Ashland City (part 29 of 57)

The paternal grandparents of our subject were Benjamin and Martha Brubaker, both natives of the Keystone state. Among their children was Peter Brubaker, also born in Pennsylvania in 1804, and there he was married about

1827 to Katharine Albert, a native of Lancaster county, that state, where her birth occurred in 1809. Peter Brubaker was reared to agricultural pursuits under his father, and at an early date located in Ashland county, Ohio, on a tract of land embracing one hundred and sixty acres, all of which was overgrown with timber. He was among the pioneers of this part of the state by whose energy the land was cleared and transformed into the fertile fields which are seen today. With the assistance of his son George he erected his first dwelling, which was a log cabin, and cleared his land, putting it under cultivation. Here he spent his remaining days. When he first became interested in politics he voted on the side of the whigs, but later changed his political views and supported the democratic party during the candidacy of James Buchanan for president, whose personal friend he was, the two having been reared in the same county. As to his religious convictions, he accepted the faith common in that section of the Keystone state and was affiliated with that denomination of Christians known as the Mennonites. He reared a family of twelve children, four of whom survive, namely: Katherine Brubaker Hiller; George; Barbara Brubaker Root; and Amos.

George Brubaker was reared on his father's farm, in the meantime taking advantage of the neighboring schools where he obtained his education. He remained under the parental roof until he was twenty-four years of age, when he started out in the world for himself and engaged in working a farm on shares for about ten years, at the termination of which period he purchased a tract of land containing ninety-two acres. Subsequently he purchased an additional twenty-seven acres, most of this land having been cleared, and upon it he made such improvements as to facilitate the occupation of farming. At the end of fifteen years he disposed of it and purchased another farm containing one hundred and sixty-eight acres, which he still owns and which is located two miles west of the village of Ashland. Here he carried on general agriculture together with stock raising until 1902, when he removed to Ashland, where he now lives in retirement. He also dealt in live stock in connection with his other business.

In 1856 Mr. Brubaker was united in mhrriage to Miss Sarah Cotner, whose birth occurred here in 1828, and to this union have been born twelve children, all of whom are living and received their educations at the Ashland high school, namely: John Wesley; Peter; Jacob, Ettie Brubaker McCarty; Norma Brubaker Eby ; George Washington; Lottie Brubaker Hoik; Harley C. ; Ida May; Albert; Emma; and Katherine. Mr. and Mrs. Brubaker also have twenty-four grandchildren, so far no deaths having occurred in the family. In 1901 the Brubaker family established an annual reunion which they have since continued and the assembly on these occasions being large are, needless to say, interesting and looked forward to by the several members of the family as the chief event of the year.

The democratic party has always receive^ Mr. Brubaker's vote, as he is a stanch believer in the wisdom of its policies, and since casting his first vote for Buchanan he has not found cause for leaving his party. From 1888 to 1895 he served as county commissioner, holding the office for two terms and a year extra by appointment. He belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the

Free and Accepted Masons, and is also a member of that denomination of Christians known as the Disciples of Christ. Being a man whose enterprising spirit has greatly added to the financial worth of the community he is accounted one of the county's most worthy and substantial citizens.

Michael Frangkiser

Michael Frangkiser has now passed the seventy-first milestone on life's journey and at the present writing, in 1909, is living retired in the enjoyment of well earned and well merited rest. He was long closely and prominently associated with the business interests of Loudonville, having for twenty-four years been engaged in the hardware trade here. Liberal, enterprising and energetic in all his transactions he so controlled his business interests that year after year he was able to add to his savings, making his present rest from business possible. He was born at Ludwigs Winkel, near Bermingsentz in Rhenish Bavaria, October 20, 1837, a son of John §nd Katharine (Winkler) Frangkiser, both of whom were natives of that country. The father died when his son Michael was but ten years of age and the boy afterward came to America with his widowed mother and a half-brother, Peter Yachey, in 1851. They did not tarry on the eastern coast but made their way direct to Loudonville, where they joined Jacob Mosier, a half-brother of Mr. Frangkiser, who had been here for five years.

Mr. Frangkiser has resided in or near Loudonville since that time, covering a period of more than fifty-seven years. He spent nine years in agricultural pursuits, being employed for seven years by others after which he carried on farming on his own account for two years. Then taking up his abode in the town, he purchased an interest in a grocery business and operated in that line for eight years, when he turned his attention to the hardware trade and for twenty-four years was engaged in that line. During the first eleven years he was the junior partner of the firm of Priest & Frangkiser but afterward was alone in business and conducted a well equipped establishment which brought to him gratifying success. He made careful purchases, was reasonable in his prices, and by his straightforward dealing and unfailing courtesy he secured a liberal patronage. Thus year by year he prospered until he was at length enabled to retire from active life. He has made judicious investments in property, being now the owner of real estate in the town and also of a small farm to which he gives his personal supervision. For the past twenty-five years he has resided on Butler street, in Loudonville, and about five years ago erected his present home. In 1860 Mr. Frangkiser was married to Miss Magdalena Lorentz, who was born at Birlenbach, a little village in Alsace, April 19, 1841. She was a daughter of Jacob Lorentz, whose birth occurred November 28, 1815, at Griess, in the canton of Brumath, arondissement of Strasburg, department Bas Rhine, Alsace, his parents being Andrew and Maria (Hickel) Lorentz. He was confirmed March 29, 1829. On the 28th of July, 1840, he married Miss Salomea Gassman, a daughter of Michael and Margaret (Roe)

Gassman, in the village of Birlenbaeh, canton of Loultz, Alsace, and in 1844 they emigrated to America. After about a year they removed from Erie county, New York, to Holmes county, Ohio, and unto them were born nine children, four sons and five daughters. The wife and two of the children passed away before the death of Mr. Lorentz, which occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Michael Frangkiser, March 4, 1902. He was a man of many good qualities and his death was deeply regretted by his friends and family.

Mrs. Frangkiser was only four years of age when her parents came to the new world and located on a farm near Glenmont, in Holmes county, Ohio, while subsequently they made their home on a farm between Lakeville and Nashville, Ohio. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Frangkiser have been born five children: John, living in Mansfield ; Amelia, who is the widow of Winfield Bartlet, a resident of Loudonville ; Delphina, the wife of William Schauweker, of Loudonville ; Charles, deceased ; and Edward, also of this place.

During the long years of his residence in and near Loudonville Mr. Frangkiser has ever taken a deep and active interest in matters pertaining to the general welfare, giving his support to many measures for the public good. He has served as a member of the city council and as township appraiser, but whether in office or out of it he is always loyal to the best interests of the community. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and he is a member of Zion Lutheran church. His life has been actuated by high and honorable principles and has marked a close conformity with his religious belief.

Philpot Curran Cowen

The name of Cowen has figured in connection with the history of Ashland county from pioneer times. Of Irish ancestry, the first of the name in America were David and Mellie (Reed) Cowen, who emigrated from Downpatrick, in County Down, Ireland, to the United States in 1801, accompanied by their sons, Joseph and David. They were believers in Irish independence as promulgated by Napper Tandy and the Society of the United Irishmen, sympathizing with Washington and Napoleon in their struggles against hereditary monarchy. They landed at New Castle, Delaware, and settled on a farm near Oxford, Chester county, Pennsylvania. There the son, David Cowen, Jr., married Elizabeth Hood and located on a farm where he spent his remaining days. His son, Washington Cowen, removed to Millersburg, Holmes county, Ohio, where he married Eliza Lemon. They were the parents of John Kissig Cowen, an eminent railroad lawyer and president of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.

The other son, Joseph Cowen, who had married Ellen Allison in Ireland, remained on a farm in the neighborhood of his parents and his brother David, near Oxford, for twelve years, when he removed to Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, and settled on a farm near Pittsburg in 1813. In the fall of 1831 he came to Ashland county in a Conestoga wagon drawn by four horses, and settled on the farm now owned and occupied by his grandson, Philpot C. Cowen. He was accompanied on this journey by his wife and daughters, Rachel, Jane,

Sarah and Mary, and his sons, George and William. His other children, John ; Margaret, the wife of David Boice; and Sophia, the wife of James Kelsey, remained in Pittsburg until the following year, when they came to Green township and settled on adjoining farms, but John afterward went south with the intention of going to New Orleans by way of the rivers and \\yis never heard from again.

William Cowen was the second son and fourth child of Joseph and Ellen (Allison) Cowen, who were married near Downpatrick, Ireland, and landed at New Castle, Delaware, in 1801, their eldest child, Margaret, being then a year old. William Cowen was born near Oxford, Chester county, Pennsylvania, February 16, 1809, and when four years old accompanied his parents across the Alleghanies and for nineteen years was a resident of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. The father was in limited circumstances and lived on many called Coal Hill for a term of three years, at an annual cash rent, but unable to pay this he gave up the farm the second year and the landlord took all his chattels. To escape imprisonment for debt he took advantage of what was called the Insolvent Debtors Act, which allowed the debtor his liberty upon his taking oath that all his property was turned over and that he would do all in his power to discharge the indebtedness. Eventually Mr. Cowen satisfied all of his creditors.

William Cowen, like the other members of the family, was early thrown upon his own resources, and from the age of twelve years earned his own living. He did not have the opportunity to attend school for more than three months altogether. With a flail he threshed the harvest of 1831, amounting to three hundred bushels of wheat, which was sold in Pittsburg at sixty cents a bushel. With this money and their household goods the family started for Ohio. In those early days the settlers were hospitable and cheerfully aided the traveler as he wended his way through the forests, over new roads, to hew out for himself a farm in the midst of the forest. The landlord of the wayside tavern permitted them to cook over his fire and gave them lodging for a nominal fee. The first house the family occupied in Ohio was a cabin on the Manner, farm near Newville, Richland county, in which they lived from October 31, 1831, until January, 1832, when they took up their abode on a farm in Green township, where the father died. This quarter section was purchased from William Taylor, who held it by certificate of purchase from the general government. The purchase price was five hundred dollars, of which two hundred and fifty dollars was paid in cash, and in addition to that he gave him the two horses and the wagon which had been used in moving westward, leaving an unpaid balance of one hundred dollars.

William Cowen gave stalwart support to the democratic party until 1876 when, opposing the resumption of specie payment as advocated by the democratic party, he voted for R. B. Hayes as president and afterward gave his allegiance to the republican party at state and national elections, but cast an independent ballot at township and county elections. In April, 1839, he was chosen constable of Green township and at the end of his first term of two years was reelected. Imprisonment for debt was then in vogue and was often re- sorted to. In his own words : ' 1 Times were hard, money scarce, and occasionally I had one hundred executions against residents of my township, my costs amounting in a year to one thousand dollars, about one-third of which was collected. * ' After serving as constable Mr. Cowen began to practice law before justice courts and was regularly admitted to the bar September 29, 1848, at Mansfield. He always remained on a farm and operated his fields but was often engaged in trying suits before justices. In these trials he met a number of the eminent members of the bar of this part of the state. In April, 1861, he was elected assessor of Green township, and in April, 1862, was chosen justice of the peace and was twice reelected. At the October election in 1865 he was chosen commissioner of Ashland county and by reelection served for six years. He contributed generously to the building and support of churches and believed in liberality and humanity, and that any creed which deprived a human being of a single right, or took from him a single quality of mercy which society could safely give him was inhuman and cruel and unworthy of human sanction.

On the 24th of March, 1855, William Cowen wedded Mary Comer, daughter of John and Anna (Newkirk) Comer. She was born in Clinton township, Wayne' county, Ohio, December 11, 1822. Her parents were Virginians. Her paternal grandfather, Samuel Comer, removed to the Northwest Territory in 1801, and was a resident of Pickaway county when Ohio was admitted to the Union. Her maternal grandfather, Tunis Newkirk, was a slave owner and the owner of a large estate in Berkeley county, Virginia, of which he disposed and then entered an extensive tract of land near Lancaster, Ohio, about 1805. When about eighteen years of age Mrs. Cowen united with the Baptist church at Loudon ville and soon after her marriage became a member of the Greentowi. Baptist church. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cowen were born six children, of whom three died in infancy, while one daughter, Frances, who was born March 14, 1866, became the wife of Marion Reed, a prominent practicing attorney of Mansfield, on the 11th of August, 1890, and died October 8, 1892. The surviving members of the family are: Mrs. Naomi Jane Boyd, who resides near Brownlee, Saskatchewan, Canada ; and Philpot C. The father died August 15, 1890, and the mother passed away April 25, 1908. Their genuine personal worth and many splendid traits of character won them the love and esteem of all who knewT them, and causes their memory to be cherished by their surviving children and friends.

Philpot C. Cowen was born on the farm about a mile northeast of Perrysville, August 6, 1856, and has always resided here save for three years which he spent in the practice of law in Loudonville. He completed his literary education in Greentown Academy and took up the study of law under Judge Manuel May, in Mansfield, in 1876, being admitted to the bar in 1878. In the spring of that year he opened an office in Ashland but soon afterward his father prevailed upon him to return home, loaning him money that he might make a start in farm work. In 1887, however, he went to Loudonville, where he engaged in the practice of law for three years, but upon the death of his father, in 1890, he returned to the home farm and has since given his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He has three hundred and fifty acres of land, constituting the south half of section 21, and the remainder in section 20. He carries on general farming and stock raising and his capably conducted business affairs are bringing to him substantial success.

On the 1st of September, 1888, Mr. Cowen was married to Miss Vesta Henry, who was born on a farm in Meigs township, Morgan county, Ohio, May 31, 1867, and is a daughter of Professor and Margaret (Tennant) Henry, the former a relative of the distinguished Patrick Henry, whose patriotic speeches roused the colonists at the beginning of the Revolutionary war as he set before them the principles of liberty and the practices of the British government in encroaching upon the rights of the American people. Professor Henry has long been known as a successful and able educator of Ohio, and now resides at McConnellsville, Morgan county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cowen have been born eleven children: John Kissig; William Allison; Joseph Francis; Roger Woods; James Henry; Mary Christine; Helen Woods; David; Patrick Henry; and Margaret. Of these Mary was accidently killed when two and a half years of age, and the others are still living.

In politics Mr. Cowen has been a life-long democrat, and while active in support of the party has never sought nor held office. He is a broad minded well informed man, whose support of any party or principles is based on a thorough understanding thereof, and his opinions are not without weight and influence in the community.

Mrs. Nancy Christofel

Mrs. Nancy Christofel, well known and highly esteemed in Ashland, was a representative of one of the pioneer families of Ohio. She was born in Richland county in 1834 and was a daughter of Joshua Ford, one of the earliest settlers of that county, who located within its borders when the work of improvement and development seemed scarcely begun there. He secured wild land and converted it into productive fields and from time to time he added to his holdings until he was the owner of an entire section of six hundred and forty acres. He also gave to each of his seven sons a tract of land of eighty acres and the family were closely, prominently and helpfully associated with the agricultural development of that part of the state.

Mrs. Christofel spent^ her girlhood days in her parents ' home, acquired her education in the public schools and was trained to the duties of the household so that she was well qualified tp take care of a home of her own by the time of her marriage when on the 1st of September, 1859, she became the bride of Jacob Christofel. HPr husband was born in 1824 and was a carriagemaker by trade, following that occupation in Mansfield, Ohio, throughout his entire business life. He had been married little more than two years when the Civil war broke out and men from all sections of the country flocked to the standard of the nation, going from the counting rooms, the workshops, the offices and the fields. Mr. Christofel was among the number who in 1861 offered his aid to his country, enlisting as a member of the Sixty-fifth Ohio Infantry Regiment.

He went to the front as captain of his company and after serving for one year he was killed in 1862 at the battle of Stone River, thus laying down his life on the altar of his country. His remains were brought back home for burial, his grave being made in the Mansfield cemetery. His command had been with Sherman's brigade and Captain Christofel proved a most valorous and loyal soldier and officer.

Besides his widow Captain Christofel left one son, Joshua Ford, who was born July 30, 1860. He was a young man of marked ability whose future seemed bright with promise but when he had almost completed a course of study in Berea College he passed away in April, 1881, his death coming as an irreparable loss to his mother. Following the death of her son Mrs. Christofel adopted a daughter, Odessa L. Kirk, whom she reared and educated. She was graduated from the Ashland union school and is now the wife of W. A. Smyth, a horse buyer and shipper of Jefferson county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Smyth have two living children.

Mrs. Christofel belonged to the Methodist church and was an earnest Christian lady whose life was actuated by the high ideals of her religion. She became a resident of Ashland, where she made her home until her death in April, 1909. She was greatly esteemed here, her many good traits of heart and mind winning for her the love and respect of all who knew her.

Lewis Q. Cummings

Lewis Q. Cummings, a prominent agriculturist of Sullivan township, this county, where he has resided all his life, is descended from a family who were among the early pioneers of this section of the state. He was bom December 2, 1861, on the farm he now occupies, a son of John P. and Ellenor (Barber) Cummings. His father came from Cherry Yalley, New York, to this state in 1834 with his parents, Archibald and Elizabeth (Shanklin) Cummings, their objective point being Canaan, Wayne county, where were then living Mrs. Kinney and Alexander S. Lankland, cousins of Mrs. Elizabeth Cummings. The journey was made by schooner from Buffalo to Cleveland, thence by canal to Akron and on to Canaan. They had no team but brought with them a wagon and a few household goods. After spending a few weeks at Canaan, they located on a farm a mile and a half west of what later became the village of Sullivan. The family at that time consisted of father, mother and six children, but the three older ones remained in New York state, coming to Ohio a few years later. The only survivors are James, who now lives in Milan, Ohio; and Andrew, who was born in Sullivan and now resides in St. Louis, Missouri. The father of our subject, who was a farmer and stock raiser by occupation, departed this life in 1868. In his family were six children, namely: William F. ; Milton J., who resides in Seattle, Washington; Lewis Q., of this review; and Edwin F., Mary and John, Jr., who died in youth and young womanhood.

On his father's farm Lewis Q. Cummings was reared, engaging in the daily routine of agricultural life during the summer months and in the winter acquiring his elementary education at the district schools. After working for a few years on the farm he was matriculated as a student at Oberlin University, where he pursued a course of study. Shortly after leaving the institution he was united in marriage and then returned to the home farm, where he has since resided, actively pursuing agriculture in company with his brother William F., the business being transacted under the name of Cummings Brothers. They have one hundred and ninety acres of land, all of which is highly improved and under a high state of cultivation and the farm is considered one of the best, for the production of all kinds of grain, that there is in the county. They have every convenience with which to carry on farming by modern methods. Their land is thoroughly drained and every acre tillable, and their buildings are substantial and of the most modern type. They also deal in stock on a large scale and are well known throughout the county as breeders of thoroughbred Holstein cattle, of which they have an excellent herd, their animals always commanding top prices.

On October 10, 1888, Mr. Cummings wedded Miss Mary Holbrook, daughter of Henry F. and Adeline (Davis) Holbrook, of the village of Ashland. Her grandparents, Bernard and Sarah (Millett) Holbrook, came from Vermont to this state in 1835, and settled in Sullivan township, Ashland county, of which they were pioneers. Mr. and Mrs. Cummings have the following children : Louise R., a student at Wooster University ; Charles M. ; John H. ; and Archibald B.

In politics Lewis Q. Cummings is a republican and, being active in party affairs, he is frequently chosen to represent his party as a delegate to county, district and state conventions. He has always taken an interest in local affairs and, being an agitator of public improvements, he proceeds., upon the theory that a community is judged by what it is and that good roads and schools, modern public buildings, well kept public and private grounds, indicate the intelligence and progress of the people. He has served the township as trustee for fifteen years, for a number of years as a member of the school board and was a vigorous agitator of the present central high school system, this township being the first in the county to favor its adoption. Mr. Cummings, together with the members of his family, attends divine services at the Congregational church. He finds recreation, pleasure and relaxation in his home, which he has supplied with every comfort and which bears evidence of education and refinement and with his wife and family he finds the ideal of life's true happiness.

E. F. Shelley, whose life has been characterized by an habitual regard for all that is best in human activities, is numbered today among the honored and valued residents of Ashland county, where for many years he has been operating as an enterprising, energetic and successful business man. He is now engaged in the banking business, having in 1907 been elected to the presidency of the

Residence Of E. F. Shelley

Citizens Savings Bank of Londonville. He was born on a farm near Wooster, Wayne county, Ohio, in October, 1853, and is a son of John and Katharine (Smith) Shelley. The father's birth occurred in October, 1829, on Shelley island in the Susquehanna river, in Pennsylvania, and when eight years of age he accompanied his parents on their removal to Wayne county, Ohio. His entire life has been devoted to general agricultural pursuits and he now resides on a farm near Jeromeville, Ashland county.

In 1875, E. J. Shelley was united in marriage to Miss Tamzen Cornell, a native of Wayne county, Ohio, who was there reared. Her parents were Jason and Rachel (Critchfield) Cornell, the former a native of Wayne county and the latter of Holmes county, Ohio. The father has now passed away but the mother yet resides in Wayne county. Mr. and Mrs. Shelley are the parents of a daughter, Martha T. The family is very prominent socially, the hospitality of the best homes being freely extended them.

In his political views Mr. Shelley is an earnest democrat and has served two terms as mayor of Loudonville, first by appointment to fill a vacancy and later by election. His administration was characterized by practical reform and improvement and he stood for restrictive and legislative enactments which would further the interests and upbuilding of the city. Indeed he has been connected with many important improvements in the town and his labors have contributed much its upbuilding and substantial growth. Fraternally he is a thirty-second degree Mason, belonging to Hanover Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Loudonville: Mansfield Commandery, K. T. ; and the Consistory of Dayton. He is likewise connected with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in Mansfield. He is an approachable, genial man, courteous and cordial, has an extensive acquaintance and is popular with all who know him. His record is a most substantial one for he has always correctly judged his own capacities and those interests which make up life's contacts and experiences. In his business affairs he has discriminated between the essential and the non-essential and the utilization of the former has brought him to a prominent place in commercial and financial circles in Ashland county.

Charles W. Swineford

Charles W. Swineford, one of the younger men affiliated with the business interests of Ashland in a prominent capacity, as traffic manager for the Dr. Hess & Clark Stock Food Company, is a native of Montgomery township, born on a farm two and a half miles east of Ashland, November 15, 1870, a son of Curtis and Elnora (Worley) Swineford, natives of that place. The grandfather, Emanuel Swineford, came to this county from Center county, Pennsylvania, about the year 1837, locating in Ashland and subsequently removing to a farm in Montgomery township. The father of the subject of this review engaged in agricultural pursuits until he retired a few years ago and is now residing in Ashland at the age of sixty-five years. He still maintains a remarkable degree of health and vigor which enable him to participate in the joys and comforts of the prosperity that his many years of active life have afforded him. He and his wife are ardent Christians and hold membership in the Lutheran church, in which they are active workers and, striving to frame their conduct in obedience to the tenants of their faith, they are a worthy couple, meriting that degree of respect due to all who love the Christian faith and endeavor to emulate the life and walk of their Master.

On his grandfather's farm Charles W. Swineford spent his boyhood days, engaging in the daily routine of agricultural life and acquiring his education at the district schools. Subsequently he pursued a course of study in the grammar schools of Ashland and remained on the home farm until he was seventeen years of age, at which period of his life he entered a telegraph office in Claypool, Indiana, where he served his apprenticeship. He was then placed in charge of an office at Chouteau, Oklahoma, on the Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railroad, being employed by this company for two years" and serving at various points along the line of the system. He next entered the employ of the Missouri Pacific Railroad but finally gave up the vocation of telegraphy, at the time of the opening of the Cherokee strip. However, he did not participate in the rush for the land, arriving thirty days after the opening. He spent about two years in that part of the country and then returned to Ashland in 1898, where for three years he was engaged as yard master for the Erie Railroad Company. Upon resigning his position he entered the employ of the Dr. Hess & Clark Stock Food Company as invoice clerk and was later promoted to the position of traffic manager, the duties of which station he is now performing, his ability making him invaluable to the concern.

On December 5, 1901, Mr. Swineford wedded Miss Stella Brinkley, of this city and to this union have been born : Georgia Elnora ; Curtis Wilbur ; Donald E. Worley; and Robert Doyle, who died April 17, 1909. Mr. Swineford is a stanch supporter of the republican party and has taken a deep interest in the affairs of the city, being at present a member of the Ashland city council, in which capacity he has been serving for the past five years and is president pro tem, of that honorable body. He belongs to Montgomery Lodge, No. 355, Knights of Pythias, and is a past captain of the Uniformed rank. Mr. Swineford has always evinced those qualities of character designed to command for him the respect of all with whom he may come in contact and as a business man, being industrious and enterprising, has done much toward supporting the financial interests of the city of which he is justly entitled to a place among its representative commercial leaders.

Isaac Wolf

Isaac Wolf was born in Green township, May 24, 1844, and is a representative of one of the old and prominent pioneer families of Ashland county. His grandfather, Isaac Wolf, Sr., was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, in 1789 and was a son of John Wolf, a native of Germany, who became the founder of the family in the new world. In 1818 they removed from Pennsylvania to

Ohio, and Isaac Wolf entered one hundred and sixty acres of land, constituting the northwest quarter of section 25, Green township. The place is now occupied by his granddaughter, Mrs. W. J. Simms. It was then a part of Richland county, Ohio, for Ashland county had not been set off at that time. Much of this district of the state was covered with the native forest growth and still bore many evidences of Indian occupancy while presenting all the conditions of frontier life. Immediately after the arrival of John and Isaac Wolf they cleared an acre of land which they planted to wheat and also built a log cabin. They then returned to Pennsylvania and the following spring Isaac Wolf came again to Ashland county with his family and his parents. The parents later returned to Beaver county, Pennsylvania, where they died. Isaac Wolf remained here until called to his final rest. He served as a soldier in the war of

1812 and was always loyal in his citizenship. When he erected his log cabin there was not another house within a mile of it. He was engaged in farming throughout his entire life and he also manufactured wooden plows, for the people who were near him, as the steel plow had not then come into use. All the farm machinery was very crude and primitive as compared with that of the present time, and the work of the farm was much more difficult and arduous, but with determined purpose and characteristic energy Isaac Wolf carried on the work of the fields, clearing and cultivating his land until generous harvests rewarded his labors. His religious faith was that of the Baptist church. In

1813 he married Nancy Small and his death occurred in 1840. In his family were the following children: Warring; Sylvester, who married Hannah Gladden; Abrilla, who became the wife of Henrj' M. Hoover; Milo A., who wedded Elizabeth Priest; Boston F., who married Elizabeth Cotton; Aletha, who is the widow of Jacob Reinhardt and lives in Mt. Gilead, Ohio; Orsamus S., who married Parmela Fuller; Samantha A., who is the widow of S. D. Ferry and lives in Loudonville. The two sisters living in Loudonville are now the only surviving members of the family.

The eldest son, Warring Wolf, was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, September 19, 1815, and was brought by his parents to Ohio in the spring of 1819. Here he was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life and early became familiar with the arduous task of developing and cultivating the land. He always followed farming as a life work and his industry and perseverance enabled him to gain a place among the substantial citizens of his community. His political endorsement was given the democratic party and his follow townsmen, recognizing his sterling worth and ability, frequently called him to public office and he served as justice of the peace for six years and also trustee of Green township and assessor for three years, and the duties that devolved upon him were ever discharged in a most prompt and faithful manner. His life was at all times actuated by high and honorable principles, his righteousness and integrity undoubtedly having their root in his earnest, Christian faith. He was a charter member of the Loudonville Baptist church and served as one of its deacons for over sixty years, or from the death of his father until his own demise, which occurred February 28, 1902. He had a family of nine children, but five of the number died in childhood. Those still living are: Mary A., who is the widow of John L. Metcalf and resides in Jeromeville, Ashland county;

Isaac ; Margaret E., who is the wife of W. J. Simms, of Green township, occupying the old homestead farm which her father entered from the government ; and ment ; and John P., of Loudonville.

Isaac Wolf, whose name introduces this record has spent his entire life in Ashland county, where he has given his time and attention to farming, save for the period in his youth which he devoted to the acquirement of his education in the public schools. He remained under the parental roof until his marriage and then started out in life on his own account by renting a farm north of Perrysville, where he lived for fourteen years. During that period he carefully saved his earnings until he was able to purchase his present farm adjoining the old homestead farm which her grandfather entered from the governon section 24, Green township, pleasantly situated two miles north of Loudonville on the Loudonville and Ashland road. He carries on general farming and stock raising and now has a well improved property, supplied with good buildings. He erected a comfortable dwelling and also a good barn and has ample shelter for grain and stock upon his place. The fields present an attractive appearance and the farm work is carried on along most modern methods.

On the 28th of October, 1868, Mr. Wolf was united in marriage to Miss Alice Freshwater, who was born in Loudonville, Ohio, in June, 1849, and is a daughter of Reuben and Chloe (Charters) Freshwater. They were early settlers of Loudonville, coming to this county from Detroit, Michigan. The father was a cooper by trade and both he and his wife spent their remaining days in Loudonville. Their family numbered four sons and two daughters who reached adult age, while one son died in early life. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wolf have been born two children: Earl, a jeweler of Loudonville, who is married and has one child, Virginia; and Edna, the wife of W. B. Wolf, of Mansfield, and the mother of one daughter, Lois.

Mr. Wolf gives his political allegiance to the democracy. Since his boyhood he has been a member of the Baptist church and his life has at all times exemplified the high principles of integrity, justice and honor which everywhere command respect and confidence. His home is one of the finest country residences in the county. It is commodious, richly and tastefully furnished and built in modern style of architecture. A fountain plays in front of the house and there are many fine springs on the farm, which is therefore well watered. A well kept lawn surrounds his home and the place gives every indication of the cultured and refined taste of the owner. Moreover it is a monument to his thrift and enterprise as well as his progressive spirit.

Calvin Day Mason

Prominent among the enterprising and progressive business men of Ashland is Calvin Day Mason, who is connected with insurance and several other lines of activity which are potent forces in the commercial and financial development of the city. He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, during a temporary residence of his parents in that place, but the greater part of his life has been passed in Ashland, where he has ever been known as an honored citizen. He represents an old American family. His paternal grandfather was a Virginian by birth and was of Scotch-Irish and Welsh and High Dutch descent. However, at an early period in the colonization of the new world his ancestors located in Virginia. On leaving that state the grandfather came to Washington county, Pennsylvania, and a number, of years later removed to Jefferson county, Ohio. He had married Elizabeth Simonton, one of a numerous family of daughters of French Huguenot lineage whose father owned an estate near Easton, Pennsylvania. His land there was granted him in recognition of the aid which he had rendered when the colonies were in arms against the mother country in the Revolutionary war. His holdings were extensive and when he removed to western Pennsylvania he disposed of all of his property near Easton save a section which he thought was worth nothing, believing it to be too hilly to be of use. Today, however, the beautiful city of Easton crowns those hills.

James Simonton Mason, the father of our subject, was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in February, 1813, and was the second son in a large family. His parents, uniting as they did the Scotch-Irish and French Huguenot strains, were devoted Christian people and faithful adherents of the Presbyterian church. James Simonton Mason was reared in a home of culture and refinement and of Christian teaching and the lessons impressed upon his mind in early youth bore rich fruit in later years. His nature was retiring and sensitive but he always manifested strong convictions and held to high ideals. He possessed notable physical strength and vigor until he met with an accident in middle life which permanently impaired his health. He was a young man at the time of the removal of his parents to Jefferson county, Ohio.

It was while living in that county that James Simonton Mason formed the acquaintance of Miss Sarah Elizabeth Day, whom he wooed and won. She was a lady of beautiful character and most attractive personality, a daughter of Nicholas and Juliet (McFarin) Day. Her father was a native of Harford county, Maryland, and was a son of an Englishman by birth, who became a slave owner in the south. Loosing his father when young, Nicholas Day became the ward of Colonel Rumsey, a distinguished attorney of Annapolis, who directed his education. When he had completed his school course he accepted a position as salesman in a wholesale house in Baltimore, Maryland, where he remained until eighteen years of age, when he went to western Pennsylvania and had charge of government store some miles above Pittsburg, in connection with the commissary department of General Wayne's army in the Revolutionary war. At that time he owned land at Pittsburg but the town contained only a few cabins, and following the close of hostilities with the mother country he settled at Denniston, Pennsylvania, where he conducted an extensive and prosperous mercantile enterprise. He also became a prominent factor in other branches of business and speculated largely in lands in western Pennsylvania. His business interests were carefully directed and his sound judgment and keen discernment found expression in the substantial success which attended his labors. He was extremely public-spirited, interested in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community and at one time, at his own expense, he built a bridge over a stream in Westmoreland county at a cost of fifteen thousand dollars. He first married Margaret Denniston, and after her death wedded Juliet McFarin, a daughter of a Presbyterian minister, the Rev. Thomas McFarin, of Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and a niece of Dr. McCroskey, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and cousin of Rev. McCroskey, afterwards bishop of the Episcopal diocese of Detroit, Michigan. Rev. McFarin was a native of Scotland and a graduate of Edinburg University. On coming to America he located near Greencastle, Pennsylvania, and for many years preached to a large and wealthy congregation. He never used his salary for his own benefit, however, but donated it to the charitable work of the church, living an independent life on his estate where hospitality was one of the crowning features of his home. His daughter, Juliet, was educated in the Chambersburg Female Seminary and a few years after her graduation gave her hand in marriage to Nicholas Day, who at that time was forty-four years of age while his bride was twenty-two. Their home became known far and wide for its rare culture, its refinement and Christian influence. It was the center of social life, of unlimited hospitality and of most generous charity. Theirs was the typical home of the south in its palmiest days when they had a large retinue of servants, including bondsmen who were in the family through several generations. In his later years Mr. Day suffered financial reverses, and though he was forced to give up his property, his integrity remained unimpaired through all. The latter years of his life were devoted to teaching school and in his old age he was a resident of Jefferson county, Ohio.

It was in that home that Sarah Elizabeth Day spent her girlhood and in 1842 she gave her hand in marriage to James Simonton Mason. The following year they came to Ashland and for a brief period lived with some cousins on a farm west of the town. Soon, however, Mr. Mason purchased a general store which he conducted for some time and they took up their abode in this city. On withdrawing from mercantile pursuits he became identified with the Ashland Mutual Fire Insurance Company as general agent, remaining in connection therewith for sixteen years, during which time he traveled over the state, establishing the business of the company in various localities. He then opened a local agency in Ashland in company with his son, Calvin, and the business has been continued to the present time.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Mason were born five children, of whom the eldest died in infancy. Of the surviving members of the family Calvin Day Mason is the senior. The next son, William Franklin Mason, was born in Ashland and after completing a high-school course read medicine with Dr. David Sampsel, Sr., and pursued a course of study in Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, from which he was graduated with honors. He bedded Mary Norris near Fort Recovery, Ohio, and died December 24, 1908, after having practiced long and successfully in the western part of this state. James R. Mason, the third son, was born in Ashland, is a high school graduate and also attended the Wooster University. After teaching for several terms in this county he traveled extensively in the interests of the Kilbourne Publishing Company. He afterward located in Port Townsend, Washington, where he engaged in the real-estate business for several years and is now a representative of the shipping and insurance interests of Seattle, Washington. He married Mrs. Alice Baldwin, the widow of Dr. Charles Baldwin, of that city. Juliet Elizabeth Mason, the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Simonton Mason, is a native of Ashland and makes her home with her brother and his family here. When the parents removed to Ashland a cousin of Mrs. Mason, Margaret C. Drum, was one of the household. They regarded her as their own child and she was educated in the Ashland schools, part of the time attending the old academy. She was particularly interested in the good work of the church and Sunday school and took active part in the work carried on for the soldiers during the Civil war as a member and the president of the Ladies Aid Society, and when this society disbanded after the war its members voted her theft* large and beautiful flag as a recognition of her services. For some years she was a teacher in the Ashland schools and later became the wife of James H. Clark of Cleveland, Ohio, but is now deceased.

Following their removal to Ashland Mr. and Mrs. James Simonton Mason built one of the first houses on Center street and occupied it for many years, it being now owned by Senator Patterson. Afterward they made their home on the present site of the United Brethren church. There the wife and mother passed away April 27, 1891, in her seventy-third year. Mr. Mason survived for seven years and died at his new home on Pleasant street, August 23, 1898, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. Their records constituted an integral chapter in the history of Ashland and its social life, in its business development and in its public interests. No residents of this city have enjoyed in larger measure the honor and esteem of those with whom they have been associated.

Calvin Day Mason, who spent his youthful days in his parents' home on Center street in Ashland, entered the public schools and passed through consecutive grades until he completed the high school course under the superintendency of Colonel Barber. From the age of eighteen years down to the present time he has figured in the business circles of Ashland and joined his father in the establishment of an insurance agency which yet endures. He is today one of the most prominent representatives of insurance in this part of the state and is also associated with other lines of business which profit by his sound judgment and receive stimulus from his untiring energy and perseverance.

In May, 1891, Calvin Day Mason was united in marriage to Miss Susan H. Locke, a daughter of Josiah and Frances Louisa (Sprengle) Locke. The ancestry of the Locke family can be traced back to Deacon William Locke who was born in Stepney Parish, London, England, December 13, 1628. He became the founder of the family in America and in Woburn, Massachusetts, was married December 27, 1655, to Mary Clarke, a daughter of William and Margery Clarke of that place. Deacon Locke died in Woburn, July 18, 1715. His son, Samuel Locke, born October 14, 1669, married Ruth Kendall and their son, Samuel Locke, II, was born August 24, 1702, and in 1730 wedded Rebecca Richardson. ^ They were the parents of Josiah Locke, who was born September 28, 1736, and on the 29th of February, 1764, married Esther Kittridge. His son and namesake, Josiah Locke, Jr., was born at Leicester, February 14, 1768, and married Miss Elizabeth Hartwell in 1791. Their son Elam Locke, was born in Winfield, New York, January 29, 1795, and was married December 12, 1820, to Jane Jones. They were the grandparents of Mrs. Mason. Her parents were Josiah and Frances Louise (Sprengle) Locke, both of whom were born in 1829. They were married September 1, 1853, and had three children, Marshall Pinkley Wilder Locke; Mrs. Susan Hinks Mason; and Lizzie Laura, the deceased wife of Stoten Fletcher, of Indianapolis and the mother of Mrs. Booth Tarkington. The father resided for some time in Ashland and afterward spent many years in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mrs. Mason completed her education in the Pennsylvania College for Women at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and after her father's death came with her mother to Ashland, the residence being erected at the corner of Pleasant and Sandusky streets, where the family now reside. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Mason have been born three children, Josiah Locke, James Day, and Frances Elizabeth, all attending the Ashland schools. These children are representatives of two of the old families of Ashland. Mr. Mason has always lived here and the fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood to the present indicates that his life has been a most honorable and upright one.

Joseph D. Jennings

Joseph D. Jennings has been a resident of Ashland county since 1875. He is one of the self-made men who owes his prosperity entirely to his earnest and well directed efforts. That he has lived a life of industry is indicated by the fact that he is now the owner of a good farm of ninety-four acres on section 9, Green township. He was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, July 28, 1856, and is a son of David and Margaret Jane (McNeil) Jennings, the former born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1818 and the latter in Washington county, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Jennings spent her entire life in the county of her nativity. Mr. Jennings went to that county at the age of twenty years and there remained until called to his final rest. He was a shoemaker by trade.

Joseph D. Jennings was the seventh in order of birth in a family of nine children. He remained in the city of Washington, Pennsylvania, until five years of age when his parents removed to a farm near there and he continued under the parental roof until he reached the age of eighteen. He then came to Jefferson county, settling near Steubenville, Ohio, and was employed as a farm hand in that locality for a year and three months. In 1879 he arrived in Ashland county and worked on a farm by the month for three years but was ambitious to become the owner of property and carefully saved his earnings that he might eventually do so. At the end of three years he was married and purchased his present farm from his father-in-law, Robert M. Karnahan. This is a tract of ninety-four acres situated on section 9, Green township. For a long period he was active in the work of the fields but during the past eight years has only given his attention to overseeing the farm work, owing to an electric shock which injured him physically. The lightning has struck this place many times owing probably to the fact that there is some kind of nre on the farm.

On the 25th of December, 1879, Mr. Jennings was united in marriage to Miss Theresa Jemima Karnahan, who was born in Vermillion township, this county, September 1, 1852. When twelve years of age she came with her parents to the farm on which she has since lived. She is a daughter of Robert M. and Katharine (Carnes) Karnahan, the former a native of Ashland county, Ohio, and the latter of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. Both spent their last days on what is now the Jennings farm and Mr. Karnahan was the owner of three hundred and twenty-seven acres of rich and valuable land at the time of his death which occurred in 1882. In addition to tilling the soil he operated a sawmill and also had a chopping burr on his farm which was operated by water power and. did custom work. He devoted most of his time in his later years to the mill. He was a man of upright life and honorable principles who enjoyed in full measure the confidence and good will of those who knew him. He and his family were identified with the Presbyterian church. Unto him and his wife were born five daughters and two sons : William,, now living in Kansas ; John, a resident of Los Angeles, California ; Martha, the deceased wife of John Thompson; Susan, the widow of Allen Castor and now residing near Luray, Kansas; Mrs. Jennings; Margaret; and Amanda, living in Hayesville and owning a farm near the town. Mr. and Mrs. Jennings have two children: Edna Pearl and Lena Leota, who are both successful school teachers.

The family hold membership in the Presbyterian church of Perrysville and take an active and helpful interest in its work. Mr. Jennings has served as one of the elders of the church for several years. In every respect he measures up to the full standard of honorable manhood, is reliable and trustworthy in every relation of business and citizenship and his friends find him a congenial, courteous gentleman worthy of their warm regard.

Gregory C. Henley

Gregory C. Henley, who is now giving his attention to the supervision of his invested interests, was well known for many years as a successful merchant and previously as a representative of industrial interests. His life record is that of a man who has always found that daily duties have fully claimed his time and attention and who in their performance has gained the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens and won the substantial success which follows persistency of purpose well directed. Ohio numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in Taylorville, Muskingum county, October 25, 1843. His parents were Gregory and Barbara (Boeshertz) Henley, natives of Germany. The mother's birth occurred in Alsace, a part of that disputed district which has now belonged to Germany, now to France, as the fortunes of war have diverted it first one way and then another. The family name was originally spelled ' ' Henle ' ' but the father of our subject added the final y. He crossed the Atlantic to New York when seventeen years of age and the lady who afterward became his wife made the voyage to the new world with her parents when eight years of age, the family home being established in Knox county, Ohio. They were married in Zanesville, this state, and spent the remainder of their days in that vicinity, both passing away on the farm in Knox county where the boyhood days of Gregory C. Henley were spent. The father had one hundred and sixty acres of land and was an enterprising, intelligent man, who gave to his children good school advantages, realizing how important and valuable is education as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. Unto him and his wife were born seven children : Genevieve began teaching at the age of eighteen years and followed that profession until the time of her marriage to Francis Durbin. She is now a widow and resides at Barberton, Ohio. Elizabeth, who remained at home and assisted in the household duties until her marriage to Absalom Durbin, a cousin of Francis Durbin, is also now a widow and resides in Warsaw, Indiana. Gregory C. is the next of the family. Charles, who owns the old home place and a tract of forty acres beside, has been identified with the educational interests of the county, having taught in the country schools for thirty winter seasons. Louis is a grocer of Toledo, Ohio. Caroline is the wife of Peter Allerding, of Mount Vernon. Albert James is conducting an extensive real-estate business in Mount Vernon.

Gregory C. Henley when eight years of age removed with his parents from Muskingum county, Ohio, to a farm six miles south of Loudonville in Knox county, bordering the Ashland county line. There he remained until twenty years of age when he came to Loudonville and for a time was employed by A. A. Taylor. Later he was connected with the Northwestern Milling Company for about twenty years. His father was a cooper by trade and in early life he began learning the business. He was afterward sent to Perrysville where he conducted a branch for the mill which Mr. Taylor owned. He came from that place to Loudonville where he conducted a cooper shop for Mr. Taylor and later was sent to Toledo to conduct his cooperage business in connection with mills there. Later he again came to Loudonville and during this period drifted into the millwright business which he followed until eighteen years ago for Mr. Taylor and the stock company which succeeded to his interests. In 1890, however, he started out upon an independent venture as a dealer in implements, forming a partnership with R. E. Byers under the firm style of Byers & Henley, which connection continued for fifteen years. Mr. Henley then sold his interest and since that time has given his attention to the supervision of his real estate and other personal investments. In his business affairs as the years have gone by he has won substantial prosperity and is now comfortably situated in life.

In October, 1870, Mr. Henley was married to Miss Anna J. Buckingham, who was born in Knox county, Ohio. March 28, 1841, and is a daughter of Daniel and Rebecca (Bricker) Buckingham, who removed from Pennsylvania to Knox county, Ohio. The Buckinghams came originally from Virginia. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Henley are five in number but Charles, the eldest, died at the age of twelve years. Albert, who was graduated from the high school and for twelve years has been in the shoe store of J. B. Long, married Mildred Sapp and they have two children, Justin Constantine and Claude. Bernard died in infancy. Celsus is a clerk in the clothing store of Straus & Anholdt, of

The parents are members of St. Peter's Catholic church. In his political views Mr. Henley is a democrat and has served for a number of years in the town council, acting as chairman of various important committees. He has also been president of the board of public affairs since the beginning of 1908. He has been called upon to settle a number of estates and in all of these positions of trust has shown himself worthy the confidence and regard reposed in him.

John W. Murphy

An active and useful life has brought John W. Murphy to a creditable position as a representative of agricultural interests in Ashland county. He now owns and cultivates ninety-two acres of land in the home place, on section 24, Green township, and in addition he has much other valuable property from which he derives a substantial annual income. His birth occurred in Green township on the 6th of October, 1872. He is a son of George Steward Murphy and a grandson of Manluf Murphy. The latter was born in Delaware in 1800 and in that state was reared to manhood. He there married Elizabeth Tomlinson, also a native of Delaware, and in the year 1833 they removed to Ohio, Manluf Murphy entering a small tract of land of forty acres about a mile north of Loudonville in Green township, Ashland county. He was in very straitened financial circumstances but his capably managed business affairs, his judicious investments and his unfaltering industry brought to him gratifying prosperity so that at the time of his death he was the owner of a large farm and also had money out at interest. Both he and his wife spent their remaining days in this county. Their children were George Fisher ; Mrs. Sena Ann Fox ; Sarah Elizabeth ; Louisa ; Manluf ; one who died in infancy ; and George S., who completed the family.

George S. Murphy was born April 12, 1840, on the old homestead farm entered by his father from the government and situated about a mile north of Loudonville. His entire life was passed in Green township and he died near the place of his birth January 10, 1904. His education was acquired in the public schools and he remained at home with his parents until his marriage, on the 10th of August, 1871, to Miss Martha Ellen White, who was born December 24, 1845, in Green township, about three and a half miles north of Loudonville, where she had always resided. She is a daughter of John and Mary (Martin) White, the former born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in September, 1800, and the latter in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in September, 1807. John White had come to Ohio as a young man and had here entered eighty acres of land. He was accompanied by his brother, William, who also entered a tract in the same neighborhood. John White then spent his remaining days in the development and further improvement of the land which he had claimed. He also added to it until he had about two hundred acres at the time of his death, all of which were well improved, while upon it was a good brick dwelling. He was a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church and believed strongly in the abolition cause, but the church did not allow their members to vote. When about thirty years of age he wedded Mary Martin, a daughter of Isaac and Jane (Wiley) Martin, who were natives of Pennsylvania and came from Washington county, that state, to Ohio. Mr. Martin died in this county while his widow afterward went to the home of a son in Wisconsin and there passed away. Mrs. White accompanied her parents to Ohio in 1812, at which time the family home was established on Honey creek, in Green township, near the Greentown blockhouse in which they took refuge when the Indians were on the war path. Although the red men visited the county during her girlhood days she lived to witness great changes, seeing this district transformed into a thickly settled and prosperous region, supplied with all the conveniences and manifestations of modern civilization known to the older east. The death of Mr. White occurreu April 30, 1871, while his widow survived until January 30, 1881. They were the parents of nine children: Sarah Jane Jamison, who died in 1861; Mrs.

Eliza Ann Rowan, of Wisconsin; Mrs. Margaret McFarland, who died in Indiana; Mrs. Mary Gregg, a resident of Eaton county, Michigan; John, who died at the age of four years; Thomas, who died in California; Mrs. Nancy Emeline White, who resides in Green township ; Mrs. Murphy, the mother of our subject ; and Olive, who lives with Mrs. Murphy.

Following his marriage George S. Murphy began farming on his own account and for about seven years cultivated rented land, during which time he carefully saved his earnings and as the result of his industry and economy was then enabled to purchase a farm. In time he became the owner of two farms, embracing together one hundred and eighty-four acres of land, and in addition has two acres where his widow now resides, about a half mile north of Loudonville. He worked diligently to attain his success and his well directed efforts brought him a substantial competence. When sixteen years of age he united with the Methodist Episcopal church of Loudonville and remained one of its active members until his death. He assisted in building the present house of worship and contributed liberally to the support of the church. In politics he was a stanch republican but would never consent to hold office, save that of school director. He was actively interested in temperance work and his influence was always on the side of those movements which uplift and benefit humanity. He died January 10, 1904, leaving to his son the priceless heritage of an untarnished name, as well as considerable valuable property.

John W. Murphy was reared under the parental roof and remained with his parents until 1894, when he turned his attention to railroading and was thus engaged for ten years on the Indiana & Fort Wayne Railroad. At the time of his father's death, however, he returned to the old homestead and has since given his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He has a farm of ninetytwo acres on section 24, Green township, also owns fifty-two acres in another farm on section 13, Green township about a mile and a half from the first place, and forty acres on section 36, so that his aggregated holdings cover one hundred and eighty-four acres of land that is rich and arable. He carries on general farming and stock raising and his place presents a neat and thrifty appearance, indicating his practical and progressive methods of carrying on his work.

In 1893 Mr. Mnrphy was united in marriage to Miss Susan Cosner, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Frederick Cosner. In his political views Mr. Murphy is a republican, supporting the men and measures of the party, yet without desire for office as a reward for party fealty. He represents one of the old families in the county, the Murphys having been known here for seventy-six years. They have always been rated as good citizens, giving their influence in support of progressive public measures, and John W. Murphy, his father, and grandfather, stand for all that is best in the line of human activities.

Joseph B. Brinton

Joseph B. Brinton has for thirty-three years been station agent at Ashland and moreover has an excellent record as a veteran of the Civil war. These facts alone would entitle him to representation in this volume but in other ways as well he has contributed to public progress and improvement through his cooperation with many movements for the general good. He was born November 10, 1838, in Champaign county, Ohio. He was only four years of age when his father died and was left an orphan at the age of seven by the death of his mother. He was then taken by a family who thought education was of little consequence and his school privileges were, therefore, very limited. Realizing the necessity and value of intellectual training, however, Mr. Brinton has largely counteracted the deficiency of his early years by his own reading and study. He has made his own way in the world from the age of seven for when with the family who took him he fully earned his living in the performance of; the services which they required of him. At length he became tired of the treatment which he received and when fourteen years of age he ran away and came to Middleburg, Ohio. He worked at farm labor through the summer and then engaged to drive a herd of cattle from Urbana, Ohio, to Springfield, Iowa, spending thirty days upon the road. In the fall and spring he took up the task of learning the carpenter's trade at which he served three years' apprenticeship and then went to Peoria, Illinois, where he was employed to do fine joiner work on one of the best business blocks in Peoria, at a time when all such work was done by hand. In 1861 he went to Indiana and was one of the first to manifest his love of country by the offer of his services as a soldier of the Civil war.

It was in April, 1861, that Mr. Brinton enlisted as a member of Company G, Ninth Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry under Captain G. C. Moody and Colonel R. H. Milroy, who was afterward promoted to major general. His first enlistment was in response to the call for three months troops and he served in West Virginia, taking part in the battle of Philippi, the first set engagement of the war with small loss of men. He was afterward at Carrick's Ford which was the heaviest engagement which the regiment participated in during the three months service. .At the end of his first enlistment Mr. Brinton returned home and was mustered out but immediately reenlisted at Laporte, Indiana, in the same company and regiment which was simply reorganized and immediately returned for duty. When they again reached West Virginia the Ninth Indiana Regiment took part in a number of like battles and spent the first winter at Cheap - Mountain Summit, West Virginia. From that point' they were ordered westward, joined the Army of the Cumberland under General Buell and immediately engaged in the battle of Shiloh but Mr. Brinton was left behind because of illness. Some days later he rejoined his regiment and from that time on participated in all of its engagements and was promoted from the ranks from time to time until he received a captain's commission and commanded Company G. At the battle of Lovejoy Station he was acting as assistant adjutant general on the staff of General William Gross. At the battle of Stone River he was wounded and captured and was taken at last to Libby prison, being exchanged at City Point about thirty days after his capture. He was at that time serving as second lieutenant. During his incarceration in Libby prison he purchased a paper and in it was a proclamation issued by Jefferson Davis, stating that no commissioned officer could be exchanged until further orders. Lieutenant Brinton at once saw that he would have little chance of exchange under those conditions. Luckily he was at the time in fatigue uniform and told his comrades to address him as sergeant. This allowed him to be exchanged. He participated in the memorable battle of Chickamauga and at its close at Snodgrass Hill he was slightly wounded in the leg. Following the battle of Stone River and his release from Libby prison his company presented him with a fine sword which Captain Brinton most honorably defended throughout the remainder of the war. It is yet in his possession, a precious memento of his army life. On account of the wounds he had received at the battle of Lovejoy station where he was injured in the left arm, losing the use of that member almost entirely, he was mustered out of the service December 24, 1864.

Following his return home Captain Brinton engaged in the dry-goods and grocery business but in 1865 turned his attention to railroad interests, first as .clerk and telegrapher. In 1867 he became agent at Mingo, Ohio, on the Erie Railroad and has been in railroad service from that time to the present, acting as agent at Ashland for nearly thirty-three years. He is a man, competent and popular officially, winning many friends by reason of his uniform courtesy, while the company has the utmost faith in his ability and fidelity. He was one of the organizers and for two years the secretary of the Ashland Building & Loan Association, which is still doing good business. He was for two years a member of the school board and was its treasurer for one year. He was likewise one of the charter members of the Ashland Board of Trade and its first president, serving for two terms, while for two years he was also its secretary and at the present writing is one of its directors. He has contributed very largely to the upbuilding and prosperity of Ashland, has rejoiced in its substantial growth and has every reason to be proud of the advancement made by his home town. He has been instrumental in securing the establishment of such industries as the Rubber Works, the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company and the Reliable Match Company, all of which are factors in the business activity and growth of the city.

On the 6th of June, 1867, Captain Brinton was united in marriage to Miss Lydia A. Pennington, who was born October 31, 1845, in Champaign count}, Ohio, a daughter of Heaton and Lydia Pennington. Captain and Mrs. Brinton have become parents of four daughters: Mrs. Berta Hughes, of Toledo; Edna, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Mrs. Mary Tubbs, of Ashland; and Mrs. Florence Litchfield, living in Akron, Ohio. The daughters were provided with excellent educational advantages. All attended the Ashland high school and Berta is a graduate of Baldwin University of Berea, Ohio. Edna was graduated at St. Mary's of the Springs Convent, receiving the gold medal in art and literature. Mary also attended that convent for a year and received the silver medal for scholarship but on account of difficulty with her eyes was obliged to suspend her studies. Later, however, she spent three months in the business college at Akron, Ohio, and immediately afterward entered the employ of the Wheeling & Lake Erie and of the Cleveland, Toledo & Pittsburg Railroad Companies. She thus served for twelve years and was promoted from time" to time until she became chief clerk in the claim department, holding the position until her marriage. Florence was graduated from the Ashland high school and spent one year in the high school at Toledo with the intention of pursuing a course in the Michigan University at Ann Arbor but scarlet fever obliged her to give up her studies for sometime. She afterward spent a year in Lake Erie College and then pursued a thorough course in the Commercial College at Toledo. She was a bookkeeper for the Times-Gazettc for about one year and was then married. Captain and Mrs. Brinton are held in high esteem in Ashland where they have so long resided. His life in all of its different phases has been upright and honorable, characterized by a progressive and helpful citizenship, a reliability and faithfulness in business and loyalty to the ties of home and friendship.

Henry J. Neptune

That Ashland county has many attractions for her native sons is indicated in the fact that a large percentage of those who have been born within her borders have remained to enjoy the opportunities she offers in her natural resources and in her business conditions. Among this number is Henry J. Neptune who was born September 16, 1846, on the farm which he yet occupies and now owns. He 'has always remained here and the day is busily employed in the cultivation of sixty-six acres of land. His parents were John and Nancy (McCullough) Neptune. The former was born in Virginia in 1802 and the latter in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in January, 1804. He was a son of William and Elizabeth (Poland) Neptune. The latter died in 1805, in Virginia and William Neptune afterward wedded Lydia Beman. By his first marriage he had two daughters and one son. He and his second wife moved to Indiana, where they passed away. The mother of our subject was a daughter of John and Stacy (Dunn) McCullough, who were natives of Pennsylvania, but died in Holmes county, Ohio. In his youthful days John Neptune went with his parents to

Maryland and afterward came with them to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1818. His wife arrived in this county in 1819 and when they had reached adult age they were married in 1824. In 1830 they located on the farm which is now the home of their son Henry Jerome and it remained their place of residence until they were called to their final rest. The father died April 29, 1864, while the mother passed away in May, 1878. He entered two hundred acres of land from the government. It was entirely wild and unimproved and there in the midst of the green woods he built a cabin and began the development of Iiis fields. In addition to this property he at one time owned another tract of two hundred and sixty-eight acres. His entire life was given to farm work and in the course of years his diligence and perseverance enabled him to convert the wild land into rich and productive fields. He lived a life of well directed energy and perseverance and when he had passed away the county lost one of its worthy and representative citizens. His widow survived him until 1878. He was a deacon in the Baptist church, having held that office for many years. His wife was also an earnest Christian and shared with him in his interests in the work of the church. His political allegiance was given to the democracy. Unto Mr. and Mrs, John Neptune were born twelve children: Lydia, the deceased wife of William Hannon; John, who died in Richland county, Ohio; William, living in Chanute, Kansas; Rebecca Ellen, who resides on the home farm, owning thirty-four acres which are operated by her brother ; Sarah Jane, who died in 1851 at the age of eighteen years ; Isaac, who is living in Parsons, Kansas; James, a resident of Loudon ville; Joseph, who died in 1851; Lucinda, who died in 1851 at the age of twelve years; Jeals Abrilla, who passed away in the same year ; Nehemiah, residing in Knox county, Ohio ; and Henry J. The four children who passed away in 1851 died of scarlet fever within four days of each other.

Henry J. Neptune was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, his time being divided between the work of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground, and the tasks which were assigned him upon the home farm. He now has sixty-six acres of land and carefully studies the best methods of carrying on the farm work. His fields are richly cultivated, bringing forth abundant harvests for he raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and practices the rotation of crops.

As a companion and helpmate for life's journey Mr. Neptune chose Miss Sophia Shoup, whom he wedded in January, 1871. She was born in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1850 and is a daughter of John and Nancy Shoup, both of whom died on the old farm in Holmes county, where they had reared their family of twelve children. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Neptune has been blessed with one child, Ardella M., who is the wife of G. H. Stafford and resides near Hayesville. Mr. and Mrs. Stafford have a daughter, Mildred.

In his political views Mr. Neptune is a democrat who, believing in the principles of the party, gives to it firm and stalwart support. Since January, 1904, he has been a trustee of Green township and has served on the school board for about fifteen years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion who believes in the employment of competent teachers and the establishment of good schools. He was also supervisor of roads for a number of years. He holds membership in the Baptist church of Loudonville with which he has been continuously connected since 1865. Thus for forty-four years he has endeavored to conform his life to its teachings and there is no greater proof of his honorable, upright manhood than the fact that he enjoys the unqualified esteem, confidence and good will of all who know him.

Conrad Reaser

Conrad Reaser, who in his farming and stock-raising interests has met with a measure of prosperity that entitles him to recognition among the substantial and representative citizens of Milton township, was born on the 7th of September 1844. His parents were Thomas and Christiana (Frauenfeler) Reaser, the former born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1815, while the latter's birth occurred July 15, 1818.

About 1869 Thomas Reaser made his way from the Keystone state to Ashland county, Ohio, purchasing about fifty acres of land in Milton township, on which he erected a substantial residence and barn and also placed all necessary improvements. He was a stone mason by trade and worked at the occupation at intervals in addition to general farming. He served his fellow townsmen in the positions of trustee and supervisor for several terms and was widely recognized as a leading and influential citizen of the community, his cooperation being given to all movements and measures calculated to promote the general welfare. He passed away on the 7th of May, 1899, while his wife was called to her final rest on the 10th of June, 1897, the county thus losing two of its most respected and esteemed residents, who by reason of their upright and honorable lives had gained the regard and friendship of all with whom they were associated. Their marriage was celebrated in 1836 and the record of their children is as follows: Conrad, of this review; Jacob, whose birth occurred December 9, 1846, and Mrs. Looma Brinker, who was born December 26, 1838, and died August 14, 1895.

Conrad Reaser remained at home until the death of his parents, looking after their interests and caring for them in their declining years. When both his father and mother had been laid to rest he took up his abode on an adjoining farm, which was the property of his father-in-law, Daniel Fisher, but which has since come into his possession. Here he is devoting his attention to the pursuits of general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of sheep, and his industry, close application and capable management have insured him a gratifying measure of success in his undertakings. In early manhood he learned the blacksmith's trade but has been identified with agricultural interests throughout practically his entire business career. He has erected a handsome new residence and his farm commands a splendid view of the surrounding country.

On the 13th of August, 1874, Mr. Reaser was united in marriage to Miss Harriett Fisher, a daughter of Daniel and Harriett (Zerby) Fisher. Her father, who was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1815, came to Ashland county about 1836 and bought a farm of one hundred and eight acres, in the cultivation and improvement of which he was successfully engaged until called to the home beyond. His political allegiance was given to the democracy, while in religious faith he was a Lutheran. He reared a family of six daughters and six sons, of whom eight still survive, Mrs. Reaser being the fourth in order of birth. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reaser have been born three children, namely: Lovina E., bom August 1, 1876, who became the wife of Joseph H. Lash, and passed away February 7, 1907; Thomas C., bom August 26, 1878, who wedded Miss May Castle ; and Amon E., who was born April 19, 1882, and now resides ki Ashland with his wife, who bore the maiden name of Cleo Redding.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Reaser has cast his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democracy and is a publicspirited and valued citizen. He and his family are devoted and faithful members of the Disciple church at Ashland and are well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which they reside.

A. R. Plank

A. R. Plank, sole proprietor of the Jeromeville Mill, has given his entire life to this line of business, in which he has met with well merited success. He is energetic and determined in all his business affairs and his capable management of his interests is evidenced in the success which is now attending his labors. He was born July 20, 1856, about two miles east of Wooster, in Wayne county, Ohio, and was the youngest in family of fourteen children whose parents, Abram and Nancy (King) Plank were both natives of Pennsylvania, and both were members of large families. The father's people were cabinetmakers and millers for several generations. The parents of our subject were married in Wayne county, where the father carried on milling for some time. At the time of the birth of A. R. Plank he was engaged in the milling business in Wooster, Ohio. In 1858 he removed to Lake township, Ashland county, having purchased the Rochester Mills, on the Mohican. He owned both mills and when the Plank Mills, near Wooster, burned, with no insurance, he came to his Rochester Mills, which he operated until 1870. While living there the wife and mother died, A. R. Plank being at that time seven years of age. Later the father married again, but had no children by that union. He was of the Ornish faith, while his first wife was a Dunkard in her religious belief. His death occurred at Orrville, Ohio. Of the family of fourteen children, nine reached years of maturity: Benjamin, Hiram, David, Samuel, Levi, Jemima, Malissa, Ellen, and A. R. Of this family David became a blacksmith, but the other sons were all millers and the daughters were all good bakers.

A. R. Plank was only about two years of age when his parents removed to Lake township, Ashland county, and there he remained until about 1870, assisting his father in the operation of the Rochester Mills as soon as old enough. About 1870, however, he went to Salem, Ohio, where he worked for a year and then went to Wooster, Ohio, where the brothers, Abraham and Hiram, had purchased a mill. He remained with them three years and ten months, after which he spent about two years as an employ in a mill at Ada, Ohio. During that time his employer, his wife and child, died of typhoid fever, after which Mr. Plank and Mr. Shaw leased the mills, which they operated until they were sold. Mr. Plank then went to Nashville, Tennessee, where he remained for eight months, later returning to Wooster where he was employed temporarily about six months. Going to Navarre, Ohio, he there established a mill for Frank Peacock and after two months went to Galion, Ohio, where he took charge of a mill which his brother had purchased, spending seven years at that place. During that time he bought the present Jeromeville mill in connection with his brother-in-law, James Harpster, and the firm of Plank & Harpster existed until 1902, since which time the former has been sole proprietor. He has replanked the dam and increased the capacity of the mill from fifty to seventy barrels, and established the Micle system. The mill is now in good shape, having been equipped after modern methods and both a custom and merchant trade is carried on. Mr. Plank turns out all kinds of milling products, having the only mill in the county which manufactures rye and buckwheat flour. It was operated by water power until recent date but is now a steam mill.

In 1880, in Wooster, Ohio, Mr. Plank was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Spear, who was born and resided in Wooster, a daugter of Fletcher and Charlotte (Watt) Spear, the former a native of Wooster, Ohio, and the latter of Scotland. His father was one of the pioneers of Wooster, coming to this state from Pennsylvania and had the first furniture and undertaking establishment in that place. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Plank have been born three sons: Walter E., who is now in partnership with his father under the firm style ef A. R. Plank & Son, married Miss Lucy Alleman, a native of Jeromeville, and a daughter of Charles T. Alleman : Ralph C. and Paul E., the younger sons, are in school. Mr. Plank has lived a life of industry and his unremitting diligence has brought to him the success which he now enjoys. He is at the head of a good business and has a well established plant, everything about his place exemplifying the spirit of progress which is characteristic of modern milling methods. His products are of excellent quality and command for him a liberal patronage and a constantly increasing sale.

Reuben R. Hunter

The farming interests of Ashland county find a worthy representative in Reuben R. Hunter, who is now living on section 26, Green township, his place being pleasantly located about one and a half miles north of Loudonville, on the Hayesville road. It was upon this farm that his birth occurred July 18, 1860, and it is therefore endeared to him through the scenes of his boyhood as well as of later years. In the paternal line he comes of Irish ancestry. His grandparents were William and Jane (Steel) Hunter. The latter was a laughter of James Steel, a resident of Greensboro, Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio and entered the land whereon Reuben Hunter now resides and later willed it to his daughter, Jane. The former was a native of Ireland and when sixteen years of age bade adieu to friends and native country that he might seek a home and fortune beyond the Atlantic. Soon after his arrival in the new world he came to Ashland county. His wife was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and they arrived in this county in 1818, locating on what has since been known as the old Hunter homestead, where they spent their remaining days, both passing away in 1821, there being only about six months difference in the time of their deaths. On their removal from Pennsylvania ''they had brought with them a few household goods and they built a little cabin on a site that would now be in the public highway. They experienced all the hardships and privations of pioneer life, but were willing to endure this in order to secure a home for themselves and family. All of their children were born in Pennsylvania with the exception of one. Their eldest child, Betsey, became the wife of Pellem Cook and after his death married Charles Dewalt. Mary, the second daughter, became the wife of Chadwick Bowen. Eliza became Mrs. Avery. Peggy married William Lincoln. Jane married Isaac Barger, and the sons were David, William, James and John, the last named being born in this county. Something of the condition that existed here at the time of the arrival of the Hunter family is manifest in the fact that Indians were frequent visitors in the neighborhood and two of the sons of the family, John and David Hunter, killed an old Indian chief, known as Captain Pipe, who went to their home and boasted that he had the tongues of twelve white men and wanted one more, after which he would be satisfied. The boys, felt that they could prevent the sacrifice of another white man, went after him, shot him and buried him on the farm now occupied by Reuben Hunter. His bones were afterward dug up and taken away as relics.

The parents of our subject were John and Mary (Dowell) Hunter. The former was born on the old home farm in 1821, being the youngest of his father \s family, and his entire life was spent in the immediate vicinity of his birthplace. His wife's birth occurred near Nashville, Ohio, in 1832. He became an extensive farmer, for as the years passed he carefully conducted his business affairs and his capable management and judicious investment enabled him to become the owner of about fifteen hundred acres of land which he left to his family at his demise. He cleared and improved a large portion of this and was thus closely associated with the agricultural development of the county. He died in 1900, while his wife passed away in 1904. John Hunter and his wife were the parents of seven children, namely: John, a resident of Green township; David, a farmer and stock dealer of Perrysville; Amos, residing in Richland county; Lewis, living in Green township; Reuben R., of this review; Mary; and Jane, the widow of John Rowe, of Perrysville.

The entire life of Reuben R. Hunter has been passed in the township where his birth occurred and he has always given his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He now owns and operates eighty-nine acres of good land which responds readily to the care and labor bestowed upon it. His father erected the house which is here seen and Mr. Hunter of this review built the barn. The place is supplied with modern equipments, including the latest improved machinery with which to facilitate the work of the fields. Everything about

In 1883 Mr. Hunter was united in marriage to Miss Mary Wentz, who died in 1898 leaving three children : Etta, deceased ; Stella, the wife of Clyde Cowell, of Perrysville ; and Arthur C., at home. In 1901 Mr. Hunter was again married, his second union being with Miss Mary McMahon, who was born in Donegal, Ireland, in 1868 and came to the United States in 1897. There are two children by this marriage, Ruth and Edna. Mr. Hunter gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and while he always supports its candidates he has never desired political preferment, as he wishes to give his entire time and attention to his business affairs. In the capable conduct of his farm he is meeting with good success, the place bringing to him a substantial annual income as a reward for his labor. He belongs to one of the oldest and best known families of this part of the county, a family always closely associated with the development and progress of their locality.