Ashland City (part 43 of 57)

S. G. Wiest, a representative of commercial interests in Ashland, where he is now conducting a well appointed and profitable drug store, was born in Adams county, Pennsylvania, June 28, 1850, his parents being J acob and Margaret (Gates) Wiest, also natives of the same county. The father's death there occurred in 1902, while the mother is still living at the advanced age of eighty-

S. G. Wiest spent his youthful days in his parent 's home and is indebted to the publie school system of the state for the early educational opportunities afforded him. He also studied for a time in Pennsylvania College at Gettsyburg and when sixteen years of age he began teaching. Believing that he might have better business opportunities elsewhere than in his native locality, he turned his face westward in 1873 and on the 24th of June, arrived in Ashland. During the following fall and winter he taught the Ackley school in Vermillion township, this county, and:in April, 1874, he entered the drug store of J. P. Harley to act as clerk and learn the business. On the Ist of February, 1878, he became proprietor of a store through the purchase of the business of Dr. G. B. Cole, then located the second door south of the building now occupied py the postoffice. Two months later, on the Ist of April, 1878, he rented a rvom on Main street below the Miller house, formerly occupied by Dr. W. K. Foltz and now occupied by the drug store of W. L. Rhoads & Company. In this room he placed new fixtures and modern equipment, moving his stock thereto, and conducted the business until 1880, when he sold out to E. W. Reaser. He then engaged in the manufacture of cigars in partnership with William Flinn, with whom he was associated for three years. In 1883, he purchased from C. A. Godman the drug store on Main street which he has since conducted, having carried on the business for more than a quarter of a century. He has a large and well selected line of goods and the tasteful arrangement of the store, together with his reasonable prices and unfailing courtesy in business dealings, has brought him enviable success. .

In 1876, Mr. Wiest was married to Miss Belle Mansfield, of Ashland, and unto them have been born three children: John, a resident of this city; Katherine, the wife of Zenith Wile, of Ashland, Ohio; and Fred C., who is pursuing architectural and special courses at the University of Pennsylvania, being now in his senior year. In politics Mr. Wiest is a stalwart democrat but without aspiration for office. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., Ashland Chapter, R. A. M., Mansfield Council, R. & S. M., Mansfield Commandery, No. 21, K. T., Cleveland Consistory, A. & A. S. R., and Al Koran Temple, A. A. O.N.M.S., of Cleveland. He was formerly identified with the Odd Fellow and with the Knights of Pythias but does not keep up his connection with either organization at the present time. He possesses a genial disposition and his friends in Ashland are legion.

Ebenezer E. Wharton

There is a marked contrast between the fine residence which Ebenezer E. Wharton now occupies and the little log cabin in which he was born. One is an indication of his personal prosperity, the other of the condition which existed in the county at the time of his birth, a period in which the work of improvement and civilization had been carried on only to a slight extent. As the years passed he became an active factor in agricultural circles and is now extensively engaged in raising cattle and sheep. He was born in this county,

September 6, 1849, a son of James and Nancy (Williams) Wharton. The former was a son of John and Mary Wharton, both of whom were natives of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, where their four children were also born. These were James, Malinda, Mary and John Wharton. aving lost his first wife John Wharton married again and the children of that union were Thomas, Robert, Hulbert, Franklin, Minerva and Clara. It was in the year 1823 that John Wharton arrived with his family in Ohio, settling in what was then Richland and now Ashland county. All around him were the green woods, the trees standing in their primeval strength. In the midst of the forest he built a little eabin and commenced to clear away the trees that he might prepare the fields for cultivation. He became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land, converting it into a new farm, and with the early development of the county he was closely and helpfully associated.

James Wharton, whose birth occurred in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, November 30, 1817, was but five years of age when he accompanied his parents to Ohio. He remained with his father until he- reached the age of ten years, when he started out to earn his own hving. Ue made the attempt by working in a sugar camp, making maple sugar on shares, but he lost all that he earned in that way. He next bought a calf but that went mad and afterward bought a colt and it died. These were disheartening ventures for a boy who must depend upon his own resources for a living, but being resolute and determined, he persevered in the face of obstacles and at last fate smiled upon his attempts. He could always see the bright side of everything and through speculation he added largely to his resources, becoming in the course of years one of the wealthy and distinguished citizens of Ashland county. At the age of twenty-five years he purchased his first farm and kept increasing his holdings as his financial resources were augmented until he was at one time the owner of fourteen hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. He also dealt extensively in sheep and cattle, keeping on hand large flocks of sheep, owning as many as thirteen hundred head at one time, in which season his sale of wool amounted to more than five thousand dollars. Ile also engaged in buying and selling wool and handled sheep and céittle on a large scale. Tis success came as the direct result of his industry, careful management and judicious investment. He was a very influential man in his day and as financial resources inereased he manifested a spirit of charity that was most generous and helpful, being always one of the first to respond to the call of the needy. His sympathy found expression in ready and liberal gifts of money and no one in want ever appealed to him in vain. In matters relative to the public welfare he also took a deep interest and served his community in several positions of importance, acting as one of the county commissioners for six years, while for many terms he was trustee. His judgment and advice were frequently sought by his neighbors, friends and associates, and his opinions were considered of great value. In 1838 he married Miss Nancy Williams, who was born in 1821, and they became the parents of nine children: Mrs. Adeline Hunter, who died in March, 1891; Ebenezer E.; Mrs. Malinda Franks; John A.; Judson R.; Willard C.; Ulysses

Ebenezer E. Wharton pursued his education in the district schools and remained upon the home farm until he had attained his majority. He was married at the age of twenty-five years and established his home in a little log cabin, but his wife has been of much assistance to him and his industry and perseverance have enabled him to work his way steadily upward. Carefully controlling his business affairs, he has at length become financially independent and something of his prosperity is indicated in the fact that in 1903 he erected a fine residence which is one of the attractive country homes of this part of the county. All of the other buildings upon his place are kept in good repair. - Like his father, he is extensively engaged in raising sheep and has made much money in this way, being now one of the best known shippers in this portion of the state. He owns four hundred acres of valuable land and his success is continually - increasing. He gives much credit to his wife for her sound judgment and the ability with which she has managed the household affairs while he has carried on the work of the fields or managed his live stock interests. He is regarded as an authority upon sheep, being familiar with the best breeds and handling only high grade stock.

In 1874 Mr. Wharton was married to Miss Lillie Loretta McCluskey, a daughter of John A. and Elizabeth McCluskey, and they became the parents of four children: James A., who was born February 13, 1876, and died in 1908; Charles Edward, born March 4, 1878; Judson, born July 27, 1880; and John William, September 7, 1882. Mr. Wharton and his family attend the United Brethren church in which he holds membership, and he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias. His political endorsement is given to the republican party and he has been a delegate to several state conventions. He is numbered among the class of citizens on whom the community depends to further its best interests, for while he does not seek or desire office he is loyal to the public good and cooperates in many measures for its advancement. His record is in harmony with that of his father and grandfather who from an early period in the development of the county took a helpful part in shaping its policy and molding its destiny.

Herbert E. Enck

Herbert E. Enck, prominent in the financial affairs of this city as general manager of the M. & EK. Manufacturing Company, producers of ladies' belts and children's wearing apparel, was born in Hayesville, May 28, 1877, a son of Joseph and Julia (Wenger) Enck, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. Reared in the city of Reading, where they were united in marriage, they subsequently came to this county and located in Hayesville, where the father followed the carpenter's trade for a number of years. In 1884 he removed to this city where for some time he was employed as a machinist in the Myers Shops and, 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. Enck IS a democrat and has always been loyal to the candidates of his party. He is a veteran of the Civil war, having served throughout 'the entire conflict, in which he received a gun-shot wound, from which he has since endured much suffering.

The public schools of this city afforded Herbert E. Enck his edueation and at the age of eighteen years, being ambitious to become associated with the affairs of the commercial world and become independent in life, he secured a position in the office of F. E. Myers & Brothers, in whose employ he remained until 1903. At that early period of his career, becoming dissatisfied with working for others in a salaried position and determining not to pursue this course all his days, he resigned his position, in which he had served with great efficiency and benefit to the company, and organized the Improved Gaiter Company, launching out in the manufacturing business in November, 1903. At the organization of the firm he became general manager and transacted its affairs in an able manner until 1907, when solicitous to widen out in the commercial world he disposed of his interests and organized what is known as the M. & E. Manufacturing Company, of which he was also made general manager. In this connection he has since been performing his duties to the advantage of the interests of the business. The enterprise is constantly growing, the firm at present employing from thirty to forty operatives and supplying an immense local and out-of-town trade.

On February 22, 1907, Mr. Enck was united in marriage to Millie Ridgeley, a daughter of Frank Ridgeley, deceased, formerly a commercial salesman of this city. Mr. Enek is interested in religious work and with his wife attends divine services at the Christian church, of which he is a member and a leading factor. He is recognized as a conservative business man and the industry and aggressiveness, which he has thus far evidenced and which have been instrumental in placing him amid his present prosperous circumstances, bid fair to put him in a still higher position in the commercial and financial circles of the city.

Christian Kunkel

Christian Kunkel, who is now living retired in Ashland, was for many years numbered among the prominent and successful dry-goods merchants of the city. He was born in Knox county, Ohio, January 31, 1844, his parents being Samuel and Elizabeth (Stalter) Kunkel, who were natives of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and in early manhood and womanhood went with their respective parents to Knox county, Ohio, where they were married. They made their home in that county until 1854, when they came to Ashland county, locating in Mifflin township, where they spent their remaining days, the father passing away in 1863, while the mother survived until 1869, when she, too, was called to her final rest. . Christian Kunkel acquired his education in the common schools and remained at home until eighteen years of age, when he came to Ashland and for two years worked in a grocery store. He next clerked for two years in a drygoods store and at the end of that time, having earefully husbanded his resources, he purchased an interest in the dry-goods business of Brubaker Brothers, which however, he eventually sold. A year later, in association with Brubaker Brothers, he purchased the business of M. B. Parmely, the enterprise being then conducted under the firm style of Brubaker & Kunkel. Subsequently I. H. Good was admitted to a partnership and the name of the firm was changed to Brubaker, Kunkel & Good, while still later L. J. Miller bought the interest of Mr. Brubaker and the concern became known as Kunkel, Good & Miller. This relation continued for about five or six years, when the interest of Mr. Miller was purchased and the business was then conducted under the style of Kunkel & Good until 1902, when Mr. Kunkel retired, selling out to Mr. Sellers. Since that time Mr. Kunkel has lived practically retired, his carefully conducted and well managed business interests in former years having brought to him a competence that now enables him to enjoy many of the luxuries and all of the comforts of life. He owns a valuable farm a mile east of Ashland and is widely recognized as one of the substantial, progressive and public-spirited residents of the city.

In 1866 Mr. Kunkel was joined in wedlock to Miss Margaret Jackson, of Ashland. By this union there have been born five children, four of whom still survive: Frank W., who is connected with the firm of Sellers & Good, drygoods merchants of this city; Blanche, the wife of T. M. Harkness, an insurance man of Ashland; George, who follows agricultural pursuits in Montgomery township; and Carrie, the wife of William Wiley, of Ashland, Ohio. The two sons, Frank W. and George, are extensive breeders of thoroughbred fox and coon hounds and ship their dogs to all parts of the country, their kennels being maintained on the home farm near Ashland. They began breeding hounds a few years ago on a small scale and have met with remarkable success in the venture, their business being now one of magnitude.

Mr. Kunkel gives his political allegiance to the democracy and for seven years has served continuously as a member of the city council, proving a faithful and efficient publie official. He is interested in the city's welfare and has taken an active and helpful part in every movement or measure instituted for its advancement along moral, intellectual and material lines. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, with which his wife is also identified. He has made his home in this county from early boyhood and the principles that have actuated his life have ever been such as to win for him the highest esteem and good will of his fellow townsmen.

Dr. Arthur LeRoy Garrison is one of the younger members of the medical fraternity, and although he has been located in Sullivan only for the past six years, he has a well established practice, which is constantly increasing each year. He is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having haeea in Rochester township, Lorain county, his parents being George M. and Almeda (Jones) Garrison. The father was formerly engaged in merchandising in Rochester and both he and his wife still survive.

Dr. Garrison pursued his early education in the schools of Rochester, this being supplemented by a course in Berea College, at Berea, this state. Being favorably impressed with the profession of medicine as a life work, to this end he matriculated in the College of Physicians & Surgeons at Cleveland, completing his course, however, in Western Reserve University of that city with the class of 1902, his expenses being met by the money which he had saved from teaching for three years in the schools of Lorain, after he had completed his literary course. Following his graduation in 1902, he spent one year in hospital work in Cleveland, whereby he gained practical knowledge of the science of medicine and surgery and thus he was well qualified to engage in practice on his own account, when in 1903 he opened an office in Ravenna. However, Sullivan seemed to offer better opportunities for a general practitioner and after six months spent in Ravenna, he came to the latter city, opening an office here in January, 1903. From the beginning he met with success and it was but a short time ere he had a well established practice for he has demonstrated his skill and ability in the handling of many complex medical problems and his services are in almost constant demand.

Dr. Garrison chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Frances M. Campbell, the wedding ceremony being performed on the 8th of June, 1901. Mrs. Garrison is a daughter of Frank and Hannah (Lewis) Campbell, the former a prominent agriculturist of Lorain county, Ohio, and a veteran of the Civil war. The marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Garrison has been blessed with two daughters, Christine J. and Hortense L., but the latter is now deceased.

Politically the Doctor is a republican, while as a public-spirited citizen he is a strong advocate of good roads, good schools and all public movements which are calculated to better conditions and the best interests of his home locality. As a diversion from his professional duties he gives his leisure hours to the raising of chickens, being a fancier of high grade poultry and he is also a great lover of all kinds of thoroughbred animals. The Doctor is highly esteemed in Sullivan and vicinity, not only as a professional man but also as a citizen and friend of humanity who lives for the good he can do to his fellowman.

John A. Creveling

John A. Creveling, who since September, 1905, has served as postmaster at Nankin, was born in Orange township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 27th of April, 1867, his parents being Francis and Rebecca (Duck) Creveling. The father, whose birth occurred in November, 1840, followed agricultural pursuits in Orange township throughout his active business career. He was an upright, industrious citizen, interested in all movements pertaining to the general welfare, and gave his political support to the republican party. For many years he was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which he passed away on the ist of February, 1908. His wife still survives and is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which she

John A. Creveling, the eldest in a family of six children, four of whom are still living, a brother and sister being deceased, was reared upon the old homestead place and divided his time in his youthful years between attendanceat the schools of Nankin and the assistance which he gave his father in the work of the home farm. When twenty-four years of age he was married and for eleven years afterward was actively engaged in general agricultural pursuits. Failing health, however, convinced him of the necessity of securing employment requiring less physical exertion and in the spring of 1902 he came to Nankin with his family, accepting a clerkship with I. L. Fortney, who conducted a general mercantile store. He remained in that position until September, 1905, when he was appointed postmaster at Nankin, in which capacity he has served in a satisfactory and efficient manner to the present time. He has also studied photography and has become quite an expert in the use of the camera, making a specialty of postcard work, which proves a source of diversion as well as of revenue.

On the 4th of March, 1891, Mr. Creveling was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Murray, a daughter of Wilson and Isabelle (Stowe) . Murray, of Richland county, the father being a prominent agriculturist. Unto our subject and his wife have been born four children, namely: Connor M., Virgil W., Esther M. and Rhea A.

In his political views Mr. Creveling is a stanch republican and has been prominent and active in the local councils of the party. He and the members of his family belong to the Presbyterian chureh and take a helpful part in both church and Sunday school work. They are likewise popular and prominent in social circles, their many excellent traits of character having won for them the warm esteem and regard of all with whom they have come in contact. Mr. Creveling has always lived in this county, so that his acquaintance is a wide one, and that he is best liked where best known is an indication that his salient characteristics are those which command respect and good will.

Hon. George W. Brubaker

Hon. George W. Brubaker is preeminently a man of affairs and one who has wielded a wide influence. He is accounted one of the leading farmers of Lake township and while successfully controlling his agricultural interests he has at the same time been a factor in the public life of the community and has been honored by his fellow townsmen with various local offices while twice he has been called to represent his district in the state legislature. A native of Pennsylvania he was born in Bedford county, J anuary 12, 1828, his parents being George and Elizabeth (Burkhart) Brubaker. The father was born November 17, 1798, in Pennsylvania, and the mother's birth oceurred- near Altoona, that state, on the 5th of October, 1801. They were married November 28, 1819, and spent several years of their early married life in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, after which they went to Fayette county and in 1834 arrived in Ohio. The journey westward was made in a covered wagon drawn by three horses and after a long and weary trip through the forests they reached Mohican township and established their home near Mohicanville in that part of Wayne county which is now a part of Ashland county. Mr. Brubaker at once built a log cabin, eighteen by twenty feet in the midst of the dense forest. It had a puncheon floor and its furnishings were of a most primitive character. The father at once began to clear his land and place it under the plow while the family experienced many of the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life. Both he and his wife spent their last days in Lake township where his death occurred in January, 1862, while his wife passed away March 18, 1887. He had devoted his entire life to general farming, thus providing a comfortable living for his family while his labors were also an element in the reclamation of a wild western district which through the work of Mr: Brubaker and others was converted into a prosperous and populous section. In politics he was a Jacksonian democrat, stanchly advocating the principles promulgated by ''Old Hickory,'' for whom he voted. He also cast a presidential ballot for James Monroe and as the years passed he continued to support the democratic nominees until he was called from this life. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belonged. Their family numbered ten children: John, Ephraim and Joseph, all now deceased ; Margaret, who became the wife of the Rev. A. K. Owen, both of whom have now passed away; George W.; Elias P., living in Shandon, California; Mary Elizabeth, who married Dewitt Kean, both now deceased ; Harrison A., who has departed this life; Thomas M., who died in early life; and Nancy Magdalene, the deceased wife of A. C. Kean, a brother of Dewitt Kean.

The Hon. George W. Brubaker was an infant at the time of the removal of the family to Fayette county, Pennsylvania, and was but six years of age when he arrived in Ohio so that practically his entire life has been passed in Ashland county. He was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of the frontier and remained upon the old homestead until twenty-one years of age, aiding in the work of clearing and cultivating the land. From early boyhood he was very active and at a time when most boys are concerned with the duties of the schoolroom and the pleasures of the playground he was engaged in driving a team in the fields taking part in the work of plowing, planting and harvesting. He became an expert cradler. When he began work of that character the cradle which he used was a very inferior construction but he kept making demands for a better cradle until he had one that suited him and with it he cradled eight acres of wheat in a day while later he cut ten acres in a day. Afterward he eut oats at the rate of eleven acres in a day on a field of seven acres. His cradle had an edge of fifty-four inches. His record surpassed any that has ever been made in this part of the state. He was blessed with great strength, vigor and endurance and could split one thousand rails in a day. He learned how best to conserve and use his energy and in his sixty-eighth year he cut one hundred shoeks of corn with one hundred hills to the shock. He remained upon the old homestead until he attained his majority, at which time his father purchased a farm near the present home of our subject in Lake township and a removal was made to that place.

Mr. Brubaker's educational privileges in his boyhood were extremely limited but when nineteen years of age he became a student in Hayesville

Academy for three years and afterward took up the profession of teaching as a part of his regular work, continuing in active connection with the schools from 1848 until 1884, teaching each winter in the district schools. That he enjoyed a most excellent reputation in this direction goes without saying for his long connection with the schools at once manifests the ability which he displayed in his work. For one year he was superintendent of the Loudonville schools but most of the time taught in the country. In the summer months during his early manhood he worked on farms in the neighborhood and eventually took up farming on his own account. He has done considerable clearing, having cleared about sixty acres in Lake township in addition to the work which he did in that direction in Mohican township. He was married in 1852 and purchased a small farm of fifty-seven acres in Green township in 1854. In the spring of 1855 he removed to his present home on section 6, Lake township, where he has since resided. His first purchase made him owner of seventy acres to which he has added from time to time until he now has three hundred acres in his home farm and an additional tract of one hundred and eight acres in Green township. The present substantial buildings on his place were erected by him and much of the land was cleared by Mr. Brubaker who has always been an energetic, industrious man, accomplishing what he has undertaken by reason of his persistency of purpose and capable management. He now makes a specialty of raising horses and at one time he also engaged quite extensively in raising sheep and hogs, his live-stock interests being an important feature of his place although he also gave considerable attention to the cultivation of grain. He practiced the rotation of crops, gave his soil needed rest and as the years passed annually gathered large harvests.

On the 21st of October, 1852, Mr. Brubaker was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Smith, who was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, July 14, 1829, and came to Ohio with her parents in the fall of 1834. She is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Barkdale) Smith, who were natives of Maryland, but spent their last days in Green township, Ashland county. On the journey westward they had a single horse hitched to a wagon in which they put their three little children and the household. goods, while the father and mother walked most of the way. At length they settled in Jeromeville, which was then a part of Wayne county and subsequently took up their abode in Green township, where Mrs. Brubaker remained until her marriage. She was one of a family of six sons and six daughters and by her marriage she became the mother of ten children: Emma Elizabeth, the wife of Abel Goudy, who resides near Jeromesville; Simpson A., who died at the age of three years; .Saphronia, the wife of H. A. Cooper, of Ashland; Mary L., the wife of S. BE. McKinley, of Hayesville: Rosella, the wife of R. F. Helbert, now deceased ; Diantha, the wife of Reuben M. Butler, of Wayne county, Ohio; Edson O., of Lake township, who is living on the farm where his grandparents died; Anna Belle, the wife of Willis McGuire, of Vermillion township; George W., living in Green township ; and a son who died in infancy.

Mr. Brubaker has been a lifelong democrat, unfaltering in his allegiance to the party. He cast his first presidential vote for James Buchanan and he can remember the presidential campaigns of William Henry Harrison, Polk, Taylor and Pierce. He has filled several local offices, serving as clerk and trustee while for nine years he was justice of the peace, his decisions during that time being strictly fair and impartial. In the fall of 1893 he was elected to the lower house of representatives and served so faithfully in the assembly that he was reelected for a second term in 1895. He thus aided in shaping the legislation of the state, giving to each question which came up for settlement his earnest consideration. When fifteen years of age he united with the Methodist Episcopal church and his Christian faith has been the guiding spirit of his entire life. He has served as class leader and recording steward in the Mohican church, has taken a very active part in this work and contributed generously to its support. Mr. Brubaker is a remarkably well preserved man for though he has now passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey he possesses the strength and vigor of many a man in his prime and in spirit and interest seems yet in middle life. He has never felt, as so many do, that with advancing years he should withdraw from the activities and interests of the present and concentrate his thoughts upon memories of the past but is alive to all of the vital questions of the day, keeping informed on all of the issues which affect local and national progress. His memory, however, forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present and few men of this part of the county are more thoroughly informed concerning its history or the events which have shaped its annals. He has himself borne a most active part in the transformation of the county as it has emerged from the conditions of pioneer life and taken on all of the evidences of a modern and progressive civilization. No man of the community is more honored and respected than George W. Brubaker and no man more fully deserves the confidence and good will thus extended.

Although one of the younger members of the medical profession in Ashland, his age does not seem a bar to his progress, for since opening his office here Dr. Riebel has become well known as a physician and surgeon, with a large and growing practice. He is one of Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Columbus, March 9, 1881. His parents were Augustus and Margaret (Seeger) Riebel, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father came to the United States with his parents when about fourteen or sixteen years of age, the family home being established upon a farm in Franklin county. Margaret Seeger came to the United States with two sisters and two brothers when she was fourteen years of age, her parents having died in Germany. The Seegers also made their way to Columbus and there the marriage of Augustus Riebel and Margaret Seeger was celebrated. Turning his attention to farming, he followed that pursuit in Franklin county and was closely associated with agricultural interests up to the time of his death, which occurred June 6, 1892. While he never sought to figure prominently in public life, he was a man of genuine personal worth, straightforward and reliable in all dealings and enjoyed to the

Dr. Riebel spent his youthful days in his parents' home and the district schools afforded him his early educational privileges, while later he attended high school at Jerome, Ohio, and was graduated therefrom with the class of 1901. He then attended two terms at the Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, and in 1902 he began the reading of medicine under the preceptorship of his brother, Dr. J. A. Riebel, of Columbus. In order to thoroughly equip himself for his chosen calling, in the fall of 1902 he entered the Ohio Medical University of Columbus and was graduated therefrom as a member of the class of 1906. He then took the examination for an interneship in the Protestant Hospital at Columbus and was successful in winning the appointment, serving as interne for one year, during which time he gained much valuable knowledge from the broad and varied experience of hospital practice. He also took a post-graduate course in general work at the New Pork Post-Graduate Hospital College.

Thus well qualified for the general practice of medicine, Dr. Riebel came to Ashland in May, 1907. In the meantime, however, during the summer of 1905, he attended the Ohio Northern University, where he completed his scientific course. After coming to Ashland he opened his office in this city and had been here but a short time when he was accorded an enviable patronage. His ability is marked and his devotion to the interests of his patients unquestioned. He is very careful in the diagnosis of his cases and is making continued advancement in his chosen field of labor. He belongs to the Ashland County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association and thus keeps in touch with the onward march of the profession.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Dr. Riebel was married September 25, 1907, to Miss Helen Scott, of Granville, Ohio, and they are well known in the social circles of the city. They hold membership in the Presbyterian church and Dr. Riebel gives his political allegiance to the republican party where state and national issues are involved but at local elections casts an independent ballot. He has never sought nor desired office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his profession, in which he is meeting with signal success.

Thomas R. Shinn

From an early period in the development of business activity in Ashland, Thomas R. Shinn has been connected with its mercantile interests, having long figured as one of its foremost business men. He is at the head of the firm of Shinn, Stockwell & Company, conducting an extensive business as dealers. in dry goods. In matters of trade his judgment is sound and reliable, his sagacity keen and along well defined lines of labor he has won merited success.

Mr. Shinn was born in Mount Washington, Hamilton county, Ohio, October 31, 1845, and is a son of Job R. and Maria (Miller) Shinn, the former. a native of New Jersey and the latter of the state of New York. They came to Ohio prior to their marriage, which was celebrated in Salem, after which they located on Walnut Hills in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the father engaged in farming, with which pursuit he was identified during his active life. He died in Mount Washington in 1872 when seventy-two years of age. After his death the mother removed to Marion, Ohio, where she passed away in 1887 at the age of seventynine years.

Thomas R. Shinn was educated at the Mount Washington Academy, from which he was graduated with the class of 1863. Almost immediately afterward he joined the army, enlisting on the 13th of May of that year as a member of Company H, Onc Hundred and Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He thus served until honorably discharged December 15, 1864, with the rank of first sergeant of his company. While at the front he was with the eastern army and took part in the battles of the Wilderness, Oak Harbor, White House Landing and Petersburg, together with a number of lesser engagements. He proved a loyel defender of the old flag and the cause it represented and after receiving his discharge he returned to Delaware and resumed his interrupted education by entering the Ohio Wesleyan University. There he was graduated with the class of 1866 on the completion of a scientific course.

For some time after completing his studies Mr. Shinn remained in Delaware as a salesman in the mercantile establishment of S. B. and J. J. Sherr, dry-goods merchants. For four years he remained with that firm and there laid the foundation for his future successful career in the thorough business training which he there received.

While a resident of Delaware, Mr. Shinn was married in 1869 to Miss Mary Bieber and in 1871 he returned to Marion county, Ohio, establishing himself in the dry-goods business in the town of Agosta. While living there his wife died and on the 24th of February, 1879, he was again united in marriage, his second union being with Miss Emma Stockwell. He continued in Agosta until 1886, when he disposed of his interests there, came to Ashland and purchased the Central Shoe Store. Subsequently he purchased the dry-goods stock of J. J. Shoemaker, after which he consolidated the two stores and in 1888 removed the business to its present location at the corner of Main and Church streets, where he conducted the enterprise under his own name until 1906. In that year he admitted his son-in-law, John M. Stockwell, and his son, T. E. Shinn, to a partnership under the firm style of Shinn, Stockwell & Company. For years past he has been one of the foremost business men of Ashland, conducting his store along progressive, modern lines and through his straightforward dealing and enterprising spirit securing a liberal share of the public patronage. Aside from his interests in that connection Mr. Shinn is also the president of the Ashland Steel Range Company, which he aided in organizing and at that time was chosen its chief executive officer. Aside from his individual interests he has contributed to the welfare of the city through his membership with the Ashland Board of Trade. He has been a member of its board of directors since. its organization and has been foremost in securing new industries for the city. The work of this organization, combined with that of other progressive business men, has been so effective that within the past eight years the population of Ashland has doubled.

Unto Mr. Shinn and his first wife there were born two children: Ada, now deceased; and Myrtle, the wife of John M. Stockwell, who is now her father's partner in business and by whom she has one son, Harold. Of the second marriage there were two daughters and three sons. Eva is the wife of H. B. Gates, superintendent for the Pittsburg Mining Company at Joplin, Missouri, and they have two children, Dorothy and William. Rea is at home. T. Ellsworth, who is associated with his father in business, married Louise Carter, of Ashland, and they have one child, Jane Louise. Carl M., residing in Ashland, wedded Miss Marcia McClelland, a daughter of Dr. W. M. McClelland, of Ashland. Guy Blaine, the youngest of the family, is deceased.

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

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

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

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

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

Joseph A. Shearer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Allen B. Richards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When hostilities had ceased and the country no longer needed his aid Mr. Marks took up the pursuits of civil hfe. He worked from July, 1865, until February, 1866, on the construction of a reservoir for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at Lucas, Ohio, and at the latter date came to Ashland, where he apprenticed himself to the tinner's trade. On the expiration of his term of indenture he returned to Lucas. where he condueted a tin shop on his own account for several years or until March, 1871, when he removed to Boydton Virginia. There he conducted business for five years and in 1876 he wont in Washington. D. C., where he worked as a journeyman for two years. In 1878 he arrived in Ashland and for a vear thereafter worked at his trade as a journeyman in this eity. In the meantime he had carefully saved his earnings and a the expiration of that period he engaged in business on his own account. forming a partnership with A. J. Burns, which continued for three vears. . This ene tion was then terminated by mutual consent and Mr. Marks bought an interest in the firm of Pille & Knoth, the firm style being then changed to Pille, Knoth & Marks. In 1585, however, Mr. Marks withdrew and purchased the stock of Hugh Burns at sheriff sale. He then founded his present successful business and in the intervening twenty-four years he has built wp an extensive trade in stoves and tinware. He is the only exclusive stove dealer in Ashland and in connection with the sale of the goods which he handles he does slate metal and composition roofing and was the first to introduce slate roofing into Ashland county. He is the patentee and manufacturer of a slate trimming machine which has received universal endorsement and is today not only widely used among the slate roofers of this country but also of foreign countries. He is today ranked among Ashland's foremost business men and is a stockholder in and vice president and director of the Ashland Steel Range Company.

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

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

George W. Millar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arthur J. Sprinkle

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

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

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

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

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

Josiah Scott established his home in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1778, removing to that locality from York, Pennsylvania. He was among the earliest settlers in what was then Catfish but is now Washington, Pennsylvania, where he spent his remaining days and reared a large family, including Alexander Scott, who was the eldest. The latter's brother, James Scott, was the founder of the Presbyterian church in Mount Vernon and in Knox county, Ohio, and was a distinguished representative of the ministry. Another brother, Abraham Seott, settled in Jefferson county, Ohio, and both were among the pioneers in establishing the Presbyterian church in this state. Mrs. Violet Colmey, the eldest daughter of Alexander Scott, son of Josiah, had a large family that ineluded four sons who entered the ministry. Of these William, Robert and David all became prominent as representatives of the Presbyterian clergy. Another distinguished representative of the family was Judge Josiah Scott, who was on the supreme bench of Ohio for seventeen years. He was a brother of John Scott.

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

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

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

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

Samuel H. Grabill

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

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

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

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

George Judson Mitchelson

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

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