Ashland City (part 18 of 57)

Mr. Shinn is in thorough sympathy with various movements which have been contributory factors to the growth and progress of the city and is interested in all those things which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. He belongs to Andrews Post, No. 132, G. A. R. and in 1899, at Youngstown, Ohio, was elected commander of the state department. He belongs to the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and in politics is an ardent republican, who has done effective work for the party. For two years he served as a member of the republican state central committee and was its secretary. For fifty-two years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and has served on its board of trustees since coming to Ashland, acting as its president at this time. The principles which have governed his life and shaped his conduct are such as ever awaken and inspire confidence and regard and he stands today as a man among men, honored and respected by all who know him.

Dr. William F. Emery, who in all of his professional relations has been actuated by a sincere and earnest desire to be of real benefit to his fellowmen, has come to be recognized in Ashland as a physician and surgeon well worthy an extensive patronage. He started upon the journey of life at Rowsburg, this county, September 22, 1872, his parents being Zachariah and Margaret (Weikal) Emery. The father, a native of Ashland county, was left an orphan in early childhood and went to the home of an aunt, by whom he was reared. After attaining his majority he wedded Margaret Weikal, who was a native of Pennsylvania and when a young lady came to Ashland county with her parents, who located on what was known as the Rowe farm near Rowsburg. The maternal grandfather, William Weikal, became very well-to-do there and owned extensive tracts of land, his holdings making him one of the most prosperous residents of the community. Late in life he took up his abode in the town of Rowsburg, where he resided until his death. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Zachariah Emery they took up their abode on a farm near Rowsburg, where they resided until their son, Dr. Emery, was in his sixteenth year. They then removed into the village, where the father has since lived retired. For many years he was actively engaged in business pursuits and through his well directed enterprise and diligence he accumulated the competence that enabled him to put aside active business cares in his later years. In 1895 and 1896 he was first assistant sergeant at arms in the state capitol. In politics he is an has been an officer in the church and has always been loyal to its teachings and generous in its support. While he now lives in the village, he still owns the farm and derives from it a good rental.

Dr. Emery was reared at home to his seventeenth year and then started out to make his own way in the world. He has largely educated himself and after attending the district schools he entered the Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio, where he pursued a normal course. Still unsatisfied with the educational opportunities that he had thus far been able to enjoy, he entered Wittenberg College at Springfield, Ohio, where he spent two years as a student, during which time he determined to take up the study of medicine and make its practice his life work. Therefore, in the fall of 1893, he entered the Western Reserve Medical College at Cleveland, Ohio, and on the completion of a four years' course he was graduated with the class of 1897.

Having now qualified for the practice of medicine and surgery, Dr. Emery located in the village of McZena in the southern part of Ashland county, where he practiced for three years and on the 6th of March, 1900, he removed to Ashland, where he has since continued. Although yet a young man, he has built up an extensive practice and is ranked among Ashland's prominent physicians, his wide knowledge well qualifying him to cope with the intricate and complex problems that continually confront the physician. Furthermore he keeps in touch with the profession through his membership in the Ashland County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, the American Medical Association and the Union Medical Society of the sixth consular district.

In 1897 Dr. Emery was married to Miss Artie A. Myers, a daughter of Daniel Myers, who lived in Perry township near Rowsburg. Dr. and Mrs. Emery became parents of two children but only one is living, George Myers. The Doctor holds membership in the English Lutheran church and in fraternal lines is connected with Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F., Excelsior Camp, No. 3287, M. W. A., and Ashland Tent, No. 515, K. 0. T. M. In his relations outside of professional lines he is found to be a genial courteous gentleman, interested in those things which are essential to the welfare and progress of the community, while in his chosen life work he is giving his patients the benefit of conscientious service and of careful preliminary training.

Joseph A. Shearer

Joseph A. Shearer, one of Ashland's prominent citizens, is a man whose business ability and administrative qualities have enabled him to attain considerable distinction in its political circles, being at present county clerk of Ashland county. To this position he was elected by a large majority, indicating his popularity and also the fact that he has a host of friends throughout the county. His birth occurred in Montgomery township, this county, September 30, 1877, a son of John and Henrietta (Hammett) Shearer. His father was bom in the same township May 14, 1839, and there he was reared and remained until some time during the early '50s when, becoming inspired by the news of fortunemaking in the gold fields of California, he went to that state, making the trip by way of Cape Horn. Remaining there for about two years, at the expiration of that time he returned to this county, where he has since been residing, identified with merchandising and farming interests. He is now living on an excellent farm in Montgomery township, near Ashland, the property being his own. Politically he is a democrat, at all times upholding the policies advocated in the party's platform, while religiously he is a stanch supporter of that denomination of Christians known as the Disciples of Christ. The grandparents of the subject of this review on both sides of the house were among the early settlers of this county, his paternal grandfather, William Shearer, having come here from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, some time during the '30s, while his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Eliza (Mallott) Hammett, who emigrated from Pennsylvania to Richland county, also settled here about that time. His mother, a native of Richland county, was born in the year 1857 or 1858.

Under the parental roof Joseph A. Shearer was reared, acquiring his education in the public schools, and after completing his studies, being then about nineteen years of age, he at once began his career as a school teacher and for fifteen terms, covering a period of about nine years, he followed that vocation. He followed the profession with a considerable degree of distinction until the fall of 1905, when on account of his excellent judgment and administrative ability he was nominated on the democratic ticket for the office of county clerk, to which office he was elected by a large majority and assumed his duties in August. 1906. In November. 1908, he was reelected and has since been transacting the affairs of that responsible official position. Mr. Shearer is affiliated with a number of fraternal organizations and is a member of Montgomery Lodge. No. 355, K..P., and Vermillion Camp. No. 7607, M. W .A., of Hayesville. He is a man whose excellent demeanor together with his abilities have won him the respect and confidence of all with whom he has come into contact, and the capable service which he has rendered the county in the position in which he is now officiating has won him wide popularity and gained him the reputation of being one of Ashland's most useful and beneficial citizens.

L. B. Ash. M. D.

In a profession where advancement depends entirely upon individual merit, Dr. L. B. Ash lias made for himself an enviable name and place, being now accounted one of the successful physicians and surgeons of Ashland. His birth occurred in Wayne county. Ohio, September 22. 1855, his parents being Josiah and Nancy (Beidler) Ash. both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. They removed to Wayne county with their respective parents and after attaining adult age were married there. Josiah Ash then turned his attention to general farming, with which he was identfied during his active life. His last days were spent in Goshen, Indiana, where he died in 1898, at the age of eighty-three years while visiting his son, Dr. E. E. Ash, of that place. t In politics he was an ardent democrat and was recognized as one of the local leaders of the party, doing all in his power to promote its growth and secure the adoption of its principles. For years he served on the election board in his district and for a considerable time he was township trustee and for a number of years a member of the board of education. He was always interested in educational progress and was, moreover, an active worker in the Lutheran church, thus giving his aid and influence to those movements which tend to uplift and benefit humanity. His wife died on the old home farm in Wajme county in 1885, when sixty-seven years of age. She, too, was a consistent member of the Lutheran church. In the family of this worthy couple were twTelve children, three of whom became physicians. Six of the number yet survive, namely: Martha, the wife of Andrew Mumaw, of Mount Eaton, Ohio; Samantha, the wife of Wade Naftzger, of Wooster, this state; Joseph, a miller of Defiance, Ohio; Minda, the wife of E. J. Worst, of Ashland; L. B., of this review; E. E., a practicing physician of Goshen, Indiana. Dr. W. N. Ash passed away in Mount Eaton.

While spending his youthful days under the parental roof, Dr. L. B. Ash acquired his primary education in Smithville (Ohio) public and high schools. At seventeen years of age he began his career as a teacher and for twelve terms was identified with educational work, doing good service for the schools with which he was connected. In 1879, he went to Belmore, Ohio, where he engaged in the drug business and while following that pursuit he began reading medicine with Dr. Pooley, of Toledo, Ohio, as his preceptor. In the fall of 1884 he entered Toledo Medical College and completed his course by graduation in the class of 1887. In the meantime he disposed of his drug business prior to entering upon his collegiate course, and immediately following his graduation he came to Ashland, where he began the practice of his chosen profession, which he has followed continuously and successfully since. He is a skilled practitioner and has built up an extensive practice, being today ranked among Ashland's most prominent physicians. Anything that tends to bring to man an understanding of the complex principles which underlie the work of the medical fraternity is of interest to him and he has carried his studies and investigations far into the realms of scientific knowledge. He keeps in touch with the continuous advance of the profession through his membership in the Ashland Medical Society, the Sixth District Medical Association, which comprises eleven counties, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association.

In 1878, Dr. Ash was married to Miss Sarah A. Rumbaugh of Wooster, Ohio, and they have one son, Ray C., who is now practicing medicine in partnership with his father. After pursuing a three years' course in the Ohio State University he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Chicago and was there graduated in 1904. In the fall of that year he married Miss Gail Arnold of Ashland, and they have one child, Wilma. Dr. Ray C. Ash is also a member of the different medical societies, to which his father belongs and is one of the popular young physicians of this section.

Aside from professional relations Dr. L. B. Ash is connected with Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A, M., and has likewise taken the degrees of the chapter.

He is also a member of Montgomery Lodge, No. 355, K. P., and of the Uniformed Rank, and for the past twelve years has been surgeon of the Eighth Regiment. He is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America and is a member of the Lutheran church, while his political allegiance is given to the democracy. He never seeks nor desires office, however, although he keeps well informed on the political questions and issues of the day as every true American citizen should do. His time and attention are largely given to his professional duties, which he discharges with a sense of conscientious obligation and with marked ability that has gained him prominence in his chosen calling.

Allen B. Richards

Allen B. Richards was for two decades identified with the educational interests of Ashland county and various other sections of the state but since 1898 he has given his time and attention to agricultural pursuits, making his home on a well improved farm of one hundred and ten acres, located in Troy township. He was born in Sullivan township, Ashland county, December 6, 1860, and in the paternal line is of German extraction, while in the maternal line he comes of Scotch ancestry. His paternal grandfather, John Richards, was a very prominent farmer and influential citizen of this section of the state and lived to be eighty-eight years of age. His son, Samuel W. Richards, the father of our subject, was also a prominent farmer and dairyman, owning an extensive tract of land. He was a man of strong character and influence in the community and took an active part in all pubilc affairs. He wedded Miss Mariah McMillin, who was a native of Richland county.

Allen B. Richards spent the period of his boyhood and youth on the home farm in Ashland county, early being trained to the duties of the farm and the dairy. His early education, acquired in the district schools, was supplemented by study at Ashland, Ada and Oberlin Colleges, where he qualified for teaching. In 1878 he entered the profession and was thus engaged until 1898, or for a period of twenty years, five years of this time being spent as a teacher in the Rochester (Ohio) schools and three years in the Nova high school, while the remainder of the time was spent in the district schools of Ashland and Lorain counties. He was progressive in his methods of instruction and became a very successful as well as popular instructor.

As above stated, Mr. Richards retired from educational work in 1898, since which time he has devoted his energies to general farming and stock-raising on a farm of one hundred and ten acres in Troy township, which he owns. He is also a breeder of Jersey cattle and each branch of his business is proving a profitable source of revenue to him. In addition to Jiis home farm, which is well improved, he also owns sixty acres in Lorain county. Aside from his business interests, Mr. Richards also finds time to devote to matters of a public nature. He is a stockholder in the Nova Banking Company, is chairman of the Nova Farmers Institute, one of the most progressive institutes in the state, while as a member of the Nova board of education he takes a deep and active interest in order that his own and other children may receive an education suited to

Mr. Richards was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Simmons, on the 6th of May, 1888. Her father, Jesse Simmons, came with his parents to this state from Maryland, the family home being established in Tuscarawas county, where they lived for a time but in 1834 removed to Troy township, Ashland county, and settled on the farm which is today owned by our subject. Mr. Simmons wedded Miss Effie Andrews and was engaged in farming throughout his entire life. He was a man of wide influence, prominent in public affairs, so that when death claimed him in May, 1900, the community lost one of its most highly esteemed citizens. The mother still survives. The daughter, Mrs. Richards, was provided with excellent educational advantages, her early education, acquired in the public schools, being supplemented by study in Savannah Academy. She engaged in teaching prior to her marriage. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Richards has been blessed with five children, Wade E., Leland D., Ella H., Esther A., and Theodore W.

The political views of Mr. Richards --accord with the principles of the republican party and in its work he is very active, frequently serving as a delegate to party conventions. For several years he has served as justice of the peace. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is serving as a trustee and as class leader. For a long period he acted as superintendent of the Sunday school and is now assistant superintendent and a teacher in the school, while Mrs. Richards is also active in various departments of church and Sunday school work. An atmosphere of education and refinement predominates in their hospitable home and their children are provided with good books. Mr. Richards is progressive in his ideas regarding public improvements, especially good roads and good schools, and all measures that are calculated to benefit his home locality.

The man who recognizes opportunity and then bends every energy toward the accomplishment of his purpose wins success. There is no secret method by which prosperity is attained. Its basis is always effort - unrelaxing effort - a statement which finds verification in the life record of F. R. Marks and thousands of other successful men. He is today a prominent factor in commercial circles in Ashland, where he has long been known as a dealer in stoves and tinware. He forms his plans readily, is determined in their execution and as the years pass so utilizes his advantages that he has come to be known as one of the leading and representative citizens here. His birth occurred in Monroe township, Richland county, Ohio, May 5, 1844, his parents being Abraham and Sarah (Young) Marks. The father was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, born in 1802, and the mother's birth occurred in Columbiana county, Ohio, in 1808. Abraham Marks lost his parents when he was an infant and he was reared by his guardian, Mr. Mykrantz, who became one of the early settlers of Ashland county. Thus Mr. Marks spent his youthful days here and after arriving at years of maturity he wedded Sarah Young, who had come to Ashland county, then Richland county, with her parents in 1814. Following his marriage Abraham Marks entered eighty acres of government land in Monroe township, Richland county, and began the development of a new farm, which he continued to cultivate and improve until his death in February, 1865. His political views accorded with the principles of the democracy and he therefore gave to the party his stalwart support. His religious faith was that of the Lutheran church and he was a man whom to know was to respect and honor. His widow survived him for more than forty years and passed away in March, 1905, in her ninety-seventh year.

F. R. Marks spent his youthful days On the home farm and acquired his education in the public schools. His father was one of the founders and active spirits in promoting the Lutheran school known as Wittenberg College at Springfield, Ohio, and F. R. Marks held a scholarship for that college but the breaking out of the Civil war changed the course of his life. Educational interests were put to one side and with patriotic ardor he offered his services to his country enlisting as a member of Company B, One Hunderd and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Before the regiment was fully organized he was transferred to Company A of McLaughlin's Squadron of Cavalry and was made bugler of his command. He served in that connection for three years. Having enlisted August 1, 1862, he was mustered out after the close of the war June 23, 1865, at Concord, North Carolina. He participated in all of the engagements in which McLaughlin's Squadron took part and was with Sherman's army on the celebrated march to the sea. Through almost three years he participated in some of the most strenuous campaigns of the war but was never in the hospital during that time and whenever roll was called responded to his name, being ready for duty.

When hostilities had ceased and the country no longer needed his aid Mr. Marks took up the pursuits of civil life. He worked from July, 1865, until February, 1866, on the construction of a reservoir for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at Lucas, Ohio, and at the latter date came to Ashland, where he apprenticed himself to the tinner's trade. On the expiration of his term of indenture lie returned to Lucas, where he conducted a tin shop On his own account for several years or until March, 1871, when he removed to Boydton, Virginia. There he conducted business for five years and in 1876 he went to Washington. D. C., where he worked as a journeyman for two years. In 1878 he arrived in Ashland and for a year thereafter worked at his trade as a journeyman in this city. In the meantime he had carefully saved his earnings and on the expiration of that period he engaged in business on his own account, forming a partnership with A. J. Burns, which continued for three years. This connection was then terminated by mutual consent and Mr. Marks bought an interest in the firm of Pille & Knotli, the firm style being then changed to Pille, Knoth & Marks. In 1885, however, Mr. Marks withdrew and purchased the stock of Hugh Burns at sheriff sale. He then founded his present successful business and in the intervening twenty-four years he has built up an extensive trade in stoves and tinware. He is the only exclusive stove dealer in Ashland and in connection with the sale of the goods which he handles he does slate metal and composition roofing and was the first to introduce slate roofing into Ashland county. He is the patentee and manufacturer of a slate trimming machine which has received universal endorsement and is today not only widely used among the slate roofers of this country but also of foreign countries. He is today ranked among Ashland's foremost business men and is a stockholder in and vice president and director of the Ashland Steel Range Company.

Mr. Marks has been married four times. On. the 5th of September, 1868, he wedded Miss Caroline Markley, of Ashland, and unto them were born four children but only one is now living, Blanche, the wife of Reginald Warren of Ashland. Mrs. Marks died in 1878 and on the 31st of August, 1880, Mr. Marks wedded Mrs. Nelson Maize, who in her maidenhood was Miss Susan De Shong, of Ashland. Following her demise Mr. Marks was married January 8, 1898, to Miss Miranda Myers, of Ashland, who died April 22, 1906. On the 30th of August, 1908, he wedded Mrs. Mary E. Aleshire, formerly a Miss McClung, of Chambersburg, Pike county, Illinois, who at the time of their marriage was editor and publisher of the Gibsonburg Derrick.

Mr. Marks is a member of the Ashland Board of Trade and is interested in all the measures instituted by that organization for the upbuilding and progress of the city. He is also connected with the Business Men's Club and is a member of Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., Mohican Lodge, No. 81, I. 0. O. F., and Andrews Post, No. 132, G. A. R., of which he is a past commander. His views on the temperance question led him to give his political support to the prohibition party and he is an official member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He has long been honored as one of the leading business men and prominent citizens of Ashland. In manner he is ever genial and courteous and though his time is largely occupied by the details of important business interests, he always finds time and opportunity to devote to those of his friends whose calls are purely of a social character. He is a thorough exemplification of the typical American business man and gentleman.

George W. Millar

George W. Millar, known as one of the prominent and successful farmers, stockraisers and dairymen of Orange township, is the son of Thomas and Rachel (Wangner) Millar. His father who was a soldier of the war of 1812, was born in the north of Ireland and came to this country when fourteen years of age. In Baltimore, Maryland, in 1817, he wedded Rachel Wangner, a native of York county Pennsylvania, and in 1825 they became residents of Washington county, that state, where they resided until 1830, when they removed westward to Richland county, Ohio, taking up their abode on a farm, where one of their sons now resides. With characteristic energy and determination Thomas Millar began the work of clearing away the forest and preparing the fields for cultivation. In due course of time he had placed his land under the plow and annually gathered rich harvests as a reward for his labors. Upon that farm he raised his family of eleven children, nine of whom reached years of maturity, namely : Margaret; Mary; Thomas J. ; Jacob; Sarah J. ; Sophie; John, who died while serving in the army in the Civil war ; Christina ; Adeline ; George W. ; and Denton 0. The last named was killed in the battle of Vicksburg. Of this family, Thomas, the eldest son, became a large landowner, having at one time fourteen hundred acres of productive and valuable land. The father was a shoemaker by trade and after coming to Ohio he worked at his trade in exchange for farm labor, and thus his fields were cleared.

George W. Millar, whose name introduces this review, was born on the old homestead in Richland county, Ohio, December 20, 1838, and was there reared amid the surroundings of rural life. When but a boy in years he began work in the fields and has since been connected with general agricultural pursuits. He was educated in the district schools and in Savannah Academy and for two terms he engaged in teaching school. He is now the only surviving member of his father's family and has himself reached the age of seventy years, being throughout this time a resident of Ohio, so that he has witnessed much of the growth and progress of the state.

On the 18th of January, 1863, Mr. Millar was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Porter, a daughter of Nathaniel and Clarissa (Knealand) Porter. Her father was one of thirteen sons who came fom Ireland. Her mother was a native of Massachusetts and they were married in that state, subsequently removing westward to Ohio, about 1823, at which time they took up their abode at Elyria. The father was the first brick maker in Sullivan, Ohio, and manufactured most of the bricks used in the construction of all the buildings between Cleveland, Sandusky and Sullivan. He died on the 25th day of March, 1877, having long survived his wife, who passed away December 1, 1854. They were the parents of nine children: Hannah, James, Clarissa, Samuel, Edward, Caroline, Alexander, and Juliette and Julian twins. Of this family six are now living.

Following his marriage Mr. Millar engaged in farming and threshing. When seventeen years of age he went west to Minnesota, where he remained for four years and was employed during that period at farm labor and in threshing, taking the first thresher from Ohio into that state. He then returned to stay with his mother on a farm and has continued on the old home place since his marriage. He has not only tilled the soil and cultivated his crops but was also for a time engaged in the lake freight business, carrying grain from Chicago to Buffalo and also transporting other kinds of freight, with headquarters at Lorain. He sold out in that business in 1889, and for four years thereafter engaged in farming and dairying, being quite successful in those departments of activity. In fact lie has long been connected with the dairy business and makes a specialty of handling thoroughbred Holstein cattle. He carries on general farming in the cultivation of his fields and is also well known as a stockraiser, buying and selling on quite a large scale. For a time he also handled sheep extensively. He now has two hundred and forty acres of land, which is well improved and highly cultivated. He has the greatest admiration for fine stock and is a member of the IIolstein-Fresian Cattle Association of America.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Millar have been born three children, a daughter and two sons; Minnie, now the wife of James 0. Garver; Denton J., an engineer on the Sea Board Railroad; and John, at home. Mr. Millar is an advocate of good roads and all public improvements manifesting at all times a progressive spirit that looks to the interests of the community at large as well as to the personal success. In the early days he greatly delighted in hunting and the forests of Ohio afforded excellent opportunities for indulging in that sport, but with the settlement of the state the game supply was exhausted. He can well remember when many districts were wild and unimproved, but rejoices in what has been accomplished through the efforts of civilization whereby uncultivated lands have been transformed into rich and fertile fields, yielding abundant harvests for the maintenance of those who improve them.

Dr. Joseph E. Crowell is now living retired, but for some years prior to 1903, engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Ashland and in all professional and non-professional relations he has proved himself a worthy and progressive citizen here, his influence ever being found on the side of progress and improvement. His birth occurred in the town of Lisbon, Columbiana county, Ohio, May 15, 1850. His parents, George E. and Mary A. (Sampsell) Crowell, were natives of Penns3Tlvania and Columbiana county, Ohio respectively, and were married in Lisbon, Ohio, where George E. Crowell engaged in contracting for a number of years. In 1856 he removed to Ashland, where he had erected the Sampsell Hotel in 1850. He continued a resident of this city up to the time of his demise and was prominently associated with its improvement through building operations. His aid and influence could always be counted upon to further progressive measures and although he was never an office seeker, he was a stalwart advocate of the principles of the democracy. He likewise held membership in the Lutheran church and was loyal to its teachings. In the family were six children: Isabella, the wife of David Risser, of Onargo, Illinois; Celia, the wife of Dr. S. W. McClain, of Loudonville, Ohio; Thornton, a practicing physician of Nankin, this county ; David and Edgar, both of whom were physicians but are now deceased; and Joseph E. Of this family the four .sons became members of the medical profession, while one of the daughters married a physician.

Dr. Crowell spent his youthful days in the home of his parents and acquired his education in the public schools of Ashland, passing through consecutive grades until he became a high school student. In 1870, he began reading medicine under the direction of his brother Edgar, who at that time was located at Greeneastle, Pennsylvania. While preparing for the profession Dr. Joseph E. CroAvell became engaged in the manufacture of agricultural implements and was identified with that business for about twenty years. Not until 1890, did he enter medical college, at which time he became a student in the medical department of the Wooster University at Cleveland, from which he was graduated in the class of 1893. Following his graduation he located at Burbank, Wayne county, Ohio, where he remained for only eighteen months, when he came to Ashland, where he continued in the active practice of the profession for nine years. In 1903, he put aside the duties of that calling and has since lived a retired life.

In 1869, Dr. Crowell was married to Miss Sarah Hastings, a daughter of Levi and Margaret (Montgomery) Hastings, of Columbiana county, Ohio. Unto this marriage has been born a son, George Edgar, who is a fine musician, being an expert performer on the violin and piano. He acquired his musical education in Hagerstown, Maryland, where he attended Keymar College' for five years. He afterward studied under private instructors in Cleveland for two years and then went to Germany, where he attended the King Royal Conservatory of Bavaria, in the city of Wurzburg, for three years. While there he married Miss Gretchen Jacob, by whom he has four children : George Edgar, Lore, Naomi and Frances. After finishing his education George E. Crowell returned home and for some time engaged in teaching violin in the Wooster University but finding that too confining, he resigned his position to take up private teaching. Later, however, he again took up school work, teaching the violin and piano in the schools of Medina, Wellington, New London, Lodi and Olmsted Falls. He is said by musical critics to be the best violinist in the state of Ohio. His work is certainly most creditable and his ability has won him well merited honors. He makes his home in Ashland.

In his political views Dr. Crowell has always been a democrat but has never been an office seeker. He belongs to the Presbyterian church and its teachings have largely been the guide of his life. He has been active and honorable in every relation in which he has been found and in industrial as well as professional circles made steady progress, his well directed energy carrying him into important relations with the public.

Arthur J. Sprinkle

Arthur J. Sprinkle, one of the younger men of Ashland county who are devoting their energies to the soil, out of which they are molding their fortunes, was born in Troy township, April 17, 1872, and here since his birth he has, with eminent success, been following general farming and stock-raising. He is a son of John and Catherine (Spousler) Sprinkle, his father, a native of this county, while his mother was born in Columbiana county, the former having been one of the most successful and widely known agriculturalists and stockraisers of this region.

-On his father's farm Arthur J. Sprinkle was reared, participating in the experiences common to a country lad, agricultural duties commanding his attention during his boyhood days, the district schools affording him his educational advantages, and after completing his education he settled down to a life of husbandry which he has since been following upon modern principles, being one of the most progressive agriculturists in the township. His entire life with the exception of a year in Orange township and one in Sullivan township, has been spent on this farm and since he was sixteen years of age he has been actively engaged in tilling the soil and raising stock. As a stock man he has attained quite a reputation, devoting his energies especially to breeding Percheron and German coach horses, handling only thoroughbreds in both breeds, and the experience which he acquired under the supervision of his father has enabled him to become the equal of any in the county in this department of his business. He does not handle any under-grade animals but makes it a point to keep only the very best for breeding purposes and his stables contain specimens of horses which cannot be paralleled anywhere in the county and in every particular he merits the reputation he holds as an authority on the several points requisite to commend this class of stock.

On his farm he raises various grains, being quite successful in their production but he is particularly known as a horseman and perhaps no man in this vicinity is better able than he to judge their breeding qualities. His farm contains two hundred and sixty acres, his entire tract of land being in excellent condition and well improved and its system of tile drainage, being . one of the best, his place, both for the production of general crops and stock raising, constitutes one of the finest farms in the vicinity.

On December 4, 1892, Mr. Sprinkle wedded Nora Smith, a daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Richards) Smith, and they have five children: Nellie L., Stanley A., Cobah D., Glenn A., and Forest C. Politically Mr. Sprinkle has allied himself with the democratic p&rty, being a firm believer in the policies it advocates, and since casting his first vote he has always been loyal to its. candidates. Local affairs have also commanded his attention. He has served as constable, at present is a trustee and a member of the school board, and he has also performed the duties of road supervisor. He is an enterprising and publicspirited citizen, a man with strong convictions and with the courage to express and maintain them and, being upright in all his transactions and striving to lead a life above reproach, he may well be numbered among the valued and substantial men of the community.

Rev. Alexander Scott at the age of eighty-seven years is living retired in Savannah. He was for more than six decades actively associated with the ministry of the Presbyterian church, using his energies, his talents and his influence for the promotion of the cause of Christianity among men that they might be uplifted and bear witness to the truth. A log cabin near Richmond, in Jefferson county, Ohio, was the birthplace of the Rey. Alexander Scott, and his natal day was February 14, 1822. He traces his ancestry back to Hugh Scott, who came from Ireland about two hundred years ago. The line comes on down through Abraham, Josiah and Alexander to John Scott, the father of Rev. Alexander Scott. His mother bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Skelly. Her father was of Irish birth, having come from the Emerald isle when a boy.

Josiah Scott established his home in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1773, removing to that locality from York, Pennsylvania. He was among the earliest settlers in what was then Catfish but is now Washington, Pennsylvania, where he spent his remaining days and reared a large family, including Alexander Scott, who was the eldest. The latter's brother, James Scott, was the founder of the Presbyterian church in Mount Yernon and in Knox county, Ohio, and was a distinguished representative of the ministry. Another brother, Abraham Scott, settled in Jefferson county, Ohio, and both were among the pioneers in establishing the Presbyterian church in this state. Mrs. Violet Colmey, the eldest daughter of Alexander Scott, son of Josiah, had a large family that included four sons who entered the ministry. Of these William, Robert and David all became prominent as representatives of the Presbyterian clergy. Another distinguished representative of the family was Judge Josiah Scott, who was on the supreme bench of Ohio for seventeen years. He was a brother of John Scott.

It was in the year 1818 that John Scott became a resident of Jefferson county, Ohio, founding this branch of the family in the Buckeye state. He was a fuller by trade. His family numbered six children, including his namesake, John Scott, who became a lawyer of Steubenville, Ohio, and served as a soldier in the Mexican war under General Clay. Later he went to Iowa and became prominent in politics of that state. When the Civil war was inaugurated he joined the Union army and served throughout the period of hostilities, holding the rank of colonel at the close of his service. He was a member of both houses of the state legislature and was also for a time lieutenant governor of Iowa. He exerted a widely felt influence in public affairs and left the impress of his individuality upon the legislative history of the state.

Rev. Alexander Scott was educated in the schools of Martinsburg, Ohio, and in Jefferson College, Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated' in 1846, being a classmate there of Judge West and of the Rev. I. N. Shannon. Nature endowed him with strong intellectual force and he used his opportunities to good advantage. Following his graduation he went south and taught in Hampton Sydney College of Virginia, but determining to enter the ministry and give his life to the work of the church he took up the study of theology in the Union Theological College and was licensed to preach in April 1849. Subsequently he returned to Martinsburg, Ohio, and took charge of the academy in which he had previously studied. He also engaged in preaching for two small congregations, making an average ride each Sunday of twenty-five miles and receiving for his services only one hundred and fifty dollars per year. At the end of the first year he accepted the pastorate of the church at Olivesburg and Rome Richland county, Ohio, continuing in charge for four years, after which he came to Savannah in 1854 and for sixteen years filled the pastorate of this church. His labors were a potent element in the moral development of the community and the seeds of truth which he sowed bore rich fruit in later years. In 1856 he founded the academy which has flourished to the present time, proving an influential factor in intellectual progress of this part of the state. In 1868 the synod of Ohio met in Coshocton and it was decided to place a man in the field to look after the weak churches. Rev. Scott was selected as the one best qualified for this important work and devoted his energies thereto for a year. In the spring of 1870 he was offered the pastorate of the church at Kossuth, Iowa, an old and large congregation - the largest in the state - having a membership of three hundred. There he continued for ten years, carefully organizing and promoting the work of the church, while his utterances from the pulpit sank deeply in the hearts of his hearers. He was a forceful, logical and earnest speaker, making strong appeal to the intelligence of his hearers and at the same time impressing all with his ready sympathy. While at Kossuth he became one of the founders of Parsons College, a Presbyterian school at Fairfield, Iowa, and acted as one of its trustees for twelve years. Subsequently he went to Des Moines and engaged in preaching for two years at the South Side church and later was at Dallas Center, Iowa. He organized the church at Grimes, Iowa, spent one year at Russell, and was afterward located at other places in the state, continuing his pastoral work with good success. For a time he was at Bethel, remaining there for four years, and in 1889 he went to Littleton, Colorado, near Denver, where he continued for a year. He afterward accepted the call of the church at Central City and at Black Hawk, situated at an altitude of eight thousand feet. He went there for the benefit of his wife's healtn and continued at that place for three years.

It was in 1894 that the Rev. Mr. Scott returned to Ohio, and for thirteen years was pastor of the church at Congress, on the expiration of which period he retired because of advanced age, in November, 1907. He had devoted more than sixty years to the work of the ministry. Throughout his active connection therewith he continued a close student, reading broadly and thinking deeply, not only upon theological questions advanced by his church, but also upon the great problems which affect life at the present time, so that his deductions were clear and logical and constituted a practical help in the lives of those who came under his ministry. Following his retirement he returned to Savannah where on the 21st of February, 1909, - the eighty-seventh anniversary of his birth - he preached a most interesting and instructive sermon. He has done much evangelical work, gathering inany into the church wherever he has been, hisx words of wisdom and admonition awakening the moral conscience and bearing fruit in the lives of those with whom he was associated. He chose Savannah as the place of his residence because of early attachments here, his love for the city and its people constituting a strong force with him throughout all the intervening years.

Rev. Scott was first married July 18, 1848, at Martinsburg, Ohio, to Miss Sarah Brown, a daughter of Jeremiah and Margaret Brown and a representative of a prominent family of that locality. She died in December, 1850, leaving two children, Virginia and Merritt. The latter died at the age of two years, while the former is now the wife of Augustus A. Polk who is the owner of a fifteen hundred acre ranch near Emporia, Kansas. On the 20th of January, 1852, Rev. Scott was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Anne Katherine Hall, who died April 16, 1854, leaving a little daughter, Emma, now the wife of Joseph Troutman, also owner of an extensive ranch in Lyon county, Kansas. On the 18th of September, 1855, Rev. Scott was again married and on the 12th of September, 1905, he was again called upon to mourn the loss of his wife. In her maidenhood she was Miss Amanda Chidester, a daughter of Samuel Chidester. There were two daughters of this marriage, Clara Belle, now the wife of Professor Behoteguy, of Wooster University; and Alice, who became the wife of the Rev. S. M. Johnson and died August 31, 1887. On the 30th of October, 1907, Rev. Scott married Mrs. Margaret Chambers, the widow of William Chambers, at one time a farmer of this locality. They are now living happily among early friends, Rev. Scott spending the evening of life in quiet retirement, interested in his books as well as in the questions of the day. A man of strong purpose, actuated by the highest Christian ideals, his life has been a potent force for good and merits the encomium, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Samuel H. Grabill

Samuel H. Grabill, who is practically living in retirement in this city, after having spent considerable time in the pursuit of husbandry and also in connection with a number of financial enterprises, is one of the foremost men in this county. He was born in Vermillion township, August 29, 1846, a son of John S. and Nancy (Harper) Grabill. His father, a native of Bavaria, Germany, was born May 4, 1818, was educated there and came to this country about the year 1833 with his parents. After a sea voyage of forty-nine days they landed in Philadelphia shortly after the holidays and, there purchasing wagons, they made the trip by that means to this county. They purchased eighty acres of land in Vermillion township and there lived until they entered into rest. The elder Mr. Grabill, following his marriage, also purchased a farm in that township, upon which he spent his entire life in agricultural pursuits, death terminating his activities February 10, 1887. He owned four hundred and twenty acres of excellent land upon which he engaged in stock feeding and general husbandry and was one of the most successful farmers in this part of the county. In his early days he allied himself with the democratic party but on the formation of the republican party he allied himself with the latter and cast his ballot for its candidates. Local affairs also commanded his attention and during the war period he served as trustee of the township and was well known for his progressiveness relative to instituting and promoting measures for the betterment of the community. A Mennonite, religiously, during his early days, he finally became a member of the Presbyterian church, in the affairs of which he was quite active.

John Harper, father of Nancy Harper, mother of the subject of this review, came to Jefferson county, Ohio, with his father, William Harper, from Fairfax Court House, Virginia, at an early date and upon entering that county heard of the Virginia Military School lands in Ashland county, upon which in 1814 they repaired to this place where each of them entered eighty acres of land in Vermillion township and here both her father and grandfather followed agriculture until they departed this life. Her great-grandfather, William Harper, also came to this state and met death in a runaway while hauling wheat to the market at Milan, this state. Her paternal great-grandmother, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Dove, was one of those honored young women who, apparelled in white vestment, welcomed George Washington to his home at Mount Vernon, at the close of the Revolutionary war. The Harper family was noted for the longevity of its members, the grandfather having lived to a very advanced age while his wife was a centenarian.

On the home farm Samuel H. Grabill was reared and during his boyhood days took advantage of the educational privileges offered him in the district schools, subsequently pursuing a course of study in Vermillion Institute at Hayesville, where he spent four years. At the termination of that period he returned to the home place and was associated with his father in agricultural pursuits until the death of his parents, at which time he fell heir to the property, which he still owns, and upon which he resided until 1903, when he removed to this city where he built one of the finest residences in this part of the county. Mr. Grabill has been eminently successful in his business undertakings and is vice president and a director of the Star Telephone Company ; is general manager of the Ashland Gas & Electric Light Company; and a stockholder in the First National Bank, of this city.

On March 13, 1877, Mr. Grabill wedded Miss Anna Ewing, a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Gregg) Ewing, her father being deceased while her mother, who still survives, resides with a son in Denver, Colorado. To Mr. and Mrs. Grabill have been born four children : Nancy, Howard P. and John G., all of whom reside at home; and Elizabeth, who is united in marriage to John L. Donley, of this city. Politically Mr. Grabill is a republican and in religious faith is a Presbyterian. As to his fraternal relations he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, being a firm believer in the principles set forth by the order, in which he takes an active interest.

George Judson Mitchelson

George Judson Mitchelson, devoting his life to the cause of education, in which connection he is doing a good work in developing and preparing the minds of the younger generation for the responsible and practical duties of life, is now occupying the office of superintendent of the Nankin schools, to which position he has recently been reelected for another term of two years. A native of Ashland county, where almost his entire life has been spent, he was born in Jackson township, April 19, 1874, a son of Benjamin and Rebecca (Matthews) Mitchelson, natives of Wayne and Ashland counties respectively. The former came to Ashland county about the year 1852 and has since devoted his time and attention to agricultural pursuits. His wife, however, passed away February 11, 1908.

Reared on his father's farm, George Judson Mitchelson acquired his early education in the district schools and later attended the Polk high school. He supplemented his preparatory work by one year's work in Ashland College and for three years attended the Wooster University summer school. Thus well equipped, he took up the profession of teaching as a life work and remained for eight years as a teacher in the district schools, while in 1903 he removed to Nankin where he taught for three years, after which he spent one year as a teacher in the Polk high school. In 1906 he was appointed by the board of education to the superintendency of the Nankin schools and has since occupied this position, having recently been reelected by the board for two more years. A man of fine physical, mental and moral strength, Mr. Mitchelson is peculiarly well fitted for a profession that is conceded to be one of the most important to which a man may devote his time and energies, and in his chosen calling he has become recognized as one of the successful and progressive educators of his section of the county. He keeps in touch with the great forward movements along educational lines through his membership in the National Teachers Association, the Ohio Teachers Federation and the Ohio Teachers Reading Circle, while he keeps abreast of the modern ideas and methods being continuously introduced in this line of activity. His ability and true worth, combined with a pleasing personality, make him popular alike with pupils and patrons, and that his work is receiving the endorsement of the community is indicated by the fact that for five years he has been a member of the county board of examiners, while he enjoys the confidence of teachers and all interested in the public-school system. He holds a five years ' high school certificate.

On the 20th of August, 1902, Mr. Mitchelson was married to Miss Mary Young, a daughter of Frank and Ellen (Brillhart) Young, of Stark county, Ohio. The father is a commercial traveler and also engages in agricultural pursuits. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchelson have become the parents of one daughter, Opal Evangeline. A woman of refined and cultivated tastes, Mrs. Mitchelson is an excellent companion for her husband, in whose educational work she deeply sympathizes, while both are active and helpful members in the Methodist Episcopal church, Mr. Mitchelson also taking much interest in the work of the Sunday school. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party, and while not active in political matters nor desirous of public office, he nevertheless keeps well informed upon all questions of vital importance to the community in which he lives and the country at large. Mr. Mitchelson is fond of athletics and finds needed rest and recreation from the daily routine of hard mental work in occasional hunting and fishing trips.

Wilbert Tilton

Wilbert Tilton, a representative agriculturist and well known citizen of Orange township, is a native of Ashland county, having been born in this township on the 3d of September, 1850, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Ramsey) Tilton. The first representatives in America of both the Tilton and Ramsey families came from Ireland and were numbered among the industrious and frugal pioneers whose labors contributed so much toward the early development of this county. They cleared the land of the timber and as time passed developed good farms, becoming prosperous and substantial citizens.

Wilbert Tilton attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education and grew to manhood on his father's farm, early receiving practical training in the best methods of tilling the soil and converting the fields into a productive tract of land, bringing forth rich harvests. Throughout his active business career he has been identified with farming interests, his well directed energy and untiring industry being rewarded by a creditable and gratifying measure of success.

On the 25th of November, 1871, Mr. Tilton was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary E. Countryman, a daughter of Christian and Barbara (Kline) Countryman. Her father came to this county from Somerset county, Pennsylvania, in 1846, became a prosperous agriculturist of Perry township and was a man of prominence and influence in the community. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Tilton have been born two children, namely: Frances L., now the wife of William Kelley; and John C., who assists his father in the conduct of the home place and is widely recognized as a progressive young farmer. He wedded Miss Bessie Lovering, a daughter of Joseph B. and Rilin (Lutz) Lovering.

Mr. Tilton exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the democracy but has never sought office as a reward for party f ealtjr, his official career having been limited to two terms ' service as a member of the township school board. He is a most loyal and public-spirited citizen, ever giving his aid and influence on the side of progress and improvement. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, having been a consistent and devoted member of that church for many years. Both he and his wife have an extensive circle of friends throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, their many excellent traits of heart and mind having won them the kindly regard of all with whom they have come in contact.

Dr. Jacob Fridline, a well known representative of the medical profession in Ashland, having for thirteen years engaged in active practice as a physician and surgeon of this city, was born in Ashland county on the 21st of October, 1863, his parents being Ludwick and Elizabeth (Boffenmyre) Fridline, the former a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and the latter of what is now Ashland county, Ohio, but was then a part of Wayne county. The grandfather, Conrad Fridline, became a resident of that section of Wayne county which is now included in Ashland county in the year 1821. It was largely an unimproved district, giving little evidence of settlement by the white race. He entered one hundred and sixty acres of government land in Perry township, the deed signed by James Monroe, then president of the United States. With characteristic energy he began the development of the fields and continued to make his home upon that farm until his death, when it became the property of his son, Ludwick Fridline, who spent almost his entire life upon that farm. As the years passed he devoted his energies to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate 'and for many years was a leading agriculturist of the community. He died March 1, 1907, in his eighty-sixth year, while his widow still survives in her seventieth year and yet resides on the old Fridline homestead, which is still in the possession of the family, but one deed ever having been recorded and that to indicate the transfer of the property from the government to the grandfather.

It was upon the old homestead farm that Dr. Fridline was reared and he early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. In his youthful days he attended the district schools and in order to acquire a more advanced education he entered Wooster University, where he spent five years as a student. Before taking up his university work, however, he taught school for a time and thus earned the funds necessary to meet his tuition. While a university student he devoted the summer months to cultivating one of the three farms belonging to his father. Soon after the completion of his university course he supplemented his literary education by preparation for the practice of medicine, entering the Western Reserve Medical College at Cleveland, from which he was graduated in the class of 1896. Immediately afterward he located in Ashland and has since been connected with this calling, making steady progress in professional lines. For two years he practiced in partnership with Dr. L. B. Ash and since that time he has been alone, enjoying gratifying success in his chosen field of labor. He is a skillful practitioner and keeps in touch with the advance of the profession, knowing that investigation is continually bringing to light new ideas concerning the causes of disease and the methods of its treatment. #He belongs to the Ashland County Medical Society and enjoys the entire respect of his fellow practitioners because of his close conformity to a high standard of professional ethics.

In 1897 Dr. Fridline was married to Miss Anna Delsher, of Ashland, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Humes) Delsher. They now have one son, G. Delsher. Dr. Fridline is a member of Mohican Lodge, No. 85, of the Independent Order of Odd Follows, and is also a member of Ashland Canton, No. 41. He is likewise connected with the Modern Woodmen of America and is a member of the Knights of Maccabees, being in hearty sympathy with the beneficent principles which underlie these organizations. In politics Dr. Fridline is a republican, interested in the growth and success of the party. He is one of the directors of the Ashland Board of Trade and one of the leaders in every movement pertaining to the good of the community, withholding his support from no measure which he believes will prove of substantial benefit in promoting the interests and upbuilding of his adopted city.

John W. Harper

There are few men of his years - for he has now reached the age of eighty years - who displays such activity and energy as does John W. Harper who in appearance seems twenty years younger. He was born on his present home farm January 24, 1829, his parents being John and Eva (Friend) Harper, who were natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively. When a young man the father accompanied his parents on their removal to Jefferson county,

J. W. Harper, At Thirty-Two Years Of Age

Ohio, whore he was married and in 1816 came with his bride to the farm which has since been the family homestead. Upon that place the worthy couple spent their remaining days, the death of Mr. Harper occurring in 1880, when he had reached the venerable age of ninety years, while his wife passed away in 1873, at the age of seventy-four years. He always followed farming and was not only an interested witness of the changes which were wrought in pioneer times, but also aided in bringing about the development which was an important factor in laying broad and deep the foundation for the present progress and prosperity of the county. His father, William Harper, was born in Virginia, of Scotch parentage. He died on the farm now owned by our subject, April 5, 1832, at the age of sixty-eight years, and his wife passed away August 2, 1859, at the age of ninety-six years.

The family of John and Eva (Friend) Harper numbered ten children; Eliza, who died at the age of eight years; Thomas and William, both deceased; Nancy, the deceased wife of John Grabel; Sarah, the deceased wife of D. E. Webster; Deliah, the deceased wife of David Myers; Mary, who married James Stafford and resides near Finley, Ohio; John W., of this review; Daniel, deceased; and Eva, who passed away in infancy.

John W. Harper can remember a time when there were still many log cabins in this part of the state and when considerable tracts of primeval forest still stood, engaging in the work of civilization and improvement which had recently been begun. He shared with the family in all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life and when still in his boyhood days became a factor in the work of the fields, assisting more and more largely in the tasks which converted the wild land into productive fields, annually bringing forth good crops. Throughout his entire life he has carried on general farming and has always resided on the old homestead with the exception of six or seven years in early manhood. Five years were spent in clerking in Hayesville and two years in the west, but in 1860 he began farming on this place in connection with his brother Daniel and in 1870 he purchased the property comprising two hundred and twenty-six acres on sections 9 and 10, Vermillion township, covering the southwest quarter of section 10 and sixty-six acres on section 9. This place was secured by the father and grandfather as military and school land and they settled upon it on the 17th day of May, 1816. This farm has never been owned by white men, save by John W. Harper and his father and grandfather. The father later purchased the sixty-six acres adjoining on section 9 and a tract of two hundred and twenty acres was cleared and put under cultivation by the father and his son J ohn and the present good buildings were erected by the latter. Everything about the place is kept in good condition, the farm presenting a very attractive appearance.

Mr. Harper has never married and when he returned to the farm to take care of his aged parents he had to employ help to do the house work. When he bought the farm* in 1870 Mjss Amanda Johnston came to work for him. She was at that time a young lady of twenty years and she remained in the family for nearly forty years, dying at the home of Mr. Harper in July, 1907. As the years went by she reared two young girls, Anna Abrams, who became a member of the household at the age of eight years, and Ethel Emminger, when three years old. They are now young ladies and remain upon the farm caring for the household for Mr. Harper. They, as well as Miss Johnston, have always been considered members of the family.

In his political views Mr. Harper has been a life long republican, casting his ballot for John C. Fremont and for each successive candidate since that time. He has never sought nor desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs which he is managing with signal success. He is widely known in the county where almost his entire life has been passed and where his substantial qualities have gained him the respect and regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact.

Jacob O. Jennings

Jacob O. Jennings has the dual distinction of being the oldest living resident of the city of Ashland, and president oi; the First National Bank, one of the most considerable institutions in the state. He was bom in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, January 21, 1819, and has therefore attained the advanced age of ninety years. He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Jennings. His father was in all probability a native of New Jersey, while his mother, who was of Dutch lineage, was born in Pennsylvania, where her people settled at an early date. In 1833, when Jacob O. Jennings was about fourteen years old, his mother, with him and an older half brother, came to Ohio, settling on a farm in what is now Perry township, this county, then a part of Wayne county, thence removing to Wayne county. After a sojourn there of about one year Jacob 0. Jennings left the farm and took a position in a country store at Rowsburg, remaining there for about one year when he accepted employment in a general merchandise establishment at Jeromesville, clerking there for a few months and then removing to Wooster, Ohio, where he performed clerical duties in a general store for about three years. At the expiration of that period he removed to Loudon ville where he acted as clerk from 1838 to 1842, finally returning to Jeromesville, where during the following year he was united in marriage. In 1845 Ashland county was incorporated and Mr. Jennings was appointed clerk of courts in the spring of 1847. There he retained his residence until 1849 or 1850, when with his wife and two children he removed to this city, where he has since lived continuously.

In 1852 when the private bank of Luther, Crall & Company was organized here Mr. Jennings was made cashier, and when the institution was incorporated in 1864 as the First National Bank he continued to perform his duties as cashier of the reorganized establishment, remaining in that position until the withdrawal of its president, Mr. Lucas, from partnership, at which time Mr. Jennings was elected president, in which responsible position he has since been serving. He is a man of excellent business judgment, thoroughly acquainted with all phases of the financial situation, and not only his institution but also the entire community has been benefitted by his labors.

John Harper

On November 7, 1843, Mr. Jennings was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Chappel, of Loudonville, a daughter of Caleb Chappel, who came to these parts at an early date from New England. To this union were born three children, all of whom are deceased, namely: Wayland C., whose demise was caused by a wound received at Hatchers Run, Virginia, during the Civil war; Arthur, who departed this life in his fourth year; and Ware, who passed away in his twenty-first year, while a student at the University of Michigan. Their mother entered into rest in September of the year 1856. In January, 1858, Mr. Jennings wedded Miss Mary E. Sloan, a native of this city, who passed away on May 9, 1885.

In politics Mr. Jennings is a republican, and early in life he took considerable interest in the affairs of his party. While he is interested to the extent of using his vote and influence in behalf of the candidates of his party he has not entertained ambitions to hold public office. He has been very influential in religious circles. He united with the Presbyterian church in January, 1857, but sometime during the '80s he withdrew his membership from that denomination and in company with others formed the Congregational church and was instrumental in having a church edifice constructed. Of the new body he was an active supporter and for many years served as a member of the official board, having also officiated as a deacon. He has an excellent business record, being one of the most prominent financial factors of the community, and his transactions always having been conducted on the basis of honesty he is rightly numbered among Ashland's influential and substantial men.

Among the younger men devoting their talents to the practice of medicine is George W. Jacoby, who is practicing his profession successfully in Savannah, his knowledge of materia medica and his skill in surgery rapidly gaining for him extensive patronage and during the few years he has been practicing medicine here he has been favored with a liberal patronage. A native son of the county, his birth occurred in Polk, October 23, 1880, his parents being John C. aiid Martha (McCarty) Jacoby, also natives of this county. His father, who for a number of years was in the mercantile and milling business, is now connected with manufacturing enterprises in Cleveland, Ohio, while the family home is in Ashland, Ohio.

The public schools of Ashland afforded Dr. Jacoby his preliminary education and his first step in the business world was that of a clerk in his father's store in this city, in which he was employed for a time. He then continued his studies in Poughkeepsie Military Institute, later becoming a student at the Hudson River Military Institute, from which he was graduated. Having a desire to adopt the practice of medicine as his life's calling, he was entered as a student at the Ohio Medical College, at Columbus, where he pursued a complete course of study and was graduated in the class of 1905. During the period of his medical instruction he was associated with Dr. W. U. Cole, an eminent physician and surgeon, and under his preeeptorship he acquired much practical surgical experience, the benefit of which he now enjoys. Immediately upon being graduated he came to Savannah, establishing himself as a physician and surgeon, and has since, by his earnestness and attentiveness to his patients, won the confidence and esteem of the residents of the city and surrounding country and acquired a large and lucrative practice. Dr. Jacoby has a splendidly equipped office, provided with all of the scientific apparatus necessary to the practice of the various departments of medicine and surgery and is rapidly becoming widely known for his success and skill in performing difficult operations.

On October 22, 1907, Dr. Jacoby was united in marriage to Miss Frances Troxel, daughter of Daniel and Rebecca (Rudy) Troxel, her father being a prosperous agriculturalists of this county. They have one child, Kenneth 0. Politically Dr. Jacoby is a democrat and, being a public spirited man, has favored every movement designed for the betterment of the municipality. He has been influential throughout the city in lending his aid to all measures designed to elevate his fellowmen morally, mentally and physically. He is a member of the Alpha Kappa Kappa, a medical society of the Ohio Medical College, and frequently reads excellently prepared and learned papers before its meetings and those of kindred associations. He is a deep student as well as a skillful practitioner and makes it a point to keep abreast with the age in all branches of study pertaining to his profession and has attained to a high point of medical learning. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, to which his wife also belongs and both, being possessed of friendly qualities, are leading, factors in the social life of the city. During his college days the Doctor actively participated in various games, particularly baseball, football and polo and in these sports, being still enthusiastic, he finds recreation while at the same time he enjoys hunting and fishing and is a strong advocate of clean and manly sports of all kinds.

Joshua Bowman

Joshua Bowman, still residing on the farm where his birth occurred and which has remained his home throughout his long and useful career, is numbered among the worthy native sons of Orange township, Ashland county, his natal day being November 13, 1823. His parents, John and Catherine (Altman) Bowman, made their way from Fayette county, Pennsylvania, to this county at a very early day, taking up their abode in Orange township when this section of the state was entirely covered with timber and but sparsely settled. With undaunted and determined spirit, however, they set about the task of establishing a home in this pioneer region, where they continued to reside until called to their final rest, their labors proving an important element in the work of early development and upbuilding here. From that early ^period in the county's history to the present time the name of Bowman has ever been a synonym for

On the 16th of April, 1852, Joshua Bowman was united in marriage to Miss Agnes McFadden, a daughter of Edward and Agnes (Smith) MeFadden, who removed from Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, to Wayne county, Ohio, and soon afterward came to Orange township, casting in their lot with the early pioneer settlers of this county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bowman have been born two sons : Emory, a grain and hay dealer of Polk, who is likewise an extensive landowner ; and Tully, who lives on the farm of his father.

Joshua Bowman and his wife began their domestic life upon the original Bowman farm of one hundred and seventy-two acres in Orange township, and here they have since remained in contented and happy companionship, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years have gone by. For many years they have been consistent and faithful members of the Presbyterian church the teachings of which they exemplify in their daily lives. The highest testimonial to their well spent and upright lives is found in the respect, admiration and honor which are uniformly accorded them by their associates and friends. Moreover, they have witnessed the transformation of this part of the state from a wild and unsettled region into a rich agricultural district, teeming with all the evidences of an advanced civilization, and can tell of many hardships and privations endured by the early settlers in their efforts to bring about this wonderful change.

H. C. Westover, auditor of Ashland county, in which position he is rendering the community valuable service, is a man of good judgment and administrative capacities, and from all points of view is justly entitled to honorable mention among the municipality's representative men. His birth occurred in Nevada, Ohio, August 14, 1860, a son of James M. and Phebe (Alban) Westover, his father a native of Crawford county, this state, while his mother was born in Hancock county. The birth of the elder Mr. Westover occurred in January, 1829, and in his native county he was reared to manhood, there becoming familiar with the miller's trade. About the time of his marriage he removed to Nevada, where through his own exertions and industry he finally acquired ownership of a grist mill which he operated for a number of years. To this city he removed in 1875 and here also was identified with the- milling business until his death, which occurred February 6, 1906. He was prominent in democratic circles, being an ardent supporter of the principles of that party. He always upheld its candidates during campaigns and for two terms served in the position of street commissioner. Mrs. Westover, who is still living at the advanced age of seventy-four years, resides with her son and daughter in this city.

H. C. Westover was reared under the care of his parents, acquiring his education in the common schools and the high school here. After completing his studies, being ambitious to launch out in the business world for himself, in

1880 he apprenticed himself to the tinsmith's trade, which he successfully completed and for several years followed as a journeyman. In the fall of 1902 his brother, Edson B. Westover, was elected to the office of county auditor, taking his seat in the fall of the following year, and one year later, in October, 1904, H. C. Westover was made deputy auditor and at the death of Edson B., which occurred August 25, 1908, the deputy auditor was appointed by the county commissioners to perform the duties of the office until the time for the regular election. That time having arrived the subject of this review was nominated for the position on the democratic ticket and elected without opposition to fill the unexpired term of his deceased brother, this term ending the third Monday in October, 1909. Since assuming the duties of this office he has been transacting its affairs with uncommon ability and is recognized as one of the most efficient auditors in the service of the commonwealth.

In 1888 Mr. Westover was united in marriage to Miss Delia M. Knoth, a daughter of Frank and Catherine (Snyder) Knoth, her father being deceased. Mr. Westover 's fraternal affiliations are with the Masonic order, being a member of Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. ; also Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I.O.O.F., the Ashland Encampment, No. 130, and Canton Ashland, No. 41, Uniform Rank. At one time he was commander of the regiment, and he is also a member of the Knights of the Maccabees, being a charter member of the organization, while his religious affiliations are with the Presbyterian church. Mr. Westover is one of the most popular men in the county, and deserves the excellent reputation he sustains as one of Ashland's representative citizens.

John C. Shafer

John C. Shafer owns and cultivates a good farm of seventy acres in Orange township and is numbered among the representative agriculturists of the community. He was born April 22, 1866, in Monroe county, Ohio, and is a son of Isaac W. and Pluma (Conger) Shafer. The father also followed the occupation of farming and both he and his wife are still residents of Monroe county.

Spending his boyhood days under the parental roof, John C. Shafer was early trained to the work of the fields and pursued his education in the district schools and the county normal. He engaged in teaching for thirteen years in the country schools, and was quite successful, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge that he had acquired, and thus contributing to the intellectual progress of the community. Since February, 1902, he has resided in Orange township and now has seventy acres of good land which he has brought under a high state of cultivation. He carefully tills his fields according to the modem methods of farming and as a result annually gathers good harvests as a reward for his industry and perseverance.

On the 6th of February, 1890, Mr. Shafer was united in marriage to Miss Campie Moose, a daughter of John J. and Sarah (Early) Moose, of Monroe county, Ohio. Her father served his country as a soldier in the Union army in the Civil war and was wounded in the battle of Gettysburg. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shafer there were born four children : Bessie, a school teacher ; Crystal ; Myrtle ; and Opal, but the third daughter has passed away. The parents are well known in Orange township where their genuine worth has won them many friends and gained for them the hospitality of the best homes of the community in which they reside. Mr. Shafer has been somew'hat active in public life. He has never ceased to feel the deepest interest in the cause of education, has served as president of the school board and for two years has been its clerk. In this belongs to a teacher's organization and is a member of Mohican Lodge, No. 87, I. 0. 0. F., at Ashland and of the encampment. He gives his political allegiance to the democratic party, keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day and does all in his power to promote the growth' and insure the success of democratic principles. He is now' serving as a member of the county central committee and was clerk of the county election board in Monroe county. He has likewise frequently been a delegate to the county conventions and his opinions carry weight in the local councils. His religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Christian church, to which his family also belong. He takes an active and helpful interest in the church work, is serving as one of the deacons and is a worker as well in the Sunday school. He is justly regarded as an intelligent, progressive citizen, favoring everything that is good and practical and lending helpful aid to many measures which have been of marked benefit in promoting the interests and upbuilding of the county.

Dr. Daniel L. Mohn is one of the self-made men who, actuated by a laudable ambition and strong purpose, laid the plans for his own advancement and, choosing a professional career, provided for the necessary collegiate training through his own labors. His strength of character and earnest purpose have also been manifest since he entered upon the active practice of medicine and surgery and have carried him into important professional relations so that he is now well known as one of the representative and honored followers of this calling. He was born in Richland county, Ohio, six miles west of Ashland on the 2d of December, 1867, his parents being John B. and Elizabeth S. (Miller) Mohn, the former a native of Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, and the latter of Lancaster county, that state. They arrived in Richland county, Ohio, with their respective parents during their youthful days and were there reared and married. The father learned the millwright's trade as a young man under the direction of his father and about the time of his marriage he purchased the Olivesburg grist mills which he operated for eighteen years. Failing in health he sold the mills and invested in a small tract of .land of ten acres near Shiloh, in Richland county. Upon that little place he took up his abode and there spent his remaining days in retirement from business cares. At the time of the Civil war he had espoused the cause of the Union and joined the boys in blue wdth Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-first Ohio Regiment, with which he served for more than three years. He was with Sherman on the march to the sea, was wounded in one battle and at another time suffered a sunstroke. He was frequently on the firing line and at all times displayed a spirit of undaunted loyalty and valor. His political allegiance was given to the republican party of which he was a stanch advocate. He died in the Lutheran faith July 26, 1905, when he was fifty-seven years of age, and is still survived by his wife who now resides in the village of Shiloh.

In the Olivesburg public schools Dr. Daniel L. Mohn acquired his early education and afterward spent two terms in the Shiloh high school. As early as his fifteenth year he began working as a farm hand and in 1888, when but twenty-one years of age, he took up the profession of teaching which he followed through the ensuing winter. In the early fall of 1889 he entered upon a course of study at the Ohio Northern Normal University and in the winter of 1889-90 he again engaged in teaching. In the summer of the latter year he took up the study of medicine under Dr. S. S. Holtz of Shiloh, now of Plymouth, and he obtained collegiate training in preparation for the practice of medicine and surgery in the fall of 1890, matriculating in the Hahnemann Medical College of Chicago, pursuing his first course of lectures that winter. He afterward engaged in teaching school until the fall of 1892 when he entered the Cleveland University of Medicine & Surgery where he took his second course. He afterward accepted a position in the office of the Cherry Valley & Salem Iron Works in Latonia, Ohio, where he continued until September, 1895, when he again entered the Cleveland University of Medicine & Surgery, being graduated therefrom with the class of 1896. Dr. Mohn paid his own way through college with the funds secured in teaching and in commercial lines, and although a period of some time had elapsed since his previous study in college and he had two extra studies that year, he was given charge of his class and in this way paid his tuition. In 1905 he pursued a post-graduate course in the New York Homeopathic Medical College Hospital and he also took a course in the Cleveland City Hospital. Following his graduation he took charge of Dr. Roseberry's practice in Olivesburg while that physician was away on a vacation, and in October, following, he located in Ashland where he has been successfully engaged in practice through the intervening twelve years. He is a member of the Ohio State Homeopathic Medical Society and of the Ashland County Medical Society, lie also belongs to the Sixth District Medical Association comprising eight counties. The same determination which enabled him to gain an education in the face of difficulties and obstacles which would utterly have discouraged many a man of less resolute spirit, has actuated him in his progress, prompting him to put forth indefatigable effort for the benefit of his patients and he performs each professional service with a sense of conscientious obligation.

On the 23d of December, 1896, Dr. Mohn was united in marriage to Miss Ella E. Clegg, a daughter of Samuel Clegg of Otego, Otsego county, New York. Mrs. Mohn is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and is the leader of the choir in the Methodist Episcopal church, being quite accomplished in both vocal and instrumental music. Their home is the center of a cultured society circle and its hospitality is most attractive. Dr. Mohn is well known in fraternal circles, belonging to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. &

A. M. ; to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. 0. F. ; to the Tribe of Ben Ilur ; to the Modern Woodmen of America ; the Mutual Benefit Association and the Protective Home Circle; as well as the Physicians' Casualty Company. He is likewise connected with the Ustion Society, a medical fraternity. In politics he is a republican, interested in the work of the party and for two terms he served as chairman of the executive committee. He is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and is now serving on its official board. Honorable manhood, upright principles and fidelity to duty in all relations of citizenship and of the profession, he well merits the regard entertained for him in the position which he has won in his chosen calling.

Franklin P. Buchanan

Franklin P. Buchanan, a retired agriculturist of Sullivan township, this county, who however is yet the owner of valuable farming property, is of Scotch descent. The American branch of the family was founded in Pennsylvania. His grandfather, David Buchanan, came to this state with his family in the early days making the journey from Pennsylvania by wagons. His parents, William and Rebecca (Plummer) Buchanan, who were united in marriage in Middleton, Pennsylvania, April 10, 1838, came to this state shortly afterward and settled in Jackson township, where they lived for several years before locating in Sullivan township. Upon their arrival they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. The surrounding country at that time was covered with forest. Here after having constructed a log cabin home, Mr. Buchanan began clearing the land and putting it in a fit state for cultivation. Prosperity from year to year attended his efforts and to the original one hundred and sixty acres upon which he settled, he added from time to time, until at his death, which occurred August 29, 1892, he was probably the largest individual land owner in the county. In addition to having engaged in the producing of general crops he also paid much attention to stock-raising, especially sheep, of which he usually kept on hand in the neighborhood of one thousand head. He had been twice united in marriage, his first wife, who passed away April 13, 1868, leaving six children, the surviving ones being Jane H., of Albion, this state; Robert P., an agriculturalist of this county, and Franklin P. ; and by his second wife he had two sons, namely: Wiley A., and David L. C.

In the public schools of Albion, this county, Franklin P. Buchanan acquired his education, and until he was twenty-four years of age remained upon his father's farm, at which period of his life he was united in marriage and then repaired to this township where, with the exception of three years, between the years 1894 and 1897, which were spent in Medina county, he has since engaged here in general agriculture and stock-raising, in which he is meeting with splendid success. He now possesses several splendid farms aggregating three hundred and fifty acres, all of which are well improved and under a high state of cultivation. In addition to this property he owns considerable valuable real estate in the village of Sullivan and also an elegant residence in which he is now re- siding. He superintends his farming interests and looks after other financial affairs, but does no active work on the farms. Moreover, his property interests are not confined to this place since he also possesses one hundred and forty acres of land, together with residence property in Medina county.

On the 20th of September, 1877, Mr Buchanan was united in marriage to Miss Emma J. Smith, a daughter of William B. and Mary (Rowley) Smith, of Homer, Medina county. She departed this life on June 25, 1904, and he wedded Miss Ada M. Hiar, a native of Medina, on August 10, of the following year, his second wife being a daughter of Robert J. and Anna N. (Lane) Hiar. Her father was a prominent farmer of Ionia county, Michigan, and was formerly largely identified with agricultural interests in Medina county, this state.

In politics Mr. Buchanan is a democrat, and although he takes considerable interest in public questions and keeps well informed on the issues of the day he does not aspire to office holding and is not active during elections beyond casting his vote for the candidates of his party. Being a progressive man and one who is public spirited he is always ready to assist any movement in the direction of local improvements and was one of the promoters of the local telephone company, of which he is now the treasurer. He belongs to Sullivan Lodge, No. 331, A. F. & A. M., Wooster Council, Knight Templars, and has been treasurer of the lodge here for the past sixteen years. His wife also has a number of lodge affiliations and belongs to the Eastern Star, the Maccabees, and Womans Christian Temperance Union. She is also a member of the Congregational church, in all of the departments of which she is a leading factor. Mr. Buchanan is a man of sterling qualities of character, progressive in his ideas, and his upright life and straightforward dealings have merited the confidence and respect of the entire community.

John F. Obrecht

John F. Obrecht, the owner of two hundred and forty acres of rich farm land in Lake township, where he carries on general farming and stock raising, was born October 21, 1867, on the farm which he now makes his home. His parents, George and Christina (Kunkle) Obrecht, were natives of Alsace-Lorraine, his birth occurring August 20, 1830, while she was born on the 18th of May, 1831. They were both reared in their native land and were there married in 1852, while the following year they sailed for the United States, coming direct to Loudonville, Ohio. Here he became engaged in agricultural pursuits, renting a farm for a while and then purchasing eighty acres of land, which he continued to operate until his demise. Death came to him December 19, 1900, while his wife survived him for only a few years, passing away January 24, 1904. In their family were four children : George, who died April 4, 1894, at the age of forty-four years, five months and twenty-four days, leaving a widow; Mary, the wife of Martin Araholt, of Mohican township; William II. , who resides on a farm near tha^ of John F. ; and John F. of this review.