Ashland City (part 22 of 57)

George C. McConnell, who is now living a retired life after having been identified with the farming and stock-raising interests of Sullivan township for a number of years, is a native of Jackson township, where his birth occurred August 2, 1841, and a son of Thomas and Margaret (Miller) McConnell, his father having been a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and his mother of Baltimore, Maryland. Both came to Ohio with their parents, in 1833, and settled in Orange township. Both families made the journey by wagon and on horseback, bringing along the family cow, which was one of the most important accessories to their wagon train. The entire country was then in a primitive state, being thickly covered with woodland, and upon their arrival here their first work was the erection of a log cabin. After providing this shelter they at once began clearing off the land, cutting roads through the forests, bridging the swamps and marshes, and in constructing such buildings on their property as were necessary to the agriculturist. They were an industrious and enterprising people, who, being ambitious to succeed, worked with untiring energy and from year to year increased their prosperity until they became extensive landowners and were numbered among the influential and substantial farmers of the county. Thomas McConnell was well known as a breeder of fine stock and particularly of slieep. His sturdy qualities of character enabled him to wield a strong influence for good in the community. He departed this life in March, 1876, his wife surviving him thirty years, her death occurring in August, 1906. In their family were two sons and three daughters, namely : George C. ; Thomas M., who served during the Civil war in Company B., One Hundred and Seventyeighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and lost his life in the service; Rachel, who became the wife of Cromwell Marsh, residing in the state of Washington; and Adeline, who is the wife of M. Frink, of this township. The fifth child is deceased.

In the district schools of the county, George C. McConnell acquired his education and there enjoyed many happy experiences which his memory still retains, and to which he delights to revert.

He recalls with pleasure the fact that he was one among the boys who were chosen to stand guard at the schoolhouse door for the purpose of keeping out the snakes. While they were of a harmless variety their presence was not wanted by the schoolmaster as they were a means of doing anything but preserving the good behavior of the pupils and in order that the reptiles might be kept within their own territory, it was customary to have the older boys take turns in standing at the doorway to prevent them from entering. He had not long completed his studies when the Civil war broke out, and in 1861, at the first call for volunteers, he enlisted in Company B, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which regiment he served three months. He participated in the first battle of the war which took place at Philippi, West Virginia, and after the engagement he assisted the surgeon of the regiment in the first operation performed upon a wounded Confederate soldier who had been taken prisoner. On the 5th of October, 1862, he reenlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered out in June, 1865, as second lieutenant. His regiment participated in some of the hardest fought battles of the war, and at Decatur, Alabama, in October, 1864, he was struck by a piece of shell and twice by bullets from sharpshooters, both bullets having been fired within a few minutes of each other and striking him almost in the same place, but as the bullets had come from a great distance and had practically lost most of their force they did little damage.

After the war Mr. McConnell engaged in farming and the dairy business in Jackson township, where he remained for five years, his first dwelling house being a log cabin. He then removed to this township December 2, 1885, and located on the farm he now cultivates. In 1894 he took up the grain and elevator business in the village of Sullivan, and for the subsequent five years handled a large trade in hay and grain, at the same time cultivating his farm and attending to his dairy and stock interests. Since the year 1899 he has continued to live on his farm but has withdrawn from active life and does little but superintend his farm vrork and take care of his financial interests. His farm contains three hundred and twenty-five acres of excellent land, all of which is highly improved and well drained. It is provided with a comfortable home, substantial barns and outbuildings, with every rod of fencing in excellent repair, and in fact the premises are equipped with every convenience wfith which to make his farm thoroughly modern.

On February 12, 1865, while at home as a recruiting officer, Mr. McConnell was united in marriage to Miss Charlotta Whitcomb, daughter of Horace and Jane (Toms) Whitcomb, her father having been a native of Vermont and her mother of Auburn, New York. Mr. Whitcomb came to Sullivan township in 1835, preceding his wife by three years, and here he followed general farming and stock raising until his death, in June, 1886. His wife departed this life March 19, 1905. To Mr. and Mrs. McConnell have been born five children, namely : Thomas II., deceased; Horace E., of Milford Center, this state; Curtis M., of

Mr. McConnell is a democrat and has taken an active part in politics and frequently officiated as delegate to county, district and state conventions. His intelligence and good judgment, together with his knowledge of public affairs, have made him very useful in the community and he has served twelve years as township trustee and for many years as a member of the board of education. He has always been an advocate of public improvements and foremost among those in favor of promoting every movement having for its object better roads and a better school system. Mr. McConnell is a comrade of Fuller Smith Post, No. 356, G. A. R., of which he has been commander for thirteen years and the organization has made him a delegate to almost every state and national encampment. Amid all his business affairs and various experiences he has always found time to perform his religious obligations and attends divine services at the Congregational church, of which he and his family are members and liberal supporters. He is very fond of travel in which he finds entertainment and recreation and has ample means with which to gratify his longings. Mr. McConnell is one of the most highly respected men of the community and a man whose association is both pleasurable and instructive and his home is known throughout the county for both its culture and hospitality.

L. C. Galloway

The home farm of L. C. Galloway is pleasantly located about a half mile northwest of Mohicanville, and comprises the northwest quarter of section 32, Mohican township. His residence is a good brick dwelling and the enterprise and energy which he has displayed in his business affairs has enabled him to provide comfortably for his family. He is numbered among the substantial residents of this part of the state, placing his dependence upon indefatigable energy and constant watchfulness in his efforts to acquire a competence.

His birth occurred in Vermillion township, this county, on the 11th of December, 1856, his parents being William G. and Ann (Bradley) Galloway. The father was a native of Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and in early life came to Ashland county with his parents, who settled in Vermillion township. The grandfather of our subject was also a native of the Keystone state and was of Scotch descent, five brothers of the family coming from Scotland to America in colonial days. The grandfather, thinking to have better opportunities to provide a good home for his family on the frontier, removed westward to Ohio and, as much of the land was still in possession of the government he entered a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, comprising a quarter section in Vermillion township. There he made his home throughout his remaining days and prospering as the years went by he purchased another quarter section of land lying in Green township. With characteristic energy he began the development of his farm, performing all the arduous labor incident to the transformation of a forest tract into cultivable fields. His family numbered seven children, Thomas, William, James, Joseph, Jane, Elizabeth and Sarah.

William G. Galloway, the father of our subject, assisted materially in the improvement . of the new farm, cutting down the trees grubbing up the stumps, burning the brush and turning the first furrows. The work of plowing and planting was then carried on and in course of time the result was entirely satisfactory, for the rich soil of Ohio brought forth substantial crops. In community affairs he was also active and served as justice of the peace for many years. He was likewise infirmary director 'for two terms and in all public interests displayed a loyalty to the general welfare that was most commendable. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and his opinions bore considerable weight in the local councils of his party. Having arrived at years of maturity, he married Ann Bradley, a native of Maine, who was brought by her widowed mother to Ashland county at the age of six years. She had two brothers: James, who resided in Green township throughout his entire life; and John, who drove with a threshing machine to Tama comity, Iowa, and spent his remaining days in that locality. The father died in 1880 and the mother passed away December 5, 1877. In their family were five children: Mary Jane, the deceased wife of Albert Shoup ; Joseph, who married Jane Brubaker, and both are now deceased; Nancy, who is the widow of Albert Carroll and resides in Vermillion township; Margaret, the deceased wife of Jasper Cams; and L. C., of this review.

L. C. Gallo wajr remained in Vermillion township until twenty-two years of age, attending school and working on the farm. He then began work as a railroad section man, in which capacity he was employed for a short time and later worked by the month for James Humphrey, as a farm hand. He was thus employed for four years at the end of which time his father passed away and he began farming for himself on the old homestead. At the age of thirty years he was married and for a year thereafter lived upon the Crown farm. In 1888, he came to his present farm, where he has resided continuously since. The place comprises one hundred and sixty acres, which was formerly the property of his father-in-law, Henry Wachtel, whose widow resides with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. This is a well improved farm, supplied with good buildings. Upon the place is a large bank barn, seventy by forty feet, with other commodious outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. It is a pleasant location within a half mile of Mohicanville, enables him to secure all of the advantages afforded by the town and at the same time enjoy the opportunities of rural life. In addition to this property Mr. Galloway owns one hundred and sixty acres in Vermillion township, just south of Hayesville, which is operated on shares.

On the 27th of October, 1887, Mr. Galloway was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Wachtel, who was born in Mohicanville in 1866, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Helbert) Wachtel. The mother was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1828, and when six years of age came to this county with her parents. Mention of the Helbert family is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert, on another page of this work. The father, Henry Wachtel, was born June 16, 1829, in Wayne county, Ohio, and died in Mohicanville, December 25, 1889. He was only two years of age when his mother died and his father afterward removed to Mohican township, Ashland county, where his remaining days were spent. Henry Wachtel also continued a lifelong resident of Mohican township and was prominent in business circles, conducting a general store in Mohicanville for twenty-six years. He also had a store in Shreve for six and a half years and was interested in a store in Perrysville, the extent of his business affairs making him one of the prominent and influential residents of this part of the state. He also was at one time the owner of the farm on which Mr. Galloway resides. He married Sarah Helbert, who still survives her husband and is now living with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. Their children were seven in number: Mrs. Mary Humphrey, who died at the age of thirty-two years, leaving two daughters; Jacob Milo, who died in childhood; John Willis, who died in July, 1907, leaving a widow and three children; George Edmond, who is a widower and has two children, their home being in Toledo, Ohio; one who died in infancy; Mrs. Galloway; and Charles Henry, who died at the age of two years and ten months.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Galloway was blessed with one son, Glenn W., who was born August 23, 1891, on the farm where he is still living with his parents. Both Mr. and Mrs. Galloway are representatives of old and well known families of this part of the state and are highly esteemed in the community where they live. Their influence is always on the side of progress and improvement and their labors have been effective in promoting the general welfare. Mr. Galloway is well known as one of the leading agriculturists of this part of the county, manifesting a spirit of undaunted progress in all that he does, while at all times his labors are practical, winning substantial results.

R. L. Glenn

R. L. Glenn, of Ashland a member of the firm of Reep & Glenn, liverymen, was born in Green township, Ashland county, November 13, 1853. His grandfathers, Joshua Glenn and William Ewing, early settlers of this county, located in Mohican township, where they spent their lives in the pursuit of agriculture. He is a son of William and Caroline (Ewing) Glenn, both natives of this county. Mr. Glenn during his career engaged in farming at different times in Green, Milton, Montgomery, Vermillion and Mohican townships, his latter years being spent in the last named place, where he passed away February 17, 1905.

Upon his father's farm during his boyhood days, R. L. Glenn passed through the usual experiences common to the country lad, in the summer months engaging in the daily routine of agricultural life and in the winter acquiring his education in the public schools, remaining at home until he was united in marriage, all the while assisting his father. In 1876, he left home and started to farm for himself, locating on a tract of land owned by his father in Vermillion township, where he remained until 1883 when he removed to a farm in Milton township. That tract of land was also the possession of his father and there he remained for thirteen years, at the termination of which time he returned to Vermillion township, where he pursued agriculture for three years and then moved to Jeromeville, this county, where he established himself in the hotel and livery business, continuing in it until 1907, when he came to this city and for a time engaged in buying and selling horses. He also worked for about eight months in the Erie freight depot and on August 7, 1908, he purchased the interest of Mr. Roberts of the firm of Reep & Roberts, liverymen, and has since been an active partner in the enterprise, the company being now known as that of Reep & Glenn.

Mr. Glenn wredded Phoebe E. Carr, of Vermillion township, by whom he has one son, James W., a graduate of Jeromeville high school, who resides at home with his parents. Mr. Glenn votes the republican ticket and his interest in local affairs is made manifest by the fact that he served for a number of terms on the school board in Jeromeville and has also officiated in a number of other minor offices. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 154, K. P., in which he is well known for his activity and, being a man of strong character and excellent business acumen, whose enterprise and industry have not only brought him prosperity but also enabled him to appreciably enhance the commercial worth of the city, he merits the reputation he bears as one of its leading business men.

There is no profession so little commercialized as the practice of medicine and surgery. This is manifest in the fact that the medical fraternity are continually giving to the public facts concerning the best methods of preventing as well as checking disease and are continually laboring to bring about conditions which will promote the general healthfulness. Dr. Sherick stands as a high type of the conscientious, able physician whose careful diagnosis and well applied skill have made him a forceful factor in the line of activity which ho has chosen as a life work. A native of Ashland county, Ohio, he was born on the 19th of June, 1856, and was the fifth in the family of David and Susan (Jacobs) Sherick. Six of their children are still living. The father was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1823 and is now living in Seneca county, Ohio. He was for many years identified with farming interests but has now reached the age of eighty-five years and has retired from active participation in agricultural lines. His wife passed away in 1863.

On the old homestead farm Dr. Sherick was reared and when he had become of sufficient age he assisted his father in the work of the fields through the summer months, while in the district schools he acquired his education in the winter seasons. When about sixteen years of age he became a student in the Burbank Academy, where he remained for one year, after which he spent two years in study at Lodi, Ohio, and a year and a half in Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio. During the summer months he assisted his father on the farm. Dr. Schuyler, who was then president of Baldwin University, watched Dr. Sherick working out a problem on the blackboard one day and at length said, "Stick to it, young man, and you will come out all right;" for the perseverance which he displayed caused Dr. Schuyler to realize that there was in him a force of character that would enable him to overcome greater difficulties and obstacles in later years. The same quality has characterized his entire life and given him high standing in his profession. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as his life work, he entered the Toledo Medical School, connected with St. Vincent's Hospital, and was the first to matriculate in this school. After remaining there for six months he entered the Bellevue Hospital Medical College of New York, from which he was graduated in due time, after which he devoted his time and energies to general practice for about thirteen years. He then -pursued a four months' course in a post-graduate hospital of New York and about six years later again spent six months in the post-graduate hospital of New York. He likewise continued his studies in the post-graduate hospital in Chicago and in July, 1908, entered upon a course in Berlin, Germany, where he carried on his investigations for six months. During that time he received special instruction from Professors Bumm and Kramer in clinical work pertaining to gynecology and operative surgery. He was also connected yvith the Bier clinic, where he spent five months in surgical diagnosis and operative surgery. He likewise spent three months in connection with Professor Halley in the study of diseases of the nose, throat and ear and in addition to all this he pursued a course in cystoscopy under Professor Frank. He returned to America with a mind greatly enriched with the knowledge that he had gained abroad and thus with renewed ability, energy and zeal he resumed his life work. He again reached the United States on the 1st of March, 1909. While abroad he had also visited the Rotter Hospital, a Catholic institution, and saw many, operations by Professor Israel and Professor Crowser. He likewise witnessed a number of operations in Ewald Hospital on the intestines and on the brain and visited Professor Auldhousen's hospital and clinic, where much surgical work was done in his presence. He is regarded today as one of the learned representatives of the profession in Ohio, his ability carrying him into important relations in his chosen field of labor. While he continues in the general practice of medicine, he is yet well versed in several special lines and his ability is evidenced in the splendid success which attends his labors. In addition to his professional interests Dr. Sherick is a stockholder in the Reliable match factory of Ashland and in the Ashland Steel Range Company.

In 1883 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Sherick and Miss Ruth Thomas, who was born in this county and is the daughter of Peter Thomas, Sr. They have two sons, Charles T. and Clyde C. The elder, after completing a course in the Ashland high school, entered the high school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he remained for three years and is now in business in this city, being one of the stockholders of the Reliable match factory. Clyde C. Sherick was educated in the Ashland high school and the Ohio State University, where he pursued a four years' course and was graduated with the Bachelor of Arts degree, while in June, 1910, he will complete the course of law in that institution. He is much in advance of his class now, with a grade averaging from ninety-six to ninety-eight. Both sons are bright young men who have done excellent work in school and of whom the parents have every reason to be proud.

Mrs. Sherick holds membership in the Disciple church and the Doctor is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; the Ashland County Medical Society, of which he is serving as president; Fifth District Medical Society; Ohio State Medical Society ; and the American Medical Association ; while his political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has made continuous progress in his profession, holding to high ideals in all of his work and the value of his service is widely recognized, not only by the general public but by the profession as well.

William Hess

William Hess, whose life of usefulness and activity was terminated on the 27th of March, 1909, was for many years numbered among the representative substantial and public-spirited citizens of Ashland county. He was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, March 13, 1848, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Flack) Hess. When but five years of age he accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Ohio, the family home being established on a farm in Jackson township, Ashland county. On that farm William Hess grew to manhood, was married, reared a family and spent the remainder of his life, covering a period of more than fifty-six years. In his agricultural interests he met with a gratifying and well merited measure of success, being widely recognized as a most prosperous and influential citizen.

On the 29th of October, 1868, Mr. Hess was united in marriage to Miss Lydiann Shopbell, a daughter of Jacob and Lydiann (Sigler) Shopbell, her girlhood home being the old Shopbell farm near Leidigh's Mill in Orange township, one of the landmarks in Ashland county. Eight children were born unto them, as follows : Mrs. Henry Switzer, of Orange township ; Elizabeth, who died at the age of two years; James, a resident of Polk; Yinnie, who died when but six years of age ; Almeda, who became the wife of Roscoe Emmons and was called to her final rest November 15, 1901 ; Franklin, who died in infancy ; Leroy, at home; and Mrs. Ray Kopp, of Orange township. For four decades Mr. and Mrs. Hess traveled life's journey together and shared with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years went by. Mr. Hess is survived by two sisters, namely : Mrs. Susan Jacobs, of Lattasburg; and Mrs. Lucy Myers, of Fredonia, Kansas.

In his political affiliation Mr. Hess was a stanch democrat, never wavering in his allegiance to the party in the slightest degree. One of the local papers, in a review of his life, said : "In every campaign he was the embodiment of enthusiasm and energy. A firm believer in the party primary, he believed the party should make its fight there and then support the successful candidates at the general election. Nobody ever accused William Hess of being a 'sorehead' or being disgruntled or of treachery. His unswerving loyalty was for a generation taken as a matter of course. At the time of his death he was central committeeman from Jackson township, an office he had held for years. In every county, state and national campaign for twenty years he was a member of the committee named to assess candidates. No matter who the other members might happen to be, William Hess of Jackson township was always sure to be one. He was always regarded as the soul of honor. In 1890 he was elected county commissioner, taking his office January 1, 1891. He held the position for two terms, or six years, and that was all he ever asked of the party he had served so long and faithfully. A good many men in politics only work for themselves. If they win an office that ends their party service. If they fail they become disheartened and disinterested. Not so with William Hess. He always worked, in every campaign, for others. It is doubtful if there is a man in the county, in either party, who has done as much work, gratis, for others as he did during the last quarter of a century. Nowhere outside the home circle will he be missed more than in the councils of his party." In his death the county lost one of its most respected, honored and useful citizens, his associates a kind and helpful friend and his family a loving husband and indulgent father.

John E. Shopbell

Among the enterprising and progressive farmers of Orange township is numbered John E. Shopbell, who owns and cultivates an excellent farm of one hundred and seventy-four acres which constitutes one of the best improved properties of the locality. He is also a representative of one of the most prominent pioneer families of Ashland county. The ancestry of the Shopbells can be traced back to the time of the persecution of the Huguenots in France; the great-great-grandparents of Shopbell having been beheaded because of their religious belief, while their bodies were thrown into the River Seine. Their son, Eberhart Shopbell, was a witness to the horrible fate of his parents, but managed to escape and made his way to America with eight companions, becoming the founder of the family on the soil of the new world. He located in Pennsylvania where the family lived for some time. His son, Daniel Shopbell. the grandfather of John E. Shopbell, espoused the cause of the colonists at the time of the Revolutionary war and served for several years under General Washington, thus giving valuable aid to the cause of liberty. With his family he afterward removed to Ashland county, Ohio, and since that time the Shopbells have resided in this part of the state. He was prominent in the early affairs of the county, active in its development and helpful in establishing its political, legal and moral status. His son, Samuel Shopbell, was also very prominent here, taking an active part in many progressive public movements, while in the private interests of life he followed farming and became an extensive laud owner and dealer in stock. He married Sophia Cassel, also a representative of one of the old and prominent families of the county. They became the parents of seven children: Jacob, Margaret, Sarah, Alice, Sophena, John E., and Ada.

Both the oldest and youngest are now deceased. The father passed away March 14, 1908, at the venerable age of ninety-eight years, a life of usefulness, activity and honor being thus ended. He had for almost three years survived his wife, who died June 4, 1905.

Samuel Shopbell

John E. Shopbell spent his youth upon his father's farm and is indebted to the district schools of his native township for the educational privileges he received. His youth passed in the manner of most farmer boys, quietly and uneventfully, and yet he formed habits which have borne rich fruit in his later years, making him a substantial and a successful citizen. Having arrived at years of maturity, he was married on November 25, 1888, to Miss Nettie B. Lindsay, a daughter of Robert and Mary (Gibb) Lindsay, who were a prominent family of Ruggles township. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shopbell has been born one son, Clifford D.

Following his marriage Mr. Shopbell engaged in farming in Huron county, Ohio, for two years, and then removed to Clear Creek township, in Ashland county, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for seven years. On the expiration of that period he came to his present farm in Orange township, in 1902. Here he has one hundred and seventy-four acres of land that is rich and arable and through his careful cultivation he has been enabled to gather abundant crops annually. He engages in general farming and in stock raising and is recognized as one of the most prominent and progressive agriculturists of the county. He uses the latest improved machinery to facilitate the work of the fields and his capable management of his business affairs has brought to him gratifying and substantial success.

In public affairs Mr. Shopbell is also actuated by a spirit of advancement and enterprise, and cooperates in the various movements put forth for the welfare and upbuilding of the county. He is a member of the township board of education and a true friend and champion of the public schools. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist church and are interested in every effort to advance moral progress and higher citizenship. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and while he does not seek office he desires the adoption of those principles which he deems will prove of greatest good to the community and country at large.

Perry C. Moffett

Perry C. Moffett, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, was born in Lee township, Monroe county, Ohio, on the 25th of December, 1856, his parents being Francis and Hannah E. (Mitchell) Moffett, both of whom are now deceased. The father was a sailor in early life but afterward gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits.

In the acquirement of an education Perry C. Moffett attended the district schools of his native county and spent his youthful days on the home farm, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Subsequent to his marriage he was busily engaged in the tilling of the soil in Monroe county until 1901, when he came to his present place of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, where he has since carried on general farming and stock raising with gratifying success. The property

On the 29th of August, 1880, Mr. Moffett was united in marriage to Miss Louisa A. Strickling, a daughter of Joshua and Margaret A. (Baker) Stri elding, both of whom have passed away. In early manhood the father was identified with educational interests as a school teacher but later took up farming in Monroe county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moffett have been born six children, namely: Joshua, Margaret A., Elsie A., Edith M., Wilbert P. and Annabelle.

Politically Mr. Moffett is a stalwart republican and has served as school director in both Monroe and Ashland counties, the cause of public instruction finding in him a warm friend. He is a public-spirited citizen whose support can be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to advance the general good and is a strong champion of all that tends to develop the community along material, intellectual and moral lines. The members of his family belong to the Disciple church, in which he has been an active Sunday school worker and is now serving as elder. In their attractive home Mr. and Mrs. Moffett dispense a pleasing and gracious hospitality to their extensive circle of friends, who esteem them highly because of their many excellent traits of heart and mind.

George M. Heffelfinger

More than a century ago George Washington said that, "agriculture is the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man." It is a well known fact that it is the basis of all prosperity for if crops are not abundant depression follows in all lines of trade. Upon the farmer, therefore, depends the growth and prosperity of the country at large. George M. Heffelfinger is among those who have done much to promote agricultural progress in this section of Ohio. He now owns and operates a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 4, Lake township, and pleasantly situated a mile south of McZena. His birth occurred in Washington township, Holmes county, Ohio, April 12, 1861. He was the eldest of a family of nine children whose parents were George and Solome (Wenner) Heffelfinger, natives of Alsace, France. The other sons and daughters of the household are as follows: Barney, living in Hanover township; Charles A., whose home is in

Washington township, Holmes county; Henry; Minnie, the wife of John Snively; Anna, the wife of Charles Arnholt, of Loudonville; Alice, who is living with her mother; and Joseph and Fred who are upon the home farm in Washington township.

Working in the fields through the summer months and attending the district schools in the winter seasons George M. Heffelfinger thus spent his boyhood days and gained that practical experience which qualified him for carrying on farming on his own account. He resided in the place of his nativity until he purchased his present farm in 1900. It has since been his home and indicates in its well kept premises the care and labor which he bestows upon it. The fields are richly cultivated and in the midst of the former stands a fine residence and commodious outbuildings, furnishing ample shelter for grain and stock. In 1901 he erected a large bank barn, thirty-six by ninety-one feet and the other buildings upon his place are equally substantial. He gives his attention to general farming and stock raising and his success follows as the logical sequence of his industry and perseverance. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Bank of Loudonville and is regarded as a man of good business judgment and unfaltering enterprise.

In 1885 Mr. Heffelfinger was married to Miss Anna Hyde, who was born in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, May 30, 1862, and was a daughter of Frederick and Katharine (Myers) Hyde, who were natives of Alsace, France. The mother arrived in Ohio at the age of seventeen years, while the father was brought to the United States by his parents when three years of age. They are still residents of Knox township, Holmes county. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heffelfinger has been blessed with two children: Clarence Earl and Ada

Mr. Heffelfinger is a member of the Trinity Evangelical church of Loudonville and is interested in all that pertains to the material, intellectual, social and moral progress of his community. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and he is serving for the seventh consecutive year as trustee of Lake township, having first been appointed to fill a vacancy while twice he has been elected to fill the office. He is connected with the Patrons of Industry and is interested in all those things which are factors in the upbuilding and development of the community. He stands as one of the representative agriculturists of Lake township, meeting with well merited success, owing to his unflagging industry and perseverance.

John E. Spreng

John E. Spreng, who has charge of the billing department of the F. E. Myers & Brother Machine Shops and who deserves honorable mention as an able business man of Ashland, was born in Wayne county, February 3, 1856, a son of Christian and Julia (Grimm) Spreng, his father a native of Alsace, Germany, and his mother of Bavaria. The former came to this country with his parents when he was sixteen years of age and the latter with her parents when she was in her ninth year, both families locating in Wayne countv. where Christian Spreng was united in marriage. Subsequently he and his wife removed to Clinton township, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits and thence went to Congress township, then to Akron, Ohio, where they spent six years, and thence to Naperville, Illinois, where they spent their remaining days, Mr. Spreng entering into rest February 22, 1908, in his ninety-first year, while his wife passed away in 1899 at the age of seventy-seven years. He supported the republican party but he never aspired to hold public office. Both he and his wife, being of a literary turn of mind, were broad readers of general literature and were thoroughly informed upon a wide range of subjects. They were faith-

John E. Spreng pursued his early studies in the schools of his birthplace, subsequently completing a course in the West Salem high school, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1879. He also attended the Miami Business College, at Dayton, Ohio, after which he located in Akron, where for nine years he was a clerk in a mercantile establishment. Resigning his position in 1889 he immediately came to Ashland, where he entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother in a clerical capacity, performing his duties efficiently for two years, at the expiration of which period he was placed in charge of the billing department of the concern, the duties of which office he has since been performing.

On February 2, 1888, Mr. Spreng was united in marriage to Miss Savilla E. Myers, daughter of George Myers, of this city, and this union has been blessed with five children, namely : J ulia Marie, member of the Ashland Musical Club, is organist of the Christian church and resides with her parents. Warren Myers, a pupil at the high school, will later be matriculated as a student in Northwestern College at Naperville, Illinois. The others are, Esther Pauline, deceased, Catherine Elizabeth and Virginia Rosalie. Mr. Spreng belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. and is also a member of the Colonial Club, of this city. He is a man whose genial disposition has surrounded him with a host of friends and whose business ability has enabled him to place himself in comfortable circumstances. He justly merits the. reputation of being among the foremost commercial leaders of the city.

Justus Fox

Justus Fox, a prosperous and enterprising farmer and stock raiser of Montgomery township, was born in Hayesville, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 3d of November, 1854, a son of Frederick Fox. He acquired his education in the district schools and in 1880 started out in business life by working farms on shares. In 1888 he purchased his first farm, comprising a tract of eighty acres, to which he later added twenty acres and two years afterward bought sixty acres more. In 1904 he still further increased his holdings by a purchase of seventy-four acres and is now the owner of two hundred and thirty-four acres of rich, productive and valuable Ohio land. His time and energies are devoted to general farming and the raising of stock, especially horses, and in all of his undertakings he has gained a measure of success which entitles him to recognition among the most substantial, representative and progressive agriculturists of his native county. He belongs to that class of self-made men who are the architects and builders of their own fortunes, for since starting out in life pn his own account he has worked his way steadily upward, realizing that untiring labor is the basis of all success.

On the 6th of September, 1885, Mr. Fox was united in marriage to Miss Anise B. Stoner, whose birth occurred in 1863. Unto them have been born the following children : Effie M., Mary Lorella, Charles J., Blanch Esther, Florence Ellen and Dora L., all of whom were educated in Ashland. Charles J. Fox attended the Columbus Agricultural College for one winter.

In his political views Mr. Fox is a stalwart democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Brethren church of Ashland. He is a quiet, home loving man, dividing his time between his family and business and takes great delight in adding to the comfort and welfare of his wife and children. He has been a resident of the county from his birth to the present time and has progressed with its development and growth, while in agricultural circles he now occupies a prominent place.

William E. Donley

William E. Donley, a representative and prosperous farmer and stock breeder of Orange township, has always resided on the farm in this township which was entered by his grandfather from the government in 1816. He was born on the 24th of February, 1852, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Alberson) Donley. As stated, in 1816 the paternal grandfather, Thomas Donley, made his way from Pennsylvania to Ashland county, Ohio, and entered a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, which has continuously remained in possession of the family to the present time. He erected a little cabin home and then returned to the Keystone state for his wife and children, bringing them to this county in the spring of 1817. They reached their destination in March of that year and on the day following their arrival, March 20, the birth of John Donley, the father of William E. Donley, occurred. In early manhood Thomas Donley had wedded Miss Susan Urey and unto them were born the following children : Elizabeth, John, Samuel, Thomas, Susan, Mary Jane, David, and James. All were reared to manhood and womanhood in Ashland county and became active and prominent in the early development and upbuilding of the community. Thomas Donley, the grandfather, was called to his final rest in 1850, having survived his wife for several years. Like his father, John Donley became a helpful and influential factor in the affairs of the county and was highly esteemed and respected by all. His demise occurred on the 26th of June, 1880, while his wife passed away November 21, 1887. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children, namely : Thomas C., Susan, Frances, William E., Mary J., Rachel, Elizabeth and Clara. All are living with the exception of the two last named.

William E. Donley was reared to manhood on the home farm and when not busy with his text-books assisted in the labor of the fields, thus early becoming familiar with the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. His preliminary education, obtained in the common schools of his native township, was supplemented by a course in Savannah Academy. Subsequent to the death of his father he came into possession of the homestead property and intends' that it shall continue to be his place of abode throughout the remainder of his days. He has never left the farm for more than three weeks at a time and his has been a useful and busy life, devoted to the pursuits of agriculture and stockraising, He is a breeder of thoroughbred Jersey cattle and registered Delaine sheep and is a recognized authority on the subject of high grade stock. In all of his undertakings he has gained a gratifying and well merited degree of prosperity and has long been numbered among the energetic, progressive and substantial agriculturists of his native county.

On the 5th of October, 1880, Mr. Donley was united in marriage to Miss Ella Ford, a daughter of Laban and Sarah (Pollock) Ford and a representative -of a prominent and well known family of Ruggles township. Mr. Ford, who followed farming as a life work, passed away in July, 1906, while his widow still survives, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Donley. The latter .has become the mother of six children, as follows: Bentley F., Mary L., the wife of Dr. Earl Roseberry; Edwin S. ; Sarah, a successful school teacher; Clara and Ruth.

Politically Mr. Donley is a stanch republican and has served for years as a member of the board of education, the cause of public instruction finding in him a strong champion. He is an advocate of all public improvements tending to promote the material, intellectual and moral advancement of the community and is a most public-spirited and enterprising citizen. He and his family are faithful members of the Presbyterian church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part. They are widely known and highly esteemed and their attractive home is a favorite resort with many of their friends.

Cornelius Brubaker

Cornelius Brubaker, who is making a success in life as a farmer and stock dealer, to which occupation he has devoted his entire life, was born in Montgomery township, July 13, 1858. Reared under the parental roof, he acquired his education in the district schools and early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the farm lad. As the years passed and his strength increased he assisted more and more largely in the work of the fields, and when he at length laid aside his text-books he devoted himself entirely to this line of activity. He owns a fine farm of fifty acres of rich land two and a half miles from the city of Ashland, and here he carries on general agricultural pursuits, while for the past eleven years he has given much of his time to buying, selling and shipping stock in connection with his other interests. With the exception of a small start in the beginning of his business career, he has made his own way in life and has met with excellent success that now places him among the prosperous and representative agriculturists of the community.

On December 20, 1879, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brubaker and Miss Emma Hoover, a daughter of Phillip and Elizabeth Hoover. They have one son, Leroy Brubaker, who received his education in the district schools and is being reared to farm life, assisting his father in his agricultural interests. Mr. Brubaker gives his political support to the democratic party, and although he has never sought nor desired office, he uses his influence at the polls in behalf of the candidates of his party. He is a public-spirited gentleman, and although his private business interests demand his time and attention, yet he is in hearty sympathy with and lends his cooperation to all movements and measures that have for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding of the community. Personally his undustry and perseverance have won him an enviable place among the agriculturists of the community and his business integrity and true worth of character have gained him many friends who entertain for him warm regard.

Allen Thomas

Allen Thomas, who exerts a telling influence in the commercial life of Ashland, as a member of the firm of Thomas, Myers & Wolf, lumber merchants, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, April 4, 1852, a son of John and Nancy (Piper) Thomas, natives of the Keystone state, who in childhood went with their parents to Wayne county where they were united in marriage, in 1862 removing to Ashland county, one year later permanently settling on a farm in Montgomery township where they spent their remaining days, Mr. Thomas departing this life in 1904, at the age of eighty-three years, while his wife, at the age of seventyfour years, entered into rest in 1899. Mr. Thomas was a republican in politics, loyal to his party throughout his life, and both he and his wife were faithful adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Allen Thomas spent his boyhood and youth at home under the attentive supervision of his parents, acquiring his education in the district schools. In the year 1875, leaving the parental roof, he began his business career, establishing himself in the stove and tinware business in partnership with James Polliek under the firm name of Thomas & Polliek, conducting the enterprise in this city. One year after the business had been founded Air. Polliek disposed of his interest to Mr. Grindle, a new partnership being then formed and the business ran along smoothly for one year when their establishment was destroyed by fire. Mr. Thomas and his partner then engaged in the restaurant business for one year, at the termination of which time Mr. Grindle sold his interest to Mr. Reep, with whom Air. Thomas conducted the business for six years under the firm name of Thomas & Reep, when again Mr. Thomas met with the misfortune of having his establishment destroyed by fire. Associated with his partner he rebuilt and started a grocery and queens ware business, which they conducted successfully for eleven years, selling out in 1894. They next purchased a sanitarium at Magnetic Springs, Ohio, which they operated until 1903, and after they disposed of it Mr. Thomas returned to this city where in March, 1906. in partnership with Jerry Wolf he purchased an interest in the lumber business of J. W. Myers & Company, at which time the firm was reorganized under the name of Thomas, Myers & Wolf, under which name they have since been doing business. It is one of the most important enterprises in the city, the company owning large lumber yards and planing mills and doing an extensive business throughout this and adjoining states. Among other enterprises with which Mr. Thomas is connected are the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company, of which he is a stockholder and director, and the Ashland Bank & Savings Company, being a stockholder and director in that institution. He is also one of the three men Avho own the patents on the block and cement mixing machines manufactured in Ashland.

On January 14, 1879, Mr. Thomas wedded Miss Katherine F. Reep, a nativt of this city and a daughter of Christian Reep, deceased, and to this union wert, born Grace and an infant, both now deceased. The republican party has always commanded the allegiance of Mr. Thomas, who takes quite an interest in local affairs and who served two terms as treasurer of Montgomery township and for three years as a member of the board of education of this city. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. 0. F. and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, being on the board of trustees of that organization. His keen business ability is recognized throughout the city, in developing the interests of which lie has taken an active part, and he justly merits the reputation he enjoys as one of its leading citizens.

Estey E. Miller

Esiey E. Miller, conducting an extensive and profitable business as a grain, hay and coal dealer at Nova, is also prominently identified with the financial interests of the town as president of the Nova Banking Company. His birth occurred in Troy township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the lltli of September,' 1878, his parents being Jonas S. and Mary A. (Swartz) Miller. The father, who was born in Eedliaw, Ashland county, April 15, 1849, was the eldest son of George and Christina Miller. In early childhood he accompanied his parents on their removal to Nova, this county, and with the exception of three years spent in Cleveland, Ohio, there continued to make his home until called to his final rest. On the Gtli of March, 1865, when less than sixteen years of age, he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company I, One Hundred and Ninetyfifth Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged some months later on account of illness. In later years he maintained pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in C. P. Ogden Post, No. o60, G. A. R. In preparation for a business career, he familiarized himself with the blacksmith s trade at West Salem. Ohio, and in 1871 located at Nova, where he engaged in bhieksmithing and carriage building until 1885, when he became a member of the Ohio Steel Thill Company. In 1896 he became the senior member of the firm of E. E. Miller & Company, dealers in grain and hay, and was a prominent factor in its successful control until the time of his death on the 4th of March. 1907. He was well known and highly esteemed throughout the northern portion of Ashland county and his efforts proved an effective element in the upbuilding and development of the town of Nova. He superintended the erection of the grain elevator at that place and for twenty years was a member of the Nova Cornet Band. In September. 1872, Jonas S. Miller was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary A. Swartz, of Redhaw. this county, and by this

Mr. And Mrs. Jonas Miller

After obtaining a good practical education in the public schools of Nova, Estey E. Miller took up the study of telegraphy and subsequently secured a position with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad at Conneaut, Ohio, where he remained for nine months. He then worked for the same railroad at Mentor, Ohio, for a period of eighteen months but at the end of that time resigned his position and in 1892 became identified with the mercantile interests of Nova as a dealer in grain, hay and coal. As the years have gone by he has built up a large and profitable trade in these commodities and is widely recognized as a most substantial, enterprising and representative business man of the community. Public-spirited and progressive in a marked degree, he soon realized that a bank was necessary to care for the business of the town and undertook the organization of such an institution. In the summer of 1907, as the result of his efforts, the Nova Banking Company was organized under the banking laws of the State of Ohio with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, its doors being opened for business on December 4th, of the same year. The home of the bank is a substantial and attractive brick building, equipped with every modern convenience, time locks, safety vaults, etc. The fact that the institution supplies a long felt want and is fully appreciated by the business men and farmers of the community, is attested by its ever increasing patronage. At the time of its organization Mr. Miller was elected president and has since continued as the chief executive officer of the bank, his keen discrimination, sound judgment and excellent management proving an important factor in its successful conduct. He was also active in founding the Nova Telephone Company, which was organized under the state laws in 1907 and has long distance connection with the Star and Bell companies. Mr. Miller capably served the company in the position of treasurer for some time.

On the I7th of October, 1895, Mr. Miller wedded Miss Ota M. Kosht, a daughter of Josiah and Adeline (Swartz) Kosht, of Troy township. By this union there are three children: Charles F., Beryl M., and Juanita E., aged twelve, ten and eight years respectively.

In his political views Mr. Miller is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust. He has been treasurer of Troy township for two terms and a member of the Nova school board for a number of years, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. At a party convention held at Ashland in 1906 he was nominated for the office of county auditor without his knowledge or consent, not being present at the convention. Notwithstanding the fact that this county has a strong democratic majority and that he made no personal effort to secure votes, he made an excellent showing at the polls, running far ahead of the ticket. Fraternally he is identified with Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. O. 0. F. He is a great lover of music and is a valued member of the Nova Cornet Band, which is a splendid organization of its kind. His gun and fishing rod also afford him much pleasure and recreation and he is an advocate of all manly outdoor sports. His many sterling traits of character have won him the warm regard and friendship of many with whom he has come in contact and he is widely recognized as a citizen whose efforts have contributed in large measure to the upbuilding and development of his native county along various lines.

Edmond Helbert

In the seventy-six years of a well spent life Edmond Helbert has so directed his efforts that he is now living retired in Jeromeville with a competence sufficient to supply him with all of the comforts of life. From his early childhood he has resided in Ashland county, arriving in Mohican township in 1835. He was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, on the 23d of September, 1833, so was only in his second year when his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Mock) Helbert, removed to this state. Their family numbered thirteen children, of whom he was the twelfth in order of birth. The parents were born and reared about thirty miles west of Philadelphia and after their marriage they removed to Bedford county, that state, where all of their children were born with the exception of their youngest, John Helbert, whose birth occurred in Ashland. Thinking to find better business oportunities in a less thickly settled district, the father removed with his family to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1835, and purchased a tract of land north of Mohicanville, where with characteristic energy he began the development and improvement of the farm. He built the first bank barn in Mohican township and his neighbors predicted that he would never raise enough crops to fill it, but his harvests the first year were more than sufficient to utilize the capacity thus afforded. With resolute purpose he undertook the task of cutting away the forest trees, picking out the stumps, burning the brush, turning the furrows and cultivating the land until the dense forest growth was replaced by fields of waving grain. His labors were continued without interruption until he had placed one hundred and sixty acres under a fine state of cultivation. He also bought one hundred and ten acres additional which he afterward gave to one of his sons. Both he and his wife reached advanced age, Jacob Ilelbert being ninety-one years of age at the time of his demise, while his wife died when eighty years of age. Their children were as follows: Marie, the deceased wife of John Newman; William, who was a twin brother of Marie and went to California in the spring of 1849, his death there occurring two years later; Jacob, deceased; Michael, living in Vermillion township; Rebecca, who became the wife of John G first and died in 1862; Peter, who died in June, 1908, at the age of eighty- four years in Jeromeville, where he was living retired; Ilettie. who married Jacob Waclitel and after his death became the wife of Charles Cosner; Henry, a resident of Ashland county; Sarah, who is the widow of Henry Waclitel and lives on the old home place; Levi, deceased; Edmond, of this review; and John, living in Havesville.

Arriving in Ashland county while yet an infant. Edmond Helbert has known no other home. His memory goes back to the time when there were many evidences of pioneer life here and his recollection covers the period when many homes were log cabins, when cooking was done over the fireplace and even to the time when kerosene lamps had not in very large measure supplanted tallow candles. He worked in the fields with his father through the period of his boyhood and youth and continued upon the home farm until eleven years after his marriage, cultivating the farm on shares. He then purchased a farm of eighty acres and now has one hundred and thirty-four acres about two miles north of Mohicanville on section 30, Mohican township. There he continuously engaged in general agricultural pursuits until 1901, when he removed to Jeromeville. The farm still pays to him a good tribute and in addition he owns five acres in the village upon which he has erected an attractive dwelling, being now most comfortably situated in life.

In March, 1865, Mr. Helbert was united in marriage to Miss Katharine Sumner, who was born in Lake township, Ashland county, July 23, 1843, and is a daughter of Clement and Elizabeth (Underwood) Sumner, natives of Vermont and Pennsylvania, respectively. With their parents they came to Ohio in their childhood days and were married in Lake township. There the death of Mrs. Sumner occurred and later Mr. Sumner removed to Liverpool, Medina county, Ohio, where he died. They were the parents of five children : Mrs. Helbert ; Phoebe, who is the widow of Samuel Millen, a resident of Kansas; Seneca, who died in Kansas ; Rebecca, who died in Lake township at the age of fourteen years ; and Solon, residing in the state of New York. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Helbert have been born four children, but the first two, Mary Elizabeth and Laura Etta, died of scarlet fever about the same time, the former at the age of seven and the latter when five years old. Clement W. died at the age of one year. Adam Augustus, the only surviving child, is now a representative farmer of this county. He married Dema Seigler, who died leaving one son, Guy Eugene, and after her death Adam Augustus Helbert wedded Lilly Hossinger, by whom he has two children, Ruth Pauline and Mildred Irene.

Mr. and Mrs. Edmond Helbert are members of the Reformed church of Mohicanville and his political support is given to the democracy. His life has been well spent and has been crowned with a substantial measure of success. This is evident in the fact that he is now the owner of a valuable farm property on which are large, fine buildings, while everything about the place is indicative of the thrift of the owner.

Charles M. And Edgar J. Roiin

Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn, who are successfully engaged in farming, stock raising and dairying in Orange township, are worthy representatives of a prominent and well known pioneer family of this county. The birth of Charles M. Rohn occurred February 21, 1876, and his brother. Edgar .J., first opened his eyes to the light of day on the 29th of November, 1877. The paternal grandfather, Charles Rohn, was born in 1802 and in 1839 made his way from Pennsylvania to Ashland county, Ohio, settling on tin* farm which is now the home of his grandsons. Throughout his active business career he followed farming and stock raising and his demise occurred in September, 1888. His son, William A. Rohn, who was born August 22, 1841, wedded Miss Ophelia C. Miller and was called to his final rest on the 18th of September, 1906. Like his father he was prominently and successfully identified with the pursuits of farming and stock-raising, being numbered among the substantial and progressive citizens of the community. He is still survived by his widow, two sons and two daughters, the latter being Mary E. and Ina M., the wife of John Alsdorf.

Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn were educated in the district schools and have always resided on and cultivated the old homestead farm. It comprises one hundred and eighty-seven and a half acres of rich and productive land, splendidly improved and equipped with all modern conveniences to facilitate the work of the fields. Here the brothers are carrying on farming, stock-raising and dairying and in all of these undertakings are meeting with success, owing to their keen business discernment, untiring energy and capable management.

On the 17th of August, 1907, Charles M. Rohn was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Melching, a daughter of August and Anna M. (Satler) Melching, of Milton township.

Both Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn give their political allegiance to the democracy and take an active and helpful interest in the local work of the party, favoring all movements and measures instituted to promote the general welfare. Fraternally they are connected with Mohican Lodge No. 85, I. 0. 0. F., while their religious faith is indicated by their membership in the Trinity Lutheran church. Their lives have been characterized by industry, honesty and integrity in all relations and they have fully sustained the honorable record made by their grandfather and father. They are moreover young men of genial, cordial disposition and are prominent in social circles of the community, the circle of their friends being almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintances.

George W. Garst

George W. Garst carries on general farming on section 21, Mohican township. having there three hundred and nineteen acres of land in one tract. His place is three miles southeast of Jeromeville and in its further development and improvement his time is fully occupied, with the result that the property constitutes a valuable investment, returning to him a gratifying annual income. Mr. Garst was born in Mohieanville on the 13th of May, 1850, and was only a year old when his father removed to a small farm a half mile west of the village. His parents were John and Rebecca (Helbert) Garst. The former was born in Alsace. France, in 1820, and when eleven years of age sailed to New York with his parents. The family first settled in Pennsylvania, but the parents both died in the metropolis of cholera a few datys after their arrival in the new world. The five children then continued the journey to the Keystone state, making their way to the home of friends who had previously resided in the same locality with them in the fatherland. John Garst arrived in Jeromeville, Ohio, when about fifteen years of age and there learned the trade of blacksmithing, after which he removed to Mohieanville, where he was employed by others until he was able to buy a shop and begin business for himself. He conducted his smithy in Mohicanville for a time and also on his farm just west of the town where he remained most of his active life. He was one of the first men to be drafted for service in the civil war, but feeling that he could not leave his family and business he sent a substitute. As the years passed he prospered in his undertaking and became a money lender, handling large amounts for others. In fact he did a regular private banking business and for a considerable period invested extensively in land, buying and selling. At one time he had over six hundred acres but gave to his children, for whom he made generous provision. When he arrived in this county his clothing was of a very cheap quality and his actual capital consisted of only three or four dollars. His success proves conclusively what may be accomplished by earnest, indefatigable labor and judicial investment. In business matters his judgment was seldom, if ever, at fault and his success followed as a logical sequence to his persistent effort. He died near Mohicanville in 1904 at the age of eighty-four years. He was not a member of a church but regularly attended the services of the Methodist Episcopal and the Reformed churches at Mohicanville and contributed generously to their support. In politics he was a democrat and held various township offices, yet frequently refused to serve as he cared more to devote his attention to business affairs than to receive the honors of office. His first wife was a native of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and came to Ashland county in her childhocfd with her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Helbert. The Helberts were a prominent pioneer family of this county, of whom extended mention is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert on another page of this work. The death of Mrs. Garst occurred in 1862, when she was forty-two years of age. The children of that marriage were: William, living in Fulton county, Ohio; George W., of this review; Phoebe, now deceased, who was the wife of George Obrecht and after his death married Charles McLaughlin ; Elizabeth, the wife of W. E. Paullin ; Rebecca, the wife of George Glasener of Vermillion township; and Mary, who died at the age of sixteen years. Having lost his first wife the father married Margaret Wallace and they have three children : Belle, the wife of George Maurer of Texas ; Dora the wife of Peter Helbert, who is living on the old homestead of his father-in-law in Mohican township ; and Della, the wife of James J. Welch, of Loudonville.

Upon his father's farm about a half mile west of Mohicanville, George W. Garst spent his youthful days, indulging in the sports common to the lads of the interior and also dividing his time between the work of the schoolroom and of the fields. He remained upon the old home farm until thirty years of age. After putting aside his text-books he gave his attention to the task of plowing, planting and harvesting and also assisted his father in the blacksmith shop. Following his marriage he lived for two years on an adjoining farm at the edge of Mohicanville and in 1882 came to his present place, which he had purchased the previous year. Here he has since resided and the evidence of his active life is seen in his well developed farm. He at first purchased two hundred and twenty-eight acres but has since extended the boundaries of his place until it now comprises three hundred and nineteen acres all in one body. It is situated on section 16 and 21, Mohican township. He has a splendid set of farm buildings upon it which were erected by Mr. Garst. His home is a commodious and beautiful residence, built in modern style of architecture and in the rear is a large bank barn and other outbuildings necessary for the shelter of grain and stock. He devotes his attention to general agricultural pursuits and raises good grades of horses, cattle and hogs. The capable management which he displays in carrying on his farm work has brought to him a creditable measure of success. In addition to his home property he has two hundred and three acres in Plain township, Wayne county, which is operated by his son-inlaw. He also owns a section of land in Carson county, Texas. As the years have gone by he has thus prospered and his realty holdings are now extensive, while he derives therefrom a substantial annual income.

In 1880 Mr. Garst was united in marriage to Miss Katie Butler who was born in Holmes county, Ohio, September 13, 1858, and is a daughter of James and Margaret (Ullerich) Butler. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Garst have been born seven children who are yet living and they also lost one in infancy. Those who still survive are : Charles B., of Reedsburg, Ohio, who was born November 22, 1882, and married Blanche Lucas; Walter, a resident of Mohican township, who was born December 13, 1883, and married Florence Moon, by whom he has one son, Harry; Paul, a resident of Mohican township, and was born October 23, 1885, and married Carrie Garn, by whom he has two children, George W. and Katharine; Fern, who was born January 5, 1888, and is the wife of T. R. Garn, living on her father's farm in Plain township; Flossie May, who was born May 5, 1890, and is at home ; Robert, who was born September 17, 1893, and is yet under the parental roof ; and Essie, who was born September 12, 1897, and completes the family.

Mr. and Mrs. Garst have a most hospitable home and delight in entertaining their many friends. They are prominent and influential people in the community and enjoy the warm regard of all with whom business or social relations have brought them in contact. Mr. Garst is a democrat in his political views and has served as school director for thirteen years but otherwise has held no public office. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity in Jeromeville and is in sympathy with the beneficent spirit of that order. A lifelong resident of the county, his many good qualities are known to his fellowmen and he is classed with the foremost representatives of agricultural interests here.

Ellsworth G. Welch

Ellsworth G. Welch is engaged in general farming in Orange township. He likewise raises sheep and deals in wool and he possesses, moreover, considerable mechanical ingenuity, which has been manifest in the production of several valuable inventions. He was born April 15, 1861, in the township where he yet resides, his parents being Johnson and Emeline (Buchanan) Welch. His grandfather, Ephraim Welch, was one of the early settlers of Ashland county, arriving in 1828 from Washington county, Pennsylvania. He was the father of four sons and two daughters: James M., John, Johnson, Rankin, Catharine and Mary Jane, all of whom became prosperous and influential citizens of the communities in which they lived. Johnson, was a large landowner and a breeder of Delaine sheep, being recognized as an authority on the matter of sheep raising. He was energetic and determined in his business affairs and the qualities which he displayed in all lines of life made him highly respected. His integrity was unassailable and his energy constituted the basis of a very gratifying success. In his farming operations he kept everything about his place in excellent condition and "raised only high grades of stock. He died October 26, 1886, at the age of fifty-five years and his remains were interred in the Nankin cemetery. He is still survived by his widow, a most estimable lady, who enjoys the warm regard of all who know her. In their family were seven children: Eugene B., Ellsworth G., Etta L., Frank L., Mary J., Herman B. and Royal J.

Mr. Welch, whose name introduces this record, spent his youth on his father's farm and after attending the common schools continued his education in the Polk high school and in Ashland College, while subsequently he spent four terms in Oberlin College. He was thus afforded excellent educational privileges, well qualifying him for life's practical and responsible duties. He has since given his attention to farming and stock raising and his business interests have been so capably conducted that he is now numbered among the prosperous residents of this part of the county. His fields produce good crops and in his pastures are seen high grades of stock. He makes a specialty of raising sheep and dealing in wool, handling the Delaine sheep, which are excellent wool producers. He has followed farming continuously since his marriage and in 1900 he took up his abode upon the place where he' now lives, known as the "Old Ricket" farm. He has given considerable attention to the matter of metal roofing and his inventive turn of mind has resulted in giving to the wTorld several valuable mechanical devices, including an approved rural mail box, which has had a good sale. He has patented a corrugated roofing device, by which a large saving in material is secured and leaks prevented over the laps. He is a man of unfaltering industry and marked energy and accomplishes whatever he undertakes.

On the 22d of April, 1899, Mr. Welch was united in marriage to Miss Bertha P. Porter, a daughter of Giles and Mary J. (Urie) Porter. Her father was a native of the state of New York and for a time was engaged in business in Ashland, where he was married. The Uries were an early family of this county and the grandfather, George W. Urie, who came from Pennsylvania in pioneer times, settled in Richland county. There he was prominent in public affairs and took an active part in promoting the development and shaping the public policy of that district. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Giles Porter removed to Geneseo, Illinois, and Mrs. Welch was there born. She lost her mother when quite young but her father is still living at Fairfield, Illinois, having sometime since retired from mercantile business and is now a prosperous farmer and fruit grower. Mr. and Mrs. Welch now have three children: Florence L., Donald M. and Marshall Johnson. They also lost one child, their firstborn, in infancy.

In politics Mr. Welch is a stalwart republican and has been urged to become a candidate for office by his fellow townsmen, who recognize the worth and value of his citizenship. In 1897 his party made him its candidate for representative, but he was defeated although he ran ahead of his ticket for Ashland is a strong democratic center. His wife is a member of the Eastern Star. Their home is one of refinement and culture, where good literature is greatly enjoyed. They occupy a prominent position in the social circles, where intelligence is regarded as a necessary attribute to congeniality. Their own home is most hospitable and is always open for the reception of their many friends. Mr. Welch takes a firm stand in support of public improvements and his advocacy thereof is not one of words but of works. When he sees a public or private need he at once attempts to meet it and his patriotism, his high ideal of citizenship and the substantial qualities which he shows in every walk of life have gained him recognition as one of the honored and valued residents of the county.

William H. Huff

William H. Huff is numbered among the honored veterans of the Civil war and also among the progressive farmers of Lake township, where he devotes his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and stock raising. His natal day was July 15, 1832, while the place of his birth was a farm about a mile southeast of Mohicanville, in Lake township, Ashland county. His parents were Peter and Rose Ann (Loer) Huff, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, in which state they were reared and married. Peter Huff lost his mother when he was quite young and the father afterward bound out the boy to a man by the name of Wright, who came to Ashland county, Ohio, and entered one hundred and sixty acres of land for Mr. Huff when he should become of age. The latter built a cabin upon the tract, then returned to Pennsylvania and was married, after which he brought his bride to Ohio the following spring, their remaining days being spent here. Mr. Huff cleared his land, which was covered with a native forest growth when it came into his possession. Cutting down the trees he grubbed up the stumps and prepared the fields for cultivation, so that in time he gathered rich harvests as the reward of his labors. He placed under cultivation nearly the entire tract of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 4, Lake township. He lived a busy and useful life and died at the age of seventy-two years, while his wife passed away at the age of sixty-eight years. Her parents attained a remarkable old age, her father dying in Pennsylvania at the age of one hundred and one years, while the mother died in the same state as a centenarian. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Huff were six children : Samuel, a resident of Cheriton, Virginia ; Mary Elizabeth, who is the widow of Anthony Stentz and lives in Lake township ; Sarah, who makes her home with her brother, William, and is the widow of Jacob Parker, who died while serving in the Union army; Edward W., who died in childhood ; William H. ; and Martha, the wife of George Ryland, of Mansfield.

William H. Huff And Family

William H. Huff was reared as a farm boy and has given his entire life to general agricultural pursuits. He now has a farm of seventy-five acres, which is a part of his father's original quarter section. Practically the only interruption that has come to his work in the fields was when in the spring of 1864 he enlisted for service as a member of Company I, One Hundred and Sixtythird Ohio Volunteer Infantry, joining the command on the 2d of May. He was first with the militia but later went out with the army of the Potomac in response to the call for troops to serve for one hundred days, at the expiration of which time he was honorably discharged. On his return he resumed his farm work and has since diligently managed the property and cultivated its fields, having a good farm which is improved with substantial buildings. He also operated a sawmill in the early days. It was a water-power mill which was conducted by "his father and later by himself, and he also operated a cider mill with water power. His brother Samuel owned and operated the Mohican Woolen Mills, at Mohicanville, but subsequently traded that property for the farm in Virginia whereon he resided for some time but he is now living in Cheriton, Virginia.

On the 9th of September, 1869, Mr. Huff was united in marriage to Miss May Horn, who was born in Lake township, July 20, 1843, and has always lived in this neighborhood. She is a daughter of Jacob and Katharine (Hans) Horn, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Germany. They were married, however, in this county and spent their remaining days within its borders. Their family numbered six daughters and three sons. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Huff was blessed with five children : Lydia, now the wife of Sylvanus Coble, of Vermillion township, by whom she has one child, Ethel; Lucy, the wife of George Moore, of Wadsworth; Rilla, the wife of Ed. Kittering, of Green township, by whom she has three children, Wayland, Owen and Grace; Anna, at home ; and Edward.

Mr. Huff gives his political support to the republican party and thoroughly understands the questions and issues of the day, but does not desire office as he prefers to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. He has served as school director and judge of election. He labors diligently and persistently in the cultivation of his fields and the improvement of his farm and his work is meeting with substantial results in good harvests that bring him a gratifying annual income.

William S. Hoover

William S. Hoover, carrying on general farming on what is known as the old Hoover homestead, was born in this state, November 24, 1865, the only child of David and Sarah Elizabeth (Hazlett) Hoover. The father was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, July 29, 1827, and the mother on the 22d of April, 1833, in Ashland county, Ohio. Their marriage was here celebrated February 2, 1865. David Hoover, with limited education, had commenced business life as a farmer. He had come to Ohio with his parents when eight years of age and when old enough started to work for others, for his father had been unfortunate in sustaining heavy losses by trying to assist others in a financial way. The son was therefore obliged to become self-dependent at an early age but he soon displayed the elemental strength and force of his character and his sound judgment and unfaltering energy enabled him to forge ahead and in due time gain a position among the men of affluence in this county. About 1869 he purchased his first farm comprising ninety-six acres, and later added forty acres to his possessions and his son, William S., now resides on this farm. He was recognized as a man of force who wielded a wide influence. His conduct in every relation of life won him the respect and good will of those with whom he was associated and he was looked upon as one of Ashland county 's most noble and honorable men. While he gave close attention to his own business affairs, he was ever ready to lend a helping hand to others or to assist in any movement for the public good. Although he was ever a strong democrat, he never aspired to political office but supported his party at the polls. His religious faith was in harmony with the teachings of the Lutheran church. He died April 30, 1898, after an illness of about four years, and Ashland county mourned the loss of a worthy and valued citizen.

William S. Hoover was reared upon the old home farm and has always carried on general agricultural pursuits. He remained under the parental roof and cared for his parents in sickness and in health, and is still displaying the utmost filial love and devotion for his mother. On the 5th of June, 1890, he was united in marriage to Miss Laura A. Long, who was born in Lake township, this county, May 16, 1862, a daughter of George W. Long, and they have one daughter, Mabel S., who was born May 13, 1891, and is now in school in Ashland.

Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are both enthusiastic church members. In politics Mr. Hoover is an earnest democrat, and is active as a party worker, although not an aspirant for office. He does all in his power, however, to further the interests of his friends who seek political preferment. He has frequently been called upon to serve on the county jury and once on the federal jury. He prefers, however, at all times to concentrate his energies upon his business interests in connection with the management and control of his farm, and while his life has been in a measure quietly and uneventfully passed, he stands for those things which work for good citizenship and for the best interests of the community at large.

William Noggle

Ashland county is one of the rich farming districts of Ohio and among its borders are many valuable tracts of land highly cultivated. Among the fine farms of Mohican township is that owned by William Noggle, who resides on section 9. He has altogether two hundred and five acres of rich land on sections 8 and 9 and the place is pleasantly and conveniently situated about a mile south of Jeromeville on the Mohicanville road. His attention is devoted to general farming and stock-raising and both branches of his business are proving profitable. It was in the township where he now resides that William Noggle was born on the 22d of January, 1841, his parents being William and Eliza (Ritter) Noggle, both of whom were natives of Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and spent their last days in Ashland county, Ohio. The father died October 16, 1888, at the age of eighty-five years, eight months and eight days, while the mother died January 11, 1889, at the age of seventy-nine years, one month and twenty-nine days. They were married in the Keystone state and arrived in Ashland county about 1832, establishing their home on the farm in Mohican township which was their place of abode until called to their final rest. The father had over three hundred acres of rich and valuable land and was known as one of the leading and representative agriculturists of the community. He gave unfaltering political support to the democratic party, sought to enhance its success and for four or five terms capably served as township assessor. His religious faith was that of the Methodist church and his life was one of unfaltering honor and integrity. His wife, too, possessed equally commendable traits of character, molding her daily actions by her Christian faith. In their family were, eight children: Mary Ann, living in Lake county, Ohio; Margaret, the wife of

Thomas Wilson, who died in Missouri; John, who served for about one year in the Civil war and died in Crestline, Ohio; William; Malinda, the widow of Thomas Sproll and a resident of Iowa ; Harriett, the wife of Frank Ridgley, of Ashland ; Joseph, living in California ; and Eliza, the wife of Joseph Carnes, of Wyandot county, Ohio.

William Noggle was reared under the parental roof and the experiences of his boyhood were similar to those of most farm lads, who are instructed in thfc work of the fields as well as in the lessons to be learned in the schoolroom. His leisure hours were devoted to the sports and games in which the boys of the period usually indulged and when about twenty-three years of age he went to the far west, spending three and a half years in mining and in ranching in Idaho and Montana. He then returned to Ohio, was married and has since lived in Ashland county, devoting his energies to general farming. At the time of the Civil war he put aside business and personal considerations to espouse the Union cause, enlisting in the spring of 1861 at the first call for troops, joining Company B, of the Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was sent to West Virginia and to Maryland where he saw active service for three months. On the expiration of that period he returned home and went to the west, as previously stated. For more than forty years, however, he has continuously engaged in farming in this county and with two hundred and five acres of land under cultivation his time is fully occupied for he keeps his farm in an excellent state of improvement. There are two sets of good buildings upon it and everything about the place is kept in good repair. It presents a most attractive appearance and its proximity to Jeromeville enables the family to easily obtain the advantages offered in city life. He carries on general farming and stock raising and in his pastures are seen good grades of horses, cattle and hogs, while the fields bring forth rich harvests.

On the 31st of October, 1867, Mr. Noggle was married to Miss Nancy Craig, who was born in Vermillion township, this county, July 2, 1837, a daughter of

William and Barbara (Whittington) Craig, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in Westmoreland county. The mother made the journey to Ohio on horseback and they were married in Ashland county, where they spent their remaining days. Both passed away in Vermillion township, the former on the 15th of October, 1888, when he had reached the age of seventy-six years and seventeen days, while the latter died August 29, 1893, at the age of seventy-nine years and ten days. They were the parents of ten children, who reached adult age, namely: Mrs. Noggle; Polly, the wife of James K. Winbigler, of Jeromeville; James, living in Mansfield, Ohio; Elizabeth, who is the widow of Thomas Glenn and resides in Mohican township ; Ansabilla, the wife of James A. Raison, of Ashland; Myra Bell, the deceased wife of John Roby ; Martha Ann, the wife of Franklin Leader, a resident of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio ; Alice, the wife of Edwin Heiser, a resident of Jeromeville ; Emma, the wife of Anson Leopole, a resident of Loudonville ; and William Henry, of Mansfield, Ohio. The grandfather of Mrs. Noggle was William Craig, a native of Ireland, while the maternal grandfather was James Whittington, who was born in Scotland. He married Elizabeth Firecoats, also a native of Scotland, their marriage, however, being celebrated in Pennsylvania.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Noggle was blessed with a daughter and son, Barbara Eldora, the wife of Thomas Beard, of Jeromeville ; and William H., also living in Jeromeville.

Mr. Noggle gives his political allegiance to the democracy and is recognized as one of its local leaders, taking an active part in its work and doing all in his power to secure its success. He served as county commissioner for two terms and was a trustee of Mohican township for two terms. His official duties have ever been discharged in a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to his constituents. He held membership in Jeromeville Post, G. A. R., belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, and he and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church in which he is serving as a trustee. In his religious faith has been found the incentive for the upright life which he has lived. His word is as good as any bond ever solemnized by signature or seal and he has never been known to take advantage of the necessity of another in any business transaction. His record has at all times been upright and honorable, winning for him the merited regard in which he is uniformly held.

Sidney S. Bolles

Sidney S. Bolles, one of Ashland county's pnblic-spirited citizens and a worthy representative of its agricultural interests, has lived upon his present farm in Orange township since 1886. He was born in Jackson township, this county. May 4, 1851, and is a son of Lafayette and Phidelia (Stevens) Bolles, both of whom were natives of Ohio, the father's birth having occurred in Geauga county, while the mother was born in Lisbon, this state. In 1848 they removed to Ashland county, establishing their home in Jackson township and in 1859 went to Wisconsin. After a brief residence there, however, they removed to Tennessee in 1860 and subsequently returned to Ohio, settling in Ashtabula county where they spent two years. On the expiration of that period they came to Ashland county, where Mr. Bolles remained until his demise. He was a carpenter and farmer, giving his life to industrial as well as agricultural pursuits. He died October 21, 1899, while his wife passed away in 1898. Their substantial qualities had gained them high regard and caused their death to be regretted by many who knew them.