Columbus City (part 13 of 57)

IMr. Packard', the subject proper of this brief sketch, spent his boyhood days in Maine, where he acquired a good common-school education, and later he pursued his studies in the home academy at Kent's Hill. After leaving school he was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, and on the completion of his term of service he came to Ohio, locating first in Delaware, Delaware county, where he followed carpentering until a change of employment found him in the service of the Big Four Railroad Company, by which he was appointed foreman of the bridge-building department, having in charge the construction of bridges and depots, also superintending repairs along the line. On severing his connection wath the railroad service he went to Tennessee, where he had charge of a corps of men in bridge construction. In 1883 he came to Columbus, where he has since resided and where he has been actively engaged in handling real estate and in building residences and business blocks, among w'hich may be mentioned Orton Hall. He is the owner of considerable valuable property in this city, and his business affairs are annually augmenting his income.

In 1863 Mr. Packard was, united in marriage w^ith Miss Miranda Black, of Delaware county, Ohio, and a daughter of John Black. She was born in Indiana and when about ten years of age her parents died and she returned to Delaware county. Mr. Packard has two children, - Frank L. and Cora. The son is a skilled architect, and has drafted the plans of many of the finest business buildings and residences in the capital city. The daughter is now the wife of H. L. Rownd, who is in the enuploy of the Republic Steel & Iron Company, of Chicago, and is a son of Robert Rownd, a capitalist of Columbus.

In his political views Mr. Packard has been a stalwart Republican ever since casting his first presidential vote for John C. Fremont. He has served for two terms as a county commissioner of Delaware county and for one term as a member of the city council of Delaware. Local advancement and public progress are both dear to his heart, and he withholds his support from no movement or measure calculated to prove of general good.

James Lindsey

If a good name is valuable to a man during his lifetime, it is doubly valuable to his family after he has passed away. Those who looked to the late James Lindsey, of Hamilton township, Franklin county, for support and protection during his active years hare a right to be proud of the excellent reputation which he achieved and they regard it as their most priceless heritage.

James Lindsey was born in Columbus. Ohio, Jul}- 19, 182 1. and died at his home on section 22, Hamilton township. June 25, 1885. He, was the third in order of birth of the three sons and three daughters of James and Mary (Barr) Lindsey, and his parents were of high social standing and prominent in the Presbyterian church. His father was a man of wealth, a banker and a stockholder in various prominent enterprises at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where he was born, reared and entered upon his active career. He came, a single man, to Franklin county, Ohio, and there married Mary Barr, daughter of John Barr, an early settler there. Their son, James Lindsey, was educated in the common schools and reared to farm work, but he demonstrated that he possessed unusual business ability and interested himself in stock raising to such an extent that he became known in New Yiork and Boston, where he often went in the interests of his business, as in Franklin county. In association with Dr. Clark, he in one year disposed of one hundred thousand dollars' worth of fine cattle. He carried on farmng on the same extensive scale, as will be apparent when it is stated that he at one time marketed fifteen thousand bushels of corn. With his home farm of three hundred acres he farmed also a tract of four hundred acres on the river, making an aggregate of seven hundred acres.

Mr. Lindsey was in every sense of the word a self-made man, for he was only twelve years old when his father died and was obliged to begin the battle of life at that tender age. He was reared a Presbyterian, but in time became a Methodist, in which faith he died. Previous to 1856 he was a Whig, but in that year he became one of the original members of the Republican party and voted for John C. Fremont, its first nominee for the presidency. Four years later he voted for Abraham Lincoln, and he voted for every subsequent Republican presidential nominee until his death. In recognition of his splendid business ability he was frequently importuned to devote it to public interests, but he was too busy with his private affairs to entertain such a proposition and persistently refused to be a candidate for any office. At the same time he was an active wo'rker for the success of his party, and was often influential in placnig his friends in offices they desired. ' He was among the largest employers of labor in Firanklin county in his time, and was liberal and helpful to all who served him faithfully. As an Odd Fellow he was well known.

Ann Elizabeth (Wright) Lindsey, widow of James Lindsey, was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1823, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Watt) Wright. Her father was born near Baltimore, Maryland, and was educated in the schools near his childhood home. His parents died when he was very young, and he went to Pennsylvania, and w^as married at Strasburg, Lancaster county, that state, where he became a farmer and the owner of two hundred acres of valuable Pennsylvania land: There Thomas and Elizabeth (Watt) Wright had seven children. They came to Ohio in 183 1 and settled in Hamilton township, Franklin county, where the youngest child was born. Their children, mentioned in the order of birth, were as follows : John, of Logan county, Ohio, now deceased ; Martha, also deceased; Charlotte, who is now Mrs. Lockard Ramsey; Mrs. Lindsey; Margaret, who married Philo Watkins and is now deceased; Isabelle S., who married William Riley; and Mary, who is the widow of Gibson Barr, and lives in Franklin township, Franklin county. Mrs. Linclsey, who was the third daughter and fourth child of her parents, was seven years of age when they brought her to Franklin county, where she and Mr. Lindsey attended the same schools and were in the same classes. They were married August 29, 1844, by the Rev. Josiah Smith, founder of the Westminster church of Columbus, Ohio, and about one hundred guests attended their wedding.

Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Airs. Lindsey settled "on their farm on section 22, in Hamilton township, where she has lived for fifty-seven years. Six children were born to them, two of whom died in infancy. The others were named as follows, in the order of their nativity : Ellen is the wadow of Dr. G. S. Stein, and she and her daughter Gertrude are members of Mrs. Lindsey's household. Frank has the active management of the home farm. Thomas is now deceased. Lucien is a lawyer. Mrs. Lindsey is a remarkably well-preserved woman for her years, and is a business woman of unusual ability. She was in early life a Presbyterian, but is now a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. She is a woman of much culture and has traveled much throughout the United States, having accompanied her late husband on many of his business trips through the east and on numerous journeys for pleasure and recreation to different parts of the country.

Among the younger representatives of the medical fraternity in Columbus is Dr. W. Dallas Hoyer, yet his years seem no bar to his advancement, for he is already enjoying a large practice and his patronage is steadily increasing. He is a native of Holmes county, Ohio, his birth having occurred at Millersburg. His father, W. E. Hoyer, was for many years a successful educator, acting as the principal of several schools of Holmes county. He married Miss Amanda F. Harris, a native of Ohio-, reared and educated in Holmes county, where she gave her hand in marriage to Professor Hoyer. The Hoyers are of Holland lineage, the ancestors of the family in America having come directly to this country from the land of dikes. The paternal grandfather of our subject, B. E. Hoyer, became one of the pioneer settlers of Holmes county, Ohio.

The Doctor acquired a good common-school education in his early youth and in 1890 became a student in the Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, and later he determined to make the practice of medicine his life work. His preliminary reading was supplemented in 1894 by a course in the Ohio Medical University, in which he w^as graduated in 1900. After his graduation he began practice in Columbus and is now well established in his profession. He is the district physician of the thirteenth and fourteenth wards and is a young man of ability, whose knowledge of medicine is comprehensive and whose skill is indicated by the successful results which attend his efforts. In 1897 the Doctor was united in marriage to Miss Helen Monroe, of this city, a daugiiter of Peter and Magdalena (Schnider) Monroe. They have a acquaintance among the best people of Columbus and are cordially welcomed to their liomes.

Thomas N. Gregory

Thomas N. Gregory, a well-to-do and prominent farmer of Franklin county, was born at Centerburg, Knox county, Ohio, on the i6th of July, 1857. His father, Charles P. Gregory, was born in Berkshire township. Delaware county, Ohio, August 28, 1828, and is descended from old New England familiiss that through long years were connected with the development of that section of the country, for early representatives of both the paternal and maternal ancestry had come to this country prior to the Revolutionary war. The paternal great-grandparents of our subject were Nathaniel and Hannah Gregory, who resided in the vicinity of Hartford, Connecticut. There in 1807 occurred the birth of their son, William Gregory, the grandfather of our subject, who was reared in that locality and there married Sophronia Hitchcock, the tenth and youngest daughter of Benjamin and Mary (Johnson) Hitchcock. The former wasf a son of Samuel Hitchcock, and it was Samuel Hitchcock or his father who came to this country in the ]\Iayfiower and thus planted the family on American soil.

Members of both families have been prominently connected with events that have aided in shaping the history of the nation. Benjamin Hitchcock (entered the American army at the time of the war for independence and served for seven years. When he went before \Vashington to be examined, the General asiked him his age. The young man replied that he could not lie about it, that he was oiily seventeen. Washi-ngton looked at him and smiled and then said : '*We will take you, for I see you have outgrowm your pantaloons." He was tall, angular and awkward and wore homespun clothes, but he made a good soldier and for seven years aided in the struggle for independence. Twice he was made a prisioiier of war, but on gaining his freedom again entered the army. Some of his brothers became famous ir letters and science and he had two sons who won fame. The family is a distinguished one and numbers many prominent men. Mrs. Sophronia (Hitchcock) Gregory was: the daughter of Mrs. Benjamin Hitchcock, whose maiden name was Piatt, and thus the father of our subject, Charles Piatt Gregory, is a grandnephew of Senator Piatt, of Connecticut, and bears the family name. He is also a second cousin of Grover Cleveland, and is related to the prominent Trowbrid'ge family of New Haven, Connecticut. His aunt Patty became the wife of a son of Elbridge Gerry, one of the signers of the Declaration! of Independence.

As before stated. \A^illiam Gregory married Sophronia Hitchcock, who born in Bethleh-em. Litchfield county, Connecticut, in 1809, and was married at the age of eighteen years. The "blue laws" of Connecticut were in force during her girlhood. Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Gregory came to Ohio, making the journey in a wagon across the country and taking up their residence in Berkshire township, Delaware county. Other m'smbers of the family, on both sides', soon afterward came to the Buckeye state. The grandfather developed a farm and continued to carry on agricultural pursuits until his death. He passed away in 1841, leaving three children. Charles P., Mary and Elvira. The mother afterward married again and had a daughter, Mrs. Martha Wintermute, who is living near Newark, Ohio. Mrs. Gregory died when about eighty-one years of age.

Charlesi Piatt Gregory was about six years of age when his parents sold their farm in Delaware county and removed to Licking county, where a settlement was mad'e in the midst of the green forest, the grandfather there developing a farm, upon which the family remained for eleven years. That place was then sold and they removed to the town of Granville, where William Gregory died in February, 1841, after which the widow and her children returned to Berkshire, Delaware county, where Charles P. Gregory was bound out to learn the harness-rnaker's trade. When his term of apprenticeship was: completed he removed to Knox county, Ohio, and was employed by a harness-maker in Centerburg. While there he formed the acquaintance of Rebecca Williams and they were married. The lady was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, and when about nine vears of age accompanied her parents on their removal to Knox county, Ohio. She was a daughter of Thomas, and Hannah (Black) Williams, the latter a member of the wellknown Black family of the Keystone state. Charles P. Gregory and Rebecca Williams were married about 1850, and began their domestic hfe in Centerburg, where he followed the wagon-making trade, also the business of making gims, until the great war of 1861-5. He enlisted in a company made up at Centerburg and engaged in the military service of his country till the close of that struggle. Returning from the war, he removed to Mount Vernon, where he was employed at the C. & G. Cooper machine shop, where he still continues;.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gregory were born three children : Sophia, who was born May 15, 1853, and died on the 3d of August of that year; William, who was born September 21, 1854, and married Lydia Berkholder, their home being now in Mount Vernon, Ohio; and Thomas N., of this review. The mother passed away at Mount Vernon, July 14, 1890, her remains being interred at Richill, but the father is still living.

In taking up the personal history of Thomasi N. Gregory we present the life record of one who has a wide acquaintance and is well known as a representative agriculturist of Franklin county. He remained in Centerburg luitil five years of age and began his education there. The familv then removed to Mt. Vernon, Knox county, where he attended the public schools until sixteen years of age. On the expiration of that period he began work as a brakeman on the Cleveland, Mount Vernon & Columl)us Railroad, following that pursuit until 1878. After his marriage he took up his abode in ]\Iount Vernon, where he continued for a year. In 1878 he located upon his present farm, comprising one hundred and fifteen acres. For twelve years he followed railroading. He acted as fireman on the road mentioned for three years and was yard master at Mount Vernon for six months. He mow devotes his time and energies to agricultural pursuits, and has a welldeveloped farm, the highly cultivated fields yielding to him a rich return.

On the 29th of November, 1877, Mr. Gregory was united in marriage to Miss America L. Henderson, who was born in Pleasant township, Franklin county, March 15, 1858, and is a daughter of Henry T. Anderson. When a maiden of eight summers she accompanied her parents to Westerville, Ohio, and acquired her education in the schools of Pleasant township and of Westerville. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory has been blessed with two children' - C. Frederick and Harry H. Mr. Gregory is an active member of the United Brethren church of Galloway, and is serving as one of its trustees. In politics he is a stanch Republican and keeps w^ell informed on the issues of the day, but has never sought or desired office, his time being fully occupied with his business cares. He now successfully follows agricultural pursuits and upom his place are found all modern accessories and conveniences, giving evidence of the progressive and enterprising spirit of the owner.

William B. And Eldon F. Smith

Progress is to-day the keynote of the world's history, and America is certainly the exponent of the spirit of the age. Along all lines which may be classified as utilitarian her advancement has been most marked, leading all other nations. To be actively identified with this great movement is to gain a place in the history of the country that is indeed desirable. In connection with the great department of agriculture, especially in stock-raising interests, the gentlemen whose names head this sketch, William Brown and Eldon F. Smith, father and son, have become widely known. They have a reputation throughout the country as breeders of Holstein cattle and have been the owners and produced some of the best cattle registered in America. They have indeed become leaders in this line, and through the prosecution of their individual business interests have largely contributed to the prosperity of stock-raisiers by improving the grade of cattle and thus raising the value of stock.

William B. Smith is a native of Athens county, Ohio, born in 1828, and is a representative of an old Virginia family, his father, Wjilliam Smith, having emigrated from the Old Dominion and cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers of Athens county when that region was first opening up to civilization, about the year 1800. He took up two hundred acres of land from the government and became a prominent agriculturist. William B. Smith was reared amid the wild scenes of the frontier and early became familiar with the labors of field and garden, assisting in the cultivation of the land from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the autumn.

William B. Smith married Miss Nancy A. Carpenter, a daughter of Rev. Jeremiah Carpenter, a Baptist minister of Meigs county, Ohio, whose parents came to the Buckeye state fi:om Virginia. He died about 1887. Eldon F. Smith, the son of William and Nancy Smith, was reared at his parental home and has always associated with his father in businessi. He married Jennie McBride, a daughter of William McBride, of Morrow county, who served in the Civil war as a member of an Indiana regiment, and is now a resident of Columbus. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two interesting children, Frank and Edith, both students in school. He is a valued member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks', the Knights of Pythias and the Masonic order, in which he has taken the Scottish-rite degrees; but while Mr. Smith enjoys the friendship of many acquaintances in Columbus and vicinity, he' isi most widely known in connection with his business interests.

In 1882 the father and son began stock raising on the Columbus state farm connected with the State Asylum for the Insane. They had made a specialty of the breeding of Holstein cattle and are now the owners of some of the finest specimens in the entire country. They own the celebrated bull Paul Dekol, the finest Holstein bull in America, and have others almost as valuable, constituting what is widely known as "Ohio's famous herd." They sell only calves and ship their stock into fully half the states in the Union. They exhibit at the state fairs and for the last six years have won, on an average, ninety per cent, of prizes. At present the herd numbers one hundred and twenty. They milk sixty-six cows and supply two hundred gallons per day to the asylum, which has fourteen hundred patientsi and three hundred employes. The farm is splendidly equipped for stock-raising purposes with large barns and milk houses, supplied with the latest improved facilities for caring for the dairy products. They have a splendid silo of three hundred and fifty tons, and the ensilage is all grown on the farm. Five men are employed to look after the buildings and the stock, and everything is done in the most up-to-date and progressive manner. It is a well known fact, proven by statistics, that the Holstein cattle are the best milk and butter producers, and it is evident then that they are the best cattle for general use.

William B. and Eldon F, Smith are both men of marked business ability, giving close attention to their interests, and gaining through their industry, perseverance, capable management and honorable business methods most desirable and creditable success,

Edward M. Helwagen

A prominent representative of the legal profession of the city of Columbus, Ohio, is Edward M, Helwagen, the subject of this sketch. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, February 23, 1872, and was a son of Edward

F and Mary J. (Warner) Helwagen, the former being- a native of Germany, fvhP-P he was born May 30, 1840. He came to America m 1849 with his ±nts Gotteib aLr^^^^ the family setthng at Williamsport,

Our subject was reared and educated in Circleville until his eighteenth year and then engaged in clerking for several years Selecting the law as his pro ession, he^ntered the office of Paul Jones, of this city, and applied imself so well that he was admitted to the bar m 1894. . In 1898 he was, elected to be a justice of the peace and has been in office continua ly ever since An active Democrat, Mr. Helwagen has been prominently identified with his party. Socially he is connected with the Woodmen of the World and the

^''^ The" marriage of our subject was celebrated February 12, 1896 to Miss Elizabeth Saner, of Columbus, and one daughter, Clara Lucil e has been born to them. Mrs,. Helwagen is a daughter of one of the old and prominent families of this city.

Henry Bohl

The insurance interests represented at Columbus, Ohio, involve, directly and indirectly, an almost incredible amount of capital and command the services of men whose ability and business experience fits them for any position, either in public or private life, to which they may be called. One of the most prominent representatives of this interest is Hon. Henry Bohl, the superiutendent of agencies for Ohio and Indiana of the Prudential Life Insurance Company, who has held many responsible positions as insurance manager legidator and government official, and in all of them has acquitted himself

Mr Bohl was born in Bavaria, Germany, and came to America with his parents, Conrad and Catherine (Altvater) Bohl, when he was ten years old. The family settled in Washington county, Ohio, where they lived on a farm, near Marietta. In 1864 Mr. Bohl settled in Marietta himself, his parents remaining on the farm. Young Bohl received a good common-school education and began his insurance career in Marietta in 1869. Three years later ill health compelled him to go -south and he connected himself with a prominent insurance company at Atlanta. Georgia. In 1873 he was unanimous y elected as secretary of the Underwriters' Insurance Association of the boutn, which covered a territory embracing eleven states. Returning to Marietta, Ohio in 1874, he was in 187S elected to the Ohio legislature from Washington county. He was elected to succeed himself in 1877. and he was again elected in 1883. It is worthy of note that the nomination was given him each time by acclamation. He was the chairman of the house committee on insurance for several years, and during the administration of Governor Hoad- ley was the chairman of the house finance committee, the most important body in the legislature. He was also the secretary of the Ohio state Democratic executive committee in the memorable state campaigns of 1884-5; ^^'^^ chairman of both the Democratic Ohio state central and executive committees in 1886, and chairman of the Ohio state central committee in 1887, and in each instance he was elected by acclamation. Early in President Cleveland's second administration Mr. Bohl was appointed United States marshal for the southern district of Ohio, and he served in that position during the Ohio miners' strikes and the Debs railway strike of 1894, with rare finesse and sagacity and upheld the laws with courage. In April, 1895, he resigned this office to accept his present position. In making mention of his retirement the press of the state almost without exception expressed regret at thestep he had taken and referred in terms of the highest praise to his integrity and faithfulness in office. The Enquirer, Commercial Gazette, Times Star and Tribune of Cincinnati and the German press of the same city and of the state generally, as well as the English papers, were unstinted in good words, and it was the unanimous opinion of Mr. Bohl's fellow townsmen that noone better deserved them.

In 1887 Mr. Bohl was appointed the receiver of the Second National Bank of Xenia, Ohio. His work there was so well appreciated that in 1893 Hon. J. H. Eckels, the comptroller of currency, tendered him the receivership of the Citizens' National Bank of Hillsboro, Ohio, which Mr. Bohl declined, with thanks. About this time he was appointed superintendent of agencies of the Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company of Newark, New Jersey, and filled the position for five years, with much credit and success. Mr. Bohl had declined the position of receiver of the public money for Wyoming tendered him during President Cleveland's first administration, as well as an Indian agency and a chief-clerkship in the office of the department of the interior at Washington. In 1878 he was a prominent candidate for congress in this district and was strongly supported for the nomination in the convention through more than eighty ballots, until, the second day, he withdrew and General A. J. Warner was nominated. In 1880 the Democratic press brought him forward for the office of secretary of state, but he declined to be a candidate. In 1881 he was urged to be a candidate for the lieutenantgovernorship and also for the senatorship in his district, but he declined to accept the nomination for either office. In 1884 many prominent Democrats of his district again insisted on nominating him for congress, and at a time when his nomination was deemed possible he withdrew from the field in the interest of harmony. For many years he was a stanch Democrat, but in 1896, on the adoption of the Chicago platform of that year declaring for the free and unlimited coinage of silver at a ratio of sixteen to one, and other populistic ideas,, he left the party and has since affiliated with the Republicans, in whose councils he has been given a place of honor. During the campaign of 1896 he made speeches in favor of McKinley in Ohio, Indiana, and three in Chicago, Illinois.

Since April i, 1895, Mr. Bohl has directed the affairs at Cohimbiis of the Prudential Life Insurance Company with characteristic ability and success. His public spirit is recognized by his fellow citizens of ah political parties, and he is one of the foremost to advocate any measure which he believes promises good to his city, county or state. In January, 1901, he w^as elected vice-president and director of the Columbus Savings & Trust Company, of Columbus, Ohio, it being the first bank in Columbus with a cash capital of five hundred thousand dollars. In March, 1901, he was also elected chairman of the legislative committee of the Columbus board of trade, it being one of the most important committees of this commercial body, wath a membership of over one thousand.

From the Western Underwriter, of Chicago, of January 17, 1901, \yq quote the following: "Those who have watched the progress of the Prudential in Ohio and Indiana cannot help but recognize the dominant personality behind the agency machinery in those two great life-insurance states. The dash and spirit, the system and wholesomeness manifest in the building up of this section of Gibraltar are largely due to the head and heart of Hon. Henry Bohl, superintendent of agencies for the territory named. Mr. Bohl has enthusiasm tracing every vein, and intelligence runs with it. His faculty to stimulate and to produce results is peculiarly fitted to agency guidance. Mr. Bohl is a widely known factor in Ohio politics, and his renunciation of Bryanism was a significant event in the Buckeye state. Owing to a constant drain on his physical resources in advancing his company's interests, Mr. Bohl has been in delicate health for weeks and not able to visit his field. His hundreds of friends will be glad to learn of his returning vitality and will wish him years of health and prosperity."

In the spring of 1899 Mr. Bohl delivered a lecture on life insurance before the students of the Ohio State University, making clear the science and ethics of the subject. He was the first man to speak from a university or college rostrum in Ohio upon this subject. He suggested that this science be added to the department of economics in the university. The Daily Evening Dispatch of Columbus sees no good reason why other branches of insurance, especially fire insurance, should not be added.

John W. Slyh

John W. Slyh is one of the representative farmers and successful citizens of Franklin county and is numbered among its native sons, his birth having here occurred on the nth of March, 1844. He is a son of Jacob and Emeline (Lakin) Slyh, and a grandson of Mathias and Mary (Drill) Slyh, who became the founders of the family in Franklin county. The grandfather was born in Pennsylvania and was the son of Frederick Slyh, who was a native of Germany and became the progenitor of this branch of the family in America. He settled in Lancaster county Pennsylvania, about 1735, there residing until his death. His son Mathias subsequently took up his abode near Har- per's Ferry, Virginia, and wedded Alary Drill, who was born September 8, 1779, and was ot English birth. They made their home in tnat locality until their removal to Franklin county, Ohio, in 1829. He was an enterprising man and a most excellent citizen. In the Reformed church he held membership and died in that faith, February 6, 1843. His wife, Mary, died March 17, 18 16. He had two sons, Mathias and Henry, the former born April 12, 1765, and the latter in 1767. Henry came to Ohio in 18 10, locating in Pickaway county, whence he afterward removed to Madison county. Jacob Slyh, the father of our subject, was a son of Mathias Slyh.

Jacob Slyh was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, October 31, 1798, and was married, July 31, 1828, to Emeline Lakin, who was born in Westmoreland county, Maryland, April 27, 1801. The following September, accompanied by his wife, he came to Franklin county, Ohio, and spent the succeeding winter in Columbus, which was then a frontier village. In the spring he purchased one hundred and fifty acres of land of which only a few acres had been cleared and on which there was a small log cabin. His capital was limited. He had about six hundred dollars, yet this was considered quite a sum of money in those days. For his land he paid eight dollars per acre. At that time he could have purchased the property which is now the site of the Union depot in Columbus for six dollars per acre, but the tract was low and wet and heavily timbered, and he decided that it would be a better investment to buy land four miles away at the higher price of ten dollars per acre. Upon the farm which he purchased he lived until 1850, when he bought another farm in the same township, and taking up his abode thereon made it his place of residence until his death, which occurred March 31. 1887. He was a member of the Episcopal church for nearly fifty years, living a consistent Christian life and was a generous supporter of the church.

Soon after coming to Franklin county he was elected justice of the peace, but in that office he never tried a suit, always endeavoring to have the contending parties settle their difficulties by arbitration without resorting to the law. He was nominated by the Democratic party for irepresentative in 1848, but as the Democracy was in the minority he was defeated. He was elected to the office of county commissioner in 1850 and served in that capacity for two terms in a very capable manner. He was again elected to the same office in 1862, discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. A liberal and broad-minded man, well informed on the questions of the day, he gave his support to all measures which he believed would prove o>f public benefit along the social, material, intellectual and moral line. He donated a building site for the Episcopal church in Clinton township, and in connection with John Kenney erected the house of worship. It was called the Union church from the fact that ]\Ir. Kenney was of the Reformed faith, both denominations using the church, holding their services on alternate Sundays. Mr. Slyh was a very industrious man and won success in his undertakings. He cleared the farm himself with the aid of his sons and at his death he left seventeen hundred acres of valuable land in Franklin county, besides considerable city property. During the war of 18 12 he used his teams in hauling army guns from Harper's Ferry to Baltimoire. One of these guns is now in the possession of John W. Slyh. His wife was born Apiril 27, 1801, and died June 6, 1886. She, too, was a member of the Episcopal church and a consistent Christian woman.

Mr. and Mrs. Slyh celebrated their golden wedding at their home on the 31st of July, 1878. The event was largely attended and there were present on that occasion two friends, Mrs. Cleggett and Mrs. Best, who witnessed their marriage fifty years before. Mr. and Mrs. Slyh were the parents of eight children, four sons and foiir daughters, namely : Daniel, who resides in Perry township; Jacob E., of Clinton township; Rebecca R., now the widow of Harrison Walcutt, of Columbus, Ohio; Henry, deceased; Mary E., the wife of Absalom Walcutt, of North Columbus; John \\., of Clinton township; Sirena Ann, the deceased wife of Harrison Walcutt; and Emoline O., who died in infancy.

John W. Slyh, whose name forms the caption of this article, acquired his rudimentary education in the public schools, which was supplemented by a course in Gannbier and Worthington Colleges. He was early inured to the arduous task of develciping the farm from the wilderness and remained at home with his parents until his marriage which occurred August 22, 1867, Sarah M. Armstrong, a daughter of Samuel and Jane (Thompson) Armstrong, becoming his wife. After his marriage they took up their abode upon the farm in Clinton township which is still their home. Her father was a son of Robert Armstrong, a native of county Tyrone, Ireland, born in 1795, After attaining his majority he came to America, settling in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and a few years later he removed to Belmont county, Ohio, where he died in 1846. He had seven children, namely: James, William, John, Samuel, Robert, Thomas and Margaret; the last named is the wife of Thomas Thompson. All of the children came to Franklin county with the exception of James, who resided in or near Clarkson, Ohio, and all are now deceased. They were enterpirising, public-spirited and highly respected people.

Samuel Armstrong was married in Pennsylvania to Miss Jane Thompson, and on coming to Ohio located in Belmont county, whence he removed to Perry township, Franklin county, settling on a farm west of Worthington which he purchased. On this farm he resided until his death. He and his wife were exem.plary members of the Presbyterian church of Worthington, in which he served for many years as an elder. Unto them were born ten children, namely: Elizabeth H., the wife of W^atson Tripp, of Hilliard', Ohio; Rose A., the deceased wife of William Martin; ]\Iargaret J., the widow of Montgomery Starrett, of Columbus ; Robert and Thomas, both deceased ; Sarah M., the wife of our subject; William T., who married Frances King, of Columbus; Mary A., the wife of Samuel Webb, of that city; and Llewellyn, who married Flora Cook and resides in Clinton township. Mr. Armstrong* died orr his homestead farm in Perry township, January 29, 1881, at the age of seventy-two years, and his wife passed away June 6, 1883, at the age of sixty-eight years.

Unto J\lr. and Mrs. Slyh were born five children: Charles R., who married Gertrude Johnson; Emma R., the wife of Louis Gooding, of Columbus; Edwin M., who wedded Alice INI. Legg; Harry L. and Chester L. Mr. Slyh holds membership in the Episcopalian church and his wife in the Congregational church, of North Columbus, of which the children are also members. The family have a very pleasant home in the midst of a valuable farm of two hundred and eighty acres, which is owned and operated by John W. Slyh, and is one of the desirable properties in Clinton township. He is a progressive and enterprising agriculturist and his success is attributable entirely to hisi own efforts. He has been identified with the office of township trustee for nineteen years and is the present incumbent. He was also township treasurer for eight years. In politics he is a Democrat and socially he is connected with the Masonic fraternity, belonging to New England Lodge, No. 4, F. & A. M., of Worthington, while in the Scottish rite he has attained the thirty-second degree.

Mrs. Catherine Krauss was for many years one of the most prominent ladies in the city of Columbus, a well-known representative of business interests and a leader in charitable and benevolent work. She was born in France and bore the maiden name of Catherine Leib. In 1826 she crossed the Atlantic to the new world and made her way direct to Columbus, where soon after her arrival she was united in marriage to George Krauss. Her husband owned and was landlord of the Eagle Hotel, wherein he operated the first bakery in the city, and he was even more widely known as a French baker than as 'the host of the hotel. In this hotel was located the first public hall in the city, and there were held the magnificent military balls' which graced the early days at the capital. There also the old-time military companics had their headquarters and held their weekly drills. Mr. Krauss died in 1850, at the age of sixty-five years, and Mrs. Krauss afterward purchased the Canal Hotel, located on' what is now South Canal street and at that time in the heart of the business district. She always had a great attachment for her old home, and, although changes were wrouglit in the city so that the residence district was moved elsewhere, she continued at the old homestead until the time of her death.

Mrs. Krauss w-as most active and influential in benevolent work, and the record of her charities forms a bright page in the history of Columbus. When in the early days Columbus felt the need of and sought to estalilish an infirmary, Mr. and Mrs. Krauss gave the necessary land and the infirmary was built. It was later removed and the site used by the citv whereon to erect the present Beck Street school building. The means of this worthy couple were freely used to advance the public interest along tbs line of material, social, intellectual and moral welfare, and they never withheld their support and aid whenever opportunity was offered to relieve want or distress. The great cholera scourge and again the epidemic of small-pox, which raged in Columbus in the years gone by, were two occasions which demonstrated the nobleness of the nature of Mrs. Krauss. Though possessed of sufficient means to enable her to remove her family beyond the reach of danger, she refused to- go, and, seemingly devoid of any fear of contagion, she put her soul into the work of caring for those from whom all others had fled in fear, and, as the older physicians well say, she was an angel of mercy. This great element of the religion of humanity actuated her every-day life until withm the last few weeks, when her eyes became dimmed and the feet, which were always ready to go where others could be made happy, could no longer travel. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Krauss was blessed with ten children, five of whom still survive her, namely: Martin, a resident of Kansas City; Christian, who is living near North Lewisburg, Ohio; Mrs. Frederick Fornof, Sr., Mrs. Edward Fisher; and Mrs. Jonathan Dent, who reside in California. The other daughters are all living in this city. Mrs. Krauss continued at the old home she so truly loved until called to the home beyond, April 25, 1898, after seventy-two years' residence in Coilumbus. "Her children rise up and call her blessed," and her memory remains as a grateful benediction and inspiration to all who knew her.

Sebastian B. Biggert

The agricultural interests of Prairie township are well represented by Sebastian Byron Biggert. The family name was formerly spelled without the final "t." John Bigger, the grandfather of our subject, was bom in Ireland, and on leaving the Emerald Isle crossed the Atlantic to the new world, taking up his abode in Pennsylvania, where be was married. Subsequently he came to Obio and settled on the banks of the Big Darby, two miles south of Georgesville, in Pleasant township, Franklin county. He had two hundred and twenty acres of land, all wild and unimproved, for the country was in its primitive condition, and his nearest neighbor was at Harrisburg. He took an active part in the pioneer development of this section of the state, and died upon his old homestead in 18 18.

Samuel Biggert, the father of our subject, was born on the old homestead farm there September 22, 1809, and was reared to manhood under the parental roof. He attended the district schools to a limited extent, for the schoolhouse was some distance from his home and his labors were needed upon the home farm. During his boyhood he engaged in hunting wild game, which was then quite numerous. Indians would frequently camp upon the home farm and there was little promise of progress and improvement in the mear future. Mr. Biggert remained at home until his marriage, which occurred on the 6th of May, 1834, Miss INIary Roberts becoming his wife.

She was born December 6, 1816, on the banks of Little Darby, in Madison county, Ohio, a daughter of Thomafe' Roberts, who was born in Berkeley, county, West Virginia, in 1774. With his wife, Mrs. Susan Roberts, he came to Ohio, locating in Pleasant township, Franklin county, and his death occurred at West Jefferson, Madison county, September 30, 1864, his wife passing away on the 18th of the same month. After their marriage Samuel and Mary Biggert took up their abode about three-quarters of a mile from the homestead farm on which he had been reared. Later they removed to Georgesville, where at one time the father owned more than seventeen hundred acres of land, a part o^f which was in Madison county. In his political affiliations he was a Whig, but from the time of the war was a Democrat. His death occurred on the old homestead, June 28, 1888, and his wife, who was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, passed away April 2, 1896. Their children were as follows: Martha, born May 25, 1835, married Beckwith Nolan ALirch 5, 1856. and died m Madison county, Ohio', June 13, 1900; ALatilda ^^L'lrian, born July 14. 1837. was married ^Lirch 5, 1856, to WilHam Fitzgerald and died in Madison county February 22, 1863; Susan E., born Mav 20, 1839, was married SeptemDer 2. 1858, to Joseph Gardner, and died August 22, 1895, in Madison county; Thomas K, born November 5, 1840, was married November 19, 1863, to .\laria Bennett and resides near Wriglitsville, Ohio; John, born November 28, 1841, died in infancy; Samuel, born September 13, 1843, died October 20, i860; ^^larg-aret Ann, born July 30, 1846, died January 30, 1888; John R., born August 30, 1848, w^as married January 27, 1881, to Mrs. Jennie Percy and resides at Georgesville; Sebastian B. is the next of the family; Mary S., born SeiDtember 21, 1852, was married March 20, 1878, to Joseph Johnson, of Madison county; William S., born September 28, 1854, died April 13, 1871 ; Charlotte, born September 7, 1857, was married October 21, 1880, to Lrther Johnson, and their home is also in Madison county ; and Frank, born ^Lirch 3, 1862,' was married April 14, 1885, to Ella Nash and resides in the same countv.

Sebastian B. Biggert, whose name introduces this record, was born on the home farm at Georgesville, July 2, 1850, and was educated in the district schools, pursuing his studies during the winter terms until twenty years of age. In the summer months he was frequently kept at home to assist in the work of the farm. He aided in clearing and developing the landand early became familiar with the duties and labors which fall to the lot of the agriculturist. His school life began rather unfavorably. His first teacher Avas David Merriman, to whom he went one day. On that day he received a whipping with a rod and refused to go again. However, under other instructors he continued his mental training, and experience m the practical affairs of life, together with his reading and observation, has made him a well-informed man. He remained at home until his marriage, which was celebrated March 12. 1872, Miss Marv A\'ignel becoming his wife.

is yet their home, Hving- in a log cabin of two rooms, to which a third room' was afterward added. His capital was small and his farm comprised one hundred and twenty acres, only fifty acres of which had been cleared. He 3ias cleared the remainder, fenced and tiled the place, erected a commodious brick residence about 1882 and has added to his farm all modern accessories and improvements. It is now a very desirable and valuable place.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bigg-ert have been born five children : Mary Susan, born January 5, 1873; Samuel Thomas, born August 31, 1874; Rebecca Josephine, born September 8, 1876, and died at the age of eighteen years; Sebastian, who was born October 14, 1878, and was married September 12, 1900, to Tracy Grossman, their home being now in Galloway; and Blanche Olive, who was born April 10, 1889. Mr. Biggert has always taken an active interest in politics and has ever adhered to Democratic principles. He has served for many years as school director, was trustee of his township for three years and for four terms served as township treasurer. In 1892 he was elected county commissioner for one term, and in all these positions he has discharged his duties with promptness and fidelity, thus winning the high commendation of his constituents.

James S. Britton

The population of the city of Columbus, Ohio, contains among its citizens miany men of means who have settled here in comparative retirement, after an active life upon the farm. Among those of this class is the highly respected subject of the present sketch, whose residence in Columbus dates from 1884. Mrs. Britton was born in Norwich township, Franklin county, Ohio, October 20, 1822. His parents were Ben j amine and Elizabeth Grace Britton, the former a native of Frederick county, Virginia, bors September 14, 1779. Soon after marriage, in 181 1, he removed to Norwich township, becoming a farmer on the west bank of the Scioto river in Ohio, and remained in that locality until his decease. He was a good man, a minister of the Christian church, devoting fifty-one years to the preaching of the gospel, riding a circuit in pioneer days. He died September 26, i860. The mother of our subject was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, January 20, 1780, and died March 26, 1846. Her father was a native of Ireland, but the paternal ancestors came from England, first settling in Pennsylvania.

James S. Britton spent his boyhood on the farm in Norwich township, for a short time receiving instruction in a subscription school, later attending a private school, where he received a fair education. He reimained with his father on the farm, until t^he time of his marriage, after which he settled on a farm in Norwich townshi^^, near Hilliard, where he engaged in farming* amtil i860. At that time he removed to Hilliard and opened a general store. Mr. Britton made a success of this undertaking, conducting the store in connection with farming, and dealing in hogs and cattle. In 1884 he disposed

The first marriage of Mr. Britton was to Miss Vn-gnua baunders, a daughter of Miskell Saunders, of Frankhn township, her death occurrmg m February, 1896. She was a devoted Christian woman, beloved by all. Mr. Britton was married, a second time, to Miss Melvilta Barbee, an accomplished, cultured lady, a daughter of James Barbee, of Franklin county.

In his political opinions Mr. Britton has always been a Democrat and has always been a strong advocate of the prohibition of the hqu'cr traffic. He has never sought office, although he served one term as a justice of the peace For thirty years he has been a consistent nuember of the Methodist Episcopal church, where his many admirable traits of dharacter are recognized The beautiful home of the family, located in one of the best residence portions of the city, was erected fifteen years ago, and there Mr. and Mrs. Britton dehght to dispense a generous hospitality.

Some years, ago Mr. Britton donated to the Ohio Wesleyan Ijmversity at Delaware a farm and the property where he resides, the whole value ot which is thirty thousand dollars, with the intention of endowing a chair in said university to be named for Mr. Britton, and conveyed the property to the university, reserving a life estate for himself and his wife in the residence property. This is only one of the many acts of benevolence by M;r. Britton known to the writer of this sketch. He has helped to educate a number ot young men and young women and contributed largely to the erection ot churches.

Edward N. Coberly

For almost two decades Edward Newton Coberly has been engaged in general merchandising in Georgesville, and is also proprietor of a well-improved farm in Pleasant township. He was born in Madison county, Ohio, on the 7th of August, 1853, but during his infancy was brought by his parents to Franklin county. The family is of English ancestry and was tound^ed in the new world at an early period of its development. The grandfather, William Coberly, was born in Virginia, was a farmer by occupation and on removing to Ohio located in either Ross or ^ladison county. \\ hen the war of 1812 was in progress he enlisted as. a private, but on reaching Franklinton learned that peace had been declared. He was twice married and died in Madison countv, near Walnut Run. 1-1 1 r

Wihiam Coberlv, the father of our suliject. was the youngest child of his father's first marriage. He was born in Madison county m 1823, Avas reared to farm life and pursued his education in the district schools, but his privileges in that direction were quite meager. His mother died when he was a child and he went to live witli an uncle. Job Coberly, in ^ladi-on county, with whom he remained until he attained man s estate. He married Margaret Gardner, who was born in Franklin county m 1827, a daughter of

Edward Tiffin and Sarah (Hall) Gardner, the latter born in Virginia in 1801. Mr. Gardner was connected with the family of Governor Tiffin. After his marriage the father of our subject resided for one year in Madison county and then came to Pleasant township, Franklin county, wliere he purchased a small farm east of Georgesville. He died February 4, 1890, but his wife is still living on the old homestead. Both held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics he was a stanch Republican, unswerving in his support of the principles of the party. The children of this worthy couple were : EdKvard N. ; William Parker, who married Minnie Gardner and is living in Pleasant township; Sarah, who died at the age of six years; Margaret, who died in infancy; and Thomas W., who is upon the home place.

In Pleasant township Edward Newton Coberly was reared, spending his youth upon the farm, and in the district schools acquired his education. As soon as old enough to follow the plow he began working in the fields, and from the time of early spring planting until crops were garnered in the autumn he aided in the work of cultivating and improving his father's land. His preparation for a home of his own was completed on the 26th of March, 1878, by his marriage to Melissa Scott, of Pleasant township. She was born in the old town of Georgesville, January 19, 1853, a daughter of William and JN'Iartha (Upp) Scott. They now ha^-e two children. Edward D wight and Marie Hazel. The son is now attending the Ohio State University and the daughter is a student in the Columbus high school.

After his marriage Mr. Coberly removed to Georgesville, where he engaged in teaching the district schools for ten years. He then turned his attention to merchandising and since 1882 has conducted his general store, carrying a large line of goods, for which he finds a ready sale, having a large patronage. He is also^ the owner of a farm of one hundred ten and three- Ifourths acres in Pleasant township, and is a dealer in coal. "Keep out of debt" has been his motto in business matters, and- he owes no mam he cannot pay on demand, and was never in a suit at law, either as plaintiff or defendant, and has never sent a collector to any patron of his store. His various business interests are well conducted, and his enterprising spirit enables him to carry forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. In politics he is a staunch Republican, and during President Garfield's administration he capably served as postmaster o'f Georgesville. During his long residence in the county he has formed a wide acquantance, and the fact that many who have known him from boyhood are numbered among his best friends is an indication that his career has ever been an upright one.

Herman F. Schirner

Prominent in the musical circles of Columbus is Herman Frederick Schirner. As his name indicates, he is a representative of that nation wliich has given to the world its finest musical compositi'ons. The love of music is characteristic of the German people and is one of the dominating elements in its culture. Mr. Schirner of this review has done much to piromote the love of this great art and to improve the musical tastes of the people with whom he is associated as a resident of Ohio's capital city.

A native of the duchy of Saxony, he was born near the home ot the renowned composer Liszt. Bach was a native of that locality, his birth having occurred at Weimar, and in the community resided many famous pupils who were instructed by Liszt. The Duke of Weimar encouraged musical education in that locality and made it one of the musical centers of the country. There the father of our subject engaged in merchandising, and Herman F. spent tne days of his boyhood and youth in that favorite locality, acquiring his_ education from private teachers, having the best masters. He continued in Germany until twenty-two years of age, when, in 1856, he bade adieu to friends and native land and crossed the Atlantic to America. The following year he accepted the position of professor of music in the Seminary of Worthmgton Franklin county, Ohio, and in i860 became the superintendent of the musical department in the Wesleyan Female College, at Delaware, where he remained for three years, also teaching German. In 1863 he began teaching music m Columbus and has since been a very prominent factor in the musical circles of this city. He spent the summer of 1875 in the Fatherland. It was his intention to sail on the steamer Schiller, which was lost off Scilly island. His brother and his wife and a friend were among the passengers on that illfated vessel, and had it not been for illness, which prevented his sailing, Professor Schirner would also have embarked on that steamer. He, however, sailed on the next steamer and did not learn of the wreck until he had arrived in England. From' that country he made his way to his native land and pleasantly spent the summer amid the scenes of his boyhood, renewing old acquaintances with the friends of former years. Professor Schirner s great love of the "art divine" is one elaiient in his success as a teacher, and combined with this in his excellent ability to explain to his students the elements and principles of music. For twenty-five years he has given his services gratuitously foT benevolent purposes, aiding in many concerts that have been given for charity, and he was specially helpful in this w^ay during the war, when entertainments were given for the purpose of raising funds for the benefit of the "boys in blue" at the front.

Professor Schirner was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Schrader. a native of Columbus and a daughter of August Schrader, who for many years occupied a position in the city engineer's office as draftsman and architect. He has been liberallv educated, enjoying the privileges of a course m the University at Berlin. His death occurred in 1893, when he had attained the age of eighty-two years. Three children have been born unto the Professor and his wife, two sons and a daughter: Oliver E., who is employed in the Hayden Clinton Bank; Otto Herman, who is employed in the Deshler Bank; and Dorothea Almelia, who is in school. The family is one of prominence, occupving a leading position in social circles. Professor Schirner is a member of the! Humbolt Verein, the lea(hno- musical and Hterary society o£ Columbus, and for many years was a mennber of the Maennerchor. For three yeairs, from 1863 to 1866, he was the organist in the Second Presbyterian church and afterward served the Universalist church in that way. He now attends the services of the Independent church, and in politics he is somewhat independent, but usually votes with the Republican party. A man of scholarly attainments and ibroad culture, he has done much to improve the musical tastes of the city and to spread the knowledge of that art "which is the universal language of mankind."

Jonathan E. Park

Jonathan E. Park is now living retired after long years of connection with the agricultural interests, his home being in New Albany. He is numbered among the native sons of Franklin county, his birth having ^occurred in Blendon township, on the i8th of May, 1831, his parents being Ezekiel and Elizabeth (Crist) Park. His paternal grandfather was a soldier in the war of 1812. He went to the front and was probably killed in battle, for nothing was ever heard from him again. His widow then reared her children and about 1828 came with her family to Ohio, locating in Licking county, where she spent her remaining days. The father of our subject was born in Kentucky, in 1808, and during his early childhood his parents removed to Virginia, settling in the Shenandoah valley. After his father's death he became the main stay of the fa'mily and in early life assumed the bmrden of caring for his mother and the younger children. After his mother's death he came to Franklin county and purchased ninety acres of land in Blendon towniship, constituting the farm now owned by Jonah Crist. It was then an uribroken forest tract, and, clearing away the trees, he built a log cabin and continued the further work of developing and improving his farm. He completed his arrangements for a home by his marriage and then provided for his family through his agricultural pursuits. He Tesided upon his pioneer farm until 1845, when he went to Plain township to assume the management of a farm belonging to his father-in-law, Abraham Crist. He had married Eliza'beth Crist and unto them were born eleven children, namely: Jonathan E., Mary A., the wife of Levi Swickard, a farmer of Plain township; Samuel W.. an agriculturist of the same township; Abraham C, who follows farming in Mifflin township; Sarah J., now the widow of Jacdb Searfoss, of Plain township; Charlotte E., widow of Owen Nutt, and a resident of Genoa township, Delaware county; William F., who follows farming in Blendon township; David P., an agriculturist of Plain township; Amanda A., the wife of John Ogden, a blacksmith of Gahanna, Ohio; Saphrona E., who became the wife of Hosea Carpenter, a farmer of Plain township; and Caroline E., the widow of Martin Cubbage. a farmer of Blendon township. In 1863 the mother of this family died and later in the same year the father married Mrs. Henderson, with whom he removed to Harlem, Delaware eoimty.

She survived her marriage fifteen years, and after her death ]\Ir. Park returned to Plain township, FrankHn county, making his home with his son, vSamuel, on the old Crist farm. He lived to the age of eighty-three years and never, had occasion to employ a physician in his own behalf. He gave his political support to the Democracy and for many years was justice of peace in Delaware county. Connected with military affairs he served for years as captain of the state militia. He was a gentleman of commanding presence and was said to be among the strongest men ever in the county. He enjoyed the respect and regard of all with whom he was associated and was an active worker and licensed exhorter in the United Brethren church, doing all in his power to advance the cause of Christianity among his fellow men.

Jonathan E. Park, whose name introduces this record, remained on the old fami4y homestead and became familiar with all the duties and labors of the agriculturist. His preliminary education, acquired in the public schools, was supplemented by study in Otterbein University, at Westerville. He was a member of the first class, w^as present at the founding of the school and carried a banner at the time of the fiftieth anniversary of its establishment, held in Westerville, in. 1897. At that time he was the only man present who had witnessed the founding of the institution a half century before.

On the 22d of September, 1853, Mr. Park was united in marragi to Miss Sarah J. Rex, of Summit county, Ohio, a daughter of Jacob Rex, a prominent agriculturist of that community. The young couple began their domestic life upon a portion of a farm in Plain township which he still owns and occupies, he and his father having purchased ninety acres of land some months previous. They divided the property, our subject becoming the owner of foriy-five acres, and about a year and a half later JMr. Park of this review purchased an adjoining thirty-acre tract of land on which was good buildings and substantial improvements. He then took up his abode upon) the new place and resided there for a quarter of a century. He then purchased his present home farm and continued there until November, 1900, when he removed to New Albany, where he is now living a retired life. He had acquired two hundred and forty acres of land, one hundred acres of which he has given and sold to his son, but retaining possession of one hundred and fortyfour acres which is well improved and yields to him an excellent income.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Park have been born five children, of whom four are yet living, as follows: Lewis E., of this township; Augustus E., a commercial traveler of Columbus, Ohio; Lovett E., a practicing physician of Basil, Fairfield county, Ohio, whose reputation extends to many adjoining counties; Ida M., wife of H. G. Youngker, of Wayne county, Ohio; and Lucy A., deceased wife of John Frank Clymer. The mother of this family died January T, 1884, and the same year Mr. Park was joined in wedlock to Estella L. Kitsmiller, who had formerly been a Miss Carpenter. By this marriage there were two children, Maud E., at home, and William Jonathan, noAv deceased.

closing- the liquor traffic, and he embodies his views on the question in his support of the Prohibition party. He holds membership in the Radical United Brethren church, is one of its trustees and has been class leader, steward and secretary of the quarterly conference. He served for one term as trustee of liis township, but has not been an office seeker, preferring to devote his energies to his own 'business affairs. He owes his success in life entirely to his own efforts and all that he has has been acquired through farming and stock raising. He began life empty-handed and through close attention to business, honorable methods and untiring perseverance he has advanced steadily to a position of affluence, 'being now numbered among the substantial citizens of his community.

Ferdinand Siegel

The subject of this sketch is one of the leaders of the Democratic party in Columbus and vicinity, his large acquaintance and unbounded popularity giving him an influential following, while his shrewd judgment of men and affairs make his counsel of value in all important movements. In business affairs he also takes foremost rank as a successful lawyer, and is associated in practice with his brother, Frank A.

Mr. Siegel was born in Troy, Ohio, in 1856, a son of Ferdinand Siegel, Sr., who was born in Baden Baden, Germany, in 1812, and as a boy was a friend of General Sigel, living only nine miles apart in their native land. The father of our subject was a student in both Eng-lish and German in the Lyoeiuii of his birthplace. Coming to the new world, he, in 1843, located in Troy, Ohio, where he made his home until locating on a farm in Putnam county, in i860, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1888. He took a great interest in local affairs, served as township trustee or several terms, and was a member of the school board for a quarter of a century. Politically he was a supporter of the Democratic party, and religiously was an earnest member of the Presbyterian church. In Dayton, Ohio, he married Miss Mayt Akre, also a native of Baden Baden, Germany, who died in 1872, at the age of forty-nine years.

The primary education of Ferdinand Siegel, Jr., was obtained in the public schools of Putnam county. Later he attended the Troy high school and Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, New York, graduating at the latter institution in 1875. He then successfully engaged in teaching school in Putnam county until 1880, when he came to Columbus and commenced the study of law with the firm of Collins & Atkinson. On his admission to the bar in 1882, he at once opened an office in Columbus, and has since successfully engaged in general practice at that place. Here he was united in marriage to Miss Matilda Koch, a daughter of Peter and Jacobina S, (Becher) Koch, both natives of Germany. Her father died in October, 1899, aged eighty-nine years, her mother in 1893, aged sixty-nine. The latter was the oldest milliner in Columbus, having been in continuous business for forty years. Both were highly respected and esteemed by all who knew them.

Centennial Biographical History. 37 S.

As a Democrat Mr. Siegel has taken a very prominent part in political affairs, and as a speaker and writer in both English and German his influence has been felt throughout the state. He has written much for the Democratic press on the money and tariff questions, and many of these articles have been copied and used by the national committee, including two addresses on the money question in 1896. Mr. Siegel is a thorough believer in the principles of bimetallism, and is the president of the Gold and Silver League of Central Ohio, one of the largest political organizations in the state. He has corresponded largely with most of the prominent senators, congressmen and public men, and stands deservedly high in political circles. He has never asked for office, however, but seeks to advise and move opinion as a private citizen.

William H. Barbee

\Mlliam H. Barbee, deceased, through the years of his identification with Franklin county, enjoyed the highest respect of his fellow citizens by reason of his sterling worth, strict integrity and honorable dealings. His devotion to the public welfare also made him a valued factor in public life, and by his death the community was deprived of one of her best citizens.

A native of this county, Mr. Barbee was borni in Jackson township, April 26, 1 841. His father, William Barbee, was born in Virginia, and when a small boy came to Franklin county, Ohio, where during the years of his manhood he followed the occupation of farming. He married Eliza Rowles, a native of Maryland, and to them were born eight children, six sons and two daughters, all born in Jackson township.

Of this family William H. Barbee was the eldest son. He was reared to manhood in his native township, and the education he acquired in its public schools was supplemented by a course of study at Otterbein University. Llis school days over, he embarked in the stock business, which he followed many years, being one of the leading stock dealers of Grove City, where he made his home, and he also engaged in farming with good success.

In Fairfield county, Ohio, Mr. Barbee was married, in 1864, to Miss Martha R. Leib, a native of that county and a daughter of Joseph and Clarissa (Allen) Leib. The father was also born in Fairfield county, and was a son of Joseph Leib, Sr., who on coming to this state from Pennsylvania at an early day located there. Her mother was a descendant of Ethan Allen, of Revolutionary fame. She was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Levi Allen, who located in Muskingum county at an early day and followed the occupation of farming. Mrs. Barbee is the seventh in order of birth in a family of nine children, four sons and five daughters, all of whom reached years of maturity. She was reared in the county of her nativity and was fitted for the teacher's profession in the schools of Lancaster, after which she successfully engaged in teachiug in the schools of Fairfield and Perry counties for three years. With the exception of a few years spent in Columbus, she has made her home in Grove City since her marriage, and here she is surrounded by a large circle of friends and acquaintances who have for her the highest regard. To Mr. and Mrs. Barbee were born two daughters: Clara Eliza, the elder, is now the wife of E. C. Wagner, of Grove City. Annabel is the widow of Dr. Frank Obets and has a little daughter, Frances Ruth. Dr. Obets was born in this county, and was educated for his profession at the Starling Medical College, Columbus, and also at other schools. He became a prominent physician of Columbus, where he was successfully engaged in practice for some years.

The Republican party always found in Mr. Barbee a stanch supporter of its principles, and he did all within his power to advance its interests. He was the second Republican chosen as sheriff of Franklin county, being elected to that office in 1886, ;and wdien renominated was defeated only by a small majority. When elected to that office he retired from active business, having already secured a comfortable competence, which enabled him to lay aside all business cares. He was a charter member of the Odd Fellows Lodge at Grove City, in which he filled all the offices, and was widely and favorably known throughout the county where his entire life was passed. He died June I, 1897, and was laid to rest in Green Lawn cemetery by the fraternity to which he belonged. He was considered one of the best sheriffs of the county, and was a man of the highest respectability, who kft a large circle of friends to mourn his loss asi well as his immediate family.

Charles Riebel. '

This well-known resident of Grove City is one of the self-made men of "Franklin county, whose early life was devoted mainly to farming, and who has acquired a handsome competence which now enables him to lay aside all business cares and live retired. As a young man of seventeen years he came to America, and with no capital started out in a strange land to overcome the difficulties and obstacles in the path to prosperity. His youthful dreams have been realized, and in their happy fulfillment he sees the fitting reward of his earnest toil.

Mr. Riebel was born in Ranis, Germany. March 9, 1836, and after leaving school, at the age of fourteen, he devoted the following three years to learning the butcher's trade in his native land. He then crossed the Atlantic and came direct to Columbus, Ohio, beginning work at once in the stone quarries of this place, getting out stone for the state-house. He followed that occupation for four months, and then commenced work on the farm of John Stimmel, at thirteen dollars per month, being employed in that way for four years.

Hr. Ahd Mrs. Charles Riebel

9, 1835, and at the age of eighteen emigrated to the new world, locating in Columbus. They have become the parents of six children, all born in Franklin county, namely : Paulina, iiDw the wife of Charles Ballard ; Charlie, who married Emma Groul; Lewis, who married Amelia Emmelhinse; Mary, wife of Henry Emmelhinse; Minnie, wife of Jack Gresley; and William, who married Kate Hentzel.

The first year after his marriage ]\Ir. Riebel rented the Stimmel farm and engaged in general farming, and then lived for a year each on the farms belonging to Jesse Cartright and John Young. The following year he worked . in the sawmill of George Simmler, and then leased the Henry Henderson farm in Pleasant township for five years. During the fifth year he entered the seryice of his adopted country, enlisting in 1865, in Company C, One Hundred and Ninety-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. In the fall of that year he purchased one hundred acres of land in Pleasant township, upon which he made his home until he retired from active farming in 1899 and removed to Grove City. Success attended his well-directed efforts, for he was an enterprising and industrious farmer as well as a man of good business ability, and he added to his landed possessions from time to time. Four years after locating upon his farm he bought fifty acres, later purchased a tract of seventy-five acres; next bought the Miller farm of two hundred and twenty-one acres, and in 1895 purchased one hundred and twenty-five acres, making in all five hundred and seventy-one acres, which he has since given to his children on specified conditions. In his labors Mr. Riebel has ahvays been ably assisted by his estimable wife, who has. proved to him a true helpmeet, aiding him in every possible way. He deserves, great credit for the success that he has achieved in life, and well merits the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens. Politically he is a standi Republican and served as trustee of Pleasant township two yearsi and school director for some time. His wife is a member of the Lutheran church, to which he has been a liberal contributor.

Alvin Monroe Shoemaker

Among the active and prominent citizens of Columbus who are factors in public affairs at this time there are few more conspicuous or more popular than the alderman named above, who represents the north end of the city in the: city council. Mr. Shoemaker was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 1854, a son of Joseph and Susan (Fenstermacher) Shoemaker. His father, who was a native of Pennsylvania, came to Ohio in boyhood and removed to Iowa in 1858, and there the subject of this sketch received his primary education in the public schools. Returning to Ohio, he was for two years a student at the high school at Canlal Winchester, Franklin county. He early acquired a knowdedge of the carpenter's trade, and in 1873, when he was nineteen years old, he came to Columbus and entered the employ of B. H. Howe, a manufacturer of picture frames. Later he was employed at car- penter work, and in 1876 he became the foreman of the wood-working machinery department of the Colmiibus Buggy Company, the largest concern of its kind in the world, with w^hich he was employed for nineteen years. In 1897 he became the superintendent of the Columbus Coffin Company, a responsible position which he is filling at this time. He has always taken an active interest in county and city affairs and has long been recognized as an efficient worker for the success of the Republican party. He w^as the chairman of the Republican county central committee in 1893-4, and in 1899 was elected an alderman from the nineteenth ward, and in April, 1900, was re-elected, for two years. He is the chairman of the water-works and viaduct committee and a member of the judiciary committee, lb& gas and electricity committee and the Goodale Park committee. He is making an enviable record as a municipal legislator and has come to be known as an alderman who works for the best interests of the city and exerts himself to the utmost to advance such measures as promise to benefit his fellow citizens. He was elected vice-president of the board of aldermen in 1900, and re-elected in April, 1901, both times unanimously.

Jacob Fenstermacher, Mr. Shoemaker's grandfather in the maternal line, came to Ohio from Pennsylvania and was prominent in Fairfield county during pioneer days and later. He was a man of strong character, upright in all his dealings, who made a success! in life in his day and generation, and his daughter, Mr. Shoemaker's mother, was a woman of many virtues who most worthily filled her allotted place in life. Joseph Shoemaker possessed those sterling traits of character which have made Pennsylvanians successful wherever they have gone ; and it is not remarkable that from sudi parents Alvin Monroe Shoemaker inherited those qualities' which have started him on a career of success. Mr. Shoemaker married Miss Lena L. Adams, a daughter of Dr. D. P. Adams, who has practiced his profession at Columbus for a third of a century and has attained prominence as a physician and has done good work outside of his profession as a member of the city board of education, with which he is identified at this time. Dr. Adams is a son of James Adams, a native of Virginia, who became a prominent pioneer in Morgan county and who, though from a slaveholding state, was one of the most zealous workers in the interest of the underground railroad by wdiich slaves escaped to freedom in the days before the war, and his farm was a station on the line at which many a fugitive slave found comfort and concealment and from which he was safely conducted to the next station. Mr. Adams fought in the war of 181 2 and in the Mexican war, and was a leader in all public affairs in Morgan county. He died at the advanced age of ninety-seven years. The grandfather of Dr. Adams was a Revolutionary soldier.

Mr. Shoemaker's position in the business community of Columbus/ is a good one and his standing in connection with public affairs is one in which his friends and constituents take pride. In religious affiliation he is a Presbyterian and he is an active and helpful member of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian church, in the work of which Mrs. Shoemaker also labors zealously.

John Bartlett

John Bartlett has long resided in Franklin county, either in Jackson or Pleasant township, and to-day he is identified with the farming niterests of the latter. His grandfather, William Bartlett, lived and died in New York, and served as a soldier in the war of 1812. Erasttis Wilder Bartlett, the father of our subect, was also born in the same county, in the year 1810, and remained in the I^mpire state until twenty-two years of age. He was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads and acquired a fair education. In 1832 he determined to try his fortune in the west and removed to Columbus, Ohio, where he remained for a short time. He then married Miss Mary S inkier, of Jackson township, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, in 1 81 2, and was a maiden of sixteen summers when brought to Jackson township, Franklin county, by her parents, Samuel and Mary Sinkler. Her father was a native of Ireland, and on coming to the United States took up his abode in Maryland, whence he subsequently removed to Muskingum county, Ohio, and thence to Franklin county, his death occurring in Jackson township. After his marriage Erastus W. Bartlett rented a tract of land and began its operation, following farming throughout his entire life. His political support was given the Democracy. He died in Jackson township in 1865, and his wife, long surviving him, passed away in Pickaway county in 1896.

They had seven children, namely : Lydia, now the wife of Elias Tipton, of this county; George, who is living in Pickaway county; Mary, wife of John Garbeson, of this county ; John and his twin sister Sarah, the latter now tlie wife of Oliver Orden, of Pleasant township; Lottie, wife of John Colver, of Pickaway county; and Hattie, wife of Peter Ralston, of Hardin county, Ohio.

John Bartlett was born on the old T. J. Adams farm in Jackson township May 19, 1845, and has spent his entire life in Franklin county. He attended the district schools until sixteen years' of age, and during the months of vacation assisted his father in the work of the farm. He was twenty-two years of age at the time of his father's death. He remained with his mother until twenty-seven years of age and was then married, in 1873, to Miss Jane Richardson, who was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, in 1851, a daughter of Isaac and Catherine (Van Dene) Richardson. The young couple began their domestic life upon a rented farm, upon which they lived until 1885, when Mr. Bartlett purchased ten acres of land in Jackson township, making his home thereon until 1895. In that year he purchased his present farm, comprising seventy-two acres of good land in PkasaTit towniship, and to its development and cultivation he now untiringly devotes his efforts.

The marriage of our subject and his wife has been blessed with nine children: Clara, now the wife of Charles Hill, of Columbus; Scott, who married Nora Conner and is living in Hardin county; Albert, of Chicago, Illinois; Charles, of Hornsburg, Ohio, who married Ora Leath; Daisy, who is living in llornsburg; Mary Catli^rine, at home; Lettie Pearl, Roy and Anna May, who are at school, in his political affiliations Mr. Bartlett is a stalwart Democrat. His life has been one of marked industry and all that he has is the reward of his owai labor. Depending entirely upon his own efforts he has worked hisi way to a position among the substantial farmers of the community.

Cotton H. Allen

In the death of the honored subject of this memoir there passed away another member of that little group of distinctively representative business men who were the pioneers in inaugurating and building up the chief industries of the western middle states. His name is familiar not alone to the residents of the city to whose development he coutributed so conspicuously, but also to all that have been in the least intimately informed as to the history of the state. He was identified with this section of the Union throughout the greater part of his life and contributed to its material progress and prosperity to an extent equaled by but few of his contemporaries. Few hves furnish so striking an example of the wise application of sound principles and safe conservatism as does his. The story of his success is short and simple, containing no exciting chapters ; but in it lies one of the most valued secrets of the great prosperity which it records ; and his private and business life are pregnant with interest and incentive, no matter how lacking in dramatic action, - the record of a noble life, consistent with itself and itsi jDossibilities in every particular.

Cotton Hayden Allen was born in Auburn, New York, in 1834, the son of Carrington Allen, wlio died in 1864. The father was a native of Schenectady, New York, and when he had arrived at the years of maturity he married Miss Martha Hayden, a sister of Peter Hayden, who established a foundry andi hardw^are store that are still in operation in Columbus and who through the exercise of his splendid business and executive powers became one of the wealthiest men in Ohio. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Allen was celebrated in the Empire state, and in 1889, several years after his wife's decease, he came to Ohio and resided in Columbus for a short time, occupying the responsible position of general manager of Mr. Hayden's large interests. His sister, Mrs. Sarah McCallip, remained in Columbus with her uncle, Mr. Hayden, and is still a resident of this city. She became the wife of Patrick McCallip, who was also associated in business with Mr. Hayden as foreman of one of the departments in the roller mills. He afterward moved to Portsmouth, where he died in i860, leaving a son, William McCallip, who has attained prominence as a singer. Another son, Charles Hayden McCallip, was for eisrhteen years engaged in business in St. Louis, representing Mr. Havden. There were also two daughters in the McCallip family: Mrs. Mary Tremaine. the wife of H. H. Tremaine, and Mrs'. Harry B. Fern.

education in the public schools of Haydenville, Massachusetts, where he was an industrious student. Throughout his life he manifested the spirit of industry, realizing that it is the most important element in success, also contributing in a large measure to life's happiness. He started out for himself as an indentured apprentice in a cotton mill, where he received his board, clothing and fifty cents each month. He worked from seven o'clock in the morning until five o'clock in the evening. He was thus employed for four years, during which time he manifested marked faithfulness to the interests of the house he represented. His business ability, keen discrimination and unflagging energy attracted the attention of his uncle, Peter Hayden, who at that time was conducting a large saddlery and hardware business in New- York. He offered his nephew a position of trust in the New York house. This was accepted and Mr. Allen continued to work there uninterruptedly until the time of the Civil war.

When hostilities were inaugurated between the north and the south Mr. Allen was a member of the Seventy-first Regiment of the New York Militia, and his patriotic spirit prompted his enlistment, but 'duty called him into other fields. "Some must work that others may fight," and this was the lot which fell to Mr. Allen. When told that the government was practically without equipment for cavalry and artillery, and that an urgent demand had been made upon the house of Peter Hayden to furnish these supplies, and that his services were indispensable at this critical time, Mr. Allen, in the unostentatious manner that always characterized him, put aside his own ambitions and hurried forward the w^ork. It is doubtful whether any one but a boy, eager to take part in the greatest military drama of the age, could appreciate the sacrifice made by the lad, who, in order that the cavalry o£ the United States might be better equipped for military service, relinquished his own dreams and remained quietly in the background despite boyish enthusiasm. It w^as one of those quiet victories over self that develop character. Continuing in his uncle's employ, Mr. Allen mastered the business in all of its departments and was given charge of Mr. Hayden's interests in his branch houses which were established in San; Francisco, Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit and other points. Thus his time was fully occupied in the m.'inag'ement of work which involved many millions of dollars annually. Mr. Hayden died in 1887 and Mr. Allen was made one of his executors, superintending the interests of the estate until his own death. In business circles he sustained a most enviable reputation, for over the record of his life there fell no shadow of wrong nor suspicion of evil. He was notably prompt and reliable, never making an engagement that he did not meet, nor incurring an obligation which he did not fill.

In 1 86 1 Mr. Allen w^as united in marriage to Mrs. Louise Llatthews. Two children were born of their union, but both died in infancy, and Mrs. Allen passed away in 1887, leaving a daughter, Mrs. Schumacher, by her former husband. She is now a resident of San Francisco. In the year 18S9 Mr. Allen determined to make Columbus his permanent home and con- tinned his residence in that city until his life's labors were ended, having charge of the extensive concerns over which Mr. Hayden had control and of which he was the owner. These included a bank and a hardware store, and of the former Mr. Allen became the vice-president. In commercial life he was known throughout the United States and wherever known was recognized as a man of exalted and uncompromising integrity. He made muchl money, but he gave as liberally as he made. He was a philanthropist in the true spirit of that term and his benefactions were numerous and large, yet in all of his giving he was unostentatious. He had a strict regard for the ethical relations of life, was a student of the sociological problems and in his career exemplified his belief in the brotherhood of mankind. He never sought political preferment, but Columbus honored him with election to the ofiEice of mayor in 1895, recognizing his superior fitness for the position. As his friends and constituents believed, his administration was business-like and practical and proved of great benefit to the city, promoting its material interests and introducing many needed reforms and improvements along various lines. He passed away January 26, 1900, at the age of sixty-five years, and upon his monument might be fittingly inscribed the epitaph, "An honest man is the noblest work of God."

Harvey Coit

Among the prominent capitalists of the city of Columbus, Ohio, is the esteemed subject of the present review. Harvey Coit is a native of the state of Massachusetts, born in Norwich, now Huntington. Hampshire county, July 31, 1819, a son of Harvey and Nancy (Stone) Coit. His father was born in the same county and state, in 1794, was a farmer by occupation, and died in Columbus, Ohio, in 1877. The mother was a native of Worthington, Hampshire county, Massachusetts, and lived until 1867. She was the daughter of John Stone, of the same state, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, as was also Isaac Coit, the paternal grandfather of our subject. The Coit family originally carn^e to America from Wales and were among the first settlers in New England.

Our subject, Harvey Coit, is the only survivor of his parents' family of eight children, seven of whom lived to maturity. He was reared a farmer boy and assisted his father on the farm until his seventeenth year, when he came to Columbus and became a clerk in the store of Stone, Kelton & Company. Mr. Coit was one of the sensible class of young men who realize that the good things of life do not come without efTort, and he bravely started, resolving to do his best, although his salary for the first year amounted only to fifty dollars. The second year yielded a salary of seventy-five dollars, while liis third year of service brought him one hundred dollars and a reward for faithful work by his admission into the firm as' a partner, the firm name continuing the same. Mr. Coit remained several years in this connection, only leaving it to open a business of his own, starting a general store on the

The business house of Mr. Coit had become a landmark, but he desired to turn his attention to brokerage and real estate, his own holdings having become numerous and valuable. His possessions have increased, and many of the most desirable buildings and dwellings ini the city are owned by him,