Ashland City (part 42 of 57)

In the public schools of his native city Joseph E. Mayner pursued his education and from early boyhood has been more or less dependent upon his own resources for a living. When but a young lad he worked at such tasks as he could secure to assist in the support of his mother, who had been left a widow when the son was but three months old. At fifteen years of age he secured a position in the Myers Brothers shops and for nine years was identified with that industry, during which time his close application and unfaltering energy won him several promotions. He was afterward appointed a mail carrier and for almost nine years was connected with the postoffice service, but in August, 1907, resigned that position to enter mercantile fields, purchasing a third interest in the dry-goods business of J. Brubaker & Company, at which time the firm name was changed to Brubaker, Moore & Mayner. He is now bending his energies to the development of this business, the firm having one of the largest and most successful dry-goods houses of the city.

On the 29th of October, 1903, Mr. Mayner was married to Miss Bertha V. Gnagey, of Ashland, and unto them has been born 'a little daughter, Emily Mabel. In his political views Mr. Mayner is a republican and is interested in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of the town. He belongs to the Volunteer Firemen's Association and cooperates in other movements for the welfare and improvement of Ashland. He holds membership in the Presbyterian church and is socially popular, being a valued member of the Colonial and Commercial Clubs. He is prominent among the younger merchants of Ashland and certainly deserves much credit for what he has accomplished.

Friederic Feichter

Friederic Feichter, a prominent and successful farmer and stock .raiser of Ashland county, was born in Hanover township, on the Mount Vernon and Columbus road, three miles south of the place on which he now resides, his natal day being October 14, 1851. His parents, John and Maria (Derr) Feichter, were both natives of Germany, the father's birth occurring in Wittenberg on the 19th of April, 1803, while the mother first opened her eyes to the light of day on the 15th of March, 1804. John Feichter came to the United States alone. and first took up his abode at Massillon, while the lady who afterward became his wife was brought to the new world by her parents, who located in Loudonville. The parents of our subject were married in Hanover township, Ashland county, August 27, 1847, and subsequently the father, who was an agriculturist by occupation, settled on the farm on which the birth of his son Friederic occurred, successfully continuing its cultivation and development until he passed away on the 3d of August, 1871. He had for two years survived his wife, who was called to her final rest on the 13th of September, 1869. Unto them were born two children: John, who died March 22, 1860, when eleven years of age; and Friederic, of this review.

The last named remained on the farm where he was born until thirty-five years of age and still owns the property, which is a highly cultivated and valuable tract of land of two hundred and sixty-five acres. Since 1886, however, he has resided on his farm of one hundred and thirteen acres, one mile south of Loudonville and is here carrying on his general farming interests, also making a specialty of stock raising. Both his places are improved with good buildings and the fertile fields annually yield golden harvests in return for the care and labor that is bestowed upon them. Mr. Feichter is likewise a stockholder in the First National Bank of Loudonville and in a coal mine at New Salisbury and

In 1870 Mr. Feichter was united in marriage to Miss Phoebe Meitzler, who was born June 3, 1848, in Adams township, Coshocton county, Ohio, where she resided until she became the wife of Mr. Feichter. Her parents, John and Barbara (Froelich) Meitzler, were natives of Germany but were married in this country. The father died on the old home farm in Coshocton county but is still survived by his widow, who has now attained the venerable age of eightyone years and makes her home at Magnolia, Ohio. Mrs. Feichter has but one brother, John H., a resident of Magnolia, Ohio. By her marriage she has become the mother of three children, namely: Barbara Ann, the wife of William F. Arnholt, of Richland county, by whom she has five children; John Henry, who died in infancy; and B. F., at home.

Politically Mr. Feichter is a stalwart democrat but has never sought nor desired public office, though both township and county positions have frequently been tendered him. He has, however, acted as president of the township board of education and has done valuable service for the cause of public instruction. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Evangelical church of Loudonville, in the work of which he is actively and helpfully interested. His entire life has been passed in Ashland county and he feels a commendable local pride in its advancement, while his efforts have been an element in its development and growth along various lines.

Horace H. Harkness

Horace H. Harkness, a venerable, respected and influential citizen of Orange township, was born in Chautauqua county, New York, on the 28th of September, 1829, a son of Thomas and Samantha (Delana) Harkness, who came to Ohio in 1838, the father becoming identified with farming pursuits near Wellington. In 1838 the family removed to Nankin, in Orange township, Ashland county, where Thomas Harkness was engaged in the hotel business for a number of years. Subsequently he followed teaming between Ashland, Wellington and Lorain at a period prior to the era of railroads. He likewise operated a stage line between Ashland and Oberlin, carrying passengers and mail. He was a man of wonderful energy and considerable executive ability who stood high in the esteem of all with whom he came in contact, his labors proving no unimportant factor in the early development and upbuilding of this section of the state. He was accidentally killed by a railroad train in 1874.

Horace H. Harkness assisted his father in his various business undertakings and became a conspicuous and popular driver on the stage line operated by the latter. In early manhood, however, he learned the trade of a harness-maker and successfully followed that occupation in Nankin for a number of years. In 1855 he removed to Iowa, where he remained for about two years and also spent one year at Knoxville, Illinois. In the spring of 1863 he returned to Orange township and has since resided here with the exception of the year

1893, when he lived in Columbus, Ohio. He has comprehensive and accurate knowledge of the early annals of this section of the state and, being a man of broad intelligence and remarkable memory, can relate in interesting manner many incidents and experiences of pioneer times.

Mr. Harkness has been married twice. In January, 1852, he wedded Miss Nancy Campbell, a daughter of Daniel and Ann Campbell. The father was an agriculturalist of Orange township and, like Thomas Harkness, was also for a time engaged in the hotel business in Nankin. The Campbells were among the early pioneers of this section of the state and became prominent factors in its progress and upbuilding along many lines. Unto Mr. Harkness and his first wife were born three children, namely: Thomas, Dora J. and Samantha A. Mrs. Nancy Harkness passed away in 1866 and on the 16th of September, 1869, Mr. Harkness was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Mary Lane Jacobs, by whom he has a son, Barton C., born on the 23d of June, 1873. In every relation of life Mr. Harkness has been faithful to the trust reposed in him and during his entire career, now covering a period of four score years, has fully merited the good will and regard uniformly accorded him.

Thomas H. Moore

Thomas H. Moore is one of the youngest attorneys of the Ashland bar yet his years do not seem a barrier to his progress and his reputation is such as many an older man might well envy. His industry is so unfaltering and his preparation of cases so thorough that he presents his case in the strong, clear light of reason while his adaptation of the principles of law is accurate and logical. Mr. Moore is well known in Ashland for it is his native city, his birth having here occurred September 29, 1884. He is a son of W. C. and Bessie EK. (Morgan) Moore, and spending his boyhood days in his parents' home, his time was largely occupied with the duties of the schoolroom as he acquired his education in the public and high schools of Ashland, being graduated therefrom with the class of 1902. His more specifically literary education was obtained in the Ohio State University at Columbus where he spent four years, and in the Ohio Northern University he completed his law course and after a year's study won his legal degree. He was graduated from the Ohio State University with the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1906 and received his Bachelor of Law degree in the Ohio Northern University with the class of 1908. He had entered that school in order to coach the foot-ball team and while thus engaged he gave a portion of his time to supplementing his knowledge of the law by further study there. His preliminary law studies were under the preceptorship of C. J. Kenny of Ashland, who directed his reading during the winter of 1906.

Following his admission to the bar on the 21st of June, 1908, Mr. Moore entered into a partnership with Maurice Semple and together they have since practiced under the firm style of Semple & Moore. While the attorneys are young men their ability is pronounced and within a brief period they have gained for themselves a creditable position at. the Ashland bar and met with gratifying success, while their future looks extremely bright and promising.

Mr. Moore gives his political allegiance to the democracy and is interested in its growth and success but does not seek to figure prominently in any public light save through professional connection where a laudable ambition is prompting him to put forth earnest, zealous and conscientious effort for the attainment of success at the bar. A gentleman of genial manner and unfailing courtesy, he has a host of warm friends in his native city.

John Welch

John Welch has a wide reputation as a sheep breeder of Jackson township, and 'his suecess has made it possible for him to become interested in many commercial enterprises, thereby becoming one of the most salient factors in the business life of the community. He was born February 7, 1830, in Orange township, within a short distance of the farm on which he now resides, which at that time was part of Richland county. He descends from an early pioneer family of this part of the state, and its early members have been identified with the development of the country since the year 1600. In that year his paternal ancestors came from Ireland, settling in South Carolina but, on account of their opposition to the system of human slavery, they soon left that state and took up their abode in Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania. Ephraim Welch, the father of the subject of this record, married Jane McAdoo and they came to Orange township from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1828. The year previous Mr. Welch visited this township alone and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, which was then thickly covered with forests. After clearing off part of the land in readiness for cultivation and erecting a log cabin he returned for his family and in the spring of 1828 they made the journey to their new nome, traveling most of the way on foot. He was a man of great courage, having both a stalwart constitution and at the same time strong determination. Upon settling on his undeveloped land, he resolved to succeed and that his energies were attended by success is apparent from the fact that at his death, which occurred April 1, 1873, he owned eight hundred acres of excellent land, all of which was well stocked and highly improved. Mr. Welch, who was born in October, 1800, after a long and prosperous career, passed away full of years, while his wife, whose birth occurred in 1808, entered into rest in June, 1888. Mr. Welch was widely known throughout the state as a breeder of sheep, being the first to introduce the Spanish Delaine variety into this section of the country. His importation he secured from the first flocks brought to this country and he soon became an adept in breeding the animal and was one of the most successful sheep owners in this part of the country. To him and his wife were born six children, three of whom survive, namely: John, Rankin F, and Catherine, widow of Daniel V. Bailey, who now resides in Troy township.

From the time he was old enough to work John Welch was busy upon his father's farm, engaging in various agricultural duties, the summer season finding him in the fields while during the winter months he acquired his education in the log schoolhouse of the neighborhood. This institution was of the most primitive kind and Mr. Welch will not soon forget its appearance and the experiences which he enjoyed within its walls while he sat upon its split log seats. The schoolroom was twenty-four feet square and on many occasions was compelled to accommodate above one hundred pupils while there was but one teacher to give instruction in the various branches then taught. Having acquired the limited training of this institution, he settled down in earnest, engaging in the field cultivation and stock raising interests of his father's farm, upon which he remained until he was twenty-four years of age. At that period of his life he was united in marriage and began his domestic career upon one hundred acres of land owned by his father and which was to be deeded to him at the expiration of five years, providing he proved himself capable of taking care of it. | Anxious to secure the property he applied himself industriously to its cultivation and at the expiration of the allotted period, the land was his. The industry and enterprise, however, which he has thus far manifested, is strongly in evidence of the fact that at any rate he would have had valuable land of his own, inasmuch as, since he began farming on his own account, he has accumulated seven hundred and forty acres of well improved land, which constitutes one of the finest farms in this part of the country. At the same time his pecuniary interests have been widened into other fields and he is concerned in coal lands in southeastern Ohio, is a stockholder in the Cleveland Southwestern & Columbus Railway Company and in addition is influentially interested in the control of a number of other enterprises. He has been an intensely active man throughout his entire career and even now, in his eightieth year, he has the keen judgment of youth, together with the alertness and vigor of one many years his junior and daily busies himself in the management of his extensive interests. During his long season of active life, among other things, which have commanded his particular attention, is sheep raising and he always kept on hand flocks of the Delaine variety, numbering six or seven hundred head. Grain has also engaged his attention and he has raised some of the largest crops of the finest wheat ever produced in this part of the country and on a number of occasions harvested such a yield per acre of that cereal as enabled him to hold the banner for productiveness. Throughout his life in all of the enterprises with which he has been connected he has pursued his way on the principle that whatever is worth doing is worth doing well and to this attitude he largely attributes the -success of all his undertakings.

On December 6, 1853, Mr. Welch wedded Miss Rebecca Robertson, daughter of Samuel and Alice (Elliott) Robertson, residents of Sullivan township, her father, a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and her mother of Jefferson county, Ohio. Both the Robertson and Elliott families were of Scotch descent and very prominent in affairs of their respective localities. To Mr. and Mrs. Welch have been born four children, two of whom survive, namely : Vernon H., who resides on a farm adjoining that of his father; and Alice B., now the wife of Dr. W. H. Reinhart. The other two children who reached - maturity were Bernin E. and LeClare S.

Politically Mr. Welch is a republican, always strong in the advocacy of the principles of his party and loyal to its candidates. He cast his first vote for John C. Fremont, candidate for the presidency in 1856, and has ever since cast his ballot for republican candidates. He has had a wide circle of illustrious friends, among whom were James A. Garfield and William McKinley, with whom he stood firm and afforded them much assistance during their political contentions. On many occasions he has been invited to become a candidate for office, particularly for county commissioner but has repeatedly declined, although in regard to local elections he has always taken a deep interest and for several terms served as a member of the board of education. On December 6, 1903, Mr. and Mrs. Welch celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage. Few families have wielded a greater influence throughout the community than that of Mr. Welch and he is highly respected and esteemed for the moral, social, educational and financial benefit he has been and still is to the community.

B. J. Urban

B. J. Urban, engaged in general farming and stock raising in Milton township, Ashland county, is a self-made man, his success coming to him as the direct result of indefatigable energy and untiring perseverance. He is, moreover, a prominent figure in public affairs and stands for all that is progressive in the political, educational and moral hfe of the community. His birth occurred in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, June 26, 1836, his parents being Jonas and Margaret (Johnson) Urban, both natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where the former was born December 26, 1814, and the latter April 26, 1813. Jonas Urban came to Ohio April 5, 1854, and settled at Massillon, Ohio, where he obtained employment as a day laborer. He was thus engaged until the Civil war broke out, at which time he enlisted as a member of the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. With this regiment he saw much active service and was in many hotly contested engagements, the most severe being that of Franklin, Tennessee, at the time of General Hood's defeat. His two sons, Jacob and Joseph, served with their father in the same regiment and all were honorably discharged and returned home after a term covering three years. After the close of hostilities Jonas Urban did not again resume his agricultural pursuits, but continued to live a quiet and retired life until his death, which occurred February 7, 1899. In 1834 he had married Miss Margaret Johnson, and unto them were born seven children, of which our subject is the eldest. The others are: Jacob M., born October 11, 1838; Joseph, born in 1841 and died in 1884; Mary Ann, born in 1843 and died in 1907; Amos, born in 1846; Susan, born in 1847; and Margaret, born in 1849.

B. J. Urban received his early education in Pennsylvania and completed his studies at Greenburg, Ohio. After two years spent in the latter place and before he had reached the age of twenty-one years, he took the initial step in his independent business career as a school teacher. He continued in this profession until his marriage in 1866, when he purchased the old homestead farm of Mr. Charles, his father-in-law, where he has since resided. | Here he conducts general agricultural pursuits and in addition devotes some time to stock raising. His farm consists of one hundred and sixty acres which are under a fine state of cultivation, and in return for the time and attention expended upon them they yield rich harvests that bring to their owner a gratifying income.

The year 1866 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Urban and Miss Elizabeth M. Charles, whose father, Joseph Charles, was one of the pioneer settlers of Ashland county. Their family consists of two sons and two daughters, namely : Florence Emily, Jennie E., J. Charles and H. Marshall. All attended the district school, while the latter, H. Marshall, attended school at Columbus, Ohio. After graduating he was connected for four years with the Pennsylvania Central Railroad Company at Pittsburg as civil engineer, and at the expiration of that time became connected with the National Tube Company of West Virginia, with which he continued for two years. He then accepted a position with the Tennessee Coal & Iron Company at Birmingham, Alabama, the connection continuing to the present time. The wife and mother passed away in 1906, and in 1908 Mr. Urban was again married, his second union being with Margaret Kurtz. His church relations are those of the United Brethren church, of which he has served as a trustee for thirty-two years. A stanch democat, he was elected on that party ticket for township trustee, which office he occupied for some time, and was also a school director, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. He is well known throughout this section of the county as a man of sterling character and worth, having the confidence of the entire community, for in public office he has always been true to the trust reposed in him; in business he has made an unassailable reputation and in private life has gained the warm personal regard of a host of friends.

Jacob Fulmer

Jacob Fulmer, a pioneer of the county, now in his ninety-fifth year, and one of the best known men in Nova and Troy township, where for over three-quarters of a century he was actively engaged in agricultural pursuits and stock-raising, is a native of Columbia county, Pennsylvania. He was born August 4, 1815, a son of John and Hannah Fulmer, who came by wagon to what is now known as Ashland county in 1832. The town of Ashland was at that time but a small village and when they arrived here they stopped over night and in the morning pursued their way to Orange township and settled in what then was a woodland district with a small log cabin for a dwelling. There they decided to remain and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. Upon gaining possession of the tract Mr. Fulmer at once set to work to clear off the property. At that time they had few neighbors, and they were so widely separated and were so busily engaged in clearing off their own lands that the one could not depend upon the other for much assistance, and consequently each one had to apply himself to his own task and make his way the best he could. Owing to 'their industry and frugality they soon were in comfortable circumstances, and upon the farm spent their entire lives. In their family were five sons and three daughters, the surviving ones being Daniel, who resides in Nova; William, who lives in Hillsdale, Michigan; and Jacob.

Jacob Fulmer was but seventeen years of age when the family came to Ohio. It was in the district schools of his native county that he acquired his education and upon arriving in this county he at once went to work with his father in clearing the land. He remained on the home place until he was married, when he settled on a farm in the northeastern part of the township on the ~ old county line, remaining there until about 1869, then removing to Nova, where he has resided to the present time. He was always progressive and enterprising and ever ready to inculcate new ideas into his work. He has the distinction of having bought the first mowing machine in Orange township. At one time he paid considerable attention to sheep-breeding and for many years was well known throughout the state as a wool grower, but later he withdrew his attention from this enterprise and devoted his time to general farming. The first dwelling constructed upon his farm was built in 1844 out of black walnut, and the structure is still standing and is well preserved. In those days there was much of that kind of timber on the premises which he was obliged to cut down and burn in order to make room for his fields, and consequently vast quantities of lumber which would have been worth thousands of dollars today were destroyed. There were no railroads in that part of the country during the greater part of Mr. Fulmer's career and he, with other farmers, was obliged to haul his grain to the markets of Elyria and Milan, the journey there and back often consuming. more than three days.

On the 24th of January, 1839, Mr. Fulmer was united in marriage to Miss Jatherine Fast, a daughter of George Fast, of Orange township, who was a native of Pennsylvania and one of the early settlers of this county. To this union were born five children, namely: Susannah, Sarah, Lucinda, George and Enos, all of whom are deceased. Their mother departed this life May 7, 1854. On August 3, of the same year, Mr. Fulmer wedded Miss Elizabeth Champeney, of Bennington, Vermont, who at the time of her marriage was living in New York state. She passed away September 24, 1908, leaving her husband and two children, namely: Augusta Elizabeth Black, and Jacob N. who is in business in Nova, while his sister resides at home with her father.

Mr. Fulmer east his first vote in 1836, for Martin Van Buren, and has never missed voting during presidential elections since. After the organization of the republican party, however, he voted that ticket and was loyal to its principles until 1896, when he cast his vote for William J. Bryan and a second time for the same candidate in the year 1900, again changing his politics in 1904, when he cast his vote for Theodore Roosevelt, In 1908 he again favored the democratic party and again voted for William J. Bryan, of whom he is a great admirer. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belonged and of which he is a liberal supporter. Although Mr. Fulmer is in his ninety-fifth year he is still active, being able to do outdoor work and, his memory being clear, he is able to recall with great vividness the events of the past and can recount the happenings of seventy-five years ago with as great accuracy as though they had happened but yesterday. He is genial and companionable, always glad to see his friends and entertain them in his home, and perhaps no man is better known throughout the county than he, and his cordial greeting makes him a friend with all with whom he comes in contact. He has lived a busy as well as an upright life and is now honored, respected and venerated by all who know him.

Elmer J. Worst

Elmer J. Worst, a manufacturer of medical specialties, who is also prominent in educational work, is a native of Troy township, this county. He was born December 22, 1848, a son of George and Margaret (Martin) Worst, both natives of Wayne county, Ohio, where they were reared and united in marriage, their arrival in this state having occurred in 1848. At that time the region now comprising Troy township, in which they located, was in primitive condition, overgrown with forests and containing but here and there small patches of developed land and their first work, upon settling, was to construct a dwelling house of logs which, needless to say, had but little furnishment, not even being supplied with a cooking stove and Mrs. Worst was compelled to practice the culinary art outside of the cabin, using a white oak stump as a stove, upon which to prepare her food. The land, little by little, was cleared off and placed under cultivation and upon this farm they resided for six years, when they sold the property and purchased another tract of land located about a mile and a half north of the first farm and this tract, although it was not thickly overgrown with trees, had a great deal of undergrowth and was overstrewn with fallen logs, but through his energy and industry Mr. Worst soon put the land into tillable shape and remained upon it for four years. At the termination of that time he sold the farm and returned to Wayne county, where he remained for fifteen years and, again returning to this county, located on a farm six miles north of Ashland in Orange township, where he resided until death terminated his activities in 1897. In addition to engaging in farming pursuits he was also a clergyman of the German Baptist church and for a period of forty years conducted a useful ministry throughout the neighboring region.

Elmer J. Worst was reared on his father's farm and acquired his education in the public schools and in the Smithville high school and, upon completing his studies, engaged in teaching for a living, which vocation he followed for three years, in the meantime taking an interest in the work of the home farm, upon which he engaged in the bee and chicken industry. In 1877 he came to this city and established himself in the grocery business with which he was identified for five years. At the termination of this period he disposed of his interests and spent five years traveling throughout the west and south, finally returning to this place and engaging in the proprietary medicine business, in which he has met with splendid success, holding a number of patents among which is an improved vaporizer, the sale of which has added much to his financial worth. He organized the E. J. Worst Manufacturing Company, and under three separate organizations is manufacturing the vaporizers, wool fat prepara- tions and pure herb tablets. He is a man of excellent business judgment and during the years he has been engaged in this line of work he has made rapid strides and his growing popularity promises a great future for his business. His financial relations have been so favorable as to enable him to become concerned in a number of other enterprises, among which is the Ashland Savings Bank, of which he is a stockholder.

Mr. Worst is a republican politically, being well versed in the principles of his party, and, always anxious to see it attain success, he is enthusiastic during campaigns in behalf of its candidates. He takes a profound interest in educational matters and is treasurer of the Ashland University, being a member of the prudential committee of the college and also of the board of trustees, and his influence in educational circles is widely felt throughout the district. He belongs to the Progressive Brethren church and being a man whose character is molded by the high ideals of his faith he commands the respect of the entire community and justly deserves mention as one of Ashland's honored citizens and representative business men.

John Edward Kauffman

John Edward Kauffman, the vice president and superintendent of the plant of the Kauffman Manufacturing Company, in which connection he holds important relations with the business development and growth of Ashland, his native city, was born December 14, 1871, of the marriage of Jacob J. and Anna Eliza (Willis) Kauffman. The father was born in Stark county, Ohio, June 21, 1829, and was a son of Solomon Kauffman, a native of Pennsylvania, who, at an early date, removed from that state to Stark county, Ohio, establishing his home there on a farm. After devoting some years to general agricultural pursuits he turned his attention to the grain business in Canton, Ohio, and was identified therewith in his later years, being accounted one of the representative residents of that locality.

Reared under the parental roof, Jacob J. Kauffman at the age of twentyone years went to Hancock county, Ohio, and obtained employment in a general store in the town of Newstark. That he proved capable and worthy is indicated by the fact that in 1860, he was admitted to a partnership in the business which was then conducted under the firm name of Ream & Kauffman. Constrained by the spirit of patriotism at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war, Mr. Kauffman responded to the country's call for aid, enlisting in the Ninety-ninth Ohio Infantry, with which he served until the close of hostilities. When the war was over he returned to Ashland and was married. He then formed a partnership with his father-in-law, J. D. Willis, and engaged in the stove and tinning business under the firm style of Kauffman & Willis, this relation being maintained until 1875, when Mr. Kauffman founded the present extensive manufacturing business, still conducted under the Kauffman name. The beginning, however, was very small and was then confined to the manufacturing of bed springs. A year later S. W. Beer was admitted to the partnership under the firm style of Kauffman & Beer, but in September, 1893, Mr. Beer died, after which Mr. Kauffman was alone for a time. Three years after his partner's death he purchased his interest from the estate, becoming sole owner, when the style of the firm was changed to the Kauffman Manufacturing Company. In 1898 he gave each of his sons an interest in the business which, after the father's death, was reorganized as a stock company, the stock being owned wholly by the family. The officers are Fred Edwards, president; J. E. Kauffman, vicepresident and superintendent and H. S. Kauffman, secretary and treasurer: The dimensions of the present factory are fifty-five by. one hundred and seventyfive feet, and the building is three floors and basement. The firm manufactures bed springs, cots, cribs, folding tables and folding chairs and are extensive shippers of parlor tables and iron beds. The business has been incorporated for seventy-five thousand dollars and is enjoying an extensive trade, this being one of the large business concerns of Ashland.

John E. Kauffman was educated in the public schools of Ashland and received his business training in the Oberlin Business College. At an early age he began working in his father's factory and in 1894 took a contract in building chairs in the factory, with which special line of work he was identified until a removal was made to the present extensive plant in 1902. He was then chosen superintendent of the entire factory, and after his father's death became the vice president of the company. His practical knowledge of the business enables him to capably superintend the work that is being carried on in the different departments and he is thus proving himself a most able manager.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Kauffman was married April 14, 1897, to Miss Clara A. Shissler, of Perry township, Ashland county, a daughter of Townsend Shissler, a prominent farmer of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Kauffman have two children, Portia Elizabeth and John Jacob. The parents are members of the Disciple church and Mr. Kauffman gives his political en-. dorsement to the republican party, while in fraternal relations he is connected with Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F. Close application, a thorough understanding of mechanical principles and a knowledge of the materials which are used in the workshop, combined with good capacity for management, have been the factors which have made Mr. Kauffman's business career a sucessful one.

Walter W. Cooper

Walter W. Cooper, who occupies a prominent and influential position in the commercial circles of Ashland as a leading book dealer and stationer, is a native of Ashtabula, Ohio, born November 16, 1879, his parents being George and Josephine H. (Hubbard) Cooper, also natives of that state, where they were reared, educated and married, there spending their entire lives. The elder Mr. Cooper was among the prosperous butchers of his native city, in the polities of which he took an active interest, having served several years as a member of the city council and also for several terms as mayor of the municipality. After a life, during which he aided much in promoting the welfare of the city in which he was born, he passed away in 1881, leaving many friends to mourn his deparure. His wife survived him until the year 1899. Both were well known and highly respected and were faithful adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the affairs of which they were leading factors.

After receiving his preliminary education in the common schools, Walter W. Cooper completed a course of study in the Ashland high school, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1897. In the spring of that year he secured a position in a shoe store in Ashtabula, remaining in the employ of the firm for five years, during which time he acquired a thorough knowledge of the various departments of the shoe business, and in 1902, upon being offered a position as manager of a shoe house in Canton, Ohio, went to that place where he remained for three years, and upon resigning his position in 1905, located in Ashland. Here he at once established himself in the book, stationery and art business, carrying many side lines such as art china and wall paper, and being of a genial disposition and ever courteous, he has since succeeded in building up a large and lucrative trade. From the outset he was successful in his enterprise, his years of excellent training enabling him to manage the business to his advantage and it has since grown to such proportions as to be ranked among the leading enterprises of the city.

In December, 1900, Mr. Cooper was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ricketson, a native of New Bedford, Massachusetts. The couple have one son, Wallace R. Politically Mr. Cooper gives his support to the republican party, being a warm believer in the fundamental character of its principles and, convineed that the policy of the republican party is adequate to insure the permanent prosperity of the nation and place its finance upon a firm foundation, he is loyal to its principals and during campaigns is always on hand with his vote and influence in behalf of its candidates. He belongs to the Masonic order, holding membership in Ashtabula Lodge, and is also a member of the Ashland Commercial Club. Amid the pressure of his business affairs. Mr. Cooper never loses sight of his religious obligations, deeming their performance a man's highest duty, and in the Methodist Episcopal church, to which he belongs, heis an active worker. Since coming to this city he has worked untiringly to enlarge the border of his business, all the while exhibiting those qualifications which cannot help but insure success in the commercial world. The enterprise which he has established is one of the most considerable in the city and its proprietor stands high in the city's business circles.

Jacob Brubaker

Jacob Brubaker is the oldest man in Ashland in point of continuous connection with commercial interests of the city. He is, moreover, one of the native sons of the county and the attractiveness of this section of the state as a place of residence is indicated by the fact that many of the native sons have remained here, feeling that the opportunities and advantages here offered are equal to those afforded in other sections of the United States. The birthplace of Mr. Brubaker was about four miles south of the county seat and his natal day was October 19, 1843. His parents were John and Katharine (Dissinger) Brubaker, both of whom were natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where they were reared and married, coming thence to Ashland county in the early '20s. David Brubaker, the grandfather, was also a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and in the year 1832 arrived in Ohio, after which he lived retired. He was twice married and John Brubaker, a son of the first marriage, was the father of our subject. He was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1792, and at the time of the war of 1812, being then twenty years of age, he joined the American army and fought for the independence of this country. He married Miss Katharine Dissinger and unto them were born eight children ere their migration to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1826, of whom three are now living. John Brubaker was at that time thirty-four years of age. He entered a farm four and a half miles south of the village of Ashland comprising eighty acres of heavily timbered land. The family slept in the covered wagon in which they had traveled westward until a log house could be built, several weeks passing before this primitive home was completed. With characteristic energy John Brubaker began the development of the new farm, working earnestly and persistently to bring his fields under cultivation. He continued to follow farming until 1845, when he sustained an injury that unfitted him for hard manual labor, but he had previously learned the trade of shoe making and took up that line of work, continuing to follow the business until he retired from active life. Like most of the pioneers of the times, his educational advantages were limited, but he was rich in industry and perseverance and those qualities constituted the foundation upon which he builded his prosperity, making for himself and family a home of comfort. His death occurred in 1869. Unto him and his wife were born the following children, namely: Joseph, who died at the age of fifty-eight years; Henry, who died at the age of fifty-nine years; John, who died while serving in the Civil war and was buried in the soldiers' cemetery at Chattanooga; Mrs. Catherine Hickman; David F., a representative business man of Ashland; and Jacob of this review.

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

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

William Keck

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

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

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

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

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

Charles L. Sellers

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

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

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

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

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

Thornton P. Crowell supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the schools of Ashland, by attendance at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he began studying with that end in view but at the time of the Civil war he put aside all personal considerations and enlisted for service in the Union army as a member of Company A, One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He continued as a soldier until the close of the war, seeing active service with the Army of the Cumberland and the eastern army, but returned home unscathed, Having neither received a wound nor been taken prisoner during his entire term of enlistment. When the country no longer needed his aid he continued his preparation for his chosen calling, reading under the direction of Drs. Sampsel and Glass of Ashland, while later he attended the Western Reserve Medical College of Cleveland, which institution conferred upon him the degree of M. D. in 1867. In that year he located for practice at Olmstead Falls, Cuyahoga county, but in the following year came to Nankin, in Orange township, Ashland county, where he has since prosecuted his profession. That he has been successful and progressive in the practice of both medicine and surgery is indicated by the large and ever increasing patronage that has been accorded him and also by the excellent results which have attended his efforts. I1e owns a well improved and valuable farm in the vicinity of Nankin and in its supervision finds both recreation and. pleasure.

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

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

George Young

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

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

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

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

Lorin C. Miller

Lorin GC. Miller, one of the worthy native sons and representative citizens of Ashland, is a:son of John and Lydia (Cunningham) Miller, natives of Washington county, Pennsylvania, who removed from Wayne county, Ohio, to Ashland in the '40s. The father's death occurred in this city in 1898, when he

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

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

John Peters

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

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

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

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

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

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

Duff Pancoast

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

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

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

Horace A. Roberts

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

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

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

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

Harry B. Vanosdall

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

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

John Stoner

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

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

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

Charles Enck

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

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

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

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

John Fluke

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

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

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

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

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