Findlay City (part 18 of 28)

JOHN MOREHART, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, born October 30, 1830, in Fairfield County, Ohio, is a son of Andrew and Mary (Cashner) Morehart, natives of Pennsylvania, and who came to Ohio in 1817; they were pioneers of Fairfield County, Ohio. In 1832 they came to Hancock County and settled on Section 10, Amanda Township. Andrew Morehart entered eighty acres of land, which he sold in a few years, and then bought eighty acres of a Mr. Brown, and entered 160 acres adjoining it, and there lived until 1855, when he bought 160 acres together with eighty acres now belonging to Mrs. Pratt, and here he lived the remainder of his days. Andrew Morehart was the father of thirteen children: Matilda (deceased), Mary A., Andrew J. (deceased), John, Adam (deceased), Jacob (deceased), Selina, Lydia, Alfred (deceased), Christian (deceased), Noah (deceased), David C. (deceased), and Henry. John, Adam, Jacob (who died November 13, 1885), David C., Andrew J. and their father served in the army, Andrew J., Adam and David C. dying there. The father came home and died from the effects of army life. John, the subject of this sketch, was wounded twice, the first time at Resaca, the second time at Atlanta, Ga., where he was captured by the enemy. He was in Andersonville Prison sixty-four days and then exchanged. He married, in 1854, Frances, a daughter of Charles and Alice Hill, who came from Pennsylvania to Hancock County, Ohio, in 1844. Mrs. Morehart is the eldest of five children who settled in Amanda Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Morehart have been blessed with twelve children: Alice V. (wife of John Leader), George C. (married to Josephine Howard), Alfred F. and Arminda (deceased), twins, John E., Henry L. and Laura E. (twins), Olive B. Mary C., Lucy J., William F. and Iona F. Mr. Morehart now occupies the old homestead of his father, a well regulated farm of fifty-nine acres. He is a member of the G. A. R.; also a member of the United Brethren Church.

WASHINGTON MOREHART, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, was born March 4, 1817, in Fairfield County, Ohio. His grandparents came from Westmoreland County, Penn., and were pioneers of Fairfield County, Ohio. Our subject, with his brother William Josiah and sisters Sarah and Maria, came to Hancock County, Ohio, in 1833, and began pioneer life on land which he and his uncle, Andrew (then a resident of Seneca County, Ohio), had entered some time prior to that date. They soon erected a cabin and began clearing their land with a view to making a home. In 1839 Mr. Morehart married Elizabeth, daughter of George Breiner, and by her he has three children: Malinda, wife of F. M. Lee; Caroline, wife of R. M. Lee; and Christiann, wife of Isaac Wohlgamuth. Mrs. Morehart departed this life in 1884. Mr. Morehart lived on his farm forty years, then moved to the village of Vanlue, this county, where he has since resided, but still owns and manages his farm. He had but little to begin life with, but has acquired a fair competency. He has filled the office of township trustee for several years, and is a man highly respected by his fellow townsmen. ©

County, Ohio, is a son of Gershom and Mary (Plotner) Plotts, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio in 1800. Gershom Plotts was one of the pioneers of Fairfield County and Hancock County, Ohio, and a soldier in the war of 1812, having enlisted in Fairfield County. He was three times married and was the father of ten children, eight of whom are still living: Hiram, Washington, Andrew J., John, William L., Ira, Oliver and Moses. In 1834 Ira Plotts, our subject, was brought to Hancock County with his parents, who settled in Amanda Township on Section 16, near Vanlue. Gershom Plotts remained in Amanda Township twenty years, and in 1854 he removed to Michigan, where he died. Ira Plotts went to Michigan with his parents, and in 1859 returned to Hancock County, Ohio, where he has since remained. He married, in 1854, Mary J., daughter of George Morehart, of Amanda Township, this county. To this union have been born ten children, five of whom are living: Ella, wife of S. C. Chesebro; Etta, wife of J. V. Rice; Augusta, wife of F. Cross; Alwilda J. and Sarah. In 1860 Mr. Plotts embarked in the grocery business, adding in 1863 the dry goods branch, and has been engaged in the grocery and dry goods business ever since. He has been a successful business man. He has served as justice of the peace six years. He has a farm near Vanlue, this county, on which he has passed a good portion of his time. In politics Mr. Plotts is a Democrat; a member of the I. O. O. F.

HARMON PRATT (deceased) was born in Fairfield County, Ohio; came to Hancock County in 1836 and settled in the woods. He was the youngest of eight children and was reared on a farm. In 1854 he married Elizabeth E., daughter of Josiah Shawn. This union was blessed with twelve children; ten are now living, viz.: Leroy J., married to Permelia Woodard; Leander C.; Laura A.; Lorenzo D.; Violet R., wife of William Smith; Freddie 8.; Etta Z.; Ann A.; Lucy D. and Oliver A. Mr. Pratt filled the office of trustee of Amanda Township, this county; was also school director. He was amember of the I. O. O. F. He died February 25, 1884, leaving a farm of 160 acres of the best of land.

JOSEPH SHULL was born September 15, 1815, in Franklin County, Ohio. He was married in that county in 1839 to Mary Huber, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio; born October 6, 1821. They settled in Franklin County, where they remained eight years, then moved to this county, where they have since resided. They were the parents of nine children: Francis, Sarahan, Clarissa, Amanda, Isabelle, Lewis, Catharine, Lenella, and Emery, all deceased except Francis, Amanda, and Isabelle. Clarissa was married February 15, 1864, to Philip, son of William Shuck, and died June

December 12, 1874, Henry, son of Stephen Lee, and died November 4, 1882, leaving one child, Roger. Francis married, December 14, 1873, Naomi, daughter of David Morehart, and they have two children: Joseph and Emma. Joseph Shull is a member of the Reformed Church, his wife of the Presbyterian Church.

JACOB SIDDALL, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, born January 11, 1836, in Mahoning County, Ohio, is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Slamaker) Siddall, who came to this county in 1848 and settled in Amanda Township, where they purchased land of John Claver. Joseph Siddall, who was a farmer, reared his sons to agricultural pursuits. His children were William W., Abraham, Jacob, Nancy (wife of Washington Myers) and Lucinda

(latter deceased). Jacob Siddall was educated in Hancock County, and married, in 1867, Amanda, daughter of John Misamore, one of the pioneers of this county, who is still living. To this union have been born the following named children: Elizabeth, Lydia, Zilla J., J. D. and Forrest (latter deceased). Mrs. Siddall is fourth in a family of eighteen children. Mr. Siddall has 165 acres of fine land on the Blanchard River bottoms, which was his father's old home farm. He is an energetic man and one of the leading farmers of Amanda Township. He devotes considerable attention to sheep raising.

PETER TREESE, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, born in December, 1830, in Amanda Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, is a son of Henry (who served in the war of 1812) and Elizabeth (Hager) Treese, natives of Pennsylvania. Henry Treese purchased land in Jackson Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, and October, 1830, came to this county and entered 160 acres of land in Section 24, Amanda Township. His was the third or fourth family in the township at that time. The Wyandot Indians frequently passed his place, going to and from their hunting. Henry Treese built a cabin in the woods, cut the first timber from the land, and there lived and reared his family of nine children, who assisted him on the farm. Those of his children now living are Sarah, wife of J. Durand; Elizabeth, wife of Uriah Selick; Mary, wife of James Shooly; George and Peter; Eliza, wife of J. Snider, died in December, 1862; John, died in 1862; Amos, died in 1861; Isaac, died in 1882. The subject of this sketch married, December 26, 1858, Martha, daughter of R. H. Bennett, and by this union there were eight children, seven now living: R. H., Isaac H., William H. (deceased), Olive E., Ella J., Mary E., Eva A. and Edith. Mr. Treese lives on the old homestead of his father, on which he has made many modern improvements. In 1881 he erected a fine house, and in 1883 built a commodious barn. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., a careful farmer, and has filled the office township treasurer.

JAMES M. VAN HORN, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, born January 11, 1829, in Bucks County, Penn., is the son of Charles and Sarah (Twining) Van Horn, natives of Bucks County, Penn. The Van Horns were originally from Holland, the earliest record of them in this country dating back to 1640, when they settled in New York. Abraham Van Horn, the great grandfather of our subject, came to Bucks County, Penn., with a number of his sons, who purchased, in 1720-22, the first land held by the family. His grandsons, Charles and Samuel, afterward came to Ohio. Charles Van Horn, born in Bucks County, Penn., was the youngest of twelve children, none of whom are now living. He married, in 1826, Sarah Twining, and by this union there were ten children. In 1832 he stopped one year in Jefferson County, Ohio, and came to Hancock County, Ohio, in 1838, settled in Amanda Township, bought 110 acres of land, entered another ninetysix acres, began pioneer life, and became one of the leading and successful farmers of his day. His children were George W., James M., Robert, Mary (wife of H. McUmber), Martha (widow of Mathias Marvin), Harrison (deceased September 28, 1837), Phebe (wife of Dr. J. A. Grove), Sarah (wife of William Carothers), Charles E. and John. James M. Van Horn was married in October, 1848, to Mary M., daughter of David and Elizabeth Morehart. By this union there are ten children: Sarah E. (wife of George Russell), Harriet A. (wife of A. F. Wise), W. S. (a physician in Mount

Blanchard, married Agnes A. Allison), James F. (married to Diana Wagoner), Martha J. (wife of S. B. Vansant); Iro, Elma F., Melinda, Lincoln, Ralph W. Our subject has a fine farm, and is one of the leading farmers of Amanda Township. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and also of {he Methodist Episcopal Church. His brother, John, who was born January 19, 1846, in Amanda Township, this county, married in March, 1872, Miss Anna Parker, by whom he has three children: Sarah, Earl and Virgil. He owns a part of the old home farm on which his parents lived for many years. He is of a cheerful disposition, and, surrounded by his pleasant family, resides near Blanchard Creek.

CHARLES E. VAN HORN, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, born April 17, 1848, in Amanda Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, is a son of Charles and Sarah (Twining) Van Horn, natives of Pennsylvania, and who were among the successful pioneer farmers of Hancock County, Ohio. Our subject was educated in Amanda Township, this county, reared on a farm, and became one of the prosperous farmers of his county. October 17, 1866, he married Elizabeth, daughter of John and Rebecca Smith, natives of Virginia, who settled in Wyandot County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with five children, of whom Annie A. and Lorena Garnet are living; the others died young. Mr. Van Horn, who is one of the prosperous farmers of this county, lives on the old home farm originally entered by his father, and on which he has made many modern improvements. It contains 100 acres of excellent land, and is under good cultivation. Mr. Van Horn is a charter member of Mt. Blanchard Masonic Lodge, No. 519, and member of the Commandery of Tiffin, also of the Ancient Order of Scottish Rites, of Cincinnati, Ohio.

SMITH VAN HORN, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, born August 26, 1826, in Bucks County, Penn., is a son of Samuel T. and Phebe (Twining) Van Horn, natives of Pennsylvania. Samuel T. Van Horn came to Ohio in 1834. He was twice married. His first wife, nee Phebe Twining, bore him five children: Jacob (deceased), Charles, Isaac, Sarah (wife of William Richardson, of St. Joseph County, Ind.), and Smith, our subject. His second wife was Mrs. Sarah Delph, a widow, and by her he had two children: Mary J. (wife of Alfred C. Russell, in Michigan), and John, in Jackson County, Oreg. Samuel T. Van Horn resided one year in Monroe County, and then moved to Big Spring Township, this county, where he passed the remainder of his days. Smith Van Horn received his education in the county schools, and became an efficient teacher. Of twenty years of his early life, the first ten were spent in teaching durimg winters and farming during summer, and occasionally going to school a term either in fall or spring. The last ten were devoted to teaching and superintending union schools during the entire school year. Was once offered the mathematical chair of the Moore's Hill College, Indiana. He married, November 22, 1857, Martha E. Wiseman, and to this union four children have been born: Alma, wife of William Watermire; Flora, Minnie M. and Bessie. In 1869 Mr. Van Horn purchased from his father-in-law a fine farm of 112 acres of land. He is a Republican in politics; has held the office of school director twelve years; was a member of the township school board most of that time, and is an attendant of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He acquired his education and property by his own exertions, and has been successful. His library is one of the finest in Amanda Township.

JOSEPH BARINGER, farmer, P. O. West Independence, was born June 16, 1822, in Hagerstown, Md., son of Baltus and Mary (Killinger) Baringer, natives of Germany, and who came to Maryland in an early day and a few years later moved to Ohio, settling in Stark County in 1823 or 1824, where they remained for eight years, after which they removed to this county and settled in Big Lick Township. Here they entered land in Section 2, near what is now West Independence, and there resided until their death. They were members of the Albright Church and were among the well-to-do farmers. They were parents of the following named children: Catherine, wife of A. Wyant; Joseph; John; Dolly, wife of D. Wyant; Caroline, wife of A. Wyant; Sarah, wife of J. Hoffman; Lucinda, wife of N. Bish; Lydia, wife of D. Dounsey; and Mary Susanna (deceased wife of T. Swift). Joseph Baringer acquired his early education in the pioneer schools and was reared a farmer, becoming an expert in that occupation. April 17, 1853, he married Sarah, daughter of David Young, and by her he has two children, David and Aaron; the latter married to Allie Smith; they have one child, John. Mr. Baringer now vuccupies the old home farm, consisting of 222 acres of excellent land under a good state of cultivation. On it there is an orchard, now in full bearing, which his mother planted. He has made many improvements on the farm, erecting good barns and other farm buildings, and, in 1862, he erected the fine brick residence which he now occupies. He is one of the skillful and successful farmers of Big Lick Township. In politics he is a Republican. The family are connected with the United Brethren Church.

G. W. BROWN, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, was born in Marion Township, this county. October 4, 1844, son of William and Octavia (Kendle) Brown, natives of Virginia. William Brown came to Ohio about 1835 and rented land in Marion Township, this county, and in 1837 he entered land in Section 82, Big Lick Township, this county, where he and his wife passed the remainder of their lives. They were parents of seven children: William; Jackson; Mary A., widow of Mr. Flenner; Sarah, married to Amos Treece (both are now deceased); Harriet, wife of G. W. Corbin; Octavia, wife of Henry Cross. and G. W. The subject of this sketch enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, August 15, 1862, and served three years, during which time he participated in the campaigns through Georgia and Tennessee, taking active part in all the promi. ' nent battles of those campaigns. He became badly crippled from rheumatism but otherwise escaped injury, with the exception ofa few slight bruises. He retired from the service in July, 1865, and June 20, 1867, he was married to Julia A., daughter of Charles Cross, of Amanda Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Brown reside on the old home farm, a fine piece of land in Section 32, of Big Lick Township. :

(Stockman) Chambers, natives of, Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively. Elias Chambers, who was of English descent, came to Liberty Township, Crawford Co., Ohio, about 1824 or 1825, entered 120 acres of timbered land and cut the first timber from his land and built a cabin. His family at that time consisted of wife and one thild - Susan, now the Widow Steen, residing on the old home farm, in Crawford Co., Ohio. Afterward there were born to Elias and his wife six other children: William (deceased), whose widow now occupies part of the old home farm in Crawford Co., Ohio; Catherine, wife of J. Steen; Peter (deceased), David, Daniel and Aaron. Our subject acquired his early education in the schools of Crawford Co., Ohio, and married, April 26, 1859, Sarah A. Sargent, daughter of Samuel and Eliza (Smith) Sargent, of Hampshire County, Va. (now West Virginia), who came to Ohio in 1825. To Mr. and Mrs. Chambers were born Nora C., David W., Greely, Della, Clinton, Cora and Wesley. David Chambers came to this county when a young man and after traveling over a good share of the county and laboring in various places, he began work with his uncle, William Chambers, on the farm which he, David, now owns. It is now a highly cultivated and well improved farm, with substantial modern buildings and other improvements thereon, situate in Section 35, of Big Lick Township, this county. Starting out.to win his place in this world, with no capital but a stout heart and a resolute will, he has been successful, and is to-day one of the thrifty farmers and respected citizens of Big Lick Township, this county, and has filled, with credit to himself ahd the satisfaction of his fellow townsmen, the offices of constable, trustee and other township offices.

JOHN W. COLE, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, was born in Ashlaud County, Ohio, January 2, 1832, son of James and Rachael (Webster) Cole, natives of Deluware, who came to Ohio more than fifty years ago, locating in Huron, Erie County, and from there went to Richland, Vinton Co., Ohio. Perry Cole, our subject's grandfather, died in the State of Delaware, and his widow after the family moved to Richland County, Ohio. The family afterward moved to Ashland County, Ohio, and from there to this county, in 1864. The subject of this sketch went from Ashland County, Ohio, to Eaton County, Mich., and there remained four years. He was married, in 1853, in Ashland County, to Sarah McCree, and by her he had seventeen children (of whom sixteen are yet living): Jennie, James (deceased), William, Elmer, Marietta, Mintie A., Charles, Jay, Letitia, Dilman, Benjamin, Clinton, Lem, Ralph, Irvin, and Jennettie and Rosettie (twins). John W. Cole resided in Marion Township, this county, for a time, and from there came to Big Lick Township, where he bought land from Henry Shoemaker and afterward purchased an additional sixty acres, making his present farm consist of 140 adres of fine farming land, well cultivated and improved. In politics our subject is a Republican. He and the family are connected with the United Brethren Church.

CHRISTOPHER GARBER, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born in February, 1847, in France, son of Peter and Barbara (Sattzman) : Garber, natives of France. They came to America in 1851, settled in Bio Lick Township, this county, and bought land from William Ilef and David Roberts, and still reside here. They are the parents of three children: Peter Ellen, wife of E. Chimin, and Christopher. Our subject was married, De. cember 5, 1872, to Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Leonard, an old pioneer of this county; they have one child, Leroy. Mr. Garber is a thrifty farmer; his farm is a part of his father's first purchase in Big Lick Township, this county. In politics our subject is a Democrat.

ROBERT LONG, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born in Kentucky, February 23, 1801, son of John and Isabella (Thompson) Long, natives of Pennsylvania, who moved to Kentucky in an early day. Short time later they came to Fairfield County, Ohio, and in 1826 to this county, where our subject and parents were among the first settlers in what is now Big Lick Township. They were in the county some time before they took up land, but finally entered in Section 21, of Big Lick Township, where the subject of this sketch now resides. Robert Long was the third in a family of nine children, of whom only two survive: Robert and Jeptha. He married, in 1832, Polly, daughter of Philip and Hannah (Hull) Essex, pioneers of Big Lick Township, this county, and to this union were born four children, of whom only one survives, Margaret, wife of John Lovengood. Mrs. Long dying, Mr. Long afterward married Mary, daughter of John and Mary (Northcutt) Graham, also early settlers of Big Lick Township, this county. To our subject's second marriage were born seven children: James W. (deceased), Malinda, wife of Jacob Weller; Nancy Jane; George W.; William H. (deceased); Mary A. wife of R. Blair, and Elizabeth, wife of John Tawney. Mr. Long loved pioneer experiences, and still thinks that a life spent in the wild woods in hunting is far preferable to living in modern cities or towns. He is connected with the Methodist Church. In politics he is a Republican. His son, George W., was married in November, 1878, to Nancy J. Stininger; they have two children living, Laura L. and Wilson S. George W. Long now owns his father's old home farm and also eighty acres adjoining it in Section 16, Big Lick Township. His mother died August 9, 1879.

MOSES McANELLY (deceased) was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1805, son of John and Mary McAnelly, natives of Ireland, who came to America in an early day. Moses McAnelly came to this county in 1836 and married here, the same year, Mary, daughter of William and Nancy (Teeters) Roller, and to them were born eight children: William (deceased), Mary (wife of M. McAnelly, a cousin, have ten children), Nancy (wife of Nathan Thomas, have no children), Lucinda (wife of Charles Beemer, have five children), Charlotte (wife of B. Cole, have five children), Jefferson (married to Sarah E. Leonard, have six children); he is practicing law in Colorado, and is at present judge of Larimer County, Col.; J ohn (deceased), and Moses (married to Phebe E. Cooper, have two children). The subject of this sketch departed this life in 1852. His widow and a part of her family still occupy the old home farm in Big Lick Township. In politics Mr. McAnelly was a Democrat. He was elected to both branches of the State Legislature, to the House of Representatives in 1839, and to the Senate of Ohio in 1842. %

A. J. MOORE, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born September 23, 1827, in Beaver County, Penn., son of William and Nancy (Bayless) Moore, the former a native of Westmoreland County, Penn., and the latter a native of Washington, Penn. They married in 1823 and came to Ohio in 1841. They reared a family of nine children, eight of whom were born in Pennsylvania and one in Ohio: Samuel B., Andrew J., Casander J., John B., Benjamin F., Nathaniel H., Ann Eliza (wife of M. Marvin), James (deceased while young), and William H., the latter born in this county. The subject of this sketch was married, June 8, 1853, to Nancy, daughter of the pioneer John Moore, and to them were born six children: John F., William C., Samuel A., Mary (wife of A. Lacky), Nancy C. (wife of James C. Martin) and A. Jackson. Mr. Moore now resides on what was formerly the old home farm of his father-in-law, John Moore. He held the office of postmaster all the time his office was in existence, justice of the peace for three years, township clerk, trustee, supervisor and land appraiser, and has been school director and treasurer of Big Lick Township. He is a successful farmer, much respected by all who know him. He is connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN F. MOORE, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born June 30, 1854, in Big Lick Township, this county, son of A. J. and Nancy Moore, the former a native of Beaver County, Penn., and the latter of Ashland County, Ohio, and who came to this county in 1841 and settled in Big Lick Township. They were parents of six children: John F., William C., S24, Mary A., Nancy C. and A. J. John F. Moore married, January 17, 1877, Sarah E., daughter of Garret Lefferson, and to them were born two children: Calvin L. and Clyde M. John F. Moore has a fine farm of eighty acres of well improved land (formerly owned by G. W. Graham), with good buildings upon it. He is one of the enterprising young farmers of Big Lick Township. In politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN MOORE, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born near Lancaster, Penn., October 16, 1808, son of Hugh and Susan (Buckwalter) Moore, the former a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, and the latter of Pennsylvania. Hugh Moore came to America about the year 1800, and settled in Pennsylvania; of his ten children four are now living: John, William, Nancy (wife of William Nelson), and Amanda (wife of William Cole). John Moore came to Ohio with his parents in 1828 and settled in Richland (now Ashland) County. He was married, in 1833, to Agnes W. Roller, daughter of William Roller, a descendant of Capt. Weston, an old English navigator and explorer. To Mr. and Mrs. Moore were born eleven children, of whom ten are now living: Nancy, wife of A. J. Moore; Susannah; Mary, wife of R. Taylor; Ross W.; William died in infancy; Robert Bruce; Thomas Dorr; John Duff; Amanda, wife of C. Dressler; Lucinda, wife of H. Lackey, and Emma, wife of J. W. Bear; all reside in this county. Mr. Moore came to this sounty in 1833 with his wife's father, who entered eight quarter-sections of land in Big Lick Township, Mr. Moore getting one-quarter section as his part of it. This land was entered by Mr. Roller, the father-in-law. A large part of this land is now held by his heirs, he having divided his lands among his children. His original farm is on Section 15, Big Lick Township, where A. J. Moore now resides. John Moore purchased the farm on which he now resides in 1866. He has filled the offices of township trustee, clerk, fence viewer, and other places of trust, and is a valuable citizen. He has been successful in life and is now enjoying the fruits of his former years of hard labor, tenderly caring for the declining years of his wife, who has been an invalid for some years. Mr. Moore has not attached himself to any church, but believes in the Universal doctrine. In politics he is a Demoerat and voted for Andrew Jackson.

He married, October 2(), 1861, Sarah E., daughter of Jesse Wiseley, one of the earliest settlers in Big Lick Township, this county, and who erected the first frame dwelling house in the township (this building is still standing and is the oldest house in the township). To Mr. and Mrs. Moore have been born two children: Ralph W. and Lewis C. Mr. Moore acquired his education in Big Lick Township, this county. He is the owner of a fine farm of 160 acres of well improved land, on which he has excellent buildings with modern improvements. He is a thorough farmer and one of the leading citizens of his township. _ He has filled the office of township trustee for several terms, and has been commissioner for seven years, which last named office he is still holding. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; a man greatly respected by his friends. In politics he is a Democrat. Mrs. Moore is a member of the United Brethren Church.

JOHN PETERS, farmer, P. O. Arcadia, was born in Virginia February 5, 1829. His parents, natives of Virginia, came to Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1849, and from there to this county. They were parents of ten children: Ann (deceased wife of J. Laughlin), Catherine (deceased wife of Joseph Dillery), John, Abraham, Mary (wife of Seth Smith), Elizabeth (wife of George Taylor), David, Susan (wife of John Ribley), Midleton and Savina (both deceased). The subject of this sketch married, October 9, 1851, Cynthia McFadden, and to them were born eight children - all living: Ambrose (married to Elizabeth Ewing), Christena J. (wife of John C. Thomas), Amos W. (married to Rosa Kamp), George W. (married to Lucy Kinsel), Ida, Abraham L., Alice and David. Mr. Peters is the owner of a fine farm of 156 acres of well improved land, situate in Section 5, Big Lick Township; in politics he is a Republican.

MICHAEL ROLLER, farmer, P. O. Arcadia, was born March 2, 1822, in Columbiana County, Ohio, son of William and Nancy (Teeters) Roller, natives of Pennsylvania, and who came to Ohio in an early day, former of whom was an associate judge of the courts for some years. In the fall of 1833 William Roller and his son-in-law, John Moore, came to Big Lick Township, this county, and cut the timber and built a cabin on a farm in Section 15, and in 1834 brought out their families, and here William Roller and his wife passed the remainder of their days. They were parents of following named children: Mary (widow of Moses McAnelly), Agnes (wife of John Moore), Wilson (deceased), Susan (wife of John Darrah), Michael, George W., Lucinda (wife of George Hemming) and Charlotte (deceased wife of Hugh Matherson). William Roller entered two tracts of land consisting of eight quarter sections, making a farm for each one of his children. The subject of this sketch received his early education in Richland County, Ohio, where his father resided for twelve years prior to coming to this county. In August, 1846, he married Elizabeth, daughter of James Swindler, and to them were born nine children - eight of whom are yet living: William, Sarah (wife of Allen Spahr), Lucinda (deceased), Mary A., Philena (wife of J. Huffman), George, Ida (wife of Samuel Taylor), Henry and Lorena. Michael Roller is still living on the land originally entered by his father, and which is now well improved. He served as township trustee for several terms, and is a man much respected by his friends. He and family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. :

John and Jane (Slack) Ruckioan. natives uf New Jersey. and who moved to Virginia at an early day. Of their four children, three are now living: Samuel, Martha and James. Our subject acquired his early education in West Virginia, and came to Ohio November 30, 1830, traveling across the mountains to Brownsville, and from there by boat to Pittsburgh, thence down to Columbiana County, Ohio, where he remained for eight years, farming. He was married, May 3, 1832, to Hannah, daughter of John and Catherine (Coy) Huffman, and to them were born eight children: Samuel, John, Catherine (wife of W. Henderson), Mary J. (deceased wife of Thomas Lake), Jacob, Martha (wife of William Roller), Madison (deceased) and William (deceased). Mr. Ruckman came to this county in 1838, and bought land which had been entered by his father-in-law, in the northwest quarter of Section 10, Big Lick Township. To this he added fifty-three acres, and here he has since resided. Coming here when this part of the country was new, Mr. Ruckman and family have been closely identified with its growth and improvement. All of his surviving children are married except Jacob, who still resides with his parents, and has charge of the farm, which is a fine tract of land, with good buildings and other improvements. Our subject has served as justice of the peace and township trustee, and was township treasurer for six years. He has been a successful farmer, and is now enjoying the fruits of years of industry. In politics he is a Democrat. AARON B. SHUCK, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, was born in Amanda Township, this county, December 26, 1846, son of William and Christena (Stahl) Shuck, and grandson of Samuel and Elizabeth (Dipert) Shuck. The father of our subject came to Ohio in 1839, and married about a year and a half after. For a time he resided in Wyandot County, Ohio; afterward purchased eighty acres of land in Amanda Township, this county, which land was a part of the first tract entered in Amanda Township. His children were Benjamin, Philip, William P., Aaron B,, John, Susannah (wife of H. G. Bliss), Sarah E. (wife of John Hyle), Mary and Joseph G. (deceased). William Shuck has resided in Amanda Township, this county, for forty years; has been a successful farmer, and now has a competence to enjoy in his old age. The subject of this sketch was married, in 1871, to Malinda, daughter of Nimrod Bright by his second wife, and granddaughter of the early pioneer, Major Bright. (Mrs. Shuck had one full sister, older, named Mary E., deceased.) To Mr. and Mrs. Shuck have been born six children: Carey L., Laura E., Louie J., Porter L., Preston O. and Sylvia M. (deceased). Mr. Shuck is the owner of a farm of 316 acres of well drained and well cultivated land, with fine improvements upon it, and is one of the promising young farmers of Big Lick Township. He is a member of the United Brethren Church; in politics he is a Democrat. EMANUEL SMITH, farmer, P. 0. Vanlue, was born in Richland County, Ohio, May 5, 1818, son of David and Rachel (Busby) Smith, natives of Germany and Scotland, respectively, and who both died in Richland County, Ohio, the former in 1852, and the latter in 1881. David Smith came to Ohio and entered 1,200 acres of land in Richland County, which land was divided among his heirs. His children were Emanuel, Jonathan, Peggy (wife of H. Gladhill), Henry, Agnes (wife of J. Craft), Malinda (wife of S. Sefelts), Washington, Mary A., Rachel J. and David. Emanuel Smith was married, in 1841, to Jane, daughter of William Smart, and to them were born the following named children: Calvin, David, Oliver,

Sanford and Zeletta. Emanuel Smith purchased what was formerly the William Ritter farm, comprising 217} acres of land, on the Big Lick Township line, and now residesthere. This farm is supposed to have been the first entered in Big Lick Township, this county, and is located near the Big Spring.

DAVID STALL, farmer, P. O. Vanlue, was born April 20, 1858, in Big Lick Township, this county, son of Jackson and Annastacia (Keiser) Stall, natives of Ohio, and who came to this county in 1835 or 1836, and settled in Big Lick Township, where they began pioneer life in the forest. Jackson Stall was twice married; by his first wife, Anna Keiser, he had four children: Emma I., David, Franklin and Sarah M.; of these David is the only survivor. After the death of his first wife Jackson Stall married Annette R. Tongue, and to them were born five children, four of whom are now living: Tabitha A., Mary E., Clara A., Nelson and Gracie (latter deceased). The subject of this sketch was married, January 26, 1879, to Octavia, daughter of Amos and Sarah Ann Treese of Michigan, formerly one of the pioneer residents of this county. By this marriage our subject has one child, Metta Pearl. Mrs. Stall's parents both died in Big Lick Township, this county. David Stall is one of the thorough farmers of Big Lick Township.

HENRY THOMAS, familiarly known among his friends as ''Little Henry," farmer, P. O. West Independence, was born June 23, 1815, in County Down, Ireland. His parents, who were of Scotch and Welsh descent, came to America in 1816. They first settled in Virginia, from there moving to Pennsylvania; thence, in 1826 or 1827, to Wayne County, Ohio, where they remained until 1834 or 1835, when they came to this county and settled on Section 9, Big Lick Township (haying entered land here in 1833) and began pioneer life. Of their eleven children ten are yet living; a picture of the entire family is now in the possession of Henry. Our subject was married, December 4, 1856, to Margaret Bigham, and to them were born five children, three of whom are now living: Mary A., Amos H. and Ida J. The deceased are Elmer J. and Jesse G. Mr. Thomas and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

SAMUEL L. THOMAS, farmer, P. O. Arcadia, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 26, 1824, son of Henry and Jane (Stranahan) Thomas, natives of Ireland. They came to America in 1816, and resided in Pennsylvania for a few years; then, in 1834 or 1835, came to this county and entered 160 acres of land in Section 6, Big Lick Township (where Samuel L., the subject of this sketch, now resides), and there endured the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life in the forest of a new country. Their family consisted of four sons and two daughters: William (in Michigan), John, Mary (wife of C. Weimer, in Iowa), Henry, Sarah (deceased) and Samuel L. Our subject was married, September 21, 1894, to Mary A., daughter of William and Cassandra Taylor, the former a native of Ireland, the latter of Pennsylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. Thomas were born eight children: Martha J. (wife of Jasper L. Gipson), Cassandra, William H., Marcella, Samuel E., George E , Chalmers B. and Mary A. Mr. Thomas was one of the pioneer children of Big Lick Township, and is now one of the substantial farmers of the township. He is connected with the Presbyterian Church; in politics a Republican. \ Sus

HENRY ULSH ERE Ge born November 27, 1822, in Perry County, Penn., son of John and Catherine Ulsh, of Lancaster County, Penn., latter of whom died in Pennsylvania; the former moved to Indiana in 1855, and died there. John Ulsh had a family of eleven children, six of whom are yet living: Eli, John, Benjamin, Elizabeth (wife of S. Bellman), Ellen (wife of D. Lutzenheizer) and Lavina (wife of Dr. Hill). Henry Ulsh came to Ohio in 1857, and settled in Big Lick Township, this county, where he purchased a farm of 160 acres of land, on which he made many fine improvements. He was educated in Pennsylvania, and January 22, 1852, he married Lydia R., daughter of Joel and Catherine Rickenbach, of Walker Township, Juniata Co., Penn., and to them were born seven children: Alice C. (wife of J. Wonder; have one child, Winnie), Welcone, Irvin J. (married to Laura B. Keller; have two children: Myrtle Mary and Hazel B.), Rosa B. (wife of Lewis Hall), Carrie S., Mallie E., Willis B. and Aura May. Henry Ulsh departed this life May 2, 1885. He was a member of the Evangelical Church; in politics a Republican. His widow occupies the fine brick residence built by her late husband, and has charge of the beautiful farm situated in the southern part of Big Lick Township.

N. H. WARD, farmer, P. O. Alvada, Seneca County, was born June 8, 1812, in Washington County, Penn., to James and Elizabeth (Eaton) Ward, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively; the family, then consisting of the parents and three sons, David, Jonathan and N. H., came to Ohio in 1815, settling in Columbiana County, where they entered and improvedland. Here,to James and Elizabeth Ward, were born six more children: Joshua, Seth, Mahala, Edmond, Artemus and Sarah. Our subject received a meager education, attending a country school only, and about three weeks in all, but by close application to books and periodicals in later days he has become a ready thinker, and can master a difficult problem with but little exertion. He learned the trade of a tailor, and in 1834 came to Findlay, where for five years he carried on a tailor's shop. It is a fact worthy of mention that during his business career at Findlay he made Dr. William H. Baldwin's wedding suit. When N. H. Ward was thirteen years of age he was afflicted with rheumatic white swelling in his right arm, which resulted in having a portion of the bone removed, and, in 1844, the callous which formed was entirely taken out, to eradicate a second swelling. Mr. Ward spent about five years tailoring in Palestine, Ohio, and in 1844 came to his present farm, and for ten years united his trade with farming. He came by team to Findlay, traveling, seven of the eight days' time consumed in the journey, through the rain. When entering business he had $97; now he is the owner of a beautiful farm. Mr. Ward married, November 6, 1834, Casander Bayless, who was born in 1807, and died August 3, 1836. In 1837 our subject was again married, this time to Casander Leonard, who was born in 1811, and a short time before her death she bore him a son, Leonard C., born May 29, 1838, died May 17, 1862. The following resolutions were adopted by the Mt. Union College, of which Leonard C. was a student:

WHEREAS, It has pleased our Heavenly Father to remove, on the 17th inst. (May, 1862), Leonard C. Ward, of West Independence, Hancock Co., Ohio therefore,

Resolved, That we recognize with humble sorrow and submission this afflicting dispensation of Providence because it is the work of Him ''who doeth all things well," and that we feel more deeply and solemnly impressed with the brevity and uncertainty of life, the certainty of death, and the imperative necessity of a constant reparation to meet the '"'King of Terrors,' and the Great Judge of the quick and deed

_ Resolved, That a copy of the above resolutions be submitted for publication in the Pittsburgh Christian Advocate, Cleveland Leader, the Buckeye State, of New Lisbon, and the Hancock Jeffersonian ; also one forwarded to his parents, and one preserved in the archives of this institution.

In 1839 Mr. N. H. Ward married his present wife, Eliza McCaully, born July 24, 1814, and to them were born three children, two of whom survived: A. J. (born January 12, 1844, served in Company G, One Hundred and Seventy-Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; he married, in 1870, Coraline Hoyt, and they have two children: Bertha M.and Waldo R) and H. Kate (born February 17, 1849, married to R. Cole). Our subject identified himself with the Whig and Republican parties. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1835. His wife has been a member of that denomination since girlhood.

JESSE WISELEY, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born ;January 31, 1808, in Fairfield County, Ohio, son of Edward and Leah (Tomlinson) Wiseley, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio in 1818 and settled in Bloom Township, Fairfield County, where they passed the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of fifteen children, six of whom are yet living: Jesse, Amos, Phebe (wife of John Goodland), Leah (wife of S. Smith), Naomi and Harriet (twins - the former the wife of John Rowe, and the latter the wife of Isaac Grant). Jesse Wiseley acquired his early education in Fairfield County, Ohio, and came to this county in 1836, bringing with him his wife, Keziah (Gilmore) Wiseley, and their then only child, John. Mr. Wiseley entered land in Section 7, Big Lick Township, where he now resides. He cut the first timber on the place and erected a cabin, and a few years later built a pioneer frame house, the first frame dwelling put up in the township. He has since built another residence, but has allowed the old house to remain standing. Itis the oldest house in the township, and a constant reminder of the pioneer days, its quaint, oldfashioned chimney of stone, built on the outside of the house, attracting many a curious glance from the passers-by. The names of the children born to Jesse Wiseley and wife are John (deceased), William, Henry, Sarah (wife of Ross Moore), Nathan (deceased) and Mary (wife of Henry Gillispie). Mr. Wiseley is one of the leading and successful farmers of Big Lick Township, and is a fine old gentleman, greatly respected by all who know him. Heand his wife now reside with their son William.

F. E. ALWARD, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in Iowa, December 16, 1855, son of Alfred L. and Harriet (Cayton) Alward, natives of Ohio. Alfred L. Alward, a farmer by occupation, enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio National Guards, was taken prisoner, and died in the Andersonville Prison. The subject of this sketch was reared in Licking County, Ohio, and attended the common schools, also the Pataskala graded school. He afterward learned boot and shoe-making, and was foreman of the boot and shoe manufactory at the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home in Xenia, Ohio, for four years. In 1876 Mr. Alward went West and engaged in stock-farming. He has been engaged in farming in Blanchard Township, this county, since 1881, and owns 240 acres of the finest land on the Blanchard River bottom. In 1881 he was united in marriage with Frances, daughter of Lewis Dukes, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Alward are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the K. of P.

JOHN BOWER, retired farmer, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Bedford County, Penn., April 30, 1803, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Foust) Bower, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. They were each twice married. The family to which our subject belonged consisted of seven children. Daniel Bower, who was a butcher, came to Springfield, Jefferson Co., Ohio, in 1806. The subject of this sketch, who never attended school, cleared land, made rails and worked by the day. In 1837 he came to this county, settled in Liberty Township, took up land, and resided there until 1841, when he came to Blanchard Township, bought eighty acres of land from Alfred Hampton, and has since resided here. Mr. Bower was united in marriage, in 1826, with Elizabeth Bysel, daughter of Philip Bysel, and of Pennsylvania-Dutch extraction. Their union has been blessed with ten children: Henry, married, farming in Kansas; Jonathan, a carpenter, married, residing in Shawtown, this county; A. J., a merchant in Kansas, married; Philip B., a carpenter, married, residing in Illinois; Lydia, wife of John Haddox, of this county; Elizabeth, wife of Frank Brooks, of Ottawa (he is working on railroad bridges); Daniel, married, farming on 120 acres of land in Blanchard Township, this county; Wesley, a carpenter and farmer, married, residing in Kansas; John (deceased), was in Company K, Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Chicamacomico; and Sarah Ann, wife of Moses Firmin. Mrs. Bower departed this life in 1879. Our subject is a member of the German Baptist Church, in which he has been deacon for thirty years. In politics he is a Democrat.

DANIEL BOWER, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Liberty Township, this county, February 2, 1837, son of John and Elizabeth (Bysel) Bower, former of whom was a pioneer of this county. Of their family of ten children the subject of this sketch is the seventh. Daniel Bower was reared on the farm, received a common English education in this county, and has followed agriculture all his life. He is the owner of 120 acres of well-improved land in Blanchard Township, this county, on which he resides. In 1859 Mr. Bower was united in marriage with Catherine, daughter of John and Mary (Tipton) Jennar, natives of Ohio, and of English descent; former a farmer by occupation. Mrs. Bower was born in 1835, in Harrison County, Ohio, and her father moved to Van Wert County, Ohio, in 1845, where she remained until she was married. Mr. and Mrs. Bower have four children: John W., Manuel C., Ida A. and Rosco T. Our subject and wife and their three eldest children are members of the German Baptist Church, of which he is a deacon, and of the Sdbbathschool, of which he is assistant superintendent. In politics Mr. Bower is a Republican. For several years he was school director.

H. F. BROWN, farmer and stock raiser, lumberman and manufacturer, P. O. McComb, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, April 19, 1830, son of Thomas H. and Susannah (Sours) Brown, natives of Ireland and Pennsy!- vania, respectively. Thomas H. Brown, who was a farmer, came from New York and settled on a farm in Ashland County, Ohio. His family consisted of twelve children, ten of whom grew to maturity, our subject being the ninth. H. IF. Brown was reared on the farm, educated in the district school in Ashland County, Ohio, and chose agricultural pursuits as his occupation. In 1804 he came to this county and settled in the northeast corner of Blanchard Township, where he bought 160 acres of land. He now owns 225 acres where he resides, and at one time owned 400 acres. He started a saw-mill in Portage Township, this county, in 1864 or 1865, and still operates the mill in McComb. He manufactures and repairs wagons and carriages, and owns the shop in McComb. He also contracts to build pikes, and in 1884 he constructed 200 rods. Our subject was united in marriage, in 1800, with Mary A., daughter of William Mwing; her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent. The children born to this union are William, Alice J., Elizabeth Melvina and Thomas Jefferson. Mrs. Brown died in 1862, and in 1864 Mr. Brown was again married, this time to Mary W. Ray, daughter of Gyant and Sarah (Morrison) Ray, who were of Dutch and Scotch-English descent. By this union six children were born, four of whom are now living: Nettie Gertrude, Frankie, Florence and Henry B. Mrs. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Brown of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has filled the office of trustee for three terms. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has taken all the degrees in the subordinate lodge. JOSEPH M. CARTWRIGHT, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, March 6, 1832; son of Stephen and Mahala (Thrapp) Cartwright, latter a native of Virginia, of English descent. His father, a farmer, was born in Delaware, of English extraction, and settled on a farm in Putnam County, Ohio, in 1836. He reared a family of ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity. Joseph M., the subject of this sketch, the third in the family, was reared on the farm, acquired a common school education in Putnam County, Ohio, and has made farming the business of his life. In 1557 Mr. Cartwright was united in marriage with Catherine Nowlan, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Sinnott) Nowlan, natives of Nova Scotia and of Irish and English descent, former of whom came to Ohio in an early day and settled in Wayne

F. E. ALWARD, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in Iowa, December 16, 1855, son of Alfred L. and Harriet (Cayton) Alward, natives of Ohio. Alfred L. Alward, a farmer by occupation, enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio National Guards, was taken prisoner, and died in the Andersonville Prison. The subject of this sketch was reared in Licking County, Ohio, and attended the common schools, also the Pataskala graded school. He afterward learned boot and shoe-making, and was foreman of the boot and shoe manufactory at the Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphans' Home in Xenia, Ohio, for four years. In 1876 Mr. Alward went West and engaged in stock-farming. He has been engaged in farming in Blanchard Township, this county, since 1881, and owns 240 acres of the finest land on the Blanchard River bottom. In 1881 he was united in marriage with Frances, daughter of Lewis Dukes, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Alward are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the K. of P.

JOHN BOWER, retired farmer, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Bedford County, Penn., April 30, 1803, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Foust) Bower, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. They were each twice married. The family to which our subject belonged consisted of seven children. Daniel Bower, who was a butcher, came to Springfield, Jefferson Co., Ohio, in 1806. The subject of this sketch, who never attended school, cleared land, made rails and worked by the day. In 1837 he came to this county, settled in Liberty Township, took up land, and resided there until 1841, when he came to Blanchard Township, bought eighty acres of land from Alfred Hampton, and has since resided here. Mr. Bower was united in marriage, in 1826, with Elizabeth Bysel, daughter of Philip Bysel, and of Pennsylvania-Dutch extraction. Their union has been blessed with ten children: Henry, married, farming in Kansas; Jonathan, a carpenter, married, residing in Shawtown, this county; A. J., a merchant in Kansas, married; Philip B., a carpenter, married, residing in Illinois; Lydia, wife of John Haddox, of this county; Elizabeth, wife of Frank Brooks, of Ottawa (he is working on railroad bridges); Daniel, married, farming on 120 acres of land in Blanchard Township, this county; Wesley, a carpenter and farmer, married, residing in Kansas; John (deceased), was in Company K, Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Chicamacomico; and Sarah Ann, wife of Moses Firmin. Mrs. Bower departed this life in 1879. Our subject is a member of the German Baptist Church, in which he has been deacon for thirty years. In politics he is a Democrat.

DANIEL BOWER, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Liberty Township, this county, February 2, 1837, son of John and Elizabeth (Bysel) Bower, former of whom was a pioneer of this county. Of their family of ten children the subject of this sketch is the seventh. Daniel Bower was reared on the farm, received a common English education in this county, and has followed agriculture all his life. He is the owner of 120 acres of well-improved land in Blanchard Township, this county, on which he resides. In 1859 Mr. Bower was united in marriage with Catherine, daughter of John and Mary (Tipton) Jennar, natives of Ohio, and of English descent; former a farmer by occupation. Mrs. Bower was born in 1838, in Harrison County, Ohio, and her father moved to Van Wert County, Ohio, in 1845, where she remained until she was married. Mr. and Mrs. Bower have four children: John W., Manuel C., Ida A. and Roseo T. Our subject and wife and their three eldest children are members of the German Baptist Church, of which he is a deacon, and of the Sabbathschool, of which he is assistant superintendent. In politics Mr. Bower is a Republican. For several years he was school director.

H. F. BROWN, farmer and stock raiser, lumberman and manufacturer, P. O. McComb, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, April 19, 1830, son of Thomas H. and Susannah (Sours) Brown, natives of Ireland and Pennsy!- vania, respectively. Thomas H. Brown, who was a farmer, came from New York and settled on a farm in Ashland County, Ohio. His family consisted of twelve children, ten of whom grew to maturity, our subject being the ninth. H. F. Brown was reared on the farm, educated in the district school in Ashland County, Ohio, and chose agricultural pursuits as his occupation. In 1lSo4 he came to this county and settled in the northeast corner of Blanchard Township, where he bought 160 acres of land. He now owns 220 acres where he resides, and at one time owned 400 acres. He started a saw-mill in Portage Township, this county, in 1864 or 1865, and still operates the mill in McComb. He manufactures and repairs wagons and carriages, and owns the shop in McComb. He also contracts to build pikes, and in 1884 he constructed 200 rods. Our subject was united in marriage, in 1800, with Mary A., daughter of William liwing; her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent. The children born to this union are William, Alice J., Elizabeth Melvina and Thomas Jefferson. Mrs. Brown died in 1862, and in 1864 Myr. Brown was again married, this time to Mary W. Ray, daughter of Gyant and Sarah (Morrison) Ray, who were of Dutch and Scotch-English descent. By fhis union six children were born, four of whom are now living: Nettie Gertrude, Frankie, Florence and Henry B. Mrs. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Brown of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has filled the office of trustee for three terms. He isa member of the I. O. O. F., and has taken all the degrees in the subordinate lodge. TS en M. CARTWRIGHT, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, March 6, 1832, son. of Stephen and Mahala (Thrapp) Cartwright, latter a native of Virginia, of English descent. His father, a farmer, was born in Delaware, of English extraction, and settled on a farm in Putnam County, Ohio, in 1836. He reared a family of ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity. Joseph M., the subject of this sketch, the third in the family, was reared on the farm, acquired a common school education in Putnam County, Ohio, and has made farming the business of his life. In 1857 Mr. Cartwright was united in marriage with Catherine Nowlan, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Sinnott) Nowlan, natives of Nova Scotia and of Irish and English

County. Mr. and Mrs. Cartwriyht's children are Emza J., Telethia S., Stephen T. and Amanda E. Our subject and wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, of which he has been class leader. He joined the church when he was nineteen years of age, and was licensed to preach in 1875, since when he has preached, but has never accepted a local charge. Mr. Cartwright has resided in this county since 1858, and on the farm where he now lives since 1865. He votes the Republican ticket; has been school director and township trustee; is a member of the I. O. O. F. at Gilboa.

SAMUEL DENNIS, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Oak Ridge, was born in Washington County, Penn., August 15, 1819, son of John and Susannah (Gumbard) Dennis, the former a native of Maryland, the latter of Westmoreland County, Penn., both of German descent. John Dennis, who was a farmer in later life, met with misfortune through filling a pike contract, by which he sustained a great loss. He served in the war of 1812. He went to Knox County, Ohio, in 1824. Of his family of eleven children, Samuel is the tenth child. The subject of this sketch was reared on the farm and received his education in the common schools; when he was about fourteen years of age his father died and Samuel then went on the canal where he continued for eight years. In 1844 our subject was united in marriage with Matilda Alspach, of German descent, and to them were born George, Alonzo, John, William, Marietta, Lucinda, Elizabeth, Charles and Samuel T. Mrs. Dennis, formerly a member of the German Reformed Church, is now a member of the Church of God. Mr. Dennis came to this county in 1856 and settled in Eagle Township. He afterward removed to near Benton Ridge, Ohio, on a tract of 240 acres of land where he now resides. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a Democrat; is now holding the office of school director.

WILLIAM DOWNING (deceased), son of George Downing, was born in Maryland, in 1797, of English parentage. He was reared on a farm in Pike County, Ohio, received a good English education and, from his youth, was engaged in agricultural pursuits. He served in the war of 1812. He came to this county in 1830 and helped organize Blanchard Township. William Downing was appointed the first postmaster in Blanchard Township, this county, and served in that capacity for many years; the office was established in 1848 and was kept in his house. Mr. Downing was twice married, the first time to Elizabeth Henderson. His second marriage was in 1858 with Margaret Thompson, daughter of Isaac and Anna Underwood, the former a native of Virginia, of Irish descent, and the latter of Pennsylvania, of English descent. As a farmer Mr. Downing was successful, owning 180 acres of valuable land at the time of his death, which occurred in 1863. He was a member of the M. E. Church; in politics a Democrat. His widow is the owner of 206 acres of land on which she resides, and she has managed the farm since her husband's death.

DAVID DOWNING, rétired farmer, at present a resident of Findlay, Ohio, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., February 12, 1815, son of John and Mary (Boyler) Downing, the latter of German descent. His father, a native of Kentucky, of English descent, came to this county in 1832, and settled on a farm in Blanchard Township; he died in Kansas. Our subject, David Downing, the eldest in a family of eight children, was reared on a farm, acquired a common school education in the Pike County, Ohio, sub- scription school, and from his youth has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. He is the owner of 30) acres of well improved land, and at one time owned 700 acres of land. He was united in marriage, in 1887, with Marietta Dorsey, a lady of English and Scotch descent, and this union has been blessed with five children: George T., Jane (wife of Oliver P. Shaw), Lavina, John, a farmer in Kansas, and Dora (wife of Miles Dukes). Mrs. Downing is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Downing has been township trustee and school director.

GEORGE T. DOWNING, farmer, P. O. Oak Ridge, born December 28, 1839, is the eldest son of David and Marietta (Dorsey) Downing. He was reared on a farm, received a fair English education, and has made agriculture the business of his life. He is the owner of 272 acres of well improved land in Blanchard Township. In 1865 Mr. Downing was united in marriage with Mary E. Slusser, a lady of German descent, and three children have blessed this union: Florence, Chester and Sumner. In politics Mr. Downing is a Republican. He has been township treasurer for four years, also trustee of Blanchard Township, this county. He united with the Masonic fraternity at Findlay in 1864,

LEWIS DUKES, Sxz., retired farmer, P. O. Oak Ridge, one of the early pioneers of Blanchard Township, this county, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, April 6, 1811; son of John and Mary (Haddox) Dukes, natives of Virginia, and who had twelve children. Lewis Dukes, Sr., who was very young when his father died, was reared on a farm and acquired his education in the common schools. At seventeen years of age he started out in life for himself as a day laborer, coming to this county about 1827, and commenced clearing the forest for the small pittance of 25 cents per day, in which work he continued for about seven years. He then purchased 700 acres of wild land with money which he had saved out of his earnings, and has been very successful in all his undertakings through life. He continued to add to his possessions until, at one time, he had 1,200 acres of fine land. He has disposed of a part, and at the present time owns 800 acres of well improved land, on which he and his family reside. Mr. Dukes was united in marriage in 1838, with Laura W. Bean, a Christian lady of rare accomplishments and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, who departed this life in 1874. After her death, in 1876, Mr. Dukes married Mrs. Harriet Alward, daughter of James and Mary A. (Bean) Caton, and widow of Alfred L. Alward. Mr. Dukes is one of the old living land-marks left to tell the tale of the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life in Blanchard Township; and one of the pleasures of his declining years is the knowledge of having lived an upright and honorable life. His wife has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for forty-one years.

LEWIS DUKES, Jr., farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Oak Ridge, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, November 30, 1827; son of Richard and Mary (Blue) Dukes, the latter a native of Ohio, of German descent. The father of our subject was a native of Virginia, of English descent, came to this county in 1828 and settled on a farm of ninety-six acres of wild woodland in Blanchard Township. He was accompanied by his brother, John Dukes, who also took up 147 acres of wild land. Richard Dukes was a successful farmer and took an active interest in all that pertained to the improvement of the county. The first meeting-house in the county was erected on his farm, of hewed logs with a clap-board roof, and is still standing. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was a Republican. He died in 1876. His family consisted of fourteen children, nine of whom grew to maturity, the subject'of this sketch being the eldest. Lewis Dukes, Jr., was reared on the farm, received a common school education, and has followed agricultural pursuits with marked success. The farm on which he resides is one of the finest in the State. He now owns 1,400 acres of land, after having divided among his children (some of whom are married) 560 acres. Our subject was united in marriage, April 9, 1848, with Miss Laura Ann Spangler, daughter of Joseph Spangler, and of English descent. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Dukes are Parlee C., a prominent farmer residing in Blanchard Township, this county; Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Jackson, a prominent farmer in this county; Frances, wife of F. E. Alward, also a prominent farmer in this county; Miles W., married, a farmer in Blanchard Township, this county; Clark, married, operating a saw-mill, and R. B., at home with his father. Our subject and wife are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been steward and trustee. In politics Mr. Dukes is a Republican. He has been trustee and clerk and was also treasurer and school director, and was actively interested in the Grange movement.

PARLEE C. DUKES, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in this county August 24, 1851, in the first brick house built in Blanchard Township. His father, Lewis Dukes, Jr., reared a family of seven children, our subject being the second. Parlee C, Dukes was reared on a farm; received a good English education, and chose farming for his occupation in life. He is the owner of 312 acres of valuable land in Blanchard Township, this county, on which he resides. He was united in marriage, in 1876, with Harriet E., daughter of Jacob Grose, and three children have blessed this union: Albee LeClare, Edith Lela and Grace D. Mr. and Mrs. Dukes are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Sabbath-school of which he is trustee and assistant superintendent. In politics he isa Republican. He holds the office of school director.

ELI DUKES, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Oak Ridge, was born in Blanchard Township, this county, May 16, 1841, son of Richard and Mary (Blue) Dukes, the latter born in Ohio, of German descent. The father £ our subject was a native of Virginia, of English descent; came to this sounty in 1828, and settled on a farm in Blanchard Township, where he passed the remainder of his life, dying in 1876, at Findlay, Ohio. Of his family of fourteen children, nine grew to maturity, our subject being the tenth. Eli Dukes acquired his education in the common schools, and in Oberlin and Delaware Colleges. He was clerk in a dry goods store for one year, and taught school four winters, but his principal business in life has been farming and dealing in stock. He is the owner of 486 acres of valuable land. At the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, Mr. Dukes promptly enlisted in Company A, Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three years as a soldier in the ranks. He was in the battle of Chickamauga, and also at Stone River. When his regiment was captured, he, with twenty-five others, escaped. Mr. Dukes was united in marriage, in 1865, with Mary H. Delaney, daughter of Mark Delaney, a pioneer minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church. She is of Irish, French and English descent. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Dukes: Delevan D. , Nannie B., Gustavus, Clemma I. and Laura G. Our subject and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has been class-leader for a number of years. Eli Dukes' father was one of the prime movers in founding the first church erected in this county. This building, a relic of the olden time, is still standing on the farm belonging to our subject.

JACOB GROSE, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Findlay, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., April 25, 1825, son of Jacob and Margaret (Sheddinger) Grose, natives of Bucks County, Penn., and of German de, scent. Our subject's great-grandfather, in company with two brothers, came to America before the war of the Revolution, and settled in Bucks County, Penn. In religion they were Mennonites. The father of our subject died in Wayne County, Ohio; his family consisted of eleven children. Jacob Grose, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm; served an apprenticeship of three years and a half at the cabinet-maker's trade, which he followed for twelve years. He was united in marriage, in 1848, with Mary Sherick, a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. Her parents, Peter and Barbara (Funk) Sherick, now reside in Findlay, this county. Our subject and wife are parents of six children: David S., a school teacher and farmer; Peter J., Harriet E., Jacob I., Laura J. and William E. Mr. and Mrs. Grose are members of the Baptist Church of God. He has been trustee and school director for nine years, and clerk of the board. Heis the owner of 326 acres of land, and takes great interest in the Grange movement, of which organization he is a charter member, and has filled the office of overseer in the order.

E. L. GROVES, meat market, Macomb, was born in Blanchard Township, this county, February 6, 1861, son of Savadra and Lucinda (Fisher), Groves, natives of Ohio, of German and English descent. Savadra came to this county in 1828, with his father, Thomas Groves, and departed this life in 1877, aged fifty-three years. His widow still survives. Of their two children, E. L. alone is living. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, received a fair English education, and successfully followed the occupation of farming. He is the owner of 100 acres of land, on which he resides. He was married, December 30, 1885, to Alice McKinnis.

L. C. GROVES, farmer and stock raiser, and postmaster of Oak Ridge, was born in Blanchard Township, this county, April 245 1833, son of Thomas and Adaline (Choate) Groves, the former a native of Virginia, of German descent, and the latter a native of Vermont, of English descent. Thomas Groves, who was an early settler in this county, died in 1880. His family consisted of thirteen children, ten of whom grew to maturity, d Weel OF being the fourth. Our subject was reared on a farm, attended the common school and chose agriculture for his occupation in life. In 1856 he was united in marriage with Geninia, daughter of David Braucht, who entered 600 acres of land in this county in an early day and passed the remainder of his life here. Mr. and Mrs. Groves have two children: Izoia and Estella, wife 3 John Collingwood, a farmer in this county. Mr. Groves is the owner of 201 acres of cultivated land. He has filled the office of trustee for five ate and school director for eleven years, and is at present postmaster of er Ridge. He became a member of the ae tae at Findlay, an i ee of Master Mason in that order. oer ee iW DDOR. farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam aes anklin Cc - Ohio, January 28 1830, eldest child County, was born in Franklin County. i Lapel hone of Mordecai and Margaret (Lanters) Haddox, the latter a native o or - many. They were parents of five children. Mordecai Haddox, the father of our subject, born in Virginia of German parentage, and who was engaged in farming all his life, came to this county in 1830 and entered 160 acres of land (where Samuel Haddox now resides) in Blanchard Township. He died in 1879. John Haddox, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm, attended the common schools and has been engaged in farming all his life. He has been successful and is the owner of a fine farm of 220 acres of land under a high state of cultivation. In 1854 he was united in marriage with Lydia, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Bysel) Bower; Mr. Bower was born in 1803, and has resided on a farm in Blanchard Township, this county, for many years. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Haddox are Elizabeth Alice, wife of S. A. Van Sickle; Lucinda Jane, wife of L. M. Orsborn; George P., at home; Harry P. and William Francis. The family are all members of the United Brethren Church, of which Mr. Haddox has been trustee and classleader for several years. In politics he is a Republican. He takes a great interest in the schools of his district and is at present serving his fourth term as school director

SAMUEL KEEL, retired farmer, P. O. Benton Ridge, Ohio, is one of the representative pioneers of this county, born in Perry County, Penn., March 1, 1813, son of Henry and Catharine (Bosler) Keel, natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married and first settled. About 1820 they moved to Fairfield County, Ohio, locating there until 1827, at which time they came to Jackson Township, this county, where they remained six years, then moved to Eagle Township, this county, and here remained until their death. Henry Keel departed this life in 1853, his widow following him in 1857. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom only four survive, Samuel being the fifth. Our subject came with his parents to this county, and was united in marriage May 10, 1838, with Mary Povenmire, who was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., October 24, 1810, daughter of John and Sarah (Wagoner) Povenmire, natives of Pennsylvania, where they married and first settled, and remained until 1812, in which year they immigrated to Fairfield County, Ohio, thence moved to Pickaway County, where they located until 1837, after which time they moved to Liberty Township, this county, and here remained until their death. Mr. Povenmire departed this life first, and his widow died some years afterward. They were the parents of thirteen children, only five of whom survive, Mrs. Keel being the eldest in the family. Mr. and Mrs. Keel are the parents of seven children: Sarah, wife of Phenius Brown; Susanna and Christena, at home; Philip, married to Nancy Seitz; John, married to Martha Stover; Abraham, married to Margaret Eck, and Marvel, married to Mary Rudisill. All reside in this county cxeept Philip, who is in Putnam County, Ohio. | Mr. Keel, before he was married, entered eighty acres of land in this county. This land he afterward sold and bought another eighty-acre tract, to which he has since added until he now owns 160 acres of land. He also owns town property in this county, and 100 acres of land in Putnam County, Ohio, besides having helped his children very liberally. Mr. Keel took part in the muster of early days. He has filled various offices in Jackson, Union and Blanchard Townships. During his early life he was a Demoerat, but when Pierce became a candidate for the Presidency he changed his politics. He has followed farming all his life. His wife has been a church member for forty years. They reside in Benton Ridge, and are among the leading families of this county.

P. A. KEMERER, farmer and teacher, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in Blanchard Township, this county, December 23, 1853, son of David (son of John, son of Phillip Kemerer) and Susanna (Deal) Kemerer, the former a native of Ohio, of German descent, and the latter of Virginia, cf English descent. David Kemerer was a farmer during his life, and prominent among the early settlers of this county, moving to the farm on which he now resides in 1842. P. A. Kemerer, the subject of this sketch, the youngest in a family of six children, attended the common school and Ada Normal School, was reared on the farm and taught school five terms. In November, 1877, he was united in marriage with Hattie EH. Keller, daughter of Joseph Keller. Her parents were of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Kemerer have had three children, two of whom survive, Alba Candace and Clarence. Mr. Kemerer is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. He takes a great interest in the Sabbath-school and church. He is the owner of sixty-five acres of land in Wood County, Ohio, and has made most of his fortune by his own exertions. At present he is residing on and managing the farm belonging to his father (who is still living) in Blanchard Township.

JACOB G. KNEPPER, farmer, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, Ohio, was born in Blanchard Township, this county, June 14, 1839; son of John and Elizabeth (Foglesong) Knepper. the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of the State of Maryland, who came to this county in 1834, and settled in- Blanchard Township, where the former took up a half section of land. John Knepper died June 1, 1840, and his widow died March 10, 1883, at the age of eighty-one years. Of their family there were eight children, Jacob G. being the youngest. He was reared on the farm; attended the common school until March, 1856, when he with his parents moved to Westerville, Franklin Co., Ohio, where he attended Otterbein University until March, 1857, when he with his parents returned to Hancock County again. From 1858 to the spring of 1862 he worked at the carpenter trade. In the spring of 1862 he followed farming. On August 12, 1862, he enlisted under Capt. J. A. Bope, in Company D, Ninety-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for the term of three years; he was captured by the enemy at the battle of Stone River January 2, 1863, but as the enemy were repulsed and driven back, he made his escape from them, being in their hands about two hours. He participated in many of the battles, from Murfreesborough to Atlanta, and then returned to Nashville and engaged in the battle at Nashville in November, 1864, which was the cleaning out of Hood's army. In January, 1865, his regiment was sent to North Carolina by way of Louisvillle, Ky., Cincinnati, Columbus, Ohio, to Washington City. He marched from Wilmington, N. C., to Goldsborough, Raleigh, and Salisbury. While lying at the latter place war was declared at an end. He was carried from there through Danville, Petersburg, to City Point, by railroad; from City Point to Baltimore, Md., by boat; from there to Gallipolis, Ohio, by railroad, and was mustered out of service July 17, 1865. He was but six days absent from his regiment during the length of time he was in the service. He never received a scratch or bullet mark from the enemy, but is considerably broken down by hard marching and exposure. . When he returned home he engaged in operating his mother's farm until 1873, when he moved on his own farm of 165 acres of valuable and well-cultivated land, a part of the original entry made by his father August 10, 1837, the pat- ent for which is still in the possession of our subject, signed by Martin Van Buren. In March, 1866, Mr. Knepper was united in marriage with Mary E. Foltz, daughter of Noah and Mary (Hisie) Foltz, natives of Virginia and of German descent. but present residence in Eagle Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Knepper have six children: Noah Wilson, Jennie V., Adam Monroe, Eve V., Charles Albert, and Nellie B. Our subject and wife were members of C. U. Church. Mr. Knepper holds the office of school director. He was initiated into the I. O. O. F. in January, 1874; has passed the chairs, and has been permanent secretary for the past three years of Gilboa Lodge. No. 459, I. O. O. F. He also joined the G. A. R., Linsey Post, No. 75, in 1882. He served two terms as Officer of the Day in said post. In politics he is a Democrat.

NATHANIEL KNEPPER, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 24, 1828, son of John (a farmer and miller) and Elizabeth Knepper, natives of Ohio, of German descent. They reared a family of ten children, Nathaniel being the eldest of those now living. Our subject was reared on the farm, and has made agriculture the principal business of his life. In 1849 he was united with marriage to Hannah, daughter of Lawrence Hartze, born in Germany. The union of our subject and wife has been blessed with ten children (two died in infancy): Peter (died at the age of twenty-two years), George, farmer, married, Mary Ann, Amanda, Cornelia, Jacob (farmer, married), Emma and Lucinda. Mr. and Mrs. Knepper were formerly members of the United Brethren Church, of which he was a classleader, but they have since united themselves with the Christian Union Church, of which he is an elder, class-leader and trustee. Mr. Knepper is the owner of a well improved farm of 300 acres of land, and has made most of his fortune in Blanchard Township, this county, since 1839. He takes a deep interest in the Grange organization of Blanchard Township, and is now overseer of that order.

N. B. McCLISH, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa, Putnam County, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, August 16, 1821, son of James and Patience (Bishop) McClish, the latter born in New Jersey, of Irish descent. His father, a native of Maryland, a school teacher by occupation, and a soldier in the war of 1812, eame to this county October 3, 1836, and settled within a few rods of where the McClish bridge now stands, and died three days after his arrival. His family consisted of eleven children, ten of whom grew to maturity, seven coming to this county. Only three of the family are now living: N. B., a sister residing in Tlinois, and a brother who has resided in California since 1848, a large man, weighing 400 pounds. Our subject has made agriculture his occupation, and now resides on the farm where his father settled, in 1836, and to which our subject has since added until he now owns 41() acres, the farm being one of the most valuable in this county. Mr. McClish has been twice married; first, in 1848, to a daughter of Henry Moffit; she died in 1855, leaving three children: Ivy, Herman and Mary. In 1856 our subject was again married; this time to a daughter of Owen Street, a pioneer farmer of Union Township, this county. The children of this union are Patience, Annie (wife of Samuel Cartwright), Harriet E. (wife of Samuel Burthart), Dean, P. B., Anna G. and May. The mother of these children died in 1884, and since her death our subject's

THOMAS McKINNIS, farmer and stuck raiser, P. O. Oak Ridge, was born on the farm adjoining where he now resides, in Liberty Township, this county, October 26, 1826, son of Charles and Mary (Vail) McKinnis, latter of whom was a native of Virginia, of Scotch-Irish descent. Charles McKinnis, a native of Pennsylvania, also of Scotch-Irish descent, a farmer by occupation, came to this county in 1822, settled in Liberty Township, and in 1827 took ap land where our subject now resides, in Blanchard Township. His family numbered six children, allof whom grew to maturity, Thomas being the second. Our subject was reared on the farm, received a fair English education, and has made farming his principal business. He is the owner of 180 acres of well improved land. In 1850 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth McClintock, a lady of Scotch-Irish descent, whose father was an early settler of Harrison County. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. McKinnis: Violet (wife of Jacob Grubb, a farmer of this county), Cloys B. (at home), Alice (wife of E. L. Groves) and Laura (deceased). Mrs. McKinnis is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics, Mr. McKinnis is a Democrat.

J. R. McLEOD, M. D., Benton Ridge, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, July 27, 1833, son of John and Elizabeth (Cole) McLeod, the former a native of Philadelphia, of Scotch and English extraction, and the latter a native of Ohio; they reared a family of eleven children, J. R. being the eldest. Our subject came to this county in 1834 with his father, and they settled in Amanda Township, where the Doctor's maternal grandfather, Mr. Cole, entered land. Our subject was reared on the farm, acquired his education in this county and at Delaware College in this State; he then began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Williamson and commenced the practice of medicine in Clinton, [l., in 1857; in 1861 he turned his attention to the study of law and in 1863 graduated in the law school of the Cincinnati College, and was admitted to the bar. He practiced law until 1876, when his health failed and his physicians gave him up, telling him that his disease would prove fatai in less than twelve months. Our subject now resumed the study of medicine, making his own case a specialty; he regained his health and graduated in medicine in Keokuk, Iowa, in 1877. In 1880 the Doctor came to Benton Ridge, and has been engaged in the practice of medicine since. He was united in marriage, in 1862, with Mary E. Howard, daughter of Capt. Samuel Howard, who was several times treasurer of this county, served in the war of the Rebellion and held a commission as captain of volunteers; he is a resident of Findlay, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Dr. McLeod are parents of the following named children: Charles D., Samuel H. and Bessie Belle. Mrs. McLeod and daughter are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the I. O. O. F. and of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association, also of the Hancock Medical Association. The Doctor resided in Shelby County, Mo., for several years after the war, and in 1870 was elected president of the county court of that county, serving for six years. During the war of the Rebellion he was a non-commissioned officer in the One Hundred and Sixty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry.

Moffitt, natives of Ross County, 'Ohio, of Irish descent. William Moffitt was among the early pioneers of this county and succeeded in accumulating a handsome fortune; he died in 1884. His family consisted of eleven children, four of whom survive, our subject being the youngest son. R. I. Moffitt received his education in the common schools, has followed farming all his life and resides on the home farm consisting of 840 acres of land. He owns a half interest in this farm and another farm of eighty acres. Mr. Moffitt was united in marriage, in 1867,with the daughter of William Mc- Clish, a pioneer farmer of Franklin County, of Irish descent. Mr. and Mrs. Moffitt are parents of the following children: Clarence I., Arthur fe David O., Mary E., Alonzo I. and Harold R. Mr. Moffitt is a Republican in politics; has been school director and trustee of Blanchard Township. He has never united with any secret organization, except the Grange.

BEATMAN BEATTY POWELL, one of the leading farmers of Blanchard Township, P. O. Benton Ridge, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, May 14, 1833, son of Daniel and Eliza (Beatty) Powell, natives of Union and Lycoming Counties, Penn., respectively. The Powells come of a long and worthy line of Welsh pioneer ancestry in Pennsylvania. In 1803 Daniel Powell located in Fairfield County, Ohio. The subject of our sketch was reared there, and at the age of twenty-seven came to this county and took up land, clearing and improving a nice farm of eighty acres, to which he has since added nearly 300 acres, making a total of 370 acres of valuable land. He resides on Section 23, Blanchard Township. He married, in 1857, Elizabeth, daughter of John Whitehurst, of Fairfield County, Ohio, and they have a family of two sons and two daughters: Margaret Virginia, wife of Charles Heckerman, farmer, Blanchard Township, and America Belle, wife of John Kizbeth, also a farmer of Blanchard Township. His sons, Sherman Ellsworth and Henderson, are both of the same vocation as their father. Mr. Powell pays considerable attention to the rearing and breeding of fine bred cattle and hogs. He is a leading character in his locality, of a genial nature, open-hearted, frank and generous to a fault. He has oftentimes been selected by the people of his township and county to represent their interests in the councils of Blanchard Township and the county. He and his wife attend the services of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which he is a liberal contributor. Mr. Powell has always done a leading share in the support of all measures tending to the welfare of his locality. In politics he is a Democrat.

REV. JOHN POWELL, minister of the United Brethren Church, and author of the history of the Powell family, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1819, son of Philip and Elizabeth (Radebaugh) Powell, natives of Pennsylvania, of Welsh and German descent, respectively, the former of whom died in 1849. Of their family of fourteen children twelve grew to manhood and womanhood, and still survive, our subject being the eighth in the family. Rev. Jobn Powell received his schooling in Fairfield County, Ohio, and has been a ministér of the gospel since he was nineteen years of age. He traveled a circuit when he was twenty-one years of age, and has been an itinerant preacher for forty-five years. In 1878 he commenced compiling the work known as ''The Powell History,'' completing the first volume in 1880; the second volume is now nearly ready for the press. Our subject is a successful farmer and at one time owned 600 acres of land. He still owns a farm in Blanchard Township, this county. In 1843 Rev. John

Powell was united in marriage with Elizabeth Trapp, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Berkley) Trapp, of German descent. Our subject and wife have four children living: Mary K., wife of Elmer Harpst; Lydia A., wife of George W. Kinney; Ester J., wife of George Harpst, and John L., the last named being the only child of our subjoct now at home. John L. was born January 1, 1861; received his education in this eounty and is the owner of 100 acres of well improved land; he also works his father's farm, and deals in stock. He is remarkably successful as a farmer and trader; is also much interested in the breeding and rearing of horses. In politics he is a Republican.

S. G. ROBINSON, farmer and stock raiser, b. O. McComb, was born in' Erie County, N. Y., May 29, 1839, son of B. E. and Sarah (Gail) Robinson, the farmer a farmer and a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, of Irish descent; the latter a native of Erie County, N. Y., of English descent. Of their six children five are still living, the subject of this sketch being the eldest. 5S. G. Robinson was reared on the farm in Erie County, N. Y., until seven years of age; next lived on a farm in Franklin County, Ohio, until he was twenty years old; then came to this county, where he has since continued to reside. He walked the entire distance from Franklin County, Ohio, to this county, and when he arrived here he was a poor boy with only one suit of clothes and no money, but he was willing to labor. He worked out at 50 cents per day, clearing land and chopping wood; also worked by the month until he was able to buy eighty acres of wild land, which he cleared, and on which he still resides. In 1859 Mr. Robinson was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of Enoch Haddox, a native of Virginia. Five children blessed this union: Edgar, Estella, Ida, Samuel and Everett. Mrs. Robinson departed this life in 1875; she was a member of the Methodist Church. SS. G. Robinson is at present the owner of 200 acres of well improved land. In politics he is a Republican. He was a delegate to the first Republican convention, in 1856. He has been school director for twelve years, and in 1884 was elected justice of the peace.