Ashland City (part 47 of 57)

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Johnson has given unfaltering allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and is an active worker in its local ranks. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust. Te has served as township assessor for many years and was for a long period a member of the township board of education, acting on this board when the Central high gchool building was erected. His efforts were also an important factor in the establishment of the Central school system in Sullivan township. He has been a member of the republican county central committee for many years and almost every year is a delegate to the county, district and state conventions of his party. His aid and cooperation can always be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to promote the general welfare and he is an enthusiastic advocate of good roads, schools, churches and civic improvements of all kinds that tend toward advancement along material, intellecttial and moral lines. He is a valued and exemplary member of the Congregational church, in which he is serving as deacon and as president of the church society. Both he and his wife have been teachers in the Sunday school for many years and their children are also helpful in Sunday school work, some of them acting as teachers. The Johnson home is an ideal American home - modern in its appointments, refined in its environment and hospitable in its atmosphere. Mr. Johnson has never left the farm where his birth occurred and has probably lived on one farm longer than any other person in Sullivan township. He is widely and favorably known throughout the community and has won uniform trust and good will by reason of a life which in all of its phases has been straightforward and honorable.

Harrison H. Owens

Harrison H. Owens, of Jackson township, who throughout his active business career has been engaged in carpentering and farming, is one of the worthy native sons of Ashland county, his birth having occurred in Orange township on the 15th of November, 1840. The following year his parents, Robert M. and Sarah (Grafton) Owens, took up their abode in Jackson township and, with the exception of brief intervals, he has resided here continuously since. Robert M. Owens, who was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, was twice married and subsequent to the death of his first wife came to Ohio with his family of seven children. Soon afterward he wedded Miss Sarah Grafton, likewise of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, by whom he had three children, of whom Harrison H., of this review, was the eldest. Robert M. Owens was a shoemaker and followed that trade successfully until his life's labors were ended in death in March, 1864. He was a man of strong character and convictions and his honorable and upright life won him the esteem and regard of all with whom he was associated. His early political allegiance was given to the whig party, while later he supported the candidates and principles of the republican party.

Harrison H. Owens obtained his education in the schools of Polk and when a little lad witnessed the erection of the first house in the village, the surrounding country being largely covered with timber. In early manhood he became identified with business pursuits as a carpenter and farmer and his efforts have been no unimportant factor in the work of development and improvement that has transformed this region from a wilderness into one of fertile fields and thriving towns. In 1859 he went to California and Nevada, being engaged in mining until 1864, when he returned to Jackson township and in February of that year enlisted as a member of Company G, Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which he was made sergeant. William McKinley was major of the regiment. Mr. Owens saw active and arduous service at the front until the close of hostilities and was mustered out July 25, 1865, returning to his home in Jackson township with a splendid military record. He still carries the scar of a wound received at the battle of Cloyd Mountain, Virginia. In 1866 he again made his way to California, being there engaged in mining for two years, on the expiration of which period he returned to Jackson township and wag married. Subsequently he took up his abode in Polk and has here made his home to the present time, having long been numbered among the substantial, enterprising and progressive citizens of the community. For a number of years he was engaged in carpentering and has also been identified with agricultural pursuits to some extent.

On the 28th of February, 1868, Mr. Owens was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Westhover, a daughter of Charles and Sarah (Zimmerman) Westhover, of Perry township, who came here from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in pioneer days. The members of the Zimmerman family were very early settlers in this section of the state and became prominent factors in the agricultural development of the county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Owens have been born four children, namely: Edith V.; Charles, a resident of Ashland; Ella, the wife of Reuben Kopp; and Jennie, who is the wife of Frederick Hartzell, of Polk.

Politically Mr. Owens is a stanch republican and has been an active worker in the local ranks of the party. He has served as a member of the village council and also on the board of education for a number of years, ever discharging his official duties in a prompt and efficient manner. FF raternally he is connected with Sullivan Lodge, No. 313,-F. & A. M., in which he has held all of the offices, and still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in McCarty Post, G. A. R., of Polk, having also served in the different offices of this organization. Both he and his wife are well and favorably known throughout the county in which they have lived for so long a period, having been interested witnesses of its growth and development from pioneer times down to the present.

James L. And John E. Crone

James L. and John E. Crone are numbered among the enterprising, successful and representative agriculturists of Montgomery township. Their parents were Tobias and Eva (Mellott) Crone, the former born in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, in October, 1825, and the latter in Bedford county, that state, September 13, 1831. In early manhood Tobias Crone accompanied his father on his removal! to Ashland county, Ohio, locating here when the district was still wild and unimproved. As time passed he developed a good farm property and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until he passed away in 1897, leaving a widow and seven children to mourn his loss. With the assistance of his sons he had accumulated extensive and valuable landed holdings, the different members of the family remaining at home and all working together in perfect harmony and to their mutual benefit. In his political views Tobias Crone was a stalwart democrat and in religious belief was a Lutheran, exemplifying the teachings of the church in his daily life. The record of his children is as follows: George E., whose birth occurred in 1854; Thomas A., who was born in 1855 and in 1886 wedded Miss Mary Nelson, a daughter of William Nelson, by whom he has one child, Nancy; Jennie, born in 1857, who passed away in 1891; Francis C., who first opened his eyes to the light of day in 1859; Wilham M., whose natal year was 1861; James L., born in 1863; John E., whose birth occurred November 30, 1865; and Harry T., who was born November 13, 1867. Each of the sons has a well improved farm and they are still working together with mutual profit, being widely recognized as prosperous, progressive and energetic citizens of the community.

In 1892 James L. Crone was united in marriage to Miss Flora Kendig, a daughter of Clinton Kendig, and they now have two daughters, namely: Gretchen and Luzetta. James L. Crone is now serving as infirmary director, which position he has capably filled for several years and is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community for his many excellent traits of character and genuine personal worth.

As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life John E. Crone chose Miss Helen Ewing, a daughter of Samuel Ewing. Unto them have been born the following children: Edna M., Esther M., Arthur E. and Dorothy M. Mr. Crone gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the democracy, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church. The name of Crone has been closely associated with the agricultural development of this county from an early period in its annals to the present time and John E. Crone, like others of the family, has made a creditable record by his activity, enterprise, integrity and success in his chosen field of labor.

Samuel W. Black

Samuel W. Black has now passed the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten for his birth occurred March 3, 1834, in this county. He was for a long period identified with commercial interests in Ashland but is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He not only deserves mention in this volume as one who in business life has always been progressive and enterprising but also as a pioneer resident, belonging to one of the oldest families in the county. His parents were Samuel M. and Rosanna (Cashdollar) Black. The father, who was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1795, reached a venerable age, passing away in 1887, while his wife, who was born in Pittsburg in 1796, was called to her final rest in 1856. In early life he was employed in the Squirrel Hill coal mine in Pennsylvania but, thinking to find better hhaneee opportunities in Ohio, he came to Ashland county in 1825 and purchased a farm of eighty acres. For many years thereafter he engaged continuously in agricultural pursuits and then about eight years prior to his demise sold his farm and bought a home at McKay where he lived retired throughout his remaining. days. As one of the early settlers he bore his full share in the work of pioneer development, aiding in reclaiming this region for the purposes of civilization and in laying the foundation for its present prosperity and progress. His family numbered eleven children, eight sons and three daughters: Samuel W.; Henry, who was born in 1836; Joseph C., in 1838; Louis in 1842; William; Phillip; John; Daniel; Katherine; Elizabeth; and Sarah.

No event of especial importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Samuel W. Black in his boyhood and youth. He was reared in this county when it was largely a frontier district and he assisted in the arduous task of developing the fields, taking his place at the plow at a very early age. He remained at home until seventeen years of age and then went to Loudonville, where he learned the trade of a baker and candy maker, serving a three years' apprenticeship in that line. At the end of that time he bought out his employer and continued in the business there for four years, after which he sold his establishment and purchased a claim of eighty acres. He was connected with agricultural pursuits, however, for only six months, going to Ashland where he rented a room and opened a bakery which he conducted for four and a half years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Loudonville where he again bought property but in 1865 he sold his farm and invested in realty in Ashland. Here he opened a bakery and confectionary business in which he continued for about thirty years, being recognized as one of the most enterprising and reliable merchants of the city. He was accorded a liberal patronage because of the excellence of the products which he handled, his reasonable prices and his reliable dealing. In all of his business transactions he was straightforward, never taking advantage of the necessities of another. He always attributed much of his success to the assistance of his wife.

It was in March, 1857, that Mr. Black was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Ullman, a daughter of John and Catherine Ullman, the former a farmer then residing near Loudonville. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Black have been born two sons: Henry Joseph, whose birth occurred February 15, 1858, and James Arthur, who was born July 15, 1868. They were both students in Ashland high school and the former continued his education at Greencastle College and entered the Methodist ministry in 1884, being assigned to a pastorate at Salt Lake City, Utah. He is now located at North Vernon, Indiana, and is doing good work. Henry Joseph Black was married in 1884 to Miss Hattie Bershing and they became the parents of three children, namely: Dr. H. Benton, Earl P. and Helen M. The last two are living at home and the Doctor is practicing dentistry in North Vernon. The younger son, James Arthur, who was engaged in dealing in stock food, died May 11, 1909. Mrs. Black employs much of her leisure time in painting and does very ereditable work in that art. Both Mr. and Mrs. Black hold membership in the Methodist church and are earnest Christian people, zealous in behalf of the church and all its activities.

~ In his political views Mr. Black is a republican and has ever kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day and served as a member of the city council for four years. He well merits the rest which has come to him following his long years of activity in business circles. As one of the early settlers of the county, having lived here for seventy-five years, his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. He has witnessed much of its transformation ag the forests have been cut down and the uncultivated lands have been changed into fertile fields while the cities have been developed through the establishment and successful control of many and varied business concerns. At all times he has borne his full share in the work of public progress, cooperating in many movements for the general good and both as a business man and citizen he has occupied a high place in the public regard.

George Arthur Cassel

George Arthur Cassel is not only known as one of the energetic and enterprising farmers of Orange township but is also active in those lines pertaining to the moral and political progress of the community. His influence is always on the side of right, reform and improvement and his labors have been no unessential element in the work of general advancement. He was born November 24, 1867, in the township where he still resides, his parents being George and Leah (Shopbell) Cassel. He was three years of age when he went to live with George H. and Catharine (Shopbell) Shidler of Orange township, on the farm which is now his home and where the family of his uncle had lived for sixty years. Mr. Shidler had come from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1843, following the arrival of his father, Peter Shidler, who had removed westward about six years before. The farm has remained in the possession of the family since that time. Mrs. Catharine Shidler, the aunt of Mr. Cassel, was the daughter of Jacob and Lydia (Ziegler) Shopbell, who arrived in Ashland county in 1832 from Berks county, Pennsylvania. They, too, settled in Orange township and became prominent representatives of the farming community. Mr. Shopbell lived to the very advanced age of ninety-six years, five months and seven days, passing away on the 6th of March, 1884. It was their daughter Catharine who became the wife of George Shidler. This worthy couple are yet living, Mr. Shidler having reached the advanced age of eighty-six years, while his wife is now seventy-five years of age. They are held in the highest esteem wherever known, their good qualities of heart and mind having won for them the friendship and regard of all with whom they have been brought in contact.

George A. Cassel, their nephew, was carefully reared, pursuing his early education in the district schools, and was afterward accorded the opportunity of attending the Savannah Academy and the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio, where he pursued a commercial and scientific course. He won the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1890 and following his graduation engaged in teaching in the home district for two years. While at Ada he had engaged in teaching penmanship in the commercial department, for he is a splendid scribe. Since 1892 he has been giving his attention to farming and his well tilled fields indicate his careful supervision and practical methods. Fences and buildings are kept

While business interests claim much of his time and attention, Mr. Cassel has never allowed agricultural pursuits to preclude his assistance in worthy public movements destined for the benefit of the community at large or the individual. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected him to the office of township clerk in 1900 and he has filled that office continuously since, his reelection being unmistakable proof of the able manner in which he discharges his duties and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow townsmen. He has also been a member of the school board for about eighteen years and was clerk of the board for eight years. The cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart champion and his efforts in its behalf have been far-reaching and beneficial. He is now and has been clerk of the township board of health, has frequently been a state delegate to the conventions of health boards and is greatly interested in the work. He is also a member of the executive committee of the Men's Federation and is indifferent to no movement which constitutes a feature in the progress of the community for better life and for higher thought. In his political views he is an earnest democrat and for some years was active in the work of the party but recently has given that up for other work. Both he and his wife are members of the church of the Brethren and take a most earnest and helpful part in its various activities. Mr. Cassel became connected therewith in December, 1905, and through the ensuing years his labors have been effective forces in promoting the growth and extending the influence of the church. He is now financial clerk of the church of Maple Grove and is also active in the Sunday school work, realizing how essential it is to impress upon the young an appreciation of the value of the religious life. He is now district secretary of the church of the Brethren of northeastern Ohio, covering twentyeight counties, and his labors in this connection demand much of his time. He is likewise the president of the Ashland County Sunday School Association to which he was elected in 1908, and for two years previously he was a member of the executive committee of the association and was a delegate to the twelfth international Sunday school convention held in Louisville, Kentucky, in June, 1908. Two years before he had been a county delegate to the state Sunday school convention. He is likewise agent for the German Baptist Mutual Insurance Association. He was chosen for a three years' term a member of the county board of visitors, and thus his activities reach out into many lines. He is also a director of the Ashland Young Men's Christian Association which he joined on its organization in 1905, and in this as well as in other lines he ig an active, earnest, zealous and effective worker.

On the 6th of December, 1894, Mr. Cassel was united in marriage to Miss Clara L. Stone, a daughter of Isaac E. and Margaret (Harris) Stone, of Ashland, where her father engaged in business for some years and was well known as a representative merchant. Both parents are natives of Ashland county and they have always lived in the city of Ashland with the exception of eight years spent in Crestline, Ohio. Mrs. Cassel is in hearty sympathy with her husband in all _ of his church work, is a teacher and assistant superintendent in the Sunday school which had an average attendance of one hundred and forty for the year 1908.

She is also superintendent of the home department work, is president of the Ladies' Aid Society and does her full share in all of the church work. Mr. and Mrs. Cassel are honored and respected by all, not because of the success they have achieved but because of the active and helpful part which they have taken in those lines which work for character development and for the good of the community at large. They stand for high ideals of Christian citizenship and in their daily lives manifest their faith and belief.

Loren Elza Heifner

Loren Elza Heifner makes his home on one of the fine farms of Orange township, comprising one hundred and ten acres. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits and stock raising which, however, is but one branch of his business, for since 1892 he has traveled as a representative of two commercial houses, being now connected with the F. E. Myers Company. He was born November 4, 1861, in Orange township, and is a son of John and Margaret (Cline) Heifner. When five years of age the father came to Ohio with his father, Frederick Heifner, from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Jonas Cline, the maternal grandfather, was also one of the early settlers, and thus in both lines the subject of this review is descended from two of the old families of the county whose members have been prominent in promoting the work of general improvement and progress as the years have gone by. The Heifner family was established in Orange township while the Cline family settled in Montgomery township, and Mr. Cline followed both blacksmithing and farming. John Heifner was a shingle maker and farmer, and was recognized as an expert in the former line, making as high as a thousand shingles a day. Energy and enterprise were among his marked characteristics and he possessed a determined spirit that enabled him to accomplish whatever he undertook. He died in 1895 at the age of eighty-three years, while his wife has also passed away. They were the parents of fourteen children, Eliza, Henry, Hyman and Mary, all now deceased, Jesse, Jennie, Lydia, John and Loren K. and five who died in infancy.

On the old home farm of his father Loren E. Heifner was reared and the district schools of the neighborhood afforded him his educational privileges. In early manhood he engaged in teaching for a few terms and did excellent work in that connection. He was about seventeen years of age when he began to learn the machinist's trade in the shops of the Cowan Pump Company, and for a few years he was employed in that capacity, but when about twenty-one years of age he returned to the home farm. At one time he was employed in a small mill but through an accident lost a finger and then turned his attention to telegraphy. For eight years he was connected with the Erie Railroad Company as an operator, at the end of which time he resigned and entered the services of the F. E. Myers Company as traveling salesman, having the entire state of Illinois as his territory for ten years. He developed the entire state and has been with the company continuously since, except for a brief period when he represented the Red Jacket Manufacturing Company with Ohio as his territory.

He has made substantial progress since starting out in the business world for himself and has ever been found reliable, energetic and diligent.

On the 3d of July, 1888, Mr. Heifner was united in marriage to Miss Laura D. McGuire, a daughter of George W. and Fanny (Carpenter) McGuire, of Fulton county, Illinois. Unto them have been born seven children: Lovie F., who is engaged in teaching in Sullivan; Cloyd M., who follows farming; Fanny L., who is attending high school in Mansfield; Lydia A.; Eliza M.; Jennie M.; and Laura Daisy. Both Mr. and Mrs. Heifner are members of the Reformed church, in the work of which he has taken an active and helpful part. He served for some years as deacon and was then elected elder, which position he has filled for a number of years. He has also been an earnest and effective worker in the Sunday school, in which he has served as teacher and chorister. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and he takes an active interest in the work of the party. He believes in good roads, the employment of competent teachers and the utilization of progressive ideas in school work. In fact he favors all public improvement and stands for continued and substantial advancement. He has never sought nor desired public office, however, but gives the weight of his influence on behalf of justice, reform and improvement. He belongs to Wadsworth Lodge, No. 119, I: O. O. F. and to the Iowa Traveling Men's Association, and to the Illinois Commercial Men's Association. Wherever he goes he wins friends because of a genial disposition, deference for the opinions of others and a kindly spirit, combined with the substantial qualities of perseverance and industry which insures success in business life. Aside from his commercial interests he is the owner of one hundred and ten acres of fine land on which he carries on general farming and also stock raising, making a specialty of pure blooded Jersey cattle. In this line he is meeting with success and is recognized as one of the representative business men of his community.

Emerson L. Leidigh

Well known among prominent pioneer families of the county is the one of which Emerson L. Leidigh is a representative. He was born September 2, 1863, on the farm which is now his home. He has always resided here and the place of one hundred and sixty-four acres covers the northwest corner of section 29, Mohican township. His parents were Levi and Mary Elizabeth (Snyder) Leidigh. The father was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, on the 9th of February, 1819, and he traveled life's journey until the 19th of July, 1887, when he passed away in Mohican township. He came with his parents from Pennsylvania to Ohio when sixteen years of age, settling first at Jeromeville and his remaining days were passed as a farmer in Mohican township. He owned one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 29, and was also the owner of one hundred and eight acres in Green township. Year by year he carefully tilled his fields and carried on the farm work until his labors brought to him substantial suecess. His political allegiance was given to the democratic party and he was a member of the Reformed church of Mohicanville. He was a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Butt) Leidigh, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, and spent their last days in Ashland county. It was on the 12th of April, 1860, that Levi Leidigh wedded Miss Mary Elizabeth Snyder, who was born April 16, 1838, about a mile west of McKay, her parents being David and Mary (McMannis) Snyder.

Emerson L. Leidigh, whose name introduces this review, has always resided upon the farm which is now his home. His boyhood days were devoted to the acquirement of an education in the public schools and to the work of the farm, alternating with the pleasures in which youths of the period indulged. As he attained manhood he determined to devote his life to general agricultural pursuits and, remaining on the old homestead, is now engaged in the cultivation and improvement of a good tract of land of one hundred and sixty-four acres on section 29, Mohican township. It is supplied with all of the equipments and accessories of the model farm of the twentieth century. There is a large barn upon it eighty-four by one hundred feet. In fact this is one of the largest in the county and furnishes ample shelter for hay and also for a large number of stock. It is forty-eight feet to the highest point and has no equal in this respect in the county. It was built by Mr. Leidigh in the spring of 1906. The residence was erected by the father and was remodeled by Emerson L. Leidigh and contains eleven rooms, being one of the fine homes of the county. The place is appropriately named the Fairview Stock Farm, for upon it he raises high grade stock of all kinds, this department of his business constituting an important element in his success.

On the 19th of April, 1894, Mr. Leidigh was united in marriage to Miss Arbie Hoatman, who was born in Jeromeville on the 2d of July, 1876, and is a daughter of John J. and Minerva (Bunyon) Hoatman. Mr. and Mrs. Leidigh now have one son, Ralph E., who was born January 2, 1896. In his political views the father is a democrat, giving stanch and unfaltering support to the principles of the party. He is an alert, enterprising business man, readily recognizing and utilizing opportunities and winning his success through honorable and persistent effort.

John Obrecht

John Obrecht is well known as a successful general farmer and stock raiser, handling thoroughbred cattle and sheep. He was born in Sweidraheim, Alsace, Germany, May 7, 1872, and arrived in Loudonville, Ohio, with his parents on the 30th of October, 1881. He is a son of Jacob and Mary (Jacobs) Obrecht, who were also natives of Alsace. The mother died in Lake township, this county, in August, 1885, at the age of thirty-eight vears, and about ten years ago the father returned to Germany and now makes his home in Strassburg. In their family were five children: Jacob, a resident of Missouri; John, of this review; Mary, the wife of Albert Fry, of Canton, Ohio; Maggie, also living in Canton; and Edward, who resides in Vermillion township.

John Obrecht was a lad of nine years at the time of the emigration of the family to the new world. They lived for a year and a half in Loudonville and then removed to a small farm in Lake township. Mr. Obrecht of this review afterward worked out by the month as a farm hand until the time of his marriage in 1890, after which he engaged in farming on the shares for eleven years. At length he purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Lake township and eventually sold that property and in 1904 purchased his present farm, comprising one hundred and twelve acres on section 31, Vermillion township. This is about four miles south of Hayesville and six miles north of Loudonville on the Loudonville and Hayesville road. It is a well improved property, supplied with good buildings. Here he carries on general agricultural pursuits, placing his fields under a high state of cultivation and he also raises considerable stock. He has on hand some thoroughbred Shropshire sheep and four registered Durham cows.

Mr. Obrecht was united in marriage to Miss Minnie B. Garst, who was born in Lake township, July 24, 1871, and is a daughter of William and Caroline (Windbigler) Garst. Mr. and Mrs. Obrecht now have four children: Zella, the wife of D. S. Hissem, of Vermillion township; Iba; Glenn; and Ruth. The family are identified with the German Reformed church of Mohican and Mr. Obrecht gives his political allegiance to the democracy. He has always remained a resident of Ashland county since coming to the new world and is one of the worthy citizens of foreign birth who, thoroughly imbued with the spirit of American liberty and in sympathy with republican institutions, is active in his championship of everything relating to public progress here.

Thomas H. Beattie

Thomas H. Beattie, mayor of Savannah, and one of the most popular men of the county, prominent in local affairs, was born January 28, 1861, in Butler township, Richland county, and is the son of James and Susanna (Bryte) Beattie. The grandparents came to America from Aberdeenshire, Scotland, with all the members of their family excepting James who, then in his fifteenth year, was bound out to a merchant and could not leave his native land but later joined the family when they had been in this country about two years. The family located in Richland county, where James Beattie was united in marriage and taught school until 1863, when he removed to Pioneer, Williams county, this state, there engaging in the mercantile business. Later he removed to Hilisdale county, Michigan, where he took up farming. Of that county James Beattie, was elected treasurer, the duties of which office he efficiently performed for four years. His death occurred September 15, 1900, while his wife entered into rest September 15, 1885.

The early days of Thomas H. Beattie were spent in assisting his father in the duties of the farm and while engaged in husbandry he availed himself of the educational advantages of the district schools and when he was seventeen 'years of age left home and came to Ashland county, where he worked on a farm for his uncle, Thomas Bryte, in Clear Creek township, at the same time attending school at Pioneer, Williams county. After completing his education he followed the profession of teaching until he was twenty-one years of age, at which period of his life he settled down to husbandry, and for fourteen years rented his uncle's farm, which consists of one hundred and sixty- six acres, which he later purhased and of which he is now the owner. His farm is highly improved, well drained and continually under a high state of cultivation and constitutes one of the best tracts of land for general agricultural purposes in this portion of the county. In addition to producing hay and the various grains he takes an interest in stock raising, making a specialty of stock feeding, which has become one of the most lucrative departments of his business. He pursued his occupation with unremitting energy until 1903, when he removed with his family to the village of Savannah, where he has since been practically retired although he has not entirely given up his activities referential to his farm but still superintends the various departments of that work.

On December 25, 1890, Mr. Beattie wedded Miss Emma Plank, daughter of Levi and Margaret (Filson) Plank, of Montgomery township, her parents having come from Laneaster county, Pennsylvania, immediately upon their marriage, bringing with them all their belongings. Her father was a prosperous farmer who met with such success as to finally become an extensive landowner. He and his wife passed away some years ago. To Mr. and Mrs. Beattie have been born two children, namely: Beatrice and Donald. Although Mr. Beattie has been a very busy man, with the affairs of his various anterprises, vet he has found time to devote to public matters since he considers it the duty of every individual to take an interest in all things pertaining to the weal of the commonwealth. He has rendered the township a number of useful services, having for a period of six years performed the duties of township trustee and he has also served efficiently for a number of terms as a member of the board of education. His excellent administrative qualifications are well known throughout the community, and in 1904 he was elected mayor of Savannah, since which time he has served continuously in a most efficient manucr in performing the duties of that honorable office. He has done much toward stimulating civie pride and has been instrumental in securing many much needed public improvements such as sidewalks and better streets so that at the present period the village of Savannah is in many respects in these lines the superior of any town of its size in this state. Politically Mr. Beattie is a republican, always loyal to the candidates of his party. Aside from his: business and political interests he also espouses the cause of education, is a member of the board of trustees of Savannah Academy and all matters pertaining to educational interests command his hearty support. Together with the members of his family he attends divine services at the church of the Disciples of Christ, is active in its affairs and is a large contributor toward the several departments of church endeavor. In every sense of the word Mr. Beattie is a man of affairs, superintending his large farm, taking an interest in public concerns and also, in connection with admirably performing the duties of his office as mayor, he is active in the financial affairs of the Ashland Savings Bank, of which he is a stockholder. His conservative business judgment is recognized throughout the community and his opinions are frequently sought in financial and commercial matters and, on account of his wide experience and excellent success, they generally carry much weight. He owns an elegant residence in the village which is large and modern in its appointments and here he makes his home surrounded by everything conducive to pleasant life.

Morenzo C. Ross

Morenzo C. Ross, energetically and successfully carrying on general farming and stock raising on his place of one hundred and four acres in Orange township, was born in Blue Earth county, Minnesota, on the 22d of September, 1861. His parents, John and Catherine (Bird) Ross, were natives of Holmes county, Ohio, but removed to Minnesota in the early days of its development, the father, who was a carpenter by trade, being attracted to the new country by reason of the great opportunities offered for work as a builder. They took up their abode in the vicinity where afterward occurred one of the most horrible Indian massacres on record and on one occasion they were driven from their home, being obliged to hide themselves in the surrounding woods and thickets for two weeks. In 1865 they returned to Ohio, first locating in Montgomery township, Ashland county, and afterward coming to Orange township, where they continued to reside until they passed away, the father following carpentering and also engaging in farming to some extent. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ross are still kindly remembered by many who knew them, being people of many excellent traits of character and winning the warm regard and esteem of those with whom they were associated.

Morenzo C. Ross supplemented his preliminary education, acquired in the district schools, by a course of study at Smithville Academy and at Ashland College. Subsequently he was engaged in teaching for three years, imparting clearly and readily to others the knowledge that he had acquired and winning wide recognition as a successful and progressive educator. When twenty-two years of age he was married and brought his young bride to the farm which has since remained their home with the exception of the years 1896 and 1897, when t ey resided in Ashland, Mr. Ross being there engaged in the hardware. business. On severing his connection with that line of activity he returned to his farm of one hundred and four acres in Orange township and has since devoted his attention to the pursuits of general farming and stock raising with well merited success. His land is admirably adapted to the raising of potatoes, to which he gives especial attention. The farm is well watered and improved, presenting in its neat and thrifty appearance the supervision of a practical and progressive owner.

On the 16th of February, 1884, Mr. Ross was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Saddler, a daughter of Rev. William and Emeline (Wolfe) Saddler, of Orange township, the father being the pastor of Maple Grove church of the Dunkard faith for a number of years. The church is among the earliest in most substantial citizens of the community holding membership therein. Rev. Saddler died some years ago but his memory is still cherished by those with whom he came in contact and many whose lives he helped to brighten and uplift. His widow still survives. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ross have been born four sons: Frank E., Walter, Ray and Harold.

Mr. Ross gives his political allegiance to the democracy and has been eallea by his fellow townsmen to various positions of public trust and responsibility. He has been township trustee for two terms, has acted as a member of the board of education and in 1903 was chosen justice of the peace for Orange township, in which position he has continued to the present time, his decisions being ever fair and impartial.. He has also frequently been a delegate to county, district and state conventions and is a public-spirited citizen whose aid and influence can be counted upon in any movement or measure instituted to advance the general welfare. In citizenship, in public office, in home and social life, he is a man worthy of the confidence and good will which are uniformly tendered him.

George C. McConnell, who is now living a retired life after having been identified with the farming and stock-raising interests of Sullivan township for a number of years, is a native of Jackson township, where his birth occurred August 2, 1841, and a son of Thomas and Margaret (Miller) McConnell, his father having been a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, and his mother of Baltimore, Maryland. Both came to Ohio with their parents, in 1833, and settled in Orange township. Both families made the journey by wagon and on horseback, bringing along the family cow, which was one of the most important accessories to their wagon train. The entire country was then in a primitive state, being thickly covered with woodland, and upon their arrival here their first work was the erection of a log cabin. After providing this shelter they at once began clearing off the land, cutting roads through the forests, bridging the swamps and marshes, and in constructing such buildings on their property as were necessary to the agriculturist. They were an industrious and enterprising people, who, being ambitious to succeed, worked with untiring energy and from year to year increased their prosperity until they became extensive landowners and were numbered among the influential and substantial farmers of the county. Thomas McConnell was well known as a breeder of fine stock and particularly of sheep. | His sturdy qualities of character enabled him to wield a strong influence for good in the community. He departed this life in March, 1876, his wife surviving him thirty years, her death occurring in August, 1906. In their family were two sons and three daughters, namely: George C.; Thomas M., who served during the Civil war in Company B., One Hundred and Seventyeighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and lost his life in the service; Rachel, who became the wife of Cromwell Marsh, residing in the state of Washington; and

In the district schools of the county, George C. McConnell acquired his education and there enjoyed many happy experiences which his memory still retains, and to which he delights to revert.

He recalls with pleasure the fact that he was one among the boys who were chosen to stand guard at the schoolhouse door for the purpose of keeping out the snakes. | While they were of a harmless variety their presence was not wanted by the schoolmaster as they were a means of doing anything but preserving the good behavior of the pupils and in order that the reptiles might be kept within their own territory, it was customary to have the older boys take turns in standing at the doorway to prevent them from entering. He had not long completed his studies when the Civil war broke out, and in 1861, at the first call for volunteers, he enlisted in Company B, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which regiment he served three months. He participated in the first battle of the war which took place at Philippi, West Virginia, and after the engagement he assisted the surgeon of the regiment in the first operation performed upon a wounded Confederate soldier who had been taken prisoner. On the 5th of October, 1862, he reenlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered out in June, 1865, as second lieutenant. His regiment participated in some of the hardest fought battles of the war, and at Decatur, Alabama, in October, 1864, he was struck by a piece of shell and twice by bullets from sharpshooters, both bullets having been fired within a few minutes of each other and striking him almost in the same place, but as the bullets had come from a great distance and had practically lost most of their force they did little damage.

After the war Mr. McConnell engaged in farming and the dairy business in Jackson township, where he remained for five years, his first dwelling house being a log cabin. He then removed to this township December 2, 1885, and located on the farm he now cultivates. In 1894 he took up the grain and elevator business in the village of Sullivan, and for the subsequent five years handled a large trade in hay and grain, at the same time cultivating his farm and attending to his dairy and stock interests. Since the year 1899 he has continued to live on his farm but has withdrawn from active life and does little but superintend his farm work and take care of his financial interests. His farm contains three hundred and twenty-five acres of excellent land, all of which is highly improved and well drained. It is provided with a comfortable home, substantial barns and outbuildings, with every rod of fencing in excellent repair, and in fact the premises are equipped with every convenience with which to make his farm thoroughly modern.

On February 12, 1865, while at home as a recruiting officer, Mr. McConnell was united in marriage to Miss Charlotta Whitcomb, daughter of Horace and Jane (Toms) Whitcomb, her father having been a native of Vermont and her mother of Auburn, New York. Mr. Whitcomb came to Sullivan township in 1835, preceding his wife by three years, and here he followed general farming and stock raising until his death, in June, 1886. His wife departed this life March 19, 1905. To Mr. and Mrs. McConnell have been born five children, namely: Thomas H., deceased; Horace E., of Milford Center, this state; Curtis M., of

Mr. McConnell is a democrat and has taken an active part in politics and frequently officiated as delegate to county, district and state conventions. His intelligence and good judgment, together with his knowledge of public affairs, have made him very useful in the community and he has served twelve years as township trustee and for many years as a member of the board of education. He has always been an advocate of public improvements and foremost among those in favor of promoting every movement having for its object better roads and a better school system. Mr. McConnell is a comrade of Fuller Smith Post, No. 356, G. A. R., of which he has been commander for thirteen years and the organization has made him a delegate to almost every state and national encampment. Amid all his business affairs and various experiences he has always found time to perform his religious obligations and attends divine services at the Congregational church, of which he and his family are members and liberal supporters. Tle is very fond of travel in which he finds entertainment and recreation and has ample means with which to gratify his longings. Mr. McConnell is one of the most highly respected men of the community and a man whose association is both pleasurable and instructive and his home is known throughout the county for both its culture and hospitality.

L. C. Galloway

The home farm of L. C. Galloway is pleasantly located about a half mile northwest of Mohicanville, and comprises the northwest quarter of section 32, Mohican township. - His residence is a good brick dwelling and the enterprise and energy which he has displayed in his business affairs has enabled him to provide comfortably for his family. He is numbered among the substantial residents of this part of the state, placing his dependence upon indefatigable energy and constant watchfulness in his efforts to acquire a competence.

Ihis birth occurred in Vermillion township, this county, on the 11th of December, 1856, his parents being William G. and Ann (Bradley) Galloway. The father was a native of Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and in early life came to Ashland county with his parents, who settled in Vermillion township. The grandfather of our subject was also a native of the Keystone state and was of Scotch descent, five brothers of the family coming from Scotland to America in colonial days. The grandfather, thinking to have better opportunities to provide a good home for his family on the frontier, removed westward to Ohio and, as much of the land was-still in possession of the government he entered a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, comprising a quarter section in Vermillion township. There he made his home throughout his remaining days and prospering as the years went by he purchased another quarter section of land lying in Green township. With characteristic energy he began the development of his farm, performing all the arduous labor incident to the transformation of a forest tract into cultivable fields. His family numbered seven children, Thomas, William, James, Joseph, Jane, Elizabeth and Sarah.

William G. Galloway, the father of our subject, assisted materially in the improvement.of the new farm, cutting down the trees grubbing up the stumps, burning the brush and turning the first furrows. The work of plowing and planting was then carried on and in course of time the result was entirely satisfactory, for the rich soil of Ohio brought forth substantial crops. In community affairs he was also active and served as justice of the peace for many years. He was likewise infirmary director for two terms and in all public interests displayed a loyalty to the general welfare that was most commendable. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and his opinions bore considerable weight in the local councils of his party. Having arrived at years of maturity, he married Ann Bradley, a native of Maine, who was brought by her widowed mother to Ashland county at the age of six years. She had two brothers: James, who resided in Green township throughout his entire life; and John, who drove with a threshing machine to Tama county, Iowa, and spent his remaining days in that locality. The father died in 1880 and the mother passed away December 5, 1877. In their family were five children: Mary Jane, the deceased wife of Albert Shoup; Joseph, who married Jane Brubaker, and both are now deceased; Nancy, who is the widow of Albert Carroll and resides in Vermillion township ; Margaret, the deceased wife of Jasper Carns; and L. C., of this review.

L. C. Galloway remained in Vermillion township until twenty-two years of age, attending school and working on the farm. He then began work as a railroad section man, in which capacity he was employed for a short time and later worked by the month for James Humphrey, as a farm hand. He was thus employed for four years at the end of which time his father passed away and he began farming for himself on the old homestead. At the age of thirty years he was married and for a year thereafter lived upon the Crown farm. In 1888, he came to his present farm, where he has resided continuously since. The place comprises one hundred and sixty acres, which was formerly the property of his father-in-law, Henry Wachtel, whose widow resides with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. This is a well improved farm, supplied with good buildings. | Upon the place is a large bank barn, seventy by forty feet, with other commodious outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock. It is a pleasant location within a half mile of Mohicanville, enables him to secure all of the advantages afforded by the town and at the same time enjoy the opportunities of rural life. In addition to this property Mr. Galloway owns one hundred and sixty acres in Vermillion township, just south of Hayesville, which is operated on shares.

On the 27th of October, 1887, Mr. Galloway was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Wachtel, who was born in Mohicanville in 1866, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Helbert) Wachtel. The mother was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1828, and when six years of age came to this county with her paon ts Mention of the Helbert family is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert, on another page of this work. The father, Henry Wachtel, was born June 16, 1829, in Wayne county, Ohio, and died in Mohicanville, December. 25, 1889. He was only two years of age when his mother died and his father afterward removed to Mohican township, Ashland county, where his remaining days were spent. Henry Wachtel also continued a lifelong resident of Mohican township and was prominent in business circles, conducting a general store in Mohicanville for twenty-six years. He also had a store in Shreve for six and a half years and was interested in a store in Perrysville, the extent of his business affairs making him one of the prominent and influential residents of this part of the state. He also was at one time the owner of the farm on which Mr. Galloway resides. He married Sarah Helbert, who still survives her husband and is now living with Mr. and Mrs. Galloway. Their children were seven in number: Mrs. Mary Humphrey, who died at the age of thirty-two years, leaving two daughters; Jacob Milo, who died in childhood; John Willis, who died in July, 1907, leaving a widow and three children ; George Edmond, who is a widower and has two children, their home being in Toledo, Ohio; one who died in infancy; Mrs. Galloway; and Charles Henry, who died at the age of two years and ten months.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Galloway was blessed with one son, Glenn W., who was born August 23, 1891, on the farm where he is still living with his parents. Both Mr. and Mrs. Galloway are representatives of old and well known families of this part of the state and are highly esteemed in the community where they live. Their influence is always on the side of progress and improvement and their labors have been effective in promoting the general welfare. Mr. Galloway is well known as one of the leading agriculturists of this part of the county, manifesting a spirit of undaunted progress in all that he does, while at all times his labors are practical, winning substantial results.

R. L. Glenn

R. L. Glenn, of Ashland a member of the firm of Reep & Glenn, liverymen, was born in Green township, Ashland county, November 18, 1853. His grandfathers, Joshua Glenn and William Ewing, early settlers of this county, located in Mohican township, where they spent their lives in the pursuit of agriculture. He is a son of William and Caroline (Ewing) Glenn, both natives of this county. Mr. Glenn during his career engaged in farming at different times in Green Milton, Montgomery, Vermillion and Mohican townships, his latter years best spent in the last named place, where he passed away February 17 gOS:

Upon his father's farm during his boyhood days, R. L. Glenn passed through the usual experiences common to the country lad, in the summer months engaging in the daily routine of agricultural life and in the winter segs education in the public schools, remaining at home until he was united in marriage, all the while assisting his father. In 1876, he left home and started to farm for himself, locating on a tract of land owned by his father in Vermillion township, where he remained until 1883 when he removed to a farm in Milton township. That tract of land was also the possession of his father and tees he remained for thirteen years, at the termination of which time he returned to Vermillion township, where he pursued agriculture for three years and then moved to Jeromeville, this county, where he established himself in the hotel and livery business, continuing in it until 1907, when he came to this city and for a time engaged in buying and selling horses. He also worked for about eight months in the Erie freight depot and on August 7, 1908, he purchased the interest of Mr. Roberts of the firm of Reep & Roberts, liverymen, and has since been an active partner in the enterprise, the company being now known as that of Reep & Glenn.

Mr. Glenn wedded Phoebe E. Carr, of Vermillion township, by whom he has one son, James W., a graduate of Jeromeville high school, who resides at home with his parents. Mr. Glenn votes the republican ticket and his interest in local affairs is made manifest by the fact that he served for a number of terms on the school board in Jeromeville and has also officiated in a number of other minor offices. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 154, K. P., in which he is well known for his activity and, being a man of strong character and excellent business acumen, whose enterprise and industry have not only brought him prosperity but also enabled him to appreciably enhance the commercial worth of the city, he merits the reputation he bears as one of its leading business men.

There is no profession so lttle commercialized as the practice of medicine and surgery. This is manifest in the fact that the medical fraternity are continually giving to the public facts concerning the best methods of preventing 'as well as checking disease and are continually laboring to bring about conditions which will promote the general healthfulness. Dr. Sherick stands as a high type of the conscientious, able physician whose careful diagnosis and well applied skill have made him a forceful factor in the line of activity which he has chosen as a life work. A native of Ashland county, Ohio, he was born on the 19th of June, 1856, and was the fifth in the family of David and Susan (Jacobs) Sherick. Six of their children are still living. The father was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1823 and is now living in Seneca county, Ohio. He was for many years identified with farming interests but has now reached the age of eighty-five years and has retired from active participation in agricultural lines. His wife passed away in 1863.

On the old homestead farm Dr. Sherick was reared and when he had become of sufficient age he assisted his father in the work of the fields through the summer months, while in the district schools he acquired his education in the winter seasons. When about sixteen years of age he became a student in the Burbank Academy, where he remained for one year, after which he spent two years in study at Lodi, Ohio, and a year and a half in Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio. During the summer months he assisted his father on the farm. Dr. Schuyler, who was then president of Baldwin University, watched Dr. Sherick working out a problem on the blackboard one day and at length said, "Stick to it, young man, and you will come out all right;'' for the perseverance which he displayed caused Dr. Schuyler to realize that there was in him a force of character that would enable him to overcome greater difficulties and obstacles in later years. The same quality has characterized his entire life and given him high standing in his profession. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as his life work, he entered the Toledo Medical School, connected with St. Vincent's Iospital, and was the first to matriculate in this school. After remaining there for six months he entered the Bellevue Hospital Medical College of New York, from which he was graduated in due time, after which he devoted his time and energies to general practice for about thirteen years. He then ~pursued a four months' course in a post-graduate hospital of New York and about six years later again spent six months in the post-graduate hospital of New York. He likewise continued his studies in the post-graduate hospital in Chicago and in July, 1908, entered upon a course in Berlin, Germany, where he carried on his investigations for six months. During that time he received special instruction from Professors Bumm and Kramer in clinical work pertaining to gynecology and operative surgery. He was also connected with the Bier clinic, where he spent five months in surgical diagnosis and operative surgery. He likewise spent three months in connection with Professor Halley in the study of diseases of the nose, throat and ear and in addition to all this he pursued a course in cystoscopy under Professor Frank. He returned to America with a mind greatly enriched with the knowledge that he had gained abroad and thus with renewed ability, energy and zeal he resumed his life work. He again reached the United States on the Ist of March, 1909. While abroad he had also visited the Rotter Hospital, a Catholic: institution, and saw many operations by Professor Israel and Professor Crowser. He likewise witnessed a number of operations in Ewald Hospital on the intestines and on the brain and visited Professor Auldhousen's hospital and clinic, where much surgical work was done in his presence. He is regarded today as one of the learned representatives of the profession in Ohio, his ability carrying him into important relations in his chosen field of labor. While he continues in the general practice of medicine, he is yet well versed in several special lines and his ability is evidenced in the splendid success which attends his labors. In addition to his professional interests Dr. Sherick is a stockholder in the Reliable match factory of Ashland and in the Ashland Steel Range Company.

In 1883 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Sherick and Miss Ruth Thomas who was born in this county and is the daughter of Peter Thomas, Sr. They have two sons, Charles T. and Clyde C. The elder, after completing a course in the Ashland high school, entered the high school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he remained for three years and is now in business in this city, being one of the stockholders of the Reliable match factory. Clyde C. Sherick was educated in the Ashland high school and the Ohio State University, where he pursued a four years' course and was graduated with the Bachelor of Arts degree, while in June, 1910, he will complete the course of law in that institution. He is much in advance of his class now, with a grade averaging from ninety-six to ninety-eight. Both sons are bright young men who have done excellent work in school and of whom the parents have every reason to be proud.

Mrs. Sherick holds membership in the Disciple church and the Doctor is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows; the Ashland County Medical Society, of which he is serving as president; Fifth District Medical Society; Ohio State Medical Society; and the American Medical Association; while his political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has made continuous progress in his profession, holding to high ideals in all of his work and the value of his service is widely recognized, not only by the general public but by the profession as well.

William Hess

Willam Hess, whose life of usefulness and activity was terminated on the 27th of March, 1909, was for many years numbered among the representative substantial and public-spirited citizens of Ashland county. He was born in Fayette county, Pénnsylvania, March 13, 1848, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Flack) Hess. When but five years of age he accompanied his parents on their removal from the Keystone state to Ohio, the family home being established on a farm in Jackson township, Ashland county. On that farm William Hess

'grew to manhood, was married, reared a family and spent the remainder of his life, covering a period of more than fifty-six years. In his agricultural interests he met with a gratifying and well merited measure of success, being widely recognized as a most prosperous and influential citizen.

On the 29th of October, 1868, Mr. Hess was united in marriage to Miss Lydiann Shopbell, a daughter of Jacob and Lydiann (Sigler) Shopbell, her girlhood home being the old Shopbell farm near Leidigh's Mill in Orange township, one of the landmarks in Ashland county. Hight children were born unto them, as follows: Mrs. Henry Switzer, of Orange township; Elizabeth, who died at the age of two years; James, a resident of Polk; Vinnie, who died when but six years of age; Almeda, who became the wife of Roscoe Emmons and was called to her final rest November 15, 1901; Franklin, who died in infancy; Leroy, at home; and Mrs. Ray Kopp, of Orange township. For four decades Mr. and Mrs. Hess traveled life's journey together and shared with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years went by. Mr. Hess is survived by two sisters, namely: Mrs. Susan Jacobs, of Lattasburg; and Mrs. Lucy Myers, of Fredonia, Kansas.

In his political affiliation Mr. Hess was a stanch democrat, never wavering in his allegiance to the party in the slightest degree. One of the local papers, in a review of his life, said: ''In every campaign he was the embodiment of enthusiasm and energy. A firm believer in the party primary, he believed the party should make its fight there and then support the successful candidates at the general election. Nobody ever accused William Hess of being a 'sorehead' or being disgruntled or of treachery. His unswerving loyalty was for a generation taken as a matter of course. At the time of his death he was central committeeman from Jackson township, an office he had held for years. In every county,

- named to assess candidates. No matter who the other members might happen to be, William Hess of Jackson township was always sure to be one. He was always regarded as the soul of honor. In 1890 he was elected county commissioner, taking his office January 1, 1891. He held the position for two terms, or six years, and that was all he ever asked of the party he had served so long and faithfully. A good many men in polities only work for themselves. lt they win an office that ends their party service. If they fail they become disheartened and disinterested. Not so with William Hess. He always worked, in every campaign, for others. It is doubtful if there is a man in the county, in 'either party, who has done as much work, gratis, for others as he did during the last quarter of a century. Nowhere outside the home circle will he be missed more than in the councils of his party.'' In his death the county lost one of its most respected, honored and useful citizens, his associates a kind and helpful friend and his family a loving husband and indulgent father.

John E. Shopbell

Among the enterprising and progressive farmers of Orange township is numbered John E. Shopbell, who owns and cultivates an excellent farm of one hundred and seventy-four acres which constitutes one of the best improved properties of the locality. He is also a representative of one of the most prominent pioneer families of Ashland county. The ancestry of the Shopbells can be traced back to the time of the persecution of the Huguenots in France. the great-great-grandparents of Shopbell having been beheaded because of their religious belief, while their bodies were thrown into the River Seine. Their son, Eberhart Shopbell, was a witness to the horrible fate of his parents, but managed to escape and made his way to America with eight companions, becoming the founder of the family on the soil of the new world. He located in Pennsylvania where the family lived for some time. His son, Daniel Shopbell. the grandfather of John E. Shopbell, espoused the cause of the colonists at the time of the Revolutionary war and served for several years under General Washington, thus giving valuable aid to the cause of liberty. With his family he afterward removed to Ashland county, Ohio, and since that time the Shopbells have resided in this part of the state. He was prominent in the early affairs of the county, active in its development and helpful in establishing its political, legal and moral status. His son, Samuel Shopbell, was also very prominent here, taking an active part in many progressive public movements, while in the private interests of life he followed farming and became an extensive land owner and dealer in stock. He married Sophia Cassel, also a representative of one of the old and prominent famihes of the county. They became the parents of seven children: Jacob, Margaret, Sarah, Alice, Sophena, John E., and Ada. Both the oldest and youngest are now deceased. The father passed away March 14, 1908, at the venerable age of ninety-eight years, a life of usefulness, activity and honor being thus ended. He had for almost three years survived his wife who died June 4, 1905.

Samuel Shopbell

John E. Shopbell spent his youth upon his father's farm and is indebted to the district schools of his native township for the educational privileges he received. His youth passed in the manner of most farmer boys, quietly and uneventfully, and yet he formed habits which have borne rich fruit in his later years, making him a substantial and a successful citizen. Having arrived at years of maturity, he was married on November 25, 1888, to Miss Nettie B. Lindsay, a daughter of Robert and Mary (Gibb) Lindsay, who were a prominent family of Ruggles township. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shopbell has been born one son, Clifford D.

Following his marriage Mr. Shopbell engaged in farming in Huron county, Ohio, for two years, and then removed to Clear Creek township, in Ashland county, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for seven years. On the expiration of that period he came to his present farm in Orange township, in 1902. Here he has one hundred and seventy-four acres of land that is rich and arable and through his careful cultivation he has been enabled to gather abundant crops annually. He engages in general farming and in stock raising and is recognized as one of the most prominent and progressive agriculturists of the county. He uses the latest improved machinery to facilitate the work of the fields and his capable management of his business affairs has brought to him gratifying and substantial success.

In public affairs Mr. Shopbell is also actuated by a spirit of advancement and enterprise, and cooperates in the various movements put forth for the welfare and upbuilding of the county. He is a member of the township board of education and a true friend and champion of the public schools. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist church and are interested in every effort to advance moral progress and higher citizenship. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and while he does not seek office he desires the adoption of those principles which he deems will prove of greatest good to the community and country at large.

Perry C. Moffett

Perry C. Moffett, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, was born in Lee township, Monroe county, Ohio, on the 25th of December, 1856, his parents being Francis and Hannah E. (Mitchell) Moffett, both of whom are now deceased. The father was a sailor in early life but afterward gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits.

In the acquirement of an education Perry C. Moffett attended the district schools of his native county and spent his youthful days on the home farm, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Subsequent to his marriage he was busily engaged in the tilling of the soil in Monroe county until 1901, when he came to his present place of one hundred and forty-seven acres in Orange township, where he has since carried on general farming and stock raising with gratifying success. The property

On the 29th of August, 1880, Mr. Moffett was united in marriage to Miss Louisa A. Strickling, a daughter of Joshua and Margaret A. (Baker) Strickiing, both of whom have passed away. In early manhood the father was identified with educational interests as a school teacher but later took up farming in Monroe county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Moffett have been born six children, namely: Joshua, Margaret A., Elsie A., Edith M., Wilbert P. and Annabelle.

Politically Mr. Moffett is a stalwart republican and has served as school director in both Monroe and Ashland counties, the cause of public instruction finding in him a warm friend. He is a public-spirited citizen whose support can be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to advance the general good and is a strong champion of all that tends to develop the community along material, intellectual and moral lines. The members of his family belong to the Disciple church, in which he has been an active Sunday school worker and is now serving as elder. In their attractive home Mr. and Mrs. Moffett dispense a pleasing and gracious hospitality to their extensive circle of friends, who esteem them highly because of their many excellent traits of heart and mind.

George M. Heffelfinger

More than a century ago George Washington said that, ''agriculture is the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man.'' It is a well known fact that it is the basis of all prosperity for if crops are not abundant depression follows in all lines of trade. Upon the farmer, therefore, depends the growth and prosperity of the country at large. George M. Heffelfinger is among those who have done much to promote agricultural progress in this section of Ohio. He now owns and operates a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 4, Lake township, and pleasantly situated a mile south of McZena. His birth occurred in Washington township, Holmes county, Ohio, April 12, 1861. He was the eldest of a family of nine children whose parents were George and Solome (Wenner) Heffelfinger, natives of Alsace, France. The other sons and daughters of the household are as follows: Barney, living in Hanover township; Charles A., whose home is in Washington township, Holmes county ; Henry; Minnie, the wife of John Snively ; Anna, the wife of Charles Arnholt, of Loudonville; Alice, who is living with her mother; and Joseph and Fred who are upon the home farm in Washington township.

Working in the fields through the summer months and attending the district schools in the winter seasons George M. Heffelfinger thus spent his boyhood days and gained that practical experience which qualified him for carrying on farming on his own account. He resided in the place of his nativity until he purchased his present farm in 1900. It has since been his home and indicates in its well kept premises the care and labor which he bestows upon it. The fields are richly cultivated and in the midst of the former stands a fine residence and commodious outbuildings, furnishing ample shelter for grain and stock. In 1901 he erected a large bank barn, thirty-six by ninety-one feet and the other buildings upon his place are equally substantial. He gives his attention to general farming and stock raising and his success follows as the logical sequence of his industry and perseverance. He igs also a stockholder in the Farmers Bank of Loudonville and is regarded as a man of good business judgment and unfaltering enterprise.

In 1885 Mr. Heffelfinger was married to Miss Anna Hyde, who was born in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, May 30, 1862, and was a daughter of Frederick and Katharine (Myers) Hyde, who were natives of Alsace, France. The mother arrived in Ohio at the age of seventeen years, while the father was brought to the United States by his parents when three years of age. They are still residents of Knox township, Holmes county. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heffelfinger has been blessed with two children: Clarence Earl and Ada Florence. -

Mr. Heffelfinger is a member of the Trinity Evangelical church of Londonville and is interested in all that pertains to the material, intellectual, social and moral progress of his community. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and he is serving for the seventh consecutive year as trustee of Lake township, having first been appointed to fill a vacancy while twice he has been elected to fill the office. He is connected with the Patrons of Industry and is interested in all those things which are factors in the upbuilding and development of the community. He stands as one of the representative agriculturists of Lake township, meeting with well merited success, owing to his unflagging industry and perseverance.

John E. Spreng

John E. Spreng, who has charge of the billing department of the F. E. Myers & Brother Machine Shops and who deserves honorable mention as an able business man of Ashland, was born in Wayne county, February 3, 1856, a son of Christian and Julia (Grimm) Spreng, his father a native of Alsace, (Jermany, and liis mother of Bavaria. The former came to this country with his parents when he was sixteen years of age and the latter with her parents when she was in her ninth year, both families locating in Wayne county. where Christian Spreng was united in marriage. Subsequently he and his wife removed to Clinton township, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits and thence went to Congress township, then to Akron, Ohio, where they spent six years, and thence to Naperville, Illinois, where they spent their remaining days, Mr. Spreng entering into rest February 22, 1908, in his ninety-first year, while his wife passed away in 1899 at the age of seventy-seven years. | He supported the republican party but he never aspired to hold public office. Both he and his wife, being of a literary turn of mind, were broad readers of general literature

John E. Spreng pursued his early studies in the schools of his birthplace, subsequently completing a course in the West Salem high school, from which institution he was graduated with the class of 1879. He also attended the Miami Business College, at Dayton, Ohio, after which he located in Akron, where for nine years he was a clerk in a mercantile establishment. Resigning his position in 1889 he immediately came to Ashland, where he entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother in a clerical capacity, performing his duties efficiently for two years, at the expiration of which period he was placed in charge of the billing department of the concern, the duties of which office he has since been performing.

On February 2, 1888, Mr. Spreng was united in marriage to Miss Savilla E. Myers, daughter of George Myers, of this city, and this union has been blessed with five children, namely: Julia Marie, member of the Ashland Musical Club, is organist of the Christian church and resides with her parents. Warren Myers, a pupil at the high school, will later be matriculated as a student in Northwestern College at Naperville, Illinois. The others are, Esther Pauline, deceased, Catherine Elizabeth and Virginia Rosalie. Mr. Spreng belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M. and is also a member of the Colonial Club, of this city. He is a man whose genial disposition has surrounded him with a host of friends and whose business ability has enabled him to place himself in comfortable circumstances. He justly merits the reputation of being among the foremost commercial leaders of the city.

Justus Fox

Justus Fox, a prosperous and enterprising farmer and stock raiser of Montgomery township, was born in Hayesville, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 3d of November, 1854, a son of Frederick Fox. He acquired his education in the district schools and in 1880 started out in business life by working farms on shares. In 1888 he purchased his first farm, comprising a tract of eighty acres, to which he later added twenty acres and two years afterward bought sixty acres more. In 1904 he still further increased his holdings by a purchase of seventy-four acres and is now the owner of two hundred and thirty-four acres of rich, productive and valuable Ohio land. His time and energies are devoted to general farming and the raising of stock, especially horses, and in all of his undertakings he has gained a measure of success which entitles him to recognition among the most substantial, representative and progressive agriculturists of his native county. He belongs to that class of self-made men who are the architects and builders of theiy own fortunes, for since starting out in life on his own account he has worked his way steadily upward, realizing that untiring labor is the basis of all success.

On the 6th of September, 1885, Mr. Fox was united in marriage to Miss Anise B. Stoner, whose birth occurred in 1863. Unto them have been born the following children: Effie M., Mary Lorella, Charles J., Blanch Esther, Florence Ellen and Dora L., all of whom were educated in Ashland. Charles J. Fox attended the Columbus Agricultural College for one winter.

In his political views Mr. Fox is a stalwart democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Brethren church of Ashland. He is a quiet, home loving man, dividing his time between his family and business and takes great delight in adding to the comfort and welfare of his wife and children. He has been a resident of the county from his birth to the present time and has progressed with its development and growth, while in agricultural circles he now occupies a prominent place.

William E. Donley

William E. Donley, a representative and prosperous farmer and stock breeder of Orange township, has always resided on the farm in this township which was entered by his grandfather from the government in 1816. He was born on the 24th of February, 1852, a son of John and Sarah Ann (Alberson) Donley. As stated, in 1816 the paternal grandfather, Thomas Donley, made his way from Pennsylvania to Ashland county, Ohio, and entered a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres, which has continuously remained in possession of the family to the present time. He erected a little cabin home and then returned to the Keystone state for his wife and children, bringing them to this county in the spring of 1817. They reached their destination in March of that year and on the day following their arrival, March 20, the birth of John Donley, the father of William E. Donley, occurred. In early manhood Thomas Donley had wedded Miss Susan Urey and unto them were born the following children: Elizabeth, John, Samuel, Thomas, Susan, Mary Jane, David, and James. All were reared to manhood and womanhood in Ashland county and became active and prominent in the early development and upbuilding of the community. Thomas Donley, the grandfather, was called to his final rest in 1850, having survived his wife for several years. Like his father, John Donley became a helpful and influential factor in the affairs of the county and was highly esteemed and respected by all. His demise occurred on the 26th of J une, 1880, while his wife passed away November 21, 1887. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children, namely: Thomas C., Susan, Frances, William E., Mary J., Rachel, Elizabeth and Clara. All are living with the exception of the two last named.

William E. Donley was reared to manhood on the home farm and when not busy with his text-books assisted in the labor of the fields, thus early becoming familiar with the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. His preliminary education, obtained in the common schools of his native township, was supplemented by a course in Savannah Academy. Subsequent to the death of his father he came into possession of the homestead property and intends that it shall continue to be his place of abode throughout the remainder of his days. 'He has never left the farm for more than three weeks at a time and his has been a useful and busy life, devoted to the pursuits of agriculture and stockraising. He is a breeder of thoroughbred Jersey cattle and registered Delaine sheep and is a recognized authority on the subject of high grade stock. In all of his undertakings he has gained a gratifying and well merited degree of prosperity and has long been numbered among the energetic, progressive and substantial agriculturists of his native county.

On the 5th of October, 1880, Mr. Donley was united in marriage to Miss Ella Ford, a daughter of Laban and Sarah (Pollock) Ford and a representative of a prominent and well known family of Ruggles township. Mr. Ford, who followed farming as a life work, passed away in July, 1906, while his widow still survives, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Donley. The latter has become the mother of six children, as follows: Bentley F., Mary L., the wife of Dr. Earl Roseberry; Edwin S.; Sarah, a successful school teacher; Clara and Ruth.

Politically Mr. Donley is a stanch republican and has served for years as a member of the board of education, the cause of public instruction finding in him a strong champion. He is an advocate of all public improvements tending to promote the material, intellectual and moral advancement of the community and is a most public-spirited and enterprising citizen. He and his family are faithful members of the Presbyterian church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful part. They are widely known and highly esteemed and their attractive home is a favorite resort with many of their friends.

Cornelius Brubaker

Cornelius Brubaker, who is making a success in life as a farmer and stock dealer, to which occupation he has devoted his entire life, was born in Montgomery township, July 13, 1858. Reared under the parental roof, he acquired his education in the district schools and early became familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the farm lad. As the years passed and his strength increased he assisted more and more largely in the work of the fields, and when he at length laid aside his text-books he devoted himself entirely to this line of activity. He owns a fine farm of fifty acres of rich land two and a half miles from the city of Ashland, and here he carries on general agricultural pursuits, while for the past eleven years he has given much of his time to buying, selling and shipping stock in connection with his other interests. With the exception of a small start in the beginning of his business career, he has made his own way in life and has met with excellent success that now places him among the prosperous and representative agriculturists of the community.

On December 20, 1879, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brubaker and Miss Emma Hoover, a daughter of Phillip and Elizabeth Hoover. They have one son, Leroy Brubaker, who received his education in the district schools and is being reared to farm life, assisting his father in his agricultural interests. Mr. Brubaker gives his political support to the democratic party, and although he has never sought nor desired office, he uses his influence at the polls in behalf of the candidates of his party. He is a public-spirited gentleman, and although his private business interests demand his time and attention, yet he is in hearty sympathy with and lends his cooperation to all movements and measures that have for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding of the community. Personally his undustry and perseverance have won him an enviable place among the agriculturists of the community and his business integrity and true worth of character have gained him many friends who entertain for him warm regard.

Allen Thomas

Allen Thomas, who exerts a telling influence in the commercial life of Ashland, as a member of the firm of Thomas, Myers & Wolf, lumber merchants, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, April 4, 1852, a son of John and Nancy (Piper) Thomas. natives of the Keystone state, who in childhood went with their parents to Wayne county where they were united in marriage, in 1862 removing to Ashland county, one year later permanently settling on a farm in Montgomery township where they spent their remaining days, Mr. Thomas departing this life in 1904, at the age of eighty-three years, while his wife. at the age of seventyfour years, entered into rest in 1899. Mr. Thomas was a republican in politics, loyal to his party throughout his life, and both he and his wife were faithful adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Allen Thomas spent his boyhood and vouth at home under the attentive supervision of his parents, acquiring his education in the district schools. In the year 1875, leaving the parental roof, he began his business career, establishing himself in the stove and tinware business in partnership with James Pollick under the firm name of Thomas & Pollick, conducting the enterprise in this city. One vear after the business had been founded Mr. Pollick disposed of his interest to Mr. Grindle, a new partnership being then formed and the business ran along smoothly for one year when their establishment was destroved by fire. Mr. Thomas and his partner then engaged in the restaurant business for one year, at the termination of which time Mr. Grindle sold his interest to Mr. Reep, with whom Mr. Thomas conducted the business for six vears under the firm name of Thomas & Reep, when again Mr. Thomas met with the misfortune of having his establishment destroved by fire. Associated with his partner he rebuilt and started a grocery and queensware business, which they conducted successfully for eleven years, selling out in 1894. They next purchased a sanitarium at Magnetic Springs, Ohio, which they operated until 1903, and after they disposed of it Mr. Thomas returned to this city where in March, 1906, in partnership with Jerry Wolf he purchased an interest in the hunber business of J. W. Myers & Company, at which time the firm was reorganized under the name of Thomas, Myers & Wolf, under which name they have since been doing business. It is one of the most: important enterprises in the city, the company owning large lumber yards and planing mills and doing an extensive business throughout this and adjoining states. Among other enterprises with which Mr. Thomas is connected are the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company, of which he is a stockholder and director, and the Ashland Bank & Savings Company, being a stockholder and director in that institution. He is also one of the three men who own the patents on the block and cement mixing machines manufactured in Ashland.

On January 14, 1879, Mr. Thomas wedded Miss Katherine F. Reep, a native of this city and a daughter of Christian Reep, deceased, and to this union were born Grace and an infant, both now deceased. The republican party has always commanded the allegiance of Mr. Thomas, who takes quite an interest in local affairs and who served two terms as treasurer of Montgomery township and for three years as a member of the board of education of this city. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F. and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, being on the board of trustees of that organization. His keen business ability is recognized throughout the city, in developing the interests of which he has taken an active part, and he justly merits the reputation he enjoys as one of its leading citizens.

Estey E. Miller

Ksiey EK. Miller, conducting au extensive and profitable business as a grain, hay and coal dealer at Nova, is also prominently identified with the financial interests of the town as president of the Nova Banking Company. His birth occurred in Troy township, Ashland county, Ohio, on the 11th of September, 1873, his parents being Jonas 8. and Mary A. (Swartz) Miller. The father, who was born in Redhaw, Ashland county, April 15, 1849, was the eldest son of George and Christina Miller. In early childhood he accompanied his parents on their removal to Nova, this county, and with the exception of three years spent in Cleveland, Ohio, there continued to make his home until called to his final rest. On the 6th of March, 1865, when less than sixteen years of age, he enlisted in defense of the Union as a member of Company I, One Hundred and Ninetyfifth Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry. and was honorably discharged some months later on account of illness. In later years he maintained pleasant relatious with his old army comrades through his membership in C. P. Ogden Post, No. 560. G. A. R. In preparation for a business eareer, he familiarized himself with the blacksmith's trade at West Salem. Ohio. and in 1871 located at Nova where he engaged in blacksmithing and carriage building until 1885, when he became a member of the Ohio Steel Thill Company. In 1896 he became the senior member of the firm of KE. BE. Miller & Company. dealers in grain and hay, and oe ers: factor in its successful control until the time of his death on the 4th of March. 1907. Ile was well known and highly e Pat g the northern portion of Ashland county and his éttérts srcrerateew nt element in the upbuilding and development of the town of Nova. He superintended the erection of the grain elevator at that place and for twenty vears was a member of the Nova Cornet Baud. In September. 1872, Jonas S. Miller was Joined in wedlock to Miss Mary A. Swartz. of Redhaw. this county. and by this