Ashland City (part 48 of 57)

After obtaining a good practical education in the public schools of Nova, Estey E. Miller took up the study of telegraphy and subsequently secured a position with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad at Conneaut, Ohio, where he remained for nine months. He then worked for the same railroad at Mentor, Ohio, for a period of eighteen months but at the end of that time resigned his position and in 1892 became identified with the mercantile interests of Nova as a dealer in grain, hay and coal. As the years have gone by he has. built up a large and profitable trade in these commodities and is widely recognized as a most substantial, enterprising and representative business man of the community. Public-spirited and progressive in a marked degree, he soon realized that a bank was necessary to care for the business of the town and undertook the organization of such an institution. In the summer of 1907, as the result of his efforts, the Nova Banking Company was organized under the banking laws of the State of Ohio with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, its doors being opened for business on December 4th, of the same year. The home of the bank is a substantial and attractive brick building, equipped with every modern convenience, time locks, safety vaults, etc. The fact that the institution supplies a long felt want and is fully appreciated by the business men and farmers of the community, is attested by its ever increasing patronage. At the time of its organization Mr. Miller was elected president and has since continued as the chief executive officer of the bank, his keen discrimination, sound judgement and excellent management preving an important factor in its successful conduct. He was also active in founding the Nova Telephone Company, which was organized under the state laws in 1907 and has long distance connection with the Star and Bell companies. Mr. Miller capably served the company in the position of treasurer for some time.

On the i7th of October, 1895, Mr. Miller wedded Miss Ota M. Kosht, a daughter of Josiah and Adeline (Swartz) Kosht, of Troy township. By this union there are three children: Charles F., Beryl M.. and Juanita E., aged twelve, ten and eight years respectively.

In his political views Mr. Miller is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust. He has been treasurer of Troy township for two terms and a member of the Nova school board for a number of vears. the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. At a party convention held at Ashland in 1906 he was nominated for the office of county auditor without his knowledge or consent, not being present at the convention. Notwithstanding the fact that this county has a strong democratic majority and that he made no personal effort to secure votes. he made an excellent showing at the polls. rnnning far ahead of the ticket. Fraternally he is identified with Sullivan Lodge, No. 579, I. O. O. PF. He is a great lover of music and is a valued member of the Nova Cornet Band, which is a splendid organization of its kind. His gun and fishing rod also afford him much pleasure and recreation and he is an advocate of all manly outdoor sports. His -many sterling traits of character have won him the warm regard and friendship of many with whom he has come in contact and he is widely recognized as a citizen whose efforts have contributed in large measure to the upbuilding and development of his native county along various lines.

Edmond Helbert

In the seventy-six vears of a well spent life Edmond Helbert has so directed his efforts that he is now living retired in Jeromeville with a competence sufficient to supply him with all of the comforts of life. From his early childhood he has resided in Ashland county, arriving in Mohican township in 1835. He was born in Bedford county. Pennsylvania. on the 23d of September, 1833, so was only in his second year when his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Mock) Ilelbert. removed to this state. Their family numbered thirteen children, of whom he was the twelfth in order of birth. The parents were born and reared about thirty miles west of Philadelphia and after their marriage they removed

Bedford county, that state. where all of their children were born with the exception of their youngest. John Helbert. whose birth occurred in Ashland. Thinking to find better business oportunities in a less thickly settled district, the father removed with his family to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1835, and purchased a tract of land north of Mohieanville, where with characteristic energy he began the development and improvement of the farm. He built the first bank barn in Mohican township and his neighbors predicted that he would never raise enough crops to fill it. but his harvests the first year were more than sufficient to utilize the capacity thus afforded. With resolute purpose he undertook the task of cutting away the forest trees, picking out the stumps, burning the brush, turning the furrows and cultivating the land until the dense forest growth was replaced by fields of waving grain. His labors were continued without interruption until he had placed one hundred and sixty acres under a fine state of cultivation. He also bought one hundred and ten acres additional which he afterward gave to one of his sons. Both he and his wife reached advanced age. Jacob Helbert being ninety-one vears of age at the time of his demise, while his wife died when eighty vears of age. Their children were as follows: Marie, the deceased wife of John Newman; William. who was a twin brother of Marie and went to California in the spring of 1849. his death there occurring two years later: Jacob. deceased: Michael. living in Vermillion township; Rebecea. who became the wife of John Garst and died in 1862: Peter. who died in June. 1908. at the age of eighty-four years in Jeromeville. where he was ng retired: Hettie. who married Jacob Wachtel and after his death became the wife of Charles Cosner: Henry. a resident of Ashland county ; Sarah, who is the widow of Henry Wachtel and lives on the old home place; Levi. deceased ; Edmond. of this review; and John. living in Hayesville.

7 ] I Ilis memory goes back to the time when there were er life here and his recollection covers the period when many homes were log cabins. when cooking was done over the fireplace and even to the time when kerosene lamps had not in very large measure supplanted tallow candles. He worked in the fields with his father through the period of his boyhood and youth and continued upon the home farm until eleven years after his marriage, cultivating the farm on shares. He then purchased a farm of eighty acres and now has one hundred and thirty-four acres about two miles north of Mohicanville on section 30, Mohican township. There he continuously engaged in general agricultural pursuits until 1901, when he removed to Jeromeville. The farm still pays to him a good tribute and in addition he owns five acres in the village upon which he has erected an attractive dwelling, being now most comfortably situated in life.

In March, 1865, Mr. Helbert was united in marriage to Miss Katharine Sumner, who was born in Lake township, Ashland county, July 23, 1843, and is a daughter of Clement and Elizabeth (Underwood) Sumner, natives of Vermont and Pennsylvania, respectively. With their parents they came to Ohio in their childhood days and were married in Lake township. There the death of Mrs. Sumner occurred and later Mr. Sumner removed to Liverpool, Medina county, Ohio, where he died. They were the parents of five children: Mrs. Helbert; Phoebe, who is the widow of Samuel Millen, a resident of Kansas; Seneca, who died in Kansas; Rebecca, who died in Lake township at the age of fourteen years ; and Solon, residing in the state of New York. Unto Mr. and Mrs. [elbert have been born four children, but the first two, Mary Elizabeth and Laura Etta, died of scarlet fever about the same time, the former at the age of seven and the latter when five years old. Clement W. died at the age of one year. Adam Augustus, the only surviving child, is now a representative farmer of this county. He married Dema Seigler, who died leaving one son, Guy Eugene, and after her death Adam Augustus Helbert wedded Lilly Hossinger, by whom he has two children, Ruth Pauline and Mildred Irene.

Mr. and Mrs. Edmond Helbert are members of the Reformed church of Mohicanville and his political support is given to the democracy. His life has been well spent and has been crowned with a substantial measure of success. This is evident in the fact that he is now the owner of a valuable farm property on which are large, fine buildings. while everything about the place is indicative of the thrift of the owner.

Charles M. And Edgar J. Rohn

Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn, who are successfully engaged in farming, stock raising and dairying in Orange township, are worthy representatives of a prominent and well known pioneer family of this county. The birth of Charles M. Rohn occurred February 21, 1876, and his brother, Edgar -J.. first opened his eyes to the light of day on the 29th of November, 1877. The paternal orandfather. Charles Rohn, was born in 1802 and in 1839 made his way from paedhcivinse to Ashland county, Ohio, settling on the farm which is now the home 'of his grandsons. Throughout his active business career he followed 'farming and stock raising and his demise occurred in September, 1888. - TIis son, William A. Rohn, who was born August 22, 1841, wedded Miss Ophelia C. Miller and was called to his final rest on the 18th of September, 1906. Like his father he was prominently and successfully identified with the pursuits of farming and stock-raising, being numbered among the substantial and progressive citizens of the community. He is still survived by his widow, two sons and two daughters, the latter being Mary E. and Ina M., the wife of John Alsdorf.

Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn were educated in the district schools and have always resided on and cultivated the old homestead farm. It comprises one hundred and eighty-seven and a half acres of rich and productive land, splendidly improved and equipped with all modern conveniences to facilitate the work of the fields. Here the brothers are carrying on farming, stock-raising and dairying and in all of these undertakings are meeting with success, owing to their keen business discernment, untiring energy and capable management.

On the 17th of August, 1907, Charles M. Rohn was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Melching, a daughter of August and Anna M. (Satler) Melching, of Milton township.

Both Charles M. and Edgar J. Rohn give their political allegiance to the democracy and take an active and helpful interest in the local work of the party, favoring all movements and measures instituted to promote the general welfare. Fraternally they are connected with Mohican Lodge No. 85, I. O. O. F., while their religious faith is indicated by their membership in the Trinity Lutheran church. Their lives have been characterized by industry, honesty and integrity in all relations and they have fully sustained the honorable record made by their grandfather and father. They are moreover young men of genial, cordial disposition and are prominent in social circles of the community, the circle of their friends being almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintances.

George W. Garst

George W. Garst carries on general farming on section 21, Mohican township, having there three hundred and nineteen acres of land in one tract. His place is three miles southeast of Jeromeville and in its further development and improvement his time is fully ocenpied, with the result that the property constitutes a valuable investment, returning to him a gratifying annual income. Mr. Garst was born in Mohicanville on the 13th of May, 1850, and was only a year old when his father removed to a small farm a half mile west of the village. His parents were John and Rebecca (Helbert) Garst. The former was born in Alsace, France. in 1820, and when eleven years of age sailed to New York with his parents. The family first settled in Pennsylvania, but the parents both died in the metropolis of cholera a few days after their arrival in the new world. The five children then continued the journey to the Keystone state, making their way to the home of friends who had previously resided in the same locality with them in the fatherland. John Garst arrived in Jeromeville io, when about fifteen vears of age and there learned the trade of reek aes after which he removed to Mohicanville, where he was employed by others ata he was able to buy a shop and begin business for himself. He conducted his smithy in Mohicanville for a time and also on his farm just west of the town where he remained most of his active life. He was one of the first men to be drafted for service in the civil war, but feeling that he could not leave his family and business he sent a substitute. As the years passed he prospered in his undertaking and became a money lender, handling large amounts for others. In fact he did a regular private banking business and for a considerable period invested extensively in land, buying and selling. At one time he had over six hundred acres but gave to his children, for whom he made generous provision. When he arrived in this county his clothing was of a very cheap quality and his actual capital consisted of only three or four dollars. | His success proves conclusively what may be accomplished by earnest, indefatigable labor and judicial investment. In business matters his judgment was seldom, if ever, at fault and his success followed as a logical sequence to his persistent effort. He died near Mohicanville in 1904 at the age of eighty-four years. He was not a member of a church but regularly attended the services of the Methodist Episcopal and the Reformed churches at Mohicanville and contributed generously to their support. In politics he was a democrat and held various township offices, yet frequently refused to serve as he cared more to devote his attention to business affairs than to receive the honors of office. His first wife was a native of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and came to Ashland county in her childhood with her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Helbert. The Helberts were a prominent pioneer family of this county, of whom extended mention is made in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert on another page of this work. The death of Mrs. Garst occurred in 1862, when she was forty-two years of age. The children of that marriage were: William, living in Fulton county, Ohio; George W., of this review ; Phoebe, now deceased, who was the wife of George Obrecht and after his death married Charles McLaughlin; Elizabeth, the wife of W. KE. Paullin; Rebecca, the wife of George Glasener of Vermilhon township; and Mary, who died at the age of sixteen years. Having lost his first wife the father married Margaret Wallace and they have three children: Belle, the wife of George Maurer of Texas; Dora the wife of Peter Ilelbert, who is living on the old homestead of his father-in-law in Mohican township; and Della, the wife of James J. Welch, of Loudonville.

Upon his father's farm about a half mile west of Mohicanville, George W. Garst spent his youthful days, indulging in the sports common to the lads of the interior and also dividing his time between the work of the schoolroom and of the fields. He remained upon the old home farm until thirty years of age. After putting aside his text-books he gave his attention to the task of plowing, planting and harvesting and also assisted his father in the blacksmith shop. Following his marriage he lived for two years on an adjoining farm at the edge of Mohicanville and in 1882 came to his present place, which he had purchased the previous year. Here he has since resided and the evidence of his active life is seen in his well developed farm. He at first purchased two hundred and twenty-eight acres but has since extended the boundaries of his place until it now comprises three hundred and nineteen acres all in one body. It is situated on section 16 and 21, Mohican township. He has a splendid set of farm buildings upon it which were erected by Mr. Garst. His home is a commodious and beautiful residence, built in modern style of architecture and in the rear is a large bank barn and other outbuildings necessary for the shelter of grain and stock. He devotes his attention to general agricultural pursuits and raises good grades of horses, cattle and hogs. The capable management which he displays in carrying on his farm work has brought to him a creditable measure of success. In addition to his home property he has two hundred and three acres in Plain township, Wayne county, which is operated by his son-inlaw. He also owns a section of land in Carson county, Texas. As the years have gone by he has thus prospered and his realty holdings are now extensive, while he derives therefrom a substantial annual income.

In 1880 Mr. Garst was united in marriage to Miss Katie Butler who was born in Holmes county, Ohio, September 13, 1858, and is a daughter of James and Margaret (Ullerich) Butler. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Garst have been born seven children who are yet living and they also lost one in infancy. Those who still survive are: Charles B., of Reedsburg, Ohio, who was born November 22, 1882, and married Blanche Lucas; Walter, a resident of Mohican township, who was born December 13, 1883, and married Florence Moon, by whom he has one son, Harry; Paul, a resident of Mohican township, and was born October 23, 1885, and married Carrie Garn, by whom he has two children, George W. and Katharine; Fern, who was born January 5, 1888, and is the wife of T. R. Garn, living on her father's farm in Plain township; Flossie May, who was born May 5, 1890, and is at home; Robert, who was born September 17, 1893, and is yet under the parental roof; and Essie, who was born September 12, 1897, and completes the family.

Mr. and Mrs. Garst have a most hospitable home and delight in entertaining their many friends. They are prominent and influential people in the community and enjoy the warm regard of all with whom business or social relations have brought them in contact. Mr. Garst is a democrat in his politieal views and has served as school director for thirteen years but otherwise has held no public office. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity in Jeromeville and is in sympathy with the beneficent spirit of that order. A lifelong resident of the county, his many good qualities are known to his fellowmen and he is classed with the foremost representatives of agricultural interests here.

Ellsworth G. Welch

Ellsworth G. Welch is engaged in general farming in Orange township. He likewise raises sheep and deals in wool and he possesses, moreover, considerable mechanical ingenuity, which has been manifest in the production of several valuable inventions. He was born April 15, 1861, in the township where he yet resides, his parents being Johnson and Emeline (Buchanan) Welch. His grandfather, Ephraim Welch, was one of the early settlers of Ashland county, arriving in 1828 from Washington county, Pennsylvania. He was the father of four sons and two daughters: James M., John, Johnson, Rankin, Catharine and Mary Jane, all of whom became prosperous and influential citizens of the communities in which they lived. Johnson. was a large landowner and a breeder of Delaine sheep, being recognized as an authority on the matter of sheep raising. He was energetic and determined in his business affairs and the qualities which he displayed in all lines of life made him highly respected. His integrity was unassailable and his energy constituted the basis of a very gratifying success. In his farming operations he kept everything about his place in excellent condition and-raised only high grades of stock. He died October 26, 1886, at the age of fifty-five years and his remains were interred in the Nankin cemetery. He is still survived by his widow, a most estimable lady, who enjoys the warm regard of all who know her. In their family were seven children: Eugene B., Ellsworth G., Etta L., Frank L., Mary J., Herman B. and Royal J.

Mr. Welch, whose name introduces this-record, spent his youth on his father's farm and after attending the common schools continued his education in the Polk high school and in Ashland College; while subsequently he spent four terms in Oberlin College. He was thus afforded excellent educational privileges, well qualifying him for life's practical and responsible duties. He has since given his attention to farming and stock raising and hts business interests have been so capably conducted that he is now numbered among the prosperous residents of this part of the county. His fields produce good crops and in his pastures are seen high grades of stock. He makes a specialty of raising sheep and dealing in wool, handling the Delaine sheep, which are excellent wool producers. He has followed farming continuously since his marriage and in 1900 he took up his abode upon the place where he now lives, known as the ''Old Ricket'' farm. He has given considerable attention to the matter of metal roofing and his inventive turn of mind has resulted in giving to the world several valuable mechanical devices, including an approved rural mail box, which has had a good sale. He has patented a corrugated roofing device, by which a large saving in material is secured and leaks prevented over the laps. He is a man of unfaltering industry and marked energy and accomplishes whatever he undertakes.

On the 22d of April, 1899, Mr. Welch was united in marriage to Miss Bertha P. Porter, a daughter of Giles and Mary J. (Urie) Porter. Her father was a native of the state of New York and for a time was engaged in business in Ashland, where he was married. The Uries were an early family of this county and the grandfather, George W. Urie, who came from Pennsylvania in pioneer times, settled in Richland county. There he was prominent in public affairs and took an active part in promoting the development and shaping the public policy of that district. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Giles Porter removed to Geneseo, Illinois, and Mrs. Welch was there born. She lost her mother when quite young but her father is still living at Fairfield, Illinois, having sometime since retired from mercantile business and is now a prosperous farmer and fruit grower. Mr. and Mrs. Welch now have three children: Florence L., Donald M. and Marshall Johnson. They also lost one 'child, their firstborn, in infancy.

In politics Mr. Welch is a stalwart republican and has been urged to become a candidate for office by his fellow townsmen, who recognize the worth and value of his citizenship. " Tn 1897 his party made him its candidate for representative, but he was defeated although he ran ahead of his ticket for Ashland is a strong democratic center. His wife is a member of the Hasteru Star. Their home is one of refinement and culture, where good literature is ereatly enjoyed. They occupy a prominent position in the social circles, where intelligence is regarded as a necessary attribute to congeniality. Their own home is most hospitable and is always open for the reception of their many friends. Mr. Welch takes a firm stand in support of public improvements and his advocacy thereof is not one of words but of works. When he sees a public or private need he at once attempts to meet it and his patriotism, his high ideal of citizenship and the substantial qualities which he shows in every walk of life have gained him recognition as one of the honored and valued residents of the county.

William H. Huff

William H. Huff is numbered among the honored veterans of the Civil war and also among the progressive farmers of Lake township, where he devotes his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and stock raising. His natal day was July 15, 1832, while the place of his birth was a farm about a mile southeast of Mohicanville, in Lake township, Ashland county. His parents were Peter and Rose Ann (Loer) Huff, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, in which state they were reared and married. Peter Huff lost his mother when he was quite young and the father afterward bound out the boy to a man by the name of Wright, who came to Ashland county, Ohio, and entered one hundred and sixty acres of land for Mr. Huff when he should become of age. The latter built a cabin upon the tract, then returned to Pennsylvania and was married, after which he brought his bride to Ohio the following spring, their remaining days being spent here. Mr. Huff cleared his land, which was covered with a native forest growth when it came into his passession. Cutting down the trees he grubbed up the stumps and prepared the fields for cultivation, so that in time he gathered rich harvests as the reward of his labors. He placed under cultivation nearly the entire tract of one hundred and sixty acres, constituting the southwest quarter of section 4, Lake township. He lived a busy and useful life and died at the age of seventy-two years, while his wife passed away at the age of sixty-eight vears. Her parents attained a remarkable old age, her father dying in Pennsylvania at the age of one hundred and one years, while the mother died in the same state as a centenarian. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Huff were six children: Samuel, a resident of Cheriton, Virginia; Mary Elizabeth. who is the widow of Anthony Stentz and lives in Lake township ; Sarah, who makes her home with her brother, William, and is the widow of Jacob Parker, who died while serving in the Union army ; Edward W., who died in childhood; Wiliam H.; and Martha, the wife of George Ryland, of Mansfield.

William H. Huff And Family

William H. Huff was reared as a farm boy and has given his entire life to general agricultural pursuits. He now has a farm of seventy-five acres, which is a part of his father's original quarter section. Practically the only interruption that has come to his work in the fields was when in the spring of 1864 he enlisted for service as a member of Company I, One Hundred and Sixtythird Ohio Volunteer Infantry, joining the command on the 2d of May. He was first with the militia but later went out with the army of the Potomac in response to the call for troops to serve for one hundred days, at the expiration of which time he was honorably discharged. On his return he resumed his farm work and has since diligently managed the property and cultivated its fields, having a good farm which is improved with substantial buildings. He also operated a sawmill in the early days. It was a water-power mill which was conducted by his father and later by himself, and he also operated a cider mill with water power. His brother Samuel owned and operated the Mohican Woolen Mills, at Mohicanville, but subsequently traded that property for the farm in Virginia whereon he resided for some time but he is now living in Cheriton, Virginia.

On the 9th of September, 1869, Mr. Huff was united in marriage to Miss May Horn, who was born in Lake township, July 20, 1843, and has always lived in this neighborhood. She is a daughter of Jacob and Katharine (Hans) Horn, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Germany. They were married, however, in this county and spent their remaining days within its borders. Their family numbered six daughters and three sons. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Huff was blessed with five children: Lydia, now the wife of Sylvanus Coble, of Vermillion township, by whom she has one child, Ethel; Lucy, the wife of George Moore, of Wadsworth; Rilla, the wife of Ed. Kittering, of Green township, by whom she has three children, Wayland, Owen and Grace; Anna, at home; and Edward.

Mr. Huff gives his political support to the republican party and thoroughly understands the questions and issues of the day, but does not desire office as he prefers to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. He has served as school director and judge of election. He labors diligently and persistently in the cultivation of his fields and the improvement of his farm and his work is meeting with substantial results in good harvests that bring him a gratifying annual income.

William S. Hoover

William S. Hoover, carrying on general farming on what is known as the old Hoover homestead, was born in this state, November 24, 1865, the only child of David and Sarah Elizabeth (Hazlett) Hoover. The father was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, July 29, 1827, and the mother on the 22d of April, 1833, in Ashland county, Ohio. Their marriage was here celebrated February 2, 1865. David Hoover, with limited education, had commenced 'business life as a farmer. He had come to Ohio with his parents when eight years of age and when old enough started to work for others, for his father had been unfortunate in sustaining heavy losses by trying to assist others in a financial way. The son was therefore obliged to become self-dependent at an early age but he soon displayed the elemental strength and force of his character and his sound judgment and unfaltering energy enabled him to forge ahead and in due time gain a position among the men of affluence in this county. About 1869 he purchased his first farm comprising ninety-six acres, and later added forty acres to his possessions and his son, William S., now resides on this farm. He was recognized as a man of force who wielded a wide influence. His conduct in every relation of life won him the respect and good will of those with whom he was associated and he was looked upon as one of Ashland county's most noble and honorable men. While he gave close attention to his own business .affairs, he was ever ready to lend a helping hand to others or to assist in any movement for the public good. Although he was ever a strong democrat, he never aspired to political office but supported his party at the polls. His religious faith was in harmony with the teachings of the Lutheran church. He died April 30, 1898, after an illness of about four years, and Ashland county mourned the loss of a worthy and valued citizen.

William S. Hoover was reared upon the old home farm and has always carried on general agricultural pursuits. He remained under the parental roof and cared for his parents in sickness and in health, and is still displaying the utmost filial love and devotion for his mother. On the 5th of June, 1890, he was united in marriage to Miss Laura A. Long, who was born in Lake township, this county, May 16, 1862, a daughter of George W. Long, and they have one daughter, Mabel S8., who was born May 13, 1891, and is now in school in Ashland.

Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are both enthusiastic church members. In polities Mr. Hoover is an earnest democrat, and is active as a party worker, although not an aspirant for office. He does all in his power, however, to further the interests of his friends who seek political preferment. He has frequently been called upon to serve on the county jury and once on the federal jury. He prefers, however, at all times to concentrate his energies upon his business interests in connection with the management and control of his farm, and while his life has been in a measure quietly and uneventfully passed, he stands for those things which work for good citizenship and for the best interests of the community at large.

William Noggle

Ashland county is one of the rich farming districts of Ohio and among its borders are many valuable tracts of land highly cultivated. Among the fine farms of Mohican township is that owned by William Noggle, who resides on section 9. He has altogether two hundred and five acres of rich land on sections 8 and 9 and the place is pleasantly and conveniently situated about a mile south of Jeromeville on the Mohicanville road. His attention is devoted to general farming and stock-raising and both branches of his business are proving profitable. It was in the township where he now resides that William Noggle was born on the 22d of January, 1841, his parents being William and Eliza (Ritter) Noggle, both of whom were natives of Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and spent their last days in Ashland county, Ohio. The father died October 16, 1888, at the age of eighty-five years, eight months and eight days, while the mother died January 11, 1889, at the age of seventy-nine years, one month and twenty-nine days. They were married in the Keystone state and arrived in Ashland county about 1832, establishing their home on the farm in Mohican township which was their place of abode until called to their final rest. The father had over three hundred acres of rich and valuable land and was known as one of the leading and representative agriculturists of the community. He gave unfaltering political support to the democratic party, sought to enhance its success and for four or five terms capably served as township assessor. His religious faith was that of the Methodist church and his life was one of unfaltering honor and integrity. His wife, too, possessed equally commendable traits of character, molding her daily actions by her Christian faith. In their family were. eight children: Mary Ann, living in Lake county, Ohio; Margaret, the wife of Thomas Wilson, who died in Missouri; John, who served for about one year in the Civil war and died in Crestline, Ohio; William; Malinda, the widow of Thomas Sproll and a resident of Iowa; Harriett, the wife of Frank Ridgley, of Ashland ; Joseph, living in California; and Eliza, the wife of Joseph Carnes, of Wyandot county, Ohio.

William Noggle was reared under the parental roof and the experiences of. his boyhood were similar to those of most farm lads, who are instructed in the work of the fields as well as in the lessons to be learned in the schoolroom. His leisure hours were devoted to the sports and games in which the boys of the period usually indulged and when about twenty-three years of age he went to the far west, spending three and a half years in mining and in ranching in Idaho and Montana. He then returned to Ohio, was married and has since lived in Ashland county, devoting his energies to general farming. At the time of the Civil war he put aside business and personal considerations to espouse the Union cause, enlisting in the spring of 1861 at the first call for troops, joing Company B, of the Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was sent to West Virginia and to Maryland where he saw active service for three months. On the expiration of that period he returned home and went to the west, as previously stated. For more than forty years, however, he has continuously engaged in farming in this county and with two hundred and five acres of land under cultivation his time is fully occupied for he keeps his farm in an excellent state of improvement. There are two sets of good buildings upon it and everything about the place is kept in good repair. It presents a most attractive appearance and its proximity to Jeromeville enables the family to easily obtain the advantages offered in city life. He carries on general farming and stock raising and in his pastures are seen good grades of horses, cattle and hogs, while the fields bring forth rich harvests.

William and Barbara (Whittington) Craig, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in Westmoreland county. The mother made the journey to Ohio on horseback and they were married in Ashland county, where they spent their remaining days. Both passed away in Vermillion township, the former on the 15th of October, 1888, when he had reached the age of seventy-six years and seventeen days, while the latter died August 29, 1893, at the age of seventy-nine years and ten days. They were the parents of ten children, who reached adult age, namely: Mrs. Noggle; Polly, the wife of James K. Winbigler, of Jeromeville; James, living in Mansfield, Ohio; Elizabeth, who is the widow of Thomas Glenn and resides in Mohican township; Ansabilla, the wife of James A. Ralson, of Ashland; Myra Bell, the deceased wife of John Roby; Martha Ann, the wife of Franklin Leader, a resident of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Alice, the wife of Edwin Heiser, a resident of Jeromeville; Emma, the wife of Anson Leopole, a resident of Loudonville; and William Henry, of Mansfield, Ohio. The grandfather of Mrs. Noggle was William Craig, a native of Ireland, while the maternal grandfather was James Whittington, who was born in Scotland. He married Elizabeth Firecoats, also a native of Scotland, their marriage, however, being celebrated in Pennsylvania.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Noggle was blessed with a daughter and son, Barbara Eldora, the wife of Thomas Beard, of Jeromeville; and William H., also living in Jeromeville.

Mr. Noggle gives his political allegiance to the democracy and is recognized as one of its local leaders, taking an active part in its work and doing all in his power to secure its success. He served as county commissioner for two terms and was a trustee of Mohican township for two terms. His official duties have ever been discharged in a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to his constituents. He held membership in Jeromeville Post, G. A. R., belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, and he and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church in which he is serving as a trustee. In his religious faith has been found the incentive for the upright life which he has lived. His word is as good as any bond ever solemnized by signature or seal and he has never been known to take advantage of the necessity of another in any business transaction. His record has at all times been upright and honorable, winning for him the merited regard in which he is uniformly held.

Sidney 8S. Bolles

Sidney 8. Bolles, one of Ashland county's public-spirited citizens and a worthy representative of its agricultural interests, has lived upon his present farm in Orange township since 1886. He was born in Jackson township, this county, May 4, 1851, and is a son of Lafayette and Phidelia (Stevens) Bolles, both of whom were natives of Ohio, the father's birth having oceurred in Geauga county, while the mother was born in Lisbon, this state. In 1848 they removed to Ashland county, establishing their home in Jackson township and in 1859 went to Wisconsin. After a brief residence there, however, they removed to Tennessee in 1860 and subsequently returned to Ohio, settling in Ashtabula county where they spent two years. On the expiration of that period they came to Ashland county, where Mr. Bolles remained until his demise. He was a carpenter and farmer, giving his life to industrial as well as agricultural pursuits. He died October 21, 1899, while his wife passed away in 1898. Their substantial qualities had gained them high regard and caused their death to be regretted by many who knew them.

Sidney S. Bolles acquired his education in the common schools and in Berea College of Ohio, which he attended for three years. He began teaching at the age of eighteen and taught for twelve winter terms in Ashland county, while in the summer seasons he was employed in a cheese factory in Jackson township. He has always lived a life of industry, there being few leisure moments .and his persistency of purpose and unfaltering energy have constituted the basis of the gratifying success which is now his. It was in 1886 that he located on his present farm and in the years which have since come and gone he has directed his energies to the further development and improvement of his fields and to the breeding of pure, Chester White hogs, in which connection he has gained a wide reputation for his stock is of the highest grade. Everything about his place indicates the careful supervision of a practical, enterprising and thrifty owner who recognizes the fact that unfaltering labor constitutes a safe foundation upon which to build success.

On the 22d of March, 1882, Mr. Bolles was married to Miss Louie Richards, a daughter of Alvin and Elizabeth (Hager) Richards, of Orange township. They have two daughters, Clara and Grace, who have been liberally educated. In his political views Mr. Bolles was an earnest republican for some time, but of recent years has been independent in politics, preferring to support the candidates whom in his judgment are best qualified for office. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and stand for all that is best in human activities. Mr. Bolles favors every public improvement calculated to advance the general good. Tle is a man more than ordinarily intelligent, whose judgment of the values of life is correct and who by his upright and honorable life has won and enjoyed the esteem and confidence of his neighbors and friends.

Henry Cosner

Henry Cosner, diligent and determined in his operation of a farm of two hundred and two acres on sections 32 and 33, Mohican township, is numbered among the natives sons of the county, his birth having ocurred June 14, 1862, on the farm on which he has always resided, it being still his home. His parents were Charles'and Hettie (Helbert) Cosner, the former born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, October 1, 1813, and the latter in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, December 17, 1823. . The father came here as a young man with his widowed mother and one sister and spent the remainder of his days here, passing away - on the 23d of February, 1893. His wife survived him for some years and died

November 27, 1902. She was a daughter of Jacob Helbert, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work in connection with the sketch of Henry Helbert. Charles Cosner was a stone mason by trade and followed that pursuit until fifty years of age, after which he devoted his attention to farming. His wife had been previously married, her first union being with Jacob Wachtel, by whom she had three children. By her second marriage she had two children: Henry, of this review; and Lucy, the wife of John McNaul, of Richland county, Ohio.

In his youthful days Henry Cosner worked in the fields and attended school and after he had completed his education gave his undivided attention to agricultural pursuits. He has never resided elsewhere but on the farm which is now his home. It comprises two hundred and two acres of land and also forty-three acres in Green township. Here he carries on general farming and stock-raising and in 1906 he erected his present commddious and substantial barn, which is one of the finest in the township. Its dimensions are eighty-four by one hundred feet and in addition he has a bank barn, seventeen by sixty feet, with covered barnyard. There are two sets of buildings on the home place. There were ninety-three acres of this land in his father's old homestead and Mr. Cosner purchased the remainder. His own residence is pleasantly and conveniently located a half mile west of Mohicanville.

Mr. Cosner wedded Miss Hattie Chesrown a native of Mohican township and a daughter of Joseph Chesrown. His political support is given to the democratic party but he has no desire for office and aside from casting his ballot is not active in political circles. He prefers to give his undivided attention to his business affairs, which are capably conducted and are bringing to him substantial success.

Edgar A. McDowell, who officiates in the responsible position as assistant to P. A. Myers of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother of Ashland, was born here Apri] 25, 1875, a son of Alexander and Harriet (Pierce) McDowell, his father being a native of Ireland while his mother was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania. The nativity of the elder Mr. McDowell occurred in County Antrim in 1841 and, coming to the United States when a young man, he located in Erie county, Pennsylvania, where he was employed in the flax mills. There he met his bride and they were united in marriage in March, 1868. Coming to this city he had resided here but a short time when he organized the Ashland Flax Mill Company, with which he was identified until 1892. | His latter years were spent in the hay and grain trade. He departed this life in 1899, having survived his wife. who passed away in 1892, by seven years. A republican in politics he was always loyal to the candidates of his party and, being a man of a high religious temperament and an ardent believer in the teachings of the Scriptures, he held membership in the Presbyterian church, to which his wife

The public schools of this state afforded Edgar A. MeDowell his preliminary education, which he completed by taking a course in the high school. During his boyhood days, being ambitious to make his way in the world, he engaged in the newspaper business, securing? the agency for the Cleveland and Cincinnati daily papers, in partnership with his brothers. |The business proved lucrative. Mr. MeDowell dissolved his relations with his brothers when he was seventeen years of age and entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother, in a clerical capacity in which he officiated for three years, when he was promoted to the position of shipping clerk, serving there for four years, when he was made assistant to P. A. Myers, the duties of which office he has been performing for the past ten years.

Samuel 8S. Kahl

Samuel S. Kahl, who has devoted his entire life to general agricultural pursuits, is now living in Orange township where he owns and operates a farm of seventy-two acres. He was also for many years known as one of the leading threshers of the county, but now concentrates his energies upon the cultivation and care of his own crops. His life record began in Mohican township, Ashland county, on the 13th of June, 1850, his parents being Solomon and Catherine (Gill) Kahl, both of whom came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, to Ohio, with their respective parents in childhood days. The journey was made in wagons about the year 1829, for it was long prior to the era of railroad building. The entire surface of the country was covered with the native timber and the homes of the settlers were largely log cabins which were heated by tire places. There the cooking was also done, the kettles hanging from the crane over the blazing logs. All the hardships and privations of pioneer life had to be met, but there were also many pleasures and interests which are unknown at the present time. There was a spirit of good comradeship manifest which made a neighbor respond freely to the call of another for aid. Solomon Kahl was a blacksmith by trade and in addition to following that pursuit he gave much of his time and attention to general farming. His father, John Kahl, had been a weaver and worked at the loom in connection with tilling the fields. Solomon Kahl was reared to habits of industry and enterprise, early assisting in the arduous task of clearing and developing land. He lived to see a marked transformation in the county as the forests were cut down and the fields were brought under a high state of cultivation. His death occurred April 3, 1892, when he was well advanced in- years, and his wife survived until March 3, 1893. They were the parents of six children: John G., Susanna, Isaac W., Samuel S., Daniel M., and Lodema.

On-the old home farm Samuel S. Kahl was reared and is indebted to the public school system for the educational privileges he enjoyed. When a young living, but though he started out in life empty-handed he is now comfortably situated and his record proves what can be accomplished by unfaltering diligence and earnest, persistent effort.

As a companion and helpmate for life's journey, Mr. Kahl chose Miss Solena N. Shutt, a daughter of George and Susanna (Swaisgood) Shutt, who were farming people of Perry township but both are now deceased. They have two children, George S., who is married and lives in Richland; and Chloe E., who is a teacher.

Following his marriage Mr. Kahl began farming in Mohican township, where he lived for seven years. He then removed to Perry township where he spent three years, after which he came to Orange township where he has since made his home. Here he owns and cultivates a tract of land of seventytwo acres, the soil being rich and productive so that substantial crops are gathered as a reward of his earnest and diligent care. For thirty seasons he engaged in threshing and his services in that direction were in constant demand but he retired from that business in 1900 and now concentrates his energies upon his general farming and stock-raising interests.

In public relations Mr. Kahl is known for his loyal service and his effective work in behalf of general progress. He has been a trustee of Orange township for nine years and is still occupying that position. He has also been a member of the school board for some time and has done effective and valuable service as road supervisor for fifteen years. He is an advocate of the old school democracy and has been active in the work of the party, frequently serving as a delegate to its conventions, while his opinions carry weight in its local councils. He is in favor of public improvements in all lines of practical progress and is in every sense a worthy citizen whose devotion to the general good none question. His life is in consistent harmony with his professions as a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. His family also are identified with the church and all are active workers in the church and in the Sunday school, while Mr. Kahl is likewise serving as class leader. Upright and honorable, he holds to high standards in his relations of citizenship and in every walk of life, and the friendship which is so uniformly tendered him is the expression of the confidence and regard which his fellowmen have for him.

Levi Metcalf

Levi Metcalf, a highly respected farmer of Mohican township, who is living on section 29, was born August 27, 1845, on a farm comprising the northeast quarter of section 6, Lake township, Ashland.county. He is a son of Zebulon and Sarah (Leidigh) Metcalf, both of whom are natives of Pennsylvania, the former having been born in Washington county, January 3, 1816, while the latter's birth occurred in Cumberland county. In the year of his birth Zebulon Metcalf was brought by his parents to Ohio and they settled on a farm near the present home of Levi Metcalf. In this county Zebulon Metcalf spent his remaining days, busily occupied throughout his entire life with the work of the farm. He always lived in Mohican and Lake townships and his last days were spent in Mohicanville, where he passed away at the age of eighty-three years. He was the eldest in a family of six children, who were born unto Mr. and Mrs. John Metcalf. His father, also a native of Pennsylvania, became one of the first settlers in this part of the state and secured eighty acres of land which was covered with thick forest. This he cleared away and in the course of time improved his fields which he converted into a valuable property. His last days were spent in Lake township. His children were Zebulon, John, George, Nancy, Thomas and William. The occupation to which he was reared Zebulon Metcalf made his life work and as the years passed by he gained a goodly measure of success as the reward of his labor. His wife, who was the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Leidigh, passed away long prior to his death, for she was called to her final rest in 1869 at the age of forty-eight years. In their family were six children: John L., now deceased ; Elizabeth, who passed away in childhood; Levi, of this review; Curtis, who resides with his brother, Levi; Sarah Ann, who died when about eighteen years of age; and Mary Jane, the wife of M. L. Humm, who lives in the same neighborhood as Levi Metcalf.

On the farm in Lake township on which his birth occurred Levi Metcalf spent the first eight years of his life and accompanied his parents on their removal to the farm in Mohican township, upon which Henry Cosner now resides. There he continued until a year after his marriage, when he rented a farm in Lake township, removing thereto on the 23d of March, 1869. In February, 1870, he came to live with his brother in Mohican township, where he spent two years and in 1872 purchased his present farm, whereon he has since made his home, having a valuable tract of land of one hundred and eighty acres on sections 28 and 29, Mohican township. It borders Mohicanville on the Jeromeville road and situated about a mile and a half north of Mohicanville and three and a half miles south of Jeromeville. There were poor buildings upon the farm when it came into his possession but from time to time he has made substantial improvements. In 1878 he built a good barn thirty-six by eighty-four feet and in 1901 he added sixty-four by eighty-four feet to it. His present barn is one hundred by eighty-four feet and is one of the best in the county. In 1891 he erected a fine residence which is built of brick and contains twelve rooms. In fact it is the most beautiful country home in all Ashland county and all of the improvements on the farm are in keeping with it. He has secured the latest machinery to facilitate the work of the fields and every necessity and convenience is here found. His place is known as Highlawn Stock Farm, the name indicating much of the nature of his business, for in addition to the tilling of the soil he also raises stock of high grades and his entire time and attention are devoted to his farm.

Mr. Metcalf was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Leech, who was born in Mohican township, July 12, 1840, a daughter of Gilbert and Elizabeth (Shearer) Leech, who were natives of Pennsylvania. The wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf was celebrated on the 28th of November, 1867, and for more than forty years they traveled life's journey happily together but were separated in the death of the wife on the 4th of October, 1908. Three children had been born unto them: Mary Gertrude, who was born September 1, 1870, and died in November, 1890; Elza L., who was born May 24, 1876, and operates the home farm of his Pte and Got who was born January 1, 1883, and is the wife of D. L. C. Buchanan of Albion, Ohio, by whom she has one child, George.

Elza Metcalf wedded Dora Obrecht and they have three children, Marie, Florence and LaClair. The family is one of the prominent and widely known in the county and Mr. Metcalf is one of the foremost representatives of agricultural life in this portion of the state. He has not reached his present prosperity by leaps and bounds, but through that steady progress which ultimately reaches the objective point. He early learned to correctly value his own capacities and powers and to judge discriminately all those things which make up life's contacts and experiences. In all of his business affairs he has manifested sound judgment, knowing when and where and how he should exercise his energies, and as the years have gone by his success has come as the merited reward of earnest, honest labor.

William Aten

William Aten, who throughout his active business career has been identified with the agricultural interests of Montgomery township, was born on the farm where he still resides, his natal day being August 24, 1836. His father, John Aten, was a native of New Jersey, where his birth occurred October 1, 1795. The grandfather had entered three hundred and twenty acres of land in Ashland county, Ohio, which afterward was divided between his three sons, and immediately after his marriage John Aten made his way to this state, taking possession of his portion of the property - one hundred and six acres - about 1825. This farm has ever since remained in the family and is now owned and occupied by William Aten of this review. John Aten, the father of our subject, was educated in the common schools and always followed agricultural pursuits as a life work, also rearing his sons to the occupation of farming. He assisted in clearing his land of the timber and as the years passed brought the property under a good state of cultivation and improvement. His first home was a little cabin, while subsequently he lived in a log house and afterward erected a frame dwelling. He was a man of unfaltering industry and integrity and his labors proved an important factor in the early development and upbuilding of this county. He helped to lay out the roads and in fact was always found as the champion and supporter of every movement or measure calculated to advance the general welfare. His political allegiance was given to the democratic party and in religious faith he was a Presbyterian. On the 5th of February, 1824, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Jeffrey, whose birth occurred in Maryland, January 10, 1803, and the record of their children is as follows: Henry, a resident of Wyandot county, Ohio; John, of Richland county, Ohio; Richard, who makes his home in Wyandot cota this state; William, whose name initiates

William Aten attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education and has always resided in Montgomery township on the farm whereon he was born, having devoted his time and energies to the work of the fields throughout his entire business career. By reason of his energy, industry and close application he has met with a most gratifying and commendable measure of prosperity in his undertakings and is now the owner of three hundred and three acres of rich, productive and arable land in this county. He has added many excellent improvements to the home farm and in 1904 erected a handsome and modern residence, which is attractively located on an elevation and situated within three miles of Ashland. The dwelling is built of lumber taken from Mr. Aten's farm. The success which he now enjoys is entirely attributable to his own well directed labor and enterprise and he is widely recognized as a substantial, respected and representative resident of his native county. _

As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life Mr. Aten chose Miss Catherine Doty, by whom he has the following children: Joseph M., Eugene E., Minnie J., Myrtle M. and Samuel T. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the democracy and in religious belief is a Presbyterian. Throughout his entire life, or for almost three-fourths of a century, he has been a resident of this locality and is a worthy representative of one of the old pioneer families of the county, the name of Aten having long figured honorably in connection with the agricultural development of this section of the state.

David W. Leidigh

David W. Leidigh is a representative of one of the oldest and best known families of Ashland county. The name has ever stood as a synonym for reliable and progressive citizenship and the members of the family have on the whole been closely associated with the agricultural development and progress of this part of the state. David W. Leidigh was born November 28, 1860, in Mohican township, on a farm adjoining his present home. His parents were Peter and Rebecca (Snyder) Leidigh. The paternal grandparents were Peter and Elizabeth (Butt) Leidigh, who were natives of Pennsylvania but spent their last days in Ashland county, whither they came in pioneer times and were identified with the early development of this part of the state. Both had been married previously and had children by the former marriage, Mr. Leidigh having had four children by his first union, while Mrs. Leidigh had seven children. By their marriage there were born four children: Katharine, the wife of John Karnes; Sarah, who became the wife of Zebulon Metcalf; Levi; and Peter. Peter Leidigh was a native of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, born January 20, 1824, and when a youth of fourteen years he accompanied his parents to Jeromeville, where they established their home in 1838. He spent his remaining days in Mohican township as a farmer, owning and cultivating one hundred and sixty acres in the home place, while he also had another farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He won success by untiring diligence and determined purpose and was recognized as one of the leading and influential agriculturists of the community. It was on the 25th of November, 1855, that Peter Leidigh, Jr., was married to Rebecca Snyder. She was one of Ashland county's native daughters, her birth having occurred in Green township, May 30, 1834. Her parents were David and Mary (McManus) Snyder. They, too, were among the pioneer residents of this part of the state, sharing in all the hardships and privations incident to the establishment of a home on the frontier. At the time of their arrival they found here a district largely wild and unimproved. The forests stood in their primeval strength and only here and there was the sound of the woodman's axe heard, indicating that the work of development and progress had been begun. The early homes of the settlers were largely log cabins and it was an arduous task to cut away the trees, grub up the stumps and prepare the land for the plow, but with characteristic energy these worthy pioneer people continued their work and the result is seen today in the splendid farms for which Ashland county is justly noted. Peter Leidigh, Jr., devoted his attention to general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire life and thus provided for his family. He died at the old home in Mohican township, May 2, 1885. He was a member of the Reformed church; in the work of which he took a most active. and helpful part, serving for sometime as one of the elders. His wife also belonged to the Reformed church in Mohican and displayed in her life many traits of Christian character.

David W. Leidigh, their only child, has always resided in the neighborhood in which he now makes his home. He was reared to the occupation of farming, early becoming familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. He attended the public schools, wherein he acquired his education and through the vacation periods he worked in the fields. He is now the owner of the old home farm in addition to the farm upon which he now resides. They are adjoining properties, aggregating three hundred and twenty acres of land, constituting the south half of section 30, Mohican township. In 1898 he erected a commodious and pleasant residence containing ten rooms. 'There are other good buildings upon the place, including a large barn, forty by eighty-six feet. On the old homestead are the buildings which were erected by his father, including a residence of eight rooms and a barn thirty-six by one hundred feet. Everything about the place indicates the careful supervision and practical, progressive methods of the owner, who has kept in touch with the advancement in methods of farming and is now successfully engaged in raising both grain and stock. His whole time is devoted to his farm and his extensive interests are capably managed, bringing to him well merited and gratifying success.

On the 25th of December, 1883, Mr. Leidigh was married to Miss Ella Helbert, who was born in Vermillion township on the 19th of July, 1863, and is a daughter of Henry Helbert, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work. Two children grace this marriage: Bessie, now the wife of Clarence Arnhold of Mohican township; and Theron, at home. The parents hold membership bis the Reformed church of Mohicanville, of which Mr. Leidigh is an elder. His entire life has been upright and honorable, in consistent harmony with his professions. He has never been known to take advantage of the necessities of another in a business transaction but is always straightforward and honorable in his dealings, his record proving that prosperity and an honored name may be won simultaneously. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and loyalty, have called him to local offices, the duties of which he has discharged with promptness and fidelity. His record is in harmony with that of an honored and prominent pioneer family and cannot fail to prove of interest to many of our readers, for he has an extensive eircle of friends in this county. ;

Adam Ullman

Adam Ullman is now in the eighty-fifth year of his age, but although he has long since passed the Psalmist's span of three score years and ten he remains a factor in the business life of Loudonville, although to a large extent he has shifted the burdens of his earlier years to younger shoulders. He is. yet known, however, as a merchant and banker and in matters of business his judgment is sound, his discernment keen. What he has accomplished represents the fit utilization of his powers and opportunities and his life record shows what may be accomplished through persistent and earnest effort by one who is actuated by laudable ambition. No history of Loudonville would be complete without the record of Adam Ullman. He was born in Alsace, Germany, November 26, 1824, his parents being John and Katharine (Herzog) Ullman, who were likewise natives of the same district. Coming to America when their son Adam was three and a half years of age, they ultimately landed in New York after a voyage of seventy-two days on a sailing vessel. They then proceeded westward to Buffalo, New York, where they spent ten days, and from that point sailed to Cleveland, Ohio. A few days were there passed and then on the canal they continued their journey to Massillon and soon afterward made a location between that city and Canton, where the father purchased twenty acres of land. There were seven German families that had come to the new world at the same time, the heads of these households being Jacob Clouse, George Lewenguth, Michael Derrenbarger, Christman Young, Peter Lambert, John Ullman, and Jacob Muchler. Most of these men had large families and each secured twenty acres and, according to the old German custom, they erected their bake ovens, so that the locality became known as ''Bake Oven,'' and is so called today. After five years the seven families sold out and came to Loudonville in 1833. The Butler Hotel, a brick building, is the only structure that was here at the time. John Ullman entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the government in Washington township, Holmes county, Ohio, about a mile and a quarter southeast of Loudonville. There he built a log cabin and began clearing his land. His persistent labor enabled him soon to cut down the trees, grub up the stumps, and prepare the fields for cultivation and year by year he continued the work of improving his farm. His wife died at Bake Oven and her grave was made in Canton, Ohio. Before coming to Ashland county Mr. Ullman was again married his second union being with Katharine Derrenbarger. Although a mason by trade he followed farming during the greater part of his life and was closely associated with the agricultural development of this part of the state. Ilis death occurred in Holmes county, when he was seventy-four years of age. By his first marriage he had five children and by the second marriage there were nine children. Those of the first union were George, now deceased; John, Margaret and Peter, who have also passed away; and Adam.

Adam and Peter Ullman were twins and, as stated, were in their fourth year at the time of the emigration of the family to the new world. Adam Ullman was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life and resided with his father on the home farm until twenty-one years of age, when he came to Loudonville and established a grocery and saloon, conducting the place alone for six years. At the end of that time he sold out and started for California, in 1852, attracted by the discovery of gold on the Pacific slope. He went only as far as Louisville, Kentucky, however, and then returned. He spent the two succeeding weeks on construction work on the Fort Wayne Railroad, now a part of the Pennsylvania system. At the end of that time he entered the employ of Aaron Yammel, a dry-goods merchant, who was conducting business on the site of the Farmers Bank, of which Mr. Ullman is now one of the chief owners. He remained with Mr. Yammel for two years and then secured a situation in the store of Taylor and Larwill, general merchants, with whom he remained through the ensuing decade. During that time he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, constituting the farm adjoining that upon which he was reared and which had formerly been owned by his mother-in-law. In order to make the purchase he wisely saved his earnings and his industry and careful expenditure enabled him to make the last payment before he gave up his clerkship. In 1862 he began business on his own account as proprietor of a general store, which he conducted most successfully for twenty years, or until 1882, when he traded this and other property for a six hundred acre farm in Wyandot county, Ohio, valued at forty-five thousand dollars. It was regarded as the finest farm in the county and Mr. Ullman held it for some time, but subsequently disposed of it. He still owns two good farms, however, near Loudonville, and from his real-estate interests derives a substantial and gratifying income. Various business interests have felt the stimulus of his cooperation and have benefitted by his sound judgment. For about ten years he was engaged in the clothing business with Jacob Stitzel and then sold his interest to his son, who still continues in the enterprise under the firm style of Stitzel & Ullman. On the 6th of May, 1882, he and his son, Adam C., established a banking business under the name of the Farmers Bank of Loudonville, of which Mr. Ullman has since been the vice president. From the beginning this has been regarded as one of the reliable moneyed concerns of the county, having back of it gilt edge securities while the business is conducted along safe and conservative lines. In sie 1903, with other members of the family, he erected the Ullman Hotel, which ik an excellent hostelry for a town of this size. In all of hig business affairs he has displayed keen sagacity and intelligent appreciation of opportunities. He has utilized all the chances which have come to him for the successful conduct of business affairs and his energy and careful management have brought to him substantial and gratifying prosperity.

Mr. Ullman made preparation for having a home of his own when twentyone years of age, through his marriage to Miss Barbara Lambert, a native of Alsace, Germany, her parents being among the seven families that came to the United States in 1828 when the Ullmans crossed the water. For fifty-five years Mr. and Mrs. Ullman traveled life's journey happily together and were then separated by the death of the wife, who was born May 10, 1824, and passed away in 1901. In their family were eight children: Caroline, the deceased wife of Michael Scheff; Margaret, who died at the age of fourteen years; George A., former county treasurer and now a banker and manufacturer of Ashland; Minnie, the wife of W. S. Fisher, a merchant of Loudonville; Adam C., deceased ; Mary, the wife of Frederick Arnholt, of Lincoln, Nebraska; Adolph P., who is the junior member of the firm of Stitzel & Ullman; and Normanda, the deceased wife of Herbert Bean.

In his political views Mr. Ullman has always been a democrat, unfaltering in his allegiance to the party and its principles. He has filled the offices of township treasurer, township trustee, a member of the village council and also village treasurer, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He belongs to the German Lutheran church and for twenty years served as a member of its vestry. For long years he was most active in the church work but is now largely leaving its activities to younger men. Mr. Ullman is now in his eightyfifth year and is the oldest resident of Loudonville in the years of his connection with the town, and also the oldest business man here. For seventy-six years he has lived in the village, closely associated with all of its interests, and events which are to others matters of history are known to him through personal experience.

Jacob Kettering

Jacob Kettering, who is numbered among the successful and enterprising agriculturists of Green township, was born in Knox township, Holmes county, Ohio, April 1, 1841. His parents, Melchor and Christina (Price) Kettering, were both natives of Canton Pirmasens, Germany, the father's birth occurring July 25, 1815, while the mother first opened her eyes to the light of day on the 10th of January, 1815. They were married in this country and both passed away on the farm on which their son, J. F., now resides, Melchor Kettering dying October 10, 1887, at the age of seventy-two years, while his wife was called to her final rest on the 14th of April, 1893, when seventy-eight years of age. The record of their children is as follows: Henry, deceased; Jacob, of this review; Katharine, the wife of John Kaylor, of Wisconsin; Adam, who makes his home in Loudonville; Lany, the wife of Jacob Wolf, of Viola, Kansas; Elizabeth, the wife of Jonas Etzwiler, of Green township; John, who died in early life; and J. F., whose sketch appears on another page of this volume.

Jacob Kettering was reared on the old homestead place in Holmes county, remaining under the parental roof until twenty-three years of age, when he was 'married and came to his present farm of one hundred and fifty-two acres on sections 23 and 26, Green township, situated two and a half miles northwest of Loudonville. In addition to the work of general farming he is also engaged in stock raising and his indefatigable energy and untiring industry have brought him a well deserved measure of success in his undertakings.

On the 7th of April, 1864, Mr. Kettering was joined in wedlock to Miss Martha Hunter, whose birth occurred in Green township, Ashland county June 22, 1845, her parents being David and Katharine (Scholes) Hunter. A sketch of the father, who was a son of William and Jane (Steel) Hunter, given on another page of this work. The mother of Mrs. Kettering, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, was brought to this county by her parents, Joshua and Harriett Scholes, in her childhood days. Unto David and Katharine (Scholes) Hunter were born twelve children, of whom three died in infancy and one in childhood, and Mrs. Kettering is now the only surviving member of the family. By her marriage she has become the mother of the following children. David W., is at home. Emma J. is the wife of Earl Culler, of Ashland, Ohio. Adam wedded Miss Cora Brenschule and resides in Ashland. Charles F., a graduate of the Ohio State University, is an electrician and inventor of considerable ability, commanding an excellent salary .as an employe of the National Cash Register Company. He was united in marriage to Miss Olive Williams, by whom he has one son, Eugene Williams, and makes his home in Dayton. Daisy, the wife of Charles F. Hyde, of Cleveland, has one child, Frances.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Kettering has given his political allegiance to the democracy and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public honor and trust. He served as township trustee for five years, as county commissioner for six years, has likewise been a member of the township board of education and acted as jury commissioner for two terms. He is a faithful and consistent member of the Evangelical church of Loudonville and has an extensive circle of warm friends throughout the county who esteem him for his genuine personal worth and good traits of heart and mind.

William D. Otter

The Otter family since the year 1867 has been influentially connected with the progress of Ashland, and its members have been among those who have contributed largely to its present development and assisted in bringing about those changes which have given the city prominence in business and financial circles. Perhaps no citizen within its confines is more aggressive in his aspirations to see the city attain to greatness in all departments of enterprise than William D. Otter, and the energetic part which he takes in promoting and originating movements for its betterment is recognized throughout the vicinity. He holds a high place in commercial circles as proprietor of the Hotel Otter, which is the leading establishment of the kind in the city, being very popular and widely known throughout the state, its patronage being generally confined to the highest class, its service having won the establishment a reputation which is equal to any and surpassed by none within a wide radius. He was born here February 27, 1863, a son of Frederick William and Catherine (Micheal) Otter. His father, a native of Colburg, Prussia, born in 1834, came to the United States in 1861 and upon arriving in this country plied his trade as a locksmith and also followed that line on coming to this city, where he later purchased a brewery which he operated until he repaired to Wooster, where he, also bought out a brewery which he ran for, four years. At the expiration of that period he returned to this city and engaged in the saloon and restaurant business, in which he continued until he departed this life, January 19, 1874. A democrat politically, he was a stanch supporter of the principles of his party and always loyal to its candidates. Mrs. Catherine Otter, a native of Alsace, Germany, born February 26, 1823, was first united in marriage to John Herbrand and immediately after her marriage she removed to the United States with her husband, landing in New York city. where they remained for a time and then removed to Buffalo, from which place after a brief period they repaired by boat to Cleveland, and thence by wagon to this city, where her husband departed this life in 1861. To them were born eight children: John Sidney O.; Charley deceased; Jacob, deceased; Frank and Paul, twins, the former residing in Mansfield, Ohio, the latter being deceased; Anna, deceased; Clara, deceased ; and Delia, who is single and resides at home. Mrs. Herbrand later was united in marriage to Frederick William Otter, by whom she had one son, William D. Mrs. Otter has been identified with the restaurant business here since the year 1867, and still survives at the advanced age of eighty-six years.

William D. Otter was reared at home, acquiring his preliminary education in the public schools, and subsequently having the advantage of a two years' course of study in Ashland College. He next engaged in the jewelry business with Henry Van Tilberg, with whom he remained for about four years, and, his father's death having occurred about that time, he gave up this occupation and took charge of his father's saloon and restaurant business, when about eighteen years of age. Notwithstanding his youth he possessed a fund of good common sense and innate business ability which enabled him to at once take hold of the enterprise and conduct the business to exceptional advantage. In this he remained until he was twenty-one years of age, in the meantime having devoted one year to the meat business, and in 1902 his success in business had enabled him to secure sufficient means with which to construct the Otter Hotel, which is the leading hostelry in the city. He has since been engaged in conducting this business. It is widely known, not only throughout the city and immediate surroundings, but also throughout the entire state and as a hotel keeper he has an extended reputation which has drawn to his place of business an excellent class of patrons.

On December 22, 1881, Mr. Otter wedded Miss Henrietta Woods, of Ashland, by whom he had one daughter, Ethel Wilhelmina, bookkeeper and stenographer for the Safety Door Hanger Company. In May, 1890 Mr. Otter was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Jane Crippen, of this city, and to her have been born three children: Edna Wilhelmina, deceased; Gustave William ; and Frederick William. Mr. Otter is interested in all movements purposing to advance the commercial and financial welfare of the city, and is vice president of the Ashland Board of Trade and one of the leaders in the organization of the Commercial Club, both of which associations are devoted to enhancing the business possibilities of the community. Politically he is a democrat, always loyal to the candidates of his party and a stanch upholder of its principles, while as to his religious convictions, he belongs to the Disciples of Christ, the members of his family also belonging there. His excellent business ability and solicitation for the highest interests of the community have given Mr. Otter a wide reputation as a local promoter, and his sterling qualities of character, together with his upright life, have enabled him to gain a high place in the estimation and respect of his fellow citizens. He is also justly numbered among the substantial business men of the city.

Aaron L. Garber

Aaron Leedy Garber was born on a farm in Jefferson township, Richland county, Ohio, on the site of the first settlement of the Leedys in 1811. His parents were David and Susan (Leedy) Garber, the latter being a cousin of the paternal grandmother of our subject. Samuel Garber, the grandfather, married a daughter of the pioneer settler, John Leedy. Several of the ancestors of Aaron L. Garber emigrated to this country as religious refugees.

A. L. Garber spent the first twenty years of his life on a farm and did not permanently leave pastoral scenes until about ten years thereafter. He obtained his primary education in the country schools, afterward spent two winters in a high school and also studied for many weary hours at home in the evenings by the light of a tallow candle. At the age of twenty years he was called to the ministry by a congregation of his relatives called the Leedy Brethren, who held chiefly to the teaching of the Tunker fraternity. In 1875, in association with his brother, E. L. Garber, he purchased a small hand printing press, erected it in an upstairs bedroom, with a little type and other equipment, and there began a printing business. The first publication was called The Christian Guide. Two years later, in company with his brother, E. L. Garber, he launched the Bellville Star, which was sold after ten years. In the meantime he published the democratic paper in Shelby for a short time. In 1884 he located in Ashland, purchasing an interest in the Brethren Evangelist and publishing and editing that paper for about five years. In 1888 he began the publication of the Prophet Age, now in its twenty-first year ; in 1897 the Leedy Chronicle, a quarterly family paper in its twelfth year; and later the Mission Tidings, now in its eighth year. The first and last named are monthlies devoted to prophecy and Bible church interests. In 1908 he published a work of two hundred and eight pages on diet and health that is regarded as one of the most practical now in print. His printing plant on Orange street, Ashland, Ohio, is one of the largest and most complete in this section of the state and is occupied chiefly in commercial printing.

In polities he ig a stanch prohibitionist, converted from the democratic ranks in early manhood. For about six years, or from 1887 until 1893, he served as pastor of the Brethren church, occupying the chapel of Ashland College as a place of worship. Since this date other duties have prevented service regularly in the ministerial calling and at the present time he is working under the names of The Watch Mission and Church of Jesus Christ along lines not recognizing the denominational separation in the rank of the Christian faith as having a biblical right to exist; and he earnestly believes that a new and higher era in the history of men is now unfolding in the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. He also gives some attention to the development of a natural health food business.

In 1887 Mr. Garber was married to Miss Mary Etta Myers, a daughter of Henry K. and Hannah (Shoemaker) Myers, of Ashland. One son and two daughters make merry their home on Orange street. In early manhood Mr. Garber 'taught a term of school was instructor of classes in music, attended the winter session of a medical school in 1874-5 and also became quite proficient at carpentering and blacksmithing. Industry and not idleness has been the rule of his life and his career has been one of usefulness and activity. He has never indulged in a glass of any alcoholic beverage or a cup.of coffee and by right living, fair diet and the blessing of heaven has not been disabled by sickness for a single day during the last twenty-five years.

John Shelley

One of the most respected and honored of the early settlers is John Shelley, now eighty years of age. He was but a few months old when brought by his parents to Ohio and has since lived in this portion of the state. He was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, October 7, 1829, a son of Jacob and Mary (Raudebaugh) Shelley, who were natives of Cumberland and of Mifflin counties in Pennsylvania, respectively, the former born in 1798 and the latter in 1804. The Shelleys are of German descent and the grandfather, Jacob Shelley, was also a native of Pennsylvania. He wedded Elizabeth Snavely, who was born in the Keystone state and both passed away in Plain township, Wayne county, Ohio. He was lame and during the last twenty-five years of his life walked with two canes. He and his wife had a family of eight children, namely: Jacob, Abram, Michael, Elizabeth, Esther, Barbara, Katharine and Nancy. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Jacob Raudebaugh, who spent his entire life in Pennsylvania, his native state. His widow afterward came to Ohio and died in Wooster. They, too, were the parents of eight children: William, Daniel, Solomon, John, Peter, Elizabeth, Katharine and Mary. The father's death occurred in March, 1839, while his wife long survived him and passed away in June, 1880. Their family numbered six children: Daniel; Samuel; John ;.Elizabeth, who became the wife of Jacob Frick; Rebecca, who died at the age of twelve years; and Anna, the wife of B. H. Palmer.

John Shelley, who is the only living member of his father's family, came to Ohio with his parents and grandparents, who on the Ist of May, 1830, arrived in Plain township, Wayne county, at which time the grandfather purchased nine quarter sections of land. Both the grandfather and the father spent their remaining days in that township and there John Shelley resided until the spring of 1881, when he removed to Mohican township, where he lived until 1891. In that year he went to Logan county, Ohio, where he resided until 1894, when he returned to Ashland county and made his home in Montgomery township until 1900. At that date he removed to Perry township, a mile north of Jeromeville, and made it his place of residence until March 23, 1909, when he removed to Jeromeville, where he is now living retired. During his early life he gave his attention to the live-stock business, dealing in cattle and sheep, and after his sons reached mature years he turned his attention to general farming. He has walked and driven sheep from Wayne county, Ohio, to Hackettstown, New Jersey, within thirty-five miles of New York city. He has many times crossed the mountains on foot with his sheep and became well known on the way as a drover.

On the 30th of October, 1852, Mr. Shelley was united in marriage to Miss Katharine Smith, who was born in Chester township, Wayne county, Ohio, June 29, 1833. She was a daughter of John and Susanna (Lightfoot) Smith, who were natives of Maryland but were married in Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Shelley traveled life's journey together for more than fifty-six years and were then separated by the death of the wife, who passed away on their farm about a mile north of Jeromeville on the 21st of December, 1908. In their family were five children: E. F., a very prominent and influential citizen of this county ; Emma, who is the widow of W. B. Swarts and resides in Ashland; A. J., living in Akron, Ohio; Alice, the wife of H. J. Buffenmyre, of Perry township, Ashland count) and Maude, at home with her father.

Since the death of his wife Mr. Shelley has removed to Jeromeville. He is a democrat in politics, having been identified with the party since casting his first presidential vote for Franklin Pierce in 1852. He remembers well the presidential campaign of 1840 when William Henry Harrison was elected. He has for several terms served as assessor and as treasurer of Plain township, Wayne county. He has a remarkable memory for details and relates many interesting incidents concerning the early days. He can remember every school teacher to whom he went, when they taught and how old he was at the time. He first attended school in a little log cabin but in 1839 a stone schoolhouse was erected and the first district in Plain township was organized. Mr. Shelley attended there through the winter months until twenty-one years of age and one teacher had between eighty and one hundred pupils, at which time he made all the copies and mended all the pens, for goose quills were at that time used as a writing utensil. Those were the good old days of simplicity and sunshine when all enjoyed themselves. Mr. Shelley lost his father when quite young and worked out by the month through the summer seasons, while the winter months were passed on the home farm. He was thus employed from the time he was able to earn two dollars per month until he was able to earn nine dollars per month, which was the largest amount of wages he received. He has mowed all day with a scythe for fifty cents per day and has done other arduous work for an equally small wage, for little money was in circulation at that time. In 1850 he crossed the plains to California, where he engaged in digging gold one summer and then returned by way of Central America and crossed Nicaragua Lake on the second trip that was made by the first boat there.

In June, 1856, Mr. Shelley united with the Disciple church, with which he has since been actively identified, being one of the faithful workers in the church. He was made a Master Mason at Wooster, Ohio, August 1191852. His stories of pioneer times and conditions are most interesting and give a correct picture of life on the frontier. For seventy-nine years he has been associated with the development of this part of the state, witnessing its wonderful transformation as it has been converted from a wild forest region into one of rich fertility, highly cultivated fields being seen on all hands.