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

Church. Mr. Ax enlisted, in August, 1862, in the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, engaged in a skirmish near Covington, Ky., and marched through Kentucky, across the Cumberland Mountains, to Knoxville, Tenn. The regiment, inclosed by Burnside's entire force, was besieged. After the siege was raised, it advanced toward Atlanta, Ga.; going over contested ground from Buzzard's Roost to Atlanta, they were engaged with the enemy in numerous skirmishes and general engagements. After the fall of Atlanta, it marched, right about-face, toward Nashville, Tenn., and encountered Hood at Columbia, Franklin and Nashville, Tenn. After Hood's defeat at Nash ville, the regiment was transferred to the Eastern Department. It sailed from Alexandria, Va., via Fort Monroe, to Fort Fisher, N. C.; occupied Wilmington, N. C. ; advanced to Greensboro, N. C. , via Raleigh, and relieved Joe Johnston's army from duty and gua ding munitions of war. Our subject was mustered out of the United States service and returned to Cleveland, where he was mustered out of the State service. He returned home, August 29, 1865, after serving two years and ten months. At the close of his service, he was twenty-three years and eight months old. He owns 143 acres of well-improved land, with good farm buildings, and is a well-known citizen of Wayne Townpliip.

JOHN HENRY BENFER, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was bom in this township August 26, 1839. He is the son of Henry and Margaret (Knappenberger) Benfer, the former a native of Ohio, the latter of Pennsylvania. Their family consisted of four children - Sarah A. (wife of Robert Price), Rev. Elias Hanson, John Henry and Mary Catherine (wife of James W. Stout). Our subject was married to Miss Rachel Johnson October 6, 1863, and to them were born ten children, viz., Ulysses Grant (deceased), Thomas Jefferson (deceased), Mary Clarinda, Elsa, Andesa, James Pomeroy, Judge Amos, Clifford Thurman, William Francis and Elea Grace. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Benfer has held the offices of Township Trustee and Justice of the Peace, and is serving his second term as County Commissioner. He was a volunteer during the late rebellion in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was a brave soldier, but being taken sick he was discharged for physical disability. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Benfer owns a well -improved farm of 150 acres, with splendid buildings thereon, secured by his own industry.

JOHN BOWERS, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1840, and is a son of John and Susan (Gardner) Bowers. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and settled near Mount Eaton, Ohio, at an early day, spending there the remainder of their lives. They reared a large family of children, eight of whom are now living, viz., Joseph, Samuel, Jacob, Susan (wife of John Pircel), Lydia (wife of John Bair), John, Henry and Levi. John Bowers was married to Catherine, daughter of Samuel and Maria (Malone) Boyd. Mrs. Bowers died April 30, 1883. Their family numbered three children, viz., Clara Ellen (deceased), Icadora and Louis Lonnear. The family are members of the Church of God. Mr. Bowers was a volunteer during the late war, enlisting in the Twenty fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and proved himself a brave soldier; after a service of about one jear, he received an honorable discharge. He owns ninety-one acres of well -cultivated land, on which are erected good farm buildings.

DAVID BRADLEY, miller, Dundee, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., October 10, 1810. His parents, Jeremiah and Mary (Lute) Bradley, were natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania respectively. They came to Ohio and settled in Harrison County, where Jeremiah died; his widow then removed to Brown County, Ind., where she died September 8, 1882, aged ninety-five years. Their family numbered six children, viz., David, Mary (wife of John Cook, deceased), Joseph Levi, Maria (deceased) and Susanna (wife of George Shawbaugh). April 13, 1846, our subject was married to Mary Morgan, in this county, on the farm where they now reside. The result of this union has been one child, Francis Marian, who is married, and resides on the farm with his parents. Mr. Bradley worked at the carpenter's trade until about 1863. He purchased the flouring-mill which he is now operating, and has always been successful in business, having accumulated a large amount of property, including a farm of 120 acres, besides his mills. He is one of the old pioneers, and has done much for the advancement of the county.

RICHARD BURRELL, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in this county January 23, 1815. His parents, Richard and Ruhama (Wode) Burrell, were natives of Maryland, and came to Tuscarawas County in 1806, and to Wayne Township about the year 1811. They had a family of nine children, of whom only two survive, Richard and John, the latter a resident of Richland County, Ohio. Richard, our subject, was married, October 20, 1836, to Sarah, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Masters) Lewis, natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio in an early day, and settled in this county in 1833, the father engaging in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Burrell are the parents of eleven children, six of whom are living - Joseph Lewis, Richard Wareham, Jeremiah, Charles Peter, Frances Marion and Alcid. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Burrell died June 13, 1883. Mr. Burrell has now retired from business; he luis been successful in life, and has acquired 300 acres of land, which he has divided among his children. He has been an active worker in the advancement of education, and in the settlement of the county generally.

CHRISTIAN FELLER, farmer, P. O. Dundee, is a native of Switzerland, born November 27, 1835, and is a son of Samuel and Barbara (Newens wander) Feller, the latter of whom died in Switzerland. They had three children - Christian, John, and Anna (deceased). Our subject came to this country in 1855 (five years after his father), and settled in this county, where he, Christian. engaged in farming. His father died in 1864. Christian was married, March 14, 1867, to Maggie Olmstead, the results of which union have been a family of five children - W7illiam Otto, Franklin Frederick, Austin Henry, Ellsworth Edward and Sue Allie. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mrs. Feller was born, March 20, 1844, in Wayne Township, this county, and is the daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Rieksecker) Olmstead. Her father died in 1874. Mr. Feller has served his township as District Clerk and Supervisor for a number of terms. During the late civil war, he enlisted in the Nineteenth Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, and served in the Army of the Cumberland until the fall of 1865. He was sunstruck in August, 1865, near Green Lake, Tex. ; was very sick then for about five weeks, and ever since he has suffered much from the severe heat of the sun. He has been breeding fine short-horn cattle, and by the assistance of his faithful wife has secured a fine farm of sixty (well-improved) acres of land.

CHRISTIAN GRABER, cheese manufacturer, P. O. Dundee, is a native of Switzerland, born May 2, 1841, and is a son of Ulrich and Magdalina (Rufend) Graber. His parents reared a family of four children - John, Frederick, Mary Ann, wife of Solomon Bowman, and Christian, all of whom came to America, the parents remaining in their native country where they died. Our subject married Miss Susanna, daughter of Jacob and Susanna (Myers) Boss, natives of Switzerland, where they lived to the close of their lives. To this union have been born three children - Susanna, Christian and

Louis. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Graber has been engaged in the cheese business for about twelve years, and manufactures on a large scale, making about 250 cheeses per season. He came to this county in April, 1881, and settled in Wayne Township.

GODFREY HOERGER, farmer, P. O. Wilmot, is a native of Germany, born April 6, 1820, and is a son of Godfrey and Elizabeth (Didman) Hoerger, who came to America in 1834, and settled in Holmes County, Ohio, the former engaging in farming. They are both deceased. They were the parents of three children - Henry (deceased), Godfrey (our subject), and Hellen (deceased), our subject being the only living descendant of the family in America. On March 30, 1847, he married Hellen Hostetler, to which union was bom a family of twelve children, viz., Louisa (wife of Christian Graber), Paulina (wife of Nicholas Stilgenbaugh), Rosa, William, Charles, Frederick Emma, Sophia, Caroline, Edward, Ferdinand and Godfrey. The family are members of the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Hoerger owns a tine farm of ninety-one acres, on which are erected excellent farm buildings. Hellen was the daughter of Frederick and Magdalina (Bush) Hostetler, natives of Germany, who came to America and settled at Winesburg, Holmes County, Ohio, where the father eng^cd in the pottery business.

CALEB JONES, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Austintown, Trambull Co., Ohio, July 26, 1817. He is a son of Caleb and Nancy (Barkliammer) Jones, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Trumbull County, Ohio, thence moved to Holmes County, where they died. Caleb Jones, Sr., was a farmer by occupation. Of the large family of twelve children, two have survived, Caleb and Nathan, the latter of whom lives in Kansas. Caleb received his education from the common schools of this vicinity, and in 1850 was married to Rebecca Lonnon; she is a daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Ammon) Lonnon. Of the family of eight children born to this union, five are living, viz., Beriah, Edward John, Mary Yietta (wife of Clinton L. Sliffe), Nathan, Kettis. The deceased are Sarah (wife of William Burkholder), La Fayette and Thomas Elmer. The family are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Jon<» owns a fine farm, consisting of 500 acres, all well-improved land, with good farm buildings erected thereon. ,

CASPER LEHNER, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Germany September 4, 1815, and is a son of Boston and Dortha (May) Lehner, also natives of Germany. He is a member of a family of four children - Barbara (deceased), Casper, Dortha and George. He came to America in 1840 and settled in Winesburg, Holmes Co., Ohio, where he lived for a few years, subsequently coming to this county and purchasing the farm on which he now resides. On June 20, 1840, he was united in marriage with Mary Frederickna Henry, which union has been blessed with a family of eight children, viz., Mary (wife of Andrew Gering), Katie (wife of Leonard Wencher), John, George, Rosanna (wife of Louis Arnold), Barbara (wife of Rev. Earnest Deringer), Paulina (wife of Rev. Jacob Huffman) and William. The family attend the Lutheran Church. Mr. Lehner has a fine farm of 110 acres of well cultivated land, one of the best in the county. He has always taken an active part in the advancement of the county, especially in the erection of churches and schoolhousee.

MICHAEL LILLICH, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, May 13, 1833, and is a son of Andrew and Mary Barbara (Horlocher) Lillich, both of whom died in Germany. They had a family of five children - George; Catherine, wif e of Christopher Lenz; Michael; Barbara, wife of Frederick Velkest, and Andrew. Our subject came to America June 8, 1853, and worked on farms in this county as a hired hand, until he had accumulated enough money to purchase a farm. He was married, January 23, 1855, to Mrs. Magdalena

Graber, a daughter of Ulrich and Magdalena (Buehler) Kempf, natives of Switzerland. Her parents came to America in 1834, and settled in Wayne County, Ohio; thence came to this county, where they died. Mrs. Lillich' s former husband, Ulrich Graber, died soon after their marriage. By this union were three children - Jacob, deceased; Christian and Sophia, both married. Mr. and Mrs. Lillich are the parents of six children - Henriette, Louisa, wife of Henry Sigrist; Fernando, deceased; Mary Jane, Michael Franz and Fernando Daniel. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Lillich is a Democrat in politics, but is no radical. He has held the office of Township Treasurer for several terms. He owns 122 acres of good land, with splendid buildings, and is an esteemed citizen.

WILLIAM McKEAN, M. D., was born in Venango County, Penn., May 21, 1837. He is of Scotch- Irish extraction. On the paternal side, he traces back to Revolutionary stock, Thomas McKean, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Doctor's father, a farmer, gave his family the benefit of a moderate or rather a common school education. The father removed from Western Pennsylvania to Wayne County, Ohio, in 1850, settling in the northern part of the county, on a small farm, bringing up the family to the labors of the farm with the advantages of schooling during the winter season. The Doctor had the advantages of an academic education, spending some winters in teaching. Id April of 1860, he entered the office of Dr. Joel Pomerine, then practicing medicine in Middletown. After spending some time with the Doctor and attending one term of lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., he occupied the office of the Doctor in his absence in the army. He continued there in practice, graduating from Jefferson Medical College in the spring of 1866. Removed from Holmes to Tuscarawas County in 1874, since which time he has been in practice in Dundee. In 1861, he was married to Rachel Slutts, their union being blessed by six children, five of whom are living. The oldest, John E., is a student of the Ohio Wesleyan at Delaware; Josiah S., the second son, is filling a cadet's position in the Naval Academy at Annapolis; Mary, the oldest daughter, is a student at Mount Union; George, the youngest son, is a salesman in his uncle's store at Middletown; and Celia, a child, at home. The Doctor has always been an uncompromising Republican, outspoken and aggressive.

FREDERICK NEVEL, carpet and coverlet weaver, Dundee, was bom in Wurtemberg, Germany, November 1, 1838, and is a son of Godleib and Regina (Schwerdtfeger) Nevel, both of whom died in Germany. Their family numbered nine children, their names as follows: Christian, John Godleib, Frederick, Frederickna, Minnie (wife of Adam Schmidt), William, Rosa, Eugene, Peter and Regina (deceased). Our subject married Christina Shenfler, October 11, 1863. She is a daughter of George and Magdalena (Dumite) Shenfler, natives of Germany. The eight children born to this union are as follows: John Frederick, William Jacob, Christian William, August, Amelia, Eugene Hormer, Charles Otts and Rosa Ottily. The family are members of the German Evangelical Church. Mr. Nevel has filled the offices of School Director and Township Supervisor several terms. He has a comfortable home consisting of several acres of land, and has been in the manufacture of carpetsjand coverlets for over twenty years.

JOHN PFAEFFLY, cheese manufacturer, Dundee, was born in Switzerland, July 3, 1847, and is a son of Ulrich and May (Huber) Pfaeffly. His mother died in Switzerland, subsequent to which his father came to America, in 1876, and settled in Stone Creek, Tuscarawas County, engaging in the manufacture of cheese. The family consisted of two children - John and Mary (twins), the latter the wife of Edward Miller. Our subject was. united in marriage, December 11, 3874, with Miss Kate Stukey, to which union there were born two children - Flora and Kate. His wife died on March 20, 1877, and on May 9, 1878, he married Miss Mary Stukey. One child, John AJexan der, resulted from this union. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Pfaeffly has a *£00, comfortable home, and the best cheese factory in Wayne Township. He has been engaged in the business for about twenty years.

DANIEL K. REECE, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., November 13, 1837, and is a son of Nathan and Mary (Keiser) Reece, natives of Pennsylvania. His mother was a daughter of George and Christina (Snyder) Keiser. Daniel was one of a family of eleven children, six of whom are now living, viz. : Missouria, wife of Jacob Booher; John; Christina, wife of Daniel Stevenson; Daniel; Martha, wife of Abraham Stoner, and Amanda, wife of William Kelly. Our subject came to Tuscarawas County about 1871, but two years after returned to Pennsylvania, remaining there three years. He then came to this county and settled on the farm where he is now residing. He was married to Emma, daughter of David and Catharine (Bailey) Barkley, natives of Somerset County. Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Reece have had a family of nine children, seven of whom are living - Elmer, Grant, Allen, Ella, Sutton, Mary and May. They are member of the Christian Church Mr. Reece is a School Director, and is a member of the Board of Education. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity. He taught school, and for three years he superintended the coal and coke works of Frick & Co. , of Fayette County, Penn., and kept the books and managed the coal and iron works of Hogsett, Hanna & Co., of the same county, for five years. He owns a good, well -improved farm of eighty acres, where he has a comfortable home.

FREDERICK REICHENBACH, merchant and land surveyor, Dundee, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 14, 1853. His parents, Freder ick and Rosanna (Beiner) Reichenbach, were natives of Switzerland, and came to America about the year 1840, settling where East Cleveland now is, which land they owned at the time. They subsequently moved to this county, in 1855, settling upon a farm. Their family numbered eleven, viz. : Alcide; Eliza, wife of John B. Jone6; Mary, wife of Levi Beck; Lena, wife of Paul Schoff ter; Frederick; Alfred C. ; Edward; Louisa, wife of Louis Tissot; Ellen; Frank and Celia. Our subject was married, September 12, 1878, to Mary L. , daughter of JJol. Nicholas Frederick and Louisa (Cronz) Joss, the former of whom is a retired merchant at Winesburg, Holmes County. Ohio. To this union there has been born one child, Ilda. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Reichenbach is Notary Public, Towoship Clerk and Local Surveyor. He owns a store, and is doing a good business.

CHARLES FREDERICK RHODES, farmer, P.O. Beach City, was born in Central America, November 6. 1859. He is a son of Thomas Conrod and Rosanna (Ricker) Rhodes, the former of whom is a native of Ohio, born in Springfield. Our subject's mother was a native of Germany, and CMme with her parents in 1844, settling near Dover, this county. She was a daughter of Frederick and Mary Catherine (Holl) Ricker, the latter of whom died in Germany. The parents of our subject were married in 1855, and in the same year moved to Central America, where they remained until 1801, removing thence to California, where Mr. Rhodes died. Our subject's father was a photo-artist. Charles was reared in a family of five children, viz. : Nina, wife of William H. Kriter; Charles Frederick, our subject; Thomas, deceased; Rosa; and Henry, deceased. On December 18, 1879, our subject was married to Flora, daughter of Benjamin and Catherine (Fisher) Doll. The results of this union have been two children - Thomas Benjamin and Elsie. Mrs.

Rhodes belongs to no church as yet. Mr. Rhodes belongs to the Masonic fraternity, Tuscarawas Lodge, No. 59. He has held the office of School Director, and owns a fine farm of 203 acres of fertile, and productive land.

CHARLES H. SPRINGER, M. D., physician and surgeon, Dundee, was bom March 10, 1861, in Shanesville, Ohio, and is a son of Guy Y. and Ann M. (Pugh) Springer. He attended the public schools of Shanesville until thirteen years of age, when the family removed to Dundee, their present place of residence. Here our subject again entered the public schools, and in addition took private lessons under a tutor. These private studies, in a scientific and higher literary course, he has continued through all his other work up to the present time. On March 10, 1876, he began teaching school in a neighboring district, and continued for five terms. At the age of sixteen, he commenced the study of his chosen profession under Dr. William McKean, of Dundee, and in September, 1879, entered on a course of three terms in the medical department of Wooster University, Cleveland, Ohio, graduating in July, 1882, the youngest graduate of the institution. Returning to Dundee, he began the practice of his profession, and has already built up an extensive and profitable practice. He is a member of the Tuscarawas County Medical Association, of the Ohio State Medical Association, and the American Medical Association, in each of which he is the youngest member. Dr. Springer is a young man of fine mental and moral culture, and high social standing and influence.

PETER STEFFE, farmer, P. O. Dundee, was born in Wayne Township December 31, 1830. and is a son of Jacob and Rachel (Rubert) Steffe (both deceased), the former a native of Maryland, the latter of New Jersey. They came to this county when young and were here married, Mr. Steffe engaging in fanning. They had a large family of sixteen children, their names as follows: Samuel, deceased; John; Matilda, wife of Amos Johnson; Rachel, who was married to Joseph Hair (deceased), and subsequently to Samuel Berger; Sarah, wife of Levi Maple (deceased); Anna, wife of Levi Fair; Jacob, deceased; three unnamed infants, deceased ; Peter, our subject ; Rebecca (deceased) ; wife of Joseph Berger; Amelia, widow of David Musser, and formerly the wife of Henry Carroll, from whom she separated; Mary, wife of Charles Jones; Nancy, wife of I. Leighle; and Joseph. Our subject was married to Miss Mary Benjamin on January 2, 1852. To them has been born a family of ten children - Daniel Lee; Adelia Josephine, wife of Walker King; Jacob Howard, Oliver Perry, John Elsworth, Melissa Jane (deceased), an unnamed infant (deceased), Horatio Seamour, Edward Francisco and Lilly Genevieve. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Air. Steffe has held the offices of Supervisor and Constable for a number of years; has been generally successful in business, having secured a comfortable home of forty acres of land, well cultivated, with fine buildings erected thereon.

FRANCIS ANKNEY, farmer, P. O. Yorktown, was bom on February 28, 1835, and is the only son of Jacob and Elizabeth Margaret (Gernand) Ankney. Jacob Ankney came from Somerset, Penn., to this county, in 1815, and engaged in farming in York Township until his decease, which occurred February 10, 1880; his wife died February 24, of the same year. They had two children born to them - Francis and Margaret Ann. Mrs. Ankney was the daughter of John Francis and Elizabeth Gernand, who had emigrated from Witchenstine, Berlinberg, Prussia, to York, Penn., in 1798. The subject of this sketch was married, October 25, I860, to Miss Mary E. Strickmaker, and to them were born four children, viz., Clara Ann, wife of John Gintz; Caroline Josephine, wife of Joseph Winkler; Emery Henry Gernand, and Lydia Frances (deceased). There being a separation in this marriage, Mr. Ankney was again united in marriage, April 5, 1877, to Miss Mary Gintz, by whom he has had four children - Jacob Christian Francis, Nora Naola, and twins who are deceased. Mr. Ankney and family are members of the German Reformed Church, and he is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, Lodge No. 59. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace for about twelve years, as well all the township offices, except that of Supervisor and Constable, with honor to himself and his constituents. He owns 465 acres of well-improved land, well stocked and with good farm buildings on same.

JOHN BLEININGER, farmpr, P. O. Blackband, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, August 12, 1845, and is a son of Frederick and Louisa (Benfer) Bleininger. His parents were also born in this township, where they were married, August 1, 1844, rearing a family of three children - George, Daniel and John. The father of our subject died January 23. 1854, and the widow has since resided with our subject on the farm. She and her heirs are owners of one of the finest farms in York Township, which comprises 245 acres of improved land, containing good farm buildings. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Our subject still remains in the single state, and is a well respected farmer.

DANIEL BLEININGER, farmer, P. O. Blackband, was born in York Township, this county and State, March 15, 1852. His parents, Frederick and Louisa (Benfer) Bleininger, are also natives of this township, where they were married. August 1, 1844. To them were born three children - George, John and Daniel. Frederick Bleininger died January 23, 1854. The subject of this sketch was united in marriage, September 15, 1879, with Miss Lavinia Mizer, which union has been blessed with two children - Amanda Ellen and John Wesleyen. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Bleininger owns a portion of the old Bleininger farm, which is known as the finest piece of land in Tuscarawas County.

JOHN BLOCS, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in York County, Penn., April 11, 1819. His parents were John and Rosana (Stermer) Blous, natives of Pennsylvania, who reared a family of five children, viz., Lydia, wife of James Winkelpleck; George, deceased; Mary, wife of Daniel Van Oistern; John; Anna, wife of Joseph Kitsmiller, all born in York County, Penn. John Blous, our subject, came to Tuscarawas County in 1830, and located here a farm on which he has since resided. He was married, August

15, 1841, to Miss Catherine Elizabeth Kuhn, and has been blessed with a family of seven children, their names as follows: Henry, John Daniel; Rosanna Catherine, wife of George Meese: Mary Elizabeth, wife of William Romig; Anna Eliza, deceased, wife of John Rice; Emanuel and Joseph Wesley (both deeased). The family are members of tbe Lutheran Church. Mr. Blous owns 203 acres of land, all well improved. He is one of the old pioneers of York Township, who have contributed greatly to the advancement of education.

SARAH and MARY DEARDORFF, P. O. Yorktown,are natives of Virginia, where the former was born in June of 1805, the latter of 1807. They are daughters of Samuel and Rebecca (Cox) Deardorft, and sisters to John Deardorff. Their parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and came to Tuscarawas County in 1811, settling in York Township. They are owners of 139 acres of land, which is well improved and contains excellent farm buildings. They are members of the Lutheran Church, and have done much for the advancement of education and the improvement of society generally.

HENRY E. ESPENSCHIED, jeweler and Postmaster, Yorktown, was born in Auburn Township, Tuscarawas County. Ohio, April 10, 1854. He is a son of Philip and Margaret Espenschied, natives of Germany. Our subject was married, April 19, 1881, to Miss Elizabeth Kuhn, born May 10, 1800, in York Township, and to them has been born one child, Charles Curtis, born April 15, 1882. Mr. Espenschied received the appointment of Postmaster when the office was first located in this township, November 14, 1881, and has since remained in that capacity. He started in the jewelry business in Yorktown with John H. Winkler (who soon after died), and is still doing a successful bus iness. Mr. Espenschied is known as an energetic, trustworthy citizen, and he and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church.

BENJAMIN FISHER, farmer, P. O. Canal Dover, was born in Pennsylvania February 13, 1830, and is a son of Frederick and Catherine (Kurts) Fisher. He was a member of a family of nine children, viz. : George, Mathias, Hosea, Benjamin, Pauline (wife of Philip Ebert), Regenia (deceased), Caroline (wife of Nathan Bair), Rebecca (deceased, wife of John Kohr), and Rachel (wife of Joseph Aleshouse). Frederick Fisher came with his family to this State about the year 1834, and settled in Sandy Township, where Mrs. Fisher died in 1843. He then moved to Dover Township, same year, and resided there until his death, which occurred in 1853. Our subject was married in August of 1803, to Mrs. Catharine (Wasman) Rosenberry, and by her had one child, Ida Catherine, who is still at home. Mrs. Fisher died in 1805, and on June 10 of the following year our subject was united in marriage with Cynthia, daughter of John Rutan and Elizabeth (Younkman) Sheplar, natives of Pennsylvania. The latter died in Bethlehem Township, Stark County, Ohio, where the family were located. Mr. Sheplar is residing in Louisville, where he had charge for a number of years of the United Brethren Church, as pastor, but has since retired. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher have been made the parents of five children, of whom two, Jennie May and James Harvey, are deceased, and Emma, Alice, Mary Julia and Earl Benjamin still survive. The family are members of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Fisher has held the office of Township Trustee for several terms, and has a fine farm of 100 acres highly cultivated land, containing excellent buildings thereon.

GEORGE FISHER, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born November 30, 1830, son of Henry and Elizabeth Fisher, the former of whom is a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Ohio. Henry Fisher was born in 1795, and in 1818 came to this county; here he settled, and purchased a small farm from the proceeds of day labor, continuing to increase in this world's goods until he had acquired 100 acres of well-improved land. He was the parent of eleven children, viz. : John, Daniel, Solomon, George, Joseph, Anna, Elizabeth, Lydia. Henry, Mary and Catherine. Of these, two are deceased - Henry, who died June 2, 1882, and Elizabeth, March 30, 1880. The subject of this sketch was married, March 27, 1856, to Miss Sarah A. Walters, and has had a family of thirteen children, viz.: John William, Henry B., Mary Jane, James Monroe, Sarah Matilda, Clara Alice, George Abraham, Emma Lillie, Mae, Barkley Wallace, Elsworth, Della Ann and a child who died in infancy. All are unmarried and at home, and the family are members of the Church of God. Mr. Fisher has held the office of School Director for a number of years with honor* and is the owner of 104 acres of well -cultivated land, well stocked, and with good farm buildings on same.

JOHN JACOB FOEHL, merchant, Blackband, was born in Wurtomberg, Germany, whence he emigrated in 1865, coming to this country and settling in Stark County, Ohio. In 1866, he married Mary Sperrle, by whom he has had a family of ten children - Amelia Margaret, John Jacob, Christina Mary, Charles, Elizabeth, Rosa Catherine, Gustave Adolph, Emma Matilda, and two infants, deceased. In 1873, they removed to Tuscarawas County. Mrs. Foehl's parents were John Jacob and Margaret Sperrle, natives of Germany. She came to America in 1866, and located in Stark County. Mr. Foehl is doing a large mercantile business, aDd has the post office and station agency at Blackband. He and family are members of the German Reformed Church. He is also a member of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 430, in good standing.

CHRISTIAN FOX, farmer, P. O. Yorktown, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, October 22, 1829, a son of Leopold and Elizabeth Fox. Leopold Fox was born in Germany in 1789, and came to this country about 1826, locating in this county immediately after his arrival, and engaged in farming. He had worked at the trade of shoe- maker in his native country His wife was a daughter of a Mr. Kuhn, and they were married in this country, and had a family of five children, their names as follows: Mary Ann, wife of Nicholas Winkler; Christian, Leopold, John, and a child who died in infancy. Our subject's father died in 1850, and was followed by the widow in 1852. They came to this township among the first, and acquired a fine farm,, consisting of 100 acres of improved land, with good farm buildings thereon. They were members of the Reformed Church in good standing. Christian, our subject, was married, December 3, 1852, to Miss Elizabeth Aflfolter, and to them were born nine children - Elizabeth, wife of Manuel Hawk; John; Mary Ann, wife of John Raber; Catherine; Christian, married to a Miss Maggie Grosarth: Joseph; Frederick; Lydia Magdalane; Sarah, deceased, and Emma Josephine. Mr. Fox and family are members of the German Reformed Church. He has held the office of Trustee and School Director for a number of terms, with honor. His farm of 306 acres of land is well -improved, with good farm buildings, and is well stocked. He has his own dairy, and makes cheese in large quantities.

DANIEL FRIBLY, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in Pennsylvania August 12, 1812, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Woods) Fribly. His father was born in 1783, and died in 1852. His mother, who was of English parentage, was born in 1793, and died in 1870. His father was of German descent, and settled with his wife, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1817. To them were born twelve children, viz.: John (deceased), Daniel. Samuel Thompson. James W., David. Enoch (deceased), Jacob, Joseph (deceased); Ellen, wife of Simon Williams; Mary (deceased), wife of Joseph Kennedy, minister; Elizabeth, wife of Charles McGruder; Margaret, wife of Henry Wagner. Our subject was married in York Township, to Miss Leah Catherine Edmonds, on July 24, 1836, and has reared a family of ninechil- dren, their names as follows: Edward, John Wesley, James Jacob, Emery Lambert, Milton Woods, Charles McGruder; Cornelia Elizabeth, wife of John Louis Roll (deceased); Lucinda Ellen, wife of Lyman Hardman; Susan Matilda, wife of Rev. Lelland. Mrs. Fribly died December 28. 1882. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Fribly is a strong Republican, although he has never cared for political honors. He has always taken great interest in the advancement of education; his own schooling was received in a log schoolhouse, where they used greased paper for windows. Although he has had no advantages of school, he is a man of more than ordinary abilities. He owns a tine farm of 253 acres of improved land, with excellent farm buildings, and well stocked, which he has earned by his own exertions.

CHRISTIAN HANENKRAT, farmer, P. O. Blackband, was born in Switzerland October 1, 1811, son of Nicholas and Mary (Morti) Hanenkrat. Our subject came to America in 1843, and located in York Township this county and State, engaging in farming and cheese-making. In 1844, he was married to Miss Anna ReitT, and to them have been bom eight children, the r names as follows: Rosanna (deceased), wife of Jacob Welles; Sarah, wife of Henry Wasen, Jr.; Frederick; Christian (deceased); Charles; Anna (deceased), wife of Henry Stephens; Louisa, wife of Samuel Winkler, and John (deceased). Mrs. Mary Hanenkart died in April, 1878, and our subject was subsequently united in marriage with Mrs. Magdalena (Voegeli) Myers. The family are members of the German Church. In 1830, while in Switzerland, Mr. Hanenkrat was body-guard to King Charles III, who was afterward driven from the throne, his subjects choosing Philip. Mr. Hanenkrat owns 196 acres of land, which he has brought under a high state of cultivation, and which contains excellent farm buildings.

FREDERICK HANENKRAT, farmer, P. O. Blackband, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, December 4, 1847, and is a son of Christian and Anna (Reiff) Hanenkrat, natives of Switzerland. Our snbject was united in marriage, October 31, 1873, with Miss Magdalena Wenger, who died March 23, 1877. He subsequently married Miss Susannah Riley, and by her has had two children - W7illiam Leander and Emma Ellen. The family are members of the German Reformed Church.

JOSEPH HELMICK, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, April 10, 1837. His parents, Joseph and Anna (Strayer) Helmick, were natives of Pennsylvania, and came to this county in an early day and here remained to the end of their days. To them were bom eleven children, as follows: William, John (deceased), Andrew Strayer, Samuel,

Mary Ann (wife of Henry S. Burt\ Mary Elizabeth (wife of C. D. Carnes), Jacob (deceased), Rachel (deceased), Isaac Jackson, James and Joseph. Our subject was united in marriage, January 31, 1858, with Miss Susan Elizabeth Mathias, by which union two children have been bora - Emmet Mathias and Willis Eugene. Mr. Helmick and family are members of the Lutheran Church. He owns a well -improved farm of fifty -three and a half acres of land, with good farm buildings on the sama

JOHN KINSEY, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in Switzerland in December, 1833, and is a son of Christian and Mary (Winger) Kinsey, who remained in their native land until their decease. John received a limited education in bis native country, whence he emigrated in 1854, settling in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio. He is a successful farmer, having started in life without a cent, and accumulating sufficient funds to purchase a fine farm of eighty-one and a half acres of land, which he has well improved. On November 15, 1866, he was married to Miss Lizzie Neiger, to which union three children have been born - Anna (wife of Nicholas Spring), Mary and Maggie. The family are members of the Moravian Church. Mr. Kinsey has never aspired to political office, preferring the obscurity of a quiet life. His brothers and sisters number ten, all of whom have remained in Switzerland. Their names are as follows: Christian, Mary, Lizzie, Gotleib, Eodie, Joseph, Margaret, Frederick, Rosie and Jacob.

CHRISTIAN KINSEY, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was' born in Switzerland June 12, 1846. His parents, Christian and Magdalena (Neiger) Kinsey, came to America in 1859 and settled on Stone Creek, York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, engaging in farming. They had a family of five children - Christian, William, Lewis Thomas, John Henry and Magdalena (wife of Daniel Corpman, deceased). On December 9, 1869, our subject was united in marriage with Mary Ann Schweitzer, whoso parent# ^emigrated to this country in 1833, and has been blessed with a family of seven children, viz., Mary Magdalena, William Lewis. John Christian (deceased), Henry Edward, Alice Cornelia, Oliver Arthur and Walter Washington. The family are members of the Moravian Church. Mr. Kinsey lives on his farm of eighty acres of improved land, and is a member of the Frye's Valley Grange, No. 1136.

WILLIAM KINSEY, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, is a native of Switzerland, born March 26, 1849, and a son of Christian and Magdalena (Neiger) Kinsey, of whom mention is made in the sketch of Christian Kinsey, the brother of our subject. William was united in marriage, November 24, 1870, with Miss Caroline Arbogast, by which union there have been seven children, their names as follows: Caroline, William Henry, Charles Christian,

William Irvin, Bertha Emma, Ada Viola and Estella Jerusha. The family are members of the Moravian Church, and Mr. Kinsey a member of the Frye's Valley Grange. He is a stanch Democrat; is holding the office of Justice of the Peace, and is one of the most enterprising farmers of York Township. In February, 1865, he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Ninety-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. J. D. Morris, for one year; was enrolled March 6, and served eight months, when he relumed home and resumed his former occupation of farming. He has lived in this township since he was two months old. His wife is a daughter of Philip and Magdalena (Oswalt) Arbogast, residents of Philipsburg, Ohio. Our subject is the owner of 130 acres of land, which is under a high state of cultivation, well stocked and containing good farm buildings.

LEWIS THOMAS KINSEY, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, December 21, 1850, a son of Christian and Magdalena (Neiger) Kinsey, both natives of Switzerland. His parents came to America in 1849, settling in this county in the same year, and reared a family of five children, viz.: Magdalena (wife of Daniel Corpman), Christian, William, Lewis and John Henry. The subject of this sketch was married, April 6, 1876, to Miss Mary Anna Spring, which union has resulted in four children, namely: Robert Christian, John Lewis, William Frederick and

Caroline Elizabeth Mrs. Kinsey is a member of the German Reformed Church, and Mr. Kinsey, of the Moravian Church. Besides sfarming, Mr. Kinsey devotes some of his time to teaching school, having taught for several years. He owns a well-improved farm of ninety acres, and takes a general interest in the advancement of education and all public enterprises.

FRANCIS KUHN, farmer, P. O. Blackband, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, November 12, 1829, and is a son of John Philip and Catherine (Benfer) Kuhn, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Baltimore, Md. The parents were married in York Township at an early

George (deceased) and Anna Elizabeth. Our subject's father died on November 15, 1840, followed by the widow September 5. 1872. Our subject is unmarried, and resides with his brother aDd sister, John P. and Anna E., who are also unmarried. They own together a highly improved farm of eighty-two acres, which is well stocked and contains good farm buildings. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Francis has held the office of Township Trustee with honor to himself and constituents. Their grandparents were the Benfers and Kuhns, who were the first settlers of York Township, who deserve special mention as pioneers, having taken prominent part in the settlement of this township, and who were noted for their thrift and energy.

DANIEL KUHN, carpenter, New Philadelphia, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, May 19, 1831, and is a son of John Philip and Catherine (Benfer) Kuhn. The grandparents of our subject, Philip Leopold and Elizabeth Kuhn, emigrated from Westphalia, Germany, to America, in 1798, and settled in Pennsylvania, coming in 1809 to this county. The father of our subject was born in Pennsylvania, and came with his parents to Ohio when a child. He was married in 1827 to Ann, daughter of John Benfer, who had emigrated in 1797 from Westphalia, Germany, settling in Maryland. The latter came to Tuscarawas County, Ohio,' in 1808. Daniel was a member of a family of six children: John Philip, Francis, Daniel, Tobias, George and Ann Elizabeth.

Daniel, our subject, was married, January 26, 1856, to Miss Rosana Intermill. To this union have been bom three children, viz. : Ellen Naomi, wife of

John Winger; Almira, deceased; and Leona Catherine. Mr. Kuhn has held the offices of Township Treasurer, Assessor and Clerk, and has twice been elected Commissioner of Tuscarawas County. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Lodge No. 59, and owns a well -improved farm, well stocked and supplied with excellent buildings. He and his family are members of the German Reformed Church.

EARNEST GEORGE KUHN, dealer in agricultural implements, Blackband, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1848, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Benfer) Kuhn, the former a native of Prussia, the latter of York Township, this county, Ohio. Our subject was married April 15, 1875, to Miss Mary Riley, and to them have been bom five children - Alise Leetta, Ann ora Ellen, Charles Edward, Nettie Pearl and Arthur Franklin. He and the family are members of th$ German Reformed Church. Mr. Kuhn, for over three years, has held the position of weighmaster and shipper of the Pennsylvania Iron & Coal Company of Dover, Ohio.

DAVID LIMBACH, farmer, P. O. Yorktown, was bom in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, December 22, 1841, and is a son of Adam and Dorothea (Steiner) Limbach, natives of Bavaria, Germany. His parents emigrated to America, and settled in York Township, Ohio, Mr. Limbach engaging in farming. To them were bora eleven children - two infants, deceased; Catharine, wife of August Kuhn; David; Mary, wife of Andrew Schwartz; George; Elizabeth, wife of William Beaber; Adams; Simon; Caroline, wife of Daniel Bair; and William. The subject of this sketch was married, March 30, 1865, to Mrs. Ann Elizabeth Kuhn, and had a family of five children, as follows: Charles Franklin, George Calvin, Emmett William (deceased), Carrie Lorena and Josephine Catharine. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Limbach has a well-improved farm of sixty -five acres, well stocked, and with excellent farm buildings on sama

HENRY McMERTER, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was bom in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, September 16, 1844, and is a son of Henry and Anna (Adkinson) McMerter. His father was a native of Ireland, bom February 12,

1805, and his mother of England, bom in Somersetshire September 29, 1805. The latter came with her parents to America in 1811. Onr subject's parents were married in Steubenville, Ohio, January 9, 1841, and in the spring of that year settled in Mill Township, Mr. McMerter engaging informing. To them were bora three children - James Patrick, who died in infancy, and Henry. Henry, onr subject, has always remained in the single state, devoting his life to the care of his aged mother. His father died in this county, March 2, 1845, being killed by the falling of a tree. James, the brother of our subject, enlisted during the late rebellion, in Company I, Thirtieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died at home from the effects of a wound in the head, received while in the army. Mr. McMerter owns a nice little farm, highly cultivated, from which he realizes a good living.

GEORGE WASHINGTON MATHIAS, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, December 11, 1835. His parents, Adam and Elizabeth Mathias, are natives of Pennsylvania, and were married in this township (Mr. Mathias having come in 1813), and reared a family of twelve children - John, George W., Alfred, Emanuel, James, Daniel; Lucinda (deceased), wife of David Johnson; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Helmick; Rosana, wife of Levi Shull; Rebecca, deceased; Mary Jeanette; and Ellen, wife of Adam Stormer. The subject of this sketch was married October 10, 1861, to Miss Elizabeth McFadden, and to them have been born two children - Joanna Moffitt and Edwin. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Mathias has served his township as Trustee with great honor. His farm of 150 acres is well-improved, with splendid buildings thereupon. He has made his way through life, commencing without capital, and by his energy and enterprise has been successful.

ADAM MILLER, farmer, P. O. Blackband, was bora in Westmoreland County, Penn., May 23, 1817. His parents, Daniel and Elizabeth (Smith) Miller, were both natives of the Keystone State, where they were reared and married, and in 1821 came to Harrison County, Ohio, where Daniel Miller died in 1825. The widow came in 1826 to Sandy Township, this county and State. She was left with nine children, none of whom had attained their majority, which large family 6he reared with credit, being possessed with great executive ability. After some years, she removed to Dover, Ohio, and there died in 1854. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a common school education. When a young man, he worked at mining as a collier, and attained considerable prominence as a geologist and prospector in iron and coal, becoming well and favorably known to capitalists in Pittsburgh and other Eastern cities. He was married, June 18, 1837, to Catherine Richards, bora in Somerset County, Penn., April 11, 1817. To this union six children were bora, viz., John, Sarah, Isabella, Charles W. and two that died in infancy. Our subject commenced life as a poor boy, and is essentially a self-made man. Although meeting with reverses in 1875, he acquitted himself with credit, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him, and while he may not be to-day a Vanderbilt, his reputation for honesty and fair dealing is unimpeachable. Mr. Miller has always followed farming and mining, and has devoted much time to the study of geology. There is, perhaps, not a man in the county to-day who is more conversant with topography and geology of Tuscarawas County than Mr. Miller. He has never aspired to political prominence, and is a stanch Republican, and a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He votes for men and measures and not for party, and is one of the leading, progressive and influential meu of York Township.

HENRY ROMIG, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was bom in Tuscarawas County February 11, 1808. His father, Abraham Romig, was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he emigrated and settled in Gnadenhutten, Ohio, where he was among the first pioneers. He engaged in milling, driving around a w tramp " mill by oxen, after which he pursued farming. He married in this county, Miss Anna Burvey, a native of Pennsylvania, by whom he had a large family, and died in this county, his wife surviving him. She subsequently married Mr. Henry Keller, and died, leaving one child, Henry, who is still living, a resident of this county. The subject of this sketch married Miss Polly Kasebere, by whom he had two children who died in infancy. His wife died in 1830, and in 1831 he was united in marriage with Catharine Witherow, who died in 1833, the mother of one child, who also died in infancy. Our subject was then married to Anna Conwell, who died in 1835, having had one child, an infant, also deceased. In June of 1830, Mr. Romig formed a union with Miss Rebecca Ross, his present wife, and by her has had a family of nine children, their names as follows: Abraham (deceased), Mary (wife of William

Fribley), John Wesley (deceased), William Ross, Henry, Sarah (deceased), Maggie (wife of George Tope), and two infants, deceased. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Romig has never aspired to public office, but lives on his fine farm of eighty-seven acres in York Township, having retired from all active pursuits of life. He is also the owner of a large farm in Iowa.

CHRISTIAN SPRING, farmer, P. O. New Philadelphia, was born in Switzerland January 29, 1819, son of Nicholas and Mary (Hofstetter) Spring. His parents have always remained in Switzerland. Christian came to America in 1857, and settled in York Township, engaging in farming. He was married, April 30, 1842, to Miss Margaret Schmidt, and has had the followingnamed children: Rosa (wife of Adam May), Anna Christine, Mary (wife of

Lewis T. Kinsey), Louisa (deceased, wife of Jacob Bocherly), Nicholas, John, Caroline, Simon Frederick and Earnest William. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Spring has never accepted public office, taking no active part in politics. He owns 260 acres of fine land, well stocked, with splendid farm buildings, and has been an extensive manufacturer of cheese.

JOHN WENGER, farmer, P. O. Yorktown, was born in York Township, Tuscarawas County, Ohio, July 2, 1854 He is the only child living of Christian and Susannah (Hanni) Wenger. His father was a native of Switzerland, whence he emigrated in 1850, settling in York Township. He pursued farming successfully, and died in 1850. His widow subsequently married Jacob Burkholder, who has since died. The subject of this sketch was married, September 9, 1875, to Ellen Neoma Kuhn, and has had a family of three children - Rosa Adella, Robert Franklin and Ada Susan. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Wenger has held the office of Township Clerk for two terms. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, 'Lodge No. 59. He owns 440 acres of well- improved land, with fine farm buildings thereon.