Ashland City (part 17 of 57)

Jacob Brubaker was reared amid the environments of rural life, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist as he assisted in the plowing, planting and harvesting. Through the winter months he attended the public schools and thus acquired his education to the age of sixteen years, when he began his career as a farm hand. Two years later, however, thinking to find commercial pursuits more congenial and profitable than the work of the farm, he came to Ashland and entered a mercantile establishment as a clerk for J. Cahn. There he laid the foundation for his later success in the mercantile world, gaining thorough knowledge of business methods and an understanding of the requirements of commercial success. Ambitious that his labors might directly benefit himself, at the age of twenty-one years he became a member of the firm of J. P. Graham & Company, continuing active in its management from 1863 until 1866, when he withdrew from that partnership and, in company with his brother David F. Brubaker, purchased the store of Thomas Hughes. They then conducted the business under the firm style of Brubaker Brothers and continued in that field until 1870, when W. G. Heltman bought into the firm, after which the store was conducted under the style of the Brubaker Brothers & Heltman. This partnership continued for two or three years when Mr. Heltman sold out and W. W. Moore came into the firm, the name becoming J. Brubaker & Company. There is possibly not a man in Ashland that has been so closely identified with the business interests of the city nor a man who has done more to develop its commercial activity and consequent prosperity. Mr. Brubaker has always closely studied the public taste as well as the market and has ever carried a large and well selected line of goods, while his business methods are such as neither seek nor require disguise. In all his undertakings he has manifested tireless energy, keen perception and the ability to plan the right thing at the right time, joined to everyday common sense.

In his religious faith Mr. Brubaker is a Methodist and takes an active interest in the church to which he belongs. In politics he is a democrat and served for one term in the '80s as mayor of Ashland, giving to the city a publicspirited, business-like and progressive administration. In all matters relative to the general welfare he takes an active interest and his cooperation can always be counted upon to further movements for the city's good. No merchant of Ashland is better known and none more fully deserves or receives the good will and confidence of their fellowmen.

William Keck

The growth and upbuilding of the community depend not so much on the machinery of government or the men who occupy the public offices, as upon the enterprise and well directed activity of the representatives of business life. In this connection William Keck deserves mention, for he is well known in commercial circles in Ashland, being proprietor of the leading jewelry store of the city. His business career has been characterized by unfaltering industry, undaunted perseverance and energy that never flags. His birth occurred in the city of Hamm, in Westphalia, Germany, September 7, 1842, his parents being Christopher and Christina (Kneer) Keck, both of whom spent their entire lives in that city, where the father figured prominently in community interests as superintendent of the Royal Academy for fifty-seven years. His entire life was given to work of that, character and he was one of the best known educators in the province of Westphalia, his labors proving a potent element in the intellectual development of the community. He lived to the venerable age of eightv-seven years and enjoyed in full measure the confidence and respect of all who knew him.

William Keck was reared at home and acquired his education in the Royal Academy, from which he was graduated as a member of the class of 1858. His education began when he was four years of age, at which time he was so small that, sitting on the benches, his feet would not touch the floor. During the latter part of his college course he was also learning the jeweler's trade in the store of an uncle in the city of Hamm, and after completing his apprenticeship he traveled through the leading cities of Europe, working at his trade as was then the custom for those who had just completed an apprenticeship, winning for them the name of journeymen. At the age of twenty years he enlisted in the army of King William, later emperor of Germany, and served for three years, participating in four of the most important engagements in the Prussian and Austrian war - the battles of Koenigsgratz, Langensalze, Achaffenburg and Helmstadt. Mr. Keck was known to have done more reconnoitering and spy work for the regiment than any one in the command and for the valuable services rendered he was given a medal which he has every reason to prize highly, for few win the honor.

After serving his time in the army Mr. Keck journeyed through the leading cities, working at his trade, until 1868, when the thought of obtaining better opportunities in the new world led him to cross the Atlantic to the United States. He landed at New York on the 4th of July, and for six months remained in the eastern metropolis, after which he went to Bridgeport, Connecticut, for a short time. In 1869 he made his way westward to Gallipolis, Ohio, where he was employed at his trade for four years. In 1873 he came to Ashland where he arrived in February, accepting a position here with H. F. Van Tilburg, one of the leading jewelers of the town at that time. He was associated with him until 1887 and during the latter years of their connection Mr. Keck was a partner in the business. In 1887 he purchased Mr. Van Tilburg's interest and since that time has continued the enterprise independently. He is a man of sterling integrity and there are no merchants in Ashland who have a wider circle of close friends and warm admirers. As a consequence he has built up a large and prosperous business and is today proprietor of the leading jewelry establishment of the city.

It was on the 11th of May, 1874, that Mr. Keck laid the foundation for a happy home life in his marriage to Miss Elizabeth Wentz, of Mansfield, a daughter of Jacob and Charlotte (Knoutz) Wentz, both of German extraction, their parents coming to the United States from Bavaria. Mr. and Mrs. Keck have two children : Albertina, the wife of Raymond Pancoast, of Ashland, Ohio, by whom she has one child, Frances ; and Helen, deceased.

Mr. Keck is a member of the Catholic church. He also belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. 0. F. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the United States for he has here found the business opportunities he sought and in their management has reached an important position in trade circles of the city, while his strongly marked characterictics have gained for him the respect and confidence of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

Charles L. Sellers

No history of commercial activity in Ashland would be complete without mention of Charles L. Sellers, the senior partner of the firm of Sellers & Good, who are conducting a large and profitable trade in dry goods and carpets. Throughout his connection with business interests Charles L. Sellers has made steady progress prompted by a laudable ambition. Regarding no position as final, he moves on from each to a more advanced one and every forward step brings him a broader outlook and wider opportunities. He was born in Fayette county, Ohio, September 15, 1863, and is a son of Albert and Charity Sellers, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye state. The father spent his active life as a farmer in Fayette county and on retiring from business in 1880 he removed to Washington C. II., where he resided until 1886, when he became a resident of Springfield, Ohio, there making his home until his death in 1893. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church and his entire life was in harmony with his professions. His widow survives and is yet a resident of Springfield, Ohio.

Reared on his father's farm, Charles L. Sellers, acquired his early education in the district schools and afterward attended the high school of Washington C. PI. In early life, he, together with two brothers, being thrown on their own resources, secured employment in a grocery store in Washington C. H. For two years he was identified with that line of trade and then turned his attention to his chosen commercial line, the dry-goods business, securing a clerkship at the nominal salary of three dollars per week. He spent seven years with that firm, during which time his increasing usefulness and business enterprise won him promotion after promotion in position with increases in salary. He afterwards spent four years with another firm as buyer and manager of their dress goods and carpet department, and during the eleven years of his clerkship saved from his earnings a sum sufficient to enable him to engage in business on his own account, engaging in the dry goods and carpet business in Indiana, disposing of the business there after two years. He then opened a store in London, Ohio, and met with success in his undertakings there, from the start, being a representative of mercantile interests in that place for ten years, or until 1903, when he disposed of his business in London and came to Ashland, where he purchased the interest of Christ Kunkel in the firm of Kunkel & Good, proprietors of the leading dry goods store of Ashland. In the ensuing six years Mr. Sellers has been at the head of the business and is recognized as a prominent representative of commercial interests here. He is a splendid type of the selfmade man, who at the outset of his career, started at the lowest roimd of the ladder, and by close application to his chosen business, formed the nucleus of his capital that in after years brought success in the commercial world. Round by round he has climbed the ladder of success and now stands on the plane of affluence. For more than twenty-six years, with the possible exception of about ninety days, he has been closely connected with mercantile interests and his acquaintance with the wholesale and manufacturing trade of the country is a broad one. He possesses a most progressive, determined spirit, believes that there is always opportunity for going ahead and in all his business relations he has been found reliable, never incurring obligations that he has not met nor making engagements that he does not fill.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Sellers was married in 1885 to Miss Flora M. Price, of Washington C. H., and they have two children : Charles Wilbur, who is attending the Ohio Wesleyan College at Delaware, Ohio; and Elizabeth Pauline, a high school student in Ashland. The family reside at No.

26, Sandusky street and are prominent in the social circles of the city. They attend the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mr. Sellers is a member and he is also identified with the Commercial Club of Ashland, with Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., Ashland Chapter R. A. M., and Confidence Lodge, No. 265, K. P., of Washington C. H. While he does not claim for himself any superiority by reason of what he has accomplished, it is well known that comparatively few make such continuous progress in the race of life or win their success by more honorable, straightforward methods.

Dr. Thornton P. Crowell, who for more than forty years has been numbered among the successful medical practioners of Ashland county, was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, on the 24th of November, 1845, his parents being George E. and Mary Ann (Sampsel) Crowell, who came to Ashland about the year 1853. The father was a brick mason by trade, engaged in the building and contracting business and became very prominent in that line of activity, most of the large and best residences and business blocks of Ashland having been erected by him. For a time he was also engaged in the manufacture of brick and remained an active and successful representative of the building interests of the county seat until called to his final rest.

Thornton P. Crowell supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the schools of Ashland, by attendance at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he began studying with that end in view but at the time of the Civil war he put aside all personal considerations and enlisted for service in the Union army as a member of Company A, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He continued as a soldier until the close of the war, seeing active service with the Army of the Cumberland and the eastern army, but returned home unscathed, having neither received a wound nor been taken prisoner during his entire term of enlistment. When the country no longer needed his aid he continued his preparation for his chosen calling, reading under the direction of Drs. Sampsel and Glass of Ashland, while later he attended the Western Reserve Medical College of Cleveland, which institution conferred upon him the degree of M. D. in 1867. In that year he located for practice at Olmstead Falls, Cuyahoga county, but in the following year came to Nankin, in Orange township, Ashland county, where he has since prosecuted his profession. That he has been successful and progressive in the practice of both medicine and surgery is indicated by the large and ever increasing patronage that has been accorded him and also by the excellent results which have attended his efforts. He owns a well improved and valuable farm in the vicinity of Nankin and in its supervision finds both recreation and pleasure.

Dr. Crowell has been married twice. On the 16th of October, 1875, he wedded Miss Emma J. Shariek, a daughter of John and Margaret (Fluke) Shariek, representatives of two of the most prominent and earliest pioneer families of Orange township. By this union there was born a son, Clarence P., who is married and is engaged in the jewelry business at Mineral City, Ohio. Mrs. Emma J. Crowell passed away in January 1890, and on the 14th of July, 1892, Dr. Crowell was again married, his second union being with Miss Eliza C. Sharick, a sister of his first wife. Unto them have been born two children, Leon H. and Margaret L., both of whom are attending school in Nankin and living at home with their parents.

In politics Dr. Crowell is a stalwart democrat and his cooperation can be counted upon in every movement instituted to advance the general welfare. For a number of years he served as treasurer of Orange township and at the present time is a member and treasurer of the board of education, the cause of public instruction ever finding in him a stanch champion. For many years he has been on the board of trustees of the Presbyterian church, to which the members of his family also belong, taking an active and helpful interest in church and Sunday school work. His life is exemplary in all respects and he has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while his own high moral worth is deserving of highest commendation.

George Young

Loudonville numbers George Young among the retired farmers who now live within its borders. He was well known for a number of years as a leading, practical and progressive farmer of Hanover township and in fact spent his entire life on the farm up to the time that he took up his abode in the village. His birth occurred October 27, 1857, in Holmes county, his parents being Adam and Barbara (Hamm) Young, both of whom were natives of Alsace, Germany, the former born October 10, 1822, and the latter on the 8th of March of the same year. They were married in their native country in 1849, and came to the United States in 1853, settling first in Holmes county and then came to Hanover township, Ashland county, about a mile and a half south of Loudonville. They spent their remaining days in this township, Adam Young giving his attention to general agricultural pursuits for a long period but a few years prior to his death he removed to Loudonville, where he spent his last days. He was the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and eighteen acres and also his residence in the village and his possessions were the visible evidence of his life of well directed thrift and industry. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and he held membership in the Trinity Evangelical church in Loudonville. He died January 21, 1890, after which his widow resided on the old homestead with her son George until her demise on the 15th of August, 1906. They were the parents of five children : Barbara, who married Valentine Lemmel and had two children, while following his death she became the wife of William Graf, by whom she has three children; Adam, who married Barbara Heffelfinger, and died leaving a widow and seven children ; Katharine, who became the wife of Martin Yarman, and died leaving five children ; George of this review; and John, who died at the age of fifteen years.

A life uneventful as that of most farm boys constituted the experience of George Young in his youthful days. However, those who live near to nature learn lessons of value beyond those taught in the schools and usually develop a self-reliant character that constitutes an excellent basis for advancement and ultimate success. Mr. Young was trained to the work of the fields and soon learned the best methods of plowing, planting and cultivating the soil. After arriving at years of maturity he took charge of the old home farm and is now the owner of two hundred and forty-one acres of rich and productive land in Hanover township, about a mile and a half south of Loudonville on the Mount Vernon road. Here he has carried on general farming and stock raising for many years, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation .and also successfully managing his live-stock interests. At a recent date, however, he put aside the more arduous cares of the farm which he turned over to his son and established his home in Loudonville to enjoy the leisure which comes as a result of his earnest labor, his thrift and perseverance in former years.

In 1880 Mr. Young was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Louisa Snively, who was born in Washington township, Holmes county, Ohio, about a mile and a half from Loudonville, on the 5th of December, 1860. Her parents were Frederick and Margaret (Lovingood) Snively, natives of Alsace, Germany. The mother was born in 1819 and came to America in 1829. On the 13th of March, 1839, she was married to Mr. Snively and after a happy married life of fifty-three years, passed away in Washington township, Holmes county, December 24, 1891. Mr. Snively was born October 14, 1814, and arrived in the United States in 1830. He died on the home farm in Washington township, January 19, 1898. Their family numbered six sons and five daughters.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Young were born six children : Alfred, of Barberton, Ohio, who is married and has two children : Harley and Raymond ; Fred, who is a teacher in the home district and resides on a part of the home farm, and is married and has three children : Mabel, Eva and Wilbert; Annie, wife of William Young, of Holmes county, by whom she has a daughter, Beatrice; Mary, Ida and Elmer, all at home. Mr. and Mrs. Young hold membership in the Trinity Evangelical church of Loudonville and are people of genuine personal worth, enjoying in a large measure the esteem and confidence of those who know them. In his political views Mr. Young is a democrat and for nine years served as a township trustee, his reelection being proof of the trust reposed in him by his fellow townsmen and of the capable manner in which he discharges his duties. He is interested in all that pertains to public progress and his influence is always on the side of justice, truth, advancement and reform.

Lorin C. Duller

Lorin C. Miller, one of the worthy native sons and representative citizens of Ashland, is a son of John and Lydia (Cunningham) Miller, natives of Washington county, Pennsylvania, who removed from Wayne county, Ohio, to Ashland in the '40s. The father's death occurred in this city in 1893, when he

Lorin C. Miller was raised at home and attended the Ashland high school in the acquirement of an education. When seventeen years of age he obtained employment as a clerk in a grocery store and after being thus engaged for three years he went to Pittsburg and for a similar period represented a firm as traveling salesman. He then returned to Ashland and for a period of three years conducted a grocery establishment but at the end of that time he became identified with the drug trade and for about twenty years has remained as prescription clerk for the concern now known as the Ashland Drug Company, although the enterprise has undergone two distinct changes during the period of his connection therewith. For the past fifteen years he has been treasurer of the Ashland opera house and is widely recognized as a progressive and successful business man as well as a genial and public-spirited citizen. He has also served as assistant chief of the Ashland fire department for the past five years and his influence and aid can ever be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted for the general welfare.

In religious faith Mr. Miller is a Presbyterian and a member of the church choir. He has a deep, rich bass voice and for many years was one of the best known vocalists in this section, singing at funerals and in quartettes all over this part of the country. He is well known and highly esteemed in Ashland, where nearly his entire life has been spent, and the circle of his friends is almost co-extensive with the circle of his acquaintances.

John Peters

One of the well improved farms of Lake township is that of John Peters, who is recognized as a practical and progressive man whose careful management of his business affairs has brought him substantial success. His life record began in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, on the 24th of June, 1848, his parents being Jacob and Margaret (Metzer) Peters, who were natives of Alsace, France, in which country they were reared and married. The father was born in 1809 and the mother in 1810, and their marriage was celebrated about 1837. Tht, year 1840 witnessed their arrival in Holmes county, Ohio, and they took up their abode upon a farm, upon which Mrs. Peters died in 1866. Mr. Peters was a weaver by trade but gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits in this country. After the death of his wife he made his home with his son John until his own demise, in 1888. He was twice married and had two sons by the first union: George, who is now living in Norwalk, Ohio; and Jacob, deceased. By the second marriage there were also two children: Margaret, now the wife of George Kopp, of Lakeville ; and John, of this review.

The latter continued a resident of his native township until he had attained his majority, when he took up his abode in Lake township, Ashland county, where he has made his home continuously since 1869. The occupation to which he was reared he has made his life work and through his capable management and unfaltering industry he has gained a place among the substantial residents of this part of the county. His farm is a good tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southeast quarter of section 15, Lake township. On this he has a splendid bank barn, eighty-four by thirty-six feet, which he erected. He has remodeled the dwelling and keeps everything about the place in good repair. The farm is divided into fields of convenient size, surrounded by well kept fences, and the latest improved machinery is used to facilitate the work of the fields. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and also keeps good grades of stock.

In 1866 Mr. Peters was united in marriage to Miss Katharine Long, who was born in Lake township, November 18, 1844, and is a daughter of George and Margaret (Merkling) Long, who are mentioned elsewhere in this volume in connection with the sketch of David Long. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Peters have been born four children : Sarah Anna, who is the wife of Carl Maurer and lives on the home farm; George W.. who died November 30, 1908, in his fortieth year; Caroline Margaret, the wife of Gus Bernhard, of Lake township; and Mary Jane, a milliner. The family are pleasantly located on one of the good farms of Lake township, and in addition to the home place Mr. Peters has forty acres on section 11, in the same township, and from this tract he gave the site of the Lutheran church of McZena. Both he and his wife are members of that church hpd are generous in its support. In his political views Mr. Peters is a stalwart democrat and has served as township trustee for two terms, has been school director and also supervisor of roads. He has ever been practical in his efforts to promote general progress and improvement and his labors in that direction have been effective and far-reaching. At the same time he has carefully managed his business affairs with the result that he has met with a substantial degree of success.

L. A. Williams, the founder and promoter of the Ashland Monument Company, is conducting a successful and growing business, but the accumulation of wealth is not the end and aim of his life nor do his industrial interests bar out his active participation in those movements which are promoting the material, intellectual, political and moral welfare of the community. Born in Wellington, Ohio, on the 1st of July, 1876, L. A. Williams is a son of S. A. and Francis (Avery) Williams. It is not definitely known whether his father was a native of Michigan or New York, but his parents located in Michigan at an early day, the grandfather of our subject there dying when his son, S. A. Williams, was but two years of age, while his mother later married again and afterward removed to Lorain county, Ohio, where the son was reared to manhood and married. At the time of the Civil war he enlisted for service in defense of the Union, becoming a member of Company A, Sixty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was but fifteen years old when he offered his services to the government, and though but a boy in years, he was fearless in defense of the old flag and remained at the front until the close of hostilities. When the country no longer needed his service he returned home and in 1872 was married. He has since lived in Wellington and for twelve years was marshal of the town and also night watchman. Later he served for several years as field manager for various publishing houses but is now living retired in Wellington, enjoying a well earned rest.

Under the parental roof L. A. Williams spent the days of his boyhood and the common schools afforded him his educational privileges. However, he is largely a self-educated man, for owing to the illness of his mother and the comparative poverty of his parents, for there was a large family of children it was necessary for him to provide for his own support from the age of eleven years. Although he attended school to some extent after this, he met the expenses of his course through his own labor. At the outbreak of the Spanish- American war he enlisted in the service as a member of Company F, Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he was connected for six months. After his discharge on the 26th of October, of that year, he returned to Ohio and took up his abode in Columbus, becoming a stockholder and director of the Columbus Saw Mill Company. Pie afterward engaged in buying and exporting white oak and walnut timber and developed an important business in that line. He was connected therewith for about six years, but in 1900 withdrew from the Columbus Saw Mill Company and established a monument business in West Salem, Ohio. He retained his residence in that place for nearly two years, when he came to Ashland to find a larger and more advantageous field for his business. He had made a verbal agreement with J. I. Dorland to purchase his business but after Mr. Williams' arrival in Ashland Mr. Dorland refused to soil and therefore Mr. Williams established himself in business in other quarters. Two years later, however, Mr.Dorland signified his willingness to fulfill his part of the contract and Mr. Williams took over the business and later purchased the property and buildings in which he is now conducting his enterprise. He 'has a thoroughly modern plant, and taking the rough stone he carries it through the various stages until it is turned out a finished and beautiful monument. Ilis patronage has grown rapidly and, while his trade is extensive throughout the state, he also ships as far west as the State of Washington. Each year as it passed chronicled a substantial growth in his business and he is today one of the prominent representatives of industrial interests here. On January 1, 1909, the business was organized into a stock company of which Mr. Williams is president and general manager.

In 1900 Mr. Williams was married to Miss Emma Naftzger, a daughter of 8. 8. and Lydia (Berry) Naftzger, of West Salem, now residents of Ashland. Their children are Naftzger Avery and Lovis Arlin. The parents hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church in the work of which they are actively and helpfully interested. Mr. Williams is now teacher of one of the largest Sunday-school classes in the state, having a membership of one hundred and seventy, and was president of the class for three years. This class has been in existence for three years and is proving a potent element for good in the moral progress of Ashland. His political allegiance is given to the republican party where questions of national importance are involved, but at local elections he casts an independent vote. He is one of the active supporters of the present organization of the Business Men's Association. He has always stood in the vanguard of progress and any movement for the good of the community at large will always find him among the leaders. He is now numbered among the successful business men of Ashland. With him there is no dividing line between commercial interests and religion and his life is an exemplification of the truth : "Seek ye first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you, ' ' for his temporal prosperity has followed his devotion to the church and to the life purposes as outlined in. the teachings of the lowly Nazarene. He is in all things alert, energetic and progressive, and Ashland has reason to number him among her valued residents.

Duff Pancoast

Duff Pancoast, a leading druggist of Ashland and head of the firm of Pancoast & Spencer, was born here February 29, 1868, a son of Ohio and Adeline (Murray) Pancoast. His father a native of Johnsville, this state, came to this place when a lad with his parents, his father, the grandfather of the subject of this review, having also engaged in the drug business in which he was a pioneer of this city, continuing in the enterprise for many years. Upon his death he was succeeded by his son, Ohio Pancoast, who during the later years of his life was identified with the insurance business. He was a stanch supporter of the republican party and although not an office seeker he was a strong advocate of its principles and was a delegate to the national convention which nominated James A. Garfield for president. Prominent in Masonic circles he was a member of the Blue Lodge and also of the Commandery and, being a man well known for his aggressive spirit, he was an influential asset to the commercial interests of the city. He departed this life in 1888. He reared a family of three children, namely : Anna, the wife of A. C. Bugniard; residents of this city ; Ray, also of this place; and Duff.

Duff Pancoast, who succeeded his father in the drug business established by his grandfather, was reared in Ashland where he acquired his preliminary education in the common schools and subsequently completed courses of study in the high school and the pharmaceutical department of the Ohio Normal University, at Ada. He was practically born to the drug business, from early childhood having been employed about his father's establishment, and after his father disposed of the business to Rhodes & Hess, he remained in the employ of that firm for three years. It was at this period of his life that he pursued a course of study in pharmacy at the Ohio University, after graduating from which institution he returned to this city and was employed by J. W. Brant as a pharmacist and later by Fred J. Backley. In February, 1899, he engaged in business for himself in partnership with W. H. Carter, the firm being known under the name of Pancoast & Carter. This partnership existed but one year when Mr. Pancoast bought out the interest of his associate and conducted the business independently until March, 1906, when he affiliated with him David H. Spencer, changing the firm name to that of Pancoast & Spencer. The store is one of the most modern in every particular, and, being conducted upon progressive lines, is very popular throughout the city and has an extensive patronage. Moreover he conducts a drug store in Plymouth, Ohio, where he does a large business and enjoys an enviable reputation in pharmaceutical circles.

In 1898 Mr. Pancoast was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Eoller, of Ashland, a daughter of Wesley Roller, deceased, and the couple have one daughter, Helen Louise. Prominent among fraternal organizations Mr. Pancoast belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. ; Ashland Chapter, No. 67, R. A. M. ; Mansfield Council, No. 94, R. & S. M. ; Mansfield Commandery, No. 21, K. T. ; Elida Lodge of Perfection; and Lake Erie Consistory, A. & A. S. R. He is a member of the Ashland Board of Trade and also of the Ashland Commercial Club, in both of which organizations he is a live factor, and, ever ready to promote measures for the betterment of the community, he is a valuable factor in its business coterie.

Horace A. Roberts

Horace A. Roberts, of Nankin, who since January, 1901, has efficiently served as rural free delivery carrier, is one of the substantial and progressive citizens of the county. He was born in Orange township on the 16th of February, 1860, a son of Harvey and Mary (Risher) Roberts, the former being a native of Vermont. In 1825, the paternal grandfather, Aaron Roberts, and James Murray, of Orange township, met at a church conference at Cincinnati and on becoming acquainted and finding that they had one hundred and seventy and one hundred and sixty acres of land respectively, they agreed to exchange farms sight unseen. The following year Aaron Roberts brought his family to Ashland county, Ohio, and settled on the property for which he had exchanged his homestead in the Green Mountain state, but the place was covered with timber, which he had to clear away before the land could be utilized for farming purposes. He was successfully identified with agricultural interests here until the time of his retirement, when he took up his abode in Ashland, there remaining until called to his final rest. Harvey Roberts, the father of our subject, who accompanied his parents on their removal westward, followed flat boating on the Ohio river and later went to Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Subsequently, however, he took up farming on the old family homestead in Orange township and carried on agricultural pursuits until he retired from active business. His demise occurred in Ashland on the 1st of November, 1895, while his wife passed away December 24, 1900, the community thus losing two of its most honored, respected and representative residents. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, four sons and one daughter, namely: John, who is deceased; James A.; Howard M. ; Horace A., of this review ; and Laveda, the wife of C. P. Winbigler, of Ashland.

Horace A. Roberts was reared on his father's farm and obtained his education in the district schools. After attaining man's estate he engaged in railroading on the Erie road for two years, on the expiration of which period he returned to the old home place and for a number of years carried on general farming and stockraising, meeting with well merited prosperity in his undertakings. In 1899 he took up his abode at his present place in Nankin and from there superintended his farming interests. He was appointed rural free delivery carrier in January, 1901, and has thus capably served to the present time.

On the 10th of June, 1883, Mr. Roberts was united in marriage to Miss Florence Wiley, a daughter of George and Urania (Gearhart) Wiley, of Montgomery township, both of whom are deceased. The father followed agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have been born six children: Charles O., a resident of Ashland; William McKinley; Milo A. ; and three who died in infancy.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Roberts has given his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has been an active worker in its local ranks. He has been a member of the central committee for many years, a delegate to county, district and state conventions and has frequently been a candidate for office but failed of election, the party being in the minority in his township and county. He is a stalwart advocate of all public improvements along the line of material, intellectual and moral advancement and is a most public-spirited, progressive and loyal citizen. Fond of fishing and hunting, he indulges his love of those sports when on trips to Michigan and elsewhere and is likewise a great admirer of a fine horse. Practically his entire life has been passed in this county and the favorable regard entertained for him by his fellow townsmen is proof that his career has been an honorable one.

Harry B. Yanosdall

Harry B. Vanosdall, a member of the firm of H. B. Yanosdall & Brother, furniture dealers of Ashland, was born here May 30, 1868. He acquired his preliminary education in the public schools, subsequently completing a course in the high school and for one term attended Ashland College. lie began his business career early in life and when eighteen years of age opened a barber shop, following that occupation for ten years, and for three years of this period he had the agency for domestic papers and at the same time engaged in the realestate business. Prior to opening the barber shop he worked in a grocery store. He was quite successful in his undertakings and while in the paper business ht conceived the idea of entering the legal profession, and to prepare himself foi this vocation he took up Sprague's Correspondence course in law, which he continued for a period of two years, at the termination of which time he concluded that he would rather follow a business life, and in 1899, in partnership with his brother, he established himself in the furniture trade. Both men being industrious and energetic, they soon succeded in establishing a large trade so that at present their business is one of the most considerable in the city. So favorable have been his commercial relations that he has been justified in entering upon a wider business career, and in addition to being a stockholder and director of the Reliable Match Company, of which he was among the organizers, he and his brother also own a half interest in the Improved Manufacturing Company and Mr. Yanosdall is also vice president of the Ashland Building & Loan Association. He had practically nothing with which to begin his business career, and deserves great credit for the rapid strides he has made in the commercial world, his success being due to his diligence and perseverance, reenforced by excellent business judgment and untiring energy.

On November 22, 1892, Mr. Yanosdall was united in marriage to Miss Emma Arnold, a daughter of Samuel L. Arnold, of this city, and the couple have ont daughter, Kathleen. He belongs to Montgomery Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. 0. F., is a member of the volunteer fire company of this city, of which for six years he has been secretary, and belongs to that denomination of Christians known as the Disciples of Christ. He is in every particular worthy of honor and respect, as a representative citizen whose aggressive spirit and laudable ambition have enabled him to rise in the commercial world from comparative obscurity, until at present he is ranked among the moneyed men of the community. He and his brother, Henry N. Yanosdall, with whom he is associated in the furniture business, own considerable real estate in various parts of the city. They are among the prosperous and aggressive merchants of this vicinity and have not only largely contributed to their own prosperity but their commercial industries have greatly enhanced the city's financial worth.

John Stoner

John Stoner, one of the venerable, respected and representative citizens of Milton township, where he has for many years been successfully engaged in farming aod stock raising, was born on the 25th of November, 1836, his parents being David and Barbara (Bechtel) Stoner, both natives, of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. The father came to Ashland county, Ohio, in early life, taking up a quarter section of land here when this district was almost entirely covered with timber. He cleared the place and as the years passed developed a valuable farm and made a good home for his family. On this property, which is now in possession of his son John, he spent the remainder of his useful and honorable life, his sons assisting him in the cultivation of the fields until they reached years of maturity. His children were four in number, namely: Jacob, John, Abram and David.

In his youthful days John Stoner divided his time between the mastery of the lessons assigned him at the district school and the work of the home farm. After attaining adult age he worked at the carpenter's trade for several years but subsequent to the death of his parents he purchased the interests of the other heirs in the old homestead place and has here since been engaged in general farming and stock raising, meeting with a well deserved and commendable measure of prosperity in both branches of his business. He is practical and progressive in all that he does and is accounted one of the leading and substantial citizens of the community.

In 1871 Mr. Stoner was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Hartman, a daughter of Henry Hartman, and they have one child, Cora, who is now the wife of J. O. Bally. In his political affiliation, Mr. Stoner is a stanch republican, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the United Brethren church. Throughout the long years of his residence in this county he has gained an extensive circle of warm friends, his upright manhood and genuine personal worth having won him the regard and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

Charles Enck

Charles Enck, stockholder and general manager of the Improved Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of children's wearing apparel, of Ashland, and one of the energetic young business men of this city, whose brief period of commercial life has already given him high standing in the financial circles of the city, is a native of Hayesville, this county, where his birth occurred January 3, 1880. His parents, Joseph and Julia (Wenger) Enck, were natives of Pennsylvania, reared in the city of Reading, where they were united in marriage. Subsequently coming to this county and locating in Hayesville, the father there followed the carpenter trade for a number of years, and in 1884 removed to this city where for some time he was employed as a machinist in the Myers Shops. After leaving the employ of that firm, he gave up active life and is now living in retirement. His wife entered into rest in 1907. The elder Mr. Enk is a democrat, always loyal to the candidates of his party and is also a veteran of the Civil war, having served throughout the entire conflict, in which he received a gun-shot ^ound, causing him much subsequent suffering.

Charles Enck was reared in the home of his parents and when he was three years old fcame to this city, where his boyhood days were spent, during which time he received his education in the public schools. When fifteen years of age, desirous of entering the business world, he secured a position in the machine shops of F. E. Myers & Brother, where he served an apprenticeship as a machinist and for seven years was employed by this company as a journeyman. In 1903, in company with others, Mr. Enck engaged in the manufacturing business, organizing what was known as the Improved Gaiter Company, of which he was made manager. The factory had been in operation something over three years when the present larger manufacturing firm was organized, of which Mr. Enck was made general manager, the duties of which office he is now performing with remarkable ability. The enterprise, which was commenced in a modest way, has grown to one of considerable magnitude and is now among the city's important industries, thirty-five men being employed in the factory, manufacturing a high grade of children's wearing apparel, in which the firm does an immense shipping business throughout this state and in fact throughout the entire country.

In 1902 Mr. Enck wedded Mamie Phillips, a daughter of D. A. Phillips, a wealthy contractor of this city, and the couple have one child, David P. While

Mr. Enck is a democrat politically, loyal to his party m national and state politics, he is very liberal in his views relative to municipal matters and 'casts his vote for such candidates as he judges best fitted to serve in the offices they seek irrespective of their party affiliations. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. 0. F., and holds membership with the Disciples of Christ, being a leading factor in the affairs of the church. Mr. Enck is a worthy example of a truly self-made man. While a boy employed in the Myers & Brother Machine Shops, he determined to become independent in life, and by bringing to the surface his latent business qualities he soon found himself capable of transacting large affairs. In the manufacturing business he is meeting with a full measure of success and today justly deserves a place among the city's mast reliable and representative business men.

John Fluke

John Fluke, numbered among the prosperous, influential and respected citizens of Ashland county, has spent his entire life on the farm in Orange township on which he still resides, his time and energies having been given tjo general farming and stock-raising throughout his active business career. He was bora on the 4th of June, 1831, his parents being Philip and Mary Summers Fluke. The father, whose birth occurred in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1791, wedded Miss Mary Summers about 1811 and unto them were born eleven children, namely: Henry, Lewis, Samuel, Philip, Catherine, Jacob, David, Eliza, Lucinda, Margaret and John. In 1816, a few years after his marriage, Philip Fluke made his way to Ohio, locating in Orange township, Ashland county, when this district was almost entirely covered with heavy timber and only here and there had a hardy pioneer ventured to establish his home. He was fully aware of the arduous labor that was before him and set to work with determined, resolute spirit. His first task was the erection of a small log cabin for himself and his family as a protection from the inclement weather and also from the wild beasts that nightly prowled in the vicinity. He then bent his energies to clearing a tract of land on which to plant corn, so that he might raise something for the subsistence of his family. In due time his original farm was cleared of the timber but, possessed of untiring energy and laudable ambition, he increased its boundaries from time to time, as his financial resources permitted, until his holdings aggregated eight hundred acres of productive and valuable land. When his sons reached maturity he gave each of them a farm of one hundred acres of improved land with which to make a start in life, for he was unwilling that they should undergo the trials and difficulties which beset him in early manhood. He passed away in 1867, having survived his wife by six weeks, and their remains were interred side by side in St. Luke's cemetery. Their exemplary lives and many virtues are still held in loving remembrance by their children and relatives.

Jacob Fluke, a brother of John Fluke of this review, was bom in 1820 and always resided on a farm adjoining the original homestead of the family, sue- cessf Tilly carrying on general agricultural pursuits as a life work. On the 25th of March. 1847, he wedded Miss Mary Gordon, whose birth occurred March 28, 1827. her father being John Gordon, of Orange township. By this union there were born three children, as follows: Mrs. Jennie L. Booles, whose natal day was August 23, 1850; J. Gordon, born November 11, 1856; and Mrs. Carrie L. Norris, who first opened her eyes to the light of day on the 3d of June, 1857. Jacob Fluke was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which he passed away July 11. 1884. his demise being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His farm still remains in possession of the family.

As before stated, John Fluke, the youngest son of Philip and Mary (Summers) Fluke, has always remained on the place where he was born and since attaining years of maturity has been engaged in general farming and stockraising with excellent success. He has made a specialty of raising sheep and short horn cattle raising, being a recognized authority on the subject and has long been numbered among the most substantial, progressive and esteemed citizens of his native county.

John Fluke has been married twice. On the 24th of November, 1864, he wedded Miss Elizabeth McDowell, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Sloan) McDowell and a representative of a prominent family of Ashland county. Three children were born to this union : J ames McDowell Fluke, a well known agriculturist of Orange township; Mary S., deceased; and Ethel C. The mother of these children passed away February 15, 1879, and on the 25th of February, 1880, Mr. Fluke was again married, his second union being with Miss Freelove A. Thomas, a daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth (Zimmerman) Thomas, of Orange township. Both the Thomas and Zimmerman families were among the early pioneers of this county, taking a prominent and helpful part in its material and moral development. Unto Mr. Fluke and his second wife have been born three children : Josiah T., Frederick W., and Orin R.

In his political views Mr. Fluke is a democrat and, though never an office seeker, is interested in the public welfare and has capably served his fellow townsmen in the position of township trustee for several years and also as a member of the school board. He formerly belonged to the Methodist Episcopal church and his entire life has been in harmony with his professions. Honesty, uprightness and integrity have ever been his salient characteristics and he is now spending his declining years in peace and plenty, with the consciousness of a well spent life that has won him the merited regard and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

S. G. Wiest, a representative of commercial interests in Ashland, where he is now conducting a well appointed and profitable drug store, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, June 28, 1850, his parents being Jacob and Margaret (Gates) Wiest, also natives of the same county. The father's death there occurred in 1902, while the mother is still living at the advanced age of eightythree years.

S. G. Wiest spent his youthful days in his parent's home and is indebted to the public school system of the state for the early educational opportunities afforded him. He also studied for a time in Pennsylvania College at Gettsyburg and when sixteen years of age he began teaching. Believing that he might have better business opportunities elsewhere than in his native locality, he turned his face westward in 1873 and on the 24th of June, arrived in Ashland. During the following fall and winter he taught the Ackley school in Vermillion township, this county, and in April, 1874, he entered the drug store of J. P. Harley to act as clerk and learn the business. On the 1st of February, 1878, he became proprietor of a store through the purchase of the business of Dr. G. B. Cole, then located the second door south of the building now occupied Dy the postoffice. Two months later, on the 1st of April, 1878, he rented a room on Main street below the Miller house, formerly occupied by Dr. W. K. Foltz and now occupied by the drug store of W. L. Rhoads & Company. In this room he placed new fixtures and modern equipment, moving his stock thereto, and conducted the business until 1880, when he sold out to E. W. Reaser. He then engaged in the manufacture of cigars in partnership with William Flinn, with whom he was associated for three years. In 1883, he purchased from C. A. Godman the drug store on Main street which he has since conducted, having carried on the business for more than a quarter of a century. He has a large and well selected line of goods and the tasteful arrangement of the store, together with his reasonable prices and unfailing courtesy in business dealings, has brought him enviable success.

In 1876, Mr. Wiest was married to Miss Belle Mansfield, of Ashland, and unto them have been bom three children : J ohn, a resident of this city ; Katherine, the wife of Zenith Wile, of Ashland, Ohio; and Fred C., who is pursuing architectural and special courses at the University of Pennsylvania, being now in his senior year. In politics Mr. Wiest is a stalwart democrat but without aspiration for office. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., Ashland Chapter, R. A. M., Mansfield Council, R. & S. M., Mansfield Commanded No. 21, K. T., Cleveland Consistory, A. & A. S. R., and A1 Koran Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Cleveland. He was formerly identified with the Odd Fellow and with the Knights of Pythias but does not keep up his connection with either organization at the present time. He possesses a genial disposition and his friends in Ashland are legion.

Ebenezer E. Wharton

There is a marked contrast between the fine residence which Ebenezer E. Wharton now occupies and the little log cabin in which he was born. One is an indication of his personal prosperity, the other of the condition which existed in the county at the time of his birth, a period in which the work of improvement and civilization had been carried on only to a slight extent. As the years passed he became an active factor in agricultural circles and is now extensively engaged in raising cattle and sheep. He was born in this county,

September 6, 1849, a son of James and Nancy (Williams) Wharton. The former was a son of John and Mary Wharton, both of whom were natives of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, where their four children were also born. These were James, Malinda, Mary and John Wharton. Having lost his first wife John Wharton married again and the children of that union were Thomas, Robert, Hulbert, Franklin, Minerva and Clara. It was in the year 1823 that John Wharton arrived with his family in Ohio, settling in what was then Richland and now Ashland county. All around him were the green woods, the trees standing in their primeval strength. In the midst of the forest he built a little cabin and commenced to clear away the trees that he might prepare the fields for cultivation. He became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land, converting it into a new farm, and with the early development of the county he was closely and helpfully associated.

James Wharton, whose birth occurred in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, November 30, 1817, was but five years of age when he accompanied his parents to Ohio. lie remained with his father until lie reached the age of ten years, when he started out to earn his own living. He made the attempt by working in a sugar camp, making maple sugar on shares, but lie lost all that he earned in that way. He next bought a calf but that went mad and afterward bought a colt and it died. These were disheartening ventures for a boy who must depend upon his own resources for a living, but being resolute and determined, he persevered in the face of obstacles and at last fate smiled upon his attempts. He could always see the bright side of everything and through speculation he added largely to hi/s resources, becoming in the course of years one of the wealthy and distinguished citizens of Ashland county. At the age of twenty-five years he purchased his first farm and kept increasing his holdings as his financial resources were augmented until he was at one time the owner of fourteen hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. He also dealt extensively in sheep and cattle, keeping on hand large flocks of sheep, owning as many as thirteen hundred head at one time, in which season his sale of wool amounted to more than five thousand dollars. He also engaged in buying and selling wool and handled sheep and cattle on a large scale. His success came as the direct result of his industry, careful management and judicious investment. He was a very influential man in his day and as financial resources increased he manifested a spirit of charity that was most generous and helpful, being always one of the first to respond to the call of the needy. His sympathy found expression in ready and liberal gifts of money and no one in want ever appealed to him in vain. In matters relative to the public welfare he also took a deep interest and served his community in several positions of importance, acting as one of the county commissioners for six years, while for many terms he was trustee. His judgment and advice were frequently sought by his neighbors, friends and associates, and his opinions were considered of great value. In 1838 he married Miss Nancy Williams, who was born in 1821, and they became the parents of nine children: Mrs. Adeline Hunter, who died in March, 1891; Ebenezer E. ; Mrs. Malinda Franks ; John A. ; Judson R. ; Willard C. ; Ulysses Grant; and two who died in infancy.

Ebenezer E. Wharton pursued his education in the district schools and remained upon the home farm until he had attained his majority. He was married at the age of twenty-five years and established his home in a little log cabin, but his wife has been of much assistance to him and his industry and perseverance have enabled him to work his way steadily upward. Carefully controlling his business affairs, he has at length become financially independent and something of his prosperity is indicated in the fact that in 1903 he erected a fine residence which is one of the attractive country homes of this part of the county. All of the other buildings upon his place are kept in good repair. Like his father, he is extensively engaged in raising sheep and has made much money in this way, being now one of the best known shippers in this portion of the state. He owns four hundred acres of valuable land and his success is continually increasing. He gives much credit to his wife for her sound judgment and the ability with which she has managed the household affairs while he has carried on the work of the fields or managed his live stock interests. He is regarded as an authority upon sheep, being familiar with the best breeds and handling only high grade stock.

In 1874 Mr. Wharton was married to Miss Lillie Loretta McCluskey, a daughter of John A. and Elizabeth McCluskey, and they became the parents of four children: James A., who was born February 13, 1876, and died in 1908; Charles Edward, born March 4, 1878; Judson, born July 27, 1880; and John William, September 7, 1882. Mr. Wharton and his family attend the United Brethren church in which he holds membership, and he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. His political endorsement is given to the republican party and he has been a delegate to several state conventions. He is numbered among the class of citizens on whom the community depends to further its best interests, for while he does not seek or desire office he is loyal to the public good and cooperates in many measures for its advancement. His record is in harmony with that of his father and grandfather who from an early period in the development of the county took a helpful part in shaping its policy and molding its destiny.

Herbert E. Enck

Herbert E. Enck, prominent in the financial affairs of this city as general manager of the M. & E. Manufacturing Company, producers of ladies' belts and children's wearing apparel, was born in Hayesville, May 28, 1877, a son of Joseph and Julia (Wenger) Enck, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. Reared in the city of Reading, where they were united in marriage, they subsequently came to this county and located in Hayesville, where the father followed the carpenter's trade for a number of years. In 1884 he removed to this city where for some time he was employed as a machinist in the Myers Shops and, after leaving the employ of that firm, he gave up active life and is now living in retirement. His wife entered into rest in 1907. The elder Mr. Enck is a democrat and has always been loyal to the candidates of his party. He is a veteran of the Civil war, having served throughout the entire conflict, in which he received a gun-shot wound, from which he has since endured much suffering.

The public schools of this city afforded Herbert E. Enck his education and at the age of eighteen years, being ambitious to become associated with the affairs of the commercial world and become independent in life, he secured a position in the office of F. E. Myers & Brothers, in whose employ he remained until 1903. At that early period of his career, becoming dissatisfied with working for others in a salaried position and determining not to pursue this course all his days, he resigned his position, in which he had served with great efficiency and benefit to the company, and organized the Improved Gaiter Company, launching out in the manufacturing business in November, 1903. At the organization of the firm he became general manager and transacted its affairs in an able manner until 1907, when solicitous to widen out in the commercial world he disposed of his interests and organized what is known as the M. & E. Manufacturing Company, of which he was also made general manager. In this connection he has since been performing his duties to the advantage of the interests of the business. The enterprise is constantly growing, the firm at present employing from thirty to forty operatives and supplying an immense local and out-of-town trade.

On February 22, 1907, Mr. Enck was united in marriage to Millie Ridgeley, a daughter of Frank Ridgeley, deceased, formerly a commercial salesman of this city. Mr. Enck is interested in religious work and with his wife attends divine services at the Christian church, of which he is a member and a leading factor. He is recognized as a conservative business man and the industry and aggressiveness, which he has thus far evidenced and which have been instrumental in placing him amid his present prosperous circumstances, bid fair to put him in a still higher position in the commercial and financial circles of the city.

Christian Kxjnkel

Christian Kunkel, who is now living retired in Ashland, was for many years numbered among the prominent and successful dry-goods merchants of the city. He was born in Knox county, Ohio, January 31, 1844, his parents being Samuel and Elizabeth (Staffer) Kunkel, who were natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and in early manhood and womanhood went with their respective parents to Knox county, Ohio, where they were married. They made their home in that county until 1854, when they came to Ashland county, locating in Mifflin township, where they spent their remaining days, the father passing away in 1863, while the mother survived until 1869, when she, too, was called to her final rest.

Christian Kunkel acquired his education in the common schools and remained at home until eighteen years of age, when he came to Ashland and for two years worked in a grocery store. He next clerked for two years in a drygoods store and at the end of that time, having carefully husbanded his resources, he purchased an interest in the dry-goods business of Brubaker Brothers, which

However, he eventually sold. A year later, in association with Brubaker Brothers, he purchased the business of M. B. Parmely, the enterprise being then conducted under the firm style of Brubaker & Kunkel. Subsequently I. H. Good was admitted to a partnership and the name of the firm was changed to Brubaker, Kunkel & Good, while still later L. J. Miller bought the interest of Mr. Brubaker and the concern became known as Kunkel, Good & Miller. This relation continued for about five or six years, when the interest of Mr. Miller was purchased and the business was then conducted under the style of Kunkel & Good until 1902, when Mr. Kunkel retired, selling out to Mr. Sellers. Since that time Mr. Kunkel has lived practically retired, his carefully conducted and well managed business interests in former years having brought to him a competence that now enables him to enjoy many of the luxuries and all of the comforts of life. He owns a valuable farm a mile east of Ashland and is widely recognized as one of the substantial, progressive and public-spirited residents of the city.

In 1866 Mr. Kunkel was joined in wedlock to Miss Margaret Jackson, of Ashland. By this union there have been born five children, four of whom still survive: Frank W., who is connected with the firm of Sellers & Good, drygoods merchants of this city ; Blanche, the wife of T. M. Harkness, an insurance man of Ashland; George, who follows agricultural pursuits in Montgomery township ; and Carrie, the wife of William Wiley, of Ashland, Ohio. The two sons, Frank W. and George, are extensive breeders of thoroughbred fox and coon hounds and ship their dogs to all parts of the country, their kennels being maintained on the home farm near Ashland. They began breeding hounds a few years ago on a small scale and have met with remarkable success in the venture, their business being now one of magnitude.

Mr. Kunkel gives his political allegiance to the democracy and for seven years has served continuously as a member of the city council, proving a faithful and efficient public official. He is interested in the city 's welfare and has taken an active and helpful part in every movement or measure instituted for its advancement along moral, intellectual and material lines. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, with which his wife is also identified. He has made his home in this county from early boyhood and the principles that have actuated his life have ever been such as to win for him the highest esteem and good will of his fellow townsmen.

Dr. Arthur LeRoy Garrison is one of the younger members of the medical fraternity, and although he has been located in Sullivan only for the past six years, he has a well established practice, which is constantly increasing each year. He is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred in Rochester township, Lorain county, his parents being George M. and Almeda (Jones) Garrison. The father was formerly engaged in merchandising in Rochester and both he and his wife still survive.

Dr. Garrison pursued his early education in the schools of Rochester, this being supplemented by a course in Berea College, at Berea, this state. Being favorably impressed with the profession of medicine as a life work, to this end he matriculated in the College of Physicians & Surgeons at Cleveland, completing his course, however, in Western Reserve University of that city with the class of 1902, his expenses being met by the money which he had saved from teaching for three years in the schools of Lorain, after he had completed his literary course. Following his graduation in 1902, he spent one year in hospital work in Cleveland, whereby he gained practical knowledge of the science of medicine and surgery and thus he was well qualified to engage in practice on his own account, when in 1903 he opened an office in Ravenna. However, Sullivan seemed to offer better opportunities for a general practitioner and after six months spent in Ravenna, he came to the latter city, opening an office here in January, 1903. From the beginning he met with success and it was but a short time ere he had a well established practice for he has demonstrated his skill and ability in the handling of many complex medical problems and his services are in almost constant demand.

Dr. Garrison chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Frances M. Campbell, the wedding ceremony being performed on the 8th of June, 1901. Mrs. Garrison is a daughter of Frank and Hannah (Lewis) Campbell, the former a prominent agriculturist of Lorain county, Ohio, and a veteran of the Civil war. The marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Garrison has been blessed with two daughters, Christine J. and Hortense L., but the latter is now deceased.

Politically the Doctor is a republican, while as a public-spirited citizen he is a strong advocate of good roads, good schools and all public movements which are calculated to better conditions and the best interests of his home locality. As a diversion from his professional duties he gives his leisure hours to the raising of chickens, being a fancier of high grade poultry and he is also a great lover of all kinds of thoroughbred animals. The Doctor is highly esteemed in Sullivan and vicinity, not only as a professional man but also as a citizen and friend of humanity who lives for the good he can do to his fellowman.

John A. Creyeling

John A. Creveling, who since September, 1905, has served as postmaster at Nankin, was born in Orange township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 27th of April, 1867, his parents being Francis and Rebecca (Duck) Creveling. The father, whose birth occurred in November, 1840, followed agricultural pursuits in Orange township throughout his active business career. He was an upright, industrious citizen, interested in all movements pertaining to the general welfare, and gave his political support to the republican party. For many years he was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which he passed away on the 1st of February, 1908. His wife still survives and is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which she resides.

John A. Creveling, the eldest in a family of six children, four of whom are still living, a brother and sister being deceased, was reared upon the old homestead place and divided his time in his youthful years between attendance, at the schools of Nankin and the assistance which he gave his father in the work of the home farm. When twenty-four years of age he was married and for eleven years afterward was actively engaged in general agricultural pursuits. Failing health, however, convinced him of the necessity of securing employment requiring less physical exertion and in the spring of 1902 he came to Nankin with his family, accepting a clerkship with I. L. Fortney, who conducted a general mercantile store. He remained in that position until September, 1905, when he was appointed postmaster at Nankin, in which capacity he has served in a satisfactory and efficient manner to the present time. He has also studied photography and has become quite an expert in the use of the camera, making a specialty of postcard work, which proves a source of diversion as well as of revenue.

On the 4th of March, 1891, Mr. Creveling was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Murray, a daughter of Wilson and Isabelle (Stowe) Murray, of Richland county, the father being a prominent agriculturist. Unto our subject and his wife have been bom four children, namely: Connor M., Virgil W.,

In his political views Mr. Creveling is a stanch republican and has been prominent and active in the local councils of the party. He and the members of his family belong to the Presbyterian church and take a helpful part in both church and Sunday school work. They are likewise popular and prominent in social circles, their many excellent traits of character having won for them the warm esteem and regard of all with whom they have come in contact. Mr. Creveling has always lived in this county, so that his acquaintance is a wide one, and that he is best liked where best known is an indication that his salient characteristics are those which command respect and good will.

Hon. George W. Brubaker

Hon. George W. Brubaker is preeminently a man of affairs and one who has wielded a wide influence. He is accounted one of the leading farmers of Lake township and while successfully controlling his agricultural interests he has at the same time been a factor in the public life of the community and has been honored by his fellow townsmen with various local offices while twice he has been called to represent his district in the state legislature. A native of Pennsylvania he was born in Bedford county, January 12, 1828, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Burkhart) Brubaker. The father was born November 17, 1798, in Pennsylvania, and the mother's birth occurred near Altoona, that state, on the 5th of October, 1801. They were married November 28, 1819, and spent several years of their early married life in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, after which they went to Fayette county and in 1834 arrived in Ohio. The journey westward was made in a covered wagon drawn by three horses and after a long and weary trip through the forests they reached Mohican township and established their home near Mohican ville in that part of Wayne county which is now a part of Ashland county. Mr. Brubaker at once built a log cabin, eighteen by twenty feet in the midst of the dense forest. It had a puncheon floor and its furnishings were of a most primitive character. The father at once began to clear his land and place it under the plow while the family experienced many of the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life. Both he and his wife spent their last days in Lake township where his death occurred in January, 1862, while his wife passed away March 18, 1887. He had devoted his entire life to general farming, thus providing a comfortable living for his family while his labors were also an element in the reclamation of a wild western district which through the work of Mr; Brubaker and others was converted into a prosperous and populous section. In politics he was a Jacksonian democrat, stanchly advocating the principles promulgated by "Old Hickory,' ' for whom he voted. He also cast a presidential ballot for James Monroe and as the years passed he continued to support the democratic nominees until he was called from this life. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belonged. Their family numbered ten children: John, Ephraim and Joseph, all now deceased ; Margaret, who became the wife of the Rev. A. K. Owen, both of whom have now passed away ; George W. ; Elias P., living in Shandon, California; Mary Elizabeth, who married Dewitt Kean, both now deceased; Harrison A., who has departed this life ; Thomas M., who died in early life ; and Nancy Magdalene, the deceased wife of A. C. Kean, a brother of Dewitt Kean.

The Hon. George W. Brubaker was an infant at the time of the removal of the family to Fayette county, Pennsylvania, and was but six years of age when he arrived in Ohio so that practically his entire life has been passed in Ashland county. He was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of the frontier and remained upon the old homestead until twenty-one years of age, aiding in the work of clearing and cultivating the land. From early boyhood he was very active and at a time when most boys are concerned with the duties of the schoolroom and the pleasures of the playground he was engaged in driving a team in the fields taking part in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting. He became an expert cradler. When he began work of that character the cradle which he used was a very inferior construction but he kept making demands for a better cradle until he had one that suited him and with it he cradled eight acres of wheat in a day while later he cut ten acres in a day. Afterward he cut oats at the rate of eleven acres in a day on a field of seven acres. His cradle had an edge of fifty-four inches. His record surpassed any that has ever been made in this part of the state. He was blessed with great strength, vigor and endurance and could split one thousand rails in a day. He learned how best to conserve and use his energy and in his sixty-eighth year he cut one hundred shocks of corn with one hundred hills to the shock. He remained upon the old homestead until he attained his majority, at which time his father purchased a farm near the present home of our subject in Lake township and a removal was made to that place.

Mr. Brubaker's educational privileges in his boyhood were extremely limited but when nineteen years of age he became a student in Hayesville

Academy for three years and afterward took up the profession of teaching as a part of his regular work, continuing in active connection with the schools from 1848 until 1884, teaching each winter in the district schools. That he enjoyed a most excellent reputation in this direction goes without saying for his long connection with the schools at once manifests the ability which he displayed in his work. For one year he was superintendent of the Loudonville schools hut most of the time taught in the country. In the summer months during his early manhood he worked on farms in the neighborhood and eventually took up farming on his own account. He has done considerable clearing, having cleared about sixty acres in Lake township in addition to the work which he did in that direction in Mohican township. He was married in 1852 and purchased a small farm of fifty-seven acres in Green township in 1854. In the spring of 1855 he removed to his present home on section 6, Lake township, where he has since resided. His first purchase made him owner of seventy acres to which he has added from time to time until he now has three hundred acres in his home farm and an additional tract of one hundred and eight acres in Green township. The present substantial buildings on his place were erected by him and much of the land was cleared by Mr. Brubaker who has always been an energetic, industrious man, accomplishing what he has undertaken by reason of his persistency of purpose and capable management. He now makes a specialty of raising horses and at one time he also engaged quite extensively in raising sheep and hogs, his live-stock interests being an important feature of his place although he also gave considerable attention to the cultivation of grain. He practiced the rotation of crops, gave his soil needed rest and as the years passed annually gathered large harvests.

On the 21st of October, 1852, Mr. Brubaker was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Smith, who was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, July 14, 1829, and came to Ohio with her parents in the fall of 1834. She is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Barkdale) Smith, who were natives of Maryland, but spent their last days in Green township, Ashland county. On the journey westward they had a single horse hitched to a wagon in which they put their three little children and the household goods, while the father and mother walked most of the way. At length they settled in Jerome ville, which was then a part of Wayne county and subsequently took up their abode in Green township, where Mrs. Brubaker remained until her marriage. She was one of a family of six sons and six daughters and by her marriage she became the mother of ten children: Emma Elizabeth, the wife of Abel Goudy, who resides near Jeromesville ; Simpson A., who died at the age of three years ;. Saphronia, the wife of H. A. Cooper, of Ashland; Mary L., the wife of S. E. McKinley, of Hayesville: Rosella, the wife of R. F. Helbert, now deceased; Diantha, the wife of Reuben M. Butler, of Wayne county, Ohio ; Edson 0., of Lake township, who is living on the farm where his grandparents died; Anna Belle, the wife of Willis McGuire, of Vermillion township; George W., living in Green township; and a son who died in infancy.

Mr. Brubaker has been a lifelong democrat, unfaltering in his allegiance to the party. He cast his first presidential vote for James Buchanan and he can remember the presidential campaigns of William Henry Harrison, Polk, Taylor and Pierce. He has filled several local offices, serving as clerk and trustee while for nine years he was justice of the peace, his decisions during that time being strictly fair and impartial. In the fall of 1893 he was elected to the lower house of representatives and served so faithfully in the assembly that he was reelected for a second term in 1895. He thus aided in shaping the legislation of the state, giving to each question which came up for settlement his earnest consideration. When fifteen years of age he united with the Methodist Episcopal church and his Christian faith has been the guiding spirit of his entire life. He has served as class leader and recording steward in the Mohican church, has taken a very active part in this work and contributed generously to its support. Mr. Brubaker is a remarkably well preserved man for though he has now passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey he possesses the strength and vigor of many a man in his prime and in spirit and interest seems yet in middle life. He has never felt, as so many do, that with advancing years he should withdraw from the activities and interests of the present and concentrate his thoughts upon memories of the past but is alive to all of the vital questions of the day, keeping informed on all of the issues which affect local and national progress. His memory, however, forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present and few men of this part of the county are more thoroughly informed concerning its history or the events which have shaped its annals. He has himself borne a most active part in the transformation of the county as it has emerged from the conditions of pioneer life and taken on all of the evidences of a modern and progressive civilization. No man of the community is more honored and respected than George W. Brubaker and no man more fully deserves the confidence and good will thus extended.

Although one of the younger members of the medical profession in Ashland, his age does not seem a bar to his progress, for since opening his office here Dr. Riebel has become well known as a physician and surgeon, with a large and growing practice. He is one of Ohio 's native sons, his birth having occurred in Columbus, March 9, 1881. His parents were Augustus and Margaret (Seeger) Riebel, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father came to the United States with his parents when about fourteen or sixteen years of age, the family home being established upon a farm in Franklin county. Margaret Seeger came to the United States with two sisters and two brothers when she was fourteen years of age, her parents having died in Germany. The Seegers also made their way to Columbus and there the marriage of Augustus Riebel and Margaret Seeger was celebrated. Turning his attention to farming, he followed that pursuit in Franklin county and was closely associated with agricultural interests up to the time of his death, which occurred June 6, 1892. While he never sought to figure prominently in public life, he was a man of genuine personal worth, straightforward and reliable in all dealings and enjoyed to the

Dr. Riebel spent his youthful days in his parents' home and the district schools afforded him his early educational privileges, while later he attended high school at Jerome, Ohio, and was graduated therefrom with the class of 1901. He then attended two terms at the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, and in 1902 he began the reading of medicine under the preceptorship of his brother, Dr. J. A. Riebel, of Columbus. In order to thoroughly equip himself for his chosen calling, in the fall of 1902 he entered the Ohio Medical University of Columbus and was graduated therefrom as a member of the class of 1906. He then took the examination for an interneship in the Protestant Hospital at Columbus and was successful in winning the appointment, serving as interne for one year, during which time he gained much valuable knowledge from the broad and varied experience of hospital practice. He also took a post-graduate course in general work at the New Pork Post-Graduate Hospital College.

Thus well qualified for the general practice of medicine, Dr. Riebel came to Ashland in May, 1907. In the meantime, however, during the summer of 1905, he attended the Ohio Northern University, where he completed his scientific course. After coming to Ashland he opened his office in this city and had been here but a short time when he was accorded an enviable patronage. His ability is marked and his devotion to the interests of his patients unquestioned. He is very careful in the diagnosis of his cases and is making continued advancement in his chosen field of labor. He belongs to the Ashland County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association and thus keeps in touch with the onward march of the profession.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Dr. Riebel was married September 25, 1907, to Miss Helen Scott, of Granville, Ohio, and they are well known in the social circles of the city. They hold membership in the Presbyterian church and Dr. Riebel gives his political allegiance? to the republican party where state and national issues are involved but at local elections casts an independent ballot. He has never sought nor desired office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his profession, in which he is meeting with signal success.

Thomas R. Shinn

From an early period in the development of business activity in Ashland, Thomas R. Shinn has been connected with its mercantile interests, having long figured as one of its foremost business men. He is at the head of the firm of Shinn, Stockwell & Company, conducting an extensive business as dealers- in dry goods. In matters of trade his judgment is sound and reliable, his sagacity keen and along well defined lines of labor he has won merited success.

Mr. Shinn was bom in Mount Washington, Hamilton county, Ohio, October 31, 1845, and is a son of Job R. and Maria (Miller) Shinn, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of the state of New York. They came to Ohio prior to their marriage, which was celebrated in Salem, after which they located on Walnut Hills in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the father engaged in farming, with which pursuit he was identified during his active life. He died in Mount Washington in 1872 when seventy-two years of age. After his death the mother removed to Marion, Ohio, where she passed away in 1887 at the age of seventynine years.

Thomas R. Shinn was educated at the Mount Washington Academy, from which he was graduated with the class of 1863. Almost immediately afterward he joined the army, enlisting on the 13th of May of that year as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He thus served until honorably discharged December 15, 1864, with the rank of first sergeant of his company. While at the front he was with, the eastern army and took part in the battles of the Wilderness, Oak Harbor, White House Landing and Petersburg, together with a number of lesser engagements. He proved a loyel defender of the old flag and the cause it represented and after receiving his discharge he returned to Delaware and resumed his interrupted education by entering the Ohio Wesleyan University. There he was graduated with the class of 1866 on the completion of a scientific course.

For some time after completing his studies Mr. Shinn remained in Delaware as a salesman in the mercantile establishment of S. B. and J. J. Sherr, dry-goods merchants. For four years he remained with that firm and there laid the foundation for his future successful career in the thorough business training which he there received.

While a resident of Delaware, Mr. Shinn was married in 1869 to Miss Mary Bieber and in 1871 he returned to Marion county, Ohio, establishing himself in the dry-goods business in the town of Agosta. While living there his wife died and on the 24th of February, 1879, he was again united in marriage, his second union being with Miss Emma Stockwell. He continued in Agosta until 1886, when he disposed of his interests there, came to Ashland and purchased the Central Shoe Store. Subsequently he purchased the dry-goods stock of J. J. Shoemaker, after which he consolidated the two stores and in 1888 removed the business to its present location at the corner of Main and Church streets, where he conducted the enterprise under his own name until 1906. In that year he admitted his son-in-law, John M. Stockwell, and his son, T. E. Shinn, to a partnership under the firm style of Shinn, Stockwell & Company. For years past he has been one of the foremost business men of Ashland, conducting his store along progressive, modern lines and through his straightforward dealing and enterprising spirit securing a liberal share of the public patronage. Aside from his interests in that connection Mr. Shinn is also the president of the Ashland Steel Range Company, which he aided in organizing and at that time was chosen its chief executive officer. Aside from his individual interests he has contributed to the welfare of the city through his membership with the Ashland Board of Trade. He has been a member of its board of directors since its organization and has been foremost in securing new industries for the city. The work of this organization, combined with that of other progressive business men, has been so effective that within the past eight years the population of Ashland has doubled.

Unto Mr. Shinn and his first wife there were horn two children : Ada, now deceased; and Myrtle, the wife of John M. Stockwell, who is now her father's partner in business and by whom she has one son, Harold. Of the second marriage there were two daughters and three sons. Eva is the wife of H. B. Gates, superintendent for the Pittsburg Mining Company at Joplin, Missouri, and they have two children, Dorothy and William. Rea is at home. T. Ellsworth, who is associated with his father in business, married Louise Carter, of Ashland, and they have one child, Jane Louise. Carl M., residing in Ashland, wedded Miss Marcia McClelland, a daughter of Dr. W. M. McClelland, of Ashland. Guy Blaine, the youngest of the family, is deceased.