Ashland City (part 46 of 57)

At an early age William O. Whitmarsh found employment among the farmers of this locality and during the winter seasons obtained his preliminary education in the district schools, while later he pursued a course of study at Savannah Academy. When twenty-one years of age, preferring a business life rather than one of husbandry, he entered the employ of John R. Bailey, a general merchant of this city, for whom he acted in the capacity of clerk for several years, in the meantime manifesting considerable business ability and acquiring a thorough knowledge of the various departments of the enterprise. In partnership with John McWilliams he established the firm of Whitmarsh & MeWilliams, doing a general merchandise business and in this connection he remained for several years when Mr. McWilliams severed his connection and moved to Colorado. Mr. Whitmarsh conducted the enterprise alone until February 1, 1909, when he disposed of his interests to Vinton E. Rudy and is now practically living in retirement. During his active business career, through his enterprise and good judgment, he acquired an extensive patronage and built up a concern which stands high in the commercial circles of the city. Since withdrawing from the mercantile world he has not become altogether inactive but devotes much of his time to superintending his farm which is located nearby and therefore easy of access and, in caring for its various departments, he finds both recreation and pleasure.

On June 26, 1884, Mr. Whitmarsh wedded Miss Sarah J. Carothers, daughter of David and Amanda (Murphy) Carothers, natives of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. They have two children: David C., who is a student in the Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Princeton, New Jersey ; and Elizabeth, who is pursuing her studies at the Savannah Academy. Politically Mr. Whitmarsh is a republican, active in the affairs of his party and has frequently been a member of the republican county committee and a delegate to the county, district and state conventions. In local affairs he favors public improvements, is always aggressive in advocating plans for beautifying the city and is a strong advocate of fine school buildings and well kept thoroughfares. He has served efficiently as township treasurer and clerk, also as village treasurer and was a member of the Savannah council for a number of years. At present he is a member of the board of education and also of the board of trustees of the Savannah Academy. With the members of his family he attends the Presbyterian church, of which he is treasurer, his zealous Christian spirit making him active in religious affairs, and as superintendent of the Sunday school he is a power for good in inculcating into the youth the principles of Christianity so essential to enable one to live a moral and upright life. Sunday school work is his specialty and in this department he is active throughout the entire county and has been treasurer of the County Sunday School Association for the past four years. His wife is also an energetic church worker and being a refined and cultured woman exerts a telling influence in church circles. Mr. Whitmarsh is a man whose endeavors for the betterment of the community are of the highest worth and he is not only held in high esteem as a business man but also as a moral and spiritual force throughout the community.

Charles T. Alleman

Fate has ever accorded success to tireless energy intelligently directed. It has been along the lines of well defined labor that Charles T. Alleman has won his prosperity, making him one of the representative merchants of Jeromeville. He was here born on the 7th of February, 1846, and has ever made his home in this town. Moreover he is the oldest living resident of Jeromeville. His parents were Herman and Katharine (Ingmand) Alleman. The father, who was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, March 12, 1813, spent his last days in Jeromeville, where he passed away April 14, 1878. Twice he enlisted for service in the Civil war and on the 6th of December, 1861, he was appointed second lieutenant of Company B, McLaughlin's squadron of cavalry. He served with that command for a year, at the end of which time he resigned but after ten days spent at home he reenlisted on the 14th of October, 1862, and was appointed sergeant of Company H, Tenth Regiment of Ohio Cavalry, with which he served for two years, being honorably discharged October 7, 1864, from the general hospital, where he had been for some time as the result of an injury sustained by a fall from a horse. He had come to Ohio in his childhood days with his parents, the family home being established near Madisonburg. He was a chairmaker by trade and after his marriage most of his active life was spent in Jeromeville, where he conducted business as a chairmaker and undertaker. At that day all caskets were made by hand and he did much work in that. direction. He was also justice of the peace here for several years and likewise served as mayor. His political allegiance was given to the democracy. He was twice married and by the first union had two daughters: Mary, who became the wife of Absalom Martin, but both are now deceased; and Sarah Jane, the wife of Robert King, a resident of Kent, Ohio. After the death of his first wife the father married Katharine Ingmand, who was born January 9, 1818, and died May 6, 1877. Her entire life was spent in this locality, her people coming here before the Indians left. There were five children of the second marriage: Elizabeth Adelaide, who died unmarried; Charles T.; Martha, the wife of Ezekiel Lybarger, a resident of Kendallville, Indiana; Emma, the deceased wife of Asa Lybarger; and Edmund I., of Jeromeville, Ohio.

Charles T. Alleman largely devoted his time to the acquirement of an education until seventeen years of age, when he enlisted in response to the country's eall for troops. Constrained by a spirit of patriotism, he joined Company A of the Ninety-sixth Battalion of the Ohio National Guard on the 18th of August, 1863, for a period of five years. He was mustered into the United States army in May, 1864, for one hundred days' service and was discharged therefrom on the 10th of September, 1864. During that period the regiment was attached to the Army of the Potomac under General Butler and Mr. Alleman participated in the battle of Petersburg and minor engagements. When the war was over he returned home and worked with his father at the cabinetmaker's trade and also in the furniture and undertaking business. After the death of his father he conducted the furniture and undertaking business on his own account for many years. He was about forty-five years of age when he established a general store, adding a shoe department, dry goods, notions and groceries. In this enterprise he met with success, securing a large and profitable trade and later he admitted his son, George Edgar, to a partnership under the firm style of C. T. and G. E. Alleman. Mr. Alleman of this review owns the block in which they carry on business and also two dwellings on the same block. He is a wide-awake, enterprising business man,, carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. As the years have gone by his capable management and keen discernment have been manifest in the excellent results which have attended his labors. Moreover he is known as a most reliable business man, winning success through persistent, earnest and well directed effort.

On the 7th of December, 1867, Mr. Alleman was united in marriage to Miss Rose Yanders, who was born November 21, 1851, at Miami, Ohio, a daughter of George and Margaret Yanders, who were natives of Germany. Her father, who was born July 20, 1820, died on the 10th of March, 1897. The mother, whose birth occurred in October, 1809, passed away April 2, 1895. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Alleman have been born six children: George Edgar, who wedded Miss Bertha Pearl Hines and is associated with his father in business ; Bertha M., the wife of W. D. Funk, a resident of Funk, Wayne county; Minnie G., who passed away at the age of thirteen years; Margaret E., who died when fourteen years of age; Rena C., the wife of Clarence Carl, a hardware merchant of Jeromeville; and Lucy B., who is the wife of Walter C. Plank, of Jeromeville, Ohio.

In his political views Mr. Alleman is a stalwart democrat, having stanchly supported the party since age first conferred upon him the right of franchise. He was justice of the peace in his township and was mayor of the village for several years, giving a public-spirited administration. His public service was characterized by the same stalwart qualities which have been manifest in his business life and therefore he won the commendation and approval of his fellow townsmen. He formerly held membership in the Grand Army post here until it was disbanded because of lack of members and he has long been identified with the Methodist Episcopal church, which finds in him a stalwart supporter. His life has ever been in conformity with its teachings, winning for him the high regard of his fellowmen.

Charles J. Woner

Charles J. Woner is assistant postmaster of Ashland, a position of considerable responsibility, owing to the fact that this is a first-class office and receives and dispatches more mail than any other town of its size in the United States. He was born April 7, 1867, in Canaan, Ohio, a son of J. D. and Rebecca (Irvin) Woner, who were natives of Wayne county, Ohio, and were married in 1865. The father learned the harness-maker's trade in early life and continued to follow it throughout his remaining days. In 1873 he purchased a farm of sixty acres and while engaged in agricultural pursuits he also continued to manufacture harness. His last days were spent upon the farm, where he passed away in 1873, while his wife died in 1895. Their family numbered three children: Charles J.; Ora E., who was born July 7, 1869; and George J., born June 13, 1871. At the time of the Civil war Mr. Woner had responded to the country's call for aid, enlisting in 1861 as a member of the One Hundred and Third Regiment of Ohio Infantry. He was on duty for three years and six months and made an excellent record by his loyal support of the old flag in the cause it represented.

Charles J. Woner pursued his education in the public schools but when a lad of only thirteen years began providing for his own support by farm labor. He was thus employed until twenty-two years of age, when he established a shorthand school, having previously studied stenography. He conducted this in 1889 and 1890, when he sold out to Mr. Bixler, since which time the school has become widely known. In the latter year Mr. Woner entered the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Company at Cleveland as a stenographer, remaining there for ten months, after which he became private secretary to Thomas W. Dewitt, general superintendent of the Wells Fargo Express Company at Cleveland. Later he was made agent for the same company at Ashland in 1893 and continued to acceptably fill that position for eleven years, or until 1904, when he resigned and became a representative of the J. A. Black Stock Food Company. In 1906 he was appointed assistant postmaster of Ashland and has since occupied this position. He is a capable official, reliable and trustworthy, systematic and accurate.

In his political views Mr. Woner has always been a stalwart republican and ever a stanch supporter of the gold standard. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias and his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church. He was married May 23, 1893, to Miss Mary J. Downing, of Wooster, Ohio, a daughter of Paxton and Elizabeth Downing. Their only child, Charles, died at the age of four years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Woner are well known in Ashland where they have many warm friends who hold them in high regard because of their many substantial and commendable traits of character.

Upton Andress

Upton Andress, an attorney at law practicing in Hayesville, was born in Montgomery township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 12th of September, 1855, and has spent his entire life, covering fifty-four years, within the borders of the county. His parents were Samuel D. and Sarah (Hildebrant) Andress, who were also natives of Ashland county, where they spent their entire lives as farming people. The father died in 1902 at the age of seventy-six years, while the mother passed away in 1880 at the age of forty-four years. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Henry and Mary (Fry) Andress, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of Pennsylvania. They were married in this county and for many years Henry Andress engaged in business as a teamster and hotel keeper at Jeromesville. At length he purchased a farm in Montgomery township and later sold that property and bought the farm which is now in possession of Upton Andress: There both he and his wife spent their remaining days. They reared a family of five sons and five daughters, including Samuel D. Andress, who married Miss Sarah Hildebrant, a daughter of Peter Hildebrant, who was a native of Pennsylvania and one of the early settlers of Ashland county, locating two miles north of Hayesville. He and his wife both died on a farm about three miles northeast of Hayesville. Their family numbered six sons and six daughters. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Samuel D. Andress were born eight children: Lilly L., the wife of Henry Stoom of Ashland; Upton; Mary C., the wife of John A. Wharton, living three miles west of Ashland; Dillman, a resident of Hayesville; Mrs. Anna L. Reading, the wife of C. H. Reading, of Akron, Ohio; B. F., living in Hayesville; Ella D., the wife of John H. Teeple, of Akron; and H. E., who was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School with the class of 1895 and is now an attorney of Akron.

Upton Andress remained upon the home farm with his parents until sixteen years of age, when, thinking to find other pursuits more congenial, he began learning the cabinet-maker's trade, at which he worked for about eight years, but his ambition pointed to a professional career and he began reading law with David Fox and at once began practice. In this he has been very successful, having intrusted to him the largest amount of legal business of any man in Ashland county not admitted to the bar. He now has a good practice but never took the examination. He has practiced continuously in Hayesville since 1882 where he is also known as a general collector and successful insurance agent. He is likewise a stockholder in the Ashland Banking & Savings Company which he aided in organizing. He also owns the old Andress homestead of one hundred and fifty-six acres a mile northeast of the town and which was once the property of his grandfather, Henry Andress.

On the 12th of April, 1888, Mr. Andress was married to Miss Myrtle E. Smalley, a native of this county, and a daughter of Methias Smalley, a wealthy farmer of Orange township. Her death occurred in 1902 and on the 28th of June, 1905, Mr. Andress wedded Millicent Coe, a native of Ashland county and a daughter of S. M. and Maria Coe. They have one son, Samuel Coe.

Mr. Andress has been called to settle many estates and altogether has been a most successful as well as most reliable man. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and also to the Presbyterian church. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have frequently called him to office. For twelve years he served as mayor of Hayesville, being elected three terms without opposition, a compliment that has been paid to no other man. His administration was characterized by a prompt and businesslike discharge of the duties of the office, together with the support of regulative and progressive measures which have been of the utmost value to the city. In 1905 he was chairman of the congressional convention at Mansfield and has been a delegate to many state conventions, while in 1904 he was a delegate to the national democratic convention at St. Louis which nominated Parker. His words carry weight in the councils of his party and he is recognized as one of the influential representatives of democracy in this part of the state.

Frank William Freer

Frank William Freer is largely identified with the commercial and financial interests of Ashland as a member of the firm of Freer Brothers, leading clothiers of this city, the firm being of thirty-five years standing during which time it has acquired a reputation in this particular line of business which has obtained throughout the country. He was born in Ashland March 5, 1855, a son of Randolph and Harriet A. (Smith) Freer, his father being a native of Ashtabula county. There he was reared and when still a young man, about the year 1849 or 1850, came to the city of Ashland, where he engaged in the hardware business. With this enterprise he was identified something over seven years when, desiring a broader commercial field in which to exercise his ability and gratify his ambitions, he disposed of the hardware business which he had established and began to deal in wool and grain, in which he met with success. After a few years his business had become so prosperous that he built a commodious elevator and managed the enterprise with such skill and ability as to enable him to amass a considerable fortune. Finally he disposed of his interests and became identified with the First National Bank of this city shortly after the organization of that institution, and for several years officiated on the board of directors. In 1873, in partnership with a brother, Jonas, he organized the Farmers Bank of this city, of which he became president, the institution being one of the best known and most substantial in the state. In 1868, while in the midst of the pressure of his business affairs, Mr. Freer sought a season of recreation on one of his farms, but while there met with the misfortune of having one of his limbs amputated by a mowing machine, the injury resulting in a nervous shock which finally, in 1883, caused him to be stricken with paralysis. He then was compelled to withdraw from active life, upon which he transferred his banking interests to his sons. Aside from his excellent business career as a banker and promoter of commercial enterprises he was also prominent in local politics and for several years was a member of the city council, being recognized as foremost among the leaders in the city's advancement. Politically he was a stanch republican and an ardent advocate of party principles, never an office seeker, preferring to live within the retirement of private life. It was only through his desire to become more efficient in adding to the city's progress that he consented to serve as a member of the council. As greatly interested in religious matters as in business, he was a member of the Presbyterian church, in which organization he was for many years a deacon. After a long and highly useful career death terminated his activities on July 21, 1884.

Frank William Freer was reared under the parental roof, acquiring his education in the Ashland schools and also in the college of this city, and subsequently pursuing a commercial course of study at Iron City College, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated. Returning to Ashland in 1874, two years later he was established in the clothing business with his brother, Charles R., by his father, the firm being known as Freer & Sons, under which name the business has been conducted for the past thirty-five years. However, the enterprise is of far longer standing in this city, having been originally operated by Wiley, McCauley & Jones, from whom it was purchased by the elder Mr. Freer. Since taking hold of the enterprise the Freer Brothers have greatly added to its efficiency and volume of trade, and at present they hold the reputation of being the leading clothiers in this section of the country, the garments of their manufacture being known for style and workmanship throughout the country. Mr. Freer and his brothers, Charles and George, are still identified with the Farmers Bank as stockholders and directors, while George is cashier of the institution.

In 1879 Mr. Freer wedded Miss Flora G. Servis, of Canfield, Mahoning county, Ohio, to which union has been born one daughter, Minnie Louise, the wife of Roscoe 8. Woodyard, of La Grange, Illinois. Mrs. Freer departed this life August 8, 1883, and Mr. Freer was united in marriage J uly 29, 1890, to Miss Annie Secor, of Manistee, Michigan, by whom he has had three children: Ralph D., who attends the Ashland high school; Frank Secor; and Harriet. Mr. Freer is well known for his forwardness in advocating measures for the advance ment of the city's interests, and being a public-spirited man who desires th very best for the municipality in which he resides he is an influential member ot the Commercial Club of Ashland, and also of the Board of Trade. Politically, he is a republican but has always declined to permit his name to be proposed for public preferment, being content with casting his vote and using his influence toward the election of the candidates of his party. Together with the members of his family he attends the Presbyterian church, his relations with this body being greatly to its benefit. A man of excellent character, Mr. Freer is known throughout the county as a representative citizen and substantial business man.

Albert Butler

Albert Butler, who devoted his early life to the carpenter's trade but for many years has followed farming, now owns and cultivates one hundred acres of land on section 23, Lake township, and in his work displays the spirit of enterprise and determination that is leading him steadily onward to the goal of success. He was born April 3, 1852, in Holmes county, Ohio, a son of James and Mary (Ulrich) Butler, who were natives of Franklin county, Pennsylvania, where they were reared and married. They arrived in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1842, and spent their remaining days there. The father was married twice and had ten children bv his first union and eight by his second marriage. The father passed away in 1880 at the age of eighty years and his wife died in 1872. when fifty-six years of age.

Albert Butler spent the first fifteen vears of his life under the parental roof and then came to the neighborhood in which he is now living. Here he began earning his own livelihood. working by the month. He turned his attention to the carpenter's trade which he followed for several vears but it was his ambition to own a farm and he very carefully saved his earnings until his capital was sufficient to enable him to make the purchase of a tract of land. He has a farm of one hundred acres on section 23, Lake township, cornering also upon Holmes and Wayne counties. It was the last traet of land to be entered in this vicimty. It borders the State road leading from Cleveland to Columbus and is advantageously situated while the soil is rich and productive. The old Colonel Crawford trail also crosses this farm and the place has many historic associations. The land was entered from the government by George Wolf. the father-in-law of Mr. Butler, who- now has in his possession the original deed which was signed by President Jackson. Upon the place today are substantial buildings and all modern improvements, with good machinery, well kept fences and ample shelter for grain and stock. Mr. Butler annually harvests good crops for he pays much attention to the condition of the soil and carries on the work of plowing. planting and harvesting in the most approved modern methods. ;

In 1879 Mr. Butler was united in marriage to Miss Rosanna Wolf, who was born on the present farm August 14, 1845, and has always made her home here. She is a daughter of George and Nancy (Gurwell) Wolf, the former born in Pennsylvania, December 17, 1795, and the latter'in Maryland, December 12, 1804. Mrs. Wolf came to Ohio with her parents, the family residence being established in Holmes county. Mr. Wolf also made his way to this state in childhood days in company with his parents who located in Ashland county. The marriage of George Wolf and Nancy Gurwell was celebrated on the 30th of December, 1824, and they spent their remaining days on the farm which is now the home of Mr. and Mrs. Butler, his death occurring June 6, 1864, while his wife passed away May 4, 1889. The family numbered ten children: Solomon, deceased ; Eliza, who died at the age of fourteen years; Jacob, who has passed away; William G., a resident of Seneca, Michigan; Mrs. Jemima Miller, deceased; Martin, who died in childhood; George of Montana; Helen, who departed this life in childhood; Mrs. Rachel Offineer, of Iowa; and Mrs. Butler. All were born and reared on the farm which is now occupied by our subject and his wife.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Butler has been blessed with four children: Orpha M., now the wife of Ellis Aber, of Lake township; Harvey J., living in Wayne county; Emile L.,at home; and Kate, the wife of Byron Metcalf, of Wayne county, Ohio. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Lakeville and reared their children in that faith. All of the family are now earnest supporters of the church and of all those measures and movements which are deemed essential in good citizenship. Mr. Butler votes independently, considering the capabilities of the candidate rather than his party affiliations. A life of intense and well directed activity has led Mr. Butler to his present position among the substantial residents of this part of the state. Starting out in life on his own account, empty-handed, when fifteen years of age he has since been dependent entirely upon his own resources and his unremitting industry and careful management have made him one of the representative farmers of the community, enjoying success which is the direct reward of earnest labor.

J. Leo Hartman

J. Leo Hartman, one of the most successful educators in the county, now in charge of the Savannah schools which he has brought to a high state of perfection, was born in Orange township, August 27, 1876, a son of Levi and Sarah (Fast) Hartman. His parents are still surviving, his father being one of the prominent and progressive agriculturists of that township. Hig mother, formerly Miss Sarah Fast, is a representative of a very old and influential family, the Fasts having been among the very early settlers of this county. His father was a teacher in the common schools for a period of twelve years, at the same time devoting the summer months to farming, to which he finally gave his entire attention. He is now numbered among the most extensive stock buyers

Upon his father's farm J. Leo Hartman was reared, acquiring his preliminary education in the district schools and later pursuing a course of study in Savannah Academy. He completed his education at Wooster University, and in 1896 he began to teach school, being then but twenty years of age. Soon his ability became known and he was numbered among the efficient teachers of the county. For a period of three years his labors were confined to the district schools but afterward he became a teacher in the graded schools of Nankin, where he taught for three years and then spent three years in the schools at Polk, during which period he was instrumental in organizing the high school, which was a much needed and highly appreciated institution. In 1905 Mr. Hartman came to Savannah to take charge of the school system here and his work has been of such a high character and so beneficial to the entire school system that he has since been retained here continuously. Although he has gained the reputation of being one of the most efficient preceptors in the county he has by no means given up his desire for a still higher education and while he pursues his studies privately he also attends the summer normal school that he may keep abreast with the advanced ideas and methods pertaining to his vocation and make himself of still greater use in his chosen calling. Mr. Hartman holds a teacher's life certificate and for two years was president of the Ashland County Teachers Association, while at present he is secretary of the Ashland County branch of the Ohio Teachers Reading Circle.

Political matters command much of the attention of Mr..Hartman, who is a stanch supporter of the republican party, and at one time he served as a member of the republican county central committee. In 1908 he was nominated on the republican ticket for the county clerkship, but the district being largely democratic he was defeated although he made a splendid showing at the polls. He is among the progressive young men of the county and is always found favoring such measures as will in any way tend toward community advancement while as a church worker he is also held in high repute, being a member of the Methodist Episcopal. church and superintendent of the Sunday school, while at the same time he takes an active part in all affairs pertaining to various departments of the denomination. His fraternal relations are confined to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. Well known throughout the community in connection with political affairs and in whatever might advance the moral interests of the people, he is particularly well known as an educator, his ability in this line being widely recognized so that he is accounted among the strong men who are today handling the affairs of the school system of the county.

James E. Covert

One of the beautiful country homes of the southeastern part of Ashland county is that owned and ocupied by James BE. Covert, who in 1882 erected a fine residence upon his farm, which comprises one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 8, Lake township. The farm is equipped with all modern accessories and conveniences and presents a most attractive and pleasing appear- ance. Upon this place Mr. Covert has lived continuously since 1855, when he came to this county with his parents as a little lad of eight years. He was born in Rochester, New York, on the 10th of July, 1847, and was the only child of John and Esther (Hanby) Covert. The father's birth oceurred in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, October 22, 1817. He was a carpenter by trade and also worked in the cooper shop in Rochester. He possessed much natural mechanical skill and ability and could do almost anything in iron and wood work. In 1855, he brought his family from New York to Ohio, arriving on the 9th of November, at which time he took up his abode upon the farm which is now the home of his son James E. The family took possession of a little log cabin in which they lived exactly nine years when the father replaced the primitive structure by a modern farm dwelling. He purchased two hundred and twenty acres of land and in cultivating and improving this made it a valuable property. In addition to tilling the fields he also worked at the carpenter's trade to some extent and operated a blacksmith shop on his own farm. On the 13th of May, 1844, he was united in marriage to Miss Esther Hanby, who was born in County Down, Ireland, July 10, 1824, and:came to America in 1837 when thirteen years of age with her parents, the family home being established in Rochester, New York. She was the youngest of eleven children born unto Patrick and Esther Hanby. Prior to her marriage Mrs. Covert visited Ashland county, coming in 1839 with her brother, Thomas, who built the Rochester mill on Mohican creek in Lake township, this being the largest mill in the vicinity. It is still standng - a three-story building with three burrs that is not being operated at the present time. Following her marriage Mrs. Covert resided again in Rochester, New York, for a number of years and then with her husband and family once more took up her abode in Ashland county. She died January 25, 1887, while Mr. Covert passed away on the 13th of October, 1890. In his political belief he was a whig in early life, while subsequently he gave his support to the republican party. Both he and his wife were originally members of the Presbyterian church but after it was disbanded they joined the Reformed church in their home neighborhood and Mr. Covert served as one of its class leaders. They were worthy people, enjoying the warm regard and confidence of all with whom they came in contact, while the efforts and labors of Mr. Covert contributed in substantial measure to the growth and improvement of the county in agricultural and industrial lines.

James E. Covert was reared on the old home place where he has now resided for fifty-four years. He worked in the fields through the summer months, while the winter seasons were devoted to the acquirement of a public-school education. He also made substantial improvements upon the farm with the passage of the years, erecting his present fine home, which contains twelve rooms, in 1882. It is conveniently arranged and comfortably furnished, and is one of the fine farm houses in this part of the county. His place comprises one hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land on section 8, Lake township, for he has sold off forty acres of the original tract. A large barn upon the place was built by his father in 1868. The fields are well tilled and he annually gathers good crops, while from his fine orchard he reaps a substantial harvest

On the 17th of December, 1874,Mr. Covert was united in marriage to Miss Mary M. Hannan, who was born in Lake township, October 18, 1855, a daughter of William and Martha (Sowards) Hannan. The mother died when her daughter was a little girl and the father afterward wedded Mary Goodal and following her demise married Anna Mary Sowards, a sister of his first wife. The death of Mrs. Covert occurred April 28, 1899, and was deeply regretted by her many friends for she had ever displayed sterling traits of character that endeared her to those with whom she came in contact. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Covert were boru five children: Walter, who died in infancy; Nellie Irene, the wife of Frank Kilaver, of Green township, by whom she has one child; Robert Roy of Nashville, Ohio; Esther Elizabeth, at home; and Martha L., the wife of Hayes Baxter.

Mr. Covert gives his political allegiance to the republican party and is a citizen of progressive spirit, loyal to the best interests of the community. In the fifty-four years which have come and gone since he lived in the county he has been an interested witness of its upbuilding and progress and has been a factor in the changes which have been wrought in Lake township. In his farm work he is energetic and persistent, carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.

Elmer Shoemaker

Elmer Shoemaker, progressive and prosperous, is now well known as a restaurant proprietor and confectioner of Ashland and is a worthy representative of the commercial interests of the city. He was here born August 12, 1862, and is the oldest of the four children of John and Nancy (Heiffner) Shoemaker, both of whom were natives of this state. The father entered business life as a miller in Ashland and continued in the same line until he lost his eyesight in 1904, when he retired. He has always lived a quiet home life and his unassuming manner and sterling worth have gained for him the respect and good will of those with whom he has come in contact. In addition to the subject of this review the members of his household were: Marion, who was born in 1864; Lodema, who was born in 1867 and died in 1907; and Mrs. Grace Owens, born in 1871.

In taking up the personal history of Elmer Shoemaker we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known in Ashland where he has spent his entire life. At the usual age he entered the public schools, mastered the branches of learning taught in successive grades and. when he had put aside his text-books he beeame connected with photography and was associated with that art until 1904. He then opened the finest restaurant and candy kitchen in the city of Ashland and has continued in the business to the present time. He manufactures a portion of the confectionery used and all of the ice cream and he has an extensive family trade. He also manufactures syrups for his large soda fountain trade and is recognized as the leader in his line of business in Ashland, having an extensive patronage, his business having increased more than threefold in the last four years. He is always courteous to his patrons and his reasonable prices and straightforward business methods also constitute features in his growing success.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Shoemaker was married April 8, 1908, to Miss Hattie Shaffer, a daughter of Henry and Sarah Shaffer of Ashland. Politically Mr. Shoemaker is a democrat, and in 1907 was elected city treasurer and received endorsement of his services in reelection for a second term, so that he is now acting in this capacity. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and Knights of Pythias, and his religious faith is evident in his membership in the Methodist church. That many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood up to the present time is an indication that his has been an honorable and upright career, meriting the good will and esteem of those who know him.

James C. Farquharson

James C. Farquharson, who is largely interested in lumber and milling interests throughout several counties in this part of the state and who is now residing in Savannah, which he makes his business center, was born here April 18, 1860, a son of Robert and Jessie (Berry) Farquharson, natives of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, who came to this country with their children, Andrew, Robert and Jessie, about the year 1854, first settling at New London, Ohio. The members of.the family being affiliated with the United Presbyterian church, remained there but a brief period and then removed to Savannah that they might enjoy the privileges of their denominational faith in this place. Nine children of a family of twelve were all born in this city, where the father departed this life in 1876 while his wife is still living at the advanced age of eighty-one years. He was a shoemaker by trade and plied his craft here until death terminated his activities. He was a man whose excellent qualities of character gained him high standing in the community and his high sense of moral duty enabled him to wield a telling'influence for good among those with whom he came in contact. Of their twelve children eight are now surviving.

The common schools of this city, afforded James C. Farquharson his preliminary educational privileges and he subsequently pursued a course of study at Savannah Academy. However, being aflame with the spirit of industry he early desired to enter the business world and when twenty-one years of age comees the manufacture of drain tile on his own account and succeeded in building up an extensive enterprise, which he continued to operate for twenty years or until the railroads made it impossible for a manufacturer whose plant was located at a great distance from their lines to compete with the producer who manufactured his commodities near a railroad system, where he might have ready transportation. Mr. Farquharson, however, looked longingly for the time when the railroad would pass through Savannah and still kept up his interest in the tile business, at the same time operating his farm. Finally he abandoned the notion that this city would ever have a railroad passing through it, gave up the manufacture of tile and, engaging in the lumber business, operated a sawmill. In June, 1905, he purchased a tract of eighty acres of timberland in Columbiana county, to which place he removed during that year for the purpose of erecting a sawmill and obtaining a market for his product. Within the space of two years he had worked the entire tract of land and in 1907 came to this city, where he has since been giving his attention to his lumber interests in Ashland and Richland counties and at the same time managing his farm, which embraces something over two hundred and forty acres. Mr. Farquharson has been successful in all his undertakings and his industry and perseverance have enabled him to become a salient factor in the commercial and financial life of the community, where he is associated with various business interests.

On June 15, 1905, occurred the marriage of Mr. Farquharson to Miss Eldora MeMillin, a daughter of A. A. and Sarah (Ferrell) McMillin, of Ashland county. For many years her father plied his craft as a plasterer, later in life, however, having recourse to farming for a livelihood. He is still living at the advanced age of ninety-one years, highly respected for his upright life. His wife entered into rest some years ago. Politically Mr. Farquharson gives his support to the republican party and has served as a member of the county central committee for a number of years while he has also been frequently sent as a delegate to county, district and state conventions. He has always been deeply interested in local affairs and before he had reached his majority was elected clerk of the corporation and has since served in that office. Moreover he has performed the duties of township treasurer and also of village treasurer, has been elected a member of the village council. and also performed the duties of its chief executive. At to his religious convictions Mr. Farquharson is a member of the Presbyterian church, to which his wife also belongs, both being active in the affairs of the congregation, Mr. Farquharson having served for a number of years as treasurer of the Sunday school. His wife, being a talented musician 'who prior to her marriage was a successful music teacher, renders the church invaluable services in this line. He is also a lover of music, being able to perform on a number of instruments and in this way finds both pleasure and 'recreation. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F .& A. M., and, being a man who always has the -highest interests of the community at heart, contributing in many ways toward its material and as well its moral prosperity, he merits the reputation in which he is held by all who know him as one of the municipality's most progressive and representative citizens.

Andrew J. Griner

Andrew J. Griner, who has farm holdings in Jackson township, is now residing in the village of Polk, of which he at present is acting in the executive capacity of mayor, and also previously served in that office for several terms. He was born in Green township, Wayne county, this state, November 21, 1843, a son of Frederick and Sarah (Kintner) Griner, both of whom came from

Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, with their parents in the early pioneer days and were among those who assisted in developing the natural resources of this part of the state, in which they attained to considerable prominence. The name Griner is one which gained a wide reputation through these parts through the paternal grandfather, Philip G., who for a number of years kept a tavern at Smithville in Wayne county, the inn in those days being far different from the ordinary tavern of today by reason of the fact that they were not simply drinking places but particularly the meeting places of travelers and people throughout the community, who there entered into discussions of public questions, debating those issues upon which depend the public welfare. The father was an agriculturist, the tract of land he cultivated having been transformed from thick woodland into fertile fields, his son assisting in the work of improvement.

At the outbreak of the Civil war Andrew J. Griner enlisted, on August 15, 1862, in Company H., One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving throughout the struggle and being honorably discharged on October 16, 1865. His regiment witnessed much hard service in the army of the Mississippi particularly at the siege of Vicksburg, being present at the surrender. A. J. Griner participated in six battles with the regiment and for a period of thirty days in the three years was under continuous fire. However, Mr. Griner was fortunate in that he was never taken prisoner nor seriously wounded, although, as in the case of many others, he returned from the conflict with his health greatly impaired. Following the war he returned home and for two years assisted his father on the farm, presently removing to Fayette county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming for about one year. In 1869 he removed to Decatur, Illinois, where for one year he became interested in the grocery business, after which for a period of four years he worked at the carpenter trade. In the fall of 1872 returning to Wayne county, he managed his father's farm for two years, and then removed to Medina county,' where for four years he followed general agricultural pursuits. Again returning to Wayne county he settled near West Salem, where he followed farming and stock-raising for four years and in 1884 removed to Burbank, Wayne county, where for eight years he plied his craft as a carpenter. In 1892, Mr. Griner again had recourse to farming, this time near Albion, where he remained until 1894, when he went to Polk, where he devoted his time to agriculture and carpentry until February, 1909, when he was appointed agent for the Cleveland Southwestern & Columbus Railway, the duties of which office he is now performing.

On January 23, 1863, Mr. Griner wedded Miss Margaret Sands, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Frank) Sands, her father a prominent clergyman of the Reformed church. Mrs. Griner entered into rest April 27, 1904. To this ynion were born two children: Grant S. and Lodell G., both of whom reside with their father.

Mr. Griner. is a republican in politics, taking an active interest in the affairs of the party and frequently has been a delegate to county and district conventions. Being a man of intelligence and highly respected for his administrative ability he was elected as chief executive of Polk in 1900 and served for two terms, covering a period of four years. In 1906, he was again elected and is still performing the duties of that office. He belongs to. McCarty Post, No.

182, G. A. R., of which several times he has been commander, having also filled various after offices in that organization, of which he at the present time is commander. He is well known throughout Grand Army circles and on a number of occasions has been sent by his post as a delegate to state and national encampments. His religious affiliations are with the Methodist Episcopal church, to which he has belonged for many years and in which also he is an active worker. Being a musician of considerable ability and at the same time a teacher of vocal and instrumental music he finds recreation by this means and since coming to Polk has been chorister in the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Griner is one of the most enterprising and public-spirited men in the community, always ready to further all movements designed for its betterment particularly favoring good roads and schools, and in him the municipality finds one of its most honorable and excellent citizens.

C. W. McCool, one of the representative and respected residents of Ashland, has been quite active in political circles as a supporter of the democratic party and has proved a competent and faithful incumbent in various offices. He was born in this county in December, 1858, and is a son of James and Rhoda (Swasick) McCool, the former born in 1821 and the latter in 1825. Mrs. McCool was a daughter of James and Rhoda Swasick. In early life James McCool learned the miller's trade which he followed continuously until 1860, when he was elected sheriff of Ashland county. He proved so competent in office that in 1862, he was reelected and when he retired from office, at the close of his second term in 1864, he enjoyed the confidence, good will and esteem of his fellow citizens in the same full measure in which it was extended him at the beginning of his official service. Resuming the pursuits of private life he 'turned his attention to the livery business with which he was connected for a few years, when he sold out and established a grocery store which he managed until 1873. His last days were spent in honorable retirement from labor and he passed away in Florida in 1904, having for about nine years survived his wife who died in 1895. They were members of the Presbyterian church and were worthy people who enjoyed the good will and high respect of all who knew them. Mr. McCool gave his political allegiance to the democracy and was recognized as one of the party leaders in Ashland county.

C. W. McCool is the younger of two. children, his brother W. A .McCool being now a resident of Pennsylvania. He acquired a public-school education and in early life began clerking in a grocery store. For twenty-one years he was identified with that line of trade and was well known to the public as an enterprising representative of mercantile interests. In 1896, he was called to public office, being elected auditor of the county, in which position he served for two terms, after which he remained as deputy in the office of his successor, Mr. Westover, for one year. He has also filled other positions, acting as city treasurer for two terms and at all times has proved a competent official, discharg- ing his duties with promptness and fidelity, his course reflecting credit upon himself and proving highly satisfactory to his constituents. From early manhood he has taken a deep interest in political questions, always keeps well informed on the issues of the day and has never seen occasion to swerve in his unfaltering allegiance which he has always given to the democracy.

In August, 1905, Mr. McCool was married to Miss Linda Saal, a daughter of Jacob and Maria Saal, both of whom are now deceased, her father having passed away in 1906, while her mother's death oceurred in 1871. Their family numbered but two daughters: Mrs. Emma Myers and Mrs. McCool. The father was a butcher by trade and followed that business for many years, winning success in that line. He, too, figured prominently in connection with the official interests of the county. In 1891 he was elected to the office of county treasurer and public endorsement of his administration was given him in his reelection in 1893. After serving for two terms he retired to private life and for nearly forty years engaged in the butchering business, buying his own stock and doing his own slaughtering. Throughout that entire period he was recognized as one of the leading meat-market men of Ashland. He, too, was a democrat in his political views while his religious faith was indicated by his membership in the German reformed church. Mr. and Mrs. McCool hold membership in the Presbyterian church and Mr. McCool is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge at Ashland, and both are well known in Ashland and throughout the county, where they have many warm friends who esteem them highly for their genuine personal worth. Mr. McCool is known as a very public-spirited citizen, at all times interested in measures pertaining to the general good and giving hearty support to every movement that he deems will advance the interests of Ashland county.

Thomas C. Donley

Thomas C. Donley, residing on a farm in Orange township, has for forty years conducted business as a wool buyer artd dealer in stock. He is also widely known as a breeder of fine Jersey cattle and Berkshire hogs and his opinions are regarded as authority on live stock. He is one of Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Nashville township, Holmes county, Ohio, March 2, 1846. His parents were John and Sarah Ann (Alberson) Donley, farming people of Ashland county, the father there carrying on agricultural pursuits for many years. He died on the 23d of June, 1880, and the mother has also passed away.

The early life of Thomas C. Donley was quietly and uneventfully passed upon the home farm. He received instruction in the work of the fields as his years and strength increased, while his mental discipline was attained in the district schools and later in the Savannah Academy. After leaving that institution he engaged in teaching school for three years, but during the greater part of his life has given his undivided time and attention to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising.

Mr. Donley was twenty-six years of age when, on the 5th of December, 1872, he was united in marriage to Miss Iva Ann Smith, a daughter of David and

Rosetta (Bates) Smith. Her father was a native of Wayne county, Ohio, but became a farmer of Orange township, Ashland county, where for many years he successfully tilled his fields. The Bates family is also an old one in this part of the state, their representatives being numbered among the valued and worthy citizens of Ohio. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Donley has been blessed with eight children and the family circle yet remains unbroken by the hand of death. In order of birth these are: Maude L., now the wife of R. R. Reed, of Barberton ; John L.,; David C.; Anna, now the wife of Walter W. Ingman, of Ashland; Stella S., the wife of W. Sampson; Elizabeth; Esther May; and James Paul, who is yet a student. Following his marriage, Mr. Donley settled on the farm which has since been his home, covering a period of thirty-seven years. He is a breeder of fine Jersey cattle, keeping registered stock both for breeding and dairy purposes, and he likewise raises high grade Berkshire hogs. He is an excellent judge of stock so that he has made judicial purchases and profitable sales. His business interests are all capably conducted and there has been no esoteric phase in his career, his sound judgment and energy constituting the basis of his success.

In public affairs relating to the upbuilding of the county Mr. Donley is also actively interested. He has been a member of the school board and was a member of the jury commission for two years, and he has always been a stalwart champion of good roads, good schools and good works. His political allegiance is given to the republican party, and he is an active worker in the party ranks. He belongs to the Presbyterian church with which his wife and family are also connected, and he has not only served as a trustee of the church but has also been a teacher and active worker in the Sunday school with which his wife is connected in similar manner. Mr. and Mrs. Donley are greatly interested in the education of their children, knowing that when they give them good opportunities for mental development and discipline they give to them something which never can be taken from them and which can constitute the basis of honorable lives and substantial success. An air of refinement and culture pervades their home and books and the best periodicals are very generously provided. Its hospitality also reigns supreme and' a hearty welcome is extended to all their friends, with which number Ashland's citizens are glad to be classed.

Sherman Ward Beer

Sherman Ward Beer, who for more than twenty years was prominently and successfully identified with the manufacturing interests of Ashland, was born near that city on the 6th of May, 1837, his parents being William and Mary (Mann) Beer. The father was a prosperous and progressive agriculturist, residing two and a half miles south of Ashland. Sherman W. Beer was reared to the work of the farm and obtained such education as the schools of the locality afforded. After starting out in business life on his own account he was for many years connected with the hardware trade in Ashland, and in 1870 he formed a partnership with Jacob J. Kauffman for the manufacture of spring beds and cots. This relaton was continued until the death of Mr. Beer in 1894, the enterprise being widely recognized as one of the leading manufacturing concerns of Ashland. Enterprising, progressive, alert and strictly honorable in all dealings, Mr. Beer was well entitled to his place among the representative business men and citizens of the county and richly merited the respect and esteem which was uniformly accorded him.

On the 29th of April, 1873, Mr. Beer was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Urie, a daughter of Major George W. and Elizabeth (Murray) Urie, of Ashland, who were among the early settlers of this county. Major Urie, who was the first treasurer of Ashland county and also held other official positions of trust and responsibility, passed away in this county in 1898, when he had attained the venerable age of ninety-two years and eleven months. His wife had been called to her final rest in 1861, when fifty-eight years of age. The record of their children is as follows: Mary J., who became the wife of Giles Porter and died in 1875, leaving two children; Alice A., the wife of T. M. Beer; Elizabeth H., who gave her hand in marriage to the Rev. W. W. Anderson, of Loudonville, Ashland county, Ohio; Wilson S., born:in 1839, who died when only five years of age; Adaline M., whose birth occurred in 1844 and who passed away at the age of eight years; and Sarah A., born in 1842, who became the wife of Sherman Ward Beer, by whom she had one son, George W. Beer, who was born in 1880 and is a graduate of Cornell University.

Though not an active politician, Mr. Beer gave unfaltering support to republican candidates and principles and his cooperation was always given on the side of progress, truth, justice and right. Publiec-spirited to an eminent degree, he exerted a widely felt influence in the county's material development' and upbuilding. His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church, to which he contributed lberally of his time and means, acting as deacon of the church and also as superintendent of the Sunday school for many years. Fraternally he was a thirty-second degree Mason and exemplified the teachings of the craft in his daily life. His demise, which occurred in Ashland on the 14th of September, 1894, was deeply and widely mourned, his honorable and well spent life having won him the admiration and regard of an extensive circle of friends. His widow still survives and is well and favorably known throughout the community, the hospitality of the best homes being cordially extended her.

Thomas Eh. Thornburg

Thomas E. Thornburg needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for he is widely known not only in Ashland county but also throughout Ohio, and is one of the leading horticulturists of the state. He has closely studied the best methods of cultivating fruit, understands the nature of the soil required for the various kinds and his products have been so superior in size and quality as to find a very ready sale on the market. Yet it is not alone because of his success in business that Mr. Thornburg deserves mention in this volume. He is one of the native sons of the county, representing two of its oldest and most honored families. He was born May 3, 1861, and is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thornburg. . One of his great-grandfathers was Daniel Carter who was the first settler in what is now Ashland but was then a part of Richland county, the year of his arrival being 1811. One of the old cabins which he occupied is yet standing as a landmark in the county and a mute witness of the wonderful changes which have since been wrought. A cupboard which he brought with him to this state is still in possession of the family and Mr. Thornburg of this review, has a large collection of relics which were brought by his ancestors to this district in pioneer times and which he zealously safeguards, valuing them highly. The old homestead of Daniel Carter was in the same locality as the present farm of Thomas E. Thornburg. One of his great-grandfathers in the maternal line was Michael Springer, who arrived in Ohio in 1815, making the trip on horseback from Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, across the mountains and through the forests where the road was little more than "an Indian trail. The greater part of the land was still in possession of the government and he entered three hundred and sixty acres which were covered by the native forest growth. He was therefore closely associated with the early agricultural development of the county, for with characteristic energy he began to clear his fields. The great-grandfather and the grandfather of our subject in the Thornburg line were also early residents of Ashland county: The maternal grandfather, John Springer, also developed a good farm here and it is now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Thornburg, the parents of Thomas E. Thornburg, his mother having spent her entire life upon the farm where she yet lives. She was one of a family of ten children, the youngest living to the age of forty-six years, while the oldest reached the ripe old age of about eighty. Both of Mr. Thornburg's grandfathers were born in the year 1794 and each passed away at the age of eighty-four, there being only about two months difference in their ages. at the date of their deaths. The Springer family came originally from Germany, although representatives of the name were driven from that country into Holland, whence they sailed for America about 1680. The Thornburgs were natives of Pennsylvania, the family being established there at an early period in the colonization of the new world.

Thomas EK. Thornburg pursued his education in the district schools and spent a year and a half at the Vermillion Institute in Hayesville, Ohio. He was reared on the old homestead which was originally the property of his grandfather, John Springer, and throughout his entire life has devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits, making a specialty, however, of gardening and raising of fruit. He is one of the most practical and successful fruitgrowers in Ohio, and such is the excellence of his product that it always. commands the highest price on the market and is much sought after by the wholesale merchants. It is most carefully sorted out and is always up to the standard, and such is his commercial integrity that his fruit goes without question. At the time of his marriage he located upon the farm which he now owns and operates and in the intervening years he has set out his orchards and promoted their development until his is today one of the finest fruit farms of Ohio. His place was all

In 1888 Mr. Thornburg was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Groeshner, who was born on the 10th of May, 1865, and is a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Groeshner of Ashland. Her father was originally from Germany but for many years has resided in this county and is one of its worthy and respected citizens. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thornburg have been born two sons, Paul Eugene, whose birth occurred April 17, 1895, and Atley Cecil, who passed away in infancy. In his political views Mr. Thornburg is a stalwart democrat with firm faith in the principles of the party and both he and his wife are members of the Congregational church, in the work of which they are helpfully interested. In all of his business career he has been actuated by a spirit of enterprise and progress that has led him beyond the attainment of others, bringing him gratifying success and winning for him an enviable reputation as one of the most progressive and well known horticulturists of Ohio.

Lewis M. Groeshner

The farming and stock-raising interests of Ashland county find a worthy and prosperous representative in Lewis M. Groeshner, of Orange township. His birth occurred in Montgomery township, this county, February 14, 1868, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth (Schneider) Groeshner, who sailed from Germany to the United States immediately after their marriage, taking up their abode in Wooster, Ohio, in 1854. The father, who was a cabinet maker, there worked at his trade for two years and subsequently came to Ashland, where he was engaged in cabinet making and carpentering until called to~his final rest on the 16th of April, 1895. His wife, surviving him for a number of years, passed away on the 10th of October, 1908. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely: John H., Elizabeth, Augusta, Catherine and Lewis M., all residents of Ashland county ; and Minnie, who is deceased.

Lewis M. Groeshner obtained his education in the schools of Ashland and since early manhood has devoted his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He was actively engaged in the tilling of the soil in Montgomery township until 1901, when he came to Orange township and, with the exception of three years spent as a clerk in a grocery store at Ashland, has here since been engaged in general farming and stock raising with excellent success. His farm presents a neat and well kept appearance and in all his undertakings Mr. Groeshner has met with a measure of prosperity that entitles him to recognition among the substantial, progressive and enterprising citizens of the community.

On the 6th of June, 1894, Mr. Groeshner was united in marriage to Miss Anna Luetta Mason, a daughter of Lewis and Mary (Charlton) Mason, of Orange township. Her father, who is a. prominent citizen and extensive landowner, is the oldest man in Orange township. Unto our subject and his wife have been born two sons, Cummings EH. and Virgil Henry.

Politically Mr. Groeshner is a democrat and, though not an active party worker, has never neglected to cast his ballot at an election. Anything that tends to promote the interests of the county along material, educational and moral lines receives his hearty support and cooperation. Fraternally he is connected with Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F., in which he has filled all of the chairs and is now past grand and a member of the uniformed rank. He is the teacher of the old ladies' class in the Sunday school of the Methodist Episcopal church at Nankin, of which his wife and children are also devoted and faithful members. As he has lived in this county throughout his entire life, he has a wide acquaintance here and his friends know him as a man of sterling integrity and genuine worth.

Thomas N. McKean, proprietor of the leading transfer and storage plant of Ashland, is a native of Wayne county, Ohio, born February 16, 1858, and a son of Samuel and Jane (Miller) McKean, his father also a native of that county, while his mother was born in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania. Samuel McKean's birth occurred in 1833 and in the place of his pativity he was reared, engaging in general agricultural pursuits there until 1868, when he settled upon a farm in this county for three years, later removing to the city of Ashland, where he has since resided. Upon arriving here he engaged in the drayage business, later establishing a meat business which he continued for several years and finally engaged in the manufacture of harness, which industry he pursued until he retired from active life. He is still residing in this city. A democrat in politics he has always taken an interest in the affairs of his party and for a number of years served efficiently as constable. He belongs to the United Brethren church, of which he is a stanch adherent and, being a man whose daily life is in close keeping with the tenets of his faith, he deserves the high measure of respect in which he is held. His wife, born in 1834, came with her parents when a young woman from Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, to Wayne county, this state, where she was united in marriage and after a long life of usefulness she still survives in the enjoyment of a degree of health and vigor uncommon to those of her years.

Under the careful attention of his parents Thomas N. McKean was reared and given the advantage of an education in the public schools. Upon completing his studies at the age of fifteen years, being ambitious to start out into the business world, he secured a position as general utility boy in the Miller Hotel of Ashland, where he performed his duties efficiently for three years. Later he devoted one summer to farming, the following spring purchasing a team and entering the general hauling business here. At the time he launched out in this enterprise he only had enough money to pay for one horse and its equipment and the other horse, making up the team, he purchased on credit. This was the initial venture of his present lucrative and extensive business. Little by little, through hard work and good management, he became popular, working his way into the drayage business and eventually securing a large portion of the hauling laid out by the commercial establishments of the city. As time passed by and his means increased he associated with his undertaking that of storage and he now owns a first class storage warehouse, measuring twenty-four by ninety feet, the only business of this kind in the city. His trade has gradually grown to large proportions, requiring constantly eleven teams together with a number of hired hands,

On October 10, 1881, Mr. McKean was united in marriage to Miss Artha M. Markel, of this city. They have one son, Earl K., who is associated in business with his father. As to his political affiliations Mr. McKean is a democrat, always loyal to the party, particularly with respect to national and state issues. He belongs to Excelsior Camp, No. 3287, M. W. A. and is a member of the Lutheran church, of which he is a liberal supporter and, being a man whose business relations have always been conducted on the basis of honesty, he entertains the confidence of all who know him and deserves mention as a leading business man of the city.

Abel C. Metcalf

Abel C. Metcalf, who resides upon a beautiful farm in Lake township, Ashland county, and is engaged in general farming and stock raising, is a member of an old and well known family of this county. The grandfather, Josiah Metcalf, who founded the family in Ohio, came from Pennsylvania with his family and settled near Jeromeville, Ashland county, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits. His death, however, occurred in Michigan, at the home of his daughter. In his family were six children, George, William, Amos, Vachel, Allen and Nellie. Allen Metcalf, the father of our subject, was born June 17, 1819, on the home farm near Jeromeville, and during his early life ran a sawmill, being thus engaged until his marriage, which occurred January 18, 1844. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Goudy, was also born near Jeromeville, this county, her natal day being August 25, 1824. After his marriage Mr. Metcalf purchased a farm of fifty-eight acres in Lake township and devoted his remaining days to farming. He later purchased other farm land and at the time of his death his holdings aggregated three hundred acres. He became well known in this part of the county, serving for some time as justice of the peace, while his fellowmen, recognizing his ability and worth, called him to several other township offices. He and his wife spent their entire lives in Ashland county, where they passed away, his death occurring December 13, 1878, while she survived until February 8, 1901. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely: Abel C., of this review; Sarah Jane, the wife of L. S. Shearer, residing on a farm near his elder brother ; William, who died in infancy; James Henry, of Wayne county, Ohio; Martha, who wedded F. M. Dirrim, a resident of Iowa; and Sianett, the deceased wife of William T. Murrel.

- On the old homestead, amid the wholesome scenes of rural life, Abel C. Metcalf was reared to manhood, early becoming familiar with the daily routine of farm life and assuming his full share in the work of the fields. He remained with his parents until his marriage, when he purchased his present farm of one hundred and eighty-five acres, adjoining that of his father, upon which he has since resided. On this farm are two sets of buildings and in its midst is a pretty little lake called Lake Martha. When the property came into his possession there stood upon it a small log cabin which subsequently gave place to a fine large house erected by Mr. Metcalf. He has also built substantial and commodious barns and outbuildings, and the farm, known as Prairie View Farm, is one of the finest country homes in this section of the country. Here he carries on general farming and stock raising, and the success which has crowned his undertakings is the just reward of unfaltering industry and untiring perseverance. He is classed among the prosperous and successful agriculturists and influential citizens of this community.

In 1870 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Metcalf and Katharine Fulmer, a native of Lake township, Ashland county, her birth occurring June 20, 1851. She is a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Hoffman) Fulmer, both natives of Alsace, France. They were there married and soon afterward came to the United States, spending their remaining days in Ashland county, Ohio. In their family were six sons and five daughters, three of whom died in childhood. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf were born the following children: Eddie F., who was killed July 13, 1892, while in his twenty-first year, by a runaway horse; Allen J., a resident of Clinton township, Wayne county, who has two children, Leo Clayton and Katharine Freda; Fred D., residing in Cleveland; Ralph W., who occupies the other dwelling on his father's farm and has one child, Evelyn Grace; Bryon R., of Wayne county, the father of a daughter and son, Helen R. and Carl B.; Zeno P., an entomologist, who graauated from the Ohio State University at Columbus and is now with the State Experiment Farm of North Carolina; and Clell L., a student in the State University at Columbus. In his religious faith Mr. Metcalf is a member of the Evangelical church, is a trustee of the church property and is interested in all phases of the church work. He gives his political support to the democracy and lends his influence towards furthering the interests of that party, while on that ticket he was elected trustee of the township, which office he occupied for several years. He has also served as a school official and the cause of education finds in him a warm champion. In his citizenship he is public-spirited, being in hearty sympathy with all measures and movements which have for their ultimate aim the material, intellectual and moral progress of the community, while his sterling qualities have gained for him a high place in the regard and esteem of his fellowmen.

Charles H. Bryan

Charles H. Bryan was born on his present farm on section 19, Mohican township, his natal day being September 6, 1863. Here he has remained to the present time, covering the period when life was one continuous playtime, on through the age when the work of the fields claimed a part of his attention, while the remainder was given to the mastery of the branches of learning taught in the public schools, and still on to the time when business affairs demanded all of his hours and energies. He was the grandson of William and Sarah (Kirk) Bryan, the former a native of Virginia while the latter was born in Pennsylvania. The grandfather came to Ohio with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bryan, who settled in Jefferson county, where he had previously entered for them a farm before their arrival. Later Joseph Bryan removed to Ashland county and entered three-quarters of a section of land on the 10th of March, 1815, and soon afterward took up his abode thereon. His son William, was married in 1819 and located on this farm in the same year, making it his home throughout his remaining days, while the great-grandfather, Joseph Bryan, took up his abode on an adjoining farm and there continued to reside until called to his final rest. Joseph Bryan had three sons, Reuben, William and Joseph, the eldest of whom died at Fostoria, Ohio, while Joseph spent his last days in Illinois. William Bryan always continued a resident of Ashlaud eounty and here he reared his family, namely: Martha, Sarah, Joanna, Wilson, Washington, Wesley and William P. The last named was the father of Charles H. Bryan. His entire life was spent in this county, his birth having occurred in Mohican township, on the 17th of November, 1838. He was reared to the occupation of farming and continued to follow that pursuit until his life's labors were ended in death. In early manhood he worked by the month for about six years and then as the result of his careful expenditure, was enabled to engage in farming on his own account. He was very diligent in carrying on his agricultural interests, placing his business cares as the foremost feature in his life, so that his close application and persistency of purpose eventually won him a creditable measure of success. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Wachtel, was born in Mohicanville, December 14, 1843, and was a daughter of Jacob and Hettie (Helbert) Wachtel, the latter a sister of Henry Helbert and a representative of one of the leading and prominent families of the county. The death of William P. Bryan occurred November 21, 1908, when he was seventy years of age, while his wife passed away April 19, 1906. They were the parents of six children: Charles, of this review; Mary, the widow of J. D. Botdorf, who resides with her elder brother; Lewis, who is also on the same farm; Harrison, who died at the age of twenty-three years; Dora D., the wife of Ira Myers, of Perry township; and Isa, the wife of Luther Jones, living in Vermillion township.

It will be seen from the foregoing record that the Bryan family is one of the oldest and also one of the best known in this part of the state. Through almost a century its representatives have resided in Ashland county, taking an active and helpful part in all measures relative to the public good, while their efforts have been equally valuable in the line of agricultural development here.

Charles H. Bryan supplemented his early education acquired in the public schools by study in the Vermillion Institute at Hayesville, and he also engaged in teaching school for one term. However he has given his attention most largely to the further development and improvement of the home farm and the estate comprises one hundred and three acres of land. The soil is rich and - productive and brings forth good harvests. Everything about the place is indicative of the care and labor bestowed upon it and shows what may be accomplished when intelligent cultivation is brought to bear upon the natural rich soil of Ohio. Mr. Bryan is a democrat in his political views and has filled some local offices, acting as township assessor for two years, while for six years he was clerk of the township. He is a member of the Church of God and for the past fifteen years has been an elder in the Vermillion Synagogue.

Henry Helbert was eighty-two years of age on the 6th of April, 1909, his birth having occurred in Bedford county, Pennsylvania. He is one of the oldest residents of Ashland county in years of continuous connection with this part of the state, for he was brought to this district in 1835 when a lad of eight years. His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Mock) Helbert, who were natives of Pennsylvania, born and reared about thirty miles west of Philadelphia. After their marriage they removed to Bedford county, that state, and eleven of their twelve children were there born, while John Helbert, their youngest, was born in Ashland. Hoping to secure a home and win success on the western frontier, they made their way to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1835, and the father purchased a tract of land north of Mohican, on which both he and his wife spent their remaining days. He built the first bank barn in Mohican township and a neighbor made the remark that Mr. Helbert would ''never get enough growed to fill this barn.'' However, his crops the first year were more than sufficient to utilize the capacity thus afforded. With characteristic energy he cleared his land and improved one hundred and sixty acres, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation. He also bought one hundred and ten acres additional and afterward gave that to his son. Both he and his wife reached an advanced age, the former passing away at the age of ninety vears and six months, while the mother was eighty vears at the time of her death. Their children were as follows: Maria, the deceased wife of John Newman; William, who was a twin brother of Maria and went to California in the spring of 1849, his death their oceurring two years later; Jaeob, deceased; Michael, living in Vermillion township; Rebeeca, who became the wife of John Garst and died in 1862; Peter, who died in June, 1908. at the age of eighty-four vears in Jeromeville, where he was living retired: Kittie. who married Jacob Wachtel and after his death became the wife of Charles Cosner; Henry. of this review; Sarah, who is the widow of Henry Wachtel and lives on the old home place; Levi, deceased; Edward, a resident of Jeromeville; and John, living in Havyesville.

The family traveled westward, making the trip with a three-horse team, eventually arriving in Mohican township which was then a part of Wayne county. For a year they lived in the woods in a little log cabin and then removed to a farm in Tree Hollow. about a mile away from their first settlement. A year was there passed, on the expiration of which period the father purchased one hundred and sixty aeres of land a half mile north of Mohican. This was in the spring of 1837. The tract was covered with dense timber and in the midst of the green woods he built his cabin. Henry Helbert remained upon that farm until nineteen years of age, when he began learning the blacksmith trade, but after eighteen months was obliged to give it up as he found that he was not strong enough for the work. He then engaged in farming for his widowed sister for ten years. On the 14th of April, 1859, he was married and in the spring of 1860 removed to his present home which is situated on section 36, Vermillion township. He has erected all of the fine buildings here and now has an excellent property of one hundred and twenty acres. He likewise bought one hundred and sixty acres adjoining on the south and built the buildings upon that place. He next bought one hundred and eighty acres on section 26, Vermillion township, and also purchased one hundred and fifty acres on section 27 in the same township, so that his total possessions are six hundred and ten acres in Vermillion township, all well improved with modern equipment and good buildings, some of the buildings being particularly fine. His father gave him five hundred dollars toward purchasing his place and Mr. Helbert went in debt for the remainder, but in those first few years he was most careful in his expenditures and in time was able to pay off the entire amount on the property. He has had altogether about four thousand dollars given him, but he has given much more than that to his children. His whole life has been devoted to the farm and his unremitting energy and careful management contained the secret of his success.

Mr. Helbert was married to Miss Anna Long, who was born November 30, 1836, and when two years of age was brought to Lake township, this county, by her parents, Peter and Margaret (Barnhart) Long, natives of Alsace, France. Their family numbered three daughters and seven sons, all of whom are yet living. The mother's birth occurred January 5, 1805, and the father was born October 6, 1807. In early life they became residents of Stark county, Ohio, and were there married. Peter Long was a tailor by trade and had previously followed that pursuit in Pittsburg for a time, coming to America a year before the lady whom in 1827 he made his wife. They removed from Stark county to Ashland county and for a considerable period Mr. Long engaged in farming but in the spring of 1868 left the farm and retired to Loudonville, where his remaining days were spent in the enjoyment of well earned rest. While carrying on agricultural pursuits he also made clothes for the family. He had one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 7 in Lake township and also eighty acres adjoining. He was a Lutheran in his religious faith and a democrat in his political belief. He filled several township offices, including that of trustee. His wife died December 20, 1875, while his death occurred January 12, 1893. They were the parents of ten children: George W., residing in Llayesville; Peter, who crossed the plains to California in 1852 with his brother George, who returned three or four years later, while Peter remained and is now living in San Jose, California; John M., a resident of Mansfield. Ohio; Anna, the wife of Henry Helbert, whose home is in Vermillion township; Adam, living on section Te Lake township; Mary, the wife of G. A. Showalter. of Columbus; Katharine, the widow of Frederick Smith, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Daniel, of Creston, Wayne county, Ohio; William, of Kalamazoo county, Michigan; and

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Helbert have been born seven children: Reason Franklin, who married Rosella Brubaker and died in November, 1908; Jacob Andrew, residing in Loudonville; Ella, the wife of David Leidigh of WehiGn township ; Peter J., also living in Mohican township ; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank Budd, of AShiatels Gust William, a resident of Vermillion township; and Curtis Lee, who died at the age of seven years.

In his political views Mr. Helbert is a democrat but though he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day and desires the success of the party, he has never sought nor wished for public office for himself, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business affairs, in which he is meeting with good success. His entire life has been devoted to the farm and his well directed energy and unfaltering industry have constituted the foundation upon which he has builded his prosperity. He and his family are widely known in this part of the county and the hospitality of the best homes is freely accorded them.

Garrett A. Johnson

Garrett A. Johnson, a well known agriculturist, dairyman and stock raiser of Sullivan township, where he owns a neat and well improved farm of one hundred and fifty acres, was born on the place where he now resides, his natal day being July 17, 1852. His parents, Ambrose and Mary (Van Wagnen) Johnson, were natives of Schenectady, New York. Leaving the Empire state, the father made his way to Twinsburg, Ohio, while the mother accompanied her parents on their removal to this state about the same time. The marriage of Ambrose Johnson and Mary Van Wagnen was celebrated at Twinsburg and soon afterward, in 1842, they came to Sullivan township, Ashland county, locating upon the farm where their son, Garrett A., now resides. The place was all covered with timber and their first home was a rude shanty made of boards, which afforded shelter until the trees could be cut down and a frame dwelling erected. Ambrose Johnson had been deprived of educational opportunities in his youth but possessed much more than the average natural intelligence and was moreover a man of strong, resolute character and sterling integrity. He continued to reside on his farm in Sullivan township until called to his final rest on the 28th of February, 1882, his death being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. The demise of his wife occurred February 8, 1896, and thus the county lost two of its most worthy and respected pioneer settlers whose labors had contributed in substantial measure to its early development and upbuilding. They had become the parents of five sons and three daughters, of whom four sons and two daughters are yet living, as follows: Henrietta, the wife of Mareus DeMoss, of Sullivan; Joseph O., who is a resident of Wellington ; Mrs. Mary E. DeMoss, of Oklahoma; George W.., living in Ashland; Garrett A., of this review; and Charles E., who makes his home in Cleveland.

Garrett A. Johnson was reared on the old home farm and supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the district schools of his native township, by attendance at Lodi Academy. In early manhood he took up the profession of school teaching and subsequent to his marriage he continued teaching for several years in his home district in Sullivan township, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired. Upon severing his connection with educational interests he turned his attention to the pursuits of farming and dairying, giving the greater part of his time and energies to the latter branch of activity. He originally dealt in Holstein cattle but in recent years has bred the red polled cattle exclusively. The stock is all high grade and many of his thoroughbreds have sold at excellent prices. His farm consists of one hundred and fifty acres of valuable land, all of which is tillable except a small tract of timber on which there are nearly five hundred sugar maple trees, yielding a generous supply of maple syrup and sugar annually. The place is equipped with many fine improvements and in fact is lacking in none of the accessories and conveniences of a model farming property of the twentieth century. The various buildings are commodious, substantial and in good repair, the fences are well kept, the land is all well drained and the general air of neatness and thrift which pervades the premises indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In all of his business affairs he is alert and enterprising, meeting with the measure of success which always rewards earnest, persistent and well directed labor.

On the 19th of October, 1875, Mr. Johnson was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ella Baldwin, a daughter of Rev. C. C. and Martha (Smith) Baldwin. Her father, a minister of the Congregational church, was a home missionary in northern Michigan for several years and subsequently was pastor of a church at Sullivan for a number of years. His demise occurred at Oberlin, Ohio, May 22, 1884, while his wife passed away at Benzonia, Michigan, on the 6th of July, 1893. Like her husband, Mrs. Johnson also taught school for several years prior to her marriage and was widely recognized as a most successful and progressive educator. By her marriage she has become the mother of twelve children, eleven of whom still survive, namely: Bessie E., the wife of Elbert Harvey, of Basin, Wyoming; Mary Grace, who is the wife of Ira E. Garver, of Sullivan; Edward C., living in Ashland, Ohio; Charles A., who resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Arthur B., who makes his home in Spencer, Medina, county, Ohio; Ruth E.; Leonard G., of Benzonia, Michigan; Kent B.; Donald V.; Lawrence V.; and Harold D. Martha L., the eighth in order of birth, has passed away. The parents, realizing fully the value of good mental training as a preparation for the practical and responsible duties of life, have given each of their children excellent educational opportunities and their home is liberally supplied with a great variety of the best standard and current literature.