Benton Township (part 1 of 2)

Benton Township

. George and Sarah J. (Daniels) Allison. The father was born in Marion county on the 29th of February, 1826, came to Benton township in 1852 and purchased eighty acres of land now owned by Mrs. Hannah Snyder, Richard Snyder and George Birkhold. He was one of the early school directors and a life-long member of the United Brethren church, of which he was exhorter many years. His political belief embraced the principles of the republican party. In 1848 his marriage with Miss Sarah

Daniels occurred and seven children were born to them, namely: John (deceased), Isaac, George C. (deceased), James A. (deceased), William J., Mary E. (deceased), and Emma E. (deceased). Mr. Allison died September 25, 1865, and his wife, who survived him, afterward married Henry Beal, and died November 5, 1872. Isaac Allison, the subject of this notice, was raised on the ho:nestead farm and received a common school education. In 1876 he purchased his present farm, which is now under cultivation and well improved. Mr. Allison was married December 15, 1872, to Miss Annie C., the daughter of Peter Neigh, of Benton township, and six children were born to them: Martha E., born August 10, 1876; Bertha A., born March 1, 1878; Della M., born August 10, 1879; Rose A., born May 24, 1882; Emily E., born September 14, 1884; Elmer F., born April 14, 1887. Politically Mr. Allison is connected with the republican party.

George P. Armstrong is a native of West Virginia, and first saw the light in Preston county, May 8, 1849. He is the son of I. F. and Elizabeth (Cupp) Armstrong, honored citizens of the county of their residence. George Armstrong, the immediate subject of this notice, was raised and educated from the age of thirteen, in the county of Hocking. He remained at home until 1883, when he settled in Benton township, on a farm of forty acres, where he now lives. Politically, Mr. Armstrong has been a democrat for some time, and has filled the minor township offices. In 1873 his marriage with Miss Harriet, the daughter of James Thrush, of Hocking county, occurred, and six children came to bless this union, namely: Arthur M., Thurman P., Edward M., John H., Frank L. and Myrtle M. The family are members in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal church, of Payne. Fraternally, Mr. Armstrong belongs to the P. of H. Grange, of Benton township.

Isaac Armstrong.- - I. F. and Elizabeth (Cupp) Armstrong, natives of West Virginia and Fayette county, Penn., respectively, are the parents of Isaac N. Armstrong, who was born in West Virginia, August 28, 1847. He attended the common schools and at the age of thirteen years went with his parents to Hocking county, where the father died in 1886. The mother, who is still living, resides on the homestead. Our subject remained on the farm until the death of his father, when he removed to his present farm, in Benton township. While a resident of Hocking county, Mr. Armstrong was a school director and supervisor. Miss Rebecca J. Coulter became his wife in 1869, and these children, Bertha B., Peter S. and Walter I., were born tothem. Mrs. Armstrong is the daughter of Peter Coulter, of Stow township, Hocking county. Her husband is a member of Payne Lodge, No. 725, I. O. O. F., and the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church.

Dr. 6. E. Brattain is a son of R. L. and Aurelia (Hubbard) Brattain. Our subject's native town is Big Springs, Logan county, Ohio. He received his early education in the common schools; at the age of thirteen he entered the normal school at Rushsylvania, Ohio, where he remained two years, and was subsequently graduated from Bellefontaine high school in 1878. He then commenced the study of medicine with Dr. R. Edmons, of Ridgeway, Ohio, and graduated from the Fort Wayne medical college in 1882, but commenced to practice in 1880. In June, 1882, he located at Payne, where he has since resided, engaged in the practice of his profession. The doctor was married in 1884 to Miss Augretta, daughter of John Printz, of Ridgeway, Ohio. Politically, our subject is a democrat. He is treasurer of Paulding county United States pension examining board, is a member of Payne lodge, No. 725, I. O. O. F., also K. of L., Payne local, No. 2786, and the county and district medical society.

John D. Brown. - Prominent among the well known citizens and edueators of Paulding county is Prof. John D. Brown, who was born in Jackson county, Ohio, June 3, 1840, the son of Isaac and Barsheba (Darling) Brown, natives of New York and West Virgina respectively. John D. Brown received his education in the common schools and Ewing academy. In 1861, in answer to his country's call, he enlisted in company E, Twenty-seventh Ohio volunteer infantry, and took part in the battles of New Madrid, Island No. 10, Corinth, Kenesaw Mountain, and the Atlanta campaign. At the close of the war he returned to Jackson county and at once engaged in teaching in the public schools. In 1868 he entered the employ of the Latrobe furnace company at Berlin, Ohio, and for two years acted as clerk in this establishment. He then taught for three years, and was elected a member of the board of examiners. He spent one year at Zaleski, Ohio, as superintendent of the schools, was elected county surveyor of Jackson county for four years, again returned to Zaleski, serving as superintendent for five years, and at the end of this time was a clerk in the employ of the Zaleski coal company for one year. His next appointment was as superintendent of the schools at Cedarville, Greene county, Ohio, in which he served one year, when he was called to

Benton township, Paulding county, where he taught one session. From this place he went to Payne as superintendent of the schools there, filling the office for three years. In 1887 Mr. Brown purchased his farm of eighty acres and engaged in cultivating the soil. He is a member of the county board of examiners and is a republican in politics. Prof. Brown is eminently a self-made man, and whatever success he has achieved has been the reward of diligent and persevering labor. He was married in 1865 to Miss Orinda E., the daughter of Wilson and Hannah (Grey) Liston, and unto the union six children have been born; four are living, named Burdsall B., Homer L., Orris E. and Walter R. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Payne, in which Prof. Brown has been steward and chorister. He is also a member of the John M. Stabler Post, No. 179, G. A. R.

J. W. Cartwright, M. D.. was born in Allen county, Ind., July 9, 1856, the son of Samuel and Lovinia B. (Pierce) Cartwright. He was reared upon the homestead farm and his preliminary education was obtained in the common schools. He entered the Fort Wayne university and graduated from the Fort Wayne high school in 1878. He completed his scholastic study of medicine with Dr. C. B. Stemen, of Fort Wayne. He graduated from the medical college of this city in 1882, and also from the medical department of the Long Island college hospital, at Brooklyn, N. Y. At this time he located at Argus, Marshall county, and commenced the active practice of medicine. In December, 1882, he settled in Payne, Ohio, and this place has been the theater of his work ever since. A close student, thoroughly devoted to his calling, and endowed by nature with a keen perception and strong reasoning powers, he has been the trusted physician and counselor in many difficult cases. Dr. Cartwright was united in marriage to Miss Florence N. McLauchlin, the daughter of Mrs. John H. Bonnell, of Arcola, Indiana, on the 19th of July, 1882, and their children are Dale Pierce, born May 29, 1883; Emor Lopp, born September 13, 1887, and Glenn Edon, born August 9, 1891. Mrs. Cartwright was born in Canada, February 17, 1860. She received a musical education and graduated at the Fort Wayne college, now Taylor university, in 1882. Her father was John L. McLauchlin, of Canada, who died in 1864. The doctor is a member of Payne lodge, No. 725, I. O. O. E., Payne lodge, No. 377, K. of P., and of Perseverance lodge, I. O. G. T., No. 502. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which organization he holds the offices of trustee and steward.

W. T. Cress. - Among the leading farmers of Benton township is W. T. Cress, who was born in Miami county, Ohio, November 29, 1833. He is the son of George M. and Sylvilla (Baetz) Cress, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Ohio. George M. Cress was born in Floyd county in 1806; came to Benton township in 1852, and settled upon the farm where our subject now resides. He and his wife are venerable residents of the county, and live with their son on the old homestead. Their family consisted of Cynthiana (deceased), William John (deceased), Jackson (deceased), and James M. (deceased). The marriage of these parents occurred March 19, 1829. W. T. Cress, our immediate subject, was raised in his native county, acquiring his schooling there. He learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until 1861, when he enlisted in company D, Thirtieth Indiana volunteer infantry, serving six months. He was discharged for injuries received on the march from Virginia to Green River, Ky. Returning home, he settled upon the homestead farm and engaged in tilling the soil. He was married, on the 11th of September, 1856, to Mary, the daughter of Jacob Lehman, of Benton township. They have four children, named Emmett, Chester B., U. S., George M. Mr. Cress, who is a republican, member of the John M. Stabler post, No. 179, G. A. R.

A. W. Deardorff, liveryman, was born in September, 1857, in Logan county, Ohio, and in childhood removed with his parents, Abraham and Mary (Brown) Deardorff, both natives of Pennsylvania, of German and Irish extraction, to Kosciusko county, Ind., and remained under the parental roof until thirteen years of age. Not being strong, he began learning the miller's trade, and later became an expert engineer, spending several years in charge of stationary engines. In 1882 he began working for N. E. Prentice & Co., of Antwerp, Ohio. The following year he came to Payne to superintend the building of the bucket factory and continued a trusted employe until 1887, when he resigned and purchased a livery stock and established his present business. He keeps a good stock and is very popular where known. Starting out a poor boy, his business shows what industry and economy will do. Mr. Deardorff was deprived of an education, save as his own preceptor. He affiliates with the republican party and is a member of the K. of P. He was

M. B. Everitt, an enterprising young attorney of Payne, Ohio, is a native of Defiance county, dating his birth from the 26th of December, 1861. He is the son of John and Martha (McKinney) Everitt, residents of Ohio. M.B. Everitt received his early education in the public schools, completing the same at the Bryan normal. He graduated at the age of seventeen years and commenced teaching in the schools of Paulding county, continuing the same seven years. Wishing to follow the profession of law, he studied with Hon. James E. Coulter, of Hicksville, and was admitted by the supreme court of Ohio, in 1884, to the practice. In partnership with Mr. Coulter, he practiced for one year at Hicksville, and then located at Payne, where he has made commendable progress. He is a republican in politics, and a prominent member of the Payne lodge, K. of P. Mr. Everitt was married in 1882 to Miss Ida, the daughter of Clement and Ellen Hulbert, of Defiance county, and a member of one of the pioneer families of that place. Three children, of whom two are now living, were born to Mr. and Mrs. Everitt. Glenn and Ford are the names of the survivors. Mr. Everitt is recognized as one of the prominent men in the county and is bound to succeed in his chosen profession.

Michael Finan, the present efficient treasurer of Paulding county, is engaged in the hardware business at Payne, Ohio, where he carries on a prosperous trade. He was born in Allen county, Ind., near what is now Fort Wayne, on December 24, 1852. His parents are John and Ellen (Moran) Finan, both natives of county Sligo, Ireland, born respectively in the years 1803 and 1813. In 1847 they emigrated to America and landed in upper Canada, where they remained for a time and then removed to Lake county, Ohio, settling at Painseville. In 1850, Mr. Finan brought his family to Paulding county, and located upon land which had been entered by James Dunn. Mr. Dunn made his home with them and in time Mr. Finan became prosperous and purchased eighty acres of land in Benton township. Their nearest neighbor was a mile and a half from them and the nearest town, Fort Wayne, was twenty-two miles. Mr. Finan was the sixth voter to locate in this township and he experienced all the vicissitudes and struggles of a pioneer life. He was not much of a hunter and never killed but one animal. In 1851, he removed to Fort Wayne, returning in 1853 to his forest home. He raised flax which was spun into cloth, from which the clothing of the family was made. Mr. Finan and his wife resided upon their farm until 1888, at which time they removed to Payne, Ohio, where they are now enjoying the fruits of well spent lives. The family are members of the Catholic church, and politically Mr. Finan has always voted the democratic ticket. Michael Finan, the immediate subject of this sketch, was but one year of age when brought to Paulding county by his parents, and was here educated in the indifferent schools of his day. Heremained under the parental roof assisting his father until his marriage, which occurred on the 24th of September, 1878, at which time Miss Mary Powers, a native of Emerald township, born in 1858, became his wife. She is a daughter of Thomas and Margaret Powers, early settlers of Paulding county. In January, 1882, Mr. Finan abandoned farming and purchased astock of hardware, locating with it in Payne, where he had built the previous season. The first article he sold was a cross-cut saw, which was purchased at the depot before the goods had been removed to the store. In his business venture, Mr. Finan has been successful. His stock has been increased and is valued at $6,000. It is now in charge of his brothers, Peter and Thomas Finan. Mr. Finan is an agressive politician and as a democrat has served as trustee of Harrison township for two terms; was trustee of Payne for the same length of time, and in 1866 was elected to the office of county treasurer. He was renominated at the next election, but was defeated by a small majority. In 1890 he was again nominated for the same office, and was elected by a majority of 385. He took the oath of office in September, 1891, and has proven himself a competent and popular official. Mr. and Mrs. Finan are the parents of Clara E. and Anna, and are worthy members of the Catholic church. Their social standing is of the best and they enjoy the esteem of the community in which they reside. Mr. Finan was reared amid rural scenes, in which he learned the lessons of industry, economy, integrity and perseverance, characteristics have that been illustrated in all his subsequent life.

Hiram K. Gaut, a real estate and insurance agent, is the worthy mayor of Payne. He was born in Harrison county, Ohio, June 11, 1841, the son of Joseph and Sarah (McClish) Gaut, natives of Ohio. He was educated in the common schools and resided upon the homestead farm until November 22, 1861, when he entered the army in Company C, Sixty-eighth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served until April 3,1865. At the close of the war he settled in Indiana and followed various occupations. In 1869 he came to Payne, returned to Indiana in 1871, and subsequently embarked in the mercantile and lumber business in the former place. In 1872 he was appointed postmaster and filled the office until 1885; in 1882 was elected justice of the peace and served for nine years, and in 1883 was the choice of the people for mayor of the town. He has served in the last position continuously ever since and also held the oce of constable for three years. He established his real estate and insurance business in 1882,and has been successfully engaged in the same. His marriage, which occurred in 1866, to Miss Elizabeth, the daughter of Christian Stabler, of Paulding county, resulted in the birth of H. E., Caroline A., the wife of M. O. Lawson; Franklin L., Alpheus, Cora A., Grace D., Peter E., and Nora E. Mr. Gaut isa member of the John Stabler post, No. 179, G. A. R., Payne lodge, No. 725, I. O. O. F., and the K. of P., No. 377. Mr. and Mrs. Gaut attend the Disciples church, in which the former is an elder. Politically he belongs to the republican arty. |, Bhinchart Gearling. - One of the prominent and influential men of Paulding county is Rhinehart Gearling, who was born in Hesse, Darmstadt, Germany, in October, 1824. His parents were Rhinehart and Elizabeth Barbara Gearling, natives of the Fatherland. At the age of twenty-six the subject of this sketch, in 1850, emigrated to the United States and first located in Crawford county, Ohio, where he remained for two years, working at farming. He then went to Mansfield, where he found employment in a livery stable for three years. In 1855, on coming to Paulding county, he settled in Benton township upon 160 acres of land, which he had purchased. He added to this land until at i present he is the owner of 396 acres of good ground, 150 of which he has succeeded by hard work in getting under cultivation. He has built a fine residence upon his land and all his buildings have modern conveniences. Mr. Gearling led to the altar in 1855 Miss Mary Riley, a native of Germany, and unto this union these children have been born: Mary, ` Michael, Rhinehart, Gotlieb, Louisa, the wife of David Shiffer; Kate . (deceased), who married Frank Kerns; Conrad, Adam, Christian and Caroline. The father of these sons and daughters is a democrat in politics and has filled the office of township supervisor. He and his __ wife are members of the Lutheran church and the family enjoy universal | popularity. Frank Gideon, junior member of the firm of Gideon Bros., manufacturers of lumber, is a son of Henry and Lydia (Bedleheimer) Gideon He was born in Franklin county, Ohio, on the 6th of April, 1852, and with his parents moved to Adams county, Ind., where he was raised and , given a common school training. His youth was spent upon the farm, in 1873, with his brothers, Henry and John, he purchased 160 acres mill is also run in section 29, Benton township. Mr. Gideon is also engaged in farming, in which pursuit he is successful, operating a farm of _ eighty acres in Adams county. In 1872, his marriage to Miss Kate, the | daughter of David Mumma, occurred, and two children, Rolla and Glenn, -are the issue of this union. Politically, Mr. Gideon is identified with the democratic party.

Henry L. Gideon, deceased, was born August 6, 1848, the son of Henry and Lydia (Bedleheimer) Gideon, of Franklin county, Ohio. He was reared to manhood in Adams county, Ind., and at the age of eighteen years found employment as a brakeman on the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago R. R. for three years. He then engaged in the lumber business in Benton township, Paulding county, in partnership with his brothers, John and Frank, under the firm name of Gideon Bros. Miss Hannah E., the daughter of James Stevens, of Adams county, Ind., became the wife of Mr. Gideon in 1868, and now resides upon the farm where they settled in 1873. Henry L. Gideon departed this life on the 18th of December, 1888, his death resulting from Bright's disease of the kidneys. He was

Dr. C. V. Gorrell. - Prominent among the well known physicians of Paulding county is Dr. C. V. Gorrell, who was born in Trumbull county, January 4, 1843, the son of Joseph and Easter (Glass) Gorrell, natives of Beaver county, Penn. In 1845 the parents removed to Wells county, Ind., where the subject of this notice received his education and was reared to manhood. In 1862 he enlisted in company K, Seventy-fifth Indiana volunteer infantry, and served loyally until the close of the war. At the battle of Hoover's Gap, Tenn., he had the misfortune to lose the sight of his right eye by a part of a gun-cap, which entered the ball. He participated in the engagements under Gen. Rosecrans, was with Sherman on his march to the sea, and took part in the battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge and the campaign to Atlanta. At the close of the hostilities, Mr. Gorrell returned home and read medicine under Dr. J. I. Metts, of Indiana, and graduated from the Fort Wayne medical college in 1884. In 1870 he began the practice of his profession in Summitville, Ind., where he remained for four years. On account of ill health Dr. Gorrell then located at Clyde, Iowa, where he practiced until 1880, and in August of that year removed to Payne, where he has since resided. In April, 1869, Miss Alfonna, the daughter of David Hayden, of Allen county, became the wife of Dr. Gorrell, and they are the parents of Don. C. Gorrell, Joseph D. Gorrell (deceased), Orleno G. Gorrell, Claudius D. Gorrell and Erma Wilde Gorrell. Fraternally the doctor is a member of the Masonic order, I. O. O. F. and G. A. R. The family are members of the Disciples church.

Dr. John Harrod. - One of the enterprising young physicians of this county is Dr. John Harrod, who dates his birth from the 4th of January, 1863. He is the son of Morgan and Belinda (Beam) Harrod, natives of Knox county, Ohio, and was bornin Allen county, Ind. His early education was obtained in the common schools and at Taylor university, Ft. Wayne, Ind. After graduating from this institution, he taught school for five years, and in 1883 commenced the study of medicine under the direction of Dr. J. L. Smith, of Hoaglin, Ind. Mr. Harrod graduated from the Eclectic institute of Cincinnati in 1887, and commenced the practice of his chosen profession the same year at Payne. He is considered one of the leading physicians of the locality in which he resides and the future is bright before him. Dr. Harrod was happily married to Miss Lucinda Berkhold, on Christmas day, 1889, and they have one son, named Paul. Mrs. Harrod is the daughter of John M. Berkhold, of Benton township, Paulding county. Politically the doctor is an adherent to the principles of the democratic party. Fraternally he is a member of Payne lodge, No. 725, I. O. O. F.

W. R. Hughes, an extensive manufacturer of tile and brick, is a native of Ohio, born in Logan county, September 16, 1847, the son of W. P. and Maria (Watson) Hughes. Mr. Hughes was raised in Logan county, remaining upon the homestead farm until twenty-one years of age. In 1880 he came to Paulding county and purchased his present farm of eighty acres. Four years later he organized a company consisting of himself, A. M. Bailey and W. H. Stewart, for the manufacture of tile and brick. The partners subsequently sold their interests to R. Bartlett and Thomas Finon, who are associated with Mr. Hughes at the present time. They are doing a prosperous business and turn out first-class work, which finds a ready sale. Mr. Hughes was married to Mary E. McCrary, October 5, 1873, and is the father of five children, named Oceolla, Corrill O., Wilkinson E., Blanche G. (deceased), and William R. Mr. Hughes has made a substantial success of life, which few men from so humble a beginning accomplish. He is self-made in every respect, and is one of the leading citizens in the township of his residence. In 1865 heenlisted in company I, One Hundred and Ninety-second Ohio volunteer infantry, and served until the close of the war. He is a member of the John M. Stabler post, No. 179, G. A. R. The tile and brick establishment of W. R. Hughes & Co., was erected in 1884 by W. H. Hughes, A. M. Bailey and Wade H. Stewart. The two latter gentlemen sold their interests in 1889 to Robert Bartlett and Thomas Finon. The manufactory has a capacity of 10,000 brick and 6,400 tile per day, and employ six hands. They have one kiln, three drying sheds, 100x20 and 100x25, and the engine which is used is of ten-horse power.

Henry Hyman, the efficient ex-treasurer of Paulding county, now the genial banker and hardware merchant of Payne, Ohio, is a native of Prussia, born in Nassau on the 6th of April, 1846. He is the son of William C. and Margaret (Upperman) Hyman, who are mentioned elsewhere in this work. Mr. Hyman was educated in the schools of Huron county, Ohio, and was reared on the farm. At the age of twenty-six he engaged in the manufacture of staves in Ohio and Indiana, and in 1880 located in Payne, where he embarked in the lumber trade. Subsequently he established a hardware business and in connection with it manufactured staves. In 1888 he was elected county treasurer on the republican ticket and filled that position with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. In 1871 Mr. Hyman married Miss Caroline, the daughter of George Schonebarger of Wyandot county, and they are the parents of five children, whose names are Charles, Harry, Ralph, Noble and an infant at present unnamed. Mr. and Mrs. Hyman are members of the German Reformed church of Payne, in which organization Mr. Hyman holds the office of deacon.

lished in 1887, was born at Adrian, Seneca county, Ohio, May 24, 1849, son of William and Nancy (Cline) Johnson, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively - the former of Scotch-Irish and the latter of German parentage. The grandfather, Archibald Johnson, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and in 1821 located on Black river, near Cleveland. Subsequently located in Seneca county, locating in the forest on land entered by his father, and here reared a large family. The father of our subject grew to manhood in this county, and became a well-to-do farmer, where he yet lives and enjoys the fruits of his earlier life. He is a stanch democrat, and Mrs. Johnson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Our subject was reared to manhood a farmer's boy, having the advantages of the common schools, and before he was seventeen years of age was a teacher in the public schools, which he followed successfully, spending his vacations upon the farm; subsequently attended two terms Heidelburg college, after which he resumed teaching; then took a scientific course at Ada, where he graduated in the the spring of 1879 with honors. In the spring following he located at Green Springs, Ohio, where he edited the Green Springs Times, and while here taught school a portion of his time in connection with his newspaper work. Later he was associate editor of the Tiffin News for a time, when he again located at Green Springs, and engaged as civil engineer on the N. Y. & O. railroad; then as proprietor and editor of the Green Springs Times, after which he established the Holgate Times, which he edited for five years. In 1887 he removed to Payne, Ohio, and started the Payne Review, which he has conducted since, it being a welledited, newsy paper. Mr. Johnson has devoted a portion of his time to surveying along with his newspaper work. He is a stanch democrat, and is the party nominee for county surveyor, and if elected will make an efficient officer. Mr. Johnson is a member of the I. O. O. F., K. of P., and K. of L. He was married, March 12, 1871, to Miss Nettie Hahn, of Seneca county, born August 22, 1852, of German parentage, her father being Frederick Hahn. Two children were born to this marriage - twins - Annie and Marion, born October 7, 1884.

Henry King, a member of one of the prominent pioneer families of Ohio, and one of the old and highly respected citizens of Benton township, was born in Perry county, May 8, 1831. His parents were Christian and Margaret (Bashore) King, the former a native of Germany, who came to this country with his parents and settled in Pennsylvania, Subsequently they removed to Perry county, where our subject was raised and given a common education. He was early employed as a farm hand and purchased forty acres of land, where he lived until 1864, when he came to Paulding and bought his present farm of eighty acres. His marriage with Miss Margaret, the daughter of William Clum, of Perry county, was consummated in 1855, and of the thirteen children born to them but five are now living: William A., David L., Jacob A., Mary E., wife of John Barnhill, of Benton township, and Sarah M. Mr. King, who is a democrat, has filled the office of township trustee for three terms. He is a member of the Reformed church, in which he has been an elder for ten years. William King, the eldest son of Henry, was born in Perry county on the 23d of October, 1857. He has lived in Benton township since childhood, receiving his schooling there. He chose farming as his occupation and in 1883 commmenced work upon his father-in-law's farm. He then bought his present place of forty acres which he cleared and upon which he erected fine buildings. His marriage occurred in 1879, at which time Miss Samantha Stabler became his wife. Their children are: Ephraim H., Addie M., C., John M. and William F. Mr. King, who is a democrat, is one of the progressive men of his township. He and his wife are members of the Reformed church at Payne.

Jacob Lehman was born in Somerset county, Penn., October 8, 1809, the son of Jacob and Mary (Berutreager) Lehman, of French and German extraction. At the age of ten years, Jacob was taken by his father to Tuscarawas county, where the latter died in 1825, his wife departing this life ten years later. Our subject learned the carpenter's trade and carried on this business in connection with mill-wrighting for many years, both in his native and Paulding counties. October 24, 1851, he settled in Benton township, upon his present farm, which consists of one hundred and twenty acres of land, entered June 6, 1839. This farm was in the wilderness at the time of Mr. Lehman's purchase, but by hard work he has accomplished the clearing process, and now it is considered of the finest in the county. In 1880 he retired from active work, and is spending his declining years in the midst of peace and plenty. In early life Mr. Lehman was a democrat, but later he voted the republican ticket, and has since been a supporter of that party. In 1836 he married Susannah Lavengoode, of Pennsylvania, who died January 26,

1856, leaving seven children, as follows: Mary A., wife of W. T. Cress, of Benton township; Catherine, wife of Ephraim Stabler; Hannah (deceased), who married John Wilderson; Peter, John, Susannah (deceased), who married George Frederickson, and Samantha, who was twice married, first to Julian Vendeeley, and then to John Foreny. Mr. Lehman's second marriage was to Mrs. Elizabeth M. Wiley, the daughter of O. Woodcock, of Knox county. He is a member of the German Baptist church, and has been deacon in the organization for years. He is a representative citizen, the embodiment of those qualities which go to make up honorable manhood, and by his energy, probity, tact and good nature, has become one of the popular as well as progressive citizens of his township. Peter Lehman, the eldest son, is a native of Tuscarawas county, born September 16, 1843. His education was received in the common schools of Benton township, where, with his parents, he located in boyhood. In 1861 he.enlisted in the Sixty-eighth Ohio volunteer infantry, company C, and re-enlisted December 10, 1863, serving until July 20, 1865. He served his country faithfully, and participated in the following engagements: Fort Donelson, Thompson Hill, Champion Hills, Vicksburg, Black River, Kenesaw Plains, Brush Mountain and Atlanta, Ga. His regiment then followed Hood to Tennessee, and was with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. Mr. Lehman was at the siege of Savannah, Ga., and was one of eight in the first boat that crossed Broad river to drive the rebels out of the intrenchment. At the close of the war he returned to Benton township, and, locating upon the homestead farm, remained there until he purchased a home in Harrison township. In 1876 he returned to Benton, and in 1884 bought his present place, which he has improved. He married Miss Mary E. Stabler, who died, leaving John A., Elizabeth M., Samantha, Samuel and William. Mr. Lehman has filled the offices of town trustee and supervisor, and in the discharge of his official duties he manifested business qualifications of a high order. Rev. John Lehman was born February 24, 1845, was reared upon the homestead farm in Benton township, and received his education in the common schools. In the spring of 1864 he enlisted in company O, Sixty-eighth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served loyally until July 10, 1865, participating with his regiment in the engagements around Atlanta, and Sherman's march to the sea. Returning home after the close of hostilities, he in 1879 located upon his present farm, and is the possessor of one hundred and twenty-seven acres in section 18. In 1883 Mr. Lehman was appointed by the elders of the German Baptist church to the pastorate of the Flat Rock congregation, and he has since presided in that position. He has filled the positions of trustee, constable and supervisor, and in his politics he is of the republican belief. His marriage occurred May 24, 1866, at which time Miss Samantha J., the daughter of William P. Schock, became his wife. They are the parents of Delbert, William E., Jannette E., Jacob E. and Samuel H., and enjoy general popularity in the community in which they reside. Theobold Lothammer, retired farmer, is a native of Alsace, France, having first seen the light in 1808. His parents were Theobold and Catherine (Moses) Lothammer, residents of Alsace. After acquiring his schooling, Theobold Lothammer, Jr., learned the trade of wood turner, and followed the same until he emigrated to America in 1854. His first settlement was made in Crawford county, Ohio, where he remained for a time, and then purchased 160 acres of land in section 7, of Benton township. In company with his family he began the process of clearing his tract and built the little log cabin so familiar to every pioneer. Subsequently, Mr. Lothammer added to his previous purchase until he possessed nearly 300 acres, and when his sons left their home to begin life for themselves, he presented each one with a farm of forty acres. He had married, early in life (1832), Mary M., daughter of Joseph Gamber, of France, and the issue of this union was ten children, as follows: Theobold (deceased), Joseph, of Indiana; Anthony (deceased), Mary M., wife of Henry Stillsemberg; Teressa, wife of Peter Brady, of Benton township; Ignatius, of Benton; Maurice, of Benton; Agatha, the wife of Frank Quince, and two who died in infancy. In religious belief the family are communicants of St. John's Catholic church, at Payne. After a long life of usefulness Mr. Lothammer, at the death of his wife, August 15, 1889, retired from active business, and now resides with his son, Ignatius. The latter is the fourth son in the order of birth, having been born in Alsace, August 6, 1854. He was reared in the township where he now lives, and received his education in the schools of Paulding county. Through life he has followed the occupation of a farmer and has been successful in his calling. Leaving the old homestead in 1880, hê settled upon his present place. His marriage occurred in 1881, when Miss Kate, the daughter of Jacob Roswurm, of Erie county, became his wife. She was born in Germany, November 17, 1862, and by her marriage became the mother of three children: Francis C., Mary M. and Frederick I. Mr. Lothammer, who isa stanch supporter of the democratic party, affiliates with the members of the St. John's Roman Catholic church, at Payne, and is one of the representative citizens of Benton township. Maurice Lothammer, a brother of the foregoing, dates his birth from the 18th of September, 1864. He, like his brother, received his schooling in Benton township, and was reared to manhood as a tiller of the soil. February, 1887, he purchased eighty acres of land and settled upon forty acres adjoining his present farm, which is well improved. Subsequently he sold, in 1890, to Mr. Birkhold, this land, but has continued to make purchases until he now owns 120 acres of ground. He was united in marriage in February, 1878, to Miss Annie, the daughter of William Gillin, of Benton, and one child, Francis A., blessed this union. Maurice ~Lothammer is a genial gentleman, and one of the leading farmers of the township in which he resides.

Joseph V. McHenry, a well known physician of Paulding county, is a native of Ohio, born in Pickaway county, July 10, 1835, the son of William and Margaret (DeFord) McHenry. The maternal grandfather was a native of France who emigrated to this country prior to the Revolution- 'ary war, in which he served. Subsequently he settled in Pickaway county where he died at the advanced age of one hundred and nine years. The father of our subject was a native of Virginia and in 1836 settled in Putnam county and engaged in farming. It was here that Joseph McHenry spent his boyhood. He received a common education, which was added to by a course in the Finley academy. In 1#54 he formed one of a party of twelve who crossed the plains to California in search of wealth. Three years were spent in the gold mines, and in 1860 he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. J. B. Firestone, of Whitley county, Ind. In 1868 he graduated from the medical department of the Western Reserve college, of Ohio. Being thus well equipped, he began the practice of his profession at Cleveland, Ohio, and later removed to Allen county, Ind., where he remained üntil 1887, when he located at Payne, where he now resides in the enjoyment of a lucrative

, practice. Dr. McHenry is a progressive and public spirited citizen, who has done much to advance the best interests of the city and community in which he lives. In 1882, while a resident of Allen county, Ind., he was elected to represent the county in the state legislature and reelected in 1884. He has rendered good service to his party both in local and general contests. Politically he is looked upon as one of the stanch leaders and counselors of the democracy of his portion of the state. In 1864 Dr. McHenry was married to Miss Sarah E., the daughi ter of Nelson and Ann Dimmick, of Whitley county. They have had five children, three of whom are living, as follows: Clara, the wife of M. L. Barney, a merchant of Payne; Nettie, and Lester, of the firm of M. L. Barney & Co. The doctor is a member of Antwerp lodge, F. & A.M.

J. W. Mitchell, a leading young citizen of Benton township, was born in Licking county, Ohio, on the 30th of September, 1865, the son of Isaac and Louisa (Blamer) Mitchell. He was reared in the county of his

_ to Benton township, where the father died two years later. The mother afterward married and now resides in Michigan. J. W. Mitchell followed farming for some time, and on the 4th of March, 1891, in connection with W. A. Shaynfelt, purchased the tile and brick factory of George Spice, which they are at present conducting. Mr. Mitchell and Miss Clara Shaynfelt became husband and wife in 1886, and unto their union two bright children have been born. They are Isaac and Estella Mitchell. Mrs. Mitchell, who is the daughter of William Shaynfelt, is a lady possessing social qualities. She is very popular ip the community of her residence. Her husband, who shares her popularity, is a republican in politics.

Amos J. Mooney, a prominent farmer of Benton township, is a native of Ohio, being born in Tuscarawas County, November 14, 1852. His parents, Jacob and Sarah. (Johnson) Mooney, were natives respectively of Tuscarawas and Carroll counties, and in 1853, settled in Allen county, Ind., where the subject of this notice was reared. He remained on the home farm for twenty-four years, when he purchased his place of eighty acres, which he has cleared and improved. Mr. Mooney was married on

' the 16th of April, 1882, to Miss Salina Wiltsie, and by his marriage is the father of John E. and Samuel D. Mooney. The father of Mrs. Mooney is Samuel Wiltsie,an honored resident of Harrison township. Politically, Mr. Mooney adheres to the principles of the republican party. He is highly regarded as a good citizen in the county where he resides,

He was born June 26, 1864, the son of William and Elizabeth (Lowell) Shaynfelt, of Jay county, Ind., who came to Paulding county and settled in Benton township in 1871. Subsequently they removed to West Virginia, where the subject of this notice received his schooling and followed farming. Since the age of twenty-two he followed the latter occupation, but in March, 1891, he connected himself with J. W. Mitchell, under the firm name of Mitchell & Shaynfelt, manufacturers of tile and brick. They are now successfully engaged in this business, being progressive young men bound to prosper. Mr. Shaynfelt in his political belief adheres to the republican party.

J. W. Sherer, one of the representative men of Benton township, was born in Allen county, Ohio, July 6, 1854, and was the only son born to James and Margaret (Kennell) Sherer, natives of Virginia and White Haven, England, respectively. The former was of English and Scotch ex: traction and the latter of English parentage. Sherer spent his early life upon the farm and had the advantage of the common schools until 1873, when he entered the National normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, where he remained for two years, thus preparing himself for teaching at the age of nineteen years. He was studiously inclined, had a retentive memory, and thus made rapid advancement. He taught several terms in Allen county, then in 1877 came to Paulding county, where he taught for two years --the first three terms at Royal Oak and afterward at Charloe. He then in 1879 located in Auglaize county, Ohio, where he engaged in purchasing railroad ties and railroad supply timber. In 1881 he engaged with N. Moses & Brothers, of Cleveland, dealers in railroad ties and real estate, with whom he remained eight successive years, during which time he was very active in business, having a large field to work over, and was a worthy and trusted employe. He was practical in his business, and his judgment and honor were never questioned. In 1889 he resigned, and since has given his attention to his farm in Benton township. He located in Payne in 1885, where he enjoys a good comfortable home, which, along with his farm, is the result of his own efforts. Politically, Mr. Sherer is a republican and a member of lodge No. 725, I. O. O. F., also of the Defiance Encampment, No. 87. He was married October 21, 1880, to Miss Lilly J. Staley, daughter of Isaac Staley. By this union two sons, Edward Earl and an infant, have been born.

The Shugars Family. - _Henry Shugars was a native of Berks county, Penn.,and was born in 1813, the son of Michael Shugars. In 1840 he entered eighty acres of land in Benton township, and two years later settled upon the same, following the pursuit of the farmer all his life. He lived upon his land until his death, which occurred March 8, 1891, and in his demise the community lost one of its valued citizens. He married Miss Elizabeth Howman, a native of Pennsylvania, who died March 28, 1866. Their family consisted of these children: William, who died in the United States service at Washington, D. C., as a member of company I, One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio volunteer infanty; Barbara, the wife of Daniel Michael, who died July 9, 1889; Catherine, now Mrs. Eli Woods; Franklin and Henry. Henry Shugars, Sr., was, during his life, a member of the Lutheran church. Franklin, his son, was born August 3, 1849, in Benton township, and was reared to manhood on the homestead, obtaining his instruction in the county schools. In partnership with Henry, under the firm name of Shugar Bros., he began the breeding of horses and catt.e, and cultivated 288 acres of land. Asa republican he filled the office of supervisor for his township, and served the people acceptably. Mr.Shugars was married in June, 1880, to Miss Ann Brady, of Benton township, the daughter of Michael Brady, an old and wellknown resident of the county. They have three children, called Ella F., Mary B.,and William R., and are highly respected in the community where they reside. Henry Shugars, Jr., was the youngest son of the parents above sketched. His birth occurred February 15, 1852, and he was raised and educated in Benton township. He became a member of the firm of Shugars Bros., formed in 1871 for the purpose of stock raising, and is successful in his calling. In 1874, Mr. Shugars married Miss Catherine

Marion, and the union was blessed with the birth of one child, Viola G., born March 24, 1875. Mrs. Shugars is the daughter of William Marion, of Benton township, and with her husband enjoys general esteem. The latter is a republican in politics, and is interested in the welfare of his party.

J. E. Smiley, a prosperous merchant and 'manufacturer of Benton township, was born February 10, 1848, in Perry county, Penn. His parents were Andrew and Frances (Leaheart) Smiley, natives of Pennsylvania. Our subject was educated in the common schools and at the normal school of Millersville, Penn. Upon leaving this institution he taught school for some time, until at the age of twenty-four his health failed him and he came west, locating in Clarke county, Ohio, where he followed his profession. In 1882 he purchased the mercantile business of H. G. Hood, at what is now known as Smiley, and in 1883 succeeded in obtaining the postoffice at this place, naming it for himself. He was appointed postmaster, and has filled the office since to the satisfaction of the citizens. Mr. Smiley also conducts a saw mill and shingle and basket bottom factory. He owns about ?10 acres of land in Harrison township, and twenty-five in Benton, while his residence and business are at Smiley. Mr. Smiley was married, in 1880, to Miss Martha A., the daughter of John Bushong, of Champaign county, and they are the parents of Estelle, Warren, Alma, Frederick and Ethel M. Mr.and Mrs Smiley are members of the Lutheran church, and have the good will and respect of a large circle of friends. Politically, our subject is a supporter of the republican party.

Henry J. Smith, born in Logan county, Ohio, March 4, 1840, is the son of Solomon and Nancy (Jones) Smith, of German and French extraction. His youth was spent in his native county upon the farm, May 6, 1861, he enlisted in company F, Twenty-third Ohio volunteer infantry, for three years, and took part in seventeen hard-fought battles. He served for over four years, and received his discharge July 27, 1865. Upon his return home he engaged in farming in Darke county, Ohio, and there married Miss Elizabeth Kimbel, by whom he had one child, a daughter, named Mary A. Mrs. Smith died in 1872, and March 8, 1874, Mrs. Mary J. Kerns, widow of Henry H. Kerns, and a daughter of H. B. and Margaret A. (Hinkle) Budd, became the wife of Mr. Smith. Their children are: Allen H., Alice S., Satira E., and Rosa M., who are living, and Stella J, deceased. Mrs. Kerns had one daughter, Barbara A. Politically Mr. Smith is a republican, and with his wife belongs to the Methodist church. He located in Paulding county in 1881, and is a valued citizen of the community.

Isaac Snyder, Jr., a thriving farmer and justice of the peace of Benton township, was born in Champaign county, Ohio, January 22, 1850. His parents, Isaac and Eliza (Body) Snyder, reared and educated their son in Benton township, and he spent his early life upon the homestead farm. In July, 1887, he settled upon his present place and engaged in general farming. His politics are democratic, and he has held the positions of real estate assessor two terms, treasurer for six years, and supervisor one year. He has been the justice of the peace since 1889, His wife, whom he married June 5, 1887, was Miss Louisa Long, the daughter of Jacob Long, of Paulding township, and an honored resident of that place. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have two winning children, Elmer R. and Herbert A. by name. The family are members of the Payne Lutheran church, in which Mr. Snyder is trustee.

John Stabler. - One of the early settlers of Benton township was John Stabler (deceased), who was born in Germany in 1812. At the age of twelve years he came with his parents to this country, and located in Franklin county, Penn. Here John learned the trade of a shoemaker, and when a young man settled in Ashland county, where he engaged in farming and his trade; in 1857 he came to Benton township, where his son, John M., now lives. He entered 360 acres of land, and was one of the expert hunters of this section. His wife was Elizabeth Wilkerson before her marriage, and the children she bore her husband are: Martha, wife of David Harshman; Mary (deceased), who married Peter Lehman; Susannah, the wife of S. B. Mathers; Rebecca, the wife of J. Kilpatrick; Ephraim M., John M., and three who died in infancy. The death of Mr. Stabler occurred in 1884, and his wife, who still survives him, resides with her son, John M. They were members of the Lutheran church. Ephraim, the eldest son, was born in Ashland county, Ohio, August 31, 1838. He was reared and educated upon the homestead farm, and in 1864 enlisted in company H, One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio volunteer infantry, At the close of the war he located upon his farm, and has been engaged in clearing and improving the same. He married Catherine, the daughter of Jacob Lehman, in 1856, and eleven children were born to them: Samantha, wife of William King; Mary, wife of George Grooms; Rebecca, married John Barnhill; Samuel, Jacob, John, Edward, Susan, Nora, Daisy (deceased), and Jennie. Mr. Stabler is a progressive and energetic citizen who stands well in his community. His brother, John M., was born in 1849, and has always lived in Benton township, where he has been engaged in tilling the soil. He entered the army as a member of company H, One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio volunteer infantry, and served until the expiration of his term of service. He was happily united in marriage to Miss Minnie, the daughter of Albert Croomer, and their children are William, Jennie, Mary, Elizabeth, Samuel, Jonathan, Garthey and John. Politically, Mr. Stabler is a republican and a worthy member of the John Stabler post, No. 179, of Payne.

Emil White (Wiess) was born in Prussia, on February 2, 1846, the son of Philip and Mary (Will) White. Philip, the father of the subject, and his wife, emigrated to this country in 1844 and settled in Sandusky county, Ohio, purchasing forty-six acres of land. At the time of this writing he owns 239 acres in Benton township, ninety of which are well improved. Emil White was reared and instructed in Townsend township, of his adopted county, and spent his early life on the farm. Subsequently he engaged in fishing on the lake and in this occupation he made sufficient to purchase 160 acres of land in Benton township, situated where he now lives. He has cleared this land and placed upon it substantial buildings. He married Miss Louisa, the daughter of Martin Extine, of Erie county, in 1872; and Clara, the wife of Stephen Neifes; Henry, Allie, Lewis, David, Nettie and Harley are the children born to them. Mr. White, who is a democrat, has filled the offices of school director and supervisor. He is a member of the farmers' alliance, and in religious belief he and his family are Lutherans. Ernest White, the fifth son of Philip, dates his birth from 1850. He was raised in Sandusky county and acquired his education there. In 1876 he came to Benton township and bought forty acres of land, which he has improved. October 12, 1876, Miss Dora, the daughter of Frederick Kruger, became his wife and to them have been born Albert, Irwin, Lily and Mary. The family are consistent members of the Lutheran church and Mr. White has been the choice of the democratic party to fill the position of supervisor. Philip White was the sixth son born to Philip and Mary White. He first saw the light in Sandusky county on the the 13th of June, 1853. His learning was obtained in the schools of Townsend township, and he remained upon the homestead farm until February, 1890. At this time he came to Paulding county, located upon his present farm of eighty acres in Benton township, and has improved and cleared the same, His marriage took place in January, 1881, at which time Miss Sophia Kubach, the daughter of August Kubach, of Erie county, became his wife. The children who have been born to them are: Oscar E., Emma C., Ida A., George A.and Clara A. Mr. White is an enterprising young man, fully alive to the interests of his county, and he justly merits the esteem in which he is held. He and his wife, who is a lady of social standing, possess many sterling qualities of mind and heart, and are consistent members of the Lutheran church.

J. A. Woolard was born in Fairview county, Ohio, April 25, 1858, the son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Miller) Woolard, of German and English extraction. Mr. Woolard grew to manhood in his native county upon the farm and received a common school education. April 5, 1882, he married Miss Mary E: Miller and soon after removed to Payne, this county, where he has since resided, being an enterprising and industrious citizen. He affiliates with the democratic party. His family consists of three sons, viz: Dallas D., James A. and Herman B.

David Anspach is a successful agriculturist of Blue Creek township and was born in Perry county, Ohio, December 10, 1857,a son of Absalom and Catherine (Klingler) Anspach. Our subject grew to manhood in his native county and there received a common education. He chose the pursuit of farming as his work and in 1882 located in Paulding county, where he has since resided. He was married April 29, 1879, to Mary C. Foster, the daughter of U. and Elizabeth (Grubb) Foster, and the union resulted in the birth of Elizabeth, Charles, Minnie and Mina, twins, Allen and Frank. Politically, our subject is a democrat, and one of the aggressive politicians of his county. He is amember of the Grange and an honored citizen popular with all who know him best.

John H. Arnold is a native of Ohio, born in Darke county, August 18, 1852, the son of John C. and Mary E. (Sheperd) Arnold, of German parentage. He grew up on the farm and received a common education, early imbibing those characteristics of energy and industry which have so marked his subsequent life. His marriage occurred on the 3rd of August, 1873, at which time Miss Mary J. Crawford became his wife. She was born October 12, 1854, and is the daughter of Jonathan and Mary(Sampson) Crawford of Darke county, Ohio, of German descent. The children born of this union are Laura M., William C., Jennie M., Reuben H., Allen A. (deceased), Pearlen J., Clifton B., Sopha B., and Ella E. Mr. Arnold is one of the stanch republicans of the county, and he and wife are communicants of the Methodist church. Mr. Arnold came to this county in 1887, and as his farm was entirely in the woods when he located it, he was obliged to build a plank house and begin the process of clearing his land. He now has twenty-five acres under cultivation and is well satisfied with his adopted county. i Joseph 0. Barker has been a worthy resident of Paulding county since 1872. His birth occurred in Logan county, Ohio, on the 4th of September, 1844, and he is the son of Stephenson and Mary (Mannon) Barker, of German origin. Reared in his native county, Joseph Barker received a common education and early imbibed the principles of an energetic and progressive citizen. At the age of seventeen years he went to Putnam county and worked for three years. Thence to Miami county, where, for one year, he worked as afarm hand. Returning to Putnam county he was wedded on the 11th of October, 1866, to Miss Mary C., the daughter of Henry and Susan (Dicker) Comer, of Virginia. Their children are William D., Rosa M. (deceased), Lewis, Lottie M.,and Nettie J. (deceased). Mrs. Barker died on the 17th of October, 1878, deeply lamented by all who knew her. Mr. Barker is a progressive man and deservedly receives the respect of his friends and acquaintances. Politically he is an adherent to the principles of the republican party. William J. Basil was born in Auglaize county, Ohio, September 10, 1854. He is the son of John and Eliza (Metz) Basil, of German and English extraction. Mr. Basil was reared to years of maturity in his native county, and early acquired those habits of industry and selfreliance which have enabled him to be a success in his calling. Upon reaching manhood's estate he took a pleasure trip through the states of Iowa, Nevada and California, and on returning home remained there one year, and then went to Iowa for the same length of time. He came to Paulding county at this time, and here married, on January 8, 1879, Miss Sarah, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Troul) Reed. They have three children, whose respective christian names are: Arley, John B. and Edward E. Mr. Basil, who is a democrat in his party faith, has held the offices of township trustee for one term and that of treasurer four terms. He was an efficient officer, and served with satisfaction to the people and credit to himself. During the year 1890 he acted as land appraiser, and was a director of the Paulding county agricultural society. He isa leading citizen of Blue Creek township, and an expert and successful farmer. His friends are legion. Joseph Benson was born in Marion county, Ohio, February 24, 1844 the son of Joseph and Annie (Konce) Benson. The paternal grandparents of Mr. Benson came from Germany and settled in Ohio at an early

Thirty-fourth regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry. He served for three \ years and one month, and received his discharge September 13, 1864. He took part in the following battles: Fayette, Princeton, Lynchburg, where, as member of the mounted infantry, he lost his horse; Chapmanville, Charleston, Cloyd Hill, Salem, Strawberry, Fisher Hill, six days' skirmishing at Harper's Ferry, was under the command of Gen. Sheridan at one time, and was in the engagements of Winchester. At the battle of Princeton he was wounded in theankle. He returned to Auglaize county and on the 10th of September, 1865, married Miss Margaret E. Hellinger, _who was born in Coshocton county November 17, 1849, the daughter of John and Isabelle (Venrick) Hellinger. These children resulted from the Lydia (deceased), Cora, wife of S. Bowers; Rosa EB., Elizabeth Manda (deceased), Francis (deceased), William (deceased), Joseph, Jr., is a democrat, and has held the minor township offices. He moved to Paulding county in 1880, when the surrounding land was covered with forests and roads had not been made. He is a pensioner.

He is a son of Andrew and Mary J. (Venris) Biddle, of German extraction, an4 was educated in the schools of the neighborhood in which he lived. He grew to manhood in Whitley county, Ind., and in 1878 removed to this county, settling upon the farm where he now resides, successfully engaged in tilling the

| soil. He took Miss Rebecca Jackson as his life partner the 22nd of March, 1881, and their children are Addie, Harry C. and Otto Biddle. Mrs. Biddle is a daughter of T. J. Jackson, elsewhere mentioned in this volume. Mr. Biddle is a democrat and was elected in the spring of 1891 to the office of trustee. He is the owner of several fine Norman horses and his farm is one of the best inthe township. He and his family rank high socially in the community in which they reside.

Perry W. Blake. - Among the pioneers of Paulding county is Perry W. Blake, who was born in the county of Gallia on the 29th of September 1832, the son of John C. and Nancy (Guy) Blake, of English and Scotch origin. Mr. Blake lived in Mercer county for many years and was there educated. He learned the trade of the carpenter with his father, who followed that occupation. In 1874 he located in Paulding county and has become one of its leading citizens. He has experienced all the hardships of pioneer life, and he tells of the gloom and discouragement that overcame him shortly after viewing his dismal surroundings. He was united in marriage with Miss Amanda M. Cummings, of Gallia county, September 14, 1854, and their children were named James H., Byron B. (deceased), and Myrtle A. (deceased.) Mrs. Blake was born May 8, 1832, and is a daughter of James and Mary (Watkins) Cummins. Mr. Blake is a democrat in his political belief and acted as trustee for one year. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. lodge at Paulding. The family are worthy members of the Christian church, in which they enjoy high standing.

Samuel Blank is a worthy citizen of Blue Creek township, and located in this county in 1884, where he is engaged in tilling the soil. He is the son of Jacob and Sarah (Justice) Blank, and dates his birth from the 13th of August, 1853. He is of German-Irish extraction, and grew to years of maturity in his native county, where he early chose the life of a farmer. He was married, on the 19th of January, 1882, to Sophronia, the daughter of Bonaparte and Samantha Lindsley, of French extraction. She bore her husband a family of five children, named Verla, Cecil, May, Bonaparte and Carolina. Mr. Blank, who is one of the representative men of this township, is a democrat in his political belief, and belongs to the lodge of Red Men, at Scott, Ohio.

Thomas Coil was born in Mercer county, Ohio, January 16, 1830, the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Foster) Coil, of English origin. Being reared to manhood in his native county, he began at the age of nineteen years to do business for himself, and located in Paulding county in 1871, when he settled upon a farm and engaged in cultivating it. In 1850 Mr. Coil married Miss Emma J., the daughter of James Heath, and this union resulted in the birth of three children, named James, Andrew and an infant (deceased). Mrs. Coil departed this life in 1855, and in 1857 Mr. Coil took as his second wife Miss Allie, a daughter of James Wright. Mrs. Coil became the mother of two bright children, whose christian names are George W. and Emma J., the wife of L. Younger. In 1870 the death of Mrs. Coil occurred, and in October, 1872, Mrs. Mary Thorpe, the daughter of Alexandria Younger, became the wife of our subject. The family are earnest members of the Brethren church. Both as a farmer and as a citizen Mr. Coil is acknowledged as a leader, and his friends and well wishers are many.

John Crissman, one of the enterprising young men of Blue Creek township, was born in Shelby county, Ohio, November 10, 1857, the son of Jacob and Louisa (Gigher) Crissman, of German ancestry. Mr. Crissman grew to manhood on the farm in his native county and here received a common education. He early chose farming as his life work, and in 1885 located in Paulding county, where he has since been engaged in tilling the soil. His marriage took place on the 16th of October, 1877, at which time Miss Melissa D. Latimore, the daughter of David and Elizabeth (Arbogast) Latimore became his wife. Their children are, Cornelius E., Clarence C. and Earnest R. The family are earnest members of the United Brethren church and rank well in the social scale of the township. Mr. Crissman votes the republican ticket and is an ardent supporter of his party.

Nathan Culpher was born in Preble county, Ohio, May 9, 1828, the son of Moses B. and Amelia (Brown) Culpher. He was one of twelve children born to these parents and was reared to manhood in Randolph county, Ind. His marriage occurred in Wayne county on the 9th of November. 1848, at which time Elizabeth, daughter of Nathan and Susan (Scott) Jones, of Green county, N. C., became his wife. Seven children were born to them, named: Susanna, wife of Benjamin Wilkins; Moses M., a minister in Mansville, Ohio; Amelia A. (deceased); Daniel J. (deceased); John W., Ephraim A, and Allen L. (deceased). Mr. Culpher, who is a republican, located in Paulding county in 1853 and has held some of the minor township offices. There were but ten voters in the township when he came toit. Mr.Culpher is a dealer in fine cattle and he is a good citizen in all the walks of life. W. P. Culpher, brother of the above mentioned, located in this county in 1887. He is a native of Randolph county, Ind., and was born May 15, 1840. His father was born the slave of James R. Brown, and he and his wife were brought from Africa and compelled to serve in the Revolutionary struggle. Our subject grew to manhood in his native county and there learned the blacksmith's trade. He was united in marriage October 10, 1870, with Miss Margaret A. Saine, a native of North Carolina, and the daughter of Peter and Margaret Saine. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Culpher were named: John (deceased), Sarah A., Thomas E. (deceased), Henry E. (deceased), Ephraim (deceased), Charles (deceased), William, Adeline, Minnie, Emma, Nathan, Susan and Stanley. Mr. Culpher adheres to the principles of the republican party and his whole career has been marked by enterprise and industry.

Hugh Downing, a prosperous farmer of Blue Creek township, is a native of Carroll county, Ohio, and was born August 25, 1844, the second son of James and Sarah (Cameron) Downing, natives of Ohio, of Welsh and English extraction. Hugh Downing, the grandparent, was a native of Pennsylvania, liveda farmer's life and was a pioneer settler of Carroll county. James Downing was reared as a farmer, which pursuit he followe 1 for atime. Later he dealt extensively in stock and then in lumber, removing in 1881 to Paulding county, where he erected a first-class saw mill west of Scott. He had 400 acres of timber, which he shipped to various markets and the mill was operated for four years. In 1885 Mr. Downing abandoned lumbering and has since been actively and successfully engaged in farming, being the possessor of a 160-acre farm. He is a hale and hearty old gentleman, active and energetic, though he has passed the time allotted to man and is now seventy-four years of age. He was the father of ten children, two sons and three daughters of whom stillsurvive. His eldest son, whilea member of company H, Sixtysixth Illinois volunteer infantry, was killed in Georgia, during a skirmish, Hugh Downing was reared on the farm and educated in the neighboring schools. From his eight until his fifteenth years he was a resident of Tuscarawas county, and in 1861 he came to Harding county, where he enlisted in 1864 in company E, One-hundred and seventy-six Ohio volunteer infantry, serving until the close of the war. He answered the roll call each day during his service and received his honorable discharge June 22, 1865. Returning to Harding county he in connection with his father followed lumbering until after coming to Paulding couaty. He was the owner of 200 acres of property, which he farmed in connection with his lumber business, and in 1881 removed to Paulding county where he has since resided, an honored resident of Blue Creek township. He is an ardent republican, and an active worker in the ranks of his party. He was happily married March 27, 1875, to Miss Ardella, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Hodge) Arnold of German and Irishextraction. Mrs, Downing was born in 1857, and has borne her husband three children, Harry (deceased), James A. G., Lura Belle; she is a member of the M. E. church and an estimable lady.

Almon Dunham, proprietor of the pail stave factory of Blue Creek township, was born August 22, 1856, in Woodville township, Sandusky county, Ohio, the son of Davis and Louisa Dunham, natives of the " Buckeye State." The father was a farmer by occupation, and raised a family of six sons and two daughters. In 1873, on the 3rd of April, Mr. Dunham died at the early age of forty years. His widow survives him, and resides on the homestead farm. Almon Dunham grew to manhood on the farm, and attended the schools of the neighborhood. He was the eldest of the family, and after the death of his father stayed with his mother until twenty-one years of age, then started out in life for himself. He farmed for a while, and in connection with his brother, William, did threshing for several seasons. On December 9, 1882, he came to this county and settled apon a farm in section 9 of Blue Creek township, where he owns eighty acres of well cultivated land. Mr. Dunham established his factory in 1884, and he has been successful in his venture. He also operates a saw mill in company with his brother, and this business has proven a profitable enterprise. The marketing is carried on principally at Erie, Penn., where he finds a ready sale for his goods. Mr. Dunham is ever to be found with the enterprising and charitable movements of the township, and since his coming here has rapidly risen to the front rank of business men. He was united in marriage with Miss Aurelia Jones, on the 10th of February, 1878, and the christian names of their children are: Lulu, Cora, Lavena, Sopha May and Walter H. Mrs. Dunham was born in Sandusky county, November 10, 1858, and is the daughter of Josiah and Catherine (Moury) Jones, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania. She is a lady of culture, widely known in the community where she resides. Mr. Dunham's politics are democratic, and he is an esteemed citizen in all the walks of life.

Daniel H. Dunlap, a farmer, and a director in the county infirmary, was born in Delaware county, Ohio, January 26, 1861, one of eight children - five sons and three daughters, the offspring of James and Sarah (Coles) Dunlap, natives respectively of Ohio and New York. William Dunlap, the paternal grandfather, was a native of Ireland, and one of thirty sons, born to his father in three marriages. He left home at the age of twelve years, and came to America, where he followed farming and became well-to-do. He was an early settler of Ohio, and married there, becoming the father of two sons and one daughter. His death occurred in 1861, after a long life of activity and usefulness. He was a Mason in high standing, and a democrat in his political belief. James Dunlap, his son, and the father of our subject, was born and reared in Delaware county. He followed farming all his life with the exception of seven years, which he spent in the town of Delaware as the proprietor of a meat market. He served in the minor offices of the township, and belonged to the I. O. O. F., in which lodge he had filled most of the chairs. He died in 1879, leaving a widow and five children. Mrs. Dunlap removed to Paulding county in 1883, and is making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Joshua Smith. She is a devout member of the Baptist church. Daniel Dunlap, the subject of this mention, was educated in the common schools, and at the age of eighteen years began work upon the farm. In 1880 he purchased eighty acres of land in Blue Creek township, but was not entirely successful in this venture. He worked hard and saved enough money to make a home for himself, and is now the possessor of a good farm on the Van Wert Pike. Mr. Dunlap is a stanch republican, and takes great interest in the welfare of his party. He was married October 28, 1880, to Miss Minerva C. Harris, born in Delaware county in June, 1861, the daughter of G. W. Harris. They have had three children: Clyde L., Ada and Clarence W., who died at the age of five months. Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap are members of the Baptist church, and highly respected in the community where they reside.

Charles M. Elliott was born in Defiance county, Ohio, on the last day of July, 1854, the son of Moses and Elizabeth (Morehead) Elliott. He remained in Defiance county until the age of thirteen years and went to the counties of Coshocton and Holmes, where he received a common education. At the age of eighteen years he removed to Allen county, Ind., where he engaged in farm labor. In 1879 he located in this county and upon his cultivated farm has some fine cattle. He erected, in 1881, a saw mill, which he operates in connection with his farm. His marriage occurred on the 1st of February, 1876, in Adams county, at which time Miss Julia A. Krick became his wife. She is the daughter of Jacob and Julia (Beaverhammer) Krick and was born in Adams county, March 25, 1852. By her marriage she has become the mother of Llewellyn and Annie A. Elliott. Politically, Mr. Elliott is a democrat and a man who inspires the esteem and confidence of a host of friends.

Jasper Evans was born in Franklin county, Ohio, August 26, 1861. His parents are Alexandria and Ellen (Gordon) Evans, of Welsh and Irish birth respectively. Our subject was educated in the common schools and grew to maturity on the homestead farm in his native county. In 1882 he removed to Hardin county and married there on the 10th of October, 1883, Miss B. Dawson, who was born August 6, 1863. The christian names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Evans are Earl Floyd, Harry D. F. and Don Lincoln. Since 1884 Mr. Evans has been an active and energetic citizen of this county and is highly honored and respected wherever known. He is an ardent supporter of the principles of the republican party.

Andrew Follmer. - For nineteen years Andrew Follmer has been one of the representative citizens of Blue Creek township. He was born in Baden, Germany, August 3, 1826, the son of Frederick and Christina (Miller) Follmer, both of whom are now deceased. In 1852 our subject came to this country and located in New York city, going thence to Marion county, Ohio. Here he engaged as a farm laborer, and has since been actively engaged in tilling the soil. He was married on the 17th of January, 1854, to Miss Sarah L. Miller, of German parentage, and six children have been born to them, namely: Michael, Christina (deceased), Christina, the wife of William Harner; Jacob F., Catherine (deceased), and Magdalene, the wife of Charles Haines. Politically, Mr. Follmer is a democrat, and though not an office seeker in any sense of the word, is an active worker for his party. He is generally esteemed by all who known him.

William Galloway is a native of the " Buckeye state," and was born in Shelby county, March 24, 1854, a son of Henry and Sarah (Redman) Galloway, the former of Maryland, and the latter a native of Ohio. Mr. Galloway, our subject, was the youngest of eight children born to these parents, and grew to manhood in his native county. He enlisted in the regular United States army on May 20, 1878, as a member of Company G, Twenty-fifth regiment of infantry, and was discharged on the 19th of May, 1883, having served a term of five years. Mr. Galloway located in Paulding county in 1883, and on the 12th of July, 1884, was wedded to Miss Martha, the daughter of Arthur and Mary J. (Holly) Mines, of In- diana and Ohio respectively. Their children are Charles A., Frederick D., Henry A, and Irene. Politically, Mr. Galloway is a republican, and he is esteemed in all the relations of life.

John Gearhart is one of the enterprising young men of Blue Creek townsbip, and was born in Defiance county, October 3, 1857, the son of John and Mary (Hottle) Gearhart, of German parentage. Mr. Gearhart was the fourth in order of birth of six children born to these parents, and his education was received in the neighboring schools. He located in this county in 1888, and has since been one of its progressive citizens. His marriage occurred on the 24th of November, 1881, when Miss Mary Wells became his wife. She was born in Defiance county, September 29, 1860, the daughter of Henry and Jennie (Coleman) Wells. The issue of this union was one daughter, named Lilah Gearhart. In politics Mr. Gearhart is a believer in the doctrines of the democratic party, of which organization he is an ardent supporter.

Hiram Gebhart. - Since 1882, Hiram Gebhart has been an influential citizen of the township in which he lives. He has been justice of the peace since 1883, and acted as deputy sheriff of Butler county, Ohio, under Robert Andrews for two years. Mr. Gebhart is a son of Daniel and Christina (Lingle) Gebhart, of German lineage, and he was born September 3, 1825, in Butler county, Ohio. He grew to years of maturity in Madison county, and was given a commonschooling. Farming has been his life work, and in this calling he has been successful. He was married in Montgomery county, August 3, 1851, to Miss Nancy Emrick, and their happy union has been blessed by the birth of William H., Susanna, now Mrs. John M. Jackson; Sarah, Edwin C.and Samuel. The farm which Mr. Gebhart owns is a well cultivated piece of property upon which buildings of a substantial order have been erected. He is a leading citizen and an expert and successful agriculturist.

E. Harlan was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, October 24th, 1850, the son of Elwood and Rebecca (Rudisal) Harlan. He grew to manhood in his native county and began life for himself at the age of twenty-one

Mrs. Harlan departed this life in September, 1873, leaving one child, Maggie C. by name (who is now the wife of F. P. Davis). Mr. Harlan then removed to Dekalb county, Ind., where he was again united in marriage on the 30th day of _ December, 1875, with Miss Mary E., the daughter of Daniel and Margaret

(Osborn) Hoffman. He then engaged in saw-milling in Dekalb and Steuben counties, Ind., following this occupation for six years; at this time he removed to Paulding county, Ohio, and erected a mill on the land known as Halsey land. This mill he operated for eight years patronage is large and lucrative. Mr. and Mrs. Harlan are the parents of two bright children, William D.: and Lottie A. by name. Mr. Harlan is one among the leading republicans in his township, and by his life of in his native state. His father was a boatman, running from Lynchburg to Richmond, Va.. and the subject of this notice assisted him on the boat. Our subject removed from Virginia to Pike county, Ohio, and here married, January 2, 1855, Miss Mary Ball, who was a native of Virginia. Mr. Harris followed farming until February, 1864, at which time he enlisted in company G, Twenty-seventh Ohio volunteer infantry, and saw active service until the close of the war. He received his honorable discharge at Smithville, N. C., on the 21st day of September, 1865. Re-

Paulding county, where he located in Blue Creek township. He now owns 200 acres of good property as the result of his hard work, and the land is well improved. Politically, Mr. Harris is a stanch supporter of the republican party, and has held some of the minor offices of the township. He is the father of Samantha, Victoria, Thomas, William E.,

, John B. Homer, a representative farmer of Blue Creek township, was born in Seneca county, Ohio, October 4, 1860, the son of Peter and Margaret (Culp) Homer, natives of Germany, who emigrated to America in 1845 and located in Seneca county. He was the youngest born of six leaving school he began life for himself a tiller of the soil. For nineteen years he operated a saw mill with good success. In 1883 he located in Paulding county and three years later went to Jay county, Ind. In 1886 he returned to this county and has since resided there. Mr. Homer is a democrat, although he is not actively engaged in the politics of his party. He was married in Logan county, Ohio, September 11, 1870, to Miss Lillie B. Bliss, a native of Wyandot county, born in October, 1855. She became the mother of seven children, as follows: Howard H., Bertha (deceased), Frank B., Nellie B., Edward, William T. and James C. Mr. Homer is not only an enterprising business man and thus a useful member of the community, but he is a good citizen in every sense of the word.

Justus W. Huffman is a native of Ohio, born in Shelby county, June 7, 1854, the son of Amos and Mary (Woodruff) Huffman. He is the only surviving child of a family of three and his mother died when he was but six years of age. He was left to the care of his aunt, Lydia Huffman, and she proved a mother to him. On the 25th of March, 1875, Mr. Huffman was joined in wedlock to Miss Margaret, the daughter of David and Elizabeth (Arbogast) Latimore, of German and Irish extraction. The offspring of this union was seven children, named Lizzie M., Hattie M., Arty G., Jessie C. (deceased), Lillian, Merrill and Tacy. Politically, Mr. Huffman is a republican and one of the representative young men of the county. He located upon the farm where he now lives in 1887. He and wife are members of the United Brethren church. The father of our subject served for eight months in the late war, and, returning home, died of injuries received while in the army.

Joha M. Jackson, who is the possessor of some of the finest short-horn cattle in the county, is a native of Ohio, and was born in Gallia county, May 17, 1859, the son of T. J. Jackson elsewhere mentioned in this volume. Mr. Jackson is one of the enterprising young men of the county and has held the position of constable for one term. Miss Susan A, Gebhart became his wife on the 15th of April, 1883; she is the daughter of Hiram Gebhart and was born in Butler county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs, Jackson are the parents of three children: Ira, Bertie and Roy Jackson. Besides his cattle, Mr. Jackson has a quantity of fancy poultry and Poland China hogs in which he takes pride. Altogether Mr. Jackson deserves rank as one of the representative and model farmers of Blue Creek township.

T. J. Jackson, a substantial agriculturist of Blue Creek township, was born in Carroll county, May 6, 1836, the son of John and Rebecca (Stewart) Jackson, The maternal grandfather of Mr. Jackson was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was killed at Fort Meigs. John Jackson, our subject's father, wasa participant in the late war and acted as-wagon master. Afterward he was promoted to the rank of commissary sergeant. At the age of fourteen years, T. J. Jackson removed with his parents to Gallia county where he remained uutil 1873, when he came to Paulding county end located where his present home now stands. served during the war for a short period, and upon his return home began farming. Mr. Jackson is a republican and cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln. He held the office of constable for two and a half years and served in this position with satisfaction to all concerned. His marriage occurred August 12, 1858, in Gallia county, at which time Miss Elizabeth, the daughter of Abraham and Mary (DeMerric) Dupre, of Franca, became his wife. The parents of Mrs. Jackson came to this country in 1817 and located in Ross county, later making Gallia county their home until their deaths. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, named John M., Rebecca, wife of H. H. Biddle; George W. (deceased), Jurietta A., wife of C. E. Gebhart; Emma L., wife of F. W. McMichael; Rufus D. and Arthur H. Jackson. The family are earnest members of the Christian church, and fraternally Mr. Jackson belongs to the Masonic lodge of Paulding. He is a lover of fine horses and has some of them on his farm.

Joshua Lee was born in Harlan county, Ky., and is a brother of Elihu Lee. He came to Paulding county, Ohio, in 1887, and located upon his farm in Blue Creek township, where he has been successfully engaged in farming. This occupation he chose as his life work, and after obtaining a common education he started out in life with but little. He was married in Lee county, Va., on the 22nd of July, 1867, to Miss Susan, the daughter of Joseph and Catherine Watkins, natives of Kentucky. Seven children blessed this union, namely: Joseph B., Stephen L., Miami C., James, John, William and Margaret E. The family are members of the United Brethren church, in which they enjoy good standing. Mr. Lee is one of the active republicans in his township, and has held the minor township offices. He isa man universally respected by all with whom he comes in contact, and he has many friends.

Alexander Lehman is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Cumberland county April 21,1844. He grew to manhood in Allen county, Ohio, and there received his educational training. He was happily married in his native county, on the 7th of September, 1869, to Elizabeth J. Yarletts, a daughter of John Yarletts, and to them have been born: William Edward on June 4, 1870; John A., Ida M. (deceased), Cora B., Myrtle R., Frank O., Alice M., David E. (deceased), and Alfred C. Mrs. Lehman was born, in Dauphin county, Penn., on August 3, 1849. Mr. Lehman located in Paulding county in 1885, and upon his pleasant farm, which is well cultivated, he has many fine horses. He is a stanch democrat, and with his family belongs to the Lutheran church. He enlisted in company K, Fifty-fourth regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry, on the 28th of January, 1864, and served until August, 1865. On account of disabilities received while in the service, he draws ja pension. Mr. Lehman is highly respected in the community in which he lives, and has many friends who wish him well.

William Lehman is a native of Cumberland county, Penn., and first saw the light October 1, 1850, the son of David and Margaret (Bookwalter) Lehman, of German extraction. Mr. Lehman obtained a common education in his boyhood, and grew to years of maturity in Allen county on the homestead farm. April 17, 1876, his marriage with Miss Lucretia Logan was solemnized, and their children are: Maud G., Daniel E., Margaret, Rolly E. and Lucretia (deceased). Mrs. Lehman was born in Allen county, Ohio, October 11, 1858, and she departed this life on the 16th of July, 1885. Mr. Lehman located in this county in 1882 and is a progressive and energetic citizen. Politically he isa democrat and a member of the Patrons of Husbandry.

Charles Marquardt was born in Prussia, May 17, 1840, and is a son of Godfrey and Charlotte (Sabel) Marquardt. He grew to manhood in his native land and was engaged for a period of two years in the religious war of Denmark. He was a soldier in the war between Austria and Prussia and served his country with loyalty. Coming to America in 1867, he located in Ottawa county, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. He brought with him to this country 81,000, which he had earned in his native land. He was married in Ottawa county, on May 15, 1868, to Miss Anna Schavlin, a native of Germany, born in (849. She is a daughter of John and Elizabeth Schavlin. In 1868 Mr. and Mrs. Marquardt removed to Paulding county and located upon the farm where they now reside. They stand high in the community and are among its valued citizens. The children born to them are: John C., Amelia, wife of A. Parrott; Catherine E., Frederica, Emma, Amil, Anna A. and Melinda. Mr. Marquardt is an aggressive democrat and, with his family, attends the Lutheran church, Upon his farm, which is well cultivated, he raised many fine sheep which are noted throughout the township.

Cyrus A. Marshall is a leading citizen of Blue Creek township, Paulding county. He isa native of Meigs county, and dates his birth from the 26th day of January, 1855. His parents are J. H. and Nancy (Steel) Marshall, of German and Irish extraction, who reared their son to manhood in Allen county. Here he received his education and followed the occupation of a farmer. On the 22d of February, 1878, he led Miss Emma Young to the altar, and their children are Mearl and Péarl (twins), and Viva. Mrs. Marshall is a daughter of Freeman and Charity (Roberts) Young, of English parentage, and she is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Marshall is one of the stanch supporters of the republican party and a good citizen. He located in this county in 1885, and has made many friends since residing here who wish him well.

John H. Parrott, who located in this county in 1882, was born in Mercer county, November 10, 1840, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Coil) Parrott. He is the youngest of seven children, his brother Andrew being the first white child born in Mercer county. Mr. Parrott attained the years of maturity in his native county and there married, in April, 1861, Miss Charlotte, the daughter of Levi and Maria (Comickle) Randbaugh. Mr. Parrott is the father of Ella, the wife of Henry Leisor; Emma, Oscar, Alfred and Etta, now Mrs. Allen Wynans. During the late war Mr. Parrot was a private in the militia of Mercer county for five years. He was discharged September 2, 1864, after months of faithful service. He has always been a farmer and in his calling has met with success. He is a republican in his political belief, and has acted as justice of the peace for three years, and trustee for one year. He is a member of the Grange and a prominent and influential citizen in his community.

Thomas W. Poorman, merchant, postmaster and agriculturist, of Blue Creek township, was born in Morrow county, Ohio, April 4, 1854, the son of A. J. and Sarah (Daily) Poorman, natives, respectively of

Pennsylvania and Ohio. Christopher Poorman, the paternal grandfather, became a resident of Paulding county in early life and here he passed his remaining years. Andrew J. Poorman, the father of our subject, located in Morrow county, where he married in 1850 and lived for six years. He then settled in Blue Creek township, this county, and was prominent among the pioneer settlers. He reared a family of ten children to years of maturity. Mr. Poorman now resides on a farm near Bourbon, Marshall county, Ind. His wife died in 1888,a devoted member of the United Brethren church, of which organization he is also a member. Thomas W. Poorman was but two years of age when brought to this county. He received a good education and taught for eight consecutive winters. In 1882 he embarked in merchandising and handles a general stock of goods. He is in the enjoyment of a lucrative trade and is one of the energetic and self-made men of the county. He also owns 189 acres of land, which is fairly well improved. Mr. Poorman is a republican in his political belief and in 1882 was appointed postmaster, which position he now occupies, and the duties of which-he is discharging to the satisfaction of all concerned. On January 15, 1882, Miss Marilla Mahin, of Auglaize county, became the wife of Mr. Poorman. She is the daughter of Henry and Annie Mahin, and by her marriage is the mother of two bright children, Guy and Clifford.