Ashland City (part 55 of 57)

Gregory C. Henley

Gregory C. Henley, who is now giving his attention to the supervision of his invested interests, was well known for many years as a successful merchant and previously as a representative of industrial interests. His life record is that of a man who has always found that daily duties have fully claimed his time and attention and who in their performance has gained the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens and won the substantial success which follows persistency of purpose well directed. Ohio numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in Taylorville, Muskingum county, October 25, 1843. His parents were Gregory and Barbara (Boeshertz) Henley, natives of Germany. The mother's birth occurred in Alsace, a part of that disputed district which has now belonged to Germany, now to France, as the fortunes of war have diverted it first one way and then another. The family name was originally spelled ''Henle'' but the father of our subject added the final y. He 'erossed the Atlantic to New York when seventeen years of age and the lady who afterward became his wife made the voyage to the new world with her parents when eight years of age, the family home being established in Knox county, Ohio. They were married in Zanesville, this state, and spent the remainder of their days in that vicinity, both passing away on the farm in Knox county where the boyhood days of Gregory C. Henley were spent. The father had one hundred and sixty acres of land and was an enterprising, intelligent man, who gave to his children good school advantages, realizing how important and valuable is education as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. Unto him and his wife were born seven children: Genevieve began teaching at the age of eighteen years and followed that profession until the time of her marriage to Francis Durbin. She is now a widow and resides at Barberton, Ohio. Elizabeth, who remained at home and assisted in the household duties until her marriage to Absalom Durbin, a cousin of Francis Durbin, is also now a widow and resides in Warsaw, Indiana. Gregory C. is the next of the family. Charles, who owns the old home place and a tract of forty acres beside, has been identified with the educational interests of the county, having taught in the country schools for thirty winter seasons. Louis is a grocer of Toledo, Ohio. Caroline is the wife of Peter Allerding, of Mount Vernon. Albert James is conducting an extensive real-estate business in Mount Vernon.

Gregory C. Henley when eight years of age removed with his parents from Muskingum county, Ohio, to a farm six miles south of Loudonville in Knox county, bordering the Ashland county line. There he remained until twenty years of age when he came to Loudonville and for a time was employed by A. A. Taylor. Later he was connected with the Northwestern Milling Company for about twenty years. His father was a cooper by trade and in early life he began learning the business. He was afterward sent to Perrysville where he conducted a branch for the mill which Mr. Taylor owned. He came from that place to Loudonville where he conducted a cooper shop for Mr. Taylor and later was sent to Toledo to conduct his cooperage business in connection with mills there. Later he again came to Loudonville and during this period drifted into the millwright business which he followed until eighteen years ago for Mr. Taylor and the stock company which succeeded to his interests. In 1890, however, he started out upon an independent venture as a dealer in implements, forming a partnership with R. E. Byers under the firm style of Byers & Henley, which connection continued for fifteen years. Mr. Henley then sold his interest and since that time has given his attention to the supervision of his real estate and other personal investments. In his business affairs as the years have gone by he has won substantial prosperity and is now comfortably situated in life.

In October, 1870, Mr. Henley was married to Miss Anna J. Buckingham, who was born in Knox county, Ohio, March 28, 1841, and is a daughter of Daniel and Rebeeca (Bricker) Buckingham, who removed from Pennsylvania to Knox county, Ohio. The Buckinghams came originally from Virginia. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Henley are five in number but Charles, the eldest, died at the age of twelve years. Albert, who was graduated from the high school and for ee Sa elne the shoe store of J B. Long, married Mildred Sapp and the; children, Justin Constantine and Claude. Bernard died in infancy. Celsus is a clerk in the clothing store of Straus & Anholdt, of

The parents are members of St. Peter's Catholic church. In his political views Mr. Henley is a democrat and has served for a number of years in the town council, acting as chairman of various important committees. He has also been president of the board of public affairs since the beginning of 1908. He has been called upon to settle a number of estates and in all of these positions of trust has shown himself worthy the confidence and regard reposed in him.

John W. Murphy

An active and useful life has brought John W. Murphy to a creditable position as a representative of agricultural interests in Ashland county. He now owns and cultivates ninety-two acres of land in the home place, on section 24, Green township, and in addition he has much other valuable property from which he derives a substantial annual income. His birth occurred in Green township on the 6th of October, 1872. He is a son of George Steward Murphy and a grandson of Manluf Murphy. The latter was born in Delaware in 1800 and in that state was reared to manhood. JHe there married Elizabeth Tomlinson, also a native of Delaware, and in the year 1833 they removed to Ohio, Manluf Murphy entering a small tract of land of forty acres about a mile north of Loudonville in Green township, Ashland county. He was in very straitened financial circumstances but his capably managed business affairs, his judicious investments and his unfaltering industry brought to him gratifying prosperity so that at the time of his death he was the owner of a large farm and also had money out at interest. Both he and his wife spent their remaining days in this county. Their children were George Fisher; Mrs. Sena Ann Fox; Sarah Elizabeth; Louisa; Manluf; one who died in infaney; and George S., who completed the family.

George S. Murphy was born April 12, 1840, on the old homestead farm entered by his father from the government and situated about a mile north of Loudonville. His entire life was passed in Green township and he died near the place of his birth January 10, 1904. His education was acquired in the public schools and he remained at home with his parents until his marriage, on the 10th of August, 1871, to Miss Martha Ellen White, who was born December 24, 1845, in Green township, about three and a half miles north of Loudonville, where she had always resided. She is a daughter of John and Mary (Martin) White, the former born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in September, 1800, and the latter in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in September, 1807. John White had come to Ohio as a young man and had here entered eighty acres of land. He was accompanied by his brother, William, who also entered a tract in the same neighborhood. John White then spent his remaining days in the development and further improvement of the land which he had claimed. ~ He also added to it until he had about two hundred acres at the time of his death, all of which were well improved, while upon it was a good brick dwelling. He was a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church and believed strongly in the abolition cause, but the church did not allow their members to vote. When about thirty years of age he wedded Mary Martin, a daughter of Isaac and Jane (Wiley) Martin, who were natives of Pennsylvania and came from Washington county, that state, to Ohio. Mr. Martin died in this county while his widow afterward went to the home of a son in Wisconsin and there passed away. Mrs. White accompanied her parents to Ohio in 1812, at which time the family home was established on Honey creek, in Green township, near the Greentown blockhouse in which they took refuge when the Indians were on the war path. Although the red men visited the county during her girlhood days she lived to witness great changes, seeing this district transformed into a thickly settled and prosperous region, supplied with all the conveniences and manifestations of modern civilization known to the older east. The death of Mr. White occurrea April 30, 1871, while his widow survived until January 30, 1881. They were the parents of nine children: Sarah Jane Jamison, who died in 1861; Mrs. Eliza Ann Rowan, of Wisconsin; Mrs. Margaret McFarland, who died in Indiana; Mrs. Mary Gregg, a resident of Eaton county, Michigan; John, who died at the age of four years; Thomas, who died in California; Mrs. Nancy Emeline White, who resides in Green township; Mrs. Murphy, the mother of our subject ; and Olive, who lives with Mrs. Murphy.

Following his marriage George S. Murphy began farming on his own account and for about seven years cultivated rented land, during which time he carefully saved his earnings and as the result of his industry and economy was then enabled to purchase a farm. In time he became the owner of two farms, embracing together one hundred and eighty-four acres of land, and in addition has two acres where his widow now resides, about a half mile north of Loudonville. He worked diligently to attain his success and his well directed efforts brought him a substantial competence. When sixteen years of age he united with the Methodist Episcopal church of Loudonville and remained one of its active members until his death. He assisted in building the present house of worship and contributed liberally to the support of the church. In politics he was a stanch republican but would never consent to hold office, save that of school director. He was actively interested in temperance work and his influence was always on the side of those movements which uplift -and benefit humanity. He died January 10, 1904, leaving to his son the priceless heritage of an untarnished name, as well as considerable valuable property.

John W. Murphy was reared under the parental roof and remained with his parents until 1894, when he turned his attention to railroading and was thus engaged for ten years on the Indiana & Fort Wayne Railroad. At the time of his father's death, however, he returned to the old homestead and has since given his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He has a farm of ninetytwo acres on section 24, Green township, also owns fifty-two acres in another farm on section 13, Green township about a mile and a half from the first place, and forty acres on section 36, so that his aggregated holdings cover one hundred and eighty-four acres of land that is rich and arable. He carries on general farming and stock raising and his place presents a neat and thrifty appearance, indicating his practical and progressive methods of carrying on his work.

In 1893 Mr. Murphy was united in marriage to Miss Susan Cosner, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Frederick Cosner. In his political views Mr. Murphy is a republican, supporting the men and measures of the party, yet without desire for office as a reward for party fealty. He represents one of the old families in the county, the Murphys having been known here for seventy-six years. They have always been rated as good citizens, giving their influence in support of progressive public measures, and John W. Murphy, his father, and grandfather, stand for all that is best in the line of human activities.

Joseph B. Brinton

Joseph B. Brinton has for thirty-three years been station agent at Ashland and moreover has an excellent record as a veteran of the Civil war. These facts alone would entitle him to representation in this volume but in other ways as well he has contributed to public progress and improvement through his cooperation with many movements for the general good. He was born November 10, 1838, in Champaign county, Ohio. He was only four years of age when his father died and was left an orphan at the age of seven by the death of his mother. He was then taken by a family who thought education was of little consequence and his school privileges were, therefore, very limited. Realizing the necessity and value of intellectual training, however, Mr. Brinton has largely counteracted the deficiency of his early years by his own reading and study. He has made his own way in the world from the age of seven for when with the family who took him he fully earned his living in the performance of the services which they required of him. At length he became tired of the treatment which he received and when fourteen years of age he ran away and came to Middleburg, Ohio. He worked at farm labor through the summer and then engaged to drive a herd of cattle from Urbana, Ohio, to Springfield, Iowa, spending thirty days upon the road. In the fall and spring he took up the task of learning the carpenter's trade at which he served three years' apprenticeship and then went to Peoria, Illinois, where he was employed to do fine joiner work on one of the best business blocks in Peoria, at a time when all such work was done by hand. In 1861 he went to Indiana and was one of the first to manifest his love of country by the offer of his services as a soldier of the Civil war.

It was in April, 1861, that Mr. Brinton enlisted as a member of Company G, Ninth Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry under Captain G. C. Moody and Colonel R. H. Milroy, who was afterward promoted to major general. His first enlistment was in response to the call for three months troops and he served in West Virginia, taking part in the battle of Philippi, the first set engagement of the war with small loss of men, He was afterward at Carrick's Ford which was the heaviest engagement which the regiment participated in during the three months service. At the end of his first 'enlistment Mr. Brinton returned home and was mustered out but immediately reenlisted at Laporte, Indiana, in the same company and regiment which was simply reorganized and immediately returned for duty. When they again reached West Virginia the Ninth Indiana Regiment took part in a number of like battles and spent the first winter at Cheap-Mountain Summit, West Virginia. From that point' they were ordered westward, joined the Army of the Cumberland under General Buell and immediately engaged in the battle of Shiloh but Mr. Brinton was left behind because of illness. Some days later he rejoined his regiment and from that time on participated in all of its engagements and was promoted from the ranks from time to time until he received a captain's commission and commanded Company G. At the battle of Lovejoy Station he was acting as assistant adjutant general on the staff of General William Gross. At the battle of Stone River he was wounded and captured and was taken at last to Libby prison, being exchanged at City Point about thirty days after his capture. He was at that time serving as second lieutenant. During his incarceration in Libby prison he purchased a paper and in it was a proclamation issued by Jefferson Davis, stating that no commissioned officer could be exchanged until further orders. Lieutenant Brinton at once saw that he would have little chance of exchange under those conditions. Luckily he was at the time in fatigue uniform and told his comrades to address him as sergeant. This allowed him to be exchanged. He participated in the memorable battle of Chickamauga and at its close at Snodgrass Hill he was slightly wounded in the leg. Following the battle of Stone River and his release from Libby prison his company presented him with a fine sword which Captain Brinton most honorably defended throughout the remainder of the war. It is yet in his possession, a precious memento of his army life. On account of the wounds he had received at the battle of Lovejoy station where he was injured in the left arm, losing the use of that member almost entirely, he was mustered out of the service December 24, 1864.

Following his return home Captain Brinton engaged in the dry-goods and grocery business but in 1865 turned his attention to railroad interests, first as -clerk and telegrapher. In 1867 he became agent at Mingo, Ohio, on the Erie Railroad and has been in railroad service from that time to the present, acting as agent at Ashland for nearly thirty-three years. He is a man, competent and popular officially, winning many friends by reason of his uniform courtesy, while the company has the utmost faith in his ability and fidelity. He was one of the organizers and for two years the secretary of the Ashland Building & Loan Association, which is still doing good business. He was for two years a member of the school board and was its treasurer for one year. He was likewise one of the charter members of the Ashland Board of Trade and its first president, serving for two terms, while for two years he was also its secretary and at the present writing is one of its directors. He has contributed very largely to the upbuilding and prosperity of Ashland, has rejoiced in its substantial growth and has every reason to be proud of the advancement made by his home town. He has been instrumental in securing the establishment of such industries as the Rubber Works, the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company and the Reliable Match Company, all of which are factors in the business activity and growth of the city.

On the 6th of June, 1867, Captain Brinton was united in marriage to Miss Lydia A. Pennington, who was born October 31, 1845, in Champaign county, Ohio, a daughter of Heaton and Lydia Pennington. Captain and Mrs. Brinton have become parents of four daughters: Mrs. Berta Hughes, of Toledo; Edna, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Mrs. Mary Tubbs, of Ashland; and Mrs. Florence Litchfield, living in Akron, Ohio. The daughters were provided with excellent educational advantages. All attended the Ashland high school and Berta is a graduate of Baldwin University of Berea, Ohio. Edna was graduated at St. Mary's of the Springs Convent, receiving the gold medal in art and literature. Mary also attended that convent for a year and received the silver medal for scholarship but on account of difficulty with her eyes was obliged to suspend her studies. Later, however, she spent three months in the business college at Akron, Ohio, and immediately afterward entered the employ of the Wheeling & Lake Erie and of the Cleveland, Toledo & Pittsburg Railroad Companies. She thus served for twelve years and was promoted from time' to time until she became chief clerk in the claim department, holding the position until her marriage. Florence was graduated from the Ashland high school and spent one year in the high school at Toledo with the intention of pursuing a course in the Michigan University at Ann Arbor but scarlet fever obliged her to give up her studies for sometime. She afterward spent a year in Lake Erie College and then pursued a thorough course in the Commercial College at Toledo. She was a bookkeeper for the Times-Gazette for about one year and was then married. Captain and Mrs. Brinton are held in high esteem in Ashland where they have so long resided. His life in all of its different phases has been upright and honorable, characterized by a progressive and helpful citizenship, a reliability and faithfulness in business and loyalty to the ties of home and friendship.

Henry J. Neptune

That Ashland county has many attractions for her native sons is indicated in the fact that a large percentage of those who have been born within her borders have remained to enjoy the opportunities she offers in her natural resources and in her business conditions. Among this number is Henry J. Neptune who was born September 16, 1846, on the farm which he yet occupies and now owns. He ~has always remained here and the day is busily employed in the cultivation of sixty-six acres of land. His parents were John and Nancy (McCullough) Neptune. The former was born in Virginia in 1802 and the latter in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in January, 1804. He was a son of William and Elizabeth (Poland) Neptune. The latter died in 1805, in Virginia and William Neptune afterward wedded Lydia Beman. By his first marriage he had two daughters and one son. He and his second wife moved to Indiana, where they passed away. The mother of our subject was a daughter of John and Stacy (Dunn) McCullough, who were natives of Pennsylvania, but died in Holmes county, Ohio. In his youthful days John Neptune went with his parents to

Maryland and afterward came with them to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1818. His wife arrived in this county in 1819 and when they had reached adult age they were married in 1824. In 1830 they located on the farm which is now the home of their son Henry Jerome and it remained their place of residence until they were called to their final rest. The father died April 29, 1864, while the mother passed away in May, 1878. He entered two hundred acres of land from the government. It was entirely wild and unimproved and there in the midst of the green woods he built a cabin and began the development of his fields. In addition to this property he at one time owned another tract of two hundred and sixty-eight acres. His entire life was given to farm work and in the course of years his diligence and perseverance enabled him to convert the wild land into rich and productive fields. He lived a life of well directed energy and perseverance and when he had passed away the county lost one of its worthy and representative citizens. His widow survived him until 1878. He was a deacon in the Baptist church, having held that office for many years. His wife was also an earnest Christian and shared with him in his interests in the work of the church. His political allegiance was given to the democracy. Unto Mr. and Mrs, John Neptune were born twelve children: Lydia, the deceased wife of William Hannon; John, who died in Richland county, Ohio; William, living in Chanute, Kansas; Rebecca Ellen, who resides on the home farm, owning thirty-four acres which are operated by her brother; Sarah Jane, who died in 1851 at the age of eighteen years; Isaac, who is living in Parsons, Kansas; James, a resident of Loudonville; Joseph, who died in 1851; Lucinda, who died in 1851 at the age of twelve years; Jeals Abrilla, who passed away in the same year; Nehemiah, residing in Knox county, Ohio; and Henry J. The four children who passed away in 1851 died of scarlet fever within four days of each other.

Henry J. Neptune was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, his time being divided between the work of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground, and the tasks which were assigned him upon the home farm. He now has sixty-six acres of land and carefully studies the best methods of carrying on the farm work. His fields are richly cultivated, bringing forth abundant harvests for he raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and practices the rotation of crops.

As a companion and helpmate for life's journey Mr. Neptune chose Miss Sophia Shoup, whom he wedded in January, 1871. She was born in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1850 and is a daughter of John and Nancy Shoup, both of whom died on the old farm in Holmes county, where they had reared their family of twelve children. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Neptune has been blessed with one child, Ardella M., who is the wife of G. H. Stafford and resides near Hayesville. Mr. and Mrs. Stafford have a daughter, Mildred.

In his political views Mr. Neptune is a democrat who, believing in the principles of the party, gives to it firm and stalwart support. Since J anuary, 1904, he has been a trustee of Green township and has served on the school board for about fifteen years, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion who believes in the employment of competent teachers and the establishment of good schools. He was also supervisor of roads for a number of years. He holds membership in the Baptist church of Loudonville with which he has been continuously connected since 1865. Thus for forty-four years he has endeavored to conform his life to its teachings and there is no greater proof of his honorable, upright manhood than the fact that he enjoys the unqualified esteem, confidence and good will of all who know him.

Conrad Reaser

Conrad Reaser, who in his farming and stock-raising interests has met with a measure of prosperity that entitles him to recognition among the substantial and representative citizens of Milton township, was born on the 7th of September 1844. His parents were Thomas and Christiana (Frauenfeler) Reaser, the former born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1815, while the latter's birth occurred July 15, 1818.

About 1869 Thomas Reaser made his way from the Keystone state to Ashland county, Ohio, purchasing about fifty acres of land in Milton township, on which he erected a substantial residence and barn and also placed all necessary improvements. He was a stone mason by trade and worked at the occupation at intervals in addition to general farming. He served his fellow townsmen in the positions of trustee and supervisor for several terms and was widely recognized as a leading and influential citizen of the community, his cooperation being given to all movements and measures calculated to promote the general welfare. He passed away on the 7th of May, 1899, while his wife was called to her final rest on the 10th of June, 1897, the county thus losing two of its most respected and esteemed residents, who by reason of their upright and honorable lives had gained the regard and friendship of all with whom they were associated. Their marriage was celebrated in 1836 and the record of their children is as follows: Conrad, of this review; Jacob, whose birth occurred December 9, 1846, and Mrs. Looma Brinker, who was born December 26, 1838, and died August 14, 1895.

Conrad Reaser remained at home until the death of his parents, looking after their interests and caring for them in their declining years. When both his father and mother had been laid to rest he took up his abode on an adjoining farm, which was the property of his father-in-law, Daniel Fisher, but which has since come into his possession. Here he is devoting his attention to the pursuits of general farming and stock raising, making a specialty of sheep, and his industry, close application and capable management have insured him a gratifying measure of success in his undertakings. In early manhood he learned the blacksmith's trade but has been identified with agricultural interests throughout practically his entire business career. He has erected a handsome new residence and his farm commands a splendid view of the surrounding country.

On. the 13th of August, 1874, Mr. Reaser was united in marriage to Miss Harriett Fisher, a daughter of Daniel and Harriett (Zerby) Fisher. Her

-father, who was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1815, came to Ashland county about 1836 and bought a farm of one hundred and eight acres, in the cultivation and improvement of which he was successfully engaged until called to the home beyond. His political allegiance was given to the democracy, while in religious faith he was a Lutheran. He reared a family of six daughters and six sons, of whom eight still survive, Mrs. Reaser being the fourth in order of birth. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reaser have been born three children, namely: Lovina E., born August 1, 1876, who became the wife of Joseph H. Lash, and passed away February 7, 1907; Thomas C., born August 26, 1878, who wedded Miss May Castle; and Amon E., who was born April 19, 1882, and now resides in Ashland with his wife, who bore the maiden name of Cleo Redding.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Reaser has cast his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democracy and is a publicspirited and valued citizen. He and his family are devoted and faithful members of the Disciple church at Ashland and are well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which they reside.

A. R. Plank

A. R. Plank, sole proprietor of the Jeromeville Mill, has given his entire life to this line of business, in which he has met with well merited success. He is energetic and determined in all his business affairs and his capable management of his interests is evidenced in the success which is now attending his labors. He was born July 20, 1856, about two miles-east of Wooster, in Wayne county, Ohio, and was the youngest in family of fourteen children whose parents, Abram and Nancy (King) Plank were both natives of Pennsylvania, and both were members of large families. The father's people were cabinetmakers and millers for several generations. The parents of our subject were married in Wayne county, where the father carried on milling for some time. At the time of the birth of A. R. Plank he was engaged in the milling business in Wooster, Ohio. In 1858 he removed to Lake township, Ashland county, having purchased the Rochester Mills, on the Mohican. He owned both mills and when the Plank Mills, near Wooster, burned, with no insurance, he came to his Rochester Mills, which he operated until 1870. While living there the wife and mother died, A. R. Plank being at that time seven years of age. Later the father married again, but had no children by that union. He was of the Omish faith, while his first wife was a Dunkard in her religious belief, His death occurred at Orrville, Ohio. Of the family of fourteen children, nine reached years of maturity: Benjamin, Hiram, David; Samuel, Levi, J emima, Malissa, Ellen, and A. R. Of this family David became a blacksmith, but the other sons were all millers and the daughters were all good bakers.

A. R. Plank was only about two years of age when his parents removed to Lake township, Ashland county, and there he remained until about 1870, assisting his father in the operation of the Rochester Mills as soon as old enough. About 1870, however, he went to Salem, Ohio, where he worked for a year and then went to Wooster, Ohio, where the brothers, Abraham and Hiram, had purchased a mill. He remained with them three years and ten months, after which he spent about two years as an employ in a mill at Ada, Ohio.. During that time his employer, his wife and child, died of typhoid fever, after which Mr. Plank and Mr. Shaw leased the mills, which they operated until they were sold. Mr. Plank then went to Nashville, Tennessee, where he remained for eight months,later returning to Wooster where he was employed temporarily about six months. Going to Navarre, Ohio, he there established a mill for Frank Peacock and after two months went to Galion, Ohio, where he took charge of a mill which his brother had purchased, spending seven years at that place. During that time he bought the present Jeromeville mill in connection with his brother-in-law, James Harpster, and the firm of Plank & Harpster existed until 1902, since which time the former has been sole proprietor. He has replanked the dam and increased the capacity of the mill from fifty to seventy barrels, and established the Micle system. The mill is now in good shape, having been equipped after modern methods and both a. custom and merchant trade is -earried on. Mr. Plank turns out all kinds of milling products, having the only mill in the county which manufactures rye and buckwheat flour. It was operated by water power until recent date but is now a steam mill.

In 1880, in Wooster, Ohio, Mr. Plank was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Spear, who was born and resided in Wooster, a daugter of Fletcher and Charlotte (Watt) Spear, the former a native of Wooster, Ohio, and the latter of Scotland. His father was one of the pioneers of Wooster, coming to this state from Pennsylvania and had the first furniture and undertaking establishment in that place. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Plank have been born three sons: Walter E., who is now in partnership with his father under the firm style ef A. R. Plank & Son, married Miss Lucy Alleman, a native of Jeromeville, and a daughter of Charles T. Alleman: Ralph C. and Paul E., the younger sons, are in school. Mr. Plank has lived a life of industry and his unremitting diligence has brought to him the success which he now enjoys. He is at the head of a good business and has a well established plant, everything about his place exemplifying the spirit of progress which is characteristic of modern milling methods. His products are of excellent quality and command for him a liberal patronage and a constantly increasing sale.

Reuben R. Hunter

The farming interests of Ashland county find a worthy representative in Reuben R. Hunter, who is now living on section 26, Green township, his place being pleasantly located about one and a half miles north of Loudonville, on the Hayesvillé road. It was upon this farm that his birth occurred July 13, 1860, and it is therefore endeared to him through the scenes of his boyhood as well as of later years. In the paternal line he comes of Irish ancestry. His grandparents were William and Jane ( Steel) Hunter. The latter was a 'jJaughter of James Steel, a resident of Greensboro, Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio and: entered the land whereon Reuben Hunter now resides and later willed it to his daughter, Jane. The former was a native of Ireland and when sixteen years of age bade adieu to friends and native country that he might seek a home and fortune beyond the Atlantic. Soon after his arrival in the new world he came to Ashland county. His wife was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and they arrived in this county in 1818, locating on what has since been known as the old Hunter homestead, where they spent their remaining days, both passing away in 1821, there being only about six months difference in the time of their deaths. On their removal from Pennsylvania "they had brought with them a few household goods and they built a little cabin on a site that would now be in the public highway. They experienced all the hardships and privations of pioneer life, but were willing to endure this in order to secure a home for themselves and family. All of their children were born in Pennsylvania with the exception of one. Their eldest child, Betsey, became the wife of Pellem Cook and after his death married Charles Dewalt. Mary, the second daughter, became the wife of Chadwick Bowen. Eliza became Mrs. Avery. Peggy married William Lincoln. Jane married Isaac Barger, and the sons were David, William, James and John, the last named being born in this county. Something of the condition that existed here at the time of the arrival of the Hunter family is manifest in the fact that Indians were frequent visitors in the neighborhood and two of the sons of the family, John and David Hunter, killed an old Indian chief, known as Captain Pipe, who went to their home and boasted that he had the tongues of twelve white men and wanted one more, after which he would be satisfied. The boys felt that they could prevent the sacrifice of another white man, went after him, shot him and buried him on the farm now occupied by Reuben Hunter. His bones were afterward dug up and taken away as relics.

The parents of our subject were John and Mary (Dowell) Hunter. The former was born on the old home farm in 1821, being the youngest of his father's family, and his entire life was spent in the immediate vicinity of his birthplace. His wife's birth occurred near Nashville, Ohio, in 1832. He became an extensive farmer, for as the years passed he carefully conducted his business affairs and his capable management and judicious investment enabled him to become the owner of about fifteen hundred acres of land which he left to his family at his demise. He cleared and improved a large portion of this and was thus closely associated with the agricultural development of the county. He died in 1900, while his wife passed away in 1904. John Hunter and his wife were the parents of seven children, namely: John, a resident of Green township; David, a farmer and stock dealer of Perrysville; Amos, residing in Richland county ; Lewis, living in Green township; Reuben R., of this review; Mary; and J ane, the widow of John Rowe, of Perrysville.

The entire life of Reuben R. Hunter has been passed in the township where his birth occurred and he has always given his attention to general agricultural pursuits. He now owns and operates eighty-nine acres of good land which responds readily to the care and labor bestowed upon it. His father erected the house which is here seen and Mr. Hunter of this review built the barn. The place is supplied with modern equipments, including the latest improved machinery with which to facilitate the work of the fields. Everything about

In 1883 Mr. Hunter was united in marriage to Miss Mary Wentz, who died in 1898 leaving three children: Etta, deceased; Stella, the wife of Clyde Cowell, of Perrysville; and Arthur C., at home. In 1901 Mr. Hunter was again married, his second union being with Miss Mary McMahon, who was born in Donegal, Treland, in 1868 and came to the United States in 1897. There are two children by this marriage, Ruth and Edna. Mr. Hunter gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and while he always supports its candidates he has never desired political preferment, as he wishes to give his entire time and attention to his business affairs. In the capable conduct of his farm he is meeting with good success, the place bringing to him a substantial annual income as a reward for his labor. He belongs to one of the oldest and best known families of this part of the county, a family always closely associated with the development and progress of their locality.

Francis E. Myers

There are found many men whose industry has won them success - men who by their perseverance and diligence executed well defined plans which others have made - but the men who take the initiative are comparatively few. The vast majority do not see opportunities for the coordination of forces and the development of new, extensive and profitable enterprises, and therefore must follow along plans which others have marked out. Francis E. Myers, however, does not belong to the designated class. The initiative spirit is strong within him. He has realized the possibilities for the combination of forces and has wrought along the line of mammoth undertakings until the name of Myers stands as a foremost representative of industrial life in Ashland county and is known throughout the entire world, for his products are sent into almost every civilized country. He is today prominent among the captains of industry - an example to the growing youth. Reared as a farm boy, with no educational opportunities above those offered by the country schools, he has wrought along lines that have proven of immense benefit to the community as well as a source of substantial individual profit. He is today widely known as president and general manager of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother, manufacturers of pumps and hay tools, the business being the most extensive of this character extant.

Mr. Myers was born in Perry township, about six miles east of Ashland, in Ashland county, March 16, 1849. His parents, George and Elizabeth (Morr) Myers, are still living. The Myers family is of German origin and was established in America about 1748 by Jacob Myers, who was born at Muhlbach. He became a resident of Penns township in what is now Center county, Pennsylvania, where he purchased a large tract of land. The family suffered 'the usual hardships incident to frontier life while endeavoring to reclaim the wild tract for the purposes of civilization. Jacob Myers was draughted and served in the Revolutionary army and his eldest son, Phillip, the great-grandfather of our subject, was also in the colonial army in the war for independence. He was heavily built and muscular and was a noted wrestler in his day. His military service was with Captain Ben Wesser's company and after the war he returned to Freeburg, Pennsylvania, and thence removed to Brush valley, Center county, Pennsylvania, where he purchased a tract of land. He was a man of liberal spirit and congenial disposition, recognized as a useful and valued citizen in his township. For many years he acted as supervisor of Niles township, discharging his duties in a most capable manner. He was a consistent member of the Reformed church and died April 27, 1831, at the age of seventyfive years, five- months and thirteen days. His wife was Margaret Morr, who was born August 20, 1759, and died March 12, 1829. Both are buried in the Lutheran and Reformed cemetery at Reversburg, Pennsylvania. They had eleven children, seven sons and four daughters.

Jacob Myers, the grandfather of Francis E. Myers, was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, and wedded Mary Stein. They lived for some time near Hamburg, Clinton county, Pennsylvania, and then removed to what is now Ashland county, Ohio, in 1837. Here both passed away after having reared a family of nine children. Jacob Myers was a thrifty, honest farmer, quiet, reserved and conservative.

George Myers, the second of his nine children, was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1822, and is consequently eighty-seven years of age. He was reared on a farm, attended the district schools in the winter months and at the age of fifteen years accompanied his parents on their removal to Perry township, Ashland county, Ohio, in 1837. In this county he was apprenticed to a wagonmaker - George Fultz. After a year thus spent he removed to Hayesville, where he followed his trade for one year. For twentytwo years he had a shop on the old homestead in Perry township and it was at this period that he was associated with the Studebakers, the world-famous vehicle builders, who started here, Mr. Myers and the Studebakers working together. In 1862 George Myers withdrew from the wagonmaking business. In the meantime he had built many wagons, grain cradles and buggies, also cultivators, harrows, plows and farm implements, which were sold throughout this part of the state. He was also the builder of wagons that have been in use for fifty years and are still in a good state of preservation. In the spring of 1862, however, he came into possession of the old homestead and began farming giving his attention to general agricultural pursuits until 1894, when he rdtned from business life and removed to Ashland, having a fine home on Claremont avenue. While living in Perry township he acted as infirmary director for Ashland county for six years and for many years he served at intervals as township trustee. He was likewise school director during the greater part of his residence there and lent his aid to every movement which he believed would benefit the ae In local affairs he has never been partisan, but in national elections e has always voted wi i : of the ec oclical ees ane fees " pap tient ashore ) . : or many years and has always taken an active and helpful part in the church work. His life has indeed been an honored and useful one and in the evening of his days he receives the venera-

In the fall of 1847 George Myers was married to Miss Elizabeth Morr, a native of Center county, Pennsylvania, who was a year old when her parents came to Ashland county in 1828, settling in Perry township. Her father and mother were of German descent but were natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Myers is still living at this writing, in 1909, and is now eighty-two years of age. Like all retired farmers Mr. Myers feels that he cannot remain idle and still looks after one of his farms occasionally and cares for his cows, horses and garden at his home in Ashland. He is a remarkably well preserved man of eightyseven years, of that rugged, honest type of pioneer who assisted so largely in the development and progress of Ashland county. He is a man of firm resolve, adhering closely to what he believes to be right. In his judgment he is careful and conservative and in all his dealings with his fellowmen is thoroughly honorable and reliable. No citizen of the community occupies a more enviable place in the regard of those who know him or more fully deserves the esteem and honor in which he is held than does George Myers. His wife is a descendant of one of the old American families whose progenitors came from Germany about 1770. She traces her ancestry back to Andrew Morr, who secured a large tract of land near the present site of Freeburg, Pennsylvania, and improved it, building there a stockade for protection against the Indians. He and Jacob Myers, the progenitor of the Myers family in the new world, were neighbors and pioneer settlers of that country. Mr. Morr was a prominent Lutheran and a man of marked influence in his community. He died in 1805.

In the family of Mr. and Mrs. George Myers there were eight children, four sons and four daughters, of whom Francis E. Myers is the eldest. Celina, the eldest daughter, is the wife of P. S. Countryman, a resident of Jeromeville, Ohio. Phillip A., living in Ashland, is a member of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother. Miranda became the wife of F. R. Marks and died in 1907. A. M. is now in the employ of the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother, in charge of the pay-rolls, piece price and cost of construction. Savilla is the wife of E. J. Spreng, of Ashland. G. D. is general sales agent for the firm of F. E. Myers & Brother. Effie is the wife of Edgar H. Fuhrman, of Ashland.

The life history of such a man as F. EK. Myers is one which cannot fail to prove of interest for the world pays its tribute of admiration and respect to him who accomplishes large things, without assistance and by honorable methods. A builder of a great enterprise, he is classed today with the captains of industry who are controlling the trade and traffic of the country, and he now stands at the head of the line of business in which he is engaged. His youthful days were passed amid humble surroundings as a farm boy who worked in the fields in the summer months and attended the district school in the winter seasons until twenty-two years of age. He was ambitious, however, and became discontented with the opportunities afforded in farm life, so that he made his way to Ashland and here found employment with M. B. Parmalee as clerk in a dry-goods store, _one of the leading establishments of Ashland. His remuneration was to be one hundred dollars per year and board and he spent the year there, but says that he knew more about farming than dry-goods business and therefore sought opportunities in other lines. It was during this year that he became acquainted with M. C. Goucher, who while living at a hotel in Ashland saw in young Myers the making of a successful salesman. He therefore made him a proposition to enter his employ on a salary of sixty-five dollars per month or ten per cent commission if he would ''find'' a horse and buggy. He was to sell farm machinery, Mr. Goucher being a member of the firm owning the Ashland Clover Huller Works. After some effort Mr. Myers convinced his father that the proposition made him was a reliable one and secured his aid in purchasing a horse, which they bought of Emanuel Swinford. Francis E. Myers had saved one hundred dollars and Mr. Swinford trusted him for the balance of the purchase price, forty dollars. . Mr. Goucher was anxious that his protege should be a success and after three weeks asked him which it would be, salary or commission. The young man promptly replied ''commission.'' He resolved to make good and from the start proved a capable salesman, his business constantly increasing. The fact too, that he was on a commission basis enabled him to take up other lines of trade on the side. He did so well that he was finally put on a straight salary and took his agencies, which reverted back to him when the concern went into the hands of a receiver in 1875.

It was in that year that Mr. Myers established a little agricultural implement store in a shed in the back of the Whiting machine shop on Center street in Ashland, and as opportunity offered he added additional goods, including the Bucher & Gibbs Imperial plow, manufactured at Canton, Ohio. He was very successful in introducing this plow and sold so many that shortly afterward he was called to Canton by the Bucher & Gibbs Company and offered a regular salary as a salesman. He therefore went upon the road as representative of the house in the winter and gave his attention to his individual business in the summer time. Working his way upward from a position of salesman he eventually became president and sales manager of the largest plow manufactory in the state. Throughout his business career Mr. Myers has ever looked beyond the exigencies of the moment to the possibilities of the future and has displayed almost intuitive perception in recognizing an opportunity, while his industry has enabled him to use it to the best advantage. While he was working his way upward in connection with the plow manufacturing business and the sale of the products of the factory his brother, P. A. Myers, had secured a patent on a double-acting force pump in 1879. Francis E. Myers, having faith in his brother's invention, joined him in the manufacturing of pumps in 1880, doing the assembling in the basement of their agricultural store on Main street in Ashland, while their machine work was done in Canton and Wooster Ohio. This was the Inception of their present plant. They felt that oe hile ventured nothing gained,'' and while the establishment of the business wag an experiment it soon proved a successful one, the sale of the pump being sufficient to enable them to install their own power in the basement of their store on the Wit' sha i wes 'horaed ith aesinhee Te Saeed Se ee manifest. Their business of nie apa ie a ies BUS otk ae In 1885 they erected their own plant eich! tate pele irae ae their present plant The two ne i ie Ore nte tadaraSicc te a successful partnership. F. E. Myers was rich in experience, business lore and those attributes which bring order from chaos, while P. A. Myers was filled with ideas, system and mechanical ingenuity. Naturally sympathetic, they have builded together in harmony and unison. Addition after addition has been made as the growth of their business has demanded more space, until their plant is today the largest industry of its kind in the world - a statement that has never been contradicted. It today covers six and one-half acres, exclusive of the foundry and the Center street works. Independent motors are in each department, with duplicate power plant and automatic sprinklers. Not to any esoteric methods do they owe their success but to close application, unremitting energy and keen discrimination. They are today the largest manufacturers in the United States of pumps and hay tools exclusively, making a complete implement every half minute during working hours throughout the entire year. In 1896 a woodwork department was added and its product includes ladders, pulleys, handles, et cetera. This is also located on Center street in Ashland and the addition is in itself a huge plant. F. E. Myers & Brother now employ in this plant from five hundred to six hundred workmen, the greater percentage being skilled labor. They manufacture hay unloading tools, door hangers, pulleys and pumps, and nearly all are manufactured after inventions patented by P. A. Myers. Their business has developed largely through trade journal advertising, for they are firm believers in this method of increasing their business by making known their product and its value to the trade. During the years of their business existence they have never known what it was to have a dull season and the shop has run continuously every day save when compelled to shut down for repairs. Some of their employes have been with them from the first day they started the wheels in their fifty by seventy-five foot shop, which indicates as nothing else will do the harmonious feeling existing between employer and employe. The works of the firm today cover a total of three hundred and fifty thousand square feet of floor space and their business annually goes into seven figures, while their payroll amounts to twenty-five thousand dollars every month of the year. Almost six hundred men are given employment and their list of customers will aggregate a total of fifteen thousand business houses throughout the world. Their offices are beautiful in every way, the furnishings, finishings and adornments being in perfect harmony. Every device that tends to reduce labor or to simplify methods is used and in every department modern ideas are paramount. They have in the United States five branch distributing houses, an export house in New York city, over three hundred and fifty jobbing houses and over thirty traveling salesmen who visit all sections of the country. In France, Italy, England, Russia, Norway, Sweder, South Africa, Central America, Austria, South America and Australia they have agencies, so that their sale is world wide. In all the length and breadth of the land the name of Myers is known wherever pumps are used. This concern is one of the most remarkable developments of the age. The poor farm boy with little education, F. E. Myers, together with his brother, has developed a mammoth concern, seeking his success in the legitimate lines of . trade, recognizing that the present, and not the future, holds the opportunities and therefore utilizing each moment to the best advantage. He is a natural salesman himself and his ability in that direction constituted the foundation for the success of the enterprise. During the recent financial panic in 1907, the factory ran full time and full force, thus verifying the quality of goods and the character of business methods employed.

As Mr. Myers has made himself known to the business and financial world his aid and cooperation have been sought on behalf of many enterprises and he

Ashland; director of the Faultless Rubber Company, of Ashland; president of _the Cleveland Southwestern & Columbus Railway, a traction line from Cleveland to Bucyrus; a director of the Aurora, Elgin & Chicago Railway Company ; a director of the Mansfield Traction Power & Light Company, of Mansfield, Ohio ; and financially and actively interested in many other enterprises. The faculty of selection and the power of concentration have been potent elements in his career. He rightly believes that the true philanthropist of today is the man who does things and keeps on, who pays a fair wage the year round and can be depended upon for that wage. He devotes the major part of his time to the business of F. E. Myers & Brother, putting forth his efforts along lines that promote its continuous growth.

Various interests aside from those which bring a financial remuneration have also benefited by the sound judgment and keen discernment of F. E. Myers. He is one of the trustees of the Wittenberg College, at Springfield, Ohio; is a director of the Young Men's Christian Association of Ashland and one or the state directors of that organization. He is also the president of the Colonial Club of Ashland, belongs to the Union Club of Cleveland, to the Chamber of Commerce of Cleveland and to many social organizations. He likewise belongs to the different Masonic bodies, being a Knight Templar and a member of the Mystic Shrine.

In January, 1871, F. E. Myers was married to Miss Allavista' Hohenshel, of Roseberg, Ashland county, a daughter of Solomon and Catherine (McHose) Hohenshel, a family sketch appearing on another page of this volume. They have had four children: Mary E,, was married in January, 1909, to Frederick L. Parker, president of the United States Whip Company, of Westfield, Massachusetts ; George J. is at home and is in his father's employ; Catherine L. was taken ill in Rome while traveling abroad and died in Italy in March, 1906; John C., who married Miss Alice Mould, of Cheboygan, Michigan, is also in the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother, having charge of the advertising and cash accounts. He is a graduate of Harvard College.

Mr. Myers and his family are members of the Lutheran church, in which he is serving as trustee and to the support of which he is a most generous contributor. He has a summer home at Mullett Lake, at mouth of the Cheboygan river and is very fond of outdoor sports, including motoring and fishing. His town residence is the most beautiful home in Ashland. He hag never been De ctiee' One of tit ctun tee ace s, : up his home town and the surrounding country and his efforts in that direction have been far-reaching and beneficial. He makes no pretense to scholarly attainments but he has something that is far better than college training - the ability to see the practi- eal worth of an opportunity. His mental strength is that which has come through training in the school of experience and all who know of him honor him for his sound judgment and keen discrimination. In manner he is never intimate but always courteous and affable and he has a wide acquaintance who hold him in high regard. The basis of his success came in his careful rearing and he has been careful in every way - morals, health and finances. His people for generations before him were of the same caliber - thrifty and economieal, realizing the value of money and willing to put forth earnest and honorable efforts for its acquirement. Added to this, Mr. Myers had an unfaltering ambition which has led him into important business relations but has never made him unmindful of his obligations to his fellowmen. He is today the financial and executive genius of an immense concern, while his brother is the possessor of the inventive and mechanical power that has also contributed to the success of this enterprise. Few men more justly deserve the term captain of industry, and his life is an open book, constituting a splendid example for all young men. It should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to those who desire to win prosperity through honorable methods. He stands as a splendid type of the American gentleman of rugged health, fine physique and of strong mind, while his contact with the world has brought him the polish which many acquire in schools. He is charitable, kindly and easily approachable and has the rare faculty of putting one immediately at ease in his presence. His success has never spoiled him and a man of upright character with no worldly possessions can win his regard and friendship just as surely and quickly as the man who has gained wealth. His is a handsome face because of its strong character, the humorous twinkle of his eye, as well as good features. None have done so much for the upbuilding of Ashland as has F. KE. Myers and his brother and he is generally esteemed by his fellow townsmen who honor him for what he has accomplished but appreciate him for his genuine personal worth. . He indeed stands first in the hearts of the people of his home city.

Henry R. Pippitt needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for he has been a resident of Loudonville since the close of the Civil war. Various business interests have claimed his attention and he is well known as a traveling salesman representing a Philadelphia house. In the years of his connection with the road he has learned to adapt himself readily and easily to all classes of people and is a most genial, courteous gentleman, to whom good will and friendship are freely accorded.

A native son of Ohio, Mr. Pippitt was,born in Salem, Columbiana county, December 22,1842, a son of Joseph and Susan (Craft) Pippitt, who were natives of New Jersey. The father was born in 1800 and was a cooper by trade. Removing westward, he settled in Salem in 1825 and was there married in 1832 to Miss Craft, who was a representative of an old Quaker family and who ' conducted business as a milliner. Her death occurred October 30, 1862, in

Salem, while Mr. Pippitt long survived and passed away in Loudonville on the 26th of February, 1886. They were the parents of three children. Eliza J., the eldest, became the wife of John W. Bull and after his death she was a widow for twenty years. She then married M. S. Adkinson and now resides in Loudonville. William C. Pippitt is a resident of Ashland and Henry R. completes the family.

The last named was five years of age when his father purchased a farm three and a half miles southwest of Salem and upon that place Henry R. Pippitt femained until after the outbreak of the Civil war. He was only eighteen years of age when on the 8th of August, 1862, he enlisted as a member of Company G, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under command of Colonel J. W. Riley. He took part in the campaigns in Kentucky after Morgan in that summer and fall and then crossed the mountains to Tennessee. He was also with Sherman on the Atlanta campaign and later under command of General Thomas. Following the battle of Franklin the Union troops retreated to Nashville on the 30th of November, 1864, and on the 15th and 16th of December Mr. Pippitt participated in the hotly contested battle near that city. He continued at the front until after the close of the war, being mustered out at Greensboro, North Carolina, June 17, 1865. He received his pay at Cleveland and then returned to his home.

In the meantime, however, his mother had died and his father had removed to Loudonville to reside with his daughter, so that Henry R. Pippitt came to this place. Soon afterward he went to Poughkeepsie, New York, where he entered the Eastman Business College, pursuing a course in that institution in the winter of 1865-6. He then went to Philadelphia and in 1866 went upon the road as a jobber of notions, continuing in that line of business for ten years. During the past thirty-two years he has been with Folwell Brother & Company, of Philadelphia, as traveling salesman, being upon the road for about five months each year as the representative of that house, which is engaged in the manufacture of ladies' dress fabrics. In the meantime, in 1875, he established a hardware and tinware business in Loudonville, which he conducted for six years or until 1881, although he did not give up his position as traveling salesman. For twenty-one years he has also looked after his widowed sister's estate, consisting of three hundred and fifty acres of valuable land in this county. He is a man of keen business discernment and sound judgment, carefully controlling the interests entrusted to his management and winning success in the different fields of labor to which he has directed his energies.

In 1869 Mr. Pippitt was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth M. Bull, who was born in Loudonville, Ohio, September 14, 1843, and is a daughter of Jefferson and Sarah Ann (Hibbert) Bull, natives of New England. Her uncle, George Bull, had entered one hundred and sixty acres of land adjoining Loudonville on the south at a very early period in the settlement of Ashland RS aca Ca ee : this bide coats alte here and spent FicdeldnliaRlizabeth' anid Janie, | Ute Ms anaes os ron iam cee

New York. The son is a graduate of the high school of Loudonville and spent three years in the jewelry store of his brother-in-law at this place, after which he attended the School of Horology in Philadelphia, completing the course by graduation. At the end of that time he went to New York and became associated with the jewelry business in that state. Mr. and Mrs. Pippitt are well known in Loudonville and Ashland county, where they have an extensive circle of warm friends who entertain for them the highest regard.

Fred H. Kestner

Fred H. Kestner, a representative and successful agriculturist of Milton township, was born in Monroe county, Ohio, on the 26th of November, 1856, his parents being Jacob and Anna Barbara (Piffer) Kestner, both of whom were natives of Germany, the former born in June, 1821, and the latter on the 18th of July, 1825. When a young man of twenty years Jacob Kestner crossed. the Atlantic to the United States, first locating in Monroe county, Ohio, where he was employed as a farm laborer. Subsequently he learned the trade of an iron moulder and thus worked in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, for a few years but on account of failing health he returned to Monroe county and once more became identified with agricultural pursuits. In 1845 he purchased a farm of sixty-two acres in that county, on which he continued to reside until called to his final rest in 1887. In politics he was a stalwart democrat and capably served in the office of township supervisor. His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church, while fraternally he was connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His wife was a little maiden of six years when brought to the United States, the family home being established in Baltimore, where she lived for about twelve years. She then removed to Monroe county, Ohio, where she gave her hand in marriage to Jacob Kestner in 1846, and now makes. her home with her son in Milton township, having attained the venerable age of almost eighty-four years. She is a well preserved woman and remembers so distinctly the tedious and hazardous voyage to the United States in an old wooden ship that she has never had any desire to again cross the broad Atlantic. Her family numbers four children, namely: Fred H., of this review; George L., whose birth occurred in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1857; W. M., born in Monroe county, Ohio, in 1866; and William S., who is a native of Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fred H. Kestner still owns the old homestead farm in Monroe county and has extended its boundaries by an additional purchase of forty acres, so that it now comprises one hundred and two acres. There are seven oil wells on this property which for a time produced abundantly. His time and energies since attaining man's estate have been devoted to the pursuit of farming, in which line of activity he has won a most enviable and well deserved measure of success. On the 4th of June, 1903, he purchased the tract of one hundred and forty-eight acres in Milton township where he now resides, having here a substantial and 'attractive residence and good barns. His holdings thus embrace two hundred and fifty acres of valuable and well improved land, all of which has been acquired through the combined efforts of himself and his wife, for he had only one hundred and fifty dollars at the time of his marriage.

On the 27th of June, 1880, Mr. Kestner was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Eckard, who was born March 28, 1858, her father being Adam Eckard. Henry E. Kestner, their first child, was born April 21, 1881, and in 1907 wedded Miss Maud Cooper, by whom he has a son. Frraternally he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The other children of Mr. and Mrs. Fred H. Kestner are as follows: William M., who was born March 6, 1883, and graduated from the West Lafayette Business College on the 93d of June, 1903; Charles Leonard, whose birth occurred January 15, 1890; Freda P., who passed away May 22, 1908; Minnie B., who was born February 8, 1894; and George W., whose natal day was March 25, 1897. All received their preliminary education in the common schools.

Politically Mr. Kestner is an unfaltering democrat and has served as township trustee for several terms, discharging his official duties in a prompt and efficient manner. In religious faith he,is a Lutheran and his life has ever been in harmony with his professions as a member of that church. In his business eareer he has met with a degree of prosperity that is indicative of his ability and enterprise, of his careful management and keen discrimination and he is now classed with the substantial residents of Ashland county.

Edward S. Briggs

Edward S. Briggs, now deceased, was numbered among the citizens of worth that Ashland county gave up with regret when death claimed him. He had for some years been associated with mercantile interests as a dealer in shoes and was at all times connected with that class of progressive men who work for substantial development and upbuilding in the communities where they reside. His birth occurred in Strongsville, Ohio, September 5, 1846, his parents being Samuel and Sarah (Watson) Briggs. His youthful days were spent under the parental roof in Ashland his parents locating there in 1850 and his time was largely given to the acquirement of an education until he reached the age of eighteen, when he made his initial step in the business world as a clerk in a dry-goods store. There he was employed until 1873, when in partnership with George Frantz he purchased a shoe store, continuing its conduct for about three years as Frantz & Briggs. On the expiration of that period he sold his interest and began business on his own account, so continuing up to the time of his death. He was always careful in the selection and purchase of his stock. studied the demands and wishes of the general public and was thus able to please the varied tastes of his patrons. His prices, too, were reasonable and in all of his dealings he was strictly honorable and reliable.

Moreover Mr. Briggs was well known as an influential and valuable citizen in public affairs. He was elected for several terms to the office of village treasurer and also served on the school board for several terms. He did every- thing in his power to promote the best interests of the community and was keenly interested in all those measures and movements which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. He gave his political allegiance to the republican party, for after careful study of its principles he deemed its platform the safest on which to build good government. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons, while his religious faith was manifest in his membership in the Congregational church and evidenced in his daily living, which was character. ized at all times by a recognition of the rights of others.

On the 29th of March, 1871, Mr. Briggs was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Risser, who was born in October, 1850, and is a daughter of John and Katherine (Krehbiel) Risser, both of whom were natives of Germany. Thev were born in 1825 and 1831 respectively and were married in January, 1850. Mr. Risser came to America with his father when a lad of but seven years, the family home being established on a farm south of Ashland, which was covered with heavy timber at the time they took possession. Soon the sound of the woodman's ax awakened the echoes of the forest and continued effort and diligence were brought to play in transforming the wild land into rich and productive fields. This task was at length accomplished and John Risser became the owner of a fine farm, in the midst of which stood a beautiful residence. His earnest labor brought him a substantial competence, so that he was enabled to surround himself and his family with all of the comforts of life. He was very much interested in horses, buying and selling many and handling only those of the highest grade. In fact he had some very valuable stock and his horses were his pride. In politics he was an earnest republican, ever at the polls on election day to assist in the support of his party and in the maintenance of the principles in which he believed. He died July 8, 1885, and Mrs. Risser passed away February 27, 1905.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Edward S. Briggs was born a son, John S., whose birth occurred in December, 1873. Following his father's death, which occurred on the 25th of January, 1906, he took charge of the shoe business, which he has since conducted, following the same honorable principles and enjoying a fine trade. He, too, is a republican in his political views, a member of the Congregational church, and identified with the Masons and the Odd Fellows. His sterling qualities are widely recognized in the city where he has always lived and he has won for himself a creditable position as one of the leading merchants of Ashland. He was married May 20, 1896, to Miss Maud Riley, of Ashland, the daughter of Henry Riley, and unto them has been born one daughter, Helen Annetta.

Phillip F. Sharick

~ Such a one in Ashland is Phillip F. Sharick, who since 1885 has been prominent- 'ly associated with mercantile interests here, being the leading jeweler of the city. Aside from this he has been very active as a member of the Board of Trade in promoting the growth of the city through securing the establishment of business industries and enterprises here. His work has at all times been of a practical character and he is a cooperant factor in every measure that promises to prove of substantial benefit. He has in Ashland county a circle ot friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances and therefore his history cannot fail to prove of interest to many of our readers. His birth occurred in this county, May 19, 1862, at the family home in Orange township. His parents were John and Margaret (Fluke) Sharick. The father, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, was a lad of twelve years when he came with his parents to Ashland county, Ohio, and although but a boy, he drove a fourhorse team all the way from the old home in the Keystone state. A settlement was made in Orange township, where John Sharick grew to manhood and then, choosing as his life work the occupation to which he was reared, took up his abode upon a farm which remained his place of residence until his death, which occurred in 1889 when he was seventy years of age. He always gave his political allegiance to the democracy, while his religious faith was indicated in his membership in the Lutheran church. His wife was born in Orange township, where her entire life was passed, her death there occurring in 1896 when she was sixty years of age.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Phillip F. Sharick in his boyhood and youth. He worked 'in the fields through the summer months and in the winter seasons acquired his education in the district schools until fifteen years of age, when he apprenticed himself to the jeweler's trade, going to West Salem on the Ist of April, 1877, and there entering the employ of his brother, Irvin J. Sharick, who was proprietor of a jewelry store at that place. In the fall of 1880 this brother removed his business to Albuquerque, New Mexico, and in April, 1881, Phillip F. Sharick followed him to the southwest. He remained in New Mexico for four and a half years, spending the time in Albuquerque, Deming and Socorro, conducting a branch store in the last two named places for his brother, spending a year in each place. In August, 1885, he returned to Ohio and on the Ist of October of that year, opened a jewelry store in Ashland. In the intervening twenty-four years he has built up an extensive business. His store is second to few, if any, jewelry establishments in the United States in a city the size of Ashland. He has educated the people to buy good goods and does not wait until a market has been created for an article but ereates it himself by introducing the product to the public. His store is tastefully and attractively arranged and the large and well selected line of goods, sold at reasonable prices, have secured him a constantly increasing patronage. He is today justly accounted one of Ashland's most prominent business men.

In 1891 Mr. Sharick was married to Miss Emma R. Heltman, a daughter of W. G. Heltman, one of the leading business men of this city and prominent in public affairs as well. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sharick has been born a daughter, Katharine, and they also have an adopted daughter, Ellen. The parents are prominent socially and the hospitality of the best homes of the city is freely accorded them.

Mr. Sharick is well known in fraternal as well as other relations. He belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M.; to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F.; and also to the Patriarch Militant and the Rebekahs. He likewise holds membership with the Tribe of Ben Hur and has been chief of this lodge since its organization in Ashland. Long a devoted and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, for several years he has been a member of the board of trustees and for twenty years has acted as an usher in the church and has also long served on the music committee. He is interested in all that pertains to its growth and the extension of its influence. _ In politics he is somewhat liberal in his views, casting an independent local ballot, but at national elections supporting the men and measures of the democracy. However, no man has taken a more active or helpful part in promoting the welfare and progress of Ashland than has Mr. Sharick. He belongs to the Board of Trade and has been a member of the board of trustees since its organization. He has taken a most active part in securing manufacturing plants for the town and has probably done as much toward the advancement of Ashland's interests as any other one man of the city. It has been largely through the efforts of the Board of Trade that Ashland has almost doubled its population in the past eight years. Whatever he undertakes Mr. Sharick prosecutes with a resolute spirit and a determination that recognizes no such word as fail and thus in matters of public moment, as well as in concerns of individual enterprise, he has accomplished beneficial and far-reaching results.

First National Bank

The First National Bank of Ashland, whose financial standing and reputation has been unimpaired since the date of its organization in January, 1852, is one of the most substantial institutions in the state of Ohio, having passed through several financial flurries, still supporting its depositors on a solid ground and maintaining a degree of safety not enjoyed by many like institutions. - It has always been under the management of men of ripe experience and sound judgment, whose undaunted integrity has given the institution a substantial patronage including the foremost business men of the city and adjacent territory. Fifty-seven years ago this institution was inaugurated under the name of Luther, Crall & Company, continuing under their management for twelve years. In 1863 application for a charter under the national bank law was made by Hulbert Luther, Jacob Crall, George H. Topping, James Purdy and J. O. Jennings and, their request being granted, business was commenced in January, 1864, under the name of the First National Bank of Ashland, Ohio, its board of directors consisting of H. Luther, J. Crall, G. H. Topping, J. Purdy and J. O. Jennings. The charter expired in 1883 but was renewed by the comptroller of eurrency and in 1895 the stock in the institution was owned by eleven different persons including the directors: J. Cahn, F. HE. Myers, T. M. Beer, P. A. Myers, Joseph Patterson and J. O. Jenuings.

The First National Bank is known as one of the most solid financial houses in the county, its management being in the highest sense progressive and at the same time conservative, the men at the helm being of wide business experience, honest and reliable, who transact the business of the institution on a basis designed not only to enhance their own prosperity and interests but principally to protect their depositors and to the very best advantage subserve their interests.

J. O. Jennings, president of the institution, is a well known and highly respected citizen of Ashland, whose efforts have always been of the most pronounced character in behalf of the growth and expansion of the municipality and there is not a man in the country who entertains a more enviable reputation as a business man and banker. Joseph Patterson, who, like his associate, Mr. Jennings, is a banker of widely admitted ability, has served as cashier of the establishment since 1870. He is well versed in everything pertaining to the business and it is commonly admitted that no one is more familiar with every phase of the banking enterprise than he and for this reason through his reputation as a conservative business man many excellent patrons have been won to the institution. In fact every man connected with the First National Bank of Ashland bears closest inspection as to his integrity and business ability. F. E. Myers, of the F. E. Myers & Brother, is vice president; A. C. Bogniard is assistant cashier ; Joseph Murphy is teller and C. L. Robinson and H. J. Ambrose are bookkeepers; while the cashier is Joseph Patterson and the president, J. O. Jennings. The institution under the direction of these men, who are numbered among the solid financial citizens of this part of the state, has been able to withstand many financial flurries and during the panic of 1893, when commercial houses and banking institutions throughout the country were going to the wall, the First National Bank of Ashland withstood the shock, carrying on its daily affairs in the usual way, its financial condition being in such a state that it was in every respect free from the depressing conditions of the times. The investments, cash on hand, its capital, surplus and undivided profits constitute in large measure the protection afforded by a banking institution to its depositors and a recent report of the First National Bank of Ashland shows the substantial character of its resources as follows:

The worth of the institution and the financial standing it has acquired in the commercial world is apparent from an article published in the Financier of

New York, which endorses the First National Bank of this city, according it the highest recommendation as a substantial financial concern, as follows:

'"Owing to a typographical error the First National Bank of Ashland, Ohio, was not accorded its proper position in the National Bank Roll of Honor for the year 1906, and, in consequence, some amend is due that prosperous and enterprising institution. On August 25, 1905, the First National Bank of Ashland reported capital of fifty thousand dollars and surplus and profits seventy-two thousand, six hundred and twenty-seven dollars, making the percentage of surplus accumulation to capital one hundred and forty-five and twenty-five hundredths. The First National was therefore entitled to rank as No. 351 on the Roll of Honor of 1906, No. 16 in Ohio and first in the town of Ashland. In 1905 the bank's position on the Roll was No. 479 and in 1904 No. 598. It is evident, therefore, that the First National is forging rapidly to the front. The latest report of the bank as made to the comptroller of the currency under date of June 18, last, shows that the surplus and profits item has been increased to eighty thousand, three hundred and fifty-nine dollars which is substantial evidence of the excellent management of the institution by its present officers.

'"The First National of Ashland is one of the pioneer banks in the National system. It was organized as a national bank in 1864, succeeding the private bank of Luther, Crall & Company, which had been doing business since 1851. It is noteworthy that J. O. Jennings, now president of the First National, has been with the institution and its predecessor continuously for fifty-five years. He started as cashier and manager of the Crall Bank in 1851 and today in point of service is one of the oldest, if not the oldest bank officer in the state of Ohio, and for that matter in the United States. The bank since 1882 has paid no interest on deposits and the constant expansion of this item shows the confidence with which the institution is regarded by its home constituency.''

John M. Eberhart

John M. Eberhart, who for many years was numbered among the worthy citizens and representative farmers of Lake township, passed away on the 26th of November, 1908. He had spent his entire life in this part of the state, his birth having occurred in Wayne county, Ohio, October 15, 1843. . He was a son of Joshua and Isabel (Myers) Eberhart, The former was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, April 16, 1816, and came to Ohio in 1839. He located first in Wayne county, where he remained until 1845, when he came to Ashland county. He was a cooper by trade but after removing to this state turned his attention to general farming. In 1841 he was married in Wayne county to Miss Isabel Myers and they became the parents of six children: Eliza; John M.; Abraham ; Lewis, who married Alice Hazen; Harriet, the wife of Mathias Bender; and Albert, who married Margaret Jones. The father held membership in the Lutheran church and was a man of genuine personal worth, respected by all who knew him for his substantial qualities. Tis political allegiance was given to the republican party. He died in 1868 but his wife is still living.

John M. Eberhart spent the first fifteen years of his life in the county of his nativity and then accompanied his parents on their removal to Ashland county. He was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the fields through the summer months, while in the winter season he attended the public schools. 'In 1862 he responded to the country's call for troops although but nineteen years of age at the time he enlisted. He joined the boys in blue of Company C, One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry under Captain McKinley and took part in a number of important engagements, including the battles of Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post and Port Gibson. At the last named he was wounded in the left lung and from the effects he never fully recovered. He received an honorable discharge at Trenton, New Jersey, in August, 1865, after which he returned home and resumed the pursuits of peace in Lake township. He had served for almost three years, making a creditable record as a defender of the Union cause. Throughout his life he was most loyal to the country and its best interests, ever manifesting public-spirited citizenship.

In 1867 Mr. Eberhart was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca Young, who was born near her present home in Lake township, January 12, 1847. She is a daughter of James and Eliza (Stoner) Young. Her father was born in Virginia in 1815 and in 1836 came to Ohio with his father, John C. Young, who was born in Virginia, and in 1817 brought his family to Ohio, settling in Lake township, Ashland county. He was a cooper by trade but after coming to this state gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits. During his residence in Lake township he served as justice of the peace for eleven years and was township treasurer for several years. He was always interested in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community and his labors were effective in promoting the growth and upbuilding of the county. His religious faith was indicated in his membership in the Presbyterian church, while his political belief was that of the democracy. He married Rebecca Mathews of Virginia, who died in 1845. They became the parents of seven children, including James Young who, having arrived at years of maturity, was married in this county to Miss Eliza Stoner. He was reared here amid the wild scenes and environments of pioneer life, being but two years of age when he was brought by his parents to Ohio. Following his marriage he gave his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and was a man of diligence and industry. He belonged to the Reformed church and his political views were in harmony with the principles of the democratic party. His wife died in September, 1879. In their family were nine children, five of whom are yet living: Catharine, the wife of Tobias Wessel; Mary E., the wife of Henry Coble; Mrs. Eberhart; Sarah A., the wife of Truman Cross; and Jane, the wife of Joshua Anderson.

Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. John M. Eberhart located on the farm where the latter is still living. He gave his time and energies to the development and cultivation of his fields, his place comprising one hundred and fourteen acres on section 10, Lake township, bordering the Mohican creek and pleasantly located about a mile west of McZena. He not only owned a farm but was also engaged in the lumber business for over forty years, having a saw mill on his place, to the operation of which he gave his time and energies, while his son carried on the work of the fields. There are two dwellings on the farm, one of which is occupied by Mrs. Eberhart and the other by a married son.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eberhart were born seven children: Harry, who is living in Loudonville and married Miss Mary Bone; Otis Emmet, who wedded Carry Welty and resides in Wayne county; Melvin, who married Araminta Pierce and makes his home in Loudonville; Charles, who died at the age of twenty-one years; Montford, who married Ettie Farris and is living on the home farm; Clyde and Roy, who are at home with their mother.

The death of the husband and father occurred November 26, 1908, at his home in Lake township, whereon he had resided continuously for more than forty years. At the time of his death one of the local papers said: ''Mr. Eberhart was a kind neighbor, a good citizen and a man of unswerving integrity. Fond of a harmless joke his word was a perfect guarantee of any agreement he made. Thus one by one the survivors of the struggle from '61 to '65 fall before the relentless reaper that no human power can stay and soon the last one will come with faltering steps and with quavering voice answer to the last roll eall - 'here.' ''

Oscar Snyder

Oscar Snyder resides on a farm on section 15, Green township, and he and his father are the only white men that have ever been possessors of the property. Years ago undoubtedly Indians roamed over what are now the fertile fields of the Snyder farm, but the land at that time was covered with a dense forest growth. It was upon this farm that Oscar Snyder was born August 2, 1850, his parents being David and Mary (McManus) Snyder. The father's birth occurred in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, December 4, 1803, and he remained in the place of his nativity until his removal to Ashland county, Ohio, in 1832. Here he spent the remainder of his life and from the government entered the land which is now the home of his son, Oscar. He continued his - residence in this county throughout his remaining days, his lfe's labors being terminated on the 9th of November, 1877. In connection with farming he had operated a blacksmith shop on the old home place, having learned the trade in Pennsylvania before his removal to this state. When he arrived in Ohio and took possession of his farm not a stick had been cut nor an improvement made. He built a little cabin and at once began clearing the land, cutting down the trees, burning the brush, grubbing up the stumps and thus preparing the fields for cultivation. After a time he replaced the first cabin by a larger and more substantial one that is still standing on the place, and in 1854 he built the farm residence to which his son, Oscar Snyder, has made additions. He led a quiet, uneventful but useful and honorable life, meriting and receiving the respect and good will of his friends and neighbors. He was a member of the Lutheran church and his life was in harmony with his professions. His political support was given to the democracy. In early manhood he wedded Mary ' McManus, who was born in May, 1809, and died on the 19th of July, 1873.