Ashland City (part 56 of 57)

'Her mother was a niece of Alexander Hamilton. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. David Snyder were eleven children, nine of whom lived to years of maturity. Their first-born, Harriett, died in infancy. Humphrey and David are also now deceased. Rebecca is the widow of Peter Leidigh and is living in Mohican township. Charlotte died in infancy. Mary E. is the widow of Levi Leidigh, a brother of Peter and resides in Mohican township. Lucinda is the widow of John Stephens and also lives in Mohican township. Sarah is the widow of James Crone and is a resident of Green township. [Ella died at the age of fifty-nine years. Loving is the widow of L. P. Gladden, of Perrysville, Ohio. ;

Oscar Snyder, who is the youngest of the family, has always resided upon the farm which is now his home, having here eighty acres of which constitutes the west half of the northeast quarter of section 15, Green township. ll of the improvements upon the property were made by him or his father, the farm having been in possession of the family since 1832. It is now well developed, the fields responding readily to the care and labor which is bestowed upon them, so that Mr. Snyder annually harvests good crops. He displays a spirit of undaunted energy in his work and his sound judgment and keen business discernment are manifest in the success which now attends him.

On thel2th of October, 1879, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Jennings, who was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, January 3, 1855. She came to Ashland county in 1875 to visit an aunt and here formed the acquaintance of Mr. Snyder, to whom she eventually gave her hand in marriage. She is a daughter of David and Margaret J. (McNeil) Jennings, the former born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1818, while the latter was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and spent her entire life there. Mr. Jennings went to that county when twenty years of age and continued to reside there throughout his remaining days. He was a shoemaker by trade. In the Jenning's family there were nine children. Unto Mr. and Mrs Snyder has been born one son, Arthur, who is now a teacher in the schools of Green township. Having spent his entire life here. Mr. Snyder is widely known and his substantial qualities have gained him the warm friendship of all with whom he has been brought in contact, while his carefully directed business affairs have gained him a substantial measure of success.

EK. A. Kauffman, now serving as health officer and superintendent of sewers of Ashland, is a native of Bryan, Williams county, Ohio, born March 24, 1858. a son of John and Eva (Oxender) Kauffman. His father, who was born near Berne, Switzerland, in August, 1836, came to the United States about the year 1854, locating in Nankin, Ashland county, where he learned the trade of blacksmithing. After becoming a journeyman he removed to Williams county where he remained for two vears, returning in 1860 to this county, taking a his residence at Polk, where he has since resided and follows his occupation as

E. A. Kauffman is indebted to the public schools for his education and he remained at home until he was nineteen years of age at which period of his life he began his career as a railroad man, securing work on the repair gang of the Erie Railroad. He followed this occupation for about three years, at the end of which time, owing to his excellent services, he was promoted to foreman of the gang, the duties of which responsible position he performed for sixteen years. In 1902, owing to his experience and ability in construction work, he was selected to assist in building the Ashland sewer system and on account of the superior judgment he evidenced in this line of work he was appointed superintendent of sewers and supervised the construction of the city's present sewer system, which stands as a monument to his skill in this class of engineering. In 1905, Mr. Kauffman was appointed to the position of city health officer, in the duties of which he is now engaged, his services in this line being greatly to the advantage of the municipality.

In 1880, Mr. Kauffman wedded Miss Ada Shaffer, a native of Polk, Ashland county, and to this union were born four children, two of whom survive, namely: Nathan Waldo, who is employed in sewer construction here; and James A., a moulder of this city. Mr. Kauffman's political affiliations have always been with the democratic party, to the candidates of which he has always been loyal and he belongs to Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M., and Ashland Chapter, R. A. M., and is also a member of Montgomery Lodge, No. 355, K. of P., and of Excelsior Camp, No. 3287, M. W. A. He is one of the most popular and efficient officials of the city whose congenial manner and superior abilities justly rank him among the city's best men.

Roomfield. J. Wharton

Roomfield J. Wharton, who is engaged in general farming in Montgomery township, was born April 30, 1860. His education was acquired in the common schools and he spent his boyhood and youth on his father's farm and assisted him in the work of the fields up to the time of his marriage. He then rented land, which he cultivated for about five years, during which time his industry and his careful expenditure enabled him to save some capital." This he invested in about two hundred acres of land, upon which he now resides. In the intervening years he has devoted his time and energies to its further development and improvement, converting the place into a fine farm, supplied with all the modern conveniences and accessories. In 1892, he repaired his barns and everything about his place is complete, bespeaking the careful supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In 1895 he erected a fine residence, which is tastefully and comfortably furnished. He deals quite extensively in sheep and hogs and also handles fine coach horses in addition to carrying on general : farming. Each year he gathers rich crops, while his sale of stock also adds

On the 29th of March, 1882, Mr. Wharton was united in marriage to Miss Jennie May Vantilburg, who was born December 25, 1860, and is a daughter of Francis A. Vantilburg, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Wharton have two children: Mrs. Floy Olive Shidler, born January 13, 1887; and Ray Edwin, who was born October 23, 1895, and is now attending school.

Mr. Wharton votes with the democracy and in his religious faith is a Methodist. He displays many of the sterling qualities of progressive citizenship, withholding his support from no measure or movement which he deems will prove of value to the community. His life in all of its prominent phases measures up to the full standard of honorable manhood and he is in touch with the progress which each day should bring forth and which is conserved by each generation as the years are added to the cycle of the centuries.

Melancthon Farnsworth

Melancthon Farnsworth who since February, 1903, has been numbered among the representative and substantial residents of Nankin, gives general supervision to his farm of one hundred and fifty-seven acres in Orange township, devoted to the raising of grain and stock. He was born in Monroe county, Ohio, on the 24th of February, 1856, his parents being Howard and Nancy (Cronin) Farnsworth, who were likewise natives of the Buckeye state. The Farnsworths were from Pennsylvania, whence a removal was made to Monroe county, Ohio, David Farnsworth, the grandfather of our subject being the first to arrive. He cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers and took up land from the government, transforming it into a well cultivated farm as the years passed by. In 1856 he again emigrated westward, this time with Iowa as his destination and in that state he resided until his death. His entire life was given to general agricultural pursuits and he was a man of great force of character, who left the impress of his individuality for good upon the community.

Howard Farnsworth, the father of our subject, was born in Monroe county, Ohio, and became a prominent and influential citizen in religious and educational circles, at all times giving loyal aid and support to any movement or measure that tended to promote the intellectual or moral progress of the community. Moreover, he was a prosperous farmer and was highly respected by all who knew him. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability frequently called him to public office and he served for many years as township treasurer, being a most faithful custodian of the public funds. His life record was at all times honorable and upright, constituting an example well worthy of emulation. He died April 8, 1859, at the age of fifty-nine years and was laid to rest at Reedhouse, West Virginia. His wife, Mrs. Nancy Farnsworth, had died

Melancthon Farnsworth was reared to agricultural pursuits and attended the district schools of his native county in the acquirement of an education. He was identified with general farming in Monroe county until 1892 and subsequently began the operation of a saw mill there, being thus engaged until 1902, since which time he has lived retired from active business, though he still gives supervision to his interests. On the 9th of February, 1903, he took up his abode in Nankin and has since looked after his excellent farm of one hundred and fiftyseven acres in Orange township, where general farming and stock raising is successfully and profitably carried on. In addition to his farm he owns an excellent residence in the village.

Mr. Farnsworth has been married twice. On the 7th of September, 1873, he wedded Miss Sarah J. Markley, a daughter of Jacob and Mahala (Hupp) Markley, of Monroe county, Ohio, the father being an agriculturist. By this union there were born five children, namely: Lucetta F., the wife of Albert Stockhouse; Emma A., now Mrs. James Steed; Oliver F.; Mary Bernice, the wife of William Matheny; and Alma E., who is the wife of Frank Rose. The mother of these children passed away June 13, 1894, and on the 26th of March, 1898, Mr. Farnsworth was again married, his second union being with Miss luydia A. Pryor, a daughter of Euphronius and Susanna (Ruble) Pryor.

In his political views Mr. Farnsworth was formerly a democrat and served as trustee in Wayne township, Monroe county, but for the past fifteen years has taken no active interest in politics. He is, however, an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, favoring all movements and measures for the advancement of the general welfare along material, intellectual and moral lines. He and his family are devoted and consistent members of the Disciple church, in which he has served as an elder for many years and has also acted as Sunday school superintendent, being helpfully interested in all departments of the church work. He is a genial and courteous gentleman and his position in public regard is one of prominence.

Samuel P. Eby

Samuel P. Eby, a successful and well known farmer and stock raiser of Orange township, was born on the 25th of December, 1848, in Milton township, Ashland county, Ohio, a son of John and Martha (Hiller) Eby, both of whom are now deceased. They came as children from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, to Ohio with their respective parents, who made the journey westward in wagons, settling in Ashland county when this district was almost entirely covered with timber. John Eby, the father of our subject, carried on farming and stock raising throughout his active business career and reared a family of eleven children. five sons and six daughters, namely: Catherine, Jeremiah, Samuel P., Eliza, Harriet, Lavina, Jacob, Martha, Angeline, John and Emanuel, all of

Samuel' P. Eby received his education in the district schools and remained on his father's farm until he had attained his majority. At the age of twentyfour years he was married and subsequently spent two years on the old homestead farm, on the expiration of which period he came to his present place in Orange township, where he has since been engaged in general agricultural pursuits and stock raising, meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity in his undertakings. He likewise followed threshing for twentyfour years and also baled hay and the success which has attended his efforts is but the well earned reward of his untiring industry and unfaltering energy.

On the 9th of December, 1872, Mr. Eby was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Beam, a daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Ganguer) Beam. The father, an agriculturist of Milton township, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eby have been born six children, as follows: Alice, the wife of Frank Hazlett, of Ashland; Lester, a resident of Nankin; Harriet, who became the wife of Herbert Gurey, of Lodi; Bertha, who is the wife of Byron McFadden; Emma, who passed away at the age of three years; and Frank M.

Politically Mr. Eby is a stalwart democrat and an active worker in the local ranks of the party, being a member of the county central committee and a frequent delegate to conventions. He was elected infirmary director in 1900, thus serving for two terms or six years, has likewise been township trustee for a period of six years and is now a member of the school board. His aid and influence can ever be counted upon to further any measure instituted to advance the general welfare and he is a strong champion of public improvements along educational, moral and other lines. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is serving as trustee and is also a Sunday-school worker, acting at one time as superintendent. His entire life has been passed in this county and his fellow townsmen know that his record has been characterized by fidelity to duty and by honor in all his relations with his fellowmen.

Samuel Young

Samuel Young is the owner of a well improved farm, supplied with good buildings, his attention being given to general farming and stock raising. His specialty in the latter line is Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle, and hig business is well conducted and is bringing him a substantial return. He was born in Mifflin township, Ashland county, August 20, 1843, and there resided until he came to his present farm in 1870. He is a son of Michael and Katharine (Berlean) Young, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania as were the paternal grandparents, Mathias and Mary Young. The latter couple, removing to this state, spent their last days in Ashland county. The maternal grandparents of our subject were John and Marv Ann Berlean. who were likewise born in the Keystone state and died in Ashland county. Mathias Young was a soldier of the Revolutionary war, while John Berlean served his country in the war of 1812 and was at Baltimore during the hostilities there. The Berlean homestead, upon which the mother of our subject was born, was situated in Pennsylvania on the Maryland state line.

The birth of Michael Young occurred in Union county, Pennsylvania, after which he removed to Center county and later to Huntingdon county in the same state. From that point he accompanied his parents on their removal to Mifflin township about 1820 and Katharine Berlean arrived about a year later. They were married here and became residents of Mifflin township, taking up their abode on a farm within its borders immediately after their marriage and remaining there until called to their final rest. Their home was pleasantly located about two and a half miles northeast of the village of Mifflin. The father passed away in 1869 at the age of sixty-nine years, while the mother died in July, 1900, at the age of eighty years.

In their family were eleven children: Mathias, who died in infancy; Mary, who died at the age of nine years; Samuel, of this review; John, who died at the age of twenty-one years; Elizabeth, who passed away when twelve years of age; Katharine, who died at the age of ten years; Martha, the wife of Sam Highinger, of Arkansas; Michael, who was but four years old when he passed away; Jacob, who died at the age of two and a half years; Cyrus, living in Bowling Green, Ohio; and Michael, who is the second of the name and now resides in Montgomery township. Of these Elizabeth, Katharine, Michael and Jacob all died of scarlet fever and diphtheria within four days' time.

In his boyhood days Samuel Young learned the carpenter's trade and was in the employ of the United States government in Tennessee and in Georgia in 1863-4, being connected with the commissary department. He was not, however, a regularly enlisted man. The remainder of his life has been spent upon the farm on which his birth occurred and on the farm which is now his home. On the latter place he has lived for thirty-nine years, having here one hundred and fifty-six and three-fourths acres of rich land, pleasantly situated a mile and a half west of Jeromeville on section 1, Vermillion township. Its good buildings and well tilled fields make it a highly improved farm. All of the buildings were erected by Mr. Young and include a large barn, forty by one hundred feet, with twenty feet posts. There were log buildings on the place when he took possession but one by one he has replaced the pioneer structures by commodious and modern ones, which indicate his progressive spirit. His residence is a fine home, attractively furnished and its hospitality is one of its most pleasing features. Mr. Young devotes his time to the cultivation of the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and is also meeting with success as a raiser of Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle.

In 1870 occurred the marriage of Mr. Young and Miss Elizabeth Kelley, who was born August 15, 1853, in Vermillion township, a daughter of Luther and Sarah (Wolf) Kelley, who were natives of Pennsylvania but came to this county in the spring of 1850 and spent their remaining days here. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Young has been blessed with three children: Herbert A., a farmer living in Montgomery township, who is married and has four children, Ralph, Nellie, Raymond and Samuel; George Leslie, at home; and Stella Olivia, who is the widow of Dr. William H. Dennis and lives on the old homestead.

She has one child, Roscoe Harold. Mr. and Mrs. Young are members of the Lutheran church at Jeromeville and are people of genuine personal worth, their many good qualities winning for them the esteem and confidence of all

David Hunter

David Hunter, who is meeting with success as a general farmer and stock dealer, is also well known in financial and industrial circles of Perrysville as a stockholder in several large and important concerns which are proving. factors in the business activity and progress of the city. A native of Green township, Ashland county, Ohio, he was born on a farm a mile and a half from Loudonville on the 14th of July, 1854, a son of John and Mary (Dowell) Hunter, natives of Ireland and Holmes county, Ohio, respectively. The father came to America in early boyhood with his parents who died soon after their arrival in this country. He was reared by his older sisters in Green township, Ashland county, where he eventually married and made his home until his demise. He engaged in farming as a life work and became very successful as an agriculturist, owning at the time of his death seven hundred and fifty acres of farm land, most of which was situated in Green township, Ashland county. John Hunter and his wife were the parents of seven children, namely: John, a resident of Green township; David, of this review; Amos, residing in Richland county; Lewis, living in Green township; Reuben; Mary; and Jane, the widow of John Rowe, of Perrysville.

Reared under the parental roof, David Hunter spent his boyhood days upon his father's farm, assisting in the general work of the farm and at the same time acquiring valuable knowledge of the methods of tilling the soil that should serve as a good foundation for his subsequent success in this line of business activity. After his marriage, however, he purchased one hundred and fortyseven acres of land from his father adjoining the corporation limits of Perrysville on the east, which place he has since continued to make his home. He is also the owner of eighty acres of farm land adjoining the corporation limits of Perrysville on the west, making a total of two hundred and twenty-seven acres. Aside from general farming pursuits, during the past ten years Mr. Hunter has devoted much time and attention to the buying and shipping of stock of all kinds, and in all of his undertakings he has been eminently successful. As he has prospered he has extended his interests into other directions and today is a director and stockholder in the Perrysville Banking Company, a company composed of five members with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, Mr. Hunter owning a fifth of the stock. He is likewise a stockholder in the Perrysville Pottery Company and of the Roofing Tile Company, and his connection with these concerns has brought him into important relations with the financial and industrial interests of the city and placed him among the representative and influential citizens of the community.

The year 1877 witnessed the marriage of Mr. Hunter and Miss Susan Boney, a native of Mercer county, Pennsylvania, whose birth occurred in September, 1855. She came to Ohio in early childhood in company with her parents, Levi and lydia Boney, both natives of Pennsylvania. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Hunter are five sons: Edward, a resident of Perrysville, who is acting in the capacity of engineer at the Perrysville Pottery Company's plant; John, of Freedom, Pennsylvania, an engineer on the Pennsylvania Railroad; Burton, a farmer of Green township; Floyd and Ernest, both still at home. Having spent his entire life in this county, Mr. Hunter has formed a wide acquaintance here and many of his warmest frieads are those who have known him from his boyhood days, while in business circles he has won an envious position, not only because of the success which is his but because of the honorable and upright methods he has at all times employed.

Daniel Snyder

Daniel Snyder, owning and operating a well improved and valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 15, Green township, 'is a native son of Ashland county, his birth having occurred on the farm on which he now resides on the 12th of December, 1867. His parents were Henry and Sarah Anna (Black) Snyder, the former born February 27, 1827, and the latter May 25, 1832. The paternal grandfather, who came to this county from Pennsylvania, bought a tract of one hundred and twenty-two acres in Green township and here spent his remaining days. This farm afterward came into possession of Henry Snyder, the father of our subject, who resided thereon throughout the greater part of his-life. The maternal grandfather, Samuel Black, likewise came to this county from the Keystone state, taking up his abode in the vicinity of McKay, in which town his demise occurred when he had attained the venerable age of ninety-two years. His daughter, Mrs. Snyder, was called to her final rest on the 26th of August, 1894. Her family numbered eleven children, three of whom died in early life, while eight still survive. The record is as follows: Samuel M., who is deceased; Henry Franklin, a resident of Green township ; James Buchanan, of Columbus; Mary Ellen, the wife of Amos Hunter, of Mansfield; John Snyder, who makes his home in Lake township; Willis and Emma Bell, both of whom have passed away; Daniel, of this review; Elverta, the wife of George Thomas, of Green township; Anna Eliza Cordelia, the wife of Sam Budd, of Green township; and Charles, a resident of Vermillion township.

Daniel Snyder lost his father when only about twelve years of age and, being one of a large family, was early obliged to provide for his own support, working as a farm hand by the month as soon as old enough to handle the plow. In 1902 he bought the home farm of one hundred and twenty-two acres and also an adjoining tract of land, so that his property now embraces one hundred and sixty acres on section 15, Green township. It is situated on the Perrysville and McKay road, a mile and a half from McKay and three miles from Perrys- ' ville. On the farm are good outbuildings as well as a commodious and attrac- tive residence and a substantial barn, which was built by Mr. Snyder after the old one was destroyed by fire. He has brought the fields into a state of rich fertility, so that he annually harvests good crops and derives therefrom a gratifying income and, being not only progressive but also thoroughly practical in his methods, he carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. On the 4th of October, 1902, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Gladys Vesta McClure, whose birth occurred in Vermillion +ownship, Ashlanu county, March 26, 1884, her parents being Louis and Josephine (Huston) McClure, who are natives of this county and make their home in Vermillion township. Their family numbered five children, namely: Mrs. Snyder; James C., who died in infancy; Lottie Pearl, at home; Dollie May, who likewise passed away in infancy; and Lula Flossie, who is also yet under the parental roof. Both Mr. and Mrs. Snyder are representatives of old and well known families of Ashland county, where they have spent their entire lives, their many sterling characteristics having gained for them kindly regard and warm friendship.

Benjamin Franklin Humphrey

Persistent, earnest labor has won for Benjamin Franklin Humphrey a creditable and satisfactory measure of success. He is still giving his undivided time and attention to general farming, which he conducts on section 23, Green township. He was born in Vermillion township, Ashland county, on the 14th of December, 1857, and has spent his entire life in this part of the state. He was a son of John and Rebecca (Tawney) Humphrey. The father's birth occurred in Vermillion township, November 6, 1832, while the mother was born in Pennsylvania, March 1, 1834. The paternal grandparents were Andrew and Mary (Humphrey) Humphrey, who were of Irish lineage but it is not definitely known whether they were natives of Ireland or not. They cast in their lot with the early settlers of Ashland county, sharing with the pioneers all the hardships and privations incident to establishing a home on the frontier. Reared to farm work John Humphrey made that pursuit his life occupation and always maintained his residence in this county. Both he and his wife passed away on the 14th of December, 1906. Both suffered from pneumonia and they passed away on the anniversary of the birthday of their son, Benjamin. In his early life John Humphrey had been a carpenter and was connected with building operations to some extent, but always owned a farm. He had forty acres of land which he tilled in connection with work at his trade. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and he served as township trustee and as assesor of Green township. In all of his official duties he displayed an unfaltering loyalty to the trust reposed in him as well as marked ability in discharging his duties. Unto him and his wife were born eight children: Mrs. Mary Bittinger who is living in Green township; Mrs. Emma_ Kellogg, of Marion county; Andrew, who died March 27, 1877, at the age of twenty-two years; Benjamin Franklin; H. S., who is a resident of Green town-

In his boyhood days Benjamin F. Humphrey became a pupil in the public schools and mastered the branches of learning therein taught. In the periods of vacation he was engaged in farm work and lessons of industry and enterprise were impressed upon his mind. He learned how best to till the fields and produce good crops, so that the farm annually gives a maximum yield in the corn, wheat and other cereals which are here raised. The place comprises one hundred and twenty-five acres lying in sections 14 and 23, Green township, his home being on the latter section. He has lived on this farm for sixteen years but expects soon to leave it and remove to Loudonville, where he will remain until he finds another farm which he wishes to purchase.

On the 26th of June, 1879, Mr. Humphrey was united in marriage to Miss Emma Shaffer, who was born in Green township, May 12, 1861, and is a daughter of Peter and Susan (Black) Shaffer. They now have two children: Gertrude M., the wife of J. M. Kettering, of Loudonville; and Charles W., living in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey have many friends in the community and enjoy the hospitality of the best homes. Mr. Humphrey is recognized as a man of good business judgment and sound discernment, whose energy has brought to him a well merited measure of success.

Dr. J. M. Bittinger was born July 21, 1849,on the farm which is now his home © and here he has resided continuously to the present time. His parents were Daniel and Susannah (Colliflower) Bittinger, natives of Bedford county, Pennsylvania and of Maryland, respectively. In her girlhood days Mrs. Bittinger accompanied her parents to the Keystone state and there she was reared and married in 1827 and removal was made from Pennsylvania to Ohio, the parents of our subject locating about eight miles east of the home of their son, Dr. Bittinger, in Lake township which was then a part of Wayne county. Soon afterward, however, they came to the farm on which the Doctor now lives and their remaining days were here passed. The father secured one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 11, Union township, about a mile west of McKay and as most of it was covered with timber when it came into his possession, with characteristic energy he began to clear the farm and through his persistent labors brought the fields under a high state of cultivation. His religious faith was strong and abiding and proved the guiding spirit in his life. He was active in the German Lutheran church and later in the German Reformed church. As a citizen he was interested in all public affairs pertaining to the progress and upbuilding of the community and gave stalwart allegiance to the democratic party. He held various township offices and was an ardent champion of the cause of education doing all in his power to advance the interests of the schools. His family numbered seven children: Sarah, who died at the 'age of seventy-two years; Katharine, who died when about twenty years of age;

Daniel and George, who passed away in childhood; Leah, the wife of M. C. Heifner, of Green township, who is living on a part of her father's farm; Anna, who died when about fifty-seven years of age; and Joseph M. _ - There was also an adopted son, W. T. Bittinger, who is living in this township on a part of the Bittinger homestead; and they likewise reared a little orphan girl, Maggie Grimes.

In his youthful days Dr. Bittinger entered the public schools and acquainted himself with the branches of learning therein taught. He afterward became a pupil in the Green Town Academy and subsequently read medicine with Dr. James Yocum, while later he continued his reading under the direction of Dr. E. V. Kending for a time. He attended the lectures of the Cleveland Medical College in 1882 and lacked but one term of completing the course when ill health forced him to abandon his studies. He has farmed here in addition to practicing and has twenty-six acres of the old home property which originally comprised one hundred and sixty acres. He is naturally a man of literary tastes and studious habits and has always been a broad reader and a deep thinker. He takes great interest in many lines of literature and is a well informed man, thoroughly understanding the vital questions of the present day.

On the 26th of November, 1877, Dr. Bittinger was united in marriage to Miss Mary M. Humphrey, who was born in Green township, Ashland county, November 10, 1851, and is a daughter of John and Rebecca (Tawney) Humphrey, both of whom are natives of Green township and spent their entire lives on a farm in Ashland county. The former was a son of Andrew and Mary (Humphrey) Humphrey, who were of Irish lineage and became pioneer residents of this part of Ohio. They lived in a little log cabin home amid the conditions and environments of pioneer life, often having to build fires at night to keep the wolves away. There were various wild animals in the woods and Indians yet frequently visited the neighborhood. Much arduous labor was demanded in opening up the new farms, but the pioneer settlers were a courageous, industrious class of people who were willing to meet conditions on the frontier in order to secure homes for themselves and families. Andrew and Mary Humphrey had a large family of children. The Tawney family was also founded here in pioneer times, the grandparents of Mrs. Bittinger being Michael and Katharine (de Haven) Tawney, who were natives of Pennsylvania and were among the early residents of Ashland county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. John Humphrey were born eight children: Mrs. Bittinger; Emma, the wife of W. H. Kellogg, of Marion county, Ohio; Andrew J., who died at the age of twenty-two years; Frank and Harvey S., both residents of Green township; J ohn, living in Mansfield, Ohio; Michael, of Orange township, Ashland county; and Della, the wife of Charles Reagan, of Montgomery township.

Dr. and Mrs. Bittinger have one son, Howard Thayer, who was born in Green township, May 22, 1879, and is now a school teacher. He married Miss Libby Goard.

Dr. Bittinger was coroner of Ashland county for six years, or three terms. He has also served as township appraiser and as justice of the peace. He has always given his political allegiance to the democracy and is greatly interested in social and economic questions, which constitutes a vital force in the history of the state and nation. He is by no means a self centered man but one who in thought reaches out to the world's problems and its work, while his opinions are influencing factors among those who know him, for they regard his judgment as sound and reliable.

Charles F. Spencer

Charles F. Spencer, a prominent agriculturist of Sullivan township, this county, who is well known in Grand Army circles and descends from a pioneer family of this state, was born September 14, 1846, on the place where he now resides, his grandparents Joseph W. a soldier of the war of 1812, and Biddie (Archbold) Spencer, having come to this state from Maryland in the early pioneer days and were well known as influential people throughout the county. The grandfather was a soldier of the war of 1812 while the father Charles F. is a son of David G. a captain of the state militia, and Margaret (Ferrell) Spencer, who came here from Harrison county, this state in the early 30s. Upon their arrival almost the entire country was a vast forest, the only highways being a road running east and west and another running north and south through the village of Sullivan and these roads in that day were little more than blazed trails. Their first work upon reaching the land was to erect a log cabin and after having secured comfortable shelter they began to clear and cultivate the land. Little by little they succeeded in accomplishing the undertaking and soon they had a portion of the property in such condition as to submit to the plow and yield grain, part of which they used to supply their own immediate necessities and the remainder they hauled to the markets at Sandusky, Milan and Elyria. Here they spent their lives in agricultural pursuits and reared a family, among whom were: Joseph W., a retired farmer of Alta Vista, Kansas, and a veteran of the Civil war; Mary E., wife of Edsel W. Chamberlain, of Oberlin; and Charles F.

Charles F. Spencer acquired his education in the district schools, in the meantime engaging in the duties of his father's farm, where he remained until he was sixteen years of age. On February 28, 1863, he enlisted in the Twentyfifth Independent Battery, of the Ohio Light Artillery, and saw active service in the western army until December 13, 1865. During the conflict he was injured, at Little Rock, Arkansas, the marks of which are still apparent. After the war Mr. Spencer resumed farming in Sullivan township, where he has since resided with the exception of four years spent in Kansas, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits in Elk county, from 1872 to 1876. In connection with producing general crops and stock raising he carries on a dairy business and has gained quite a reputation for the quality of his dairy products and his liberal patronage has made the enterprise one of the most lucrative.

On December 28, 1868, he wedded Miss Alice Close, daughter of Nathaniel and Amanda (Naylor) Close, the family being origmally from New England and the first white one to settle in this township. 'To this union have been born

David BE. of this township, who served throughout the Spanish-American war in Company D, Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and Albert C., of Alliance, Ohio. Politically Mr. Spencer is allied with the republican party to which he has always been loyal and being a public-spirited man he has always taken an interest in the affairs of the community in which he lived and while a resident of Kansas served one term as justice of the peace, has also served in that office here and also as a member of the school board. He is prominent in Grand Army circles, being a member of Fuller Smith Post, No. 356, G. A. R., in which he has filled all the offices and has been extended the honor of delegate to both the state and 'national encampments. He belongs to Lodge No. 313, A. F. & A. M., in which he has filled all the offices and is now serving as junior warden. Mr. Spencer has always been faithful to his religious duties and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he is class leader, steward and trustee. He is well known throughout the community, particularly on account of his agreeable companionship and being an interesting narrator he is frequently sought by his many friends who appeal to him for entertainment. His character is unsullied and always having been a good and industrious man as well as a useful one he has the confidence and respect of his neighbors and is among the substantial citizens of the township.

C. C. Staman represents one of the old and well known pioneer families of this part of the state. Here he has always lived, covering a period of more than three score years and ten. His birthplace was near his present home in Mifflin township and his natal day was June 18, 1838. He was the third in order of birth in a family of five children whose parents were Benjamin and Anna (Kauffman) Staman, of whom mention is made on another page of this work, in connection with the sketch of J. K. Staman.

In the usual manner of farm lads the subject of this review was reared and early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He remained upon the farm where his birth occurred until the time of his marriage and has since lived at his present place of residence, which is a part of the old homestead. Here he has two hundred acres of rich and arable land, of which forty acres was once a part of the old home place. His farm is all in one tract and adjoins the village of Mifflin on the west. It also borders the Richland county line and one of its boundaries is the Black Fork creek. One hundred and ten acres lies on section 14, Mifflin township, Ashland county, while ninety acres lies in Mifflin township, Richland county, the only division in the property, however, being this imaginary line of division between the two counties. It is well equipped with the modern accessories and convenences known to a model farm of the twentieth century. There are good buildings which are commodious and substantial. <A large barn and numerous sheds furnish ample shelter to grain and stock, while his own residence is a fine home, attractively and tastefully furnished. He carries on general farming and stock raising and both branches of his business are proving profitable. | While excavating for his barn he opened up about a dozen Indian graves. This was at one time the Ruffner farm, originally owned by John Ruffner, who was killed by the Indians September 10, 1812, while helping to defend the Zimmer family. Mr. Staman has made all of the later improvements on his farm and the dwelling and all of the outbuildings stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise. His residence is surrounded by fine shade trees and a well kept lawn and is one of the most beautiful homes in the township. Everything about the place is indicative of his careful supervision and practical methods and his success is most creditable. In addition to his agricultural interests Mr. Staman owns a store in Mifflin in connection with his son-in-law, E. L. Davis, the enterprise being conducted under the firm style of E. L. Davis & Company for the past sixteen years. He is also a stockholder in the Ashland Savings Bank and his name is an honored one on commercial paper.

In March, 1861, Mr. Staman was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Croninger, who was born in Mifflin township in 1840 and is a daughter of Benjamin and Martha (Keifer) Croninger. Their children were two in number: Nettie, now the wife of E. L. Davis, a merchant of Mifflin; and Hulda, who died in infancy.

In his political views Mr. Staman is a republican but manifests only a citizen's interest in political affairs. He has taken a most active and helpful part, however, in the church work, holding membership in the Lutheran church of Mifflin, in which he has served as deacon, as elder and as superintendent of the Sunday school. He has been officially connected with the church for over thirty years, being an elder at the present time. He is a representative business man, alert and energetic, standing as a splendid representative of that type of citizen who accomplishes results and while laboring for his individual success also promotes the public prosperity.

Frederick Edwards

Frederick Edwards is the president and sales manager of the Kauffman Manufacturing Company. He was born in Ashland an the 4th of September, 1867, and is a son of William and Mary (Saner) Edwards, whose family numbered three children, of whom two are now living, the daughter being Ida M., the wife of J. W. Kennington of Ashland.

No events of especial importance occurred to vary the usual routine of life for Frederick Edwards in his boyhood and youth. His time was divided between the duties of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the play ground and such tasks as were assigned him by his parents. He continued as a public school student to the age of seventeen years when he entered the employ of Kauffman & Beer, working in their bed spring factory. Hig first week's labors brought him three dollars and forty-five cents of which he paid three dollars for board. As the days passed however, his ability increased and he 'worked at the bench for eight years, becoming an expert in that line. He was then given a position with the house as commercial salesman and thus represented the interests of the business until three years after the death of Mr. Beer, when he purchased his share from the estate and became a partner in the firm. In 1902 he and Harry 8S. and J. Edward Kauffman, sons of the senior partner, acquired a half interest in the business. In October, 1904, the senior partner died and the following January Frederick Edwards was elected to the presidency and placed in charge of the sales department. Since the death of the founder Frederick Edwards and his two partners have acquired the entire busines which is capitalized for seventy-five thousand dollars, all paid in. Mr. Edwards travels most of the time in the interests of the business which has now grown to extensive and important proportions. The output has been extended to include the manufacture of various other products, especially those made from steel wire, and the business of the house is constantly expanding.

On the 14th of November, 1890, Mr. Edwards was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Kauffman. He is a member of the United Commercial Travelers and in politics is a stalwart republican. The consensus of public opinion places him in a prominent position in commercial and manufacturing circles here and his success is being continually gained through the capable management of the business. He is a man of democratic spirit, genial and jovial in disposition, with a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance.

Michael Helbert

Michael Helbert, who carries on general farming on section 27, Vermillion township, his place comprising the southeast quarter, also owns other property in the county and may well be classed_with its representative agriculturists. He was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, January 26, 1820, and has therefore passed the eighty-ninth milestone un life's journey. He has been a resident of Mohican township, Ashland county, since 1835, in which year he came to Ohio with his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Moch) Helbert. He is the oldest of the living members of a family that once numbered thirteen children. His entire life has been given to farm work. After the removal to Ohio he assisted his father in the arduous task of developing and improving a new farm, remaining at home up to the time of his majority, after which he purchased ten acres of his father's place in Mohican township and there resided for thirteen years. About forty years ago he purchased his present farm and it has since been his home. It comprises one hundred and sixty aces of land constituting the southeast quarter of section 27, and in addition to this he has a farm of sixty acres about a quarter of a mile from his home place. In the meantime, after tilling his original tract of ten acres, he bought seventy-four acres in Mohican township, living theron for about five years, or until he purchased his present place. In the midst of this farm he has a good brick residence and there are other substantial improvements on his land. His entire life has been given to general agri-

On the 25th of October, 1847, Mr. Helbert was married to Miss Susan Ward, who died in April, 1860, at the age of thirty-three years, leaving five children: John, who died in 1885 at the age of thirty-five years; William, living in Vermillion township; Frank, a resident of Hayesville; Emma, the wife of George V. Ewing of Vermillion township; and Alma, at home.

On the 30th of October, 1861, Mr. Helbert was married to Miss Ann Hazelet, who was born in this county, May 10, 1843, a daughter of David and Mary (Mich) Hazelet. Her father was married twice and Mrs. Helbert was the only child of the second marriage. By her marriage she became the mother of five children, of whom two died in infancy, the others being: Della, at home; Hattie, the wife of Samuel McClure of Vermillion township; and George Murton, who resides on the old home place and operates the farm. The land is well improved with good buildings and annually brings forth rich harvests. Mr. Helbert, now in advanced years, leaves the active work of the farm to his son. He is, however, a remarkably well preserved man for one of his age,, and his life has been one of untiring diligence, perseverance and well directed strength.

With the exception of brief intervals M. B. DeShong has been continuotsly engaged in business in Ashland for more than a half century and for some years has been associated with insurance interests here. Many chapters in his life record have won for him the respect, honor and good will of his fellowmen, for in military and political circles he has been loyal and in all of his business connections has been straightforward and reliable.

His birth occurred in Uniontown, Stark county, Ohio, February 27, 1836, his parents being Peter M. and Asenath (Bender) DeShong, both of whom were natives of Mount Joy, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, whence they went to Stark county after attaining their majority but prior to their marriage. The paternal grandparents of Mr. DeShong remained residents of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, but the maternal grandparents came to Ohio with their daughter Asenath. The wedding of Peter M. DeShong and Asenath Bender was celeeten in Uniontown and there the young husband established business as a cabinetmaker. For many years, however, he filled public office, serving four = long period as justice of the peace, while in 1851 he was elected sheriff of the county and removed to Canton, serving for two terms in that office. In the fall of 1855 he removed to Ashland county and purchased the Andrew Carter farm one mile east of the county seat. For about four years he devoted his energies to general agricultural pursuits and in 1859 sold the farm and came to Ashland, where he established a stove and tinware business, continuing in that line of trade for ten years. In 1869 he sold out and retired from active 'life, spending his last days in Ashland, where he died November 5, 1871, in his sixty-eighth year. In: polities he was a war democrat, advocating the Union cause. His sterling character and his well known ability made him a man of influence, while his labors constituted a factor in general progress and improvement. He held membership in the Dunkard church. Both he and his wife were of Huguenot ancestry, the families being founded in America at the time of religious persecution in the disputed territory of Alsace and Lorraine. They located in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and the DeShong family was of French lineage, while the Bender family was of German descent. There were four brothers of the Bender family who served in the Revolutionary war. ~ The death of Mrs. Asenath (Bender) DeShong occurred in 1889 when she was seventy-nine years of age.

In the district schools M. B. DeShong pursued his early education and afterward attended school in Canton. When seventeen years of age he entered the dry goods store of V. R. Kimball & Company, of Canton, there serving as a clerk for four years. In the fall of 1857 he came to Ashland and soon afterward entered the employ of Gorham & Pritchard, dry goods merchants, remaining with the house during various changes in, the firm until 1860, when he secured a situation with Zuber & Hower, with whom he continued until after the outbreak of the Civil war. During the opening days of hostilities he enlisted on the 6th of June, 1861, becoming a member of Company G, Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve for three years and was consecutively promoted until he became first lieutenant. On July 16, 1864, he was discharged but immediately reenlisted, becoming adjutant of the Orfe hundred and Highty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry at Huntsville, Alabama. He was mustered out of the service September 28, 1865, after having done faithful duty in defense of the Union for more than four years. He at first enlisted as a private but was promoted step by step until he became the first heutenant of Company G. His military service was an arduous one, fraught with many hardships and dangers. He participated in the battle of Carnifax Ferry, September 10, 1861; South Mountain, September 14, 1862; Antietam, September 16 and 17, 1862; Cloyd Mountain, May 9; 1864; Newburn Bridge, May 10, 1864; and many others of lesser importance. He was also in the Lynchburg raid, where he was continuously under fire for fifteen days. He was never in a hospital for a day during his service, although he became ill with typhoid fever, but as he was first sergeant of his company he refused to give up and broke up the fever on the march. After the battles of South Mountain and Antietam in 1862, there were thirty sergeants selected to be sent home on recruiting service, among the aumber being Mr. DeShong and William McKinley, who later became president of the United States. They called on Governor Todd at Columbus at his request and were congratulated on the glorious victory at Antietam and Cloyd Mountain. The Governor then presented DeShong and McKinley with commissions as second lieutenants, being the only two out of the thirty thus honored. Our subject became a great personal friend and warm admirer of his comrade William McKinley, who often made reference to the above incident. Mr. DeShong commanded the Second Division of the Twenty-third Ohio Vonniee Infantry in the line of march at the inauguration of President McKinley and also at his funeral in Canton. As acting adjutant of his regiment, Mr. DeShong had the honor of reading on dress parade the congratulatory order of President Lincoln announcing the victory of the Union army at Gettysburg and the surrender of Vicksburg. He commanded the Twenty-third Ohio as an escort at Mrs. Hayes' funeral and was one of the pall bearers at President Hayes' funeral at Fremont in January, 1893.

When the war was over and the country no longer needed his aid, Mr. DeShong returned home and for two years was connected with his father in the stove and tinware business. In 1869, however, he turned his attention to the real-estate and insurance business, which he conducted with growing success until 1878, when he was appointed postmaster of Ashland, serving under the administration of President R. B. Hayes. He afterward went to Columbia, South Dakota, where for a number of years he conducted a stove and tinware business, but in the fall of 1885 he returned to Ashland and in 1889 was again appointed postmaster by President Benjamin Harrison. On the expiration of his second term in that office he engaged in the fire, life and accident insurance business, with which he has since been connected and is recognized as one of the leading insurance men of the city, although he has now reached the age of seventy-three years. He also served as deputy United States marshal in 1870 and 1871 and in the former year was census enumerator for Ashland county.

Mr. DeShong is a member of Andrews Post, No. 132, G. A. R.; Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F.; and Ashland Lodge, No. 151, F.& A.M. He is in hearty sympathy with the beneficient spirit of these orders and exemplifies their teachings in his life. He is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and is serving as one of its stewards. As a member of the Ashland Board of Trade, and in other connections as well, he has labored earnestly and effectively to promote the best interests and upbuilding of the city.

John P. Bowman

John P. Bowman, who since 1890 has been editor of the Loudonville Demoerat, was born in Shelby, Ohio, March 2, 1867, his parents being George and Sarah E. (Leppo) Bowman. The father, a native of Baden, Germany, came to Shelby, Ohio, when fifteen-years of age in company with his widowed mother, who later returned to the fatherland and there passed away. Throughout his active business career George Bowman was identified with the dry goods trade in Shelby and Loudonville and was also a teacher of music and a musical director. At the time of the Civil war he aided in the preservation of the Union by his service as a member of the One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry and also did duty with the Squirrel Hunters. His demise, which occurred at Sandusky in 1892, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His wife was a native of Richland county and there passed away. Unto this worthy couple were born four children, namely: John P., of this review; Ella, the wife of W. J. Weirick, of Loudonville; Georgia, who died when " twenty-one years of age; and one who died in infancy.

John P. Bowman remained in the place of his nativity until 1882, when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Loudonville, completing his education in the Loudonville high school with the class of 1884. After coming to this city and while still'a high-school student, he spent his Saturdays and evenings in the office of the Advocate, of which P. H. Stauffer was then editor. After teaching several terms of school, in 1890 he purchased the Democrat, of which he has since been sole owner and manager, having enlarged the plant and quadrupled the circulation. When he first took charge of the paper he did most of the work in connection therewith himself but now employs five assistants and, in addition to editing the Democrat, also does considerable commercial printing. The Democrat is devoted to the dissemination of general and local news and that it meets the approval of the public is indicated by its large subscription list. Mr. Bowman has likewise served as secretary of the Northeastern Ohio Firemen's Association and is widely recognized as a most progressive, enterprising and representative citizen.

In October, 1890, Mr. Bowman was united in marriage to Miss Addie Lyons, who was born in Medina county but was reared in Wayne county. They have one daughter, Ruth. Mr. Bowman has served as president and clerk of the board of education in Loudonville and also as clerk of Hanover township, ever discharging his official duties with promptness and capability. Fraternally he is connected with Hanover Lodge, No. 115, F. & A. M., at Loudonville, and exemplifies the teachings of the craft in his daily life. He has now been a resident of Ashland county for more than a quarter of a century and for almost two decades has been prominently identified with its journalistic interests, his labors proving an important factor in'the growth and improvement of the county in recent years.

A. W. Fritzinger, who is engaged in the insurance business in Ashland, conducting an enterprise of such proportions as to place him in high rank as a local financier, is a native of West Salem, Wayne county, this state, born September 20, 1861, and is a son of Edwin and Fannie (Greiner) Fritzinger. His father was born in Carbon county, Pennsylvania, in 1835, and there he was reared to manhood, but later located in Philadelphia, that state, where he had charge of the books for a wholesale establishment until 1855, when he came to Ashland. Here for a period of six years he was employed on the Times, and in 1861 located in West Salem, Wayne county, where he conducted a general mercantile business until 1877, during which year he returned to Ashland. Here he established himself in the insurance business, in which he met with great success, becoming known as one of the most influential men affiliated with that line of work in the city. In this enterprise he continued until he departed this life, July 7, 1901. He was a republican in politics but never an aspirant for public office, though he took considerable interest in local affairs and officiated for several years as a member of the city school board. He was a Royal Arch

Mason and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, having been active in _ its affairs and a member of the official board. The mother of our subject was a native of Ashland, born on the outskirts of the city in 1840, her family having come to this county at an early day from Pennsylvania and the grandfather became a farmer in Montgomery township. She still survives, enjoying a full measure of health and vigor, and resides on Cottage street, Ashland.

To the public school system A. W. Fritzinger is indebted for his education, having completed a course of study in the common schools and later in the West Salem high school, from which institution he was graduated in 1877. Soon afterward he removed with his parents to Ashland, where he entered a mercantile establishment, serving in the capacity of clerk for six years. Upon resigning his position he engaged with his father in the insurance business, subsequently being made a partner, and upon his father's death succeeded him as sole proprietor of the business in which he has been engaged for the past twenty-six years. He is one of the best known and successful insurance men of this city and his prosperity has been such as to enable him to become interested in a number of other business concerns, among which are the First National Bank, in which he is a stockholder, also a stockholder in the Farmers National Bank, the Reliable Match Company, and the Ashland Steel Range & Manufacturing Company. His business relations have always been upright and he is rightly numbered among the representative commercial factors of the city.

On May 16, 1889, Mr. Fritzinger wedded Blanche Cowan, a daughter of Robert Cowan, deceased, a former harness dealer of this place, and to this union have been born: Ruth L., a student in the University of Delaware, this state; Paul C., a graduate of Ashland high school; Helen J., a pupil at that institution ; and Dorothy V.

Mr. Fritzinger is prominent in fraternal organizations, being a member of Ashland Lodge, No. 151, A. F. & A. M.; Ashland Chapter, No. 61, R. A. M.; and Mansfield Commandery, No. 21, K. T.; and he is also affiliated with the Ashland Colonial Club. Politically he votes with the republican party and his religious convictions become apparent at mention of the fact that he holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Fritzinger is a member of the Board of Trade, of which he is a director, has done much to further the interests of the city, and being foremost in formulating plans and furthering movements for its betterment, he is rightly numbered among its aggressive citizens and leading financiers.

Amos M. Kohler

Amos M. Kohler, who for a number of years followed agricultural pursuits and who was also influentially engaged in a number of financial enterprises in Ashland, is now officiating as county treasurer, in which position he is displaying that measure of administrative ability which makes him an invaluable citizen. of the county: His birth oceurred at Flemings Falls, Richland county, Ohio,. January 15, 1847, and he is a son of Daniel and Nancy (Brubaker) Kohler. His father, who was a son of Jacob Kohler, was a native of Adams county, Pennsylvania, while his mother was born in Lancaster county, that state. Both came to Richland county with their parents in childhood, the journey being made by means of wagons. The paternal grandparents located in the forest about six miles north of Mansfield, where they erected a log cabin and there, after clearing off a sufficient amount of land, they spent their lives in the pursuit of agriculture. The maternal grandparents located near Flemings Falls and amid primitive surroundings participated in the experiences of pioneer life. In an undeveloped region, which at that time contained scarcely a field in condition for cultivation, Daniel Kohler and the lady who afterwards 'became his wife were reared. After their marriage he secured a tract of land and there engaged in general agriculture, at the same time becoming familiar with the saw-mill business with his father-in-law, who conducted an enterprise of that kind at Flemings Falls and also operated a grist mill. Later Mr. Kohler embarked in the milling business and for many years operated a plant in addition to his farming, the business being carried on in connection with his sons. After a long and useful life he passed away in his sixty-eighth year, while his wife lived to be eighty years of age. i

Under the parental roof Amos M. Kohler was reared, the district schools affording him his educational advantages and, when eighteen years of age, he apprenticed himself to the carpenter's trade, following that occupation as a journeyman until the time of his marriage. He then settled on a farm in this county, near Black Fork, where he tilled one hundred and sixty acres of land which was the possession of his father-in-law and upon that farm he remained for three years. At the termination of that time he returned to Richland county, where he purchased a place four miles east of Mansfield, and in connection with husbandry he also operated a grist and saw mill in partnership with two others for about three years, when he disposed of his interests and turned his undivided attention to tilling the soil. During the harvest season of 1877 Mr. Kohler met with the misfortune of losing his foot in a mowing machine which disaster changed the course of his life, causing him to retire from agricultural work, and in the spring of 1879 he removed to Ashland, where he has since resided. Becoming interested in the boot and shoe business, for ten years he acted as a salesman in this line, and for a part of the time was proprietor of a retail shoe establishment. He gave considerable attention to politics and in the spring of 1885 was nominated on the democratic ticket as a candidate for county recorder but was defeated and in 1889 he was again nominated, this time being elected. In 1893 he was returned to the office, thus serving two successive terms. In 1903 he was elected county treasurer, the duties of which office he performed with such a high measure of ability that in 1905 he was again elected and js now serving his second term as the custodian of the county's finances, his term of office extending until September, 1909.

On February 7, 1871, Mr. Kohler was united in marriage to Miss Alice A. Cotter, a daughter of William Cotter, who came to Richland county from Warren county, Pennsylvania, where for several years he was a lumber merchant. To Mr. and Mrs. Kohler have been born three children, two of whom survive namely: William O., who is employed with the Sterling boiler establishment i Barberton, Ohio; and Robert Lee, who resides with his parents.

Mr. Kohler's fraternal affiliations are with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being a member of Mohican Lodge, No. 85, and also of Ashland Encampment, No. 130. His services as a public official have been in the highest degree useful and satisfactory as indicated by his reelection to important offices and particularly by the fact that as county treasurer he is now performing the duties of one of the most trusty offices proffered by the county. In all of his political experiences, having been straightforward and honest, desiring public preferment not through selfish interests but by reason of the amount of good he might do, he has sustained an excellent reputation, which numbers him among the honored and representative citizens of this part of the state.

D. H. Graven

While comparatively young in years D. H. Graven has, nevertheless, by unremitting energy and unfaltering perseverance reached a creditable place in the legal and financial circles of Loudonville, for he is the capable cashier of the First National Bank of this city while in his professional relations he enjoys a good and constantly increasing patronage. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born in Hanover township, Ashland county, Ohio, May 21, 1874, a son of Marion and Sarah J. (McCulloch) Graven, both born in Holmes county, near Millersburg. The former, who was born February 2, 1847, devoted his entire life to farming and engaged actively in agricultural pursuits until 1901, when he retired and removed to Loudonville, where he passed away January 9, 1903. His wife, who was born January 17, 1851, still survives him and makes her home with her son, D. H. Graven, of this review. Mr. and Mrs. Marion Graven were the parents of three sons, Dr. T. A., D. H. and John Elmer. Dr. T. A. Graven, the eldest son, is a practicing physician of Wooster, Ohio, while the youngest, John Elmer, is deceased. He was born July 10, 1876, and was graduated from the college at Ada and the Wooster University. Subsequently he became a student in Harvard University but passed away April 15, 1900, while in his senior year.

When a lad of nine years D. H. Graven accompanied his parents on their removal from their home in Ashland county to a farm near Nashville, Holmes county, and there he attended the country schools until the winter of 1895, when he put aside his text-books for a year and engaged in teaching school. Resuming his studies in 1896, he pursued a classical course in Ada College and was graduated therefrom in 1897, when he again took up the profession of teaching, becoming teacher of Latin and mathematics at the Henderson Normal School, Henderson, Texas, where he remained during the scholastic year 1898-9.

This work, however, Mr. Graven considered merely as a means to an end, for he had already chosen as his vocation in life the profession of the law, and in preparation for a legal career he entered the law department of the Ohio State University of Columbus, from which he was graduated with the class of 1900. Upon his graduation he entered immediately upon the practice of law and from ~ August 1, 1900, to November 1, 1903, he actively engaged in his profession in

Columbus. In the latter year he was summoned to Loudonville by the death of his father and has since remained here. Although his residence in this city covers a period of only six years, he has been awarded a good clientage which is constantly growing as his reputation as an able advocate and counselor brings him more and more into prominence. He has always remained a student of the fundamental principles of his profession and carefully prepares each case before appearing before the court, and while he always has the interests of his clients at heart, he at the same time remains a lawyer loyal to the law. His well known ability and integrity have been the means of drawing him into other relations and on the 5th of July, 1904, he was appointed cashier of the First National Bank, which place of trust and responsibility he is today occupying. Mr. Graven is also interested, to some extent, in real estate, and in connection with his brother, Dr. T. W. Graven, of Wooster, Ohio, he owns and operates four hundred and seven acres of farm land in Holmes county.

On the 18th of August, 1903, occurred the marriage of Mr. Graven to Miss Emma Fisher, a native of Loudonville and a daughter of William S. Fisher. Unto this union was born one daughter, Marjorie, whose birth occurred July 18, 1905.

Mr. Graven is a deacon in the First Presbyterian church of Loudonville and is a popular figure in fraternal circles, being treasurer of Sylvan Lodge, Nv. 240, I. O. O. F.; worshipful master of Hanover Lodge, No. 115, F. & A. M.; a member of Tulonia Lodge, K. P., of Loudonville; of Mansfield Chapter, No. 28, R. A. M.; of Mansfield Council, No. 94; and Mansfield Commandery, No. 21, K. T. He also holds membership in the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a trustee of Loudonville cemetery and in-his political allegiance is a stalwart republican, being a member of the republican central committee. Realizing that there is no royal road to wealth, Mr. Graven has been a hard worker all his life, utilizing every opportunity that has come his way, and the characteristics which have marked his entire career - indefatigable energy and untiring perseverance - have brought him to his present success and won for him a place among the representative citizens of this community.

John Delmer Deyarmon

John Delmer Deyarmon, a native of Loudonville, Ohio, where he has spent nearly his whole life, has figured prominently in the commercial and political circles of the community. He was born June 14, 1847, a son of Christian S. and Caroline Eliza (Harris) Deyarmon, the former a native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, born November 3, 1820, and the latter a native of New Hampshire, born October 14, 1820. The father, when about twenty-one years of age, removed with his parents from their native home to Wooster, Ohio, and shortly afterward he came to Loudonville, where his remaining days were spent, his death occurring here when he was seventy-eight years of age. His wife arrived with her parents in Ohio when she was eighteen years of age and survived her husband six years, passing away at the age of eighty-five. He was a cabinetmaker by trade and followed this profession in early life. Subsequently he became interested in merchandising with his son, while his last years were spent in agricultural pursuits. During his life here he became very active in political affairs and served as a member of the city council. His fellowmen, showing their appreciation of his ability and worth, elected him as mayor of Loudonville, which position he filled for two terms. In the family of Christian Deyarmon were six children, namely: Mary Alice, the deceased wife of Rev. Philip Kelser ; John Delmer; Joseph A., deceased; Zoe, the widow of A. Leopold of Pittsburg; Jessie, the widow of Dr. E. H. Pocock, of Hayesville; and Kate A., also residing in Loudonville.

John Delmer Deyarmon, whose name introduces this review, attended the public schools of this city until seventeen years of age, when he entered the grain business with his father, continuing in this line until about 1868. In 1871 he established himself in the dry-goods business in Lakeville, which he continued for ten years, at first in connection with his father but later alone in the enterprise. Upon returning to Loudonville he was appointed postmaster of the city under President Harrison, and filled that office for five years. He later entered the dry-goods and coal business of S. A. Losh, being thus engaged for two or three years. Since December, 1903, he has occupied the position of superintendent of the water and light departments and clerk of public affairs, the duties of which office he is performing with promptness and ability, while his methods are receiving the endorsement of his fellow citizens.

On the 14th of October, 1880, Mr. Deyarmon was united in marriage to Theressa Delia Yarnell, a native of Wayne county, Ohio, and the daughter of David and Mary Yarnell. - Unto this union was born one son, Harry Christian, who also makes his home in Loudonville. He married Bessie M. Keller and they have one son, John Keller.

A republican in politics, Mr. Deyarmon is a stalwart champion of the principles of that party and exerts his power to extend its influence in the community. He is a public-spirited citizen and while serving as a member of the city council lent his cooperation to all measures that had for their object the progress and upbuilding of the city. A life-long resident of this community, he has made many friends who entertain for him the warmest regard, while his public career has been such as to inspire the confidence and trust of all with whom he has come in contact.

Frank P. Young

Frank P. Young has figured prominently in the commercial activity of Loudonville for a number of years and is also recognized as one of the foremost representatives of political circles of the county. <A native of Wisconsin, he was born near Milwaukee on the 28th of June, 1856, a son of Jacob and Katharine (Ruff) Young. Both natives of Alsace, Germany, the former was born April 25, 1825, while the latter was born November 25, 1823. They were married in the fatherland and came to the United States in 1852, locating in Wisconsin, while later, in 1866, they came to Loudonville, where they both passed away, the father November 6, 1876, and the mother January 9, 1896. Jacob Young was formerly an agriculturist but later became interested in merchandising in Loudonville. He and his wife were the parents of six children, four of whom died in childhood. Those remaining are: Caroline, the wife of Jacob Parrott, of Loudonville; and Frank P. Young, of this review.

The latter was reared on his father's farm in Wisconsin until ten years of age and then accompanied his parents to Loudonville, where he acquired a good public-school education. When he laid aside his text-books he became engaged in the grocery business with his father and continued in this line until the death of the latter in 1876, when he conducted the enterprise alone for a period of eight years. In 1884 he disposed of his grocery interests and established himself in the hardware business at the same location, being thus engaged at the present time. Mr. Young has been very successful in his undertakings and they have proved a source of financial profit to him. As he has prospered he has invested in property, becoming the owner of considerable real estate in this city. Aside from the two-story brick building, twenty by one hundred and forty feet, which is occupied exclusively by his hardware business, he owns six dwellings in Loudonville, which also return to him a gratifying annual income. For the past eight years he has conducted a first class livery business under the firm name of F. P. Young & Son.

Not alone in commercial circles, however, is Mr. Young well known, for he has, for several years, been a prominent figure in local democratic circles, his fellow citizens, recognizing his ability and sterling traits of character, calling him to various public offices. For six years he served as a member of the democratic central committee, was clerk of the township for two terms and also served as clerk of the town for two terms. He was a member of the board of education for six years and was city treasurer four years. That the quick and capable performance of his duties won the endorsement of the entire community is indicated by the fact that he received the highest honor in the power of his fellow townsmen to bestow upon him in his election to the office of mayor.

Mr. Young laid the foundation of a happy home life in his marriage to Miss Josephine Bolly, the ceremony being celebrated on the 10th of November, 1881, in Loudonville. Mrs. Young is a native of this city, born November 28, 1859, while her parents, Simon and Mary (Young) Bolly, were natives of Switzerland and Ohio respectively. The father, born in Beringen, Switzerland, in 1827, crossed the Atlantic to New York in 1851 and remained in that city for a year and a half. He then removed to Pennsylvania, where he resided for a year and then, in 1853, came to Loudonville, Ohio, where he was first employed on the railroad for about a year anda half. He next secured employment in Jefferson Bull 's foundry, where he continued for seven' years, at the end of which time he went into partnership with Joseph Lyons in the foundry business. This relation existed for two and a half years, after which Mr. Bolly established a grocery and restaurant business. He was well known in the community and served for two years as township clerk, was also township treasurer and served as a member of the village council. He passed away in Loudonville, April 16, 1884, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Young and whose birth occurred June 3, 1835, in this city, still survives and makes her home in Loudonville. In their family were seven children: Mary, the wife of Peter Odson, of Mansfield; Margaret, the wife of D. T. Derrenberger, of Loudonville; Josephine, who wedded Frank P. Young; Amanda, who makes her home with her mother; Julia, who passed away December 8, 1885; Emil, residing in Mansfield; and Mrs. Elizabeth Derr, a resident of Wooster, Ohio. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Young were born four children: Harry Arthur; Mary Katharine, the wife of Milton Sprang; Bernice A.; and Helen, who died in infancy.

Mr. Young is a member of the Trinity Evangelical church and belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity. That he was called to official positions of honor and trust indicates the fact that he occupies a high place in public regard and enjoys in large measure the confidence of his fellowmen. His career has ever been such as to warrant the trust of the business world for he has ever conducted all transactions on the strictest principles of honor and integrity. His devotion to the public good is unquestioned and arises from a sincere interest in the welfare of his fellowmen. Loudonville has benefited by his efforts in her behalf and he is classed among her foremost citizens.

Clark Vanosdall

Clark Vanosdall, superintendent of the Ashland cemetery, was born in Huron county, this state, May 21, 1844, a son of Nathan and Sarah (Finley) Vanosdall. The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of the Buckeye state. The father removed to Huron county when a boy with his parents and remained there until 1845, when he removed to this county, locating in Jackson township on a farm. Later he took up his residence in Ashland where he spent his remaining days, departing this life February 16, 1892, in his seventy-second year.

On his father's farm Clark Vanosdall spent his boyhood days, acquiring his education in the neighboring schools, and at the age of fourteen years removed with his parents to Ashland, where four years later he secured a position as stage driver, traveling between this city and Wooster. He continued in this occupation for three years, when he gave it up, owing to the fact that the railroad took the place of the old stage line. He then opened an eating house in Polk, Ashland county, which he conducted for about a year, and on the expiration of that time he settled on a farm near Shelby, Richland county, this state, engaging for four years in general agriculture. Upon returning to Ashland in 1885 he was appointed superintendent of the Ashland cemetery, in which position he has since served. When he assumed charge of this plat of ground it was overgrown with briers, but through his constant care and management he succeeded im weeding out the undergrowth and developing the premises until it is today one of the most beautiful tracts of land in the city and is accounted one of the finest cemeteries of its size in the state of Ohio.

On June 21, 1866, Mr. Vanosdall was united in marriage to Miss Isabelle Willis, of Ashland, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Saner) Willis, and to this union have been born eight children: Harry B., who is engaged in the furniture and real-estate business here; William L., a grocery clerk of this city ; Carsons B., a well known Ashland barber; Arthur Lire local mail carrier ; Ray W., a local postal clerk; Henry M., engaged in the furniture business in this city with his brother, Harry B.; Charles S., a cement block manufacturer of this place; and Cloyd J., city agent for soft drinks. wae

Mr. Vanosdall has been allied with the democratic party all his life, being loyal to its candidates in national and state polities, but in local affairs he takes an independent stand, casting his vote for such men as in his opinion are best qualified to serve in the offices they seek irrespective of party ties. He holds membership in the German Baptist church, while his wife is affiliated with that denomination of Christians known as the Disciples of Christ, and both are liberal contributors to their respective church organizations. Mr. Vanosdall is well known and highly esteemed as a citizen and business man and justly deserves the excellent reputation which he enjoys.

Elijah W. Miles

Elijah W. Miles, proprietor of the Loudonville Creamery, is carrying on an extensive business in this direction and is meeting with gratifying success. He was born in Bluffton, Wells county, Indiana, September 26, 1862, a son of Thomas and Susan (Rollings) Miles. Natives of Cambridgeshire, England, they came to the United States in early life and were here married. The father passed away in Michigan, in August, 1905. at the age of seventy years, but the mother still survives him, residing in Buchanan, Michigan. In their family were five children: William T., a resident of Guthrie, Oklahoma; Arthur J., residing in Buchanan, Michigan; Emma, deceased; Elijah W., of this review; and Samuel R., also of Buchanan, Michigan.

When about five years of age Elijah W. Miles accompanied his parents on their removal from their Indiana home to Michigan, and in that state his boyhood days were spent on a farm located between Buchanan and Niles in Berrian county. There he remained, assisting his father in the work of the farm, until twenty-one years of age, when he went to Iowa and for about two years was employed in various creameries. At the expiration of that time he returned to Michigan and in 1891 came to Loudonville. In the spring of the following year he established himself in the creamery business here, and the previous experience which he had had in this line of business activity throughout the states of Lowa. Ohio and Michigan, served as a good foundation upon which to start this new enterprise. Although he commenced in a small way, as the years went by his energy, diligence and perseverance have proved important factors in his success and today he ranks among the well known and prosperous representatives of this field of labor. During the year 1908 his creamery had an output of thirteen hundred pounds of butter daily, while not only the local dealers but also the towns surrounding Loudonville ship their cream to him.

On the 6th of April, 1893, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Miles to Annette G. Golding, a native of Huron county and a daughter of Alfred and Mary (Smith) Miles, natives of Connecticut and Huron county, Ohio, respectively. The former removed to Huron county in childhood and both have continued to reside in that county until their deaths, the father dying September 9, 1901, and the mother September 19, 1903. In their family are five children, all residing in Huron county with the exception of Mrs. Miles. They are: Emor; Alfred; Mrs. E. W. Miles; Delia, the wife of Charles Leak; and Amelia, who wedded George Scane. Mr. and Mrs. Miles have one son, Stanley G., born in Loudonville, January 15, 1900, who is the life and light of their home.

Mr. Miles and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are interested in the work of the church, Mr. Miles being superintendent of the Sunday school for sixteen years. He is now serving his fifth year on the board of education, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion. He is public-spirited in his citizenship and his business integrity and personal worth have gained'for him the regard and esteem of all with whom he has been brought in contact. The family residence is a twelve-room house situated on South Water street, built by Mr. Miles in 1897, and its hospitality is enjoyed by a large circle of warm friends of the family.

Franklin W. Ganyard

Franklin W. Ganyard has pursued a prosperous business career, making his own way in the world from a station of comparative obscurity to his present responsible position of order clerk for the F. E. Myers & Brother, pump works, and he is now numbered among the leading business men of Ashland. He is of French descent, the family having come to this country at an early date, first settling in Connecticut, whence they removed to New York state. Abner Ganyard, the grandfather, came to Ohio locating in Granger township, Medina county, in 1818 and there Calvin S. Ganyard, father of our subject, was born December 20, 1833, and spent his entire life on the same property. During manhood he held all the township offices except that of treasurer and at the outbreak of the Civil war he answered the call to arms and was commissioned captain of state militia. He was quite well known throughout the county and in 1892 was elected state representative, the duties of which office he performed for two terms, acquitting himself with considerable distinction. While his educational advantages were limited his opportunities in this line being confined to a course of study in the village institution and two terms in an academy, he was nevertheless a man who finally gained the reputation of being studious and learned. his thirst for knowledge driving him to reading and he acquired a fund of information which made him the equal and in many instances the superior of those who had much higher educational privileges. In 1857 he was united in marriage to Miss Marietta Simmons, who departed this life in 1897 in her sixtieth year and in 1899 he wedded her sister, Mrs. Helen Southmade, who still survives. He departed this life August 3, 1907. By his first wife he had five children, four of whom are living, namely: Perry A., an agriculturist of Summit county; Charles Z., who resides on the old home place; Franklin W.; and Fred D., a merchant of Medina county.

Franklin W. Ganyard was born in Granger township, Medina county, Ohio, January 16, 1866, and acquired his education in the common schools. At eighteen years of age he started out in the world to shift for himself, his first venture being in the Erie Railroad office at Wadsworth, and while in that position he applied himself to the study of telegraphy. One year later having become proficient in that line, he was made operator and clerk of the Wadsworth office, remaining in that position for something over two years, when he was transferred to West Salem as agent for the same company and had charge of the office for five years and a half. Severing his connection with the Erie Railroad Company he engaged in the shoe business in West Salem, being identified with the enterprise for three years, at the termination of which period he reverted to railroad work. In the spring of 1898 he was assigned to Akron, Ohio, as night ticket agent and operator, remaining there for two years, when in the spring of 1900 he came to Ashland, where he was made cashier of the freight office, serving in that capacity for two and a half years, and upon resigning his position in October, 1902, he entered the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother, as order clerk, in which capacity he has since been engaged.

On April 12, 1888, Mr. Ganyard wedded Miss Rosa Bricker, of Wadsworth, a daughter of Henry H. and Mary (Acker) Bricker. Her father is a stone and brick mason of that city but her mother is deceased. This union has been blessed by five children: Clayton H., a machinist in the employ of F. E. Myers & Brother; Paul C., a student at high school; Thelma May; Herbert K.; and Donald E., an infant.

Mr. Ganyard is prominent in political circles, his views being decidedly republican, and at present he is an infiuential member of the city council. He belongs to Mohican Lodge, No. 85, I. O. O. F.; is a member of the Encampment and Daughters of Rebekah and has served in all the chairs of the lodge. Mr. Ganyard has always evinced the highest business ability, being invaluable to the firm in the capacity in which he is officiating, and he deserves mention among the representative business men of the city.

George Milton Morr

George Milton Morr. a strong factor in the financial circles of Ashland owning a half interest in the Morr Shoe Manufacturing Company, one of tiie city's wealthiest industrial enterprises, was born in Perry township, this county April 30, 1859, a son of Emanuel and Eliza (Myers) Morr, both of whom ens natives of Pennsylvania. The elder Mr. Morr was born in 1828 and when three years of age, in 1831, accompanied his parents, John and Hannah (Sunday) Morr, to this county, where they purchased a farm containing one hundred and twelve acres in Perry township. The grandfather and his brothers, Daniel: and Andrew, located here at the time and they purchased two adjoining quarter sections of land which they divided into three farms. Emanuel Morr was reared on the farm owned by the grandfather of our subject and spent his life there engaged in general agriculture and stock raising, passing away January 24,1877. A democrat in politics, he was always loyal to the candidates of his party and while he was never ambitious to hold office, he consented upon several oceasions to serve the township in minor capacities. In company with his wife he attended divine services at the Evangelical church, of which both were members. The mother was born in 1829 and came to this county when a child with her parents, Jacob and Mary (Stine) Myers, who located in Perry township in the same locality in which her husband's family settled. She entered into rest in 1895 in her sixty-sixth year.

George Milton Morr spent his boyhood days on the home farm, and being the oldest of the family, he was compelled to assume management of the farm on the death of his father when he was but eighteen years of age. He acquired his education in the district schools. After his marriage he settled down to a life of husbandry, making his residence at home until the estate was settled, when he inherited the old homestead, which he still owns. Shortly after his mother's death he rented the property and removed to Ashland early in the year 1900, and here he engaged in the retail shoe business, in which he has been wonderfully successful and has built up the largest enterprise of the kind here. In 1908, associated with E. E. Morr, he embarked in the manufacturing business, incorporating what is known as the Morr Shoe Manufacturing Company. The firm produces all grades of men's, boys' and youths' footwear. The business is growing very rapidly and becoming one of Ashland's most important and thriving industries.