelius Neff; Jacob, of the Shanesville Planing Mill; Fannie; Salome, wife of A. C. Miller; Albert, Emanuel, Leah, Sarah Ann, John, William H. and Amanda. Mr. Hochstetler purchased his farm in 1876, the land being well improved and amounting to ISO acres. He is a Republican, and has served his township as Trustee for four years. He and the family are members of the Omish Church. He is a man of intelligence and enterprise, with a firm integrity of character.

BENJAMIN D. HOSTETLER, farmer and stock dealer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, November 28, 1841, and is a son of Daniel Hostetler. He was raised on his father's farm, and obtained a common school education in Sugar Creek Township, his father having located here when Benjamin was a small boy. Our subject was married on January 4, 1866, to Miss Si^an, daughter of Jacob Herner (deceased). This union has resulted in six children - Amra, Elmore, Altine, Prudence, Belle Mina and Curtis. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hostetler settled on the farm which they now occupy, comprising ninety acres of well-improved land. Mr. Hostetler devotes most of his time to rearing stock. He is an enterprising and successful young business man. In politics, he supports the Democratic party. He encourages the moral and intellectual improvement of the community, and is giving his family good educational advantages, both literary and musical.

RUDOLPH HOSTETLER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, January 27, 1845, and is a son of Daniel Hostetler. Our subject spent his boyhood on a farm and at- tended the common schools of the township. On August 23, 1873, he was* married to Miss Lucinda, daughter of Abraham Deitz, of this township. To them have been born four children - Wilson P., Alvin J., Anola, and one who died in infancy. After marriage, Mr. Hostetler lived with his father for three years, subsequent to which he bought his present farm, consisting of eighty acres of improved land. He is an advocate of the Democratic party, and takes a deep interest in the cause of education and all public improvements. He is an upright and reliable business man, and an influential citizen of Sugar Creek Township.

JOHN J. KARL, machinist. Shanesville, was born in Rhine-Pfaltz in Bavaria. He was educated in the Fatherland and emigrated with his father's family to Ohio, coming directly to Tuscarawas County in 1850. Here he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed about five years, and then went to Belleville, 111., where he learned the machinist's trade. In 1859, he returned to this county and settled in Shanesville, where he has since resided. He was married, January 4, 1803, to Miss Annie E. Blickensderfer, a native of this county, and daughter of Joshua Blickensderfer. To them have been born six children - Laura A., Harry E., Carrie E., Benjamin P., Idella M. and Jessie W. In 1879, Mr. Karl entered the firm Doerschuk, Karl & Erwin, the general machine and repair shop, located on front street. In 1881, Mr. Er win sold out his interest to Mr. John Domer, who is still, a member of the firm. * They make plows and a general line of castings, repair all kinds of farm implements and are agents for various articles of agricultural machinery. Mr. Karl supports the Democratic party and attends the Lutheran Church. He encourages all intellectual and moral improvement, and has given his children good educational advantages. His daughter, Laura, is at present teaching ihesummer term in the Shanesville School. Mr. Karl is regarded as an upright, reliable business man, and an influential citizen of Sugar Creek Township.

HENRY KERCH, farmer, P. 0. Shanesville, was bora in Rbine-Beyer. Germany, September 29, 1833. His father died on the trip from Germany to* America, and the widow then brought the family to Holmes County, Ohio, landing in 1830. There our subject was reared and educated. His mother died in 1850, and in the following year he was united in marriage with Mis& Melvina Schrack, of Holmes County. They lived some years in Tuscarawas County, and again in Holmes County, finally settling on their present farm near Shanesville, Tuscarawas County. They have six children living, viz.. Louis, Philip, John H., Mary A., Amanda J. and Clara E. Mr. Kerch kindly gave his children their rights of manhood and womanhood at eighteen years of age, and paid them for all services rendered him after that age. He has & bright, ambitious family of children, who give promise to make useful citi zens. He has been industrious and successful in life. Fromjhe time be was fourteen, for ten years, he worked at the shoe -maker's trade; when twenty- four years of age, he bought land and commenced developing a home. He has. now a fine farm of ninety-one acres of land, adjoining the town of Shanesville. and has erected fine and commodious buildings on the place. He is a Democrat in politics, and he and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. He encourages education, and has given his family good, liberal advantages. In business, he is regarded as upright and reliable; and is an influential citizen of Sugar Creek Township.

WILLIAM KOCH, cabinet-maker and furniture dealer, Shanesville, was^ born in Wittenberg, Germany, September 27, 1835. He obtained his education in his native country, and emigrated to the United States, coming to* Shanesville on April 16, 1852. He here learned his trade with George Froehlich, and soon after established a shop which he has been carrying on ever since, a period of twenty-six years. He has secured a good custom, built up by good work and honest dealing. On March 28, 1858, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Froelich, a native of Shanesville. This union has resulted in ten children - Robert, Allen, George, William. Emma, Laura, Della, MiDnie, Alma and Clara. He is a member of theA German Lutheran and his wife of the German Reformed Church. In politics, he votes for the Democratic ticket. Besides his cabinet shop, he keeps an undertaking establishment, the only one in the town, and has a finely equipped hearse, purchased in Cincinnati. His son Allen is a cabinet-maker, and was bom September 13, 1861, in the town of Shanesville, where he was reared and educated. He is conversant with the English and German languages. He was brought up to the cabinet- making trade from boyhood by his father, and since his majority has worked in his father's establishment. He is an intelligent, upright, reliable young man, and has great influence among the young men of the community where he resides. He is a member of the German Reformed Church, and supports the principles of the Democratic party.

JACOB KRIEG, teacher, and Justice of the Peace, Shanesville, was born June 28, 1845, in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland, and is a son of John and Barbara Krieg. In 1851, the family emigrated to America, the father dying on the way; the rest came direct to Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Mrs. Krieg departed this life May 30, 1878. Our subject received his education in Tuscarawas County common schools. He began teaching in his eighteenth year, which has been his principal occupation ever since. Our subject was united in marriage, June 23, 1872, with Miss Rebecca Domer, a native of Tuscarawas County, and a daughter of John and Maria Domer. Mr. and Mrs. Krieg have a family of four children living - Samuel, Ellen, Mary and Homer. Mr. Krieg is a Democrat. He has served as Township Trustee, and was elected Justice of the Peace at the last spring election. He is a member of the German Reformed Churoh, and supports all efforts conducive to the public prosperity.

DANIEL J. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Winfield, was bom in Sugar Creek Township, this county and State, on March 6, 1831, and is a son of Jacob D. Miller. His father was born in Somerset County, Penn., and came to this county about 1822. He was subsequently married to Catherine Mills, and in 1832 bought, at a Government land sale, the place in this township where he ever after lived. Here he developed his home, raised a large family, and in business was quite prosperous, leaving a fine estate to his descendants. Mrs. Miller departed this life in August, 1876, followed by Mr. Miller in 1881. They were both quite advanced in years, and were members of the Omish Church, well respected as honest pioneer people. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and educated at the schools of his district. In 1854, he was united in marriage with Miss Martha Garber, a native of Tuscarawas County. Of their seven children bom, five have survived, viz., Lavinta (wife of Daniel Mans), Eliza (widow of George Stutzman, who was killed at a boiler explosion at New Carlisle, Ohio), William H. (married to Miss Fannie Stutzman and living at home), Gideon and Laura J. Mr. Miller is an adherent of the Democratic party; he and his wife are members of the Omish Church. His farm consists of 157 J acres of well improved land, all nicely situated; it is part of the farm known as the old Miller farm since 1832.

TOBIAS J. MILLER, farmer and mechanic, P. O. Winfield, was born May 15, 1844, on the place where he now lives, Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio. He is a son of Jacob D. Miller. (See biography above.) Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the schools of his township. In 1864, he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Schneider, a

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHESnative of Switzerland. To them were born live children, viz., Samuel, Malinda, Jacob, John and Purley. Mrs. Miller departed this life March 8, 1872. She was a true, faithful wife, and a kind, devoted mother, her death being a sad loss to her husband and her little ones.' She was a pious member of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Miller subsequently married Miss Malinda Mizer, by whom he has had live children - Wesley, Orbie, Jennie M., Belle and Matilda. In 1873, he bought the old homestead of his father, and has been living there ever since. Besides his regular occupation as farmer, he does considerable business in building barns, which trade he learned in 1801. He is a skillful mechanic, and has built some very substantial structures. In politics, he is a Democrat His wife is a member of the United Brethren Church. He encourages the cause of education, giving his family many advantages, and is esteemed and respected as one of the upright and reliable business men.

WILLIAM MILLER, proprietor of Miller's Mill, P. O. Shanesville, was born on the farm he now occupies in Sugar Creek Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, November 7, 1830. He obtained his education from the schools of the township, and was brought up to the trade of a miller. In 1858, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Christian Strome, Sr., of this county. To this union have been born three children, viz., Leander (married to Miss Emma Froelich, and living on his father's farm), Franklin (residing in Dover, Ohio) and Flora J. (wife of William C. Rosenberry, living on Mr. Miller's farm). In about 1860, Mr. Miller, in connection with his brother, Henry J., bought out Miller's mill, and were joined some years after by Henry Baker, and subsequently by Allen Richardson. Mr. Miller finally bought out the whole property, and has since retained the ownership of it. It is one of the oldest mill sites in the county, and Mr. Miller has made many important improvements in the building and machinery. He has built up an extensive custom by his fair dealing and courteous treatment of his patrons. Adjoining the mill site, he owns a farm of sixty acres of improved land. He holds the office of Justice of the Peace, and in business has earned a reputation for honesty and integrity.

SOLOMON P. MILLER, merchant and Postmaster, Barr's Mills, was born September 1, 1843, in Westmoreland County, Penn., where his parents, Joseph and Hannah (Long) Miller, still reside. He enlisted, September, 1862, in the Sixty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was in the bat ties of the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, Fisher's Mill and others. He was a prisoner of war at Libby Prison and at Belle Isle, and received an honorable discharge June 23, 1865. On January 25. 1866, he married Miss Elizabeth C. Conkle, of Westmoreland County, Penn., which union has resulted in five children, viz.: James M., Joseph C., Cyrus C., Harry E. and Alta May. He moved to Ohio in 1867, and in 1877 he established a general store at Barr's Mills. Here he has a very full, general stock, and does a prosperous business. He holds the appointment of Postmaster also. He is a Republican in politics, and he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church at Shanesville, of which church he is one of the trustees. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is one of the enterprising and influential citizens of Tuscarawas County.

AARON T. MILLER, physician, Shanesville, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, April 9, 1855, and is a son of Tobias Miller, a farmer of that county. Our subject spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, receiving his education in Holmes County, and in the high school at Berlin, Ohio. In 1875, he came to Shanesville and entered upon the study of medicine under his half brother, Dr. N. W. Yoder. After taking the regular course of private study, he attended lectures at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and

Surgery. He received bis degree of Doctor of Medicine, February 22, 1879, and returning to Shanesville, at once engaged in the practice of his profession. He was united in marriage, July 20, 1878, with Miss Mary C., daughter of Michael Schott, of Shanesville, whose sketch is given in this work. To this union has been born one child - Irma. The Doctor supports the principles of the Republican party, but believes in independent personal judgment in the affairs of the nation. He and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church, and both encourage all efforts for the intellectual and moral improvement of the community where they reside. The Doctor is successful in his profession and has built up an extensive practice. His genial and courteous treatment, as well as his superior scientific attainments, makes him a general favorite.

JOHN MORGENTHALER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in the year 1848, in the Canton of Born$, Switzerland, and came to this county with his parents at four years of age. His father, Samuel Morgenthaler, died in New Philadelphia, Ohio, about a year after their arrival. The widow, Mrs. Mary Morganthaler, is now a resident of New Philadelphia. When six years old, our subject went to live with Mr. David Thomas, where he made his home until twenty-six years old. Here he learned the ordinary duties of a farmer boy and attended the schools of the district. He was married, October 1, 1874, to Miss Eva Putt, a daughter of George Putt. She also had her home with Mr. Thomas from early childhood. To Mr. and Mrs. Morgenthaler have been born four children - Clara May, Anna M., Ella J. and Thomas E. After his marriage, Mr. Morgenthaler rented a farm of Mr. Thomas for three years, when he bought his present place of seventy- four acres. The land is wellimproved and has good farm buildings. He is industrious and successful, and is prospering well in life. In politics, he is an adherent of the Democratic party. He and his wife encourage the cause of education and intend giving their children good advantages.

JONAS PENROD, blacksmith, Shanesville, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, September 18, 1832, and is a son of Solomon and Catherine Penrod. His parents came to Tuscarawas County about 1853. His father died in 1880, but his mother is still surviving, and is a resident of Sugar Creek Township, with her two daughters, Drusilla and Elizabeth. Our subject was raised on a farm, and began to learn his trade when twenty years of age, with his brother Henry. In 1855, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Sneider (deceased), who was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, and died in December, 1889. To them were born five children, viz.: Thomas J., married to Theresa Emil ; John H., married to Amanda Seiffe ; Isaac N., Anna C. and William A. (deceased). Mrs. Penrod was a member of the German Baptist Church, and was a faithful wife and kind mother. Mr. Penrod afterward married Mrs. Sarah Wolf, by whom he had two children - Burton R. and Noah W., both deceased. For fifteen years, Mr. Penrod was in partnership with his brother in carrying on a blacksmith shop. After the decease of Henry, he purchased the shop and has since continued it alone. He has a first-class trade secured by his courteous treatment of his customers, and by his honest workmanship. In politics, he supports the principles of the Democratic party, and has been School Director for twenty-one years. He is an earnest member of the German Baptist and his wife of the United Brethren Church. At the building of the Union Church in Shanesville, he was on the committee of solicitation, and since its completion has been on the Board of Trustees.

CHRISTIAN PENROD, butcher, Shanesville, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, in 1842, and is a son of Solomon and Catherine Penrod, the former of whom is deceased. Our subject was raised on a farm, and educated at the common schools. On February 11, 1866, he was united in marriage with Lu> cinda, daughter of Jonathan and Esther Fisher, natives of Pennsylvania, and old pioneers of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Mrs. Penrod was the youngest of a family of nine children. To Mr. and Mrs. Penrod have been born four children - Robert F., Elgie E., Henry Howard andElva May. Mr. Penrod's chief occupation through life has been that of a butcher. He has the only butcher shop in the town of Shanesville, and enjoys a good trade both in the town and country, which he has built up by his fair dealing and courteous treatment of his customers. In politics, he supports the Democratic party, and has held the office of Township Assessor for several years. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church.

DAVID G. PERSHING, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Auburn Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, March 22, 1841. His parents are George and Catherine Pershing, also natives of this county. Our subject was brought up on a farm, and attended the common schools of this township. He was married, October 21, 1867, to Miss Margaret, daughter of Henry Baker, of this township. To this union have been born five children, viz. : Carrie, Allen,

Thomas, Homer and George. In 187 4, Mr. Pershing bought - the farm on which he is residing, which consists of eighty acres of cultivated land. In politics, he supports the principles of the Democratic party, and now holds the position of Trustee of the township. He is an upright, reliable business man, and one of the influential citizens of Sugar Creek Township.

JOHN RESLER, farmer, P. O. Barr's Mills, was born November 5, 1820, in Fayette County, Penn. , and is a son of David and Rachel (Barrett) Resler. They came to this county about the year 1833, and settled in Sugar Creek Township, passing their last days on the farm now occupied by Chris Burkey. The father died in 1850, the mother on February 22, 1856, leaving seven children surviving out of their family of nine. Five are now living - Jacob, of Christian County, 111.; Mary, wife of William Jacob; and Frederick, of the same county; Susanna, wife of Jacob Aleshouse, of Daviess County, Ind., and the subject of this sketch. John, our subject, was married, August 4, 1840, to Barbara Aleshouse. After occupying various places in the neighborhood until 1847, he bought the place where he now lives, which was comparatively new when he moved to it. He has improved and furnished it with first class buildings. Starting out almost entirely on his own resources, he has, by his industry and successful management, acquired a property of 139 acres of well improved land. Mr. and Mrs. Resler are the parents of nine children - David (deceased), Phebe, Anna (deceased, wife of Joseph Kretzinger;; Isaac; Jacob; Daniel, John H., Mary J., wife of J. Rosenberry, and Joseph H. In politics, Mr. Resler holds independent views, always aiming to vote for the best man. His son, David, enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Twentysixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the rebellion, and died for the cause. Mr. Resler and his wife are members of the Evangelical Association, located at Pleasant Valley in this township. Mr. Resler has led a useful, active life, and is respected as one of the upright and reliable business men.

THOMAS RICHARDSON, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born February 23, 1845, in Sugar Creek Township, this county and State, and is a son of George and Barbara (Walter) Richardson, also natives of this county (see their biographies in this work). The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, obtaining his education in the schools of the township. His father died when he wa9 seven years of age, which event threw the boys on their own resources, making them more independent and self-reliant. At eighteen years of age, our subject went to Defiance County, Ohio, remaining about a year and a half, when he returned home and adopted the profession of teaching. He took up School District No. 7. He has now taught twenty terms of school, all in the immediate neighborhood, seventeen terms being in four districts of this township. He has been a successful and efficient teacher, and has left his influence on th^ minds and characters of many of his pupils who have gone out in the world, and are now filling important positions of honor and trust. Mr. Richardson was married, March 19, 1865, to Miss Melinda, daughter of Jesse Winkelpleck, whose sketch is given elsewhere in this work. To this union have been born two children - Iona Alice and Jesse E. Mr. Richardson has been industrious and successful in life, and has, by his own efforts, acquired a farm of ninety-eight acres of land. In politics, he supports the Democratic party. With bis wife, he is a member of the Lutheran Church. He takes deep interest in education, and is giving his children good advantages, both literary and musical.

MICHAEL SCHOTT, manufacturer of carriages and wagons, Shanesville, was bom in Wurtemberg, Germany, Novemher 20, 1833. His father died while he was in his tenth year. He was educated in the f atherland, and in 1848 came with his oldest brother to America, locating in Winesburg, Holmes County, Ohio, where he lived a year and a half; thence coming to Shanesville. Here he finished learning his trade with Louis Lawbaugh in 1851. He was married August 10, 1853, to Miss Mina Fisher, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany. To them have been born fourteen children, of whom eight survive - Henry, Albert, Mary (wife of Dr. A. T. Miller), Emma (wife of Arthur Krakan), Anna, Mina, Hattie and Lillie. In 1859, Mr. Schott established the business which he now carries on. He does a general custom blacksmithing and repair work, manufacturing carriages, buggies and wagons. He has one of the most extensive establishments in this line of business in the county, and has a reputation for first-class work. In 1882, at the fair of the Agricultural Association, his display took the first premium. His manufactured goods go out in several of the surrounding counties. In politics, he supports the Democratic party, and is a member of the German Reformed Church. He has built up his present large business and his position in society entirely by his own efforts.

ANDREW SCHROCK, farmer, P. O. Barrs Mills, was born in 1837, on the farm which he now occupies in this township, and is a son of Andrew and Sarah (Hostetler) Schrock. His father, a native of Germany, came to Pennsylvania at three, years of age; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania. They came to this county in very early times, and were married here on the farm where our subject lives, where they died and are buried. They reared a large family, and were members of the Ornish Church. Our subject lived with his father until his marriage, in 1858, with Miss Nancy King, who was born in Wayne County, Ohio. After their marriage, they lived near Shanesville for several years. They bought a place of ninety-eight acres, near Jesse Winkelpleck's, but in 1876 moved to the old Schrock homestead. They have six children living, viz., Harvey, Emanuel, Noah, Emeline, Levi and Mary Magdalen. Mr. Schrock is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife are members of the Ornish Church. They are good, industrious people, and are influential citizens of the county.

EPHRAIM SHOW ALTER, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born June 12, 1823, on the farm he now occupies in Sugar Creek Township, and is a son of John and Elizabeth Showalter. His father was born in Bucks County, Penn., and was raised in Westmoreland County. He came here in 1S08, and he and Jacob Walter settled here and began clearing up a farm. They did their own cooking, and obtained their bread and other provisions from Mr. Knisely, three mile6 west of Dover, Ohio. About 1812, he married Elizabeth Thomas, a native of Maryland, but raised partly in this county. They died on the farm they had settled on, leaving a family of nine children, viz., Anna M. (deceased), wife of David Lower; Isaac (deceased), married to Mary Harrington; Ephraim, our subject ; John T. (see his biography); Catherine (deceased), wife of C. Zimmer; Elizabeth (deceased), wife of T. McCurdy; Esther, widow of C. Fretz, of DeKartb County, Ind.; Sarah (deceased), wife of Peter Dull, of same^county; and Susanna, wife of Samuel Dull, of Kansas. The subject of this sketch was united in marriage, October 5, 1848, with Adeline, a daughter of Jonathan Fisher, by whom he had ten children, viz., Esther A., wife of C. Holser, of Michigan; Mary E., wife of Philip Warnes. of Berlin, Ohio; Sarah B. ; Eliza J., wife of John Conrad, of Holmes County, Ohio; Lucinda C. ; Henrietta, now wife of Benjamin F. Teaters; William, Isaac, John E. and Emma. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Showalter settled on the old family homestead, which has never been out of the Showalter name, and have since resided here. He was engaged in the profession of teaching when he was about twenty -three years of age, and followed it for six terms; he was a good disciplinarian, and left a record as a successful teacher. Mr. Showalter is a Bepublican, and has been School Director of his district twenty- one years. He and the family are members of the Lutheran Church, of which he has been Trustee and Deacon, now holding the position of Eider. He is an upright and influential citizen of the township. William Henry is the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Showalter, and was born May 9, 1857, and is twin brother of Henrietta. He is still living at home, working for his father. He has already done some successful teaching, and is an intelligent young man, of good influence and social position.

nJAMES SMILEY (deceased) was born in 1808 in Somerset County, Penn., and was a son of George and Jane Smiley. The family came to this township when our subject was three years of age, and took up a lease on some land which they commenced clearing. The old folks both died in this township. Of their family, only two are living - Daniel, of Massillon, Ohio, and George W., of Steuben County, Ind. Our subject was united in marriage about 1830, to Miss Elizabeth Burrell, a native of Maryland, by whom he had thirteen children, of whom ten have survived, viz. : Robert and John, of Daviess County, Ind.; Benjamin F., of St. John's, Mich.; Thomas J., also of Daviess County, Ind. ; Marshall, at home; Susan, wife of Mathias Itskin, parents of four children, and residents of the home place; Nancy J., at home; Keziah, wife of John Hostetler, Dover, Ohio; James M., at home; and Rachel A., wife of Michael Flood, of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Smiley, after their marriage, moved to the present family homestead. They acquired a good estate, comprising 308 acres of well-improved land. Mr. Smiley departed this life May 13, 1883. He was a good man and influential citizen, and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him. The widow survives and lives at the old homestead.

MARSHALL SMILEY, son of James Smiley, farmer, P. O. Barr's Mills, was born January 11, 1838, on the farm on which he now lives, and was here brought up, obtaining his education in the common schools of the township and performing the ordinary duties of a farmer's boy. He has traveled through various parts of this State and Indiana. He remains at home and takes the lead in carrying on the farm. He supports the Democratic party in politics, and always aims to vote for a good man.

GEORGE SMITH, merchant, Shanesville, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1830, and came with his parents to Holmes County, Ohio, in 1843. He secured his education in this country, and in 1858 was married to Barbara Seip, who was born in Holmes County, Ohio, and died in 1861. On February

4, 1869, he was united in marriage with Sarah Arnibryst, by which union there have been five children, of whom two are living - Mary E. and William A. When Mr. Smith was nineteen years of age, he engaged in teaching, which vocation he followed for five years, and was subsequently, for several years, employed in selling machinery and agricultural implements. In 1870, he bought a store in Farmerstown, Ohio, which he carried on for twelve years. In 1882, he purchased half interest in the firm he is now a member of, the firm name being Yoder & Smith. He also owns a farm of 136 acres of improved land, located near Shanesville. He is a member of the Ornish Mennonite Church; in politics supports the Democratic ticket. He has been industrious and successful in life, and is educated in both English and German. He is a public-spirited man, always encouraging the intellectual and moral :mprovement of the community where he resides.

JOHN SMITH, tinner, Shanesville, was born in the canton of Berne, Switzerland, in 1840, and came to America, with his father's family, when a young lad. The family settled in Stark County, Ohio, where he received his education. In 1862, he enlisted in the Federal army, in the Tenth Regiment Missouri Volunteer Cavalry; his divison was commanded in turn by Gens. Upton and Wilson. He served three years in the active campaigns through Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and the surrounding country, and was in several closely contested fights. He was slightly wounded in the left leg at Iuka, Miss. He served bravely and well; of the 1,000 men who enlisted, not more than 380 were mustered out at the close of the war. On his return to Ohio, he completed his trade with his father. In March, 1866, he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Ruffcenacht, who was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. To this union were born seven children, viz.: Ella, Caroline, Edward, Albert, Anna, Minnie and Clara. In 1866, Mr. Smith established a tin-shop and stove store in Shanesville, and has since been engaged in that business. He has a first-class trade, extending into the surrounding country, and is an upright, reliable business man. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Geiman Reformed Church.

JOHN P. STEITZ, restaurant and saloon-keeper, Shanesville, was born, June 24, 1855, in Dover Township, this county and State. His parents, William and Margaret Steitz, now live in Auburn Township. Our subject was brought up on a form, and at the age of sixteen years learned the saddler's trade with John Myers, at New Philadelphia, Ohio. In 1877, he established a shop in Ragersville, carrying it on for five years. He was united in marriage, April 10, 1879, with Miss Phebe Eckert, of Bucks Township. The two children born to this union are Clara May and Minnie. Mr. Steitz established, March 1, 1883, the restaurant and bar which he now carries on in Shanesville. He keeps a first-class, orderly house, and has a pool room attached. He has been industrious and successful in life, and is known as an enterprising and reliable business man. He is a Democrat in politics, and during his residence in Ragersville was elected Clerk of Auburn Township.

P. H. STRAUSS, proprietor of saloon, Shanesville, was born May 27, 1835, in Rhine-Bavoria, Germany, and is a son of Christian and Caroline (Odenwalt) Strauss. His father and both of his grandfathers were teachers in Germgny. Mr. and Mrs. Strauss came to America in 1859, and the latter died in Shanesville in 1860, followed by Mr. Strauss two years after, in Miami County, Ind. Our subject was brought up as a teacher, receiving a good German education in the fatherland; he also acquired a thorough English education, mostly by private study since coming to America in 1855. He ha6 taught several terms in Ohio and Indiana. He was married to Miss Barbara Gerhart in Miami County, Ind. They have had four children, viz., Andrew, Elizabeth

(deceased), Ferdinand and Clara. Mr. Strauss returned to Shanesville in 1871, and kept a saloon and restaurant for eleven years, when he sold out and carried on a retail clothing store, after which he resumed his former line of business; he also carries on a custom tailor shop in the second story of his building. He is a Democrat in politics; has been Township Clerk for five years. He and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church, in which he is Trustee and Treasurer.

JOSIAH TETERS, teacher, Barr's Mills, was born November 18, 1843, in Westmoreland County, Penn., and is a son of Daniel and Leah (Stough) Teters, whose biographies appear elsewhere in this voluma He came to this county with his father's family in 1853, and here received the principal part of his education. In June, 1803, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served in the Army of the Cumberland, under Gen. A. E. Burnside, and took part in several engagements. He left a good record as a faithful soldier, and received honorable discharge at Cleveland in 1864. In that year he joined an expedition to Chattanooga, Tenn. , where he helped to put up a Government rolling-mill. He returned in 1865, and adopted the profession of teaching, which he has since followed, and has taught eighteen terms, of which seventeen were in four districts near home. He has made a record as a thorough English scholar and a faithful teacher. He is at present a clerk for S. P. Miller. Mr. Teters was united in marriage, in September, 1868, to Amanda Winkelpleck, of Sugar Creek Township, and by her had one child, deceased in infancy. Mrs. Teters departed this life in June, 1869; she belonged to the Lutheran Church, and was a favored and honored member. In September, 1871, Mr. Teters married Miss Mary A., daughter of Christian Strome. The results of this union have been five children, viz., Mandilla M., Elizabeth E., Benjamin F., Walter M. and Thomas M. Mr. Teters is a Democrat in politics, and, with his wife, is a member of the Lutheran Church. He is one of the public-spirited and influential citizens of Sugar Creek Township, and has a pleasant home with ten acres of land al Barr's Mills.

DAVID THOMAS, farmer, P. O. Shanesville, was born in Dover Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, March 30, 1814, and is a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Baker) Thomas, natives of Bedford County, Penn. His parents came to this county in 1809, and took up a fifteen gears' lease on a 150-acre tract in Dover Township. Here the father died in 1821, followed by the widow in 1843. Mr. Thomas served in the war of 1812, and was one of the forty men who pursued some Indians from Bedford County, Penn., to this county, to recover two stolen children. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and obtained his education undev the difficulties of those early times. In 1836, he was united in marriage with Nancy Fetter, who was born in Sugar Creek Township, this county and State, on the farm our subject now occupies. She departed this life January 6, 1877; at the time of her decease she weighed 340 pounds, and her mother at one time was 400 pounds in weight Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, in the kindness of tbeir hearts, raised the following- named children - Jacob Thomas, taken at five months of age, now in Williams County, Ohio; George Putt, taken when twelve years old, now in Iowa; John Morganthaler (see his biography); Louis Bucher, taken when seven years of age; Catherine Lawder, at six years of age, now wife of D. Patterson; Eva Putt, wife of John Morganthaler; and Barbara Morganthaler, taken when eighteen months old, now wife of F. Stutzman. Mr. Thomas formed a second marriage with Mrs. Agnes Butcher, relict of the late Peter Butcher; she was an old playmate of his. In 1833, while he was on his way to the house of Henry Cramer, near Bolivar, Ohio, he met a little girl, Agnes, in his path, and playfully putliflzed by Google ting her on his shoulder, he carried her to the house. By h er first union she had five children - Frank Butcher, of Zoar Station, Ohio; J acob Butcher, of Massillon, Ohio; Mrs. Clara Morris, of Dover, Ohio; and Maggie and Mary Batcher, still with her. Mr. Thomas has given a very liberal start to the children he has reared, and still retains a good farm of 147 acres, which he has made by his own efforts. He is a powerful man, having been able in his early manhood to make 310 rails a day. He has now with him Daniel Snider, whom he has adopted.

Provenance

Text from The History of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, published 1884, in the public domain in the United States and digitised by the Internet Archive.