Concord Township (part 4 of 5)

WM. II. KERR, farmer ; P. O. Troy. Wm. R. Kerr is a direct descendant of one of our early pioneers ; he is a son of William and Rachel Kerr, both of whom were born in Monroe Township. They were the 'parents of eight children, six of whom survive - George G., Sarah P., Susannah, Margaret E., Edward E., and William R., to whom this sketch is dedicated. He was born on the home farm March 30, 1852, and his occupation, from choice, has been that of a farmer. Since the death of his father, he has been the manager of the whole estate of 332 acres, and the general aspect of things betokens his ability. He was united in marriage to Miss Delilah Pence, Dec. 22, 1873, b}* the Rev. Wm. Jay. Thus far, two bright little children have blest their union - Ercy C. and Mary E. Mr. Kerr is now engaged in rearing blooded stock, and will, no doubt, make it a success. He is himself a worker, and under his auspices the farming is done in a systematic manner. Both himself and wife are members of the Christian Church, and we are also pleased to note him a thoroughbred Democrat. He possesses the characteristics of the Kerr family in a high degree, and will, no doubt, attain a prominent position among our best farmers.

S. H. KERR, farmer ; P. (). Troy. S. II. Kerr justly takes a place in the history among the legal representatives of the pioneers. His grandfather, Hamilton Kerr, came to the county in 1804, and afterward married Miss Rlioda Furnace. Their four sons are all represented in this history, except John, and the Kerr family has a record equal to that of any in the county. George Kerr is the father of the subject of this sketch, and is one of the wealthiest men in Monroe Township. Samuel II. Kerr was married to Miss Minnie *E. Stewart, of Clark Co.,

April 2, 1874, at the residence of the bride's parents. The first }*ear after his marriage was spent at the home of his wife's parents, and the next spring they took possession of the fine farm upon which he now resides, everything betokening his practical knowledge of agriculture. Thus far they are the parents of two children, both beautiful girls - Blanche and Daisy. Blanche was born in 1874, and Daisy in 1878. Mr. Kerr was born a Democrat, and adheres strictly to its Jacksonian principles. He is one of our most courteous and affable 3Toung men, and is especially well posted upon topics of the day. Mr. Kerr's education is first-class, his leisure being spent in storing his mind with useful knowledge.

CHARLES KESSLER, dealer in wines and liquors, Troy ; born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1847 ; received his education in his native cquntry ; at 13 years of age, he commenced the occupation of rope-making, continuing the same until 1867, at which date he emigrated to America, and for ten years followed the occupation of harness-making ; in 1877, n he engaged in his present business, in which he has been quite successful. Married in 1875 to Margaret Pfister ; one child was born to them, Augusta, now deceased.

CHRISTIAN LEIDIGH, carriage blacksmith, Troy. Christian Leidigh was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., May 13, 1845 ; he is a son of Michael and Louisa (Schwartz) Leidigh, both natives of Penn.; his parents moved to this State in the year 1853, and settled in Clark Co., where they lived till the death of his mother, in the autumn of 1863 ; his father is still living in Medway, Clark Co. The boyhood of our subject was spent on the farm, and his education was received in the common schools. In the fall of 1862, when the flag which we all love was in danger, and rebellion was rife in the Southern States, he, although only a boy of 17, bade farewell to home and friends, and enlisted in the 83d 0. V. I., under Col. F. W. Moore, of Cincinnati, and started for the seat of war ; he served his country for three years, most of the time in the 3d Division, 13th Army Corps, Department of the Gulf ; he was in the fight of Chickasaw Ba3rou, Arkansas Post and Vicksburg, also the Red River campaign, the Battle of Champion Hills ; assisted in the taking of Jackson twice ; he was in numerous other battles in the Gulf States, some of which, though of little note in history, were as hard-earned as any of the more prominent ones ; he served faithfulty till the 24th of August, 1865, when he was mustered out at Galveston, Texas, and was finalty discharged at Camp Dennison. After coming home, he learned the trade of blacksmith, worked as journeyman in several counties, and finally located at Troy, where he now carries on business, working chiefs on buggies, carriages and spring-wagons. He married Miss Candace Heckerman on the 17th of November, 1870. One child, Cora, has been born to them, Oct. 29, 1871. Mr. Leidigh is a genial, jovial gentleman, and has man3T friends, both in the fraternity of I. 0. 0. F., of which he is a member, and in the community at large. His wife is an exemplary lad3^, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

WILLIAM LIEDEL, barber, Troy. William Liedei is the most popular barber in Tro3r ; he was born and reared in Cincinnati, his father, Peter Liedei, being the first white barber in that cit\T ; he was married .to Miss Julia Leitz, in Baden Baden, Germany ; they emigrated to Cincinnati in 1831 ; their children were seven in number - Peter, William, Frank, Julia, Louisa, Amelia and John ; of the whole family, there are none living except the subject of this sketch ; he has for more than a quarter of a century been engaged in the tonsorial business, and is, without doubt, the finest barber in the county ; his parlors are on Market street, near the public square, Troy, Ohio ; he employs four skilled workmen, and does the business of the city. His marriage to Miss Charlotta Wasserman was celebrated in 1867 ; her parents, John and Mary Wasserman, were among the old settlers of Troy ; Mr. W. left a large estate at the time of his death. William Liedei and wife have no children, but have lately adopted a son, who is named after his foster father. Mr. Liedei was one of the first to respond to his country's call for troops during the late civil war ; he enlisted in Co. C, 6th 0. V. L, and at the expiration of his term of service, re-enlisted in the same compan3r and regiment ; participated in the battles of Stone River, Shiloh, Perryville and Rich Mountain ; was also with Sherman on his march to the sea ; he was twice wounded at Stone River and Shiloh ; he was honorably discharged at the close of the war, and is entitled to a place among the heroes of our countiy.

MARTIN H. LONG, grocer, Troy. The subject of this sketch was born in Troy Nov. 8, 1853 ; is a son of Adam and Mary (Dick) Long, who came to this county at an early day, and located in Troy ; he was engaged in the butchering business until the time of his death, in 1863. Martin spent his boyhood here, and was educated in the Troy schools ; he entered the grocery business soon after having attained his majority, where he has continued the business, keeping a full line of groceries and everything pertaining to a general groceiy trade. March 4, 1875, he was joined in wedlock to Mary Streuble, b}r whom he has one child, Cora, born May 18, 1876. He and his wife are both members of the German Lutheran Church, with which they have been connected for several years.

JOHN A. LONG, butcher, Troy ; is a native of Miami Co., and was born in Troy May 31, 1842, his father being Adam Long, a native of Germany, who came to Miami Co. about the year 1824, where he followed butchering until his death in 1861 ; his widow still survives, residing in Trcy. Our subject was educated in the schools of Troy, and has devoted his whole life to his present business, learning the trade of his father when quite young, and has successful!}7 followed the same for a period of nineteen }^ears, his present place of business being on the corner of Main and Chestnut streets. His marriage with Lucinda Layton was celebrated in March, 1864 ; they have two sons. Walter and Eugene.

DAVID A. McCLUNG, retired farmer ; P. 0. Troy. David A. McClung is a thoroughbred son of Miami Co., having been born upon the spot upon which he now resides, Aug. 15, 1826, and with the exception of three years, has never left the loved spot ; he was the youngest son of David and Nancy McClung, who were married in Kentucky April 12, 1808 ; their wedding tour was a horseback ride from Lexington to Troy ; it was during the spring freshets, and the creeks and rivers were swollen with the heavy rains ; upon their arrival opposite the site of Troy, they found the river running high, and, as there was no bridge, they were obliged to swim their horses across at a point now called " Coe's Ford Indians were then very plentiful, and not very friendly. During the month of July, 1812, a Mr. Gerard, Mr. Dilbone and wife were murdered. Previous to this time, there had been hostilities brewing, and nearl}' all the able-bodied men were on the frontier under arms ; it so happened that Mr. McClung was then away ; his wife with three small children and a neighbor girl, Nanc}r Telford, were left alone. Aaron Tullis brought word in the evening that the Indians were killing and scalping eveiybody, and that they must get to the block-house in Troy as soon, and in the best way they could, while he went to warn other settlers ; they started at once, Mrs. McClung, with a 3-weeks old babe in her arms, leading another child 2 years old by the hand, with Nancy and Cloyd, 7 years old, carrying the trusty rifle, the}' proceeded on their way ; fearing to take the bridle path that led direct to Troy, they made a detour to the right through the woods, and after wandering about for some time with out reaching their destination, sat down upon a log to await the moon's rising ; as they were expected at the block-house, but came not, three men were sent out to hunt them ; Mrs. McClung could hear them halloo, but, fearing they were Indians, gave no answer ; finally her name was called, when she replied, help came, and the}' arrived at the block-house at almost day break. We can hardly conceive that the beautiful plain between Ridge avenue and Troy, ever could have been such a mass of tangled brush that persons would get lost in coming such a short distance ; there were in the block-house about eighty persons that had fled there for protection ; the next day, Mrs. McClung and her babies went to Judge Barbee's house and stayed a few days, or until the supposed danger was past ; three children are now living of the McClung family ; the father dying in 1841, and the mother in 1862 ; she was 80 years old, and her husband 65. By the death of his father, David, the subject of this sketch, became heir of a portion of the home farm, and by sucessive purchases has added to it until he is now the owner of more than 300 acres of land ; through his enterprise, aided by that of his two brothers, the Troy Hydraulic was established ; this enterprise will at no distant day be of vast importance to the business interests of the city ; the brothers were also the moving spirits in the Miami Co. Agricultural Board, and the first meeting was held on their grounds ; rain falling, the exhibition was continued in their barn. David A. McClung was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth T. Harker Jan. 4, 1853, Rev. David Rice officiating ; they have four children living - Mary C., the eldest daughter, is now wife of Henry Davis, of Kokomo, Ind. ; the other three, John C. and his two sisters, Emma and Louisa, live with their parents ; John C., has finished his studies, and the two daughters are advancing rapidly ; Emma now having been two years in the high school ; the whole family are great readers, and have access to a fine library ; the children are rapidly becoming accomplished musicians, being good vocalists as well. Mr. McClung votes a straight Republican ticket, and has the satisfaction of living in a splendid house, surrounded by every comfort.

JOHN M. McCAMPBELL, proprietor of boarding-house, Troy ; born in Staunton Township Nov. 21. 1809 ; is the son of William M. McCampbell, who was born in Rockbridge Co., W. Va., in 1772 ; his mother, Elizabeth Orbison, was born in the same State, and was several years her husband's junior ; they were married about 1806, and immediately afterward settled in the county in which they lived till their death, he dying Feb. 27, 1847, and she in 1821 ; they were the parents of eight children, three living ; his father's second marriage was celebrated with Judith Luce, nee Gerard, who bore him four children, one living ; she died in 1868. When 17 years of age, our subject came to Troy, and, with James Hanna, learned the tanner and currier's trade, then took a trip through the Western States ; in 1834, he purchased his first employer's business, which he carried on till 1868, when he sold out and purchased where he now resides. May 29, 1836, he was married to Lucinda Fuller, who bore him two children - Mary H. and Edward N., the latter deceased, aged 25 years ; the former was married to Charles C. Newall (deceased), by whom she had one child, viz., Edward N. ; Mrs. McCampbell's parents, Obadiah and Lucy Fuller, were natives of Virginia, and afterward residents of New Carlisle, Clark Co., Ohio, where both died of cholera Sept. 5, 1834, and almost in the same hour, the father aged 54 years, the mother 45 ; they were parents of seven children, six of whom were living at their parents' death, feeling the double affliction with great severity. Mrs. McCampbell was born in Clark Co. in 1820 ; they are members of the Presbyterian Church, with which he has been connected since 1827 ; she was formerly of the Baptist Church, but joined the Presbyterians in 1865 ; both take an interest in their church and a pleasure in rearing high their Christian standard ; their deceased son was an exemplary young man, and a member of the Presbyterian Church ; he left a young wife to mourn his untimely death.

J OHN GEORGE MAYER, dealer in wines, liquors and beer, also bottled beer, and makes a specialty of charging soda fountains, Troy ; was born in Bavaria, Germany, March 21, 1837, where he received instruction in the German schools until 15 years of age ; then came to America, arriving in New York City July 2, 1852 ; thence he came West to Hamilton Co., Ohio, and worked on a farm until 1854 ; afterward he located in Cincinnati, and followed the occupation of a barber for a number of years ; came to Troy in 1861, and followed his trade until 1867, when he engaged in the confectionery business ; and in 1869, changed to a " grocer was connected for several years with Joseph Henney in the Troy Brewery ; in 1878, commenced his present business, now bottling from four to seven barrels of beer per week ; he also makes a specialty of charging soda fountains, being the only one in Troy doing that business. Is a Republican in politics, and connected with the Fire Department, of which he is a very prominent member, being now Assistant Chief of the Fire Department of Troy, in which capacity he has served for some years, always taking an active part in its management. Married Anna Eitel

ISAAC S. MEEKS, M. D., physician and surgeon, Troy ; David Meeks, the father of our subject, was born in Washington Co., Penn., April 23, 1776, and was there married, in the fall of 1797, to Diana Evans, who was born in the same county, Jan. 18, 1779. They had nine children, to wit : Mary, born Feb. 4, 1799 ; Jesse, born Nov. 18, 1800 ; John, born July 22, 1804 ; David, born Oct. 30, 1807 ; Nancy, born Oct. 27, 1809 ; Sarah, born Oct. 31, 1811 ; Eli, born Jan. 14, 1814; Isaac S. born Oct. 25, 1816, and Stephen, born Nov. 25, 1818. In the spring of 1804, the}' removed from Pennsylvania to Fairfield Co., Ohio, where they remained about two years and then moved to Franklin Co., Ohio, near the city of Columbus, where they resided some eight years ; in the fall of 1814, they removed to Miami Co., Ohio, where they spent the remainder of their days ; their married life extending over a period of about sixty-six years, fifty of which they spent in old Miami. David Meeks died Oct. 2, 1863, aged 87 years 5 months and 9 days; and five months later, on the 10th day of March, 1864, his aged wife followed him, at the age of 85 years 1 month and 21 days. They left, living, six children, twenty-two grand-children, and thirteen great-grandchildren. Father Meeks was of English parentage, and Mother Meeks of Welsh. They were devoted members of the Regular Baptist Church. Father Meeks served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and in politics was always a strict Democrat. Isaac S. Meeks, the subject of our sketch, was born as above stated, on the old homestead in Bethel Township, Miami Co., Ohio, and was brought up as a farmer's boy. On the 24th of March, 1833, he became a member of the Staunton Baptist Church, Elder Willis Hance, Pastor, which church has since become extinct, after which he joined the Casstown Baptist Church. « Having obtained a common-school education, he resolved to advance still higher, accordingly, on the 31st of March, 1834, he entered school at Piqua, Ohio, where he continued about a year, working mornings, evenings and Saturdays to pay his board, in the family of the Elder Charles Hilliard. He then took board in Piqua, but, in' February, 1835, left Piqua and returned to the home farm, where he, with the kindly aid of his father, soon earned enough money to pay his delinquent board bill. Oct. 19, 1835, he began teaching school, which occupation, together with study and travel, occupied his time until Sept. 20, 1837, at which time he entered Granville College, where he pursued a select course for about a year; on the 24th of April, 1839, he began studying medicine with Dr. R. Sabin, of Troy, and continued his studies, with slight interruptions, until Oct. 27, 1841, when he entered upon a course of lectures at the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati ; during the vacation he traveled some in Indiana, seeking a favorable location, but, not finding what he desired, he resumed teaching until in the fall of 1844, when he returned to Miami Co.; here, on the 6th of December of that year, he entered upon the practice of his profession in Bethel Township, where he continued until May 26, 1847, at which time he removed to Casstown, and practiced until the fall of 1849 ; he then returned to Cincinnati, and completed his course at the Ohio Medical College, obtaining the decree of Doctor of Medicine, March 4, 1850 ; returning to Casstown, he entered extensively into practice. He was married Dec. 11, 1851. to Alice, daughter of William C. Knight, but she subsequently died without issue. He was again married Sept. 11, 1853, to his present wife, Ensebia, daughter of Rev. John Blodgett. In November of 1859, he removed to Troy, Ohio, and has remained there ever since, actively engaged in the duties of his profession.

MRS. ROSEN A MILLER, Troy. Mrs. Rosena Miller is now in her 72d year, and retains her memory in a remarkable degree ; her grandparents' names were John and Rhoda Carmichael, and her father was Alexander McCollum. Her marriage with Mr. Cornelius Miller was solemnized in 1826, and the next year they came to Miami Co. Mr. Miller was born in Warren Co., September, 1804, and from his 4th birthday has been a resident of Miami. Both himself and wife, residents of this township forty-five years, have, by their good deeds, greatly endeared themselves to those living in their neighborhood. The privations of the pioneer's

-early life were a familiar picture to them ; but they looked upon the bright side of things, and, in the end, came off victorious. During their married life, eleven children were born - Isaac, July 12, 1827 ; Mary, Dec. 14, 1829 ; Abigail, Nov. 26, 1831; Hetty, Nov. 21, 1833; John N., Jan. 11, 1837; Sarah, June 25, 1839; Jasper, Oct. 8, 1841 ; James M., Nov. 25, 1843 ; Winfield S., Jan. 14, 1846 ; Amanda, June 20, 1848, and Martha W., April 28, 1853. Of these, only three are now living - Hetty, Sarah and Amanda ; Sarah is the wife of Joshua Harrett, and lives in Nebraska ; Amanda was married to William B. Hammond, who superintends the farm and lives near the old home ; Hetty lives with her mother - the eomfort of her declining years - having ever been a kind and affectionate daughter. Her father, Cornelius Miller, died in 1879, and left behind many friends, who will ever deplore his loss. He joined the Baptist Church, in his 73d year, and, except when confined to his room by sickness, was never absent from his place. Mrs. Miller is a member of the Christian Church, and is a devout Christian. She is left well provided for, having a nice farm near Troy, and two of her children near her ; Martha W. was, for several years, a teacher in the public schools, and as an instructress gave great satisfaction. Her demise occurred Oct. 15, 1879 ; she was a true Christian, and always led a pure and upright life.

H. H. MILLEB, farmer ; P. 0. Troy ; was born in Miami Co., his parents being John V. and Bebecca Miller ; John V. emigrated to Miami Co. from Virginia in 1833, and was wedded to Miss Bebecca Kessler in 1834 ; they were the parents of eight children, of whom six are living. Henry H. married Miss Hester B. Enyeart March 17, 1867 ; their three children were born in the following order : Edwin M., Oct. 6, 1869 ; Josie, Nov. 24, 1872; and Bertha, May 19, 1877. Mr. Miller and his brother Isaiah own the steam saw-mill that is located midway between their respective residences ; this is an industry that has been of great service to the people living in their neighborhood. H. H. Miller purchased his farm prior to his marriage, and last year erected a splendid residence. The farm comprises 279 acres, nearly all of which is under cultivation. Although from choice a farmer, being highly educated in both Latin and Greek, his intention was to follow the profession of teaching ; he did for a time teach in Iowa, and was an efficient member of the Educational Board. Both himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He may be classed among the conservative Democracy of the county. His library is composed of miscellaneous works, being continually supplied with books of merit ; his education was obtained at Delaware College, during the sessions of 1861-62-63 and '64. This is the finest educational college west of the mountains. His specialty in stock-raising is breeding fine sheep, of which his flock equals any in the county ; his farm is an elegant one, and the view obtained from the residence is equal to any afforded in this neighborhood.

FBED MILLEB, manufacturer of harness and saddles, Troy ; was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1827 ; his trade was learned in his native country, and in 1850, emigrated to America, landing in New Orleans, this voyage occupying 100 days. In St. Louis, he worked one year at his trade, then went to California with the intent of digging gold, but six months' experience taught him the value of his trade, which he applied himself to for two years ; returning to New York, he wandered nearly over the States. In 1859, he located in Troy, and since has given his attention to supplying the increasing demands of his many customers. He usually gives employment to half a dozen first-class workmen, and it is safe to say he commands fully 75 per cent of the trade at this point. In 1858, he was married to Maggie Honeyfeugle, who bore him two children - Lusetta and Maggie. Mrs. Miller died in 1862, aged 25 years. His second marriage was celebrated with Bosalia Schnell, by whom he has had five children, four living - Charley, Willie, Clara and Walter. He and his wife are life-long members of the Lutheran Church. He has accumulated a nice property, consisting of two large salesrooms and two dwelling houses, all well situated.

WILLIAM MILLER, grocer and dealer in refined liquors, Troy ; born in Virginia in the year 1814 ; was the son of John Miller, who was born in Virginia Feb. 19, 1770. Jane, mother of William, was born in Pennsylvania Nov. 26, 1784. Their marriage was consummated in Pennsylvania, and in 1832 the}' removed to this county and located in West Milton, where they resided one year, then went to Montgomery Co., Ohio, and in the spring of 1834 settled on land in Monroe Township, this county, on which they lived till their death. His father died May 3, 1857, aged 87 years 2 months and 14 days ; Jane, his wife, died Aug. 3, 1852, aged 67 years 8 months and 7 days. They were the parents of twelve children, five living - William, Levi, Sarah, now Mrs. Bear ; Jane, now Mrs. Brock, and Isaiah ; the deceased are Zachariah, aged 79 years 1 month and 14 days ; Jacob R., Samuel, Mary Simonds, nee Miller ; James, Elizabeth Butler, nee Miller, and John V. Our subject was reared on the farm in Virginia, and after his arrival in Ohio engaged in different pursuits, but gave his attention chiefly to farming, which he followed till his removal to Troy, May 22, 1853 ; there he engaged in the grocery business in the same house he now occupies, carries a good stock of the choice brands of family groceries and the purest liquors in the market. Dec. 1, 1857, he was married to Mary E. McKnight, nee Louthan, by whom he had four children, two living, viz., Samuel J. and Lina E. ; the deceased are Laura L., aged 4 months, and Tully H., aged 14 months and 24 days. Mrs. Miller died Oct 15, 1873, was born Oct. 6, 1821. John McKnight, her first husband, was born Nov. 10, 1812, died Dec. 31, 1854 ; to them five children were born, three living - John K., William Q., Joseph R.; the deceased are Henry C. and Elias H. Mary, sister of our subject and wife of B. F. Simonds, died Sept. 3, 1854, aged 41 years 4 months and 18 days ; Elizabeth, wife of S. M. Butler, died Dec. 3, 1855, aged 34 years 11 months and 19 days.

W. H. NORTHCUTT, County Commissioner, Troy ; was born in Lost Creek Township in 1828 ; his parents, George and Judith (Hance) Northcutt, ranking among the first settlers of the county. George Northcutt was born in 1805, and his wife in 1804 - she in Kentucky, and he in Warren Co., Ohio. He is now living in Iowa, and is a hale and hearty man. While W. H. Northcutt was still a lad, he evinced a great love for the carpenter's trade, which he afterward learned, devoting a number of years to contracting and building. Many monuments of his skill are to be seen in this as well as other townships in the county. He now resides on his farm, near Troy, attending to his official duties as County Commissioner, which position he has held five years. His official life has extended over a period of nineteen years. We have no wish to flatter Mr. Northcutt, knowing his aversion to being spoken of, even in complimentary terms, but the reputation of a man cannot fail to be genuine who so fully enjoys the confidence of those who have known him from boyhood. During the month of January, 1851, his marriage with Miss Lydia A. Earnhart was celebrated, and their married life was a happy one. They had no children, but were parents in trutli to Lizzie (Westfall) Northcutt and Moses B. Earnhart, who both received an excellent education while living with them. Mrs. Northcutt was called from earth in April, 1877, since which time her adopted daughter, now Mrs. Otto Kerr, has superintended the management of the household affairs. Mrs. Northcutt was a lady of lovely disposition, with great attractiveness of manner, and her death was a sad blow to her husband. She left a sorrowing multitude to mourn her loss. Mr. N. is a prominent member of Coleman Commandery, and a valuable acquisition to society.

JAMES T. ORBISON, carriage-blacksmith, Troy. One of the most interesting biographical sketches that appears in the Concord Township series is that of James T. Orbison, the eldest son of Henry and Mary A. Orbison, who were among the early settlers in this county. They came from Lexington, Va., in 1807, and settled on the* quarter-section upon which now stands part of the town of Piqua, and the D. & M. depot. His father was one of the first distillers in the Miami Valley, and the first still was capable of making only one barrel of whisky per week. He afterward became one of the strongest temperance advocates, and would not allow his team to haul logs to make staves for a whisky barrel. He was in the war of 1812, and did his whole duty at his own expense, loading a sled with flour, whisky and provisions for the soldiers on the frontier. James T. Orbison, the subject of this sketch, was born in Spring Creek Township Sept. 18, 1810. When about 2 years old, some Indians passing by, while he was playing in the yard, picked him up and carried him away. His mother hastily informed her husband, who mounted his horse and pursued them. When they were overtaken, he demanded the child, which was reluctantly given up. Soon afterward, his father purchased the farm, now owned by John Peterson, in Staunton Township. Young Orbison attended the district school near his father's farm, and received a good education for those early days. His teachers were James Concannon, Joseph Rollins, Sallie Tucker, David Blue, Jonathan G-erard, John Carey, Dr. Stewart and 0. C. Evans. He worked for his father until the age of 19, when he concluded to learn the blacksmith trade ; went to Cincinnati and became an apprentice of Henry Yalette, for whom he worked two and a half years. He was so apt at his business, and obliging withal, that his employer gave him the last six months of his time, with full pay (this, at that time, was only $40 per year and board). After leaving Mr. Yalette, he went to Louisville, Ky., and worked there eight months ; but, liking the society of Cincinnati better, he returned, and engaged with William Holyoke at $1.25 per day and board. The shop was located where the National Theatre building now stands, and Cincinnati was then only a small place. After eighteen months' work for Mr. Holyoke, he returned to Troy, and in September, 1834, opened a forge on his own account. Having now spent thirty-live years as a single man, he became engaged to, and soon after married, Miss Elizabeth J. Adams, second daughter of David Adams. They at once commenced housekeeping, in the good old-fashioned way, and their honeymoon was spent under their own roof. They lived on the corner of Main and Oxford streets, and here their first child was born, on April 2, 1847 ; her name was Mary E., and she afterward became the wife of James C. Robb, and is now living at Ft. Bennett, Dakota Territory ; the next child, Julia E., was born Jan. 21, 1849, and is now the wife of Ringgold W. Meily, of Lima, Ohio ; James L. was born Sept. 21, 1851, and is now married to Miss Eva Yankirk, of Cincinnati, in which city they now reside ; Alice J. was born Jan. 5, 1855, and is now the comfort of her father, and the pet of the family. But trials come to us all, and, after a long illness, the loved wife was tenderly laid to rest by the side of her kindred in Rose Hill Cemetery, March 28, 1862. For more than a half-century, James T. Orbison has been an active mechanic, and still makes a full hand at the forge. He has, in his possession, the funnel through which the whisky was drawn at his father's still seventy-four years ago, and also a plowshare that his father brought from Yirginia in 1806. He is an excellent talker, possessed of a very retentive memory, and we are indebted to him for many things of interest that appear in this work. He belongs to no church, but attends Presbyterian services. He is now comfortably located in a neat, substantial cottage at 419 Walnut street, between Franklin and Canal streets, and his latch-string is always out for his friends.

MRS. ANNA B. PAUL, hotel-keeper, Troy. Mrs. Paul was born in Germany May 4, 1832 ; she is the daughter of Michael and Amelia M. (Schauer) Lischler both natives of Germany ; he was one of the German revolutionists, serving as driver ; he emigrated to this country in 1838, and settled in Springfield, Ohio, where he resided till the time of his death, which occurred in November, 1876 ; he followed the occupation of farmer during this entire period. Mrs. Paul's first marriage was with Jacob Braunschweiger, in May, 1856, with whom she lived happily for seven years, and by whom she had three children, viz., Emma L., born May 2, 1857 ; Gusta E., July 20, 1858 ; and George, Nov. 12, 1859 ; her second marriage was celebrated with Louis Paul March 4, 1867 ; four children were the result of this union, viz., Charles, born Feb. 13, 1868 ; Louis, Jan. 10, 1870 ; Anna, Nov. 27, 1871 ; and Edward, March 21, 1873 ; Mr. Paul was born in Baden, Germany, Aug.

23, 1829, and passed from this life Jan. 14, 1876, after keeping the Galt House, in Troy, for five years ; Mrs. Paul continues keeping hotel since the decease of her husband, and, by dint of good management and hard labor, has kept everything in good repair, and has an extensive custom. She is a member of the German Lutheran Church, with which she has been connected since she was 14 3rears of age.

W. L. PEARSON, dealer in groceries, Troy. He was born in Troy Sept. 10, 1836, and was the son of Joseph Pearson, who was bom in Cumberland Co., Penn., Jan. 23, 1809, and with his parents came to Ohio, settling in Staunton Township ; his father learned the saddler's trade with a brother-in-law, Mr. Skinner, which he followed some years ; he also attained considerable prominence in official life, discharging the duties of Sheriff two terms, was Probate Judge a similar length of time, was Justice of the Peace many years, and Postmaster during two Presidential administrations ; he was an eminent lawyer, and a man of large mental caliber. Politically, he was Democratic, and a leader of that party, whose worth was recognized by" all political factions ; Mr. Pearson was a self-made man, in the fullest sense which the term implies. The early life of our subject was spent in Troy, where he received the rudiments of an education, which has been developed by his large experience in business life ; in 1856, in this place, he embarked in the grocery business, which he operated in some years ; in partnership with his brother J. E. Pearson, he engaged in the dry-goods business, in which they continued eight years, until J. E. Pearson's death, when the stock in trade was disposed of ; for a time, Mr. Pearson rested from the turmoil of an active business life to recruit his failing health, after which he engaged in his present business, carrying one of the finest stocks in Troy ; his long acquaintance with the people, in conjunction with his popular business habits, commands for him a large and increasing trade. June 9, 1864, he was married to Lorena A. Conrey, who bore him one child, Lorena M., deceased ; Mrs. P., is a daughter of Peter Conrey, one of the pioneers of Butler Co., who died in Centerville, Ind., and was connected with the prominent Methodist divines of his name ; her mother is living and resides with our subject ; he and his amiable wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are exemplary Christian people. Maria Ludlow, mother of W. L., was born Sept. 19, 1816. She was married to Joseph Pearson Nov. 8, 1835, who died May 31, 1871.

GEORGE H. PEARSON, proprietor livery, feed and sale stable, Troy. The above gentleman is one of the representative business men in Troy ; was born in the above place May 3, 1845 ; is the fourth child of Joseph Pearson, whose biography appears in this work, receiving in the village schools his education ; when 14 years of age he entered mercantile life, and, with the exception of a year passed in learni which time he was also engaged in farming; he located in Troy, in 1866, and engaged in the nursery business, under the firm name of J. W. Ross & Co., continuing in the same until his death, in July, 1877. Mr. Ross was a very kind, generous and affable man, beloved by all who knew him ; his business was such that he gave employment to a large number of men, all of whom held him in high esteem ; was a leading spirit in public affairs ; a man of great energy and enterprise, and was ever active in pushing forward all public improvements ; his name stands identified with every step taken, looking to the beauty and improvement of Troy, since his advent into the town. In politics, he was an ardent Democrat, and labored hard for the success of his party ; was an attendant of the Presbyterian Church, and was among the most liberal of its support. In 1846, he married Francis E. Louthan of Tro}*, who was born in Virginia, and came to Miami Co., with her parents when 10 years old. This union was blessed with five children, all of whom are now living in Troy.

SAMUEL RUSSELL, farmer ; P. 0. Troy. Samuel Russell is a prominent farmer, born and raised in Monroe Township. His father, Isaac Russell, came to the county in 1806, and his mother in 1802. The maiden name of Samuel's mother was Tamar Mendenhall, a native of North Carolina. Although a farmer, Mr. Russell has done considerable carpenter work ; he married Miss Harriet Franklin in 1843 ; they were the parents of Louisa, Margaret A., John, Jane, Isaac, Samuel L. and Jesse M. Louisa and John are not living. Margaret is the wife of Jacob Cane ; Mary J. wedded James H. Snavely ; John married Miss Elizabeth Cane ; Isaac married Miss Joselia Curtis. The home farm comprises 50 acres, which was improved by Mr. Russell ; he is a Republican in politics ; both himself and wife are members of Monroe Grange. Should we be asked where true happiness reigned, the answer would be, in the home of Samuel Russell and his worthy lady.

C. R. SABIN, dentist, Troy ; was born in Troy Sept. 9, 1847 ; is the second Son of Roswell and Caroline A. Sabin, who were of New England birth. They located here about 1823, making a permanent home till their decease ; his father died in March, 1873, aged 75 years ; his mother departed this life three days after her husband, at the age of 68 years. They had four children, three of whom are living. His father's first marriage was celebrated with Mary H. Robinson, of Virginia, by whom he had four children, three living ; Mrs. S. died, July 23, 1843, aged 44 years. Our subject received the rudiments of his education in the schools of Troy, after which, during the years 1866-67, he took a full course of study in the Dental College in Cincinnati, .which institution conferred on him their diploma, of graduation ; he afterward entered on the practice of his profession in Lima where he remained four years. In 1872, he came to Troy, where he has built up a large and constantly increasing practice ; he is a gentleman well educated to his business and to be measured by his success, and the satisfaction given to those who have experienced his skillful treatment. In 1873, he was married to Clara Reed, who has borne him one child - Nellie. Mrs. S. is a daughter of G. B. Reed, a former resident of Troy, in which she (Mrs. S.) was born in 1855.

JOHN SCIIAUER, farmer ; P. 0. Troy. Mr. John Schauer came from Greene to Miami Co. in 1865, and we find him living on a fine farm three and a half miles west of Troy, on the Newton Pike ; he is a practical farmer, the neatness of his surroundings giving evidence of his prosperity ; he was born in Greene Co.. Ohio, July 21, 1821, being the eldest son of Samuel and Catharine Schauer ; in his 17th year, he commenced clerking in his father's store, in Byron, Ohio, and continued with him until, in 1846, he purchased the stock and carried on the business (associated part of the time with a partner) for fifteen years. He made a visit to the home of Rev. John Lehman, his former Pastor, who had removed to Lancaster, Penn. ; one evening, while taking a drive over the country, they stopped at the home of Mr. Jacob Bope for the purpose of resting and having a chat with the minister's friends ; Mr. Bope had a very interesting family, and John became infatuated with the eldest daughter, Maria ; their friendship ripened into love, and, after a limited correspondence, they were married June 14, 1849, at the residence of the bride's parents ; his beloved Pastor, Rev. John Lehman, pronounced the magic words that linked together two loving hearts, whose after life gave evidence of their adaptation for each other ; they made their home in B}rron until Mr. Schauer disposed of his goods ; the close confinement of the mercantile business telling rapidly upon his health, he was obliged to seek some other occupation ; in 1855, he commenced tilling his father's farm, and continued doing so three years, when he purchased 80 acres west of Stillwater, which was his residence for seven }rears ; this farm was then disposed of, and Pearson's farm rented for five years ; purchasing the fine farm of 130 acres upon which he now resides ; he has erected a splendid house and otherwise improved it, until it ranks among the most attractive places in the township. Mr. Schauer is a self-made man, having but $500 when he came to Miami Co., owing to the dishonesty of those with whom he was associated in business ; seven children were the result of their union, of whom five are now living - Virgil C., Claudius F., Augusta C., Edwin M., Samuel J., Esta H. and Clara E. ; the children have had the benefits of a liberal education, and are all very fair musicians ; Mrs. Schauer, who was called to the spirit-land July 7, 1877, was a kind wife, a loving mother, and her loss was keenly felt ; since her death, the household affairs have been superintended by Miss Clara, who is a model housekeeper. Mr. Schauer has a very good family library, and is a great reader ; he is especially well posted upon agricultural topics, and is withal a pleasant and social gentleman.

R. Y. SHARP, manufacturer of carriages, Troy ; was born near Fredericksburg, Va., in 1821 ; his parents, Thomas and Sarah Sharp, were natives of the same State, his father dying before his birth, his mother when R. Y. was 5 years of age ; for three years after her death, he resided with a sister, then began the struggle of life for a support, laboring on the farm till he attained his 15th year, when he became an apprentice to his trade, in which he labored six years ; in 1841, he came to Troy, for the following eighteen years performing the work of a master mechanic ; in 1859, he embarked in his business with a partner, with whom he did business until 1868, at which time their shop and contents were burned to the ground ; his insurance enabled him to build another, since when he has been sole owner ; he employs a number of hands, skilled workmen, who, under his management and supervision, turn out the best work in the city, combining neatness and durability. In 1841, he was married to Emily Tullis, who has borne him six children, three living - Charles W., Ada and Rolla Y.; the deceased are Clara, Emma and William ; Mrs. S. was born in this count}T in 1821, and is a relative of the well-known Tullis family, who occupy prominent places on the pages of this work. He is a member of the Methodist Church, she of the Christian, both having been identified with their respective churches many years ; he is also a member of the Encampment and subordinate Lodge, I. O. O. F.

ECKERT SHEAFER. dealer in agricultural implements, 303 Walnut street, Troy ; is a man widely known and universally respected ; his life has been one of toil, but, nevertheless, he has maintained a great degree of good humor, is full of jokes, and courteous as a man can be who has fought a long and hard battle from boyhood ; he was the second son of Emanuel Sheafer, born J an. 3, 1 824, at Lancaster, Penn., and, at the age of 6 years, went to his grandfather's to live, who gave him the opportunity of obtaining an education such as the common schools afforded ; at the age of 21, he obtained a position in his uncle's store, and continued in his employ three years ; but, the close confinement being detrimental to his health, he severed his connection with the firm, coming to Staunton Township in 1848 ; he engaged with his uncle Eckert on a farm, working for him two }~ears ; a partnership was then formed with George Skinner, and they engaged in farming and raising stock until 1853, on the McDowell farm. His marriage with Miss Josephine Winans, a daughter of Judge J. C. Winans, was celebrated Oct. 9, 1851. The partnership with Mr. Skinner was dissolved by mutual consent in 1853, wrhen Mr. Sheafer moved to the Barbee farm, now the property of Mrs. John L. Meredith he took a trip through the Western States this year, and purchased 160 acres of land in Nebraska, but instead of emigrating, afterward disposed of it. Six children have been born during their married life, of whom five are living, the first son, Charles D., dying in infancy ; Rose, the eldest child now living, was born July 11, 1854; George 0., Nov. 20, 1856; J. Winans, March 8, 1858; Eckert, Jr., Jan. 15, 1866 ; Harry H., Feb. 9, 1868. In the spring of 1864, he enlisted in the 100-days service, and was elected First Lieutenant of Co. D, 141st U. S. I ; he made an efficient officer, and was honorably discharged from the sendee at the expiration of the term for which he had enlisted. He continued farming until March, 1879, when he sold his stock and removed to Troy, forming a partnership with J. E. Nysewander in the agricultural implement business ; the firm are prospering well, and are building up a good trade. His children have received a liberal education, and are all fond of literary pursuits ; the daughter, Rose, is a creditable musician and good vocalist ; their home is a pleasant one, Eckert and his wife most affable neighbors, enjoying the esteem of all who know them.

JESSE SHILLING, engineer of the fire department, Troy ; was born in Maryland in 1825, his parents, William and Hannah Shilling, being natives of the same State ; when only 2 years of age the}^ removed to Columbus, Ohio, where Mr. S. received his education, and, when old enough, was employed in a foundr}', in which he acquired the skill of engineering ; in 1854, he came to Troy, and soon after agitated the question of providing a fire department for the town, which was accomplished, he being employed as engineer of the department. In 1846, he married Alice Carlton, who has borne him seven children - Townsend, Olive, Mary, Jesse, Jr., Clara, Frank and Nellie. As City^ Marshal he has served two terms, and during the war was Provost Marshal of the county, acting under Capt. A. C. Deul ; as member of the Council and Constable of the township he has acted in each capacity a term.

JOHN W. SHOUPP, farmer ; P. 0. Troy. John W. Shoupp is a descendant of one of the worthy families of this county ; he is of German origin, was born in Pennsylvania July 13, 1846, and was the son of Henry and Elizabeth Shoupp; they immigrated from Pennsylvania in 1850, and settled in Montgomery Co. ; in 1852, they moved into Miami Co., near the line, and lived there five years ; they disposed of their property and came to Concord Township ; the farm was purchased upon which John W. now resides ; they had four children, of whom two sons and one daughter were born in Pennsylvania ; the second daughter, Annie E., was born in this county ; the death of the father, Henry, occurred Feb. 16, 1869 ; he was a most worthy man, and his death was deepl}7 deplored ; Mrs. Shoupp afterward married Tobias Barnhart, but died Sept. 13, 1879. The engagement of John W. Shoupp and Miss Susie Wilson terminated in marriage Oct. 29, 1868 ; two children now brighten their home - William Alberta and Ida Ma}' ; Ida was born Sept. 29, 1870, and William the same date, 1872 ; one other daughter, Mary, was born Aug. 5, 1869, dying July 24, 1870. John W. purchased the farm of his mother, who held it in her own right ; the residence is a comfortable one, the improvements being of a substantial character. This couple are happily mated, are both social and well-informed people ; Mrs. S. excels in the culinary line, and the edibles furnished by her skillful hand are fit for a king ; they are both members of the Christian Church, and are universally respected by all who know them. Politically, he votes the Democratic ticket " straight."

L. F. SINGER, proprietor of livery, sale and feed stable, Troy; was born in Frederick Co.. Md., in 1837 ; his father, Frederick Singer, and his mother, Elizabeth Switzer, were born in Maryland, and removed to Tiffin, Ohio, when L. was but 3 years old, where his father still resides, his mother being dead ; they were parents of four children - three living. Our subject's early boyhood was spent in Tiffin, where he received the rudiments of an education, which was developed by a course of study in the Antioch College, he being one of the first students enrolled on the books ; here he prosecuted his study two years ; then entered Bartlett's Commercial School in Cincinnati, taking the regular course and graduating ; after which he entered the Cincinnati Gazette office, in the role of Assistant Bookkeeper for seven years ; received a position in the United States Express office, in which he remained several }rears. In 1860, he married Miss Laura L., daughter of W. H. H. Dye, whose sketch appears among these memoirs ; after the celebration of his nuptials, he kept books for Dye & Culbertson several months, then was assigned charge of the business for one year, after which he purchased an interest, when the firm became known as Dye, Singer & Harter, and as such did business till the close of the war ; in 1866, he removed to Tiffin, and for nearly one year was engaged in milling ; the following year he removed to Montgomery, Ala., where he purchased a plantation, raising a crop of cotton, but the enterprise resulted disastrously to him financially ; returning to Tro}r, he refitted an old distillery, which he operated till 1869, when the financial crash of that year drove him to the " wall," and he found a position in the express office, which he had hitherto held ; his health failing he repaired to New York - engaged with Babcock & Co., for whom he sold goods throughout the West for three years ; they failing, he started a livery, which is stocked with the best turnouts in the city.

MBS. M. J. SKINNEB, gardener ; P. 0. Troy. Mrs. Skinner was the daughter of Henry and Mary A. Orbison, and was born, reared and married upon the home farm, of which mention has been previously made. Her marriage with Elias Skinner was consummated March 1, 1848, the Bev. Daniel Bice officiating ; eight children were the result of this union, of whom five still survive ; their names are J. Henry, born Sept. 12, 1851 ; George C., June 13, 1857 ; Kate E., March 7, 1862 ; Charles W., July 12, 1864 ; and James E., Dec. 21, 1867. Mr. Skinner was engaged in business near Troy until 1852, when he purchased an interest in the ice business at Louisville, Ky.; he removed thither and continued in business for two and a half years ; he then sold his interest and came back to Troy, and, together with W. D. B. Webb, purchased a stock of goods ; he afterward sold his interest and removed to a farm he had purchased near Troy ; his health failing, he came back to Troy the next season and engaged as Secretary of an insurance firm; in 1865, purchased 10 acres of land on Bidge avenue, and erected a comfortable residence, but that remorseless enemy of mankind, consumption, wound him more tightly in its toils, and he was laid by the side of his children in Bose Hill Cemetery, Jan. 14, 1873 ; Mr. Skinner was a kind and affectionate father, an exemplary Christian ; for many years the Superintendent of the Presbyterian Sabbath school ; he and his wife were both members of the Presbyterian Church. Henry, the eldest son, has, since the death of his father, kindly cared for his mother and the children, acquitting himself as becomes a dutiful son, well worthy of the name he bears. George C. is now chief operator of the American Union Telegraph Company at Troy. Henry was married to Miss Lizzie Leaf, of Troy, in December, 1876; the children all live at home with their mother, to whom they are very attentive. Miss Kate is a good vocalist, and a creditable performer on the piano ; the children are fond of literature, and are rapidly acquiring good educations. Henry is engaged in market gardening, and furnishes a full line of early vegetables for the Troy markets ; the family residence overlooks the city, and the picturesque landscape beheld from that point is one of great beauty.

FBANK M. STEBBETT, Postmaster, Troy. The above gentleman was born in Clark Co., Ohio, Oct. 18, 1845. Samuel W., father of Frank, was born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Nov. 19, 1810. Washington, father of Samuel, was a native of Virginia, and one of the pioneers of Ohio. Samuel W. was formerly a resident of this county, but now of Clark Co., to which he removed in 1842, and where he now resides. He was married to Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Ullery, in 1835, who bore him ten children, seven of whom are living, viz., Eliza, Lucinda, William H. H., Frank M., John A., Catherine and Ellen. The deceased are Jacob B., Benjamin G. and Lavina B. April 16, 1861, Jacob enlisted in Co. D of the 11th 0. V. I., being the first man from Pike Township, Clark Co., to enroll his name on the scroll of fame. The services this noble old regiment did for its country are so well engraven on the minds of the people, that in this work a reiteration of its valor is unnecessary ; suffice it to say, Jacob It. Sterrett was always found at the post of duty, and in the sanguinary and ever-memorable battle of Chickamauga, in Tvhich our forces suffered the extremity of severity, Jacob R. fell, badly wounded, pierced by enemy's bullets, on the 14th of September, 1863 ; he fell into the hands of the enemy, with whom he remained nine days before being exchanged, and during the latter part of the following month (October) died from the effects of his wounds, in the 22d year of his age ; his remains were secured, after several ineffectual attempts,, brought home and interred* in the McKendree Cemetery, where a beautiful monument has been erected to his memor}T. On Aug. 28, 1863, our subject enlisted in Co. D, of the 5th Ind. Bat. of 0. C., which was commanded by Maj. Ijams. Saw much active service in Southeastern Kentucky, contending with the many guerrillas that infested that region ; promoted to Commissary Sergeant Sept. 25, 1863; at the expiration of his term of service, he was mustered out in Cincinnati, Feb. 15, 1864 ; May 2, 1864, he re-enlisted in Co. I, of the 147th 0. V. I., and was soon after detailed, with seven others from his battalion, to the Coast Survey force, and laid out the National Cemetery on an estate of (Jen. R. E. Lee, which formerly belonged to the Washingtons ; after these duties were completed, he was appointed Clerk to the Adjutant General, a position he held until mustered out, Aug. 30, 1864 ; upon his return home, he entered the Delaware Wesleyan University, in which he remained during the school years of 1864 - 65 ; in June of the latter year, to recruit his failing energies and bodily health, took a trip to Europe, visiting England, Ireland, Germany, France and Holland, returning in the same year, decidedly improved in health and strength ; upon his return, he read law one year with Shellabarger, Good & Bowman, when, on account of failing health, he was again obliged to relinquish his designs ; after traveling for S. K. Harter & Co., ten months, he taught school in Tippecanoe City, Miami Co., Ohio, one }Tear, after which he traveled extensively for ten years, as a commercial salesman ; Feb. 22, 1879, he was commissioned by President R, B. Hayes as Postmaster of Tro}r ; the duties of the office have been so efficient^ discharged that this takes the lead among the best conducted and well regulated offices of the State, an honor the patrons are proud of, and a distinction Mr. S. is well able to retain. Sept. 19, 1872, he was married to Mabel, an accomplished daughter of Charles A. and Mary C. Binkley, residents of Troy ; she was born in the above place Oct. 20, 1 854.

LEVI SWITZER, farmer ; P. 0. Pleasant Hill. Mr. Switzer, one of the prominent farmers in this locality, now in the prime of life, is possessed of many sterling qualities ; he was born Oct. 22, 1837, in York Co., Penn., and is a son of Elizabeth and William Switzer ; they emigrated to Clark Co., when Levi was 14 years of age ; his occupation has alwa3rs been that of a farmer, and in it he finds both pleasure and profit. Miss Sallie E. Sigler and Levi Switzer were married Jan. 21, 1869, in Cumberland Co., Penn. ; their wedding tour was immediate^ from the home of the bride, to a firm in Miami Co. ; no time being spent in preliminaries, ' housekeeping was commenced in Newton Township, and neither have ever had cause to regret the day they plighted their troth to each other. Two children have thus far blessed their union - Jesse M. and Edward L. ; they were born in Newton Township, and are both promising lads and are now attending school. Politically, Mr. Switzer is a Republican; both himself and wife are members of the German Reformed Church, and are respected by all who know them. Mr. Switzer is a great lover of literature, and is especially well posted upon agricultural topics ; lie is withal a pleasant, social gentleman, and upon the general topics of the day is much better posted than most farmers.

MURRAY TELFORD, farmer ; P. O. Troy. Murray Telford is a grandson of Alexander Telford, one of the first settlers of this township. Much will be said of Alexander in this history, as he came to Troy in 1802 and erected a log hut somewhere in the neighborhood in which he passed the winter : Indians were then virtual owners of these beautiful lands, many were the depredations committed, and often would the early settlers hurry their families off to some of their neighbors, the better to protect them from the prowling bands of savages. Judge

Barbee and Alexander Telford entered the section upon which Murry now resides ; afterward dividing it, Alexander taking the south half. Murray, the subject of this sketch, is the second son of Janies and Mary Telford, born May 24, 1827 ; he obtained a practical education at the district schools, even at that early day, which, together with his well-known honesty and energy, have made him what he is to-day. April 5, 1866, his nuptials were celebrated, he leading to the marriage altar Miss Jane A. Scott, the second daughter of John and Elizabeth Scott, of Miami Co. ; the wedding ceremonies were conducted *by the Bevs. B. T. Drake and James McIntyre. After a brief wedding tour, they commenced married life on the Telford homestead ; their first child, Mar}T Elizabeth, was born May 29, 1867 ; twin boys came to gladden their Home Jan. 25, 1871, who were named Wilber H. and Walter S. Mr. Telford enlisted in Co. H, 147th 0. N. G., during the late rebellion, and served until honorably discharged ; he was attacked by typhoid fever while in the service, and since that time has not enjoyed very good health. He still superintends his farm, and by energy and industry, has accumulated a competency. The library is well stocked with books, and all the family are lovers of literature. His grandfather, Alexander, was a great accession to this neighborhood and made nearly all the wooden mold-board plows for his neighbors ; they driving his team while he did their work. Both Mr. and Mrs. Telford are members of the Presbyterian Church, their piety and good example being worthy of emulation. Mr. Telford has in his possession the gun which his grandfather carried during the Bevolutionary war.

WASHINGTON I. TENNEY, farmer ; P. 0. Troy. Washington I. Tenney was the eldest son of Dr. Elias and Margaret (Hatcher) Tenney ; born in Charlestown, Montgomery Co., in 1833 ; as his father was his teacher for many years, Washington received a liberal education ; his parents removed to Milton, Ohio, in 1848, and Washington commenced teaching school in 1850, Dr. Tenney being a teacher for twenty years, and his son, W. I. Tenney, a public instructor for twentythree consecutive years ; during this time, all his work was confined to Milton and the three school districts contiguous to it ; the son was appointed by the Commissioners, in 1873, to fill the unexpired term that was occasioned by his father's death, as Auditor of Miami Co. ; at the expiration of the term, he was nominated and elected by the Bepublican party to the same office, and the universal satisfaction given during his term of office caused his re-election to the same office for the second term, by over 800 majority. He purchased a splendid farm of 166 acres, one and a half miles west of Troy, in 1878, and, at the expiration of his official term, moved upon it, and has since followed the occupation of farming. He wedded Miss Jennie K. Kelly, daughter of Samuel and Mahala (Yount) Kelly, in 1858 ; their married life has been one of happiness and prosperity ; they have reared a family of eight children, who give evidence of following in the footsteps of their parents ; their names are Ida Belle, Francis Walter, Charles Elmer, Alice Bertha, Mary Estella. William Harold, George Lee and Horace Kelly ; they are rapidly acquiring an education, and are developing a great love for music, without doubt being the equals, if not the peers, of any family of the same number of children in the township, as musicians ; the eldest daughter, Ida, is a graduate of the high school of Troy, and delivered the valedictory at the commencement of the term in which she graduated. Mr. Tenney is a man of culture, and is very fond of books ; his library is well stocked with choice volumes, and he is lavish in his purchase of literature for his children ; Mr. and Mrs. Tenney lived one and a half years in Champaign, 111 ; while there, her father gave them a tract of land near Lawrence, Kan. ; they took possession of it in 1860, but the excessive drought of that }rear made light crops ; Mr. Tenney concluded that Kansas, as an agricultural country, was not just what he wanted ; he sold his entire crop for $25, on a year's time, and came back to Miami Co. ; he is now a fixture of the county, and enjoys the confidence and respect of all who know him.

WILLIAM I. THOMAS, deceased ; was born in Philadelphia July 4, 1796, and removed with his parents to Lancaster Co., Ohio, in 1808 ; he received his edu- cation in the Ohio University, of Athens, Ohio, from which institution he graduated in 1817 ; then read law with the Hon. Thomas Ewing, Sr. ; was admitted to the bar, and began the practice of his profession in Troy, in 1819. In 1822, he was appointed Postmaster, and in 1825 was elected Justice of the Peace ; he served six years as Prosecuting Attorney, and was Colonel of one of the militia regiments of the State. In 1836, he was elected to represent his district in the State Senate, which honor was conferred on him three consecutive terms, during which time he very zealously supported his former preceptor, Mr. Ewing, in his race for senatorial honors ; it is recorded of him that during his term of office he made the most remarkable speech ever made on the floor of the House, in opposition to the passage of a bill that was obnoxious to the masses ; the time occupied was from 4 o'clock P. M. till 8 A. M., sixteen hours, when his constituents arrived in sufficient force to defeat the bill. He was a Whig in politics until the death of that party, when he joined his old foes, the Democrats, and stumped the State for Buchanan in 1856 ; as a lawyer, he stood high in the profession ; was a convincing speaker and a very formidable adversary in debate. In 1869, while enjoying a tour through the Western States, recruiting his failing energies and bodily health, he was stricken down in Lawrence City, Kan., from congestion of the lungs, dying suddenly Nov. 6, 1869. He was married to Lucinda M. Neal Sept. 29, 1828 ; eleven children was the result of their union, five of whom are living, viz., Stanley Owen, born Nov. 24, 1835 ; Walter Scott, born April 8, 1838; Llewellyn, born March 2, 1843 ; Eugene B., born Jan. 1, 1846 ; Gilmer T., born Jan. 8, 1851. The deceased are Stanley, born July 11, 1829, died July 27, 1831 ; Owen, born March 28, 1831, died Sept. 3, 1833; Harriet H., born Aug. 20, 1832, died Aug. 31, 1833 ; Owen Stanley, born Aug. 14, 1834, died March 27, 1850 ; William I.. born Dec. 14. 1839, died April 12,1867 ; Arthur H.. born April 28, 1852, died July 27, 1853. Lucinda M. (Neal) Thomas was born in West Virginia Sept. 7, 1809 ; died April 19, 1856.

WALTER S. THOMAS, attorney at law, Troy. Walter Scott Thomas was born at Troy, Ohio, April 8, 1838 ; he is the son of William I. and Lucfnda M. Thomas, being the sixth child in a family of eleven children ; in 1852, he entered the Troy High School, and graduated in 1856, as the valedictorian of liis class ; in 1857, he entered the Sophomore class at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, from which he graduated in 1860 ; while at college, Mr. Thomas was distinguished for his clear perception and untiring industry, qualities that have since gained him a great measure of his success in his chosen profession. Although a good student in mathematics and the sciences, yet classical studies were his delight, and so proficient did he become in Latin and Greek that at his graduation he was crowned with the classical honor of his class ; after receiving his degree, he began at once the study of law, under the instruction of his father, and during the years 1861-62 he attended the Harvard Law School ; in the latter year he was admitted to the Miami Count}7 bar, and began the practice of law in Troy. But the country was then in the midst of the great struggle for national life, and laying aside his lawbooks and dreams of professional distinction, Mr. Thomas enlisted in the navy of the United States, where he served his country honorably, till the close of the war as a Master's Mate, in the Mississippi Squadron, under Admiral Porter. In the fall of 1865, he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Miami Co., and at the expiration of his first term, he was renominated by acclamation, and reelected by an increased majority. His administration of the Prosecutor's office was characterized by great vigor and efficiency. It was impossible to pick a flaw in any of Mr. T.'s indictments, and perhaps there has never been a larger proportion of convictions under the criminal code in Miami Co. than during his incumbency of the Prosecutor's office. Upon retiring from his official duties, he continued the practice of law, and by faithful attention to business, has built up a large and lucrative practice. As an attorney, Mr. T. is not of the bombastic sort, dealing in "sound and fury, signifying nothing,'' but he seizes the salient points in a case, and presents them with a clearness and force that produces conviction - and a favorable decision. Mr. Thomas stands high in the esteem of his fellow-citizens. He has enemies, as all positive and independent men have, but to name them where they are known is to pay Mr. Thomas a high compliment. Mr. T. is a conspicuous instance of a boy's growing right up in his own town into positions of trust and honor. In 1877, he was elected member of the Troy Board of Education, for which position he is well fitted b}^ taste and education, and so ably did he discharge his trust that he was re-elected to the same position with only a feeble opposition, in 1880. Mr. T. is yet a young man, and what he has accomplished in the past is only an indication of what may be expected of him in the future. His ripe experience, sterling integrity and indefatigable industry commend him to the confidence and esteem of all to whom his genuine worth is known.

L. A. THOMAS, florist, Troy ; is the fifth son of William I. Thomas, an old and prominent settler, whose sketch appears in this work ; he was born in Troy in 1842 ; his education was received in the schools of the place, and though his father and brothers were ambitious in professional aspirations, L. A. expressed a fondness for agriculture, and the s*tud}7 of plants and flowers, a talent and taste which are perfectly natural, and which have been cultivated until he is a proficient in the art. In 1875, he constructed the ground-work of his now almost perfect establishment, which is rapidly approaching completion, already having more room and a greater variety of plants and flowers than the combined houses in the countj7. He is a gentleman well versed in his business, his experience and knowledge being fully recognized by the lovers of plants and flowers, who give him a hearty support. Feb. 15, 1866, he was married to Kate Lee, a lady of culture and refinement, whose exquisite taste makes their beautiful home a pleasant place ; to them five children have been born, three of whom are living - William W., Guy L. and Llewellyn ; the deceased were Stanley 0. and one dying in infancy. Mrs. Thomas was born in Hancock Co., Ind., in 1848, and when quite young came to Troy. Both are members of the Presbyterian Church, with which they have been connected several years.

JOEL T. THOMSON, undertaker, Troy ; another of the old and well-known citizens of Miami Co. ; born in Troy, Sept. 8, 1819 ; was a son of Andrew and Catharine (Tullis) Thomson. His father was born in Virginia, and with his parents came to this county soon after the beginning of the present century ; he served during the war of 1812, leaving his wife and two children in Troy ; after his return he removed to Indiana, where he entered the land on which Muncie now stands, he being the first settler in that locality. After remaining three years in the above place he returned to Troy in 1824, only to meet the summons of death the night after his arrival. They were parents of six children, of whom the two youngest alone survive - John F. and our subject ; the deceased are Jane, Sarah, Eliza, David and Aaron. The latter was killed by a cow the spring following his father's decease. His mother died in 1861, aged 67 years ; his father dying when he was yet young, the care and comfort of his mother depended on him as he grew older ; he was bound to a gentleman for five yeats to learn the cabinet trade, and after serving two and a half j^ears, bought his time, went to Cincinnati, where he completed his trade after three years' labor, doing work in various towns. Beturning to Troy in 1840, he purchased an interest in an establishment, which he soon sold and invested in another, and since has been identified with the interests of Troy. In 1861, he ordered his hands to close up shop, that his country needed him, and must go to her defense. The boys, aroused by his patriotism, suggested that he remain and care for those who depended on them, and they would go, which they did, causing the abandonment of the cabinet business, and the founding of an undertaking establishment. Of the soldiers from this county who died in service and were buried here, he has carried seventy-eight out of eighty- one to their last resting-place. In the broad acceptation of the term, he is no political aspirant, yet he has held man}^ of the petty offices of the township. In 1841, he was married to Mahala Gilkerson, who has borne him eight children, six living - Emma,

Charles E., Walter, Mary, Elmer E. and Nettie ; the deceased - Frances and Wilbur ; the latter, was robbed and murdered in Hartford, Conn., when 21 years of age. Mrs. T. was born in Kentuck}7 in 1824.

JOHN T. TULLIS ; born in Georgetown, Franklin Co., Ky., July 14,. 1794 ; at the age of 10 he came with his father, Aaron Tullis, to Lebanon, Ohio, and in the succeeding year, 1805, the family pushed on toward Miami by way of Dayton ; leaving their father, mother and sister at the cabin of Col. Patterson, our subject, with the other boys, drove on with the wagons, cows and calves, to the farm now owned by Mr. Turner, which then was all a forest ; the cows and horses were belled and turned loose, and the calves were tied up with ropes ; the boys woke up next morning to find the horses gone, and the calves calling loudly for their dams, which were not there ; Mr. T.'s father, having married a second time, left the farm* to him ; after remaining here some time, during which he was elected Justice of the Peace, he disposed of his real estate and moved to Troy, where he entered into the dry-goods business ; subsequently elected Surveyor, he served for some time, and in 1841 was appointed Postmaster of Troy ; previous to this, however, he, in partnership with a Mr. Drake, published the Troy Times ; from this, he started a book-bindery and store, which, in those early days, was not very lucrative ; at this juncture, when Mr. T. was anxiously looking for a more lucrative business, Mr. Malin Morris came into the store one day and asked him how he would trade his store for his farm ; terms were agreed upon at once, and Mr. T. once more became a farmer, the new purchase being located two miles west of Troy, on the Covington pike ; he put up a neat little cottage and prepared to end his days here, but, his health failing, he was compelled a second time to remove to Troy, where, Aug. 25, 1877, he died ; Mr. T. was one of the early pioneers of this county, and for a number of years the last survivor of a family of ten. Aug. 5, 1816, he married Margaret Murray, born Jan. 6, 1796, who bore him a numerous family, only one of whom, Mary, survives ; after living together nearly three-score years, his wife left him alone while she joined " the immortal caravan. " Of the nine children born to them, Sarah, the oldest, died at 6 ; James Watson studied medicine, married a daughter of Dr. Lindsey, had five children, and died of consumption at 40 ; Gilbert died of consumption at 23 ; Hemy Gilmore and Charles Bayless, born 1830 - the former died in his 5th year, the latter in his 20th ; Mary Tullis, the only survivor, through severe sickness in early youth, became permanently afflicted in mind and body, but was preserved to be the comfort of her parents in their declining years, a charge which she most nobly and unselfishly fulfilled. Though a most devout Christian, eschewing the very appearance of evil and yielding not to temptation, Mr. Tullis was natural^ disposed to look upon the gloomy side of life, so much so that the cheerful voice of his wife and the studious care of his devoted daughter could scarce remove his sadness.

MRS. MARY WASSERMAN, Troy. Mrs. Wasserman and her husband have a place, not only in the hearts of the citizens of Troy, but also in the record of their county. John Wasserman was born in Bavaria, and Mary Crouer, in Wurtemberg, Germany, and were both young when they came from Germany ; when John came to New Orleans, he had no mone}', and his passage was paid in work ; he started West, working until he could get money enough to pay his way still further. He was 22 years of age when he reached Piqua, and soon after formed a partnership with Louis Schnyer, in the brewing business, which prospered greatly. In 1848, he came to Troy, engaging in the same business for a year. He was married, in 1843, to Miss Mary Croner, of Piqua ; they were the parents of thirteen children, eleven survive - Cardine, Charlotta, Charles, Edward, Henrietta, Amelia, William, George, Louis, Ida and Catharine ; Amelia married Mr. Charles Diehl, a druggist of Cincinnati ; Caroline is the wife of John W. Oblinger ; Edward married Miss Bertha Lehman ; Henrietta is the wife of George F. Norton, of Garrettsville, Ohio ; Charlotta was wedded to William Leidel, of Troy. Soon after coming to Troy, Mr. Wasserman engaged in the grocery business, and continued it for fortysix years at the same stand. He was worth, at the time of his death, in 1878, about $34,000. He was an honorable business man, enjoying the confidence of all with whom he associated in business. His sons, Charles and Edward, continue the business at the old stand, and are doing well. Christopher Croner, the father of Mrs. Wasserman, was the first Herman in Piqua. He was a baker by trade, and, during their early life in that city, he furnished bread for 300 Indians, who were encamped on the farm of Joseph Johnston. There were only a few log huts built on each side of the road, which is now Main street. Many changes have been made since then ; the log cabins being replaced by endless blocks of brick and business houses. Mrs. Wasserman lives in the house which is rendered doubly dear to her by the birth of her children and her long residence in it. She is well provided for ; the children near by are doing well, and a source of great comfort.

REV. J. P. WATSON, Pastor of the First Christian Church, Troy. Mr. Watson is descended from Welsh and English ancestry on the paternal, and from English stock on the maternal, side ; his father, Elijah Watson, was the son of Rev. Elijah Watson, of East Andover, N. H., a Baptist minister, whose father, Nathan, the third of his name, was born in Wales in 1729 ; he emigrated to New Hampshire in 1759, where, in 1819, aged 90 years, he died ; Mr. Watson's paternal greatgrandfather, Josiah Sawyer, came from England to New Hampshire early in the eighteenth century, and died, aged 90 years, in 1819 ; his mother was Eliza Palmer, whose grandparents emigrated from England early in the eighteenth century, but of whom he has little knowledge ; his ancestry served with distinction in the Revolutionary war. Josiah P. Watson, the subject of this sketch, was born in Lempster, N. H., June 29, 1838, and is, therefore, 42 years of age ; he is the fifth of eight children ; when a babe of 3 months, his parents removed to Nashua, N. H., in the schools of which city he received his education ; at 15 years of age, his parents removed to a farm near East Andover, N. H. ; at 16, he was converted, was baptized in Highland Lake, and entered the Christian Church of the village ; he at once felt seriously impressed that his life-work was to be that of the ministry ; before him, his grandfather and four uncles had been honored ministers ; he was very active in general church- work during the winter, both in his home church and in the schoolhouses around ; his strong natural sympathies led him much, also, to the Township Infirmary, where he conducted worship ; in the spring of 1855, he held meetings in the adjoining town of Wilmot, visiting from house to house and witnessing a limited work of grace ; singular^, the first person baptized by him was a convert of this meeting ; July 1, the same year, and two days following his 17th birthday, he preached two sermons (his first) in the adjoining township of Hill ; he now gave himself wholly to the ministry, and soon had much work on his hands ; a revival began in Hill, which extended to another part of the township, the adjoining townships of Danbury and Wilmot, and continued through the fall and winter ; June 13, 1856, in Wilmot, he was ordained to the ministry, Revs. P. M. Hershey, W. H. Nason and John Burden officiating - the latter preaching the sermon ; the Sabbath following, two weeks to a day before he was 18 years old, he organized a church in Wilmot and baptized seven adult persons ; the following winter he taught, and, in the spring, attended one session of the Andover Institute, meanwhile preaching to three churches ; in the spring of 1 857, he settled with the Christian Church of Bradford, Vt., but, health failing, he resigned at the end of three months and went to Illinois, where, in Ogle Co., he taught the following winter and spring, having, meantime, no regular charge, yet preaching irregularly, and seeing the most of his adult scholars converted ; he resumed ministerial work in the same county, in April, 1858, and in May, 1859, became Pastor of the Christian Church of Belvidere, the county seat of Boone Co., 111. ; with this church he remained nearly two years, and here, Oct. 13, 1859, he married Miss L. E. Witwer, the daughter of John Witwer, Esq., of Rockford, 111. ; Jan. 1, 1861, Mr. Watson became the Pastor of the Christian Church of Marion, Grant Co., Ind., and in October following, with leave of absence from his church, he accepted the chaplaincy of the 12th Ind. V. I., holding the position until they were mustered out in May, 1862, being, in their first enlistment, one-year men ; re-organizing, Mr. Wat- son was re-appointed chaplain, but, the regiment being immediately captured in the battle of Richmond, Ky., he resigned, and returned to his church in Marion, where he remained one year. Until 1871, he preached in Iowa and Illinois, nearly five years of the time with the Christian Church at Blackberry Station, in Kane Co. ; Jan. 1, 1871, he entered upon his duties as Pastor of the Troy Christian Church, which office he still holds ; during this pastorate, he has witnessed eighteen distinct revivals in his church in town and in schoolhouses about, and has received into fellowship more than 450 members - the present membership of his church ; in addition to his pastoral work, he has done much general work ; for two years he was Secretary of the Miami Co. Sunday-School Union ; for ten years he has been Secretary of the Denominational Assurance Association, and for eight years Secretary of the General Mission Work of his denomination ; meantime, in addition to numerous addresses on anniversary occasions, Odd Fellowship. Temperance, etc., he has published " A Manual for the Christian Pulpit," and edited the biography of Rev. A. J. Smith, a Baptist minister of this count}' ; this last work has had an extensive sale, and is well received ; Mr. Watson, for nearly twenty years, has been a constant writer for the press, contributing to various papers and magazines East and West; for the last twenty months, has averaged one column and a half of matter for his weekly paper in Dayton, without a single omission ; he enjoys and gratefully appreciates the general favor of the public, and has been honored with ten annual and unanimous settlements with his church, between whom and himself there ever has been a most harmonious feeling. His family consists of three sons - George Milton, Frank Elijah, Charles Evans - and one daughter - Jennie Palmer Watson. Though he has seen more than a quarter of a century in pulpit service, yet Mr. Watson is comparatively young, more vigorous than ever, easily preaches three times on the Sabbath, and does more general work than ever before ; withal, he does not esteem his labor hard ; would not willingly lessen it ; prefers rather that, in the right direction, it should continue to expand on his hands, and has a hearty relish for it ; his ambition is to honor his office and prove himself helpful to his fellows ; the reward he seeks is above.

W. II. WEDDLE, lumber-dealer, Pleasant Hill. W. H. Weddle, is, perhaps, as well known as any man in the township ; he is sole proprietor of the steam sawmill four miles west of Troy, on the Newton Pike ; he was born in Newton Township April 29, 1838, and was the son of Isaac and Margaret Weddle ; his early life was passed in a grist-mill owned by his father, and he had educational advantages that afforded him a practical education ; immediately after the war, he erected the mill which has been of such service to the farmers in this neighborhood. In August, 1862, he enlisted and served until the close of the war, being honorably discharged in May, 1865 ; he is the hero of twelve of the hardest-fought battles of the war, viz., Winchester, Mine Run, Locust Grove, Battle of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania Court House, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Monocacy, Opequan, Fisher's Ilill, Cedar and Sailor's Creeks ; this was the last battle fought by the Army of the Potomac ; a wound was received at Winchester, but he was not seriously disabled ; he was a gallant soldier, and as such deserves a place in the history of Miami County's gallant sons.

C. C. WETLAND, of the firm of Weiland & Lawton, dealers and manufacturers of furniture, Troy ; was born in Wayne Co., Iud., in 1847, his boyhood days being spent in the place of his nativity ; in 1856, he removed with his parents to Hardin Co., Towa, where he received his education, and was afterward engaged in mercantile pursuits for ten years in Iowa Falls ; he then came to Troy, and for four years was engaged in the dry-goods business, which he abandoned, and , in partnership with another gentleman, engaged in the manufacture and sale of furniture ; his partner dying August, 1878, his interest was purchased by a Mr. Lawton, his present partner ; they give employment to several skillful workmen, who manufacture a variety of plain, fancy and ornamental furniture, w hich no house in the city can compete with, and as honorable gentlemen, we commend them to the public. In 1870, Mr. W. was married to Mary J. Kelly, wrho has borne him three children, viz., Elizabeth, John H. and Bertha ; he and his estimable lady are members of the Baptist Church, of which he is Clerk, and also Superintendent of the Sabbath school.

G. K. WESTLAKE, farmer ; P. 0. Troy. Mr. G. K. Westlake, a life-time resident of this county, is a son of Josias and Sally Westlake, and was born in Monroe Township. He has always followed the occupation of farming, prospering in a substantial manner. He was married to Miss Mary I. Pearson, daughter of Eli and Rebecca Pearson, Aug. 3, 1864, Bev. William Jay tying the matrimonial knot. Her grandfather, Samuel Pearson, was among the earliest settlers in Miami Co. Both Mr. and Mrs. Westlake are descendants of early pioneers, and justly feel proud of their ancestry. They commenced housekeeping upon the spot they now live ; the old log house (a souvenir of early times) still stands, and was one of the first houses built in this neighborhood ; they have four children - Dora, Della, Viola and Eva, all of whom are intellectual and beautiful daughters, rapidly acquiring an education: Mr. Westlake has erected a splendid brick residence upon his farm, surrounding his family with many comforts. The farm is neatly kept, and the revenue derived from it is a substantial one. Both himself and wife are members of the Christian Church, as are also their two eldest daughters, Dora and Della. Politically, he is a Democrat, and one of the stanch kind. The family are fond of literature, well supplied with books and periodicals. His father, Josias Westlake, has lived ip Monroe Township, and is probably as well known as any man in the county, possessed of great erudition, and was formerly engaged in teaching. He, also, by his continued prosperity, became very wealthy, and after helping his children to obtain a good start in life, has nearly 200 acres left, which brings him a fine income. He was elected Colonel of the 0. V. L. I., in 1836.. Mr. Westlake and his wife will celebrate their fiftieth marriage anniversary this fall should they live, and as the old people are still hale and hearty, there is every prospect of the event being celebrated. He was for five years School Examiner of this county, and as such gave general satisfaction. Is a true Jacksonian Democrat ; reared a family of stalwart sons, who are also strong in the faith.

MARTIN A. WHITEMAN, retired, Troy ; born in the city of Philadelphia in 1828, there attending tile public schools until the year 1838, when he, with his parents, emigrated to Auglaize Co., Ohio, and, from this date, followed farming until 15 years of age. In 1843, he commenced the carpenter's trade at Piquar serving four years, after which he followed various pursuits for several years, when he moved to Toledo, and about the year 1850 located in Troy, where, until 1876, has been engaged in restaurant, grocery business, etc. At the above date he sold his establishment, and retired from active business. Married Jane Sherrer in Troy Dec. 27, 1863.