Ashland City (part 30 of 57)

Francis E. Myers

There are found many men whose industry has won them success - men who by their perseverance and diligence executed well defined plans which others have made - but the men who take the initiative are comparatively few. The vast majority do not see opportunities for the coordination of forces and the development of new, extensive and profitable enterprises, and therefore must follow along plans which others have marked out. Francis E. Myers, however, does not belong to the designated class. The initiative spirit is strong within him. He has realized the possibilities for the combination of forces and has wrought along the line of mammoth undertakings until the name of Myers stands as a foremost representative of industrial life in Ashland county and is known throughout the entire world, for his products are sent into almost every civilized country. He is today prominent among the captains of industry - an example to the growing youth. Reared as a farm boy, with no educational opportunities above those offered by the country schools, he has wrought along lines that have proven of immense benefit to the community as well as a source of substantial individual profit. He is today widely known as president and general manager of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother, manufacturers of pumps and hay tools, the business being the most extensive of this character extant.

Mr. Myers was born in Perry township, about six miles east of Ashland, in Ashland county, March 16, 1849. His parents, George and Elizabeth (Morr) Myers, are still living. The Myers family is of German origin and was established in America about 1748 by Jacob Myers, who was born at Muhlbach. He became a resident of Penns township in what is now Center county Pennsylvania, where he purchased a large tract of land. The family suffered the usual hardships incident to frontier life while endeavoring to reclaim the wild tract for the purposes of civilization. Jacob Myers was draughted and served in the Revolutionary army and his eldest son, Phillip, the great-grandfather of our subject, was also in the colonial army in the war for independence. He was heavily built and muscular and was a noted wrestler in his day. His military service was with Captain Ben Wesser's company and after the war he returned to Freeburg, Pennsylvania, and thence removed to Brush valley, Center county, Pennsylvania, where he purchased a tract of land. He was a man of liberal spirit and congenial disposition, recognized as a useful and valued citizen in his township. For many years he acted as supervisor of Niles township, discharging his duties in a most capable manner. He was a consistent member of the Reformed church and died April 27, 1831, at the age of seventyfive years, five months and thirteen days. His wife was Margaret Morr, who was born August 20, 1759, and died March 12, 1829. Both are buried in the Lutheran and Reformed cemetery at Reversburg, Pennsylvania. They had eleven children, seven sons and four daughters.

Jacob Myers, the grandfather of Francis E. Myers, was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, and wedded Mary Stein. They lived for some time near Hamburg, Clinton county, Pennsylvania* and then removed to what is now Ashland county, Ohio, in 1837. Here both passed away after having reared a family of nine children. Jacob Myers was a thrifty, honest farmer, quiet, reserved and conservative.

George Myers, the second of his nine children, was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1822, and is consequently eighty-seven years of age. He was reared on a farm, attended the district schools in the winter months and at the age of fifteen years accompanied liis parents on their removal to Perry township, Ashland county, Ohio, in 1837. In this county he was apprenticed to a wagonmaker - George Fultz. After a year thus spent he removed to Hayesville, where he followed his trade for one year. For twentytwo years he had a shop on the old homestead in Perry township and it was at this period that he was associated with the Studebakers, the world-famous vehicle builders, who started here, Mr. Myers and the Studebakers working together. In 1862 George Myers withdrew from the wagonmaking business. In the meantime he had built many wagons, grain cradles and buggies, also cultivators, harrows, plows and farm implements, which were sold throughout this part of the state. He was also the builder of wagons that have been in use for fifty years and are still in a good state of preservation. In the spring of 1862, however, he came into possession of the old homestead and began farming, giving his attention to general agricultural pursuits until 1894, when he retired from business life and removed to Ashland, having a fine home on Claremont avenue. While living in Perry township he acted as infirmary director for Ashland county for six years and for many years he served at intervals as township trustee. He was likewise school director during the greater part of his residence there and lent his aid to every movement which he believed would benefit the community. In local affairs he has never been partisan, but in national elections he has always voted with the democratic party. He has been a life-long member of the Evangelical church, served as class leader for many years and has always taken an active and helpful part in the church work. His life has indeed been an honored and useful one and in the evening of his days he receives the venera-

In the fall of 1847 George Myers was married to Miss Elizabeth Morr, a native of Center county, Pennsylvania, who was a year old when her parents came to Ashland county in 1828, settling in Perry township. Her father and mother were of German descent but were natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Myers is still living at this writing, in 1909, and is now eighty-two years of age. Like all retired farmers Mr. Myers feels that he cannot remain idle and still looks after one of his farms occasionally and cares for his cows, horses and garden at his home in Ashland. He is a remarkably well preserved man of eightyseven years, of that rugged, honest type of pioneer who assisted so largely in the development and progress of Ashland county. He is a man of firm resolve, and conservative and in all his dealings with his fellowmen is thoroughly honorable and reliable. No citizen of the community occupies a more enviable place in the regard of those who know him or more fully deserves the esteem and honor in which he is held than does George Myers. His wife is a descendant of one of the old American families whose progenitors came from Germany about 1770. She traces her ancestry back to Andrew Morr, who secured a large tract of land near the present site of Freeburg, Pennsylvania, and improved it, building there a stockade for protection against the Indians. He and Jacob Myers, the progenitor of the Myers family in the new world, were neighbors and pioneer settlers of that country. Mr. Morr was a prominent Lutheran and a man of marked influence in his community. He died in 1805.

In the family of Mr. and Mrs. George Myers there were eight children, four sons and four daughters, of whom Francis E. Myers is the eldest. Celina, the eldest daughter, is the wife of P. S. Countryman, a resident of Jeromeville, Ohio. Phillip A., living in Ashland, is a member of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother. Miranda became the wife of F. R. Marks and died in 1907. A. M. is now in the employ of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother, in charge of the pay-rolls, piece price and cost of construction. Savilla is the wife of E. J. Spreng, of Ashland. G. D. is general sales agent for the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother. Effie is the wife of Edgar H. Fuhrman, of Ashland.

The life history of such a man as F. E. Myers is one which cannot fail to prove of interest for the world pays its tribute of admiration and respect to him who accomplishes large things, without assistance and by honorable methods. A builder of a great enterprise, he is classed today with the captains of industry who are controlling the trade and traffic of the country, and he now stands at the head of the line of business in which he is engaged. His youthful days were passed amid humble surroundings as a farm boy who worked in the fields in the summer months and attended the district school in the winter seasons until twenty-two years of age. He was ambitious, however, and became discontented with the opportunities afforded in farm life, so that he made his way to Ashland and here found employment with M. B. Parmalee as clerk in a dry-goods store, one of the leading establishments of Ashland. His remuneration was to be one hundred dollars per year and board and he spent the year there, but says that he knew more about farming than dry-goods business and therefore sought opportunities in other lines. It was during this year that he became acquainted with M. C. Goucher, who while living at a hotel in Ashland saw in young Myers the making of a successful salesman. He therefore made him a proposition to enter his employ on a salary of sixty-five dollars per month or ten per cent commission if he would "find" a horse and buggy. He was to sell farm machinery, Mr. Goucher being a member of the firm owning the Ashland Clover Huller Works. After some effort Mr. Myers convinced his father that the proposition made him was a reliable one and secured his aid in purchasing a horse, which they bought of Emanuel Swinford. Francis E. Myers had saved one hundred dollars and Mr. Swinford trusted him for the balance of the purchase price, forty dollars. . Mr. Goucher was anxious that his protege should be a success and after three weeks asked him which it would be, salary or commission. The young man promptly replied 1 ' commission. " He resolved to make good and from the start proved a capable salesman, his business constantly increasing. The fact too, that he was on a commission basis enabled him to take up other lines of trade on the side. He did so well that he was finally put on a straight salary and took his agencies, which reverted back to him when the concern went into the hands of a receiver in 1875.

It was in that year that Mr. Myers established a little agricultural implement store in a shed in the back of the Whiting machine shop on Center street in Ashland, and as opportunity offered he added additional goods, including the Bucher & Gibbs Imperial plow, manufactured at Canton, Ohio. He was very successful in introducing this plow and sold so many that shortly afterward he was called to Canton by the Bucher & Gibbs Company and offered a regular salary as a salesman. He therefore went upon the road as representative of the house in the winter and gave his attention to his individual business in the summer time. Working his way upward from a position of salesman he eventually became president and sales manager of the largest plow manufactory in the state. Throughout his business career Mr. Myers has ever looked beyond the exigencies of the moment to the possibilities of the future and has displayed almost intuitive perception in recognizing an opportunity, while his industry has enabled him to use it to the best advantage. While he was working his way upward in connection with the plow manufacturing business and the sale of the products of the factory his brother, P. A. .Myers, had secured a patent on a double-acting force pump in 1879. Francis E. Myers, having faith in his brother's invention, joined him in the manufacturing of pumps in 1880, doing the assembling in the basement of their agricultural store on Main street in Ashland, while their machine work was done in Canton and Wooster, Ohio. This was the inception of their present plant. They felt that "nothing ventured nothing gained, ' ' and while the establishment of the business was an experiment it soon proved a successful one, the sale of the pump being sufficient to enable them to install their own power in the basement of their store on the 14th of October, 1882. The demand for their pump was great from the beginning and it was heralded with acclaim its value and worth being at once manifest. Their business of manufacturing pumps has grown most rapidly. In 1885 they erected their own plant, which was about one-quarter the size of their present plant. The two brothers were admirably adapted to establish a successful partnership. F. E. Myers was rich in experience, business lore and those attributes which bring order from chaos, while P. A. Myers was filled with ideas, system and mechanical ingenuity. Naturally sympathetic, they have builded together in harmony and unison. Addition after addition has been made as the growth of their business has demanded more space, until their plant is today the largest industry of its kind in the world - a statement that has never been contradicted. It today covers six and one-half acres, exclusive of the foundry and the Center street works. Independent motors are in each department, with duplicate power plant and automatic sprinklers. Not to any esoteric methods do they owe their success but to close application, unremitting energy and keen discrimination. They are today the largest manufacturers in the United States of pumps and hay tools exclusively, making a complete implement every half minute during working hours throughout the entire year.

In 1896 a woodwork department was added and its product includes ladders, pulleys, handles, et cetera. This is also located on Center street in Ashland and the addition is in itself a huge plant. F. E. Myers & Brother now employ in this plant from five hundred to six hundred workmen, the greater percentage being skilled labor. They manufacture hay unloading tools, door hangers, pulleys and pumps, and nearly all are manufactured after inventions patented by P. A. Myers. Their business has developed largely through trade journal advertising, for they are firm believers in this method of increasing their business by making known their product and its value to the trade. During the years of their business existence they have never known what it was to have a dull season and the shop has run continuously every day save when compelled to shut down for repairs. Some of their employes have been with them from the first day they started the wheels in their fifty by seventy-five foot shop, which indicates as nothing else will do the harmonious feeling existing between employer and employe. The works of the firm today cover a total of three hundred and fifty thousand square feet of floor space and their business annually goes into seven figures, while their payroll amounts to twenty-five thousand dollars every month of the year. Almost six hundred men are given employment and their list of customers will aggregate a total of fifteen thousand business houses throughout the world. Their offices are beautiful in every way, the furnishings, finishings and adornments being in perfect harmony. Every device that tends to reduce labor or to simplify methods is used and in every department modern ideas are paramount. They have in the United States five branch distributing houses, an export house in New York city, over three hundred and fifty jobbing houses and over thirty traveling salesmen who visit all sections of the country. In France, Italy, England, Russia, Norway, Sweden, South Africa, Central America, Austria, South America and Australia they have agencies, so that their sale is world wide. In all the length and breadth of the land the name of Myers is known wherever pumps are used.

This concern is one of the most remarkable developments of the age. The poor farm boy with little education, F. E. Myers, together with his brother, has developed a mammoth concern, seeking his success in the legitimate lines of trade, recognizing that the present, and not the future, holds the opportunities and therefore utilizing each moment to the best advantage. He is a natural salesman himself and his ability in that direction constituted the foundation for the success of the enterprise. During the recent financial panic in 1907, the factory ran full time and full force, thus verifying the quality of goods and the character of business methods employed.

As Mr. Myers has made himself known to the business and financial world his aid and cooperation have been sought on behalf of many enterprises and he is now known as vice president and director of the First National Bank, of Ashland; director of the Faultless Rubber Company, of Ashland; president of ^the Cleveland Southwestern & Columbus Railway, a traction line from Cleveland to Bucyrus ; a director of the Aurora, Elgin & Chicago Railway Company ; a director of the Mansfield Traction Power & Light Company, of Mansfield, Ohio ; and financially and actively interested in many other enterprises. The faculty of selection and the power of concentration have been potent elements in his career. He rightly believes that the true philanthropist of today is the man who does things and keeps on, who pays a fair wage the year round and can be depended upon for that wage. He devotes the major part of his time to the business of F. E. Myers & Brother, .putting forth his efforts along lines that promote its continuous growth.

Various interests aside from those which bring a financial remuneration have also benefited by the sound judgment and keen discernment of F. E. Myers. He is one of the trustees of the Wittenberg College, at Springfield, Ohio; is a director of the Young Men's Christian Association of Ashland and one or the state directors of that organization. He is also the president of the Colonial Club of Ashland, belongs to the Union Club of Cleveland, to the Chamber of Commerce of Cleveland and to many social organizations. He likewise belongs to the different Masonic bodies, being a Knight Templar and a member of the Mystic Shrine.

In January, 1871, F. E. Myers was married to Miss Allavista Hohenshel, of Roseberg, Ashland county, a daughter of Solomon and Catherine (McHose) Hohenshel, a family sketch appearing on another page of this volume. They have had four children: Mary was married in January, 1909, to Frederick L. Parker, president of the United States Whip Company, of Westfield, Massachusetts; George J. is at home and is in his father's employ; Catherine L. was taken ill in Rome while traveling abroad and died in Italy in March, 1906; John C., who married Miss Alice Mould, of Cheboygan, Michigan, is also in the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother, having charge of the advertising and cash accounts. He is a graduate of Harvard College.

Mr. Myers and his family are members of the Lutheran church, in which he is serving as trustee and to the support of which he is a most generous contributor. He has a summer home at Mullett Lake, at mouth of the Cheboygan river and is very fond of outdoor sports, including motoring and fishing. His town residence is the most beautiful home in Ashland. He has never been active politically although he has been frequently urged to become a candidate for office. One of his aims, however, is to build up his home town and the surrounding country and his efforts in that direction have been far-reaching and beneficial. He makes no pretense to scholarly attainments but he has something that is far better than college training - the ability to see the practi- cal worth of an opportunity. His mental strength is that which has come through training in the school of experience and all who know of him honor him for his sound judgment and keen discrimination. In manner he is never intimate but always courteous and affable and he has a wide acquaintance who hold him in high regard. The basis of his success came in his careful rearing and he has been careful in every way - morals, health and finances. His people for generations before him were of the same caliber- - thrifty and economical, realizing the value of money and willing to put forth earnest and honorable efforts for its acquirement. Added to this, Mr. Myers had an unfaltering ambition which has led him into important business relations but has never made him unmindful of his obligations to his fellowmen. He is today the financial and executive genius of an immense concern, while his brother is the possessor of the inventive and mechanical power that has also contributed to the success of this enterprise. Few men more justly deserve the term captain of industry, and his life is an open book, constituting a splendid example for all young men. It should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to those who desire to win prosperity through honorable methods. He stands as a splendid type of the American gentleman of rugged health, fine physique and of strong mind, while his contact with the world has brought him the polish which many acquire in schools. He is charitable, kindly and easily approachable and has the rare faculty of putting one immediately at ease in his presence. His success has never spoiled him and a man of upright character with no worldly possessions can win his regard and friendship just as surely and quickly as the man who has gained wealth. His is a handsome face because of its strong character, the humorous twinkle of his eye, as well as good features. None have done so much for the upbuilding of Ashland as has F. E. Myers and his brother and he is generally esteemed by his fellow townsmen who honor him for what he has accomplished but appreciate him for his genuine personal worth. He indeed stands first in the hearts of the people of his home city.

Henry R. Pippitt

Henry R. Pippitt needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for he has been a resident of Loudon ville since the close of the Civil war. Various business interests have claimed his attention and he is well known as a traveling salesman representing a Philadelphia house. In the years of his connection with the road he has learned to adapt himself readily and easily to all classes of people and is a most genial, courteous gentleman, to whom good will and friendship are freely accorded.

A native son of Ohio, Mr. Pippitt was. born in Salem, Columbiana county, December 22, 1842, a son of Joseph and Susan (Craft) Pippitt, who were natives of New Jersey. The father was born in 1800 and was a cooper by trade. Removing westward, he settled in Salem in 1825 and was there married in 1832 to Miss Craft, who was a representative of an old Quaker family and who conducted business as a milliner. Her death occurred October 30, 1862, in

Salem, while Mr. Pippitt long survived and passed away in Loudonville on the 26th of February, 1886. They were the parents of three children. Eliza J., the eldest, became the wife of John W. Bull and after his death she was a widow for twenty years. She then married M. S. Adkinson and now resides in Loudonville. William C. Pippitt is a resident of Ashland and Henry R. completes the family.

The last named was five years of age when his father purchased a farm three and a half miles southwest of Salem and upon that place Henry R. Pippitt femained until after the outbreak of the Civil war. He was only eighteen years of age when on the 8th of August, 1862, he enlisted as a member of Company G, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under command' of Colonel J. W. Riley. He took part in the campaigns in Kentucky after Morgan in that summer and fall and then crossed the mountains to Tennessee. He was also with Sherman on the Atlanta campaign and later under command of General Thomas. Following the battle of Franklin the Union troops retreated to Nashville on the 30th of November, 1864, and on the 15th and 16th of December Mr. Pippitt participated in the hotly contested battle near that city. He continued at the front until after the close of the war, being mustered out at Greensboro, North Carolina, June 17, 1865. He received his pay at Cleveland and then returned to his home.

In the meantime, however, his mother had died and his father had removed to Loudonville to reside with his daughter, so that Henry R. Pippitt came to this place. Soon afterward he went to Poughkeepsie, New York, where he entered the Eastman Business College, pursuing a course in that institution in the winter of 1865-6. He then went to Philadelphia and in 1866 went upon the road as a jobber of notions, continuing in that line of business for ten years. During the past thirty-two years he has been with Folwell Brother & Company, of Philadelphia, as traveling salesman, being upon the road for about five months each year as the representative of that house, which is engaged in the manufacture of ladies' dress fabrics. In the meantime, in 1875, he established a hardware and tinware business in Loudonville, which he conducted for six years or until 1881, although he did not give up his position as traveling salesman. For twenty-one years he has also looked after his widowed sister's estate, consisting of three hundred and fifty acres of valuable land in this county. He is a man of keen business discernment and sound judgment, carefully controlling the interests entrusted to his management and winning success in the different fields of labor to which he has directed his energies.

In 1869 Mr. Pippitt was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth M. Bull, who was born in Loudonville, Ohio, September 14, 1843, and is a daughter of Jefferson and Sarah Ann (Hibbert) Bull, natives of New England. Her uncle, George Bull, had entered one hundred and sixty acres of land adjoining Loudonville on the south at a very early period in the settlement of Ashland county. Later the parents came to this state, were married here and spent their remaining days in the county. They had four children: Quincy,

Hezekiah, Elizabeth and Jennie. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Pippitt have been born two daughters and a son: Jennie E., now the wife of James Rollins, a jeweler of Loudonville; Sarah H., at home; and Harry J., a jeweler at Port Jervis,

New York. The son is a graduate of the high school of Loudonville and spent three years in the jewelry store of his brother-in-law at this place, after which he attended the School of Horology in Philadelphia, completing the course by graduation. At the end of that time he went to New York and became associated with the jewelry business in that state. Mr. and Mrs. Pippitt are well known in Loudonville and Ashland county, where they have an extensive circle of warm friends who entertain for them the highest regard.

Fred H. Kestner

Fred H. Kestner, a representative and successful agriculturist of Milton township, was born in Monroe county, Ohio, on the 26th of November, 1855, his parents being Jacob and Anna Barbara (Pilfer) Kestner, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former born in June, 1821, and the latter on the 18th of July, 1825. When a young man of twenty years Jacob Kestner crossed the Atlantic to the United States, first locating in Monroe county, Ohio, where he was employed as a farm laborer. Subsequently he learned the trade of an iron moulder and thus worked in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, for a few years but on account of failing health he returned to Monroe county and once more became identified with agricultural pursuits. In 1845 he purchased a farm of sixty-two acres in that county, on which he continued to reside until called to his final rest in 1887. In politics he was a stalwart democrat and capably served in the office of township supervisor. His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church, while fraternally he was connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His wife was a little maiden of six years when brought to the United States, the family home being established in Baltimore, where she lived for about twelve years. She then removed to Monroe county, Ohio, where she gave her hand in marriage to Jacob Kestner in 1846, and now makes her home with her son in Milton township, having attained the venerable age of almost eighty-four years. She is a well preserved woman and remembers so distinctly the tedious and hazardous voyage to the United States in an old wooden ship that she has never had any desire to again cross the broad Atlantic. Her family numbers four children, namely: Fred H., of this review ; George L., whose birth occurred in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1857 ; W. M., born in Monroe county, Ohio, in 1866; and William S., who is a native of Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fred H. Kestner still owns the old homestead farm in Monroe county and has extended its boundaries by an additional purchase of forty acres, so that it now comprises one hundred and two acres. There are seven oil wells on this property which for a time produced abundantly. His time and energies since attaining man's estate have been devoted to the pursuit of farming, in which line of activity he has won a most enviable and well deserved measure of success. On the 4th of June, 1903, he purchased the tract of one hundred and forty-eight acres in Milton township where he now resides, having here a substantial and attractive residence and good barns. Ilis holdings thus embrace two hundred and fifty acres of valuable and well improved land, all of which has been acquired through the combined efforts of himself and his wife, for he had only one hundred and fifty dollars at the time of his marriage.

On the 27th of June, 1880, Mr. Kestner was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Eckard, who was born March 28, 1858, her father being Adam Eckard. Henry E. Kestner, their first child, was born April 21, 1881, and in 1907 wedded Miss Maud Cooper, by whom he has a son. Fraternally he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The other children of Mr. and Mrs. Fred H. Kestner are as follows: William M., who was born

March 6, 1883, and graduated from the West Lafayette Business College on the 23d of June, 1903; Charles Leonard, whose birth occurred January 15, 1890; Freda P., who passed away May 22, 1908 ; Minnie B., who was born February 8, 1894 ; and George W., whose natal day was March 25, 1897. All received their preliminary education in the common schools.

Politically Mr. Kestner is an unfaltering democrat and has served as township trustee for several terms, discharging his official duties in a prompt and efficient manner. In religious faith hejs a Lutheran and his life has ever been in harmony with his professions as a member of that church. In his business career he has met with a degree of prosperity that is indicative of his ability and enterprise, of his careful management and keen discrimination and he is now classed with the substantial residents of Ashland county.

Edward S. Briggs

Edward S. Briggs, now deceased, was numbered among the citizens of worth that Ashland county gave up with regret when death claimed him. He had for some years been associated with mercantile interests as a dealer in shoes and was at all times connected with that class of progressive men who work for substantial development and upbuilding in the communities where they reside. His birth occurred in Strongsville, Ohio, September 5, 1846, his parents being Samuel and Sarah (Watson) Briggs. His youthful days were spent under the parental roof in Ashland his parents locating there in 1850 and his time was largely given to the acquirement of an education until he reached the age of eighteen, when he made his initial step in the business world as a clerk in a dry-goods store. There he was employed until 1873, when in partnership with George Frantz he purchased a shoe store, continuing its conduct for about three years as Frantz & Briggs. On the expiration of that period he sold his interest and began business on his own account, so continuing up to the time of his death. He was always careful in the selection and purchase of his stock, studied the demands and wishes of the general public and was thus able to please the varied tastes of his patrons. His prices, too, were reasonable and in all of his dealings he was strictly honorable and reliable.

Moreover Mr. Briggs was well known as an influential and valuable citizen in public affairs. He was elected for several terms to the office of village treasurer and also served on the school board for several terms. He did every- thing in his power to promote the best interests of the community and was keenly interested in all those measures and movements which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. He gave his political allegiance to the republican party, for after careful study of its principles he deemed its platform the safest on which to build good government. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons, while his religious faith was manifest in his membership in the Congregational church and evidenced in his daily living, which was character ized at all times by a recognition of the rights of others.

On the 29th of March, 1871, Mr. Briggs was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Risser, who was born in October, 1850, and is a daughter of John and Katherine (Krehbiel) Risser, both of whom were natives of Germany. Thev were born in 1825 and 1831 respectively and were married in January, 1850. Mr. Risser came to America with his father when a lad of but seven years, the family home being established on a farm south of Ashland, which was covered with heavy timber at the time they took possession. Soon the sound of the woodman's ax awakened the echoes of the forest and continued effort and diligence were brought to play in transforming the wild land into rich and productive fields. This task was at length accomplished and John Risser became the owner of a fine farm, in the midst of which stood a beautiful residence. His earnest labor brought him a substantial competence, so that he was enabled to surround himself and his family with all of the comforts of life. He was very much interested in horses, buying and selling many and handling only those of the highest grade. In fact he had some very valuable stock and his horses were his pride. In politics he was an earnest republican, ever at the polls on election day to assist in the support of his party and in the maintenance of the principles in which he believed. He died July 8, 1885, and Mrs. Risser passed away February 27, 1905.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Edward S. Briggs was born a son, John S., whose birth occurred in December, 1873. Following his father's death, which occurred on the 25th of January, 1906, he took charge of the shoe business, which he has since conducted, following the same honorable principles and enjoying a fine trade. He, too, is a republican in his political views, a member of the Congregational church, and identified with the Masons and the Odd Fellows. His sterling qualities are widely recognized in the city where he has always lived and he has won for himself a creditable position as one of the leading merchants of Ashland. He was married May 20, 1896, to Miss Maud Riley, of Ashland, the daughter of Henry Riley, and unto them has been born one daughter, Helen Annetta.

Phillip F. Sharick

In every community there are a certain number of men around whom center the facts which have to do with the community's upbuilding and progress. s Such a one in Ashland is Phillip F. Sharick, who since 1885 has been prominently associated with mercantile interests here, being the leading jeweler of the city. Aside from this he has been very active as a member of the Board of Trade in promoting the growth of the city through securing the establishment of business industries and enterprises here. His work has at all times beeD of a practical character and he is a cooperant factor in every measure that promises to prove of substantial benefit. He has in Ashland county a circle oi friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances and therefore his history cannot fail to prove of interest to many of our readers. His birth occurred in this county, May 19, 1862, at the family home in Orange township. His parents were John and Margaret (Fluke) Shari ck. The father, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, was a lad of twelve years when he came with his parents to Ashland county, Ohio, and although but a boy, he drove a fourhorse team all the way from the old home in the Keystone state. A settlement was made in Orange township, where John Sharick grew to manhood and then, choosing as his life work the occupation to which he was reared, took up his abode upon a farm which remained his place of residence until his death, which occurred in 1889 when he was seventy years of age. He always gave his political allegiance to the democracy, while his religious faith was indicated in his membership in the Lutheran church. His wife was born in Orange township, where her entire life was passed, her death there occurring in 1896 when she was sixty years of age.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Phillip F. Sharick in his boyhood and youth. He worked in the fields through the summer months and in the winter seasons acquired his education in the district schools until fifteen years of age, when he apprenticed himself to the jeweler's trade, going to West Salem on the 1st of April, 1877, and there entering the employ of his brother, Irvin J. Sharick, who was proprietor of a jewelry store at that place. In the fall of 1880 this brother removed his business to Albuquerque, New Mexico, and in April, 1881, Phillip F. Sharick followed him to the southwest. He remained in New Mexico for four and a half years, spending the time in Albuquerque, Deming and Socorro, conducting a branch store in the last two named places for his brother, spending a year in each place. In August, 1885, he returned to Ohio and on the 1st of October of that year, opened a jewelry store in Ashland. In the intervening twenty-four years he has built up an extensive business. His store is second to few, if any, jewelry establishments in the United States in a city the size of Ashland. He has educated the people to buy good goods and does not wait until a market has been created for an article but creates it himself by introducing the product to the public. His store is tastefully and attractively arranged and the large and well selected line of goods, sold at reasonable prices, have secured him a constantly increasing patronage. He is today justly accounted one of Ashland's most prominent business men.

In 1891 Mr. Sharick was married to Miss Emma R. Heltman, a daughter of W. G. Heltman, one of the leading business men of this city and prominent in public affairs as well. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sharick has been born a daughter, Katharine, and they also have an adopted daughter, Ellen. The parents are prominent socially and the hospitality of the best homes of the city is freely accorded them.

Mr. Sharick is well known in fraternal as well as other relations. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. ; to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. 0. O. F. ; and also to the Patriarch Militant and the Rebekahs. He likewise holds membership with the Tribe of Ben Hnr and has been chief of this lodge since its organization in Ashland. Long a devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, for several years he has been a member of the board of trustees and for twenty years has acted as an usher in the church and has also long served on the music committee. He is interested in all that pertains to its growth and the extension of its influence. In politics he is somewhat liberal in his views, casting an independent local ballot, but at national elections supporting the men and measures of the democracy. However, no man has taken a more active or helpful part in promoting the welfare and progress of Ashland than has Mr. Sharick. He belongs to the Board of Trade and has been a member of the board of trustees since its organization. He has taken a most active part in securing manufacturing plants for the town and has probably done as much toward the advancement of Ashland's interests as any other one man of the city. It has been largely through the efforts of the Board of Trade that Ashland has almost doubled its population in the past eight years. Whatever he undertakes Mr. Sharick prosecutes ivith a resolute spirit and a determination that recognizes no such word as fail and thus in matters of public moment, as well as in concerns of individual enterprise, he has accomplished beneficial and far-reaching results.

First National Bank

The First National Bank of Ashland, whose financial standing and reputation has been unimpaired since the date of its organization in January, 1852, is one of the most substantial institutions in the state of Ohio, having passed through several financial flurries, still supporting its depositors on a solid ground and maintaining a degree of safety not enjoyed by many like institutions. It has always been under the management of men of ripe experience and sound judgment, whose undaunted integrity has given the institution a substantial patronage including the foremost business men of the city and adjacent territory. Fifty-seven years ago this institution was inaugurated under the name of Luther, Crall & Company, continuing under their management for twelve years. In 1863 application for a charter under the national bank law was made by Hulbert Luther, Jacob Crall, George II. Topping, James Purdy and J. 0. Jennings and, their request being granted, business was commenced in January, 1864, under the name of the First National Bank of Ashland, Ohio, its board of directors consisting of H. Luther, J. Crall, G. H. Topping, J. Purdy and J. 0. Jennings. The charter expired in 1883 but was renewed by the comptroller of currency and in 1895 the stock in the institution was owned by eleven different persons including the directors: J. Cahn, F. E. Myers, T. M. Beer, P. A.

The First National Bank is known as one of the most solid financial houses in the county, its management being in the highest sense progressive and at the same time conservative, the men at the helm being of wide business experience, honest and reliable, who transact the business of the institution on a basis designed not only to enhance their own prosperity and interests but principally to protect their depositors and to the very best advantage subserve their interests.

J. 0. Jennings, president of the institution, is a well known and highly respected citizen of Ashland, whose efforts have always been of the most pronounced character in behalf of the growth and expansion of the municipality and there is not a man in the country who entertains a more enviable reputation as a business man and banker. Joseph Patterson, who, like his associate, Mr. Jennings, is a banker of widely admitted ability, has served as cashier of the establishment since 1870. He is well versed in everything pertaining to the business and it is commonly admitted that no one is more familiar with every phase of the banking enterprise than he and for this reason through his reputation as a conservative business man many excellent patrons have been won to the institution. In fact every man connected with the First National Bank of Ashland bears closest inspection as to his integrity and business ability. F. E. Myers, of the F. E. Myers & Brother, is vice president ; A. C. Bogniard is assistant cashier; Joseph Murphy is teller and C. L. Robinson and H. J. Ambrose are bookkeepers; while the cashier is Joseph Patterson and the president, J. 0. Jennings. The institution under the direction of these men, who are numbered among the solid financial citizens of this part of the state, has been able to withstand many financial flurries and during the panic of 1893, when commercial houses and banking institutions throughout the country were going to the wall, the First National Bank of Ashland withstood the shock, carrying on its daily affairs in the usual way, its financial condition being in such a state that it was in every respect free from the depressing conditions of the times. The investments, cash on hand, its capital, surplus and undivided profits constitute in large measure the protection afforded by a banking institution to its depositors and a recent report of the First National Bank of Ashland shows the substantial character of its resources as follows:

The worth of the institution and the financial standing it has acquired in the commercial world is apparent from an article published in the Financier of

New York, which endorses the First National Bank of this city, according it the highest recommendation as a substantial financial concern, as follows :

"Owing to a typographical error the First National Bank of Ashland, Ohio, was not accorded its proper position in the National Bank Roll of Honor for the year 1906, and, in consequence, some amend is due that prosperous and enterprising institution. On August 25, 1905, the First National Bank of Ashland reported capital of fifty thousand dollars and surplus and profits seventy-two thousand, six hundred and twenty-seven dollars, making the percentage of surplus accumulation to capital one hundred and forty-five and twenty-five hundredths. The First National was therefore entitled to rank as No. 351 on the Roll of Honor of 1906, No. 16 in Ohio and first in the town of Ashland. In 1905 the bank's position on the Roll was No. 479 and in 1904 No. 598. It is evident, thereiore, that the First National is forging rapidly to the front. The latest report of the bank as made to the comptroller of the currency under date of June 18, last, shows that the surplus and profits item has been increased to eighty thousand, three hundred and fifty-nine dollars which is substantial evidence of the excellent management of the institution by its present officers.

' ' The First National of Ashland is one of the pioneer banks in the National system. It was organized as a national bank in 1864, succeeding the private bank of Luther, Crall & Company, which had been doing business since 1851. It is noteworthy that J. O. Jennings, now president of the First National, has been with the institution and its predecessor continuously for fifty-five years. He started as cashier and manager of the Crall Bank in 1851 and today in point of service is one of the oldest, if not the oldest bank officer in the state of Ohio, and for that matter in the United States. The bank since 1882 has paid no interest on deposits and the constant expansion of this item shows the confidence with which the institution is regarded by its home constituency. ' '

John M. Eberhart

John M. Eberhart, who for many years was numbered among the worthy citizens and representative farmers of Lake township, passed away on the 26th of November, 1908. He had spent his entire life in this part of the state, his birth having occurred in Wayne county, Ohio, October 15, 1843. He was a son of Joshua and Isabel (Myers) Eberhart. The former was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, April 16, 1816, and came to Ohio in 1839. He located first in Wayne county, where he remained until 1845, when he came to Ashland county. He was a cooper by trade but after removing to this state turned his attention to general farming. In 1841 he was married in Wayne county to Miss Isabel Myers and they became the parents of six children: Eliza; John

M. ; Abraham; Lewis, who married Alice Hazen ; Harriet, the wife of Mathias Bender; and Albert, who married Margaret Jones. The father held membeiship in the Lutheran church and was a man of genuine personal worth, respected by all who knew him for his substantial qualities, Ilis political allegiance was given to the republican party. He died in 1868 but his wife is still living.

John M. Eberhart spent the first fifteen years of his life in the county of his nativity and then accompanied his parents on their removal to Ashland county. He was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the fields through the summer months, while in the winter season he attended the public schools. In 1862 he responded to the country's call for troops although but nineteen years of age at the time he enlisted. He joined the boys in blue of Company C, One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry under Captain McKinley and took part in a number of important engagements, including the battles of Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post and Port Gibson. At the last named he was wounded in the left lung and from the effects he never fully recovered. He received an honorable discharge at Trenton, New Jersey, in August, 1865, after which he returned home and resumed the pursuits of peace in Lake township. He had served for almost three years, making a creditable record as a defender of the Union cause. Throughout his life he was most loyal to the country and its best interests, ever manifesting public-spirited citizenship.

In 1867 Mr. Eberhart was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca Young, who was born near her present home in Lake township, January 12, 1847. She is a daughter of James and Eliza (Stoner) Young. Her father was born in Virginia in 1815 and in 1836 came to Ohio with his father, John C. Young, who was born in Virginia, and in 1817 brought his family to Ohio, settling in Lake township, Ashland county. He was a cooper by trade but after coming to this state gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits. During his residence in Lake township he served as justice of the peace for eleven years and was township treasurer for several years. He was always interested in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community and his labors were effective in promoting the growth and upbuilding of the county. His religious faith was indicated in his membership in the Presbyterian church, while his political belief was that of the democracy. He married Rebecca Mathews of Virginia, who died in 1845. They became the parents of seven children, including James Young who, having arrived at years of maturity, was married in this county to Miss Eliza Stoner. He was reared here amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life, being but two years of age when he was brought by his parents to Ohio. Following his marriage he gave his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and was a man of diligence and industry. He belonged to the Reformed church and his political views were in harmony with the principles of the democratic party. His wife died in September, 1879. In their family were nine children, five of whom are yet living: Catharine, the wife of Tobias Wessel; Mary E., the wife of Henry Coble; Mrs. Eberhart; Sarah A., the wife of Truman Cross; and Jane, the wife of Joshua Anderson.

Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. John M. Eberhart located on the farm where the latter is still living. He gave his time and energies to the development and cultivation of his fields, his place comprising one hundred and fourteen acres on section 10, Lake township, bordering the Mohican creek and pleasantly located about a mile west of McZena. He not only owned a farm but was also engaged in the lumber business for over forty years, having a saw mill on his place, to the operation of which he gave his time and energies.

while his son carried on the work of the fields. There are two dwellings on the farm, one of which is occupied by Mrs. Eberhart and the other by a married son.

living in Loudonville and married Miss Mary Bone; Otis Emmet, who wedded Carry Welty and resides in Wayne county; Melvin, who married Araminta Pierce and makes his home in Loudonville; Charles, who died at the age of twenty-one years ; Montford, who married Ettie Farris and is living on the home farm ; Clyde and Roy, who are at home with their mother.

The death of the husband and father occurred November 26, 1908, at his home in Lake township, whereon he had resided continuously for more than forty years. At the time of his death one of the local papers said: "Mr.

Eberhart was a kind neighbor, a good citizen and a man of unswerving integrity. Fond of -a harmless joke his word was a perfect guarantee of any agreement he made. Thus one by one the survivors of the struggle from '61 to '65 fall before the relentless reaper that no human power can stay and soon the last one will come with faltering steps and with quavering voice answer to the last roll call - ' here. ' "

Oscar Snyder

Oscar Snyder resides on a farm on section 15, Green township, and he and his father are the only white men that have ever been possessors of the property. Years ago undoubtedly Indians roamed over what are now the fertile fields of the Snyder farm, but the land at that time was covered with a dense forest growth. It was upon this farm that Oscar Snyder was born August 2, 1850, his parents being David and Mary (McManus) Snyder. The father's birth occurred in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, December 4, 1803, and he remained in the place of his nativity until his removal to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1832. Here he spent the remainder of his life and from the government entered the land which is now the home of his son, Oscar. He continued his residence in this county throughout his remaining days, his life's labors being terminated on the 9th of November, 1877. In connection with farming he had operated a blacksmith shop on the old home place, having learned the trade in Pennsylvania before his removal to this state. When he arrived in Ohio and took possession of his farm not a stick had been cut nor an improvement made. He built a little cabin and at once began clearing the land, cutting down the trees, burning the brush, grubbing up the stumps and thus preparing the fields for cultivation. After a time he replaced the first cabin by a larger and more substantial one that is still standing on the place, and in 1854 he built the farm residence to which his son, Oscar Snyder, has made additions. He led a quiet, uneventful but useful and honorable life, meriting and receiving the respect and good will of his friends and neighbors. He was a member of the Lutheran church and his life was in harmony with his professions. His political support was given to the democracy. In early manhood he wedded Mary McManus, who was born in May, 1809, and died on the 19th of July, 1873.

.Her mother was a niece of Alexander Hamilton. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. David Snyder were eleven children, nine of whom lived to years of maturity. Their first-born, Harriett, died in infancy. Humphrey and David are also now deceased. Rebecca is the widow of Peter Leidigh and is living in

Levi Leidigh, a brother of Peter and resides in Mohican township. Lucinda is the widow of John Stephens and also lives in Mohican township. Sarah is the widow of James Crone and is a resident of Green township. Ella died at the age of fifty-nine years. Loving is the widow of L. P. Gladden, of Perrysville, Ohio.

Oscar Snyder, who is the youngest of the family, has always resided upon the farm which is now his home, having here eighty acres of which constitutes the west half of the northeast quarter of section 15, Green township. All of the improvements upon the property were made by him or his father, the farm having been in possession of the family since 1832. It is now well developed, the fields responding readily to the care and labor which is bestowed upon them, so that Mr. Snyder annually harvests good crops. He displays a spirit of undaunted energy in his work and his sound judgment and keen business discernment are manifest in the success which now attends him.

On thel2th of October, 1879, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Jennings, who was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, January 3, 1855. She came to Ashland county in 1875 to visit ah aunt and here formed the acquaintance of Mr. Snyder, to whom she eventually gave her hand in marriage. She is a daughter of David and Margaret J. (McNeil) Jennings, the former born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1818, while the latter was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and spent her entire life there. Mr. Jennings went to that county when twenty years of age and continued to reside there throughout his remaining days. He was a shoemaker by trade. In the Jenning's family there were nine children. Unto Mr. and Mrs Snyder has been born one son, Arthur, who is now a teacher in the schools of Green township. Having spent his entire life here. Mr. Snyder is widely known and his substantial qualities have gained him the warm friendship of all with whom he has been brought in contact, while his carefully directed business affairs have gained him a substantial measure of success.

E. A. Kauffman, now serving as health officer and superintendent of sewers of Ashland, is a native of Bryan, Williams county, Ohio, born March 24, 1858, a son of John and Eva (Oxender) Kauffman. His father, who was born near Berne, Switzerland, in August, 1836, came to the United States about the year 1854, locating in Nankin, Ashland county, where he learned the trade of blacksmithing. After becoming a journeyman he removed to Williams county, where he remained for two years, returning in 1860 to this county, taking up his residence at Polk, where he has since resided and follows his occupation as

E. A. Kauffman is indebted to the public schools for his education and he remained at home until he was nineteen years of age at which period of his life he began his career as a railroad man, securing work on the repair gang of the Erie Railroad. He followed this occupation for about three years, at the end of which time, owing to his excellent services, he was promoted to foreman of the gang, the duties of which responsible position he performed for sixteen years. In 1902, owing to his experience and ability in construction work, he was selected to assist in building the Ashland sewer system and on account of the superior judgment he evidenced in this line of work he was appointed superintendent of sewers and supervised the construction of the city's present sewer system, which stands as a monument to his skill in this class of engineering. In 1905, Mr. Kauffman was appointed to the position of city health officer, in the duties of which he is now engaged, his services in this line being greatly to the advantage of the municipality.

In 1880, Mr. Kauffman wedded Miss Ada Shaffer, a native of Polk, Ashland county, and to this union were born four children, two of whom survive, namely: Nathan Waldo, who is employed in sewer construction here; and James A., a moulder of this city. Mr. Kauffman's political affiliations have always been with the democratic party, to the candidates of which he has always been loyal and he belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., and Ashland Chapter, R. A. M., and is also a member of Montgomery Lodge, No. 355, K. of P., and of Excelsior Camp, No. 3287, M. W. A. He is one of the most popular and efficient officials of the city whose congenial manner and superior abilities justly rank him among the city's best men.

Roomfield. J. Wharton

Roomfield J. Wharton, who is engaged in general farming in Montgomery township, was born April 30, 1860. His education was acquired in the common schools and he spent his boyhood and youth on his father's farm and assisted him in the work of the fields up to the time of his marriage. He then rented land, which he cultivated for about five years, during which time his industry and his careful expenditure enabled him to save some capital. r This he invested in about two hundred acres of land, upon which he now resides. In the intervening years he has devoted his time and energies to its further development and improvement, converting the place into a fine farm, supplied with all the modern conveniences and accessories. In 1892, he repaired his barns and everything about his place is complete, bespeaking the careful supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In 1895 he erected a fine residence, which is tastefully and comfortably furnished. He deals quite extensively in sheep and hogs and also handles fine coach horses in addition to carrying on general farming. Each year he gathers rich crops, while his sale of stock also adds

On the 29th of March, 1882, Mr. Wharton was united in marriage to Miss Jennie May Vantilburg, who was born December 25, 1860, and is a daughter of Francis A. Yantilburg, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Wharton have two children : Mrs. Floy Olive Shidler, born January 13, 1887 ; and Ray Edwin, who was born October 23, 1895, and is now attending school.

Mr. Wharton votes with the democracy and in his religious faith is a Methodist. He displays many of the sterling qualities of progressive citizenship, withholding his support from no measure or movement which he deems will prove of value to the community. His life in all of its prominent phases measures up to the full standard of honorable manhood and he is in touch with the -progress which each day should bring forth and which is conserved by each generation as the years are added to the cycle of the centuries.

Melancthon Farnsworth

Melancthon Farnsworth who since February, 1903, has been numbered among the representative and substantial residents of Nankin, gives general supervision to his farm of one hundred and fifty-seven acres in Orange township, devoted to the raising of grain and stock. He was born in Monroe county, Ohio, on the 24th of February, 1856, his parents being Howard and Nancy (Cronin) Farnsworth, who were likewise natives of the Buckeye state. The Farnsworths were from Pennsylvania, whence a removal was made to Monroe county, Ohio, David Farnsworth, the grandfather of our subject being the first to arrive. He cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers and took up land from the government, transforming it into a well cultivated farm as the years passed by. In 1856 he again emigrated westward, this time with Iowa as his destination and in that state he resided until his death. His entire life was given to general agricultural pursuits and he was a man of great force of character, who left the impress of his individuality for good upon the community.

Howard Farnsworth, the father of our subject, was born in Monroe county, Ohio, and became a prominent and influential .citizen in religious and educational circles, at all times giving loyal aid and support to any movement or measure that tended to promote the intellectual or moral progress of the community. Moreover, he was a prosperous farmer and was highly respected by all who knew him. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability frequently called him to public office and he served for many years as township treasurer, being a most faithful custodian of the public funds. His life record was at all times honorable and upright, constituting an example well worthy of emulation. He died April 8, 1859, at the age of fifty-nine years and was laid to rest at Reedhouse, West Virginia. His wife, Mrs. Nancy Farnsworth, had died

Melancthon Farnsworth was reared to agricultural pursuits and attended the district schools of his native county in the acquirement of an education. He was identified with general farming in Monroe county until 1892 and subsequently began the operation of a saw mill there, being thus engaged until 1902, since which time he has lived retired from active business, though he still gives supervision to his interests. On the 9th of February, 1903, he took up his abode in Nankin and has since looked after his excellent farm of one hundred and fiftyseven acres in Orange township, where general farming and stock raising is successfully and profitably carried on. In addition to his farm he owns an excellent residence in the village.

Mr. Farnsworth has been married twice. On the 7th of September, 1873, he wedded Miss Sarah J. Markley, a daughter of Jacob and Mahala (Hupp) Markley, of Monroe county, Ohio, the father being an agriculturist. By this union there were born five children, namely: Lucetta F., the wife of Albert Stockhouse; Emma A., now Mrs. James Steed; Oliver F. ; Mary Bernice, the wife of William Matheny; and Alma E., who is the wife of Frank Rose. The mother of these children passed away June 13, 1894, and on the 26th of March, 1898, Mr. Farnsworth was again married, his second union being with Miss Lydia A. Pryor, a daughter of Euphronius and Susanna (Ruble) Pryor.

In his political views Mr. Farnsworth was formerly a democrat and served as trustee in Wayne township, Monroe county, but for the past fifteen years has taken no active interest in politics. He is, however, an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, favoring all movements and measures for the advancement of the general welfare along material, intellectual and moral lines. He and his family are devoted and consistent members of the Disciple church, in which he has served as an elder for many years and has also acted as Sunday school superintendent, being helpfully interested in all departments of the church work. He is a genial and courteous gentleman and his position in public regard is one of prominence.

Samuel P. Eby

Samuel P. Eby, a successful and well known farmer and stock raiser of Orange township, was born on the 25th of December, 1848, in Milton township, Ashland county, Ohio, a son of John and Martha (Hiller) Eby, both of whom are now deceased. They came as children from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, to Ohio with their respective parents, who made the journey westward in wagons, settling in Ashland county when this district was almost entirely covered with timber. John Eby, the father of our subject, carried on farming and stock raising throughout his active business career and reared a family of eleven children, five sons and six daughters, namely: Catherine, Jeremiah, Samuel P., Eliza, Harriet, Lavina, Jacob, Martha, Angeline, John and Emanuel, all of whom still survive.

SamuelP. Eby received his education in the district schools and remained on his father's farm until he had attained his majority. At the age of twentyfour years he was married and subsequently spent two years on the old homestead farm, on the expiration of which period he came to his present place in Orange township, where he has since been engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock raising, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. He likewise followed threshing for twentyfour years and also baled hay and the success which has attended his efforts is but the well earned reward of his untiring industry and unfaltering energy.

On the 9th of December, 1872, Mr. Eby was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Beam, a daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Ganguer) Beam. The father, an agriculturist of Milton township, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eby have been born six children, as follows : Alice, the wife of Frank Hazlett, of Ashland; Lester, a resident of Nankin; Harriet, who became the wife of Herbert Gurey, of Lodi; Bertha, who is the wife of Byron McFadden; Emma, who passed away at the age of three years; and Frank M.

Politically Mr. Eby is a stalwart democrat and an active worker in the local ranks of the party, being a member of the county central committee and a frequent delegate to conventions. He was elected infirmary director in 1900, thus serving for two terms or six years, has likewise been township trustee for a period of six years and is now a member of the school board. His aid and influence can ever be counted upon to further any measure instituted to advance the general welfare and he is a strong champion of public improvements along educational, moral and other lines. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is serving as trustee and is also a Sunday-school worker, acting at one time as superintendent. His entire life has been passed in this county and his fellow townsmen know that his record has been characterized by fidelity to duty and by honor in all his relations with his fellowmen.

Samuel Young

Samuel Young is the owner of a well improved farm, supplied with good buildings, his attention being given to general farming and stock raising. His specialty in the latter line is Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle, and his business is well conducted and is bringing him a substantial return. He was born in Mifflin township, Ashland county, August 20, 1843, and there resided until he came to his present farm in 1870. He is a son of Michael and Katharine (Berlean) Young, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania as were the paternal grandparents, Mathias and Mary Young. The latter couple, removing to this state, spent their last days in Ashland county. The maternal grandparents of our subject were John and Mary Ann Berlean, who were likewise born in the Keystone state and died in Ashland county. Mathias Young was a soldier of the Revolutionary war, while John Berlean served his country in the war of 1812 and was at Baltimore during the hostilities there. The Berlean homestead, upon which the mother of our subject was born, was situated in Pennsylvania on the Maryland state line.

The birth of Michael Young occurred in Union county, Pennsylvania, after which he removed to Center county and later to Huntingdon county in the same state. From that point he accompanied his parents on their removal to Mifflin township about 1820 and Katharine Berlean arrived about a year later. They were married here and became residents of Mifflin township, taking up their abode on a farm within its borders immediately after their marriage and remaining there until called to their final rest. Their home was pleasantly located about two and a half miles northeast of the village of Mifflin. The father passed away in 1869 at the age of sixty-nine years, while the mother died in July, 1900, at the age of eighty years.

In their family were eleven children : Mathias, who died in infancy ; Mary, who died at the age of nine years; Samuel, of this review; John, who died at the age of twenty-one years ; Elizabeth, who passed away when twelve years of age ; Katharine, who died at the age of ten years ; Martha, the wife of Sam Eighinger, of Arkansas; Michael, who was but four years old when he passed away; Jacob, who died at the age of two and a half years ; Cyrus, living in Bowling Green, Ohio; and Michael, who is the second of the name and now resides in Montgomery township. Of these Elizabeth, Katharine, Michael and Jacob all died of scarlet fever and diphtheria within four days ' time.

In his boyhood days Samuel Young learned the carpenter's trade and was in the employ of the United States government in Tennessee and in Georgia in 1863-4, being connected with the commissary department. He was not, however, a regularly enlisted man. The remainder of his life has been spent upon the farm on which his birth occurred and on the farm which is now his home. On the latter place he has lived for thirty-nine years, having here one hundred and fifty-six and three-fourths acres of rich land, pleasantly situated a mile and a half west of Jeromeville on section 1, Vermillion township. Its good buildings and well tilled fields make it a highly improved farm. All of the buildings were erected by Mr. Young and include a large barn, forty by one hundred feet, with twenty feet posts. There were log buildings on the place when he took possession but one by one he has replaced the pioneer structures by commodious and modern ones, which indicate his progressive spirit. His residence is a fine home, attractively furnished and its hospitality is one of its most pleasing features. Mr. Young devotes his time to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and is also meeting with success as a raiser of Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle.

In 1870 occurred the marriage of Air. Young and Miss Elizabeth Kelley, who was born August 15, 1853, in Vermillion township, a daughter of Luther and Sarah (Wolf) Kelley, who were natives of Pennsylvania but came to this county in the spring of 1850 and spent their remaining days here. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Young has been blessed with three children: Herbert A., a farmer living in Montgomery township, who is married and has four children, Ralph, Nellie, Raymond and Samuel ; George Leslie, at home ; and Stella Olivia, who is the widow of Dr. William II. Dennis and lives on the old homestead.

She has one child, Roscoe Harold. Mr. and Mrs. Young are members of the Lutheran church at Jerome ville and are people of genuine personal worth, their many good qualities winning for them the esteem and confidence of all who know them.

David Hunter

David Hunter, who is meeting with success as a general farmer and stock dealer, is also well known in financial and industrial circles of Perrysville as a stockholder in several large and important concerns which are proving, factors in the business activity and progress of the city. A native of Green township, Ashland county, Ohio, he was born on a farm a mile and a half from Loudonville on the 14th of July, 1854, a son of John and Mary (Dowell) Hunter, natives of Ireland and Holmes county, Ohio, respectively. The father came to America in early boyhood with his parents who died soon after their arrival in this country. He was reared by his older sisters in Green township, Ashland county, where he eventually married and made his home until his demise. He engaged in farming as a life work and became very successful as an agriculturist, owning at the time of his death seven hundred and fifty acres of farm land, most of which was situated in Green township, Ashland county. John Hunter and his wife were the parents of seven children, namely: John, a resident of Green township; David, of this review; Amos, residing in Richland county; Lewis, living in Green township; Reuben; Mary; and Jane, the widow of John Rowe, of Perrysville.

Reared under the parental roof, David Hunter spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm, assisting in the general work of the farm and at the same time acquiring valuable knowledge of the methods of tilling the soil that should serve as a good foundation for his subsequent success in this line of business activity. After his marriage, however, he purchased one hundred and fortyseven acres of land from his father adjoining the corporation lihiits of Perrysville on the east, which place he has since continued to make his home. He is also the owner of eighty acres of farm land adjoining the corporation limits of Perrysville on the west, making a total of two hundred and twenty-seven acres. Aside from general farming pursuits, during the past ten years Mr. Hunter has devoted much time and attention to the buying and shipping of stock of all kinds, and in all of his undertakings he has been eminently successful. As he has prospered he has extended his interests into other directions and today is a director and stockholder in the Perrysville Banking Company, a company composed of five members with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, Mr. Hunter owning a fifth of the stock. He is likewise a stockholder in the Perrysville Pottery Company and of the Roofing Tile Company, and his connection with these concerns has brought him into important relations with the financial and industrial interests of the city and placed him among the representative and influential citizens of the community.

The year 1877 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Hunter and Miss Susan Boney, a native of Mercer county, Pennsylvania, whose birth occurred in September, 1855. She came to Ohio in early childhood in company with her parents, Levi and Lydia Boney, both natives of Pennsylvania. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Hunter are five sons: Edward, a resident of Perrysville, who is acting in the capacity of engineer at the Perrysville Pottery Company's plant; John, of Freedom, Pennsylvania, an engineer on the Pennsylvania Railroad; Burton, a farmer of Green township; Floyd and Ernest, both still at home. Having spent his entire life in this county, Mr. Hunter has formed a wide acquaintance here and many of his warmest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood days, while in business circles he has won an envious position, not only because of the success which is his but because of the honorable and upright methods he has at all times employed.

Daniel Snyder

Daniel Snyder, owning and operating a well improved and valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 15, Green township, is a native son of Ashland county, his birth having occurred on the farm on which he now resides on the 12th of December, 1867. His parents were Henry and Sarah Anna (Black) Snyder, the former born February 27, 1827, and the latter May 25, 1832. The paternal grandfather, who came to this county from Pennsylvania, bought a tract of one hundred and twenty-two acres in Green township and here spent his remaining days. This farm afterward came into possession of Henry Snyder, the father of our subject, who resided thereon throughout the greater part of his life. The maternal grandfather, Samuel Black, likewise came to this county from the Keystone state, taking up his abode in the vicinity of McKay, in which town his demise occurred when he had attained the venerable age of ninety-two years. His daughter, Mrs. Snyder, was called to her final rest on the 26th of August, 1894. Her family numbered eleven children, three of whom died in early life, while eight still survive. The record is as follows : Samuel M., who is deceased; Henry Franklin, a resident of Green township; James Buchanan, of Columbus ; Mary Ellen, the wife of Amos Hunter, of Mansfield; John Snyder, who makes his home in Lake township; Willis and Emma Bell, both of whom have passed away ; Daniel, of this review ; Elverta, the wife of George Thomas, of Green township; Anna Eliza Cordelia, the wife of Sam Budd, of Green township ; and Charles, a resident of Vermillion township.

Daniel Snyder lost his father when only about twelve years of age and, being one of a large family, was early obliged to provide for his own support, working as a farm hand by the month as soon as old enough to handle the plow. In 1902 he bought the home farm of one hundred and twenty-two acres and also an adjoining tract of land, so that his property now embraces one hundred and sixty acres on section 15, Green township. It is situated on the Perrysville and McKay road, a mile and a half from McKay and three miles from Perrysville. On the farm are good outbuildings as well as a commodious and attrac- live residence and a substantial barn, which was built by Mr. Snyder after the old one was destroyed by fire. He has brought the fields into a state of rich fertility, so that he annually harvests good crops and derives therefrom a gratifying income and, being not only progressive but also thoroughly practical in his methods, he carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.

On the 4th of October, 1902, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Gladys Yesta McClure, whose birth occurred in Vermillion -township, Ashlanu county, March 26, 1884, her parents being Louis and Josephine (Huston) McClure, who are natives of this county and make their home in Vermillion township. Their family numbered five children, namely: Mrs. Snyder; James C., who died in infancy; Lottie Pearl, at home; Dollie May, who likewise passed away in infancy; and Lula Flossie, who is also yet under the parental roof. Both Mr. and Mrs. Snyder are representatives of old and well known families of Ashland county, where they have spent their entire lives, their many sterling characteristics having gained for them kindly regard and warm friendship.

Benjamin Franklin Humphrey

Persistent, earnest labor has won for Benjamin Franklin Humphrey a creditable and satisfactory measure of success. He is still giving his undivided time and attention to general farming, which he conducts on section 23, Green township. He was born in Vermillion township, Ashland county, on the 14th of December, 1857, and has spent his entire life in this part of the state. He was a son of John and Rebecca (Tawney) Humphrey. The father's birth occurred in Vermillion township, November 6, 1832, while the mother was born in Pennsylvania, March 1, 1834. The paternal grandparents were Andrew and Mary (Humphrey) Humphrey, who were of Irish lineage but it is not definitely known whether they were natives of Ireland or not. They cast in their lot with the early settlers of Ashland county, sharing with the pioneers all the hardships and privations incident to establishing a home on the frontier. Reared to farm work John Humphrey made that pursuit his life occupation and always maintained his residence in this county. Both he and his wife passed away on the 14th of December, 1906. Both suffered from pneumonia and they passed away on the anniversary of the birthday of their son, Benjamin. In his early life John Humphrey had been a carpenter and was connected with building operations to some extent, but always owned a farm. He had forty acres of land which he tilled in connection with work at his trade. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and he served as township trustee and as assesor of Green township. In all of his official duties he displayed an unfaltering loyalty to the trust reposed in him as well as marked ability in discharging his duties. Unto him and his wife were born eight children: Mrs. Mary Bittinger who is living in Green township; Mrs. Emma

Kellogg, of Marion county; Andrew, who died March 27, 1877, at the age of twenty-two years; Benjamin Franklin; H. S., who is a resident of Green town-

In his boyhood days Benjamin F. Humphrey became a pupil in the public schools and mastered the branches of learning therein taught. In the periods of vacation he was engaged in farm work and lessons of industry and enterprise were impressed upon his mind. He learned how best to till the fields and produce good crops, so that the farm annually gives a maximum yield in the corn, wheat and other cereals which are here raised. The place comprises one hundred and twenty-five acres lying in sections 14 and 23, Green township, his home being on the latter section. He has lived on this farm for sixteen years but expects soon to leave it and remove to Loudonville, where he will remain until he finds another farm which he wishes to purchase.

On the 26th of June, 1879, Mr. Humphrey was united in marriage to Miss Emma Shaffer, who was born in Green township, May 12, 1861, and is a daughter of Peter and Susan (Black) Shaffer. They now have two children : Gertrude M., the wife of J. M. Kettering, of Loudonville; and Charles W., living in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey have many friends in the community and enjoy the hospitality of the best homes. Mr. Humphrey is recognized as a man of good business judgment and sound discernment, whose energy has brought to him a well merited measure of success.

Dr. J. M. Bittinger was born July 21, 1849, on the farm which is now his home and here he has resided continuously to the present time. His parents were Daniel and Susannah (Colliflower) Bittinger, natives of Bedford county, Pennsylvania and of Maryland, respectively. In her girlhood days Mrs. Bittinger accompanied her parents to the Keystone state and there she was reared and married in 1827 and removal was made from Pennsylvania to Ohio, the parents of our subject locating about eight miles east of the home of their son, Dr. Bittinger, in Lake township which was then a part of Wayne county. Soon afterward, however, they came to the farm on which the Doctor now lives and their remaining days were here passed. The father secured one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 11, Union township, about a mile west of McKay and as most of it was covered with timber when it came into his possession, with characteristic energy he began to clear the farm and through his persistent labors brought the fields under a high state of cultivation. His religious faith was strong and abiding and proved the guiding spirit in his life. He was active in the German Lutheran church and later in the German Reformed church. As a citizen he was interested in all public affairs pertaining to the progress and upbuilding of the community and gave stalwart allegiance to the democratic party. He held various township offices and was an ardent champion of the cause of education doing all in his power to advance the interests of the schools. His family numbered seven children : Sarah, who died at the age of seventy-two years ; Katharine, who died when about twenty years of age ;

Daniel and George, who passed away in childhood; Leah, the wife of M. C. Heifner, of Green township, who is living on a part of her father's farm; Anna, who died when about fifty-seven years of age; and Joseph M. There was also an adopted son, W. T. Bittinger, who is living in this township on a part of the Bittinger homestead; and they likewise reared a little orphan girl, Maggie Grimes.

In his youthful days Dr. Bittinger entered the public schools and acquainted himself with the branches of learning therein taught. He afterward became a pupil in the Green Town Academy and subsequently read medicine with Dr. James Yocum, while later he continued his reading under the direction of Dr. E. V. Kending for a time. He attended the lectures of the Cleveland Medical College in 1882 and lacked but one term of completing the course when ill health forced him to abandon his studies. He has farmed here in addition to practicing and has twenty-six acres of the old home property which originally comprised one hundred and sixty acres. He is naturally a man of literary tastes and studious habits and has always been a broad reader and a deep thinker. He takes great interest in many lines of literature and is a well informed man, thoroughly understanding the vital questions of the present day.

On the 26th of November, 1877, Dr. Bittinger was united in marriage to Miss Mary M. Humphrey, who was born in Green township, Ashland county, November 10, 1851, and is a daughter of John and Rebecca (Tawney) Humphrey, both of whom are natives of Green township and spent their entire lives on a farm in Ashland county. The former was a son of Andrew and Mary (Humphrey) Humphrey, who were of Irish lineage and became pioneer residents of this part of Ohio. They lived in a little log cabin home amid the conditions and environments of pioneer life, often having to build fires at night to keep the wolves away. There were various wild animals in the woods and Indians yet frequently visited the neighborhood. Much arduous labor was demanded in opening up the new farms, but the pioneer settlers were a courageous, industrious class of people who were willing to meet conditions on the frontier in order to secure homes for themselves and families. Andrew and Mary Humphrey had a large family of children. The Tawney family was also founded here in pioneer times, the grandparents of Mrs. Bittinger being Michael and Katharine (de Haven) Tawney, who were natives of Pennsylvania and were among the early residents of Ashland county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Humphrey were born eight children: Mrs. Bittinger; Emma, the wife of W. H. Kellogg, of

Marion county, Ohio; Andrew J., who died at the age of twenty-two years; Frank and Harvey S., both residents of Green township; John, living in Mansfield, Ohio; Michael, of Orange township, Ashland county; and Della, the wife of Charles Reagan, of Montgomery township.

Dr. and Mrs. Bittinger have one son, Howard Thayer, who was born in Green township, May 22, 1879, and is now a school teacher. He married Miss Libby Goard.

Dr. Bittinger was coroner of Ashland county for six years, or three terms. He has also served as township appraiser and as justice of the peace. He has always given his political allegiance to the democracy and is greatly interested in social and economic questions, which constitutes a vital force in the history of the state and nation. He is by no means a self centered man but one who in thought reaches out to the world's problems and its work, while his opinions are influencing factors among those who know him, for they regard his judgment as sound and reliable.

Charles F. Spencer

Charles F. Spencer, a prominent agriculturist of Sullivan township, this county, who is well known in Grand Army circles and descends from a pioneer family of this state, was born September 14, 1846, on the place where he now resides, his grandparents Joseph W. a soldier of the war of 1812, and Biddie (Archbold) Spencer, having come to this state from Maryland in the early pioneer days and were well known as influential people throughout the county. The grandfather was a soldier of the war of 1812 while the father Charles F. is a son of David G. a captain of the state militia, and Margaret (Ferrell) Spencer, who came here from Harrison county, this state in the early '30s. Upon their arrival almost the entire country was a vast forest, the only highways being a road running east and west and another running north and south through the village of Sullivan and these roads in that day were little more than blazed trails. Their first work upon reaching the land was to erect a log cabin and after having secured comfortable shelter they began to clear and cultivate the land. Little by little they succeeded in accomplishing the undertaking and soon they had a portion of the property in such condition as to submit to the plow and yield grain, part of which they used to supply their own immediate necessities and the remainder they hauled to the markets at Sandusky, Milan and Elyria. Here they spent their lives in agricultural pursuits and reared a family, among whom were: Joseph W., a retired farmer of Alta Yista, Kansas, and a veteran of the Civil war; Mary E., wife of Edsel W. Chamberlain, of Oberlin; and Charles F.

Charles F. Spencer acquired his education in the district schools, in the meantime engaging in the duties of his father's farm, where he remained until he was sixteen years of age. On February 28, 1863, he enlisted in the Twentyfifth Independent Battery, of the Ohio Light Artillery, and saw active service in the western army until December 13, 1865. During the conflict he was injured, at Little Rock, Arkansas, the marks of which are still apparent. After the war Mr. Spencer resumed farming in Sullivan township, where he has since resided with the exception of four years spent in Kansas, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits in Elk county, from 1872 to 1876. In connection with producing general crops and stock raising he carries on a dairy business and has gained quite a reputation for the quality of his dairy products and his liberal patronage has made the enterprise one of the most lucrative.

On December 28, 1868, he wedded Miss Alice Close, daughter of Nathaniel and Amanda (Naylor) Close, the family being originally from New England and the first white one to settle in this township. To this union have been born three children, namely: Ella, the wife of Marion Wells, of Cleveland, Ohio;