Columbus City (part 8 of 57)

Mr. Coe was again married December 16, 1875, his second union being with Mrs. Ahiiira Winterbotham, by whom he had two children: Erwin L., deceased ; and one who died in infanc}^ unnamed. Mrs. Coe's first husband was John Winterbotham, and to them were born two children : Johnetta and one who died in infancy. Her father, Francis La Chapelle, was born near Montreal, Canada, in 1814, and was a molder by trade. He was a member of the Christian church, and fraternally was a charter member of Columbus Lodge, No. 9, L O. O. F. His death occurred September 10, 1844. In New York state he married Eleanor Ward, and they became the parents of three children : Eleanor, Almira and Frances. For her second husband the mother married William Say, now deceased, but she is still living, at the age of eighty-two years.

Mr. Coe is one of the representative and popular citizens of his community, and has been called upon to serve as township trustee for eight years. Since casting his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln in i860 he has never wavered in his allegiance to the Republican party, and, as every true American citizen should, he takes an active interest in public affairs. In religious belief he is a Universalist, while his wife holds membership in the Congregational church of North Columbus. They are widely and favorably known and have a host of warm friends in the community where they reside.

Daniel J. Ryan

Daniel J. Ryan was born at Cincinnati, January i, 1855. His father, John Ryan, and his mother, Honora Ryan, were born in Ireland and came to this country about 1850 and settled in Cincinnati. They afterwards removed to Portsmouth, Ohio, where young Ryan received his education in the public schools, passing through all the grades'. He was graduated at the high school in 1875. For a year before leaving school he was entered as a law student jn the office of Judge James W. Bannon, where he continued his studies after graduating. In February, 1877, he was admitted to the bar by the supreme court at Columbus.

He at once commenced practice alone at Portsmouth, and in the follow^- ing April was elected city solicitor; was re-elected in 1879, serving until the spring of 1881. In 1883 he was elected a member of the Ohio house of representatives, and w^as re-elected in 1885. During this service he was speaker pro tern, and chairman of the committee on public works. At the expiration of his legislative duties he resumed practice. In 1888 he was elected secretary of the state of Ohio, and in 1890 wasi re-elected for a second term. He resigned this ofiice, however, in 1891 to accept the appointment of commissioner-in-chief for Ohio of the World's Columbian Exposition, the duties of which required his services until May, 1894. While secretary of state he as'sisted in the compilation of Smith & Benedict's edition of the Revised Statutes of Ohio. He has since been engaged in the practice of law at Columbus. He has always been a Republican; was the first president of the Ohio

Dahiel J. Ryan

For ten years Mr. Ryan has been one of the trustees of the Ohio Historical Society He was appointed by the Exhibitors' Association at the W orld s Fair as one of the commissioners to the Antwerp Exposition in i894- Lie was appointed by Governor McKinley as a delegate to the National Water Ways Convention, which met at Vicksburg in 1894. At the present tune he is the president of the Ohio Canal Association.

Mr Ryan is well and favorably known throughout the state as a man ot hiffh character and a lawyer of ability. He has been identified with many important cases in Ohio which have attracted general attention both m and out of the state, among which might be mentioned the case touching the con- .stitutionality of the abandonment of the Hocking canal and litigation relating to the food department of the state.

On the loth day of January, 1884, ^Ir. Ryan was married to ^iyra L. Kerr, of Portsmouth, and by this union five children were born, two of whom are living, - Julia E. and Elinor.

John Pfeifer

It is always interesting to note the advance of one who has spent his entire life in a single locality. It is said that a prophet is never without honor save in his own country, and yet it will be found that the American people are willing to accord recognition for the possession of those qualities^ which insure progress and contribute toward success. Although Mr. Pfeifer has spent his entire life in Columbus, he is accounted one of the enterprising business men of the city and well merits his prosperity.

He was born in 1859. a son of Mathias Pfeifer, a native of Bavaria, Germanv, in which country he was reared and educated. He there learned the tailoring trade, but hoping to better his financial condition in the new world he sailed for America about 1840, and followed his chosen vocation in Columbus. He was one of the first German Republicans in the city, casting his ballot in support of that party when only six of his nationality voted the ticket. When the country became engaged in civil war he joined the Union army and loyally aided in the defense of the stars and stripes. He died in 1865, from the effects of exposure in the service, and his wife passed away in 1862, leaving five children.

John Pfeifer acquired his literarv education in the schools of his native citv,'and afterward attended the Columbus Business College. At the age of 'thirteen he began learning a trade, and in 1886 commenced business on liis own account, in connection with George D. Saas. The firm is still in business and has a large jobbing trade in all lines. Their patronage is very extensive, and thus their income is annually augmented.

In his political afi^liations Mr. Pfeifer is an active Democrat. He was appointed one of the first directors of the Columbus workhouse by Mayor

Allen in 1895, for a term of four years, but resigned in 1897, and was appointed by Mayor Black on the board of elections for a four-years term. He is still serving in that capacity, the board 1)eing in control of the elections of the city.

Socially Mr. Pfeifer is connected with the Masonic and Knights of Pythias fraternities, and in the latter has served as a representative to the grand lodge. He is a past grand in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belongs to the Red Men and the Elks, and is the president of the Olentangy Club, the leading social organization in the state. In manner Mr. Pfeifer is courteous and genial, and his social disposition, his sterling qualities and well-known reliability have made him a popular resident of Columbus. He wedded Miss Mary F. Zengler, a native of this city and a daughter of ]Matthew and Catherine Zengler, of Germany. They now have two children: Carl Matthew and Walter Adam.

Joseph Watson Tipton

Among the veterans of the Civil war now representing the farming interests of Franklin county is Joseph Watson Tipton, who resides in Prairie township. He is of English lineage and the family was founded in America at an early day. His paternal grandfather, Joseph Tipton, was a native of Shenandoah county, Virginia, where he died. He was married in Monroe county, that state, and for many years resided there. His wife, Mrs. Rebecca Tipton, passed away in Franklin county, Ohio.

Joseph Tipton, the father of our subject, was born in Shenandoah county, Virginia, whence he went to Monroe county. West Virginia, where he was reared to manhood, early becoming familiar with the work of the farm. His educational privileges were somewhat limited, but his experience made him a practical business man. He was married, in Monroe county, to Miss Catherine Watson, who was born in Virginia, a daughter of George Watson. They began their domestic life in West Virginia, where five children were born to them, and in 1848 they came to Ohio, settling in Perry township, Franklin county, near the present site of Marble Cliff. The father rented land for a short time and afterward removed to Jackson township. His death occurred in the town of West Jefferson, Madison county, Ohio, in 1886, but his widow is still living, in her eighty-sixth year, her home being on Fifth avenue, in Columbus. She holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, with which Mr. Tipton was also identified. In his political affiliations he was first a Whig, afterward becoming a Republican. He had twelve children, namely: Mary, who died in childhood; William, who died at the age of twenty-three years; Joseph W., of this review; Amanda, now the wife of Charles Huff,' of Columbus ; Isaac, of Columbus, who served in the Ninth Ohio Cavalry during the Civil war; Nancy, the wife of Alonzo Horrington, of Barbertown, Ohio ; Elias, who is living in Columbus ; Charles, who makes his home in Indianapolis; Frances, wife of Lawrence Stone, of Columbus; Margaret, wife of Thomas Johnson, of Kansas; George, who was a member of the One Hundred and Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died in the hospital at Cincinnati, in 1865 ; and John, who is living in Illinois.

Joseph W. Tipton, whose name forms the caption of this sketch, was born in Monroe county. West Virginia, December 31, 1839, and in 1848, when a lad of nine summers, accompanied his parents to Ohio. He began his education in the subscription schools of his native place and completed his studies in Franklin county, at the age of eighteen. In the early spring time he assisted in the plowing and planting of the fields and later bore his part in the work of harvesting the crops. After the inauguration of the Civil war, prompted by a spirit of patriotism, he enlisted in the ranks at the call of the president, joining the army at Columbus as a private of Company B, Fiftyfourth Ohio Infantry, for three years' service. He was under command of Captain Williams and Colonel Thomas Kilby Smith, and went to Camp Dennison, near Cincinnati, where he remained for five months, when the regiment was ordered to Paducah, Kentucky. The first engagement in which he participated was the battle of Shiloh, and this was followed by the siege of Corinth and the battle of Memphis. They next went down the river with General Sherman, the army attacking Vicksburg upon the Yazoo Bluffs. With his command he afterward proceeded on a march through Arkansas, across the Kansas line. The Union troops succeeded in capturing Fort Gibson, and then made their way to Vicksburg, on the Louisiana side. That winter they were engaged in digging General Grant's canals, after which they proceeded to Hard Times Landing and then marched against Jackson, Mississippi, capturing the city; moving on toward the rear o'f Vicksburg. While en route they participated in the battles of Champion Hills and Big Black river, and then began the siege of Vicksburg, on the 19th of May, 1863. A charge was made, but they could not get inside of the fortifications, and again on the 22d a charge was made. Both days the Union troops were forced to fall back and they then settled down to besiege the city, continuing the siege for forty-four days, when the strong central southern city surrendered. \\'hile the Union troops were engaged in the siege Joe Johnston with his Confederate troops approached in the rear, and when Vicksburg had fallen they engaged them in battle, winning the victory. This encounter occurred at Jackson. Mr. Tipton with his command was afterward in camp at Black river and then went to Vicksburg, proceeding up the Mississippi to Memphis and across the country to Chattanooga, participated in the engagement at Mission Ridge and on to Knoxville, where they raised the siege. Returning thence to Chattanooga, they were afterward in camp at Larkinsville. Alabama. At that place Mr. Tipton re-enlisted as a veteran and returned home on a thirty days' furlough. When the leave of absence had expired he rejoined his command in ]\Iarch, 1864, and started on the Atlanta campaign, being under fire for more than one hundred davs. From Atlanta the Union troops followed Hood back to within sixty miles of Chattanooga, thence returned to Atlanta and prepared for the march to the sea, which has become memorable in history. The troops Avere engaged in battle at Fort McAllister, marched through South Carolina and North Carolina, participating in the battle at Averysboro and then followed Johnston to Raleigh, where that Confederate commander surrendered. With his regiment Mr. Tipton proceeded to Washington and participated in the grand review, after which he was sent to Louisville. Wdien General Hazen volunteered to go to Texas to quell the disturbances Mr. Tipton accompanied him, and after some time spent in the northern portion of the Lone Star state, proceeded to Little Rock, Arkansas, where he was discharged August 15, 1865. He returned home with the rank of sergeant. At Arkansas Post he was wounded in the left foot by a musket ball and a piece of shell also struck him in the head on the 22d of July, 1864, in front of Atlanta. On the same day he narrowly escaped being taken prisoner. He was always found at his post of duty loyally defending the cause in which he believed and his bravery was displayed on many a southern battle-field. After his return to the north Mr. Tipton resumed farming and has since devoted his energies to the cultivation of his land. He was united in marriage, June 10, 1866. to Miss Mary Ann Allegre, a daughter of Lorenzo D. Allegre, deceased. Seven children have been born unto them, four yet living : Myron and William, who are living in Brown township; Katie, wife of Alva Alwood; and Leroy' at home. At the time of their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Tipton took up their abode on the land which was rented from her father, and in 1879 our subject purchased his present farm, comprising a large and valuable tract of ninety-six acres. This is under a high state of cultivation, being well improved with substantial buildings and all modern accessories. Mr. Tipton gives his attention exclusively to agricultural pursuits and at the same time he is also true and faithful to his duties of citizenship as when he wore the blue and followed the stars and stripes on the battle-fields of the south.

One of the most attractive homes of Columbus is occupied by William Headley, a retired farmer, whose labors in former years brought him a handsome competence, and thus he is enabled to enjoy a well merited rest. He was born August 12, 1827, on the farm in Jefferson township that is now occupied by his brother, Daniel Headley, his parents being William and Mary (Havens) Headley. His grandfather, Joseph Headley, was a native of Sussex county, Virginia, and when he came to Ohio he cast in his lot with the pioneer settlers of Franklin county. There were only two grocery stores in Columbus and visits to the city were made on horseback, the way lying through the woods. No mads had been made and the path was marked by blazed trees. In pioneer times \\'illiam Headley, the father of our subject.

purchased two acres of land at the corner of High and Broad streets, but some years later sold it and through the dishonesty of the purchaser was swindled out of the money. He was reared in his parents' home and in early life acquired eighteen hundred dollars by cutting wood and burning charcoal. In 181 1 he came west to Ohio and selected a location in Jefferson township, after which he returned to Sussex county with some horses. In the spring of 1812 he came to this state and located at what is now Headley's Corners. He erected a grist and saw^mill, and as he needed assistance in the operation of the industry he admitted his brother Samuel to a partnership in the business. They carried on operations for several years, after which William Headley purchased his brother's interest and Samuel removed to Licking county, Ohio.

William Headley, of this review, received such educational privileges as the common schools afforded. It was his intention to go to California in the spring of 1850, his father having promised to send Him, but the cholera epidemic was so great that his father believed it unwise for the son to make the trip. In the spring of 1852. when he had accumulated enough money of his OAvn to accomplish the journey, \\'illiam Headley started across the plains for the gold fields, leaving home on the 24th of April and arriving at his destination on the 26th of August. He landed at Eureka. California, whence he went to Poor Man's creek and to Hopkins' creek, spending the first year at those places. He finally located at Biddle's Bar, wliere he was taken ill with typhoid fever. After ele\'en weeks he resumed work, but soon had a relapse and was again in bed for six weeks. In the :Spring of 1853 he drove some pack animals across to the east branch of the north fork of Feather river. He also cut five hundred logs at Biddle's Bar, but the rainy season was late that year and he therefore abandoned them. In July, 1855, he returned to Ohio with twenty-eight hundred dollars, which he had accumulated. The journey to his old home was made by water. The year following his return, accompanied by his parents, he went to Lucas county, Iowa, on a trip, and there he purchased five hundred and ten acres of land, with the intention of locating there.

On the 27th of November, 1855. ]\Ir. Headley was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Beem, a native of Licking county, Ohio, born April 7. 1 83 1, her parents being John and Margaret ( Albery) Beem, who came from New Jersey to Ohio in an early day. ]\Irs. Headley objected to removing to Iowa, and our subject therefore purchased fifty acres of land lying north of his father's farm. He next traded his Iowa land for one hundred and fifty acres east of his fifty-acre lot, and still later added the fifty acres that lay between his two tracts. At his father's deatli he inherited fi+tv acres, so that his landed possessions aggregated three hundred acres. This was operated under his management for some years and became one of tlie best improved properties in the county. He was very successful in his farming and stock-raising interests and made a specialty of the raising of sheep, for which he found a ready sale upon the market. In 1883 he retired from active business life and purchased residence property on Garheld avenue, in Columbus, where he remained for six years. He then traded his farm property for his present valuable residence on East Rich street. In 1885 he erected a brick building at the corner of High and Eleventh avenue, and his various realty holdings bring to him an excellent return.

On the i8th of October, 1875. ^-^i'- Headley was called upon to mourn the lossi of his wife, who died leaving three children. George, now an agriculturist of Licking county ; Amanda R.. the wife of William T. Foster, a mining operator of Joplin, Missouri; and Margaret L.. at home. She superintends the household for her father, and the home is one of the attractive residences of Columbus. ]\Ir. Headley is a believer in the Universalist doctrine, but does not hold membership in any church, although he has made many liberal contributions to the support of religious work. He espouses the cause of the Democracy, keeps well informed on the political issues and has served for about four terms as trustee of Jefferson township, while for several years he filled the office of school director. As an energetic, upright and conscientious business man he acquired a handsome competence and by patient striving worked out for himself a solid reputation as a successful agriculturist. His record both public and private has been marked by the strictest integrity and faithfulness to every trust reposed in him, and he is widely known as an honorable gentleman and as a pleasant social companion.

Americus S. Hager

Franklin county has many well-to-do and successful farmers who are the architects of their own fortunes and have been prominently identified with the upbuilding and development of this section of the state. Among these is the subject of this personal history, who now owns and operates a good farm in Norwich township.

The paternal ancestors of our subject were from the Green Mountain state. His grandfather, Daniel Hager, was born at the foot of Bald mountain, near Montpelier, Vermont, and married a INIiss Baldwin, also a native of that state. He served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and in 1820 brought his family to Ohio, locating where Plain City now stands, when the Indians were still quite numerous in that locality. He was one of the pioneers of that region, and his home was the usual log cabin of those early days. Plain City now stands upon a part of what was his farm.

John Baldwin Hager, the father of our subject, was born in Vermont in 1820, and was taken by his parents to Ohio during infancy. He grew up in the wilderness and aided his father in the arduous task of clearing and improving the farm. The Indians would often come to the home and take his sister Octavia to their village to play with the Indian children. On reaching manhood he married Miss Sarah Clark, and for a time remained upon the home farm, but later located on a farm two and a half miles up the creek on the opposite side of that stream. Being a wild, w^ooded tract, he erected a sawmill and engaged in the manufacture of lumber from the timber on his own land. He died in 1852, having survived his wife but one week. To them were born three children: Gelucius, deceased; Amanda, the wife of William Harper, of Hilliards; and Americus S., our subject.

The last named was born on the old homestead in Jerome township, Union county, November 10, 1847, ai^<^l ^^'^s not quite five years of age when his parents died, while his brother was but fifteen and sister thirteen. The home being broken up, the farm was sold and our subject and sister went to live with an uncle for three years, at the end of which time his uncle bound him out to James Smith Britton, of Norwich township, Franklin county, until fourteen years of age. He was able to attend school but very little, though his training at farm work was not so meager. On leaving the home of Mr. Britton he joined his brother in Union county, and remained with him until the latter entered the army. After his death our subject returned to the home of Mr. Britton, for whom he continued to work a couple of 3'ears.

:\Ir. Hager was then married, in April, 1871, to Miss Jennie Baker, and to them have been born six children : Albert, a resident of Hilliard's ; Amanda, the wife of George Fisher; Rosie, wife of David Cox; Rilla, at home; and Charles and Elmer, both deceased.

After his marriage Mr. Hager rented Mr. Britton's farm near Hilliard's for two years, and then w^as on another farm of that gentleman for the same length of time. The following seven years were spent upon Mr. Britton's home farm, and at the end of that time he purchased seventy-eight acres of land in Scioto tow^nship, Pickaway county, Ohio, which he sold after residing thereon for four years. He next bought two hundred and eight acres in partnership with ]\Ir. Britton, and erected a house thereon, but a year later sold that place and purchased an adjoining tract of one hundred and fifty-three acres, making it his home for four years. On disposing of that property he bought his present farm of thirty-two acres in Norwich township, and is now successfully engaged in truck farming.

]\Ir. Hager is a very intelligent and well informed man, and a good talker on all political questions, especially on free silver. He is an ardent supporter of the Democratic party, and takes an active interest in public affairs.

]\Irs. John Clapham. one of the highly esteemed residents of Blendon township, bore the maiden name of Harriet Nutt and was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, February 25, 1828, a representative of one of the old pioneer families of the state. Her parents were Edward and Allie (Coe) Nutt.

Her fatlier was l)orn in or near Winchester, Virginia, in 1789, and dnring his boyhood accompanied his father to Muskingum county, Ohio, where he was reared. After attaining to man's estate he was married and in 1833 came to Frankhn county, where he purchased one hundred and thirty acres of land just north of the Clapham farm in Blendon township, and, with the exception of a short period spent in Delaware county, Ohio, in his later life, he continued to make his home in Franklin county until called to his final rest, on the 30th of August, 1873, ^vhen in his eighty-fourth year. While he was never associated by membership with any church, he was a constant attendant on the services of the Baptist church and contributed liberally to its support. His life was in harmony with the principles of upright manhood; in all his dealings he was strictly fair, and for his many sterling qualities he was highly respected. His wife was born near Baltimore, Maryland, May 23, 1803, and when six years of age accompanied her parents on their removal to Virginia, the family settling near Charleston. Five years later they took up their abode near Zanesville, Ohio, where Mrs. Nutt attained her womanhood. On the 20th of May, 1823, she gave her hand in marriage to Edward Nutt, and through a long period they traveled life's journey together. In 1834 she united with the Baptist church and throughout the remaining years of her life she was a consistent and active member of that denomination. She departed this life April 4, 1890, in her eighty-seventh year. This worthy couple became the parents of ten children, but only three are now living, namely : Rebecca, the widow of Alfred McLeod, of Delaware county, Ohio ; Mrs. Clapham; and Elizabeth, the wife of William Beever, also of Delaware county.

Harriet Xutt spent her girlhood days under the parental roof and acquired her education in the common schools. On the 26th of May, 1853, she became the wife of John Clapham. He was a native of Blendon township, born on the 28th of April, 1829, on what is now known as the Osborne farm, near Alum creek. The following year his parents removed to the farm now owned by William C. Goldsmith, and in connection with the sketch of the latter appears an account of the life record of the parents of Mr. Clapham, who grew to manhood and were married in this locality. He and his wife began their domestic life upon the farm wdiere the family yet reside. This place comprised ninety-three acres and was purchased by his grandfather, Joseph Clapham, being then known as the old Landon farm. Subsequently the grandfather willed it to John Clapham and it remained his home up to the time of his demise, on the 12th of January, 1879, and has since been the place of residence of his wadow and children. During his active business career, however, Mr. Clapham added to the farm a tract of ten acres, and after his death his widow purchased an adjoining thirty acres, so that the place now comprises one hundred and thirty-three acres. Thev were the parents of four children : Orlena, now the widow of DeWitt Gates, of Blendon township; Rosetta, at home; Edward C, a farmer of Blendon township, who married Miss Olive Gates and has five children; and Clayton H., who operates the home farm and who married Nettie Martin, by whom he has two children.

In his political views Mr. Clapham was an ardent Republican, and although he never sought office or political honors for himself he believed firmly in the principles of the party and did all in his power to promote its growth and insure its success. He was one of the most highly esteemed men of the county. His life history contains no exciting chapters, but was one consistent with many principles, and thus to his family he left the priceless heritage of an untarnished name. Mrs. Clapham still resides on the old homestead. She has long been a resident of the county and has many warm friends throughout this portion of the state.

Franklin Rubrecht

In no case is there a career more open to talent than in that of the law, and in no field of endeavor is there demanded a more careful preparation, a more thorough appreciation of the absolute ethics of life, or of the underlying principles which form the basis of all human rights and privileges. Unflagging application and intuitive wisdom and a determination to fully utilize the means at hand, are the concomitants which insure personal success and prestige in this great profession, which stands as the stern conservator of justice; and it is one into which none shouM enter without a recognition of the obstacles to be overcome and the battles to be won, for success does not perch on the falchion of every person who enters the competitive fray, but comes only as the diametrical result of capability and unmistakable ability. Possessing all the qualities of the able lawyer, Franklin Rubrecht is already winning marked success in his profession. He is yet a young man and the future undoubtedly has in store for him a very successful career.

A native of Ohio, Mr. Rubrecht was born in Delaware, August 31, 1867, his. parents being Joel and Priscilla Helen Rubrecht. The father was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1839, upon a farm, and followed agricultural pursuits throughout his residence in the Keystone state. With his family he removed to Delaware, Ohio, and there became a contractor, builder and architect. He has since been actively identified with the improvement of the city along building lines and many substantial structures there stand as monuments to his enterprise, diligence and thrift. His wife, who was born in Delaware county, Ohio, in 1842. died in 1894. She was the mother of three sons and one daughter, all of whom lived to years of maturity.

Franklin Rubrecht, whose name forms the caption of this sketch, attended the public schools of his native town and was graduated at the high school, after which he pursued a commercial course in Professor Sharp's Business College, in Delaware. In 1884 he arrived in Columbus and became a student of law in the office of R. H. Piatt, an attorney of this citv, who directed his reading for some time. He also acquired a knowledge of telegraphy and was employed by the Western Union Telegraph Company, acting as an operator in Columbus for a considerable period. This gave him the funds necessary to continue his legal education, and in October, 1892, he completed the law course in the Ohio State University. He then began the practice of his profession. He was appointed assistant director of law, and by virtue of that office became prosecuting attorney of the police department, serving acceptably in that position until 1897. He received his appointment from Judge Owen, who at that time was director of law, and was appointed by and served under Mayor Black until 1899. Retiring from that position, he resumed the active practice of law and has figured in several very important cases. In December, 1899, he was elected the attorney for the Columbus Humane Society. On the 9th of April Mr. Rubrecht was appointed first assistant director of law by Hon. Luke G. Byrne, director of law under Mayor John N. Hinkle. This position is perhaps the most important one in the law department, since it fallS' to the lot of the first assistant to conduct all the litigation in which the city of Columbus is interested.

On the 1 8th of September, 1894, Mr. Rubrecht wedded Miss Blanch Xewell, of Columbus, a lady of culture and refinement and a daughter of O. H. Newell. One child graces this marriage, namely, Mercedes. In his political affiliations Mr. Rubrecht is a Democrat, and has been twice elected chairman of the congressional committee of the twelfth district of Ohio. He possesses a laudable ambition, without which effort would be fruitless and labor of no avail. In his legal practice he is favorably known for the care with w^hich he prepares his- cases and for his devotion to his clients' interests.

Daniel Elliott

Daniel Elliott, now deceased, was a man of marked perseverance and strong force of character, and though he started out in life empty-handed at the early age of fourteen years at the time of his death he was the possessor of a handsome property, all acquired through his own well directed efforts. He w^as a grandson of James Elliott, who was born and reared in Sherman Valley, Pennsylvania. He married Jean Hart. During the w^ar of the Revolution he fought for the independence of the nation and in compensation for his services was afterward granted by the government sixteen hundred acres of land in Norwich township, Franklin county. He never settled on that tract, however, but lived and died at the place of his nativity, wdiere his wife also passed away. The following is the record of their children : Robert, the father of our subject, w^as the eldest. William located south of Piqua in Miami county, Ohio, and there spent his remaining days. James took up his abode in Hancock county, Ohio, where he remained until called to his final rest. John, who was an Indian agent for many vears, lived and died in Wapakoneta, Ohio. Sally married a cousin, ]\Ir. Elliott, and died near Wapakoiieta, leaving an infant son, Thomas. The father engaged an Indian woman to act as nurse for the baby and when he grew older he ran away from home and joined the Indian tribe of which his former nurse was a member. Betsy became ]\Irs. William Nelson and died at Greenfield, Highland county, Ohio.

Robert Elliott, father of our subject, was born in 1774, in Sherman's Valley, Perry county, Pennsylvania, and was there reared to manhood on a farm. He married Nancy Black, also a native of the same locality, and soon afterward they started for Ohio, locating at Hillsboro, where they remained for about four years. They then located on a farm of two hundred and sixtyseven acres in Norwich township, Franklin county, which was a part of the government grant to his father. He built a log cabin in the midst of the forest on the banks of the Scioto river by a large spring, but the land was low and wet and produced ague ; so he built a house on higher ground on the west side of the Dublin pike, making his home there until his' death. He was a hard-w^orking man and became prosperous. For fifteen years he served as justice of the peace, capably filling that office. By his first marriage he had six children: James, who died in Columbus; William, who died in Iowa; Robert, who died in Champaign county, Ohio; George, who departed this life in Franklin' county; Nancy, who married Bigelow Spain, and died in Champaign county, Ohio ; and Polly, who became the wife of Jacob Vorhees and died in Illinois. After the death of his first wife the father married Susan Brunk, a native of Maryland and a daughter of Daniel and Margaret (Grace) Brunk, also natives of that state. She was four years old when she accompanied her parents to Ohio, the family locating in Washington township, Franklin county, where she grew to womanhood among the Indians. The children of Mr. Elliott's second marriage were Sally, the wife of Tillman Sullivan, of Norwich township; Samuel, who died in Columbus; Margaret, the wife of Edson Aldrich. of Hardin county, Ohio; Eliza, the wife of Captain Imes, of Columbus: Jackson, who died at the Soldiers' Home in Sandusky, Ohio; Daniel; and David, of Norwich township.

Daniel Elliott was born in Norwich township, spent his early youth on the farm there and attended school through the winter months until fourteen years of age. He was only four years old when his father died. He remained with his' stepfather until fourteen years of age, when he went to live with his sister, Mrs. Sally Sullivan. He attended school only one winter after that. He became self-supporting at the age of fourteen, first earning his living by digging post-holes in connection with his brother David, at three cents per hole. He worked at anything he could get to do, husking corn, assisting in the harvest fields, or doing any kind of farm work that would yield him an honest living. He saved his money and when he was twenty-four years of age his grandfather, Daniel Brunk, gave him forty dollars. He inherited two acres of land from his father and from his brother

On the 6th of July, i860, Mr. Elhott had married Miss Sidney Wynkoop, who was born in Brown township, Frankhn county, September 20, 1843, ^ daughter of Strickland and Eliza (Sandy) Wynkoop. In 1850 her father removed to Louisa county, Iowa, going by way of Cincinnati. He accomplished part of the journey by taking passage on a steamboat to St. Louis. At the falls of the Ohio river the oldest son, James, fell overboard and the steamer backed up to rescue him, but he was struck by the vessel and sank to a watery grave. At. St. Louis, on account of an accident, they had to change boats, but ultimately arrived at Fort Louisa, Iowa, then a small place of six houses and one shop. They were three weeks on the water. After landing they proceeded by wagon to the Missouri river, crossed that stream on a ferry to Wapapello, and by wagon went four miles into the country. With a land warrant Mr. Wynkoop ^secured forty acres of prairie land and began the erection of a house. He had almost completed it when he was taken with ague, which developed into dropsy, and the other members of the family also became ill. Their two little children, twins, between three and four years of age, had to carry water for them. Another child was born and nine days later the mother died, leaving thirteen children. Mr. Wynkoop then sold his land and returned to Franklin county, Ohio, making his home with relatives while the children were scattered among families in this portion of Ohio. He died in 1882, at the age of ninety-one years, six months and six days.

Mrs. Elliott was only eleven years of age when she went out in the world to do a woman's work. For a year she lived with her sister. Mrs. Delilah Harrington, and then went to live with her grandfather, but he had married a second time and therefore she was not welcome there. She hired out to do house-work, providing entirely for her own support. Her education was acquired at intervals when she found opportunity to attend school. At the age of seventeen she gave her hand in marriage to Daniel Elliott, and to him she proved a faithful helpmate and companion on life's journey. In 1871 he purchased twenty-three and three-fourths acres of land adjoining the old Elliott homestead. Mrs. Elliott would bake, churn and cook and attend to all the household duties. Her husband would prepare the fields for cultivation and then she would go out to assist him, working: in the fields until dinner time, when she would return and get dinner and afterward again join her husband in the fields, where they w^ould work until dark. In 1876 thev purchased sixteen and three-quarters acres of the old homestead, and in 1882-3 added fourteen acres more, making a total of fiftv-seven and threefourths acre?'. To the cultivation and improvement of his land ]\Ir. Elliott devoted his energies untiring until his death.

Unto our subject and his wife were born the following children : Samuel Francis, born October i'4. i86r, died in infancy. Nettie Adeline, born April 16, 1865, was married, September 29, 18S6. to Elmer E. Shrum, and they have two children. - Ivan E. and Sidney Lester. Ida EHza, born November 29. 1866, is the wife of Ulysses Hoffman, who resides near Logansport, Indiana, and they have one child, Daniel Elliott.

When seventeen years of age Mr. Elliott, the subject of this review, was converted, joined the Methodist Episcopal church and lived an earnest Christian life. In politics he was a stanch Republican, but never sought or desired public ofitice. He was honest and conscientious in all his dealings and conrmanded the respect of all with whom he came in contact. He passed away December 21, 1891, esteemed by all who knew him. His widow still resides on the homestead farm, which sl>e assisted him to secure, and in the community she has many friends.

John Peiffier

Long a resident of Columbus and known as one of the reliable and enterprising citizens, John Peiffier certainly deserves representation in this volume. He was born in Little York. Pennsylvania, July 4, 1834, and was four years of age wdien he accompanied his father on his removal to Winchester, Ohio. They had been installed in their new home about a year when Jacob Peiffier, the father, was killed by a team of horses that ran over him. His w4fe, Mrs. Margaret Peiffier, was left with a family of small children. She afterward married Henry Herpst, at Winchester, and about 1844 the stepfather with the family came to Franklin county, locating on a farm three miles north of Columbus, and afterward removed to the city, where JMrs. Peiffier died in 1882.

The subject of this review continued upon the homestead farm in this county until he had attained his majority, when he removed to the city and for thirty-five years wa,& connected with the fire department, the period between 1855 and 1890. He was a well known figure among the members of the department and in the city, and his bravery was displayed on many occasions. It requires a spirit no less .fearless and resolute to fight the fiery element than to meet the enemy upon the field of battle, and, though there are periods of rest and quiet in the life of the fireman, there are also many times of great danger and excitement, when cool nerve and steady hands are needed. ]\Ieeting every requirement, Mr. Peiffier long continued in the service and rendered valued aid to the city in suppressing the chief element of destruction to life and property.

On the 3d of July, 1856. in the home of the bride on Mound street, in Columbus, i\Ir. Peiffier was united in marriage to Aliss Olive Pope, whose parents were among the honored pioneer settlers of the capital. Her father, John Pope, was born in New York, in 1786, and served during the war of 181 2. With his father he came to the west, settling in Ohio about the year 1823, and here he was married. From 1829 until 1844 he conducted a hotel at Hibernia, Franklin county, and in 1850 he took up his abode in Colum- bus, spending his remaining days in this city, his death occurring at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Miller, in 1862. His wife, Mrs. (Jettruda) Pope, died in the same year. Their children were : Mrs. Peiffier ; Henry, who was born in 1836 and died on his farm in Franklin county in 1875; Phoebe Ann, who married Phillip Dutoit, of Columbus, and died at their home east of the city; Mary Jane, who became the wife of William Lennox, who resides in Mattoon, Illinois, where her death occurred in 1898; Martha Pope, who became the wife of Gilbert Green and after his death married a Mr. Brown, who died in 1895, since which time she has been living with her daughter, Mrs. Helmbrech, on East Livingston street, Columbus; Caroline, who became the wife of Harvey O'Hara and died in 1870, her husband passing away in 1895, leaving one daughter; Mary, now the wife of James Brown, who is living on East Sixth street, Columbus; Harriet, the wife of Gideon Miller; John, who died soon after the Civil war; and Louisa, who passed away in 1844. The following is the record of the children born unto Mr. and Mrs. Peiffier: William, their eldest child, was born in 1857 and married Miss Tillie Brown, of New Britain, Connecticut, where they reside with their children, Grace, Jane, Lionel and Charles. Charles, the second son of Mr. and' Mrs. Peiffier, was born in 1859, is married and is engaged in the grocery business on Harrison avenue, Columbus; Jettonda was the wife of Joseph Davidson, the proprietor of the Columbus Iron Works, and their children were as follows, - Florence and Frank Davidson. Flora Belle, who was born in 1864, is the wife of Frank Smith and has five children, namely : Edgar, Hardy, Elizabeth, Franklin and Robert. Her death occurred in 1894. Her son Edgar, who was born in 1884, resides with his maternal grandparents. Nettie, the next member of the Peiffier family, is the wife of Edward Radcliffe, of Columbus, and their children are : Eva, Hazel and Margaret. Olive resides at home. Frederick married Miss Ada Tobin and resides on Second avenue.

Mr. and Mrs. Peiffier have resided at their present home through the past eighteen years. Their house occupies the site of the old sugar camp which was on his father's farm more than a half century ago. The family are all members of the Episcopal church, and Mr. Peiffier is numbered among the pioneer residents of Columbus, having witnessed much of the growth and development of the city as' it has emerged from a village into a thriving metropolitan center. His life has been a useful one, devoted to the welfare of his fellow men, and wherever he is known he is held in high regard.

Henry R. Hess

Prominent as a representative of the farming interests of Franklin county stands Henry R. Hess, an enterprising, practical and progressive agriculturist, whose labors are bringing to him desirable prosperity. He is the only child of Thomas INI. and Marv A. (Rutherford) Hess, who was born in

Centennial Biographical History. 2 1 5

Delaware county, Ohio, in the year 1850. His mother died when he was only eighteen days old, and he then resided with his grandparents in Delaware county until six years of age. He pursued his education in the district schools of Franklin county and remained upon the farm with his father until twenty-eight years of age, when he left the parental roof in order to establish a home of his own, securing as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Katie Reeb, a daughter of Henry Reeb, of Franklin county, the wedding being celebrated in 1879. Their marriage was blessed with two children, of whom one, Anna R., is still living. The mother died in January, 1890, and her loss was deeply mourned not only by her family but by many friends, for her womanly qualities and estimable characteristics, had gained her the warm friendship of those w^th whom she had been brought in contact.

Throughout his business career Mr. Hess has carried on agricultural pursuits and now owns and operates one hundred and fifty-two acres of rich land, all under cultivation and well improved with modern accessories. The richly tilled fields bring to him golden harvests, and the buildings upon his place stand as a monument to his enterprise and thrift. He is a man well and favorably known for his many good qualities and he takes an active interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community. He is a public spirited and wide-awake citizen, and in his life exempLfies the enterprise so characteristic of America.

Clinton W. Tusing

One of the successful and enterprising farmers and stock raisers of Franklin county is Clinton \\\ Tusing, of Truro township, who has one hundred and ninety-two acres in his homestead farm and also owns valuable property elsewhere. He was born in Violet township, Fairfield county, Ohio,' on the 24th of August, 1849, and is a son of Rev. G. N. Tusing. His education was acquired in the schools of his native county and he afterward engaged in teaching in Franklin and Fairfield counties for five years. He first began farming upon a forty-acre tract of land which he received from his father. He made all of the improvements upon the place, transformed it into a richly cultivated tract and afterward sold that property at a good advance in price. He then purchased the farm upon which he now resides and it has been his home for a quarter of a century. As he had to give possession of the old farm sooner than he had expected his house upon the new one had not then been completed and he therefore took up his abode in the barn until the residence was erected. It was finished in the year 1875, and in it his family were soon installed. As the years have gone by he has added to his place all the improvements and accessories of a model farm, and to-day his home place of one hundred and ninetj^-two acres is a very valuable tract, the well tilled fields yielding a golden tribute in return for his care and labor. He also owns a farm of one hundred and fiftv-one acres in Lick- ing county and he has three city lots in Cokimbus. He makes a specialty of raising polled Aberdeen Angus cattle, and his stock is of a fine grade and finds a ready sale on the market, thus materially increasing his income.

On the 1 6th of November, 1871, Mr. Tusing was united in marriage to Miss Hulda Roads, a daughter of Joseph Roads, who was a successful farmer living near Hebron, Licking county, Ohio. His wife bore the maiden name of Nancy Moore and was born near Newark, in Licking county, Ohio. They were the parents of eight children. Emily became the wife of Amor Smith, of Fairfield county, Ohio, and died in 1863. The others were: Mrs. Laura Stover ; Mrs. Rebecca Smith ; Mrs. Louise Tusing ; Jessie, deceased ; Hulda; IMrs. Anna Bretz; and Mrs. Lucinda Miller. The eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Tusing was born while they were living in a barn. They have become the parents of six children, three sons and three daughters, namely : George N., who aids in the operation of the home farm ; Ludo Lonzetta, who is a bookkeeper with the Consolidated Street Car Company of Columbus ; Myrtle Maud, who is a teacher in Jefferson township ; Lutie Gertrude ; and Ernest Clem and Edna Esther, w' ho are still with their parents,

Li his political affiliations Mr. Tusing is a Democrat on questions of national importance, but votes independently at township and county elections, nor has he sought office as a reward for allegiance to Democracy. His wife and two oldest daughters hold membership in the Primitive Baptist church and he contributes liberally to its support. He gives his aid and co-operation to all movements for the general good and' is an enterprising citizen. Li his business affairs he has manifested strong determination, unabating energy and industry, and thus he has been enabled to overcome all the difficulties and obstacles in his path and work his way steadily upward to success.

Throughout almost his entire life William Neiswender has made his home in Jackson township, this county, and has been prominently identified with its industrial and agricultural interests. His has been a long and useful career, and he well merits the high regard in which he is uniformly held.

He was born in Pennsylvania, on the 25th of May, 1818, and was only two years of age W'hen he removed to Knox county, Ohio, with his father, John Neisw^ender, a native of Pennsylvania. Subsequently the familv came to Franklin county and took up their residence in Jefferson township among its first settlers. Here the father purchased a tract of w^oodland, which he cleared and improved, his occupation being that of farming.

William Neiswender began his education in Jefferson township, his first teacher being Worthy Mitchem; but he was able to attend school only about two months during the year, the remainder of the time being employed in helping his father in clearing and cultivating the home farm. After attaining his majority he entered a select 'school, where he paid his own expenses by chopping wood mornings and evenings. When his education was com- pleted he worked as a blacksmith's striker for some time and then learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for fourteen years. Being the only carpenter in the neighborhood, in case of a death he was called upon to make coffins. After discontinuing work at the carpenter's trade, he bought the farm in Jackson township, which has now been his home for fifty-six years. His first residence was a log house of but one room, which has since been replaced by a modern and commodious residence. He has made many other improvements upon the place, and now has one of the best cultivated and most desirable farms of the locality.

On the 3d of November, 1842, Mr. Neiswender married Miss Polly Hoover, who was born in Jackson township, this county, February 4, 1823, and died in 1873, leaving six children, who are still living, namely: Levi, Catherine, Aaron, Ezra, Lydia and Julia. Mr. Neiswender also has twentytwo grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Through his own individual efforts Mr. Neiswender has becoms n well educated man, and can speak both English and German fluently. He has ever taken an active and commendable interest in educational affairs, has done his share toward it® advancement, and gave the land on which the first schoolhouse in his neighborhood was built. He served as clerk and treasurer of the school before they had a board of directors, and was afterward elected one of the directors. He is a life member of the Free Thought Federation, and is one of the most progressive and public-spirited citizens of his community, as well as one of its most honored' members. In the course of his life he has visited Florida four times and has brought back a fine collection of shells and other relics, and also has the finest collection of old coins in the state.

Francis B. Dean

Francis B. Dean, who carries on ag'ricultural pursuits in Mifilin township, was born on the farm where he yet lives on the 6th of October, 1832. His father, Ebenezer Dean, was born in Stamford, Fairfield county, Connecticut, and in the year 18 10 came to Franklin county with his parents, Lebbeus and Ruah Dean, both of whom were natives- of Connecticut. They located in the midst of the wild forest in Mifflin township where the home of our subject now stands, and there the grandfather carried on agricultural pursuits until his death. The father of our subject was married, in Columbus, to ]\Iiss Rachel Dalzell, who was- born in Rochester, New York, and came to Franklin county in early life, locating here in 1818. Her father, William Dalzell, removed with the family from Rochester in July of that year, and located at Columbus, but afterward engaged in farming. The young couple began their domestic life on the farm which is still the home of their son, Francis. The father was killed by a falling tree in 1841, when about forty years of age. His wife passed away in 1893, ^^ ^^'^^ ^^^ ^^ eighty-four years, having long survived her husband. In their family were six children, all of whom were born on the old family homestead, namely : Francis B. ; Robert D., of Colum-

Mr. Dean, of this review, was the eldest child. He was reared on the old family homestead which was the scene of his childhood pleasures as well as of his manhood labors. With the family he experienced all the hardships and trials wdiich fall to the lot of the pioneer. He pursued his education in the district schools of the neighborhood, spent one year as a student in Columbus and also one year in a school in Pittsburg. On the expiration of that period he accepted a clerkship in the wholesale grocery house of Bailey & Renshaw, of Pittsburg, continuing in that position for one year, after which he returned to his home in Mifflin township and resumed farming. He was then twenty-one years of age. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey he chose Miss Fredonia C. Phelps, their courtship being consummated by marriage on the 4th of May, 1854. The lady was born in Blendon township, Franklin county, November 14, 1835. Her father. Homer M. Phelps, was also a native of that township, born February 9, 181 2, while the grandfather, Edward Phelps, was a native of Windsor township, Hartford county, Connecticut, whence they came to Franklin county in the month of August, 1806. He located in Blendon township and was prominently connected with the work of pioneer development here. One of his sons, Edward Phelps, cut the first stick of timber in the township and the family name has been deeply engraved on the history of this portion of the state. Homer M. Phelps was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth G. Connelly, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, who, in 1831, came to Franklin county. Mrs. Dean is the eldest of their three children and is the only daughter. Her brothers are : Warren, who is living in Columbus ; and E. Clinton, wdio makes his home in Chicago. Mrs. Dean was reared in Blendon township and completed her education by a five-years course in the seminary in Worthington, Ohio.

After his marriage our subject took his bride to the old homestead, where, as the years passed, seven children were added to the family, but only three are now living: Homer P., who married Shirlie Turney, by whom he has two children, Francis B. and Emerson T. ; Katie R., the wife of W. E. Postle, by whom she has two children, Sydney E. and Cyril D. ; and Howard F., who married Olive McLeish, and has a daughter. Helen M. Those who have passed away are Clara B., who was the wife of William Longman, by whom she had two children, Hazel and Francis F. ; Mary E., who married W. E. Dill and had three children; Joe Foraker, Dean E. and Parke E. Laura M. died when twelve years of age, and Blanche died in infancy. The children were all born on the old family homestead which has been occupied bv the Deans for almost the entire century. Howard is now a student in a medical college.

One Hundred and Thirty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving as ordnance sergeant. He had charge of all the ammunition and equipments and made out the muster roll for the company before they started for the front. They went to Parkersburg, thence to Washington, D. C, and on to City Point, on the James river, where they were stationed. Mr. Dean served until the expiration of his three-months' term and with his command held Fort Powhattan. He received an honorable discharge at Columbus and then returned home to resume the peaceful pursuits of the farm. He to-day has about three hundred and fifteen acres of valuable land, some of which he rents. His farm is one of the best improved in the county, being supplied with all modern accessories and conveniences.

In his political affiliations Mr. Dean is a stalwart Republican, having always supported the men and measures of the party, and on that ticket he has been elected to the offices of trustee, assessor and land appraiser. He is a member of John A. Miller Po,st, No. 592, G. A. R., and is taking an active part in its work. He served as its first commander and has held the office for three years and has filled all of the official positions in the organization. His wife belongs to J. M. Wells Corps, with which she has been identified for thirteen years, and she has served as a delegate to the national convention in Pittsburg. She is a member of the Congregational church of Columbus.

Mr. Dean has led a busy and useful life, diligence being one of his marked characteristics. Along these lines he has won a creditable success and is to-day numbered among the substantial farmers of his native country. For «ixty-eight years he has been a witness of the growth and development of this portion of the state and is a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family who, through his own labors, has carried forward the work of improvement begun by his ancestors.

George L. Geary

It is probable that Americans adapt themselves to all the requirements of citizenship with more facility and precision than any other people, for the farmer and tradesman becomes a soldier when soldiers are needed, and when peace is declared the soldier loses no time in again becoming the farmer or the tradesman and is equally to be depended upon in business or in battle. The farmer who develops any portion of his country does as good a work for humanity as the soldier who assists to uphold his country's flag, and those wdio. like the subject of this sketch, have done both are doubly deserving of credit.

George L. Geary, a prominent farmer and citizen of Washington township, Franklin county, Ohio, was born at the southeast corner of Front and Race streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, June 22, 1843, ^ son of Benjamin Geary, and a grandson of Richard Geary. His grandfather was born in

Dublin. Ireland, April 21, 1782, and married, November 12, 1804, Benigna Binns, who was born July 21, 1784. He became a barrister and a man of local prominence and died at Dublin October 24, 1834. In 1839 his widow came with her second husband, whose name was Joseph Bromlow, to the United States, and they settled in Washington township, Franklin county, Ohio, on the farm now occupied by Frank A. Zimmer. There Mr. Joseph Bromlow died and his widow married Patrick O'Farrell, who died in Washington township. Mrs. O'Farrell died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Moses Latham, in 1857. She bore her first husband children as follows: Ann Binns, who was born August 31, 1805, and died February 19, 1850; John, wht) was l)orn September 14, 1806, and died at Columbus, Ohio, November 3, 1886; Jane, who was born November 9, 1807, and died May 23, 1808; Richard, who was born October 29, 1809, and died in Ireland; Benigna. who was born September 25, 181 1, and died' March 19, 1835; Benjamin, the father of the subject of this sketch, who was born July 16, 1816. will receive a more extended notice in this article; and Maria, who married the late Aloses Latham, of Washington township. Mrs. Latham was born October 12, 1826, and died at Columbus, Ohio, March 11, 1900. Mrs. O'Farrell had' no children by her second and third marriages.

Jonathan Binns, great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch in the maternal line, was born in Dublin, Ireland, September 17, 1721. He became a well-to-do jeweler and silversmith and at his death left a large estate. His first wife was Ann Emerson, who was born December 8, 1725, and died September 28, 1763, after having borne him children as follows: Ambrose, May 5, 1746; John, September 2y, 1747, who died October 19, 1775; Mary Hannah, August 26, 1750, who died November 13, 1752; Christian, September 14, 1752. who died October 10, 1754; Elizabeth, September 26, 1754; Jonathan, September 25, 1756; Ann, September 23, 1758; Keziah, April 7, 1760. who died September 3, 1763; George, September 23, 1761 ; Joshua, June 6, 1763, who died December 20. 1764. ]\Ir. Binns married Ann Verney December 7. 1764. Miss Verney, who was born October 26, 1744, was the mother of George L. Geary's grandmother, and bore her and other children to her husband as' follows: Mary. January 11, 1766, who died January 25 following; Sarah, February 15, 1767, who died in London, England. August 8, 1790; Keziah, May 26. 1768; Joshua, October i, 1769, wdio died June 20, 1771 ; Moses William, January 21, 1771; Hannah, April 15, 1772; Rebecca, July 2;^. 1773- ^vho died ]\Iarch 5, 1785; Mary, August 26, 1774. who died September 14 following; Priscilla, born October i, 1775, who died June 11, 1777; Elinor, born December 20, 1776; John, March 28, 1778, who died November 2 following; Thomas, born August 25. 1779, who died May 31, 1800; John, born September i, 1781 ; Frederick, March 11, 1783, who died in the following June ; Benigna, the grandmother of the subject of this sketch, born July 21, 1784, who died October 3. 1857; Benjamin, born January 31, 1786; and Joseph, born March 17, 1787, who died August, 1789.

Benjamin Geary, a son of Richard and Benigna (Binns) Geary and the father of George L. Geary, of Washington township, FrankHn county, Ohio, was born in DubHn, Ireland, July 16, 1816, and was well educated. He married and came to the United States in 1836, landing at Philadelphia with very little money with which to begin life in a new land. He opened a small grocery stand at the southeast corner of Front and Race streets, Philadelphia. His business prospered and' he bought property at 126 North Front street, where he continued his enterprise on a larger scale. In Alay, 1856, he came to Washington township, Franklin county, and bought the farm now owned by George Datz. consisting of sixty acres, which he paid for in cash at thirtyfive dollars an acre. He began improving and cultivating the land and soon developed it into a productive farm. \\'hen he began here he knew absolutely nothing of farming, but was willing to work and learn, and he became one of the most scientific farmers in the county. After he had made a start in his new home he went back to Philadelphia and brought his family on to Ohio and kept a diary of their journey, which would be very interesting reading did space permit of its reproduction here. He was' energetic, industrious and persevering and was no less able as a business' man than as a farmer. He was active and influential in politics and during his residence in Philadelphia was a member of the Episcopal church. His public spirit made him a very us'eful citizen in Washington township, and when he died, Jul}- 24, 1867. he was deeply regretted by all who had known him. His wife, who died July II, 1871, was Miss Hannah Ann Dunn. Her father was a sea captain, and during his absence on a voyage she was born at Kingston, Ireland, and her mother yielded up her life in bringing her into the world. She was taken into the family of a sister of her mother's, and later, before her marriage, lived for a time with members of her father's family. She bore her husband children as follows: Benigna was born May 26, 1837. and married Charles Franks September 17, 1861, and died September 29, 1889. Richard Henry was born September 27. 1839, and died ]\Iarch 20, 1845. -^"11 J^^e was born August 20, 1841, and died Xovemlier 29. 1852. George L. is the subject of .this sketch. Sophia was born March 17, 1846, married James A. Smith December 30. 1869, and died in Washington township, Franklin county, Ohio, April 8, 1880.

George L. Geary attended the public school at the Xew street school house in Philadelphia from 1850. when he was seven years old, until 1856, when, at the age of thirteen, he was brought by his parents to Ohio. In 1850, during his first year in school, a terrible explosion of gunpowder and saltpetre occurred in Philadelphia, wh.ich Mr. Geary states wrecked the Xew street school house and four hundred other buildings. His sister Benigna was hurled into the cellar of a dwelling which had been blown away bv the explosion and young Geary's father was thrown into the Delaware river, from which he managed to make his escape. A man who had been thrown into the same cellar with her helped Benigna to a i)lace o{ safety. After the explosion

Air. Geary's father's house was a refuge for many people who had Ijeen rendered homeless by the calamity. There is matter for reflection for believers in dreams in Mr. Geary's statement that before the explosion his father dreamed of precisely such a catastrophe and that he was thrown into the water as described above.

George L. assisted in the work on his father's farm in Ohio until he was eighteen years old, and then, October i6, 1861, he enlisted "for three years or during the war'' of the Rebellion, as a private in Company D, Forty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His company commander was his cousin, Captain Harding C. Geary, and his regimental commander was Colonel Thomas Worthington. The Forty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was attached to the Fifth Division, commanded by General Sherman, and when army corps were formed was included in the Second Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Corps. General Sherman was the division commander and General McDowell commanded the brigade. Mr. Geary also served luider Generals Grant, IMcPherson, Logan and Walcutt. The regiment fought at Shiloh. took part in the siege of Corinth and also in the siege of Vicksburg, and in the engagements at Jackson, Atlanta and numerous other places. Air, Geary was at length discharged from the service by reason of expiration of his' term of enlistment, October 26, 1864, at Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Returning to Ohio, Mr. Geary resumed work on his father's farm. September 23, 1866, he married Miss Martha J. Cosgray, who was born in Washington township, Franklin county, Ohio, October 31, 1843, ^ daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Gordon) Cosgray. An extended sketch of the Cosgray family appears elsewhere iu this work. After hisi marriage Mr. Geary lived for a time on the Geary home farm and then removed to Jerome township. Union county, Ohio, where he bought a farm on which he remained two years. He then returned to Washington township, Franklin county, and, after working rented land four 3'ears, bought his present farm of fiftysix acres, one of the good farms of the township, the house on which was built by John Watts' in 1840. A man of good business ability, he has made a creditable success in life and is regarded as a citizen of much public spirit, who advocates all measures tending to benefit his fellow^ townsmen and advance the best interests of his township, county and state. Politically he is a Democrat, and he is an active worker for the success of his party and has held several important township offices, having been long a member of the school board, township trustee for two. terms and justice of the peace for several years, and a decennial appraiser of real property in 1900, performing the duties of these offices with an ability and integrity which have won him the commendation of the leading men of his township regardless of party affiliation. He is a member of John A. Spellman Post, No. 321, Grand Army of the Republic, of Hilliard's. and has twice been elected its' commander.

The following facts concerning the children of George L. and Martha J. (Cosgray) Geary will be found interesting in this connection: Lucy, the eldest, was born August 12, 1867, and married A. F. DeWitt and lives in Jerome township, Union county, Ohio. Anna E. was born March 7, 1869. Sarah E. was born November 29, 1871, and was married September 5, 1894, to William Lig-gett and lives in Washington township, Franklin county. Benigna, born September 27, 1874, married George Leppert October 8, 1896, and lives in Washington township. John B., who was born December 13, 1876, was married to Gertie Skidmore December 20, 1899. Bessie Sophia w^as born May 12, 1882.

Ebenezer Barcus

The city of Columbus is noted for its representative business men, and among them may be classed Ebenezer Barcus. He was born in Kent county, Delaware, and was a son of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Glandon) Barcus, the former of whom was born in Maryland, in June, 1790, the latter in the same state about 1793. The father of our subject was a farmer by occupation and moved to Ohio in 1828, locating in Columbus, where he engaged in work as a carpenter. He was well known and respected. His death 'occurred in 1869, having survived his wife thirty-nine years. It is probable that the Barcus family came from Scotland and Ireland to America before the war of the Revolution.

Ebenezer Barcus, our subject, received his education in the city schools, later enjoying some advantages at a private school. He was then taught the trade of bricklayer, the rapid growth of the city giving him plenty of employment. During the great gold excitement of 1849 ^'^^ joined a company consisting of thirty members and started across the plains for California. After reaching his destination he began operations on the Yuba river, in Gulch Digging^s, this proving fairly remunerative. His observation soon told him that a fine business might be carried on in purchasing and supplying necessary .supplies to miners, and into this he then entered and successfully conducted it for a period of three years.

Returning to Columbus, Mr. Barcus embarked in the grocery business and also pork-packing, being indirectly connected with the Comstocks, extensive pork-packers. From 1863 to 1874 he was actively engaged in this undertaking, but at that time disposed of his interests and invested his proceeds in the fine farm lands through Franklin and Pickaway counties, Ohio, His present landed estate now numbers t\yenty-five hundred acres of choice land, a portion of it being a first and second bottom, lying on the Columbus and' Chillicothe pike and all on the Scioto river. This land is among the most fertile in the state and is best adapted for growing grain. Mr. Barcus has no difficulty in finding tenants for these farms, and the income is a large one. In 1 87 1 he erected his business house on High street, which is now occupied by the Ohio Furniture Company. It is one of the best adapted houses in the city, four stories in height, the upper floors being occupied as offices.

Our subject is a Republican in poHtics, voting that ticket in national and state matters, but in local issues he prefers to be independent. For several years he served the city as a member of the council. Socially he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He began life with small means, but industry, energy and honesty have brought to him prosperity.

Joseph B. Powell

Joseph Bigelow Powell, one of the oldest native residents of Truro township, Franklin county, was born in a log cabin on the farm where he now resides, March 27, 1822. It is supposed that his great-grandfather, Joseph Powell, was a native of Wales. Joseph Powell, Jr., the grandfather, was born in Maryland, was a farmer by occupation, and died in Bedford county, Pennsylvania. He married a IMiss McCoy, who was born and reared in ]\raryland, and was a relative of Robert McCoy, who built the American Flotel in Columbus.

Archibald Powell, the father of our subject, was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, and when about ten years of age went to Bedford county, Pennsylvania, a mountainous district, in which he was reared to manhood. There in 1808 he married Elizabeth Adams, who was born in Virginia, and when three years of age was taken to Bedford county, Pennsylvania. Her father, Jacob Adams, was probably a native of the Old Dominion and was of German descent. He married Clara Dustheimer, also a native of Virginia. The great-grandfather was born in Germany. After his marriage Archibald Powell resided in Pennsylvania until 181 5, when he came to Ohio, bringing with him his wife and four children. In Truro township he secured a claim which was covered with a dense growth of timber and in its midst he built a little log cabin, fourteen by sixteen feet. There his family of six took up their abode, living in true pioneer style, for they were among the first settlers of the township. The father was' a lifelong Jeffersonian Democrat, and for many years was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He lived to be nearly eighty-five years of age, and his wife was about eighty-six years of age at the time of her death. They were the parents of four sons and five daughters, all of whom reached mature years and reared families of their own, namely: William, who was' born in 1809; Mary, in.i8io; Jacob, in 1813; George, in 1815; Malinda A. and Rachel M., in 1818; Josepli B., in 1822; Elizabeth, in 1824; and Clarissa A., November 19, 1828. The first four children were natives of Pennsvlvania, the others of Franklin county, Ohio.

Mr. Powell, of this review, is the seventh child and fourth son, and is the only survivor of the family. He spent his boyhood in the cabin home and pursued hisi education in a log schoolhouse with a mud-and-stick chimney, an immense fireplace, slab seats and one door. He went to school during the three winter months and throughout the remainder of the year worked on the home farm from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the autumn. For some years before his father's death he had charge of the old homestead. In 1850 he went across the plains to California, where he was employed in mining for about two years, returning by way of the water route to New York city. He paid eight dollars to ride twenty-five miles on the railroad from Chagres river to Aspinwall. From New York he came to Franklin county by way of Buffalo and Cleveland.

In 1863 Mr. Powell married Lucinda T. French, who was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, and died in 1870, leaving three sons, - Clement M.. William A. and Andrew J. For his second wife Mr. Powell chose Mary S. Fancher, the wedding taking place in 1876. They have three daughters, - Gerda M., Flavia E. and Vashti E., - all with their parents'.

Mr. Powell now owns and operates two hundred and twenty acres of good land, all under a high state of cultivation. He has passed the seventyninth milestone on life's journey, but still superintends his farm, and the welltilled fields yield him a golden tribute. He takes' an active interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community, and for six years he served as township trustee, proving a most competent officer. Few men have a wider acquaintance and none are more favorably known in his township and the surrounding country than Joseph B, Powell.

Henry Huffman

Henry Huffman, the subject of the present review, is the owner of a fine farm on the Jackson pike, six miles south of Columbus, in Jackson township, Franklin county, Ohio. He was born in this county August 12. 1845, a son of Henry and Catherine Huffman, both natives of Washington county, Pennsylvania, who became early settlers of Franklin county, Ohio, building a log house in the woods and enduring the trials and privations of pioneer life, this accounting perhaps' for the death of Mr. Huffman when only fortynine years old. Both parents of our subject had contracted previous marriages, Mr. Huffman, Sr., having married a Miss Spohn, of which marriage three children were born, and Mrs. Huffman at the time of her second marriage was a Mrs. Catherine Meech and the mother of two children. A family of five were born to the parents of Mr. Huffman, and he was the second son of thisi union, one sister and one brother still surviving.

Although Mr. Huffman was so unfortunate as to lose both parents when was but twelve, he remained with relatives in Jackson township until he -was about fourteen, when he was sent to relatives in Washington county, Pennsylvania, where he lived for six years. Here he earned his own living, but when he reached his majority he returned to Jackson township and there engaged in any and all work that would bring compensation. Finally he rented a patch of ground from his father's estate, cleared it up and disposed of his crops successfully, later buying one hundred acres on Jackson pike, adjoining- the farm where he lives, paying for this twelve thousand dollars, and resided there nineteen years. Mr. Huffman has made a success of general farming and truck farming, also engaging extensively in the raising of cattle. His land in Jackson township includes two hundred and seven acres, while he is also the owner of one hundred and eighty acres in Union county, Ohio.

The marriage of Mr. Huffman took place in April, 1866, when Miss Jane E. Lowe became his wife. She was born in Franklin county and is the daughter of one of the old settlers. Mr. and Mrsi. Huffman are the parents of four children : Ira, who married Catherine Scharf, of Jackson Pike, and the names of their two children are Albert and Lisle; Inez became the wife of E. B. Graham and resides at Denyer, Colorado; Orin married Ola Blake and they reside at Shadeville, with one daughter, Helen ; and Liska is still at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Huffman are valued members of the Presbyterian church, and the whole family is one that commandsi the esteem of the community in which they live.

James Pippin

It is profitable to write and to read the life history of a self-made man, who, beginning poor and without aid, makes his way to a creditable station in the world. About every element of interest in such a personal record attaches to the biography of James Pippin, an old and respected resident of Franklin township, Franklin county, Ohio, w^ho was born in Belmont county, thisf state, January 31, 1833, and at the age of twelve years began to fight the battle of life for himself. His father, William Pippin, died when he \vas very young. His mother, who was known as Widow McConnell before William Pippin married her, had three children by her first marriage and five by her marriage to Mr. Pippin.

James Pippin was the fourth in order of birth of the two daughters and three sons born to William and Mary (McConnell) Pippin, and traces his ancestry on his father's side to early settlers of Pennsylvania and on his mother's side to early pioneers of Maryland. He was reared in Holmes county, Ohio, and when little more than a child was doing heavy farm work and driving a team, hauling goods through Ohio mud. His schooling w^as limited to a few months' attendance at one of the private schools among the hills of Holmes county. When he had attained his majority he was married and engaged in farming in that county until 1857, when he went to Morgan county, Indiana, with the intention of remaining there ; but, not liking the country, he came to Franklin county, Ohio, and took up his residence in a little building in Franklin township, on wdiat was known as the Wilson farm, which now does service as a blacksmith shop. For two years he chopped wood, which he piled on the railroad or hauled to Columbus, and after that for four years he rented the Riordan farm, which was located just across the road from Camp Chase, which was in existence during the Civil war. He then bought a forty-acre farm, which he sold in a year in order to buy the farm on which he has since lived. At that time there were few improvements upon the place, nothing in the way of a house but a small log hut, into which he moved with his family. The place, which consists of about fifty acres, was a very productive farm, upon which he gradually made improvements, erected a dwelling-house, barns and other outbuildings as he was able, and has developed it into a good property.

In Washington township, Holmes county, Ohio, Mr. Fippin was united in marriage to Miss Mary Shank, a native of Holmes county, whose parents moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio in the early days of the settlement of the state. Unto Mr. Fippin and his wife have been born six children, namely: John, who lives in Jackson township; and Ambrose J., who lives in Franklin township. Franklin county, Ohio ; they are both -married ; Mary Ann, who married Frank P. Sperry, of Franklin towns'hip ; James E. ; and Samuel and Charles, who are married and live in Columbus, Ohio.

Mr. Fippin is a pioneer in his neighborhood and has been prominent in township affairs ever since he located there. He is a Republican, but votes for the best man for any local office regardless of the candidates' political views; has served his township ably as a justice of the peace; is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church,' and has filled the offices of trustee and treasurer of the church of that denomination with which he is identified.

George R. Schott

It argues well for Franklin county that so many of her native sons retain their residence here throughout the period of their active business careers. Mr. Schott is numbered among those who. having been born in the county, are still living within its boundaries, being a well known representative of agricultural, commercial and industrial interests. His birth occurred in Blendon township on the 24th of July, 1867, his parents being Charles and Rebecca E. (Ellis) Schott. The father is a native of Columbus, born April 29, 1840, a son of John Schott, whose birth occurred in Germany and who came to the United States when a young man. He took up his abode in the capital city and there followed his trade of brick-mason throughout his entire life. When his sons became voung men he purchased a farm in the northwest corner of Plain township and removed to the country, his sons engaging in the operation of the land while he continued to follow his chosen vocation. Charles Schott, the father of our subject, spent his boyhood days under the parental roof and learned the brick-mason's trade. After the country became involved in civil war. the south attempting to throw off allegiance to the national government, he joinq^l the E^nion army, in 1862, as a member of the

One Hundred and Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he served for three years, loyally supporting the old flag and the cause it represented.

In 1866 Charles Schott was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca E. Ellis, a native of Tuscarawas county. Her parents died when she was three years of age and she was reared by strangers. After their marriage Mr. Schott purchased a tract of land of sixteen acres in Blendon township, on which was standing a log cabin. It was in that home that our subject was' born. In 1879 the father removed with his family to Shelby county, Ohio, but after a year returned to Blendon township, Franklin county, and six months later removed to Plain township, taking charge of the old family homestead, which he managed for his mother, his sons doing the work of the farm while he engaged in business as a stone-mason for four years. Later he purchased his present home farm of fifty acres and his sons resided thereon. The cultivation of the fields is largely performed by his son Leo, while he and his sons Milton and Lewis work at tTie brick-mason's trade. In politics he is a stanch Democrat and is a member of the Lutheran church. In the family were nine children, seven of whom are yet living, namely : George R., Milton and Lewis, who are associated with their father in business ; Leo ; Margaret ; Noah, deceased; Emma; Ada, deceased; and Nora. All of the children with the exception of our subject are with their parents.

George R. Schott was surrounded by the influences of a good home in his youth. He acquired his education in the common schools and at Central College, and when nineteen years of age he began preparation for the responsible duties of a business career by entering upon an apprenticeship to the brick and stone-mason's trade, following those purusits through the succeeding six years. He was a thorough and conscientious) workman and his services, therefore, were always in demand. On the 31st of October, 1892, he was united in marriage to Miss Emma Clotts, a daughter of Daniel Clotts, Sr. The following year Mr. Schott took charge of his father-in-law's farm, and in the eight years' which have since passed he has shown himself to be a capable business man and one of the leading agriculturists of this section. In connection with farming, he is one of the stockholders and a member of the board of directors of the Gahanna Creamery Company.

In his political views Mr. Schott is a Democrat where national issues are involved, but at local elections he votes independently, regarding only the efficiency of the candidates. He belongs to the Lutheran church and is one of the progressive and highly esteemed citizens of Franklin county.

William H. Innis

William H. Innis, deceased, was one of the foremost citizens of Clinton township from early manhood until his death. He was a gentleman of more than ordinary information and attainments, and as a public-spirited and pro- gressive citizen he gave his support to those enterprises calculated to advance the moral, social, intellectual or material welfare of his native county.

Mr. Innis was born in Clinton township, February 2, 1824, and was the third in order of birth in a family of six children, whose parents were Henry and Isabelle (Clifford) Innis, pioneer settlers of Franklin county. He was reared on the home farm and as soon as old enough entered the subscription schools of that day, wdiere he laid the foundation for a collegiate course. At the age of eighteen he became a student at Central College, near Westerville, Ohio, and in that institution completed his education. This enabled him to engage in teaching, a calling which he followed in Franklin county during the winter months for some time. At the beginning of his career as a teacher he bought twenty acres: of land in Clinton township, and through the summer season he engaged in its operation. When he discontinued teaching he devoted his attention entirely to farming, and met with excellent success in that vocation. As his accumulations increased he invested in other land, and his estate at one time comprised five hundred acres of valuable land, all in Clinton township. One of his subsequent purchases was the Henry C. Noble farm, which came into his possession during the Civil war and upon which he located October 2, 1863; and four years later he bought the remaining portion of that tract, upon which he made his home throughout the remainder of his life. He erected thereon a large brick residence and made other permanent improvements which added greatly to the value and attractive appearance of the place.

On the 3d of October, 1854, Air. Innis was united in marriage with Aliss Mary Margaret, a daughter of Adam G. and Margaret Gantz, of Marion township, this county, and to them were born nine children, five sons and four daughters, as follows: Maxwell P., mentioned below; Adam G. ; Louvina, the wife of James Dumm, of Delaware, Ohio; Sarah G., the wife of Charles Schneider, of Columbus; Isabelle, the wife of William Dumm, also of Delaware, Ohio; Lewis, a resident of Clinton township, this county; William H., also of this county; Ada R., wife of George Williams, of Columbus; and James H., who died in infancy.

Mr. Innis died on the i6th of February, 1890, and his wife departed this life December 23, 1891. In early youth he united with the Methodist Episcopal church, and always took an active and prominent part in church and Sabbath-school work, laboring untiringly to disseminate the truths of the scriptures in the minds of the young and serving as a teacher of the Bible class for many years. He was also a member of the official board of the church, and in all of his religious work was nobly assisted by his devoted wife, who with her husband was foremost in doing good in the cause of the Master. Politically he was originally a Whig, and after the organization of the Republican party joined its ranks, becoming a firm supporter of its principles. During his last years, however, he voted the Prohibition ticket. He was drafted during the Civil war and paid five hundred dollars for a substitute. Mr.

Innisi was a ver}^ generous man, contributing liberally to all churches regardless of denomination, and to all worthy public enterprises. He was a selfmade man, having begun life with no capital, and the success that he achieved was certainly justly merited.

Maxwell P. Innis, the eldest son of our subject, was born on the home farm in Clinton township, September 12, 1855, and received his preliminary education in the district schools. In 1876 he entered the Ohio State University, where he pursued the agricultural course. His education being completed, he returned home in 1877 ^^^ remained under the parental roof until his marriage, which was celebrated November 26, 1882, Miss Mary E., a daughter of George Kirts, of this county, becoming his wife. Three children were born to them, but one died in infancy, the others being Ethel B. and Bessie M. The parents are both active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics Mr. Innis is a Prohibitionist. After his marriage he purchased twenty-five acres of land from his father, upon which he lived until 1895, when he removed to his present farm, having inherited the same from his father's estate. He owns seventy-eight acres of well improved land in Clinton township, and is successfully engaged in i.ts operations. Socially he is one of the most highly respected citizens of his community.

Jacob M. Weiblixg

Jacob M. ^^'eibling, the proprietor of the leading livery stable of Westerville, was born in Woodbury, Morrow county, Ohio, on the 2d of May, 1857, and is a son of John and Catherine (Emahiser) \\'eibling, of whose family of four children only our subject siurvives. The father was born in York county, Pennsylvania, September 25, 1814, and there grew to manhood, learning the trade of cabinet-making. In his youth he married a Miss Kleinfelter and they became the parents of seven children, of whom one is yet living, Mary, now the wife of Oliver Hathaway, of Edison, Ohio.