Ashland City (part 45 of 57)

In the early '60s Mr. Heltman made himself influentially known in political circles, and in 1863 was elected clerk of the court of common pleas by a majority of two hundred and seventy votes and performed the duties of this office for three months, when the return of the soldier vote from the field of battle gave the office to Captain S. M. Barber by a slight majority. To the responsible position of town treasurer he was elected in 1865, during which year he was nominated on the democratic ticket for county treasurer, to which office he was elected by a large majority, being reelected also in 1867, and his performance of his duties as custodian of the money of the commonwealth was in every way satisfactory and strong evidence of his administrative and financial ability. Upon the expiration of his term of office he engaged in the dry-goods business, this being between the years 1871 and 1873, but in 1874 he disposed of his interests and engaged in the grocery and queensware business. In 1879, in company with W. T. Alberson, he became one of the owners and publisher of the Ashland Press, and during the four years to which he gave his financial support and influence to this enterprise the Press attained phenomenal success and was given a wider range of usefulness. In 1882 he was elected a member of the board of education of Ashland, continuing as a constituent of this body until 1889, in the meantime serving as clerk of the board for one term and for two terms as president. While in this position it is said that more than any other man in this vicinity he was influential in establishing a non-partisan school board, and under the new system the schools were made more efficient, so 'that they attained a rank equal to those of any part of the state. His political power soon became widely known owing to his excellent judgment and administrative ability, together with his honesty, and desiring the highest good of the people, and he was soon chosen as a candidate for mayor of the city and for four terms served in this capacity with exceptional credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of the people. He is of German descent and possesses all the sturdy and stalwart characteristics of his race, and both in his political and business careers has evidenced that conservative judgment common to his people together with that practical economy which has made his such a useful service to the people, his highest purpose as a political factor being first to do what he could for their betterment and for that of the city of which he is a citizen and was chief executive. He belongs to the order of Free Masons and for a number of years has been worshipful master of Ashland Lodge. Mr. Heltman is widely known through his integrity and capacity as a business man, being upright and honest in all his dealings, and as a man whose influence is based almost exclusively upon his outward acts which are evidences of the high ideals he follows, and enjoying the reputation of being one of the foremost who has the interests of his city and its people at heart, he is in every sense of the word an influential representative of Ashland, for whose advancement he has contributed many years of time, labor and ability.

Newton J. Sprinkle

Newton J. Sprinkle, who for many years has been influentially associated with the farming and stock-raising interests of Sullivan township, was born in Troy township, August 11, 1862, a son of John and Catherine (Sponsler) Sprinkle, his parents having come from Columbiana county, to that township at an early day, where they resided on a farm. Mr. Sprinkle spent his life in producing general crops and raising stock and although he did not have many acres of land his knowledge of soils and adaptation of crops enabled him to derive from his smali acreage more bountiful harvests than many reaped from many times the extent of land which he tilled. He was highly respected throughout the community for his honesty and upright life. He passed away in February, 1903, and is survived by his widow.

In the district schools of Troy township Newton J. Sprinkle acquired his education, in the meantime assisting his father in the general duties of the farm until he was eighteen years of age when, ambitious to become independent in life, he sought employment elsewhere and worked for himself until he was united in marriage, at which period of his life he began farming in Orange township, where he remained for five years. At the termination of that time he removed to Huntington, Lorain county, where he engaged in farming for ten years and in 1901, settled on his present farm. It contains ninety-three acres, which he devotes to the production of general crops and stock-raising and although his farm is small it is one of the most highly improved and tillable in the county. His residence and all his buildings are modern and substantial and the premises are equipped with every convenience with which to make agriculture a paying proposition.

On January 11, 1887, Mr. Sprinkle wedded Miss Etta F. Sheets, daughter of John and Mary (Tranger) Sheets, her father, a farmer of Orange township. To this union have been born: Mary, Osro Perry, Grace Beth, Ada B., John C., deceased, and Carl. Mr. Sprinkle affiliates with the democratic party for whose candidates he has always cast his vote with one exception and that in the case of the late James A. Garfield for whom he had a profound admiration. For several years he has officiated as a member of the school board in the localities in which he has lived and, being a public-spirited man, he takes a deep interest in every movement which purposes the public good. He is in particular a strong advocate of a progressive educational system. While he did not have the advantages of training in a higher educational institution, yet being a mau susceptible to learning and desirous for information, his extensive reading has covered almost every topic and he is conversant upon a wide range of subjects. Along the lines of his own business, his reading and study have been especially profound and he has kept abreast of the times as to the best methods of farming and has given particular attention to the adaptation, rotation and nature of the various crops. Although he lives a busy life he never loses sight of his religions obligations and, with the members of his family, attends services at the Congregational church. Mr. Sprinkle is known throughout the township for his enterprise and aggressiveness and also for his exemplary life, and is numbered among its representative citizens.

S. L. Karth, who conducts an extensive hardware business in Ashland, was born in this city, July 21, 1875, a son of Henry J. and Margaret (Shopbell) Karth. His father was born in 1842, while his mother, a native of this place, was born in 1852, their marriage having occurred in the year 1870. When in his third year, Henry J. Karth was brought by his parents to Ashland county, where he received a meager education in the district schools and where, when he became of age, he bought a farm, on which he is still pursuing general agriculture, his farm containing fifty acres, four and one-half miles north of the village of Ashland. The land is highly improved and kept continually under cultivation. He has held a number of township offices among them being road supervisor, in which capacity he served for several years. He is not affiliated with any secret societies or fraternal organizations, preferring rather to live within the comforts of his home circle. A democrat in politics he has always been loyal to that party while his religious faith allies him with that Christian sect, known as the Dunkards.

In the common schools S. L. Karth acquired his preliminary education, subsequently becoming a student at Ada College, this state, from which he was graduated in 1897, receiving diplomas for completing the work of a scientific course and also a commercial course. His first work was done upon his father's farm, assisting in the daily routine of agricultural life, and in 1898, the year following his graduation, he entered the employ of the Union Hardware Company, with which firm he continued for three years, at the expiration of which period he purchased a quarter interest in the McCreedy Hardware Company, remaining as a member of the firm for the period of a year when he sold out and started in the same business for himself at his present location. He has since been carrying on an enterprise of large proportions. His store is in every particular modern, a special feature of his business being an apartment devoted to all kinds of farm implements and fertilizers. He is always ready to accomodate his country trade, keeping on hand at all times the articles which they are most likely to demand, and adjoining his store he has a livery and feed barn. So great has been his success that his volume of trade since the first year has brought up his receipts from thirteen thousand dollars until last year he transacted a business amounting to forty thousand dollars, which was nineteen thousand dollars in excess of the business he transacted during the previous year. In 1908, he admitted his brother, I. J., to a partnership, the firm name being known as S. L. Karth & Brother. Ilis great success he attributes to good management and the careful and honest treatment of his customers.

On the 29th of March, 1900, Mr. Karth wedded Miss Ethel Fluke, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Fluke, residents of this county and to this union have been born: Opal Lucile, Harold, deceased, and Lois Elizabeth. Mr. Karth votes the republican ticket, believing firmly in the wisdom of its principles and in the advisability of the policies it advocates and during campaigns his influence and vote are not wanting in behalf of the candidates of his party. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias and also to the Methodist church and enjoys the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens.

Fernando Rice

Fernando Rice, who for many years was engaged in general farming and stock raising in Sullivan township, is the oldest living representative of a family who were among the earliest and most prominent pioneers of this section. He was born here January 9, 1836, a son of Perez and Lucy (Chamberlain) Rice, both of whom were from New England families who came to this state about the year 1813, settling in what is now called Sullivan township. They made the long tedious journey to the west by canal to Buffalo, New York, thence by boat to Cleveland and from that place by wagons, in which they also carried their household goods to this township. Upon their arrival here they found the country thickly covered with timber and far removed from any place where they might obtain provisions. Consequently they experienced all the difficulties, privations and hardships of pioneer life. Their neighbors were few and in like circumstances and all joined together cheerfully in the task of making themselves comfortable. The first work was to cut down trees and prepare logs for the erection of cabins in which they might find shelter from the varying weather. By their hard labors and perseverance the new country was soon cleared and put into shape for cultivation and presently their hearts were lightened by the appearance of the harvest and from year to_year they were attended by prosperity until from amid comfortable circumstances they could look back over the past, realizing that their youthful energies had been well spent. They are to be numbered among those to whom the present generation is indebted for the roads which they cut through the forests and for many of the bridges which now span the streams and marshes. Perez Rice departed this life in the year 1844, his wife surviving him forty-three years, her death occurring in July, 1887. In their family were six children, three of whom survive, namely: Olivia, who became the wife of Henry Rogers; Ruvina, who wedded Edgar Rogers, of Troy township; and Fernando. The elder son, Rosolvo departed this life January 2, 1908.

On the land on which his people located Fernando Rice was reared and participated in the experiences of pioneer life, assisting the other members of the family in the work of making ready portions of the land for cultivation and in the tilling of the soil on those portions which had already been cleared. During the winter months he attended the log schoolhouse, where he acquired his education. He resided for sometime on his father's property and his present home was formerly his great uncle's, the farm covering in the neighborhood of six hundred acres, all being in one plot except where it is cut by public roads. He las given much attention to stock raising and to this end has developed considerable grazing land, his fields for this purpose being as fine as there are in the county. For about twelve years he engaged in the manufacture of cheese, for which he gained a wide reputation, but gave up this enterprise in the year 1873 and turned his attention principally to stock breeding. He raises cattle and sheep and usually ships many carloads to the markets throughout the state. His sons are also interested in farming and each has his own modern home, located near the old homestead and they also have their own barns, outbuildings and other conveniences with which to carry on their work.

On November 10, 1862, Mr. Rice was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Stowell, daughter of William and Mary (Shaw) Stowell. Her father came from Plainfield, Massachusetts, to this state in the fall of 1850. Prior to that time he had been engaged in the mercantile business in his native state, but upon coming here, followed the occupation of farming. In his family were three children, namely: William H., Venila and Lydia. To Mr. and Mrs. Rice have been born six children. Stowell W. and Stanley F. are farmers.

Corinne, the eldest daughter, who was graduated from Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, taught school for several years, including five years at Oberlin University. She subsequently attended the law department of Chicago University from which she was graduated and, admitted to the bar, is now practicing law in Chicago, Illinois. Blanch L., who is highly cultured and who for several years was connected with the 'devel in McGregor, Illinois, and Windom, Minnesota, became the wife of Frank Williams, of Montana. Walton P. is a farmer. Celestine is a graduate of Oberlin University and for several years past has been connected with the schools of Decatur, Illinois, as a teacher. The three sons who are united in marriage, are engaged in farming on the home place.

In politics Mr. Rice is a republican and since he cast his first vote fo. Abraham Lincoln in 1860 he has been loyal to that party. He is in favor of public improvements, especially good roads and an excellent school system. He has served as township trustee, to which position he was elected when twenty-one years of age and for a number of years has been an efficient member of the district school board. Together with the members of his family he attends divine services at the Baptist church of which he is a trustee and a liberal supporter. Mr. Rice is a man of excellent character, whose example has always been for good and he merits the confidence and respect of his neighbors and is accounted one of the most valued citizens of the county.

J. F. Welty, well known in the business circles of Ashland, for many years was connected with the Freer Brothers clothing establishment but is now auditor elect of Ashland county. He was born in Jeromesville, August 28, 1859, a son of William and Rosanna (Hichelbarger) Welty. His father, a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, born in 1827, came to this county with his parents before the city of Ashland was incorporated. The family settled in Hayesville, where he was reared and where the grandfather of the subject of this review, Samuel Welty, operated a harness manufactory in which William Welty was employed, learning the trade of harnessmaking under the instructions of his father. After becoming:a journeyman he followed the occupation for some time, subsequently giving it up in order to engage in the hotel business, and for a period of thirty years was one of the most popular innkeepers of Jeromesville, where he is now living retired.

At home under the supervision of his parents J. F. Welty was reared, acquiring his education in the public schools of his native city and also in the Hayesville Academy, and when in his twenty-first year he left the parental roof and, coming to this city, secured employment as a salesman in the clothing establishment of Freer Brothers, with whom he has since remained with the exception of two years spent in the employ of Hull & Dutton, of Cleveland, and four years spent as a traveling salesman. During his experience as a salesman for Freer Brothers he became thoroughly familiar with every phase of the clothing business and today has the reputation of being one of the most efficient men in that line of business in these parts. His success as a salesman won him wide popularity and this position acted as a medium to bring him in contact with the people with whom he was held in such favor as to justify him in running for the office of county auditor, to which office he was elected in 1908 to become an incumbent in October, 1909.

On September 23, 1908, Mr. Welty was united in marriage to Miss Pauline Van Devander, of this city. He is a stanch democrat politically, and a strong and able advocate of its principles, and the prominent place he occupies as a fellower of democracy is manifest in the fact of his being nominated for the responsible office, the duties of which he will presently assume. Well known socially, and also among the fraternal organizations, he belongs to the Colonial Club of Ashland, and to Jerome Lodge, No. 655, K. of P. His long experience in business circles has developed within him that degree of mature judgment and administrative ability which will admirably serve him in performing the responsible duties of county auditor.

John A. Henderson

John A. Henderson, a retired thresher of Savannah, Clear Creek township, _was born July 25, 1848, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, a son of David and Mary (Philips) Henderson, who came to this country in 1854, making the voyage on the sailing vessel, Aurora, the trip requiring nine weeks, most of which time the passage was delayed by a severe tempest. Landing at the mouth of the St. Lawrence river they continued their journey by boat to Cleveland, Ohio, and thence by wagon to Clear Creek township, this county, where they made their home. David Henderson was a stone mason by trade and plied his craft, in connection with carrying on general husbandry, until death terminated his work. His life was one of great usefulness as was also that of his wife. Both having been members of the orthodox Scotch Presbyterian church, they exerted a telling influence for good throughout the community by their upright and industrious lives. 'T'wo sons, the subject of this review and Robert P., are still residents of Savannah, their brother George having passed away before attaining manhood.

John A. Henderson spent his boyhood days with his father upon the farm, there engaging in agricultural duties and acquired his education in the district schools of his native village, subsequently pursuing a course of study in Savannah Academy. Upon completing his education he at once took up the occupation of threshing, which for an uninterrupted period of forty-two years he followed with splendid success, his financial standing becoming better from year to year until finally he was justified in retiring from the active duties of life and is now living in the village of Savannah, enjoying some of the fruits of his many years of honest application.

On December 25, 1872, Mr. Henderson wedded Miss Mary Ann Walker, daughter of Theodore and Margaret Ann (Adams) Walker, also natives of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, who came to the new world in 1854 on the sailing vessel, Jean Boyd. They disembarked at New York harbor and immediately continued their journey by rail, canal boat and wagon to their destination in Troy township where Mr. Walker plied his trade as a stone mason and at the same time followed the occupation of farming. He was a man well known throughout the community, being noted for his honesty and enterprise and at the same time for his exemplary life, having been influential in doing much toward heightening the moral and spiritual life of those with whom he associated. To Mr. and Mrs. Henderson have been born five children, namely: Robert M., and Theodore N., twins; Stella, a very popular and successful school teacher ; David A.; and Carl S. Robert M. is married, as is also his twin brother, Theodore N., both of whom follow the occupation of farming, while David <A. takes care of his father's business as a thresher. Carl S. is also married and lives in Savannah.

Mr. Henderson is popular in local affairs, having served the township as constable for nine years and assessor for two years. For the past twelve terms he has been justice of the peace and during that period has also been performing the duties of notary public. For many years he officiated as a member of the district school board and at present is a member of -the village council, in which he exerts a wide influence in bringing about movements designed for the betterment of the community. In politics he has always been a republican, active in the affairs of his party and.invariably at the polls on election days to do what he can to secure the election of his favorite candidates. No man in the community is more progressive in his ideas and willing to take hold of and further all plans which purport in any way to benefit the vicinity. He, with the members of his family, belongs to the United Presbyterian church, in which for over twenty years he has served in the office of elder. Mr. Henderson is remarkably intelligent and his conversational powers render him a welcome guest at social gatherings, many of which are brought together in his own home, his residence being one of the finest in the village and the rendezvous of his many friends, where they invariably meet with hospitable reception.

Andrew Jackson Mumper

Andrew Jackson Mumper, a well known representative of farming interests in Ashland county, now resides on section 3, Hanover township, where he gives his attention to the cultivation of the soil and to stock raising. His farm with its many excellent improvements constitutes one of the attractive features of the landseape, and in its midst is a beautiful country home whick is one of the finest in the county. Mr. Mumper is a native of Knox county, Ohio, his birth having oceurred in Jefferson township, August 22, 1841. His parents, Andrew and Elizabeth (Bryan) Mumper, were both natives of York county, Pennsylvania. The father was born September 5, 1816, and their marriage was celebrated in 1835. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Andrew Mumper, who. was born near Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, and died on a farm south of Hayesville, Ohio, where he first located on coming to this county. It was a tract of two hundred and fifty acres which he brought under a high state of cultivation, continuing its improvement until his demise. He was a son of Michael Mumper, a native of Germany, who came to the new world about two hundred years ago and settled in Pennsylvania. He was then a poor boy and had not money enough to pay his passage, so that he was bound out to one who paid the sum and claimed his services until he should be remunerated for the money expended. Michael Mumper had two children, a daughter, who married a Mr. Long, and a son, Michael, who married Ann Bushholder. They had the following children: John, Andrew, Frederick, Abraham, Henry, Elizabeth, Michael, Katharine, David and Samuel.

Removing to Ashland, which was then a part of Richland county, the parents of our subject spent their remaining days in the vicinity of Loudonville. The father purchased some timber land in Jefferson township, Knox county, Ohio, and it was while he was engaged in clearing that tract to which he devoted only a few years, that the birth of his son, Andrew Jackson Mumper, occurred. When the task was completed there Andrew Mumper, Sr., returned with his family to Ashland county and both he and his wife died in Green township, his death occurring when he had reached the age of seventy-five years, while his wife passed away at the age of sixty-five years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Mumper were born eight children: William, Frances and Mary, all deceased; Andrew J., of this review; Margaret; Katharine; Joseph, deceased; and Virginia, who died in infancy.

Andrew J. Mumper spent the first six years of his life in the county of his nativity and then accompanied his parents to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1847. They located on a farm south of Hayesville in Green township, where they resided for two years and then removed to a farm in Vermillion township, which was also their home for two years. On the expiration of that period they returned to Green township and during this period Andrew Mumper assisted in the farm work as his age and strength permitted. His education was acquired in the public schools and throughout the summer months he: toiled in the fields. On the 18th of November, 1861, Mr. Mumper responded to his country's call for troops and enlisted as a member of Company G, Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry under Captain Orlo Smith of Ashland. He was discharged in July, 1862, because of disability, and returned home, there residing up to the time of his marriage. He bought ninety acres of land in Green township near the old home and for six years devoted his energies to its care and improvement. Since 1870, or for a period of almost thirty-nine years, he has resided on his present farm which comprises one hundred and twenty acres a mile and a half west of Loudonville on the Loudonville and Newville road. He has a fine home built in attractive style of architecture. It is very commodious, containing eleven rooms and is beautifully and attractively furnished. It was erected in 1883 and is one of the finest country homes in this part of the county. Mr. Mumper has made all of the improvements upon his farm and the substantial outbuildings which furnish shelter for grain and stock, the well kept fences and the improved farm machinery aré all indications of his life of well directed thrift and energy. He gives his time to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and also to the raising of stock, both branches of his business proving profitable. In all of his business affairs he displays an

In 1867 Mr. Mumper was married to Miss Hannah Louisa Hite, who was born in Green township, Ashland county, Ohio, near Perrysville, November 3, 1844. She is a daughter of James and Katharine (Thomas) Hite, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. Both died in Hanover township, Ashland county. Mr..and Mrs. Mumper have three children, namely: Mary, now the wife of A. H. Sillwill of the city of Ashland; Harry O., who owns eighty acres constituting a farm adjoining the old home place and is married and has three sons, Earl, Ralph and Irvin; Katharine, who died at the age of eighteen years.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Mumper are members of the Baptist church of Loudonville, with which they have been connected throughout the entire period of their married life. Mr. Mumper served on the building committee of the church and they have always been interested in its work and generous in its support. He likewise holds membership in Fisher Post, No. 309, G. A. R., of Loudonville. He gives his political allegiance to the democracy and was one of the first jury commissioners of Ashland county, in which capacity he served for five years, having at that time three colleagues. He was also township trustee for twelve years and served on the township school board for twenty-four consecutive years. He has always been a stalwart champion of the cause of education and his labors have been very helpful in advancing the efficiency of the public schools in this vicinity. In fact he stands for progress at all times and under all conditions and the spirit of advancement which actuates him is manifest in his own business affairs as well as in relations to the public. "He possesses a determination that enables him to carry forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes and at all times his business transactions are conducted in harmony with the strictest business ethics.

David Long

For a half century David Long has been a representative of the farming interests of Lake township. He was born January 19, 1850, on the farm where he now resides and the years have witnessed his unabating energy and careful management of his business affairs so that he eventually became one of the substantial and prosperous citizens of his community. His influence, moreover, is always given on behalf of justice, truth, right and progress and his labors have been a beneficial element in promoting the welfare of the community. He is a son of John George and Margaret (Merkling) Long, and a grandson of John G. Long, who was born in Alsace, France, in 1798. He crossed the Atlantic to America in 1828 when thirty years of age and first settled in Stark county, Ohio, where he remained for ten years. He then removed to Ashland county, taking up his abode in Lake township and all his life he engaged in farming. He was a member of the Lutheran church in which he served as elder for twenty years and his life was ever in consistent harmony with its teachings. He married

Katharine Barnhart in Alsace, France, and they have become the parents of five children: John George; Peter B., who married Saloma Kantzer; John B.; Adam B., who married Barbara Wives} and one child who died in REIS. The father of these children passed away in 1868 while the mother's death occurred in 1875. j

John George Long, father of our subject, was born in Alsace, France, in 1822 and came to America with his father at the age of six years. He spent his remaining days in Ashland county where his time and energies were devoted to the tilling of the soil. He wedded Miss Margaret Merkling in 1843. "She was born in Germany and was but three years of age when brought by her parents to Ohio. They continued to reside in Ashland county from the time of their marriage until their demise, Mrs. Long passing away February 14, 1882. in her fifty-eighth year, while Mr. Long died January 18, 1903, at the age of eighty years. He was quite prominent in community affairs, held the office of supervisor, was also school director for several years and gave his political allegiance to the democracy. He held membership in the Lutheran church and served as one of its deacons for more than a third of a century. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: Katharine, who became the wife of John Peters, of Lake township; Philip, who married Paulina Merklinger and resides in Columbus; George, who wedded Christina Priest and died in Wayne county ; David of this review; Samuel, who died in childhood; John D., who died in Clinton township and Simon Peter, pastor of the First Lutheran church of Mansfield, Ohio.

David Long has always resided upon the farm where his birth occurred. He acquired his education in the public schools and was trained to the work of the fields, early becoming familiar with the best methods of plowing, planting and cultivating the land and caring for the harvests. His life of diligence has been rewarded with success and he is now the owner of eighty acres in the home place and a farm of forty acres in Plain township, Wayne county, about-a mile east of the farm on which he now resides. His entire life has been devoted to tilling the soil and he now has a well improved place upon which are good buildings that he erected. His work has béen carefully managed and his unfaltering diligence has made him one of the substantial agriculturists of the community.

Mr. Long has been married twice. In October, 1873, he wedded Caroline Hipp, who was born in Hanover township, Ashland county, Ohio, October 21, 1854, and died in the fall of 1894. She was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Hansler) Hipp, natives of Germany. By that marriage there were ten children: Sarah Margaret; Martin Luther; George Peter; Theodore Philip, who died at the age of two years; Ida Katharine; Rena Elizabeth, the wife of Louis Richard, of Knox county, Ohio, by whom she has a daughter Mildred; Dora Henrietta, who is the wife of Fay Chase, living on a farm near Ashland ; Thornton M., at home; Paul Edward; and Miriam May, who died in infancy. Having lost his first wife Mr. Long was married in 1896 to her sister, Miss Sarah Katharine Hipp, a native of Hanover township.

In his political views Mr. Long was a stalwart democrat and has filled school and road offices. He belongs to the German Lutheran church of McZena, of which he is one of the trustees and was on the building committee when the new house of worship was erected. He did much of the team work himself and assisted materially in putting up the church. He is a man of unfaltering honesty and business integrity and displays those qualities which in every land and clime awaken confidence and regard.

Eben E. Dudley

Eben E. Dudley, a prosperous farmer and representative citizen of Sullivan township, was born in this locality June 30, 1857. His parents, Alfred L. and Mary Ann (Harrison) Dudley, were natives of Hartford, Connecticut, and came to this state as a young married couple, settling in Medina county, where they spent a few years and then removed to Sullivan township, where they remained on a farm for the.rest of their days, the father having departed this afe August 24, 1878. His wife survived him by eighteen years, her death having occurred in November, 1896. In the family were eight children: Eben E.; Mary A., who became the wife of Leander Loomis, of Sullivan township; Bela D. L., of Camstota, South Dakota; and Frederick A., of Sioux Falls, that state. The other children are deceased.

On his father's farm Eben E. Dudley was reared and there enjoyed the usual experiences common to the country lad, engaging in the routine of agricultural life during the summer months and in the winter time attending the district school, where he acquired his education. Upon leaving school he remained under the parental roof and has since applied his energies to the cultivation of the home farm, except an interval of a few years which he spent as a traveling salesman for various merchandise companies. His farm is in a desirable location, has upon it sufficient timber for ordinary purposes and is provided with all the necessary improvements with which to carry on the work successfully. The attention which Mr. Dudley has given it has made it one of the best tracts of land for the production of general crops that can be found in the county. He has made quite a study of the soils for the purpose of so arranging the rotation of crops as to derive the maximum yield per acre and his experiments have been so successful that he annually reaps abundant harvests. He gives some attention to stock raising, his horses being of excellent breeds and keeps on hand a number of head of the finest specimens of cattle, sheep and hogs, in which he does a shipping business throughout the state. Being an agriculturist he is always on the alert for innovations by which to carry on farming to the best advantage and has all the machinery requisite to agriculture and does his farming strictly upon modern principles.

On December 14, 1891, Mr. Dudley was united in marriage to Rosa A. Becker, a daughter of Hiram and Rosa L. (Fisher) Becker of Lorain county, the former a lake captain. To this union 'have been born seven children, namely: York, Florence R., Fern, Hope, Dorothy, Dot L. and Thomas. Mr. Dudley has taken quite an interest in local affairs and has filled the offices of road supervisor and township assessor. He is an advocate of general good roads and was a strong supporter of the central school system, which was finally adopted by this township and which has since proved eminently satisfactory. | Among the fraternal organizations with which he is affiliated are the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and the Knights of Maccabees. His political faith is that of the republican party and while he is not an active politician he takes sufficient interest in public affairs to keep himself well informed regarding paramount issues and regularly casts his vote for the candidates of his party. He is a man who is in every respect aggressive and his industry and high moral character merit the confidence and respect of his neighbors.

Guetelius I. Yearick

In an analyzation of the life record of any individual it is usually found that certain pronounced characteristics and qualities bring him prominently before the public. In a review of the life record of Mr. Yearick one cannot fail to be impressed with the fact that it was because of a friendly nature and appreciation on his part of the good qualities in others, and his deference for the opinions of those whom he met that Mr. Yearick was so universally esteemed and respected. He made friends wherever he went and thus his death was the occasion of deep and wide spread regret when he passed away. He was born in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania, August 11, 1829, a son of Peter and Katharine (Guetelius) Yearick. He was a little lad of ten years when his parents came to Ashland county, where both spent their remaining days. Here the son was reared to manhood, attending the public schools. The family home during his youthful days was at Red Haw, Ashland county, and at the age of twelve years he was apprenticed to a turner and painter, under whom he mastered the business. He afterward worked at his trade in Ashland county, in western Ohio and in eastern Indiana until 1855 and in the latter year returned to this county where he embarked in business as a furniture dealer. The following year, however, he suffered a heavy loss by fire. He resumed operations in that line and continued in the trade until 1860 when he sold out to Colonel J. D. Stubbs. The following year, 1861, Mr. Yearick responded to the country's call, enlisting as a member of the Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and became a recruiting officer. After the close of the war he established a loan agency in Ashland and conducted the business until 1869, when he was elected county treasurer on the democratic ticket. He was a stalwart supporter of that party, believing that its platform contained the best elements of good government, and during campaigns he used his aid and influence to further the principles of the democracy. He continued in the office of county treasurer from 1870 until 1874 and made an excellent record as a custodian of the public funds. On his retirement from official life he resumed the loan business, and. later branched out into other fields in the establishment of a livery business in partnership with Nelson Thomas. From that time until his death he devoted his energies to both enterprises and was sole proprietor of the livery stable for some years, having bought out his partner's interest. As a loan agent he was very successful, doing a big business in negotiating and placing loans, having among his clients many of the best known people of the county. In all of his business relations he was thoroughly reliable and his spirit of enterprise, combined with unfaltering industry won him his prosperity.

On the 17th of December, 1889, Mr. Yearick was married in Hartford, Connecticut, to Miss Carrie Maude Hamilton, a daughter of Thomas S. and Maria E. (Terry) Hamilton, both of whom are now deceased. They were the parents of seven children of whom three are yet living: Mrs. M. A. Rose and Thomas S. Hamilton, who are residents of Connecticut; and Mrs. Yearick, of this review. By her marriage she has one son, Leo G., who was born January 20, 1891, and who manifests the utmost filial love and devotion to his mother. He is a graduate of the Ashland high school and is now filling the position of message clerk in the senate at Columbus. Mrs. Yearick is a member of the Presbyterian church and enjoys the friendship and warm regard of many who know her. She now owns a fine residence on Claremont avenue and also the livery barn in the city of Ashland.

Mr. Yearick belonged to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F., of Ashland, and was popular among his brethren of that fraternity. His death occurred August 3, 1898. He had long been accounted one of the leading citizens of Ashland county. He had a distinctive air that marked him as a gentleman of unfailing courtesy and easy and cordial address. His business interests brought him wide acquaintance, while his attractive social qualities won him warm friends, not only in Ashland, but also throughout adjoining counties. He was cordial and genial in nature, possessed of grace of manner and a spirit of friendliness, which were well calculated to retain the friendship of all with whom he came in contact. He was a man of fine physique and striking personal appearance and the substantial and sterling qualities of his character enabled him to retain his hold upon the affections of his colleagues and

Leonidas 8S. Shearer

Leonidas S. Shearer is engaged in the cultivation of a farm of two hundred and sixteen acres on which he has made his home since 1882. He was born about one and one-half miles from this place in Clinton township, Wayne county, Ohio, June 5, 1834. His entire life has been passed in this neighborhood with the exception of about four and a half years, and he has therefore long been a witness of the development and progress of the county. His parents were John and Mahala (Webster) Shearer, the former born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, May 11, 1811, while the mother was born in Vermont, May 15, 1815. John Shearer came to Ohio with his parents in 1822 when a lad of eleven years. He was a son of Peter Shearer, whose family numbered four children: Katharine, who became the wife of Joseph Whitford; John; Samuel; and Peter. On the homestead farm which his father secured John Shearer was reared to manhood and his entire life was devoted to general agricultural pursuits. Both he and his wife died on the farm where the birth of our subject occurred, the date of his death being May 20, 1876, while his wife died in July, 1880. She had come from Vermont to Ohio about 1817 and settled in what is now Lake township, Ashland county, where Mr. and Mrs. Webster spent their remaining days. He was considered one of the wealthy men of the locality. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shearer were born five children: Leonidas §.; Ashel W., who was an auctioneer and farmer and who is now deceased; Louisa D., the deceased wife of Frederick Kelser; John P., who was formerly a farmer of Lake township, but is now living in Akron, Ohio; and Joseph W., who resides on the old homestead in Wayne county.

Leonidas S. Shearer was reared under the parental roof and early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agiculturist. He has always lived in the locality where he yet makes his home, save for a period of four and a half years immediately following the Civil war, which he spent in Kendallville, Noble county, Indiana. His education was acquired in the common schools and he afterward engaged in teaching for seven winter terms. Most of his life has been devoted to the general work of the farm, but for a time he also engaged in dealing in garden products and in conducting a grocery business. He has resided on his present farm since 1882 and he and his wife own together two hundred and sixteen acres of rich and valuable land on section 22, Lake township, on which are two sets of good buildings, one set of which was erected by Mr. Shearer. The place presents a most attractive appearance, for an air of neatness and thrift pervades it in every department, and the fields through the spring and summer months promise rich harvests in the autumn. He is practical in all of his methods and is imbued with a progressive spirit in his work. Round lake is situated on his farm, a beautiful little body of water to which people frequently make excursions in the summer for an outing.

Mr. Shearer has been married twice. In 1856 he wedded Martha Steward and unto them were born three children, who died in early life. On the 26th of September, 1882, Mr. Shearer wedded Sarah J. Metcalf, who was born in Lake township near her present home, which was once the property of her father. She is a daughter of Allen and Mary (Goudy) Metcalf, and her birth occurred May 24, 1846. Mr. and Mrs. Shearer are consistent members of the Baptist church of Loudonville, and his political allegiance is given to the republican party, but he does not seek nor desire office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs, the capable management of which have brought to him most gratifying success.

Stephen Barrick

Stephen Barrick represented the business interests of Orange township as a farmer and carpenter. He was born August 16, 1826, in Columbiana county, Ohio, and was a son of George and Sarah (Wolfe) Barrick. His father was a farmer by occupation and in 1824 came to Ohio. After a few years he settled in Troy township and gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits through-

Stephen Barrick was reared to manhood on the home farm, aiding in the labors of the fields through the summer months while in the publie schools he acquired his early education. He afterward learned the carpenter's trade and followed that pursuit in connection with general farming. His life was one of intense and well directed activity in which he had few leisure moments. His time was always well employed and his labors brought him a substantial profit so that he always had not only the necessities but many of the comforts of life.

On the 17th of January, 1850, he was married to Miss Catherine Chilcoat, whose death occurred February 16, 1866. On the 5th of December, 1867, Mr. Barrick was united in marriage to Miss Martha A. Chilcoat, a sister of his first wife and a daughter of Elisha and Martha (Tucker) Chilcoat, the former a native of Bedford county, Pennsylvania, born June 26, 1790. Having arrived at years of maturity the father was married in Ashland county, Ohio, in 1819, to Miss Tucker, whose birth occurred in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in April, 1803. They became the parents of five children, John, Margaret, Catherine, Rachel and Martha. The father was a farmer who devoted his entire life to tilling the soil, carrying on the work of the fields until his labors were ended in death on the 12th of March, 1854. His wife continued to reside in Orange township for many years, passing away on the 8th of May, 1884. Their daughter Martha, when a young lady, engaged in teaching school, following that profession for thirteen years. She capably conducted the schools where she was employed and thus was a factor in the early intellectual progress of the county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Barrick has been born one son, George W., who is now living with his mother on the old home farm. He is a man of affairs, enterprising and succeSsful in his business interests, and is now the owner of considerable property. His integrity and true worth have gained him the unqualified respect and confidence of all with whom he has been associated.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Barrick began their domestic life upon a farm in Orange township where Mrs. Barrick now resides. In addition to tilling the fields, Mr. Barrick also worked at the carpenter's trade. As his son advanced in years and strength he largely assumed the work of the farm and in addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he became a large producer of sugar and syrup, having eleven hundred maples upon his place. The old homestead is a valuable property, constituting one of the attractive features of the landscape.

Mr. Barrick was not only active in business but also a factor in the public affairs of the community. He was frequently called upon for office by the vote.of his fellow townsmen who recognized his worth and ability. He acted for many years as assessor and was chosen county commissioner in 1875, for a three years' term, at the expiration of which he was again called to that office, so that his incumbency covered six years and was characterized by the utmost fidelity to duty. No trust reposed in him was ever betrayed in the slightest degree and his life was all that was exemplary of a progressive and publicspirited citizenship. In politics he was a democrat who regarded the platform of the party as the exponent of the best principles of good government. Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Polk, and in the various departments of the church work he was interested and to its support contributed generously. He died in that faith on the 10th of May, 1895, when in the sixty-ninth year of his age, and his remains were interred at Nankin. His personal worth, his loyalty and 'progressiveness in citizenship and his faithfulness in friendship were such that the community mourned his loss, knowing that one of the very best citizens had passed from this life.

C. W. Landis, who conducts one of the largest grocery enterprises in this county, his place of business being located in Ashland, descends from three German families, the members of which are prominent in various parts of the United States. Judge Landis, of Chicago, Illinois, noted for his famous decision in relation to the Standard Oil Company, being a descendant of that part of the family originally from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, is his third cousin. His father, Samuel Landis, was a native of the Keystone state, where he was born in 1798. In 1828 he left Pennsylvania, locating in Richland county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm containing one hundred and sixty-six acres, which was then overgrown with timber. Being a man of strong constitution and great ambition, by the application of his energy he soon cleared off the land and had it under cultivation. He was the first man to grow barley in Richland county and it is thought that to him is to be accredited the honor of being the first barley grower in the state of Ohio. While he made a specialty of that grain he also produced large quantities of wheat and oats and became known throughout the county for the quality as well as the quantity of his crops. As to his personal habits, he was modest, his conduct being upright and in every sense commendable; a man noted for his compassion and also for his charity; possessed of the noblest qualities of the human character. His geniality made him friends of all with whom he associated, and it is said of him that he departed this life without leaving an enemy. Throughout his career he maintained a high degree of health, having been noted for his strength and vigor, and up until his eighty-second year he had never needed the services of a physician. At that advanced age he contracted pneumonia which, after two weeks illness, caused his death. His wife was Mary Brubaker, whose birth occurred in the Keystone state in 1824, and her death here in 1900, and by her he had three children: Susanna Landis Redding; Maria Landis Hiller; and Charles Wesley.

Charles Wesley Landis was born in Richland county, Ohio, February 12, 1866, and spent his boyhood days in the pursuit of agriculture with his father, in the meantime acquiring his preliminary education at the district schools, and subsequently pursuing a course of study at the schools of Ashland, this county, to which he removed on the Ist of April, 1882. On September 21, of that year, he engaged as a clerk in the grocery establishment of Poag & Brubaker, in whose employ he continued until 1894, in the meantime becoming familiar with the business and making himself an indispensable factor in the life of the firm. During that year he purchased a third interest in the enterprise, in 1898 became half owner and in 1905 sole proprietor of the business. With the exception of a few hundred dollars Mr. Landis has accumulated his fortune through his own energy and business ability and is now at the head of the largest grocery enterprise in the village of Ashland. His patronage has steadily increased since he assumed full management and his trade amounts to forty-three thousand dollars annually. He takes great pride in his store, being solicitous' at all times to handle only the very best commodities and particularly to please his patrons, and it is his consideration for the wishes of his customers, as well as to his careful business management, that much of his success is due. Aside from the grocery business he is connected with a number of other concerns and is vice president of the Reliable Match Company and director of the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company, and is one of three who own the patents of the United States cement block machine and the United States cement mixer, which are built by the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company.

On February 18, 1891, Mr. Landis wedded Miss Flora Jeannette Saal, who received her education in the public schools of Wooster, Ohio, and by whom he has three children, namely: Mary Aleen, whose birth occurred September 4, 1895; Lucile Jeannette, born December 10, 1899; and John Wesley, born September 6, 1906. The two older are pupils in the public schools of Ashland and it is the purpose of the parents to send them to the higher educational institutions. Politically Mr. Landis votes with the democratic party, belongs to every branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he is a trustee, and also to the tribe of Ben Hur. He is an enthusiastic church worker and for the past ten years has been a deacon in the Lutheran church in which he holds membership. Mr. Landis is also connected with the Building & Loan Association in the capacity of a director, and also serves in that position as a member of the Ashland Commercial Club which was organized recently. Influential in the financial affairs of Ashland county, Mr. Landis is one of the most beneficial factors in the business circles of the city where he is noted for his strong character and integrity.

Alvin Crittenden

Alvin Crittenden is proprietor of an extensive stock farm in Ruggles township, on which he engages in breeding thoroughbred Delaine sheep and is considered an authority on stock raising. He was here born October 1, 1855, a son of Medad and Sarah (Sutherland) Crittenden, both of whom removed westward from New York state in 1836, first settling on land now within the limits of the city of Chicago, Illinois, where he owned six hundred and forty acres of land. This he sold upon becoming dissatisfied with the place and located in Ruggles township, Ashland county, to which his wife's parents, Ebenezer and Sarah (Niffin) Sutherland, had preceded them. The Sutherland family were among the early pioneers and they took up extensive claims, their land being denominated as the Sutherland survey. The country was at the time largely a forest tract and their first residence was a log cabin constructed out of timber which they had hewn and dressed. The grandfather of the subject of this review and his father were extensive landowners here and together with the Sutherlands were among the most prominent, prosperous and influential families of the early days, while their descendants: are still among the representative residents of this community.

Medad Crittenden, father of him whose name heads this review, owned large tracts of land in Ruggles township on which he engaged in general farming, making a specialty of stock raising. Sheep breeding particularly commanded his attention and his flocks frequently numbered one thousand head. In the raising of sheep he became well known and was acknowledged to be one of the most successful stock men in this part of the county. After a useful and prosperous career he entered into rest in July, 1876, his wife having preceded him into the great beyond in February of the same year. They reared ten children, nine of whom attained maturity, and eight of whom now survive, namely: Inner, who sacrificed his life in the Union army during the Civil war; Phoebe J., who became the wife of Columbus Beech; Mary, the wife of Henry Fast; Charles; Henry; Orlando; Medad; Sarah, wife of Miles Beech; Ella, who is wedded to James Edwards; and Alvin.

On his father's farm Alvin Crittenden spent his boyhood days, engaging in general agricultural work and in the care of stock, in the meantime availing himself of the educational advantages of the district schools and subsequently pursuing a course of study in a private institution. Upon his father's farm he remained until he was married, when he removed to Troy township, engaging in farming there until 1882, when he settled upon his present farm, which contains four hundred and fifty-six acres of the finest land which can be found in this state. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits extensively and deals in all kinds of stock on a large scale. His farm is modern in all its departments, is kept constantly in a high state of cultivation and being thoroughly drained by the finest tile system and having substantial buildings, together with other conveniences necessary to agriculture and stock raising, it is unsurpassed by any farm in this part of the country. For some years Mr. Crittenden paid much attention to raising and breeding thoroughbred cattle and in 1886 he began to handle thoroughbred Delaine sheep, in which business he hag met with remarkable success and for many years has been recognized as one of the leading sheep breeders in the United States, his flocks usually numbering in the neighborhood of five hundred head, every one of which is registered and raised solely for breeding purposes. Annually he ships many to every state in the Union and he has even sent large flocks as far as South Africa. He has exhibited specimens of his flocks at the state and district fairs and also at the World's Fair and in every instance has succeeded in taking first place among his competitors. He sells his sheep anywhere from ten to five hundred dollars a head. His premises are known as the Cherry Home Sheep Farm. The buildings are modern in construction and everything about the farm is in excellent shape with ample room to accommodate all his stock during the winter season and with running water in every building. His residence is one of the: most conspicuous features of his premises, being one of the finest in this part of the state and provided with every convenience commonly found in the most modern homes. There also may be found an atmosphere of refinement and a degree of hospitality which is seldom equaled.

On February 7, 1877, Mr. Crittenden wedded Miss Ida E. Ford, daughter of Laban and Sarah (Pollock) Ford, her father being a prominent farmer of Ashland county, who passed away some years ago while her mother still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Crittenden have one daughter, Sarah A., who became the wife of Jay Ringle, who is associated with her father in farming. They have one daughter, Elizabeth. Mr. Crittenden and his family are members of the Congregational church of Ruggles township, in the affairs of which he is a leading factor. A republican in politics, he does all he can during campaigns to effect the success of his party, at the same time exerting considerable interest in local affairs. He favors public improvements and supports all movements aiming at the betterment of the community, the financial worth of which he has greatly enhanced by his industry and enterprise, and he is among the honorable and substantial citizens of the township.

Irvin C. Smith

Irvin C. Smith, engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock raising in Troy township, was born here October 10, 1863, his parents being Samuel and, Mary (Murray) Smith, both of whom reside on a farm where his father has all his days been engaged in agricultural pursuits.

Irvin C. Smith was reared amid the environment of agricultural life on his father's farm, where he became familiar with the various departments of the art of husbandry and also with stock breeding. During the short winter terms he attended the village schools where he obtained his education, remaining upon the home farm until he was united in marriage. He then pursued agriculture in Ruggles township for nine years and in the operation of an extensive farm was successful. At the expiration of that period he purchased his present excellent tract of land and here he has since been following this occupation. The fields he now cultivates are among the very best in this part of the county and Mr. Smith, being a man who takes pride in his premises and particularly in the art of husbandry, desiring to pursue his occupation upon the most advanced methods, has made every improvement by way of drainage and other accessories to make his farm one of the very best for the production of general crops and also for stock raising. His residence is of model architecture and equipped with every convenience requisite to make farm life easy. His barn and other outbuildings are also substantial, his premises throughout being in every particular suggestive of thrift and of the progressive spirit of the owner. Mr. Smith has made special study of soils so that he might be able to conserve their nutritive elements and he has been so successful in arranging the rotation of his crops and their adaptation to the soil that he has annually been able to derive, as a rule, the maximum yield per acre, his crops not only being exceptional in quantity but also in quality. He takes a considerable interest in stock raising, handling only thoroughbred cattle, sheep and hogs, and doing a remunerative buying and shipping business.

On March 6, 1892, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Smith, daughter of John and Rebecca (Fitterhoof) Smith. Her father, now deceased, was influential in public affairs. Her mother still survives in the enjoyment of a remarkable measure of health and strength. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have

In national and state politics Mr. Smith is a democrat but when it comes to county and local affairs he takes an independent stand, considering the man rather than the party to which he belongs and casting his vote for such candidates as in his judgment are best qualified to serve in the offices they seek. Being strong in public spirit, he is an agitator in improvements, particularly favoring all measures designed to secure better roads, a higher school system and finer public buildings and, through his efforts, much has been done in these directions. For eight years he has been a member of the Troy central district school board, of which he was president, and is now serving his fourth year as a member of the board of township trustees, which strongly testifies to his executive ability and his usefulness as a public official. He is affiliated with Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. O. O. F., in which he has passed all the chairs, being at present vice counsellor. He also belongs to the Junior Order of American Mechanics. While his business affairs command a great deal. of his attention, as do also the social organizations. to which he belongs, yet he does not forget his religious obligations, considering them first and foremost and he is a faithful adherent of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife is also a member, and for many years he has served efficiently as class leader of this organization, his wife also taking a profound and active interest in its Sunday school work. Mr. Smith, being a man of upright character, who has always exhibited that degree of industry and enterprise necessary to enhance the general welfare of the community, has ever been held in high respect by his neighbors and well deserves being numbered among the worthy and substantial citizens of the township.

David F. Brubaker

The name Brubaker is well known throughout this county, both in agricultural and financial circles, members of the family having lived here for upwards of a century. David Brubaker, grandfather of the subject of this review, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, to this county in 1832, and here settled down in the enjoyment of retired life. He had been twice united in marriage, having had eight sons by his first wife and two by his second. John Brubaker, who was the eldest son of the first marriage, came to this county in 1826, when he was in his thirty-fourth year, in company with his wife and family, and entered a farm located four and one-half miles south of the village of Ashland, the tract of land consisting of eighty acres, all of which was thickly covered with timber. He lived in a covered wagon until he had dressed logs with which to construct a cabin, this work requiring several weeks. He finally succeeded in clearing off the land and spent the remainder of his days here in pursuit of agriculture. He was born in 1792, in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where he wedded Miss Katherine Dissinger. He served in the war of 1812 and after locating here pursued general farming until 1845, during which year he sustained an injury which unfitted him for hard work, but fortunately, being a shoemaker by trade, he had recourse to that occupation by which to earn a living, and he continued it until he acquired sufficient means to enable him to live in retirement. His death occurred in the year 1869. Like all the pioneers of his day, he had but meager educational advantages, being possessed, however, of industry and perseverance, which were of greater worth in those days than the learning of the schools, and by faithful and patient application he succeeded in gaining a comfortable competence. He reared a family of five sons and three daughters, all of whom acquired a fair education in the district schools, among whom were: Joseph, who passed away in his fifty-eighth year; Henry, who was fifty-nine years of age when he departed this life; John, who lost his life while serving his country during the Civil war, his remains being interred in the Chattanooga cemetery; Katherine Brubaker Heckman; David F.; and Jacob. Henry was given the advantage of a higher education, having graduated from Oberlin, and beginning the practice of medicine in Mansfield, Ohio, he subsequently removed to Iowa and thence to Memphis, Tennessee, and when the Civil war broke out he located in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he became prominent in his profession.

David F. Brubaker was born here September 4, 1841, during his boyhood days working upon his father's farm and in the meantime pursuing his studies in the district school, and he remained under the parental roof until he was twenty years of age, when he repaired to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he remained for one year and upon returning home engaged in the dry goods business as clerk, serving in that capacity for two years, at the termination of which time he became associated with the grocery business with W. G. Heltman, with whom he remained for two years and then, in partnership with his brother Jacob, he entered the dry-goods business, in which he continued for thirty-five years. He subsequently severed his connection with the firm on account of his health and entered the real-estate business, which he is now following, at the same time having a number of investments in other enterprises. In all his ventures he has been successful owing to the fact that he possessed extraordinary busines ability and is naturally given to transacting affairs.

On September 2, 1869, Mr. Brubaker wedded Miss Mary L. Taylor, who was one of a family of six children who received their education in the Ilayesville Academy, and a daughter of Samuel Taylor, a pioneer of this county who spent his life in the manufacture of plows, threshing machines and other farm implements. Politically Mr. Brubaker supports the democratic party, and he holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. His life has been one of great usefulness to the community, which has felt the benefit of his industry and enter- prise, and being a man whose business relations have always been conducted on the basis of honesty he is considered one of the most reliable men as well as one of the most substantial in the business circles of the county.

Mr, And Mrs, Johnson Welch

Ephraim Welch and his wife, Jane (McAdoo) Welch, came to Ashland county from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1828 and took up the quarter section of land in the northern part of Orange township on which they resided until the death of Mr, Welch, In their family were the followimg named: James M., John, Johnson, Rankin, Catharine, and Mary Jame, all of whom reached adult age, were married and reared families.

Johnson Welch, whose name appears at the head of this sketch, was born December 15, 1831, and was reared to manhood under Greamstances very similar to those attending the lives of most of the pioneer boys of Ashland eounty. He was an expert hand at log rollings, at choppimg, swinging the scythe, or cradling, and when there was a log cabin to raise he was generally selected to carry one of the corners - a job which required considerable skillful chopping in order that the building be plumb and the logs properly fitted together. His education consisted of the learning which he was able to acquire at the country schools where only the common branches of learning were taught.

Emeline (Buchanan) Welch was born May 1, 1838, on what is mow known as the McDowell farm on the north line of Jackson township, Ashland county. Her father, John Buchanan, was a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and came of a family well known for their thrift and business imtegrity. By his industry and the good management of his numerous flocks of sheep he won success, and as his financial resources increased made investments im land, until ins holdings were extensive, His wife, Mrs. Rachel (Jackson) Buchanan, was a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, Mrs. Welch, who is still livimg, has vivid recollections of the privations incident to pioneer life experienced Guring her girlhood days. She attended school at what was known as No. 4 im Sullivan township, near the Elder Cressinger farm and her life up to the time of her marriage was spent in her native township.

Mr. and Mrs, Welch were married on the 29th of September, 1857, and began housekeeping on the farm now owned by Royal Welch, adjoining the present homestead, There were born to them: Engene B. Bllsworth G., Etta L., Frank L., Mollie, Herman B., and Royal J., all of whom are now living except Molhe, who became the wife of James M. Flnke and whose untimely death on the 2d of January, 1909, was mourned by all who knew her. Eogene married Malthe B. Pratt, of Hamilton county, Kansas. and they now reside in El Paso. Texas. They have living a daughter, Louise, and two sons. Paul and Benton while a daughter, Lucile, and an infant son are deceased. Ellsworth Welch married Bertha Porter, They lost an infant son and their Hivine children are Florence, Donald and Marshall, Etta Welch became the wife of the Rev. Andrew McCullough, of Coshocton county, Ohio. Frank Welch married Zetta

Wiler and their children are two sons, Harold and Lawrence, and three daughters, Lucile, Ruth and Irene. Mollie Welch married James M. Fluke and they had two sons, Eugene and John, and five daughters, Edna, Opal, Emeline, Mary and Bernice. Herman Welch married Mayme Laughery and they have one son, Leonard. Royal Welch married Elva Landis and they have one daughter, Vera.

Mr. and Mrs. Welch began their married life in a very primitive way. Their household furnishings consisted of two corded bedsteads, two feather beds, some bedding, half a dozen chairs, a scanty supply of. dishes, a table, an old stove and a few other necessary articles. The house was a log cabin of not very pretentious dimensions, the barn was a log structure with a clapboard roof held on by poles, while the doors were split and shaved and the few nails in them were hand forged. The indomitable purpose of Mr. and Mrs. Welch did not allow them to continue long amid such conditions, for owing to their thrift and economy they were soon able to build a splendid home which Mrs. Welch has since occupied and which continued his place of residence until he was called to his final rest. This home has always been known as one of culture and refinement and a place where friends were ever welcome. There are many who can testify to Mrs. Welch's hospitality and her success in the culinary art, and to her very high standing as a woman and mother.

Mr. Welch never aspired to public office nor to membership in any order and was not a member of any church, although a man of deep moral principles and broad religious convictions. His ambition was to discharge his duties in life in the fullest possible sense. His business affairs were carefully conducted. He was one of the first and most successful breeders of fine wool sheep in Ashland county and at the time of his death, which occurred October 27, 1886, was possessed of a number of valuable farms on which grazed several hundred sheep of his breeding. His influence on the wool-growing interests of the county was very marked and is notably felt to this day. He was a strong factor in the introductiqn and development of Merino and later of Delaine sheep in this section of the state. As the head of a family, as the builder of a home, as a successful farmer and stockman, as.a citizen, and as a man of integrity and honest business principles he was second to none in the community and time in which he lived.

Samuel Aber

An excellent farm on section 22, Lake township, pays tribute to the care and labor of Samuel Aber, who works diligently and persistently year after year for the further development and improvement of his land, which now constitutes one of the desirable farms of the county. He is a citizen of sterling worth, held in high regard throughout the community in which he makes his home. His birth occurred January 2, 1845, about three miles north of his present farm in Lake township, Ashland county, on the Wayne county line. In fact the were William and Eleanor (Dirrim) Aber, the former born in Pennsylvania, October 14, 1814, while the mother's birth occurred in Carroll county, Ohio, February 1, 1823. William Aber accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Carroll county when five years of age, and was there reared to manhood. On the 8th of June, 1838, he wedded Eleanor Dirrim and in the spring of 1843 they removed to Lake township, Ashland county, settling in the midst of the green woods on a tract of land of two hundred and forty acres on which not a tree had been cut nor a furrow turned. Upon this place the father spent his remaining days, cleared away the timber, prepared the fields for cultivation, and in course of time gathered rich and abundant harvests. He died February 24, 1892, after which his widow lived with her children until her demise, December 7, 1907, spending much of her time with her son Dan, in Ashland. They reared a family of nine sons and one daughter: David, who served for three years as a member of the Highty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, a ball passing through his body, after which he was in the invalid corps until the close of hostilities, is now a resident of Missouri. Samuel is the next of the family. William resides in Loudonville. John is a resident of Funk, Ohio. Hannah is the deceased wife of Louis N. P. Emerick. Isaac is living in Missouri. James died at the age-of nineteen years. Joseph and Daniel are twins and the former resides on the home farm while the latter is living in Ashland, Ohio. Clinton, the youngest of the family, is now pastor of a Christian church in Indiana.

Samuel Aber spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the fields, enjoying the sports common to the youths of the period, and mastering the branches of learning taught in the public schools. He continued with his parents until his marriage, and then came to his present home in 1866. Here he secured the ownership of eighty acres of the original one hundred and sixty acres which his father had owned on section 22, Lake township. He also bought forty-three acres of the adjoining Metcalf farm and fifteen acres of the Moore farm, so that he now has a total of one hundred and thirty-eight acres on Round lake, pleasantly situated one and a half miles south of McZena. It is a well improved property on which are two sets of good buildings which were erected by Mr. Aber. His place is known as the Lakeview Farm and many people come to the lake in summer to enjoy the refreshing shade furnished by the fine groves and the cool water. This is a picturesque district in which nature has offered many attractions. Aside from his farming interests Mr. Aber is a factor in the Washington Township Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company. In his political views Mr. Aber is an independent democrat. He has held several school and road offices but does not seek nor desire political preferment, although he is loyal to the party and has never missed a general election since he became a voter. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Lakeville, in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested. He is now serving as one of the trustees of the church and is superintendent of the Sunday school and he was formerly an active member of the grange.

It was on the 6th of March, 1866, that Mr. Aber was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Popham, who was born in Culpeper county, Virginia, March

11, 1839. When five years of age she went to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, with her parents, George and Mary Ann (Bean) Popham, who were natives of Virginia and spent their last days in Tuscarawas county. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Aber has been blessed with nine children: Anna, who died in infancy ; Allen, who died at the age of twenty-one years;,Mary Eleanor, who died when but six months old; Lee, who passed away in his fifth year; Lelah, the wife of H. J. Raubinolt, of Ashland ; Elnora, the wife of Harmon Shearer, of Lake township ; Flora, who is the widow of Newton E. Dilyard, and resides on her father's farm ;. Ellis, who married Orphie Butler and operates the old homestead; and Marion D., who wedded Emma Boneburger and lives in Akron, Ohio. Since their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Aber have continuously resided upon the farm which is now their home and throughout the community they have a large circle of warm friends who esteem them highly for their genuine personal worth.

James W. Shaw

James W. Shaw, a prominent undertaker of Savannah, who has been associated with a number of other enterprises here, was born in this county February 9, 1866, and descends from a family, the members of which were among the early pioneers of Ashland county. His great-grandfather, William Shaw, came here from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, when his son Guian, the grandfather of the subject of this review, was a mere child. He settled in this locality, where he became influential in local affairs, having been one of the prosperous and substantial agriculturists of the township. His father, John Shaw, Sr., was united in marriage to Ann Lindsay and was also a prominent husbandman of this section. His death occurred July 26, 1907, while his wife still survives. In their family were two sons, James W. and Robert N., the latter being engaged in the drug and book business in the village of Savannah.

James W. Shaw spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm where he became familiar with the various departments of agriculture, during the winter months acquiring his preliminary education in the district schools, subsequently taking a course of study in Savannah Academy. He remained upon the home place until he was united in marriage, after which he followed the occupation of farming in Clear Creek township until 1895, when he removed to the village of Savannah where he engaged in the drug and book business in partnership with his brother, Robert N., the firm title being Shaw Brothers. At the same time he became individually interested in the undertaking enterprise. The firm of Shaw Brothers continued until October, 1907, when James W. Shaw sold out his interests to his brother, thereby retiring from the partnership. He has since devoted his attention to the undertaking business, at the same time superintending the various departments of his farm work. He is a graduate of the Clark School of Embalming at Cincinnati, Ohio, and is a licensed embalmer, having an establishment excellently equipped for his enterprise, and he has become so popular that his services are required throughout a wide range of

On October 4, 1888, Mr. Shaw wedded Miss Mary L. Gibson, daughter of John and Catherine (Grissinger) Gibson,. her father a prominent agriculturist of this county. This union has been blessed by one daughter, Edna Lois.

Mr. Shaw a republican in politics is one of the most progressive men in the village and particularly an ardent advocate of good roads and a first class school system. He has been sought to fill several important local positions, among them being that of a member of the village council, to which body he has belonged for several years. He is also a member of the school board and at present is serving his third term as township treasurer. In educational matters his influence is deeply felt and he is secretary of the board of trustees of Savannah Academy. In addition to belonging to the Ohio Funeral Directors Association he also is a member of Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. O. O. F., and of Ashland Camp. Being as deeply interested in religious affairs as in those pertaining to polities and business, he is a member of the Presbyterian church, to which his family also belong, and is active in the various departments of church work, particularly that of the Sunday school. Mr. Shaw is one of the county's progressive, intelligent and substantial citizens, noted for his earnestness and honesty. At intervals he likes to withdraw from the business world for recreation, and finds pleasure in fishing and hunting, and particularly in driving a good horse.

Peter M. Redding

Peter M. Redding, prominent in the financial and industrial circles of the city of Ashland, was born in Ashland county, December 21, 1843, a son of Philip and Elizabeth (Dinges) Redding, the father a native of Germany, where his birth occurred in 1811, and his mother, of the same country, born in 1814. United in marriage there in 1837, during that year they came to the United States, locating in Ashland county, where he followed his trade of carpentering until he departed this life in 1897, his wife, who survived him by two years, entering into rest in 1899. They reared the following children: Peter M.; Philip, whose birth occurred here in 1845; Magdalene; Redding Houserman, born here in 1851; George, born here in 1853; and William, whose birth occurred here in 1858.

Upon acquiring his education in the common schools of this city, Peter M. Redding was apprenticed to a carpenter and joiner, and upon completing his trade continued as a journeyman. Subsequently he engaged in the contract business, in which he has been very successful, many of the foremost buildings of this place standing as monuments of his skill and workmanship, among them being the opera house, Ashland College, the Myers plant, the residences of F. E. and P. A. Myers, and also the dwelling house of S. Grabill. Moreover he constructed the Presbyterian church building, the edifices oceupied by the Disciples of Christ and the United Brethren, and in addition many of the older buildings which now stand as landmarks in the city. In this business he actively engaged until 1889. After the death of Mr. Kagey he represented the widow's interest until 1907, when her son, Herbert B. Kagey, became affiliated with the firm and later David Shearer, and the enterprise is now being conducted under the name of Shearer, Kagey & Company, this firm being one of the most substantial financially in this part of the state.

In August, 1862, Mr. Redding enlisted in Company A, McLaughlin's Squadron Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, which was comprised of two hunderd men, the governor of the state having granted Major McLaughlin the privilege of enlisting two companies, and at Mansfield, the squadron joined Sherman's brigade, which was made up of the Sixty-fourth and Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and the Sixth Ohio Volunteer Battery, the brigade having been organized by Senator John Sherman in 1861. During that and the following year, they saw considerable service scouting in eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. In 1863, Mr. Redding was with Burnside at the siege of Knoxville, and in 1864 with Sherman from Kenesaw Mountain throughout the Atlanta Campaign, later serving with Kilpatrick's Cavalry on Sherman's march to the sea. On March 1, 1865, Mr. Redding was captured and lodged in the prison at Salisbury, North Carolina, later being transferred to Danville, Virginia, and from there to Libby prison, Richmond, where he remained until April 2, 1865, one day before the fall of that city, and he was among the last to leave the old tobacco warehouse that was used for prison purposes. He received an honorable discharge at Camp Chase, Ohio, June 20, 1865.

Mr. Redding's marriage with Miss Melinda Roland a daughter of Henry and Susan (Brubaker) Roland, was solemnized January 9, 1866, and to them were born five children: Vernon, born in October, 1866; Elizabeth E. Gongroer, born in 1870; Henry Newton, whose birth occurred in October, 1876; Frank, a soldier of the Cuban war, born in 1879, who departed this life at the Bellevue Hospital, New York, in 1898, shortly after returning from the expedition; and Lester, whose birth occurred in 1882. All the children have been graduated from the Ashiand high school. A democrat in politics, Mr. Redding has always been a stanch adherent of the principles of his party and loyal to its candidates. He was a member of the council of Ashland when the first sewer was put in and Union street opened. He attends divine worship at the Methodist Episcopal church and his upright walk and honesty, together with his industry and enterprise, have justly won him the reputation of being among the city's worthy and substantial business men.

Marion Daniel Huffman

The agricultural interests of Lake township find a worthy representative in Marion Daniel Huffman, who lives on section 23. His farm comprises one hundred and four acres of land that extends across the line into Washington township, Hclmes county. It is an attractively situated property bordering on Long lake and constitutes one of the pleasing features of the locality by reason of the care and cultivation bestowed upon it. Mr. Huffman was born in Washington township, Holmes county, January 31, 1861, his parents being

Henry and Barbara (Heffelfinger) Huffman, who were also natives of the same township, the former born June 1, 1838, and the latter on the 16th of February, 1838. Both the paternal and maternal grandparents of Mr. Huffman were natives of Alsace, France. His father's parents were Henry and Eva (Miller) Huffman, while his mother was a daughter of Martin and Barbara (Oligher) Heffelfinger. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Huffman spent their last days in Loudonville where the father died March 26, 1909, and the mother passed away on the 14th of March, 1907. Their family numbered eight children as follows: Martin J., a resident of Loudonville; Marion D.; Margaret, the wife of John Beary, of Washington township, Holmes county; Henry G., who is living in the same township; Emanuel E., of the same locality; Alice B., the wife of Fred Beck, of Green township, this county; and Fred W., and Charles A., twins, residing in Loudonville.

The public schools afforded Marion D. Huffman his educational privileges nor was his training at farm labor meager. From an early age he assisted his father in the work of the fields, remaining upon the home farm in his native township until his marriage. He then removed to Green township, Ashland county, in 1887, living there for two years, after which he took up his present abode upon his farm in Lake township. 'This place comprises one hundred and four acres of rich and productive land, most of which lies in Lake township, although twenty-two acres are across the line in the township of his nativity. Long lake, a beautiful little body of water, forms an attractive feature of his place and affords good fishing. Mr: Huffman devotes his time and energies to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to climatic conditions here and also to the raising of stock and both branches of his business are proving sources of profitable income. For ten years he was the secretary of the Washington Township Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company, and during that time the business of the company was increased from two to seven million dollars. He is widely recognized as an enterprising business man whose force of character, ready adaptability and unfaltering determination are the salient features in his success.

In 1887 Mr. Huffman was married to Miss Alice M. Moats, who was born March 23, 1863, on the farm which is still her place of residence. It was also the birthplace of her father, Jacob Moats, whose natal day was May 8, 1827, and whose life record covered the intervening years to April, 1881. . He was a son of John and Elizabeth (Bittinger) Moats, natives of Pennsylvania, who, on coming to Ohio in 1829, entered land from the government during the Jackson administration, the original deed signed by the president being now in possession of Mr. Huffman. The little pioneer cabin erected by John Moats is still standing as one of the landmarks of this part of the county and a mute witness of the transformation that has been wrought as the county has emerged from pioneer conditions and taken on all of the evidences of a modern civilization. Both John and Elizabeth Moats spent the remainder of their lives upon this farm, being closely identified with the early development and progress of this part of the county. They had three children: Jacob, the father of Mrs. Huffman; Mrs. Christina Molter and Mrs. Susanna Eiman. Jacob Moats was reared on the old homestead place which his father had secured from the government and gave his entire life to general agricultural pursuits. His wife, who was born in Washington township, Holmes county, December 9, 1837, was a daughter of Louis and Magdalena (Sprang) Kelser, who were natives of Alsace, France. The mother of Mrs. Huffman still survives and was married a second time in 1889, being now the widow of Solomon Wolf. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Moats were born five children: William A., living in Indiana; John L., who died in Iowa; Anna L., the wife of John Sillix, of Kansas City, Kansas; Martha Jane the wife of Howard Baney, of Wayne county; and Mrs. Huffman. The last named by her marriage has become the mother of two children: Harry G. and Grace L., aged respectively nineteen and eleven years and both still at home.

In community affairs Mr. Huffman has always taken a deep and active interest. He gives his political allegiance to the democracy and for nine years filled the office of justice of the peace in Lake township, his decisions being strictly fair and impartial for they were based upon the law and equity of the case. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Newkirk and are loyal to its teachings and its purposes. Their lives have ever been honorable and upright, winning for them the merited confidence and esteem of all who know them. They have always lived in this locality and their life history is, therefore, an open book to their many friends and acquaintances.

William O. Whitmarsh

William O. Whitmarsh, who for a number of years conducted a thriving mercantile business in Savannah, but is now living retired in the village, was born in this vicinty November 1, 1857, a son of Uriah and Elizabeth (Masters) Whitmarsh. The father departed this life when his son William O. was but three years of age, while his mother, who still survives, is residing in this city.