Findlay City (part 6 of 28)

T> /?\^V?^^^^^^' ^''^^^i" a^d stock raiser, lumberman and manufacturer, F O. McComb, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, April 19, 1880, son of Ihomas H. and Susannah (Sours) Brown, natives of Ireland and Pennsylvania, respectively. Thomas H. Brown, who was a farmer, came fi-om 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. J . Brown was reared on the farm, educated in the district school in Ashland County, Ohio, and chose agricultural pursuits as his occupation In 18o4 he came to this county and settled in the northeast corner of Blanchard Township, where he bought 1(30 acres of land He now owns 22o 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 m marriage, in 1850, with Mary A., daughter of AVilliam Ewino-; her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent. The children born to this union are William, Alice J., Elizabeth Melvina and Thomas Jefterson. Mrs. Brown died in 1862, and in 1864 Mr. Brown was ao-ain married, this time to Mary W. Ray, daughter of Gyant and Sarah (Morrison) Kay, who were of Dutch and Scotch-English descent. By this union SIX children were born, four of whom are now living: Nettie Gertrude J^ rankle, 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) Caitwright, latter a native of Vircr'inia 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 childi-en, eight of whom grew to maturity. Joseph M., the subject of this sketch, the third in the family, was reared on the tarm, acquired a common school education in Putnam County, Ohio and has made farming the business of his life. In 1857 Mr. Cartwrio-ht was united in marriage with Catherine Nowlan, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Sinnott) Nowlan, natives of Nova Scotia and of Irish and Eno-lish descent, former of whom came to Ohio in an early day and settled in AVayne

County. Mr. and Mrs. Cartwriglit' s children are Eniza J., Tolethia 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 ] S75, since when he has preached, but has never accepted a local charge. Mr. Cartwright has resided in this county since 185S, and on the farm where he now lives since 18(35. He votes the Republican ticket; has been school director and township trustee; is a member of the I. O. O. F, at (lilboa.

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., l>oth of German descent. John Dennis, who was a farmer in later life, met with misfortune throiTgh tilling 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 siibject 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 185G 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 fi-aternity. 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 agricultiu'al pursuits. He served in the war of 1812. He came to this county in 1880 and helped organize Blanchard Township. William Downing was appointed the Urst postmaster in Blanchard Township, this county, and served in that cajjacity 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, retired 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 800 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, 1 889, 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 1805 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 Repuljlican. 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, Sr., retired farmer, P. O. Oak Ridge, one of the early pioneers of Blanchard Township, this county, was born in Franldin County, Ohio, April 0, 1811; son of John and Mary (Haddox) Dukes, natives of Virginia, and who had twelve childi-en. 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 1888, 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 Janies 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 edvTcation, and has followed agricultural pursuits with marked success. The farm on which he resides is one of the linest in the State. He now owns 1,400 acres of land, after having divided among his chiklren (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 Blauchard 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 II. 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 Orange 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. , diughter of Jacob Orose, 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 is a 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 of our subject was a native of Virginia, of English descent; came to this county 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 childi'en, 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 foiir 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 Delauey, 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: DelevanD. , 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 Diikes' 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. Fiudlay, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn. , April 25, 1825, son of Jacob and Margaret (Sheddinger) Grose, natives of Bucks County, Penn., and of German descent. 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 sis childi-en: 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. He is 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 tilled 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 depart.ed 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 24, 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, L. C. being the fourth. Our subject was reared on a farm, attended the common school and chose agricultu.re 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 of John Collingwood, a farmer in this county. Mr. Groves is the owner of 200 acres of cultivated land. He has filled the office of trustee for five years and school director for eleven years, and is at present postmaster of Oak Ridge. He became a member of the Masonic fraternity at Findlay, and has attained the degree of Master Mason in that order.

JOHN HADDOX. farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Gilboa. Putnam County, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, January 28 1830. eldest child of Mordecai and Margaret (Lanters) Haddox, the latter a native of Ger- many. They were paronts of five children. Mordecai Haddox, the father of our subject, born in Vii-ginia of German parentag-o, and who was engaged in farming all liis life, came to this county in 1 830 and entered 1 ()0 acres of land (where Samuel Haddox now resides) in Blanchard Townshij). 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 ho was united in marriage with Lydia, daughter of Jolin and Elizabeth (Bysel) Bower; Mr. Bower was born in 1808, 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, whore 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 childi-en, 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 except 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 ofiices in Jackson, Union and Blanchard Townships. During his early life he was a Democrat, 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 28, 1853, son of David (son of John, SOD 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 E. 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. Mi-. 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, 1888, 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 tinder 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 Murf reesborough 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 Jamiary, 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 thi'ough Danville, Petersl^urg, to City Point, by railroad; from City Point to Baltimore, Md. , by boat; from there to Gallipolis, Ohio, by railroad, and wasmtistered 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, 1SB6, 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. Oiir 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 chains, and has been permanent secretary for the past three years of Gilboa Lodge, No. 45U, I. O. O. F. He also joined the G. A. R., Linsey Post, No. 75, in 18S2. 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 oui" 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 covinty, 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 181 2, came to this county October 3, 1836, and settled within a few rods of where the McClish l^ridge 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 Illinois, 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 410 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 daughter has kept the children together. The family attend the Method-

THOMAS McKlNNIS, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Oak Ridge, was born on the farm adjoining where he now resides, in Liberty Township, this county, October '26, ](S2(), 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, all of 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, 1838, 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 childi-en, 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, 111., 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 fatal 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, davighter of Capt. Samuel Howard, who was several times treasurer of this coiinty, 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 childi'en: 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, Ohicj, 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 A. , 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, 1838, son of Daniel and Eliza (Boatty) 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 1808 Daniel Powell located in Fairfield County, Ohio. The suljject 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 800 acres, making a total of 870 acres of valuable land. He resides on Section 28, 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 coiincils 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 1811), 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. John Powell received his schooling in Fairfield County, Ohio, and has been a minister 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 oAvned 000 acres of land. He stili owns a farm in Blanchard Township, this county. In 1848 Rev. John

Powell was united in marriat^e with Elizaljeth Trapp, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Berkley) Traj^p, of German descent. Our suljject 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 subject now at home. John L. was born January 1, 1861; received his education in this county 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, P. O. McComb, was born in Erie County, N. Y., May 20, 1880, son of B. E. and Sarah (Gail) Robinson, the former 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. S. 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 coiinty, and when he arrived here he was a poer 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 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. S. 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.

W. S. SHAFER, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. McComb, was born in Stark County, Ohio, October 20, 1829, son of John and Mary (Putnam) Shafer, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. The father of our subject, who was a farmer, came to Allen Township, this county, about 1834, and took up land from the Government; he died in 1849. Of his family of eleven children eight grew to maturity, the subject of this sketch being the ninth child. W. S. Shafer was reared on the farm until he was seventeen years of age, and worked three years at the tailor's trade. In 1854 he was united in marriage with Jane Shaw, daughter of George Shaw, who was of Scotch and English descent, and was among the first settlers of this county, coming here in 1827 or 1828. His family consisted of eight children, Mrs. Shafer being the only one now residing in this county. Our subject and wife are the parents of eight children: Linus S., married, a farmer; L. W., farmer; Homer W., at home; Mary J. wife of B. Vandoren; Charles O., at home; Bessie May, at home, and Frank I. and Dellia C. (twins). Mr. Shafer is a member of the United Brethren Church. He has never had a lawsuit in his life; he is the owner of 180 acres of land, and has served for many years as school director.

Mary (Bachtel) Wittenmyer, natives of PeniiHylvania and of German descent, the former a shoe-maker by trade but in later life a farmer. Our subject, who is the fourth in a family of six children, was educated in the common schools. He came to Ohio with his family in 1858, and has resided in this county since 1871. He was proprietor of the hotel at Benton Ridge for several years, and was also engaged in farming. Mr. Wittenmyer is now serving his second term as justice of the peace in Blanchard Township. In politics he is a Republican. He has been successful in life, having accumulated a fair share of this world' s goods.

JOHN WORTMAN, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. McComb, was born in Lawrence County, Penn., September 10, 18!^5, son of Jacob and Rebecca (Smith) Wortman, natives of Pennsylvania, former a farmer of German descent, and latter of Irish and Dutch descent. Our subject was the third in a family of eleven children (three being deceased). In early life he taught school. In 1855 he was united in marriage with Julia, daughter of Robert and Catherine (Davis) Dilworth, of English and Holland descent, natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Wortman was a school teacher in early life. In 1857 Mr. Wortman came to this county and settled on a farm of 100 acres of land where he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Wortman are members of the Presbyterian Church in McComb, in which he is ruling elder, also at one time was assistant superintendent of the Sabbathschool. He served as township trustee for four years, has been justice of the peace four terms and was land appraiser in 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Wortman have been blessed with three childi-en: Mary Ellen (deceased), Edwin C, a farmer and school teacher, and Florence, at home.

JOHN BAKER, farmer, P. O. Arcadia, was born in Cass Township, this county, in 1847 ; son of Alexander and Catharine (Eckert) Baker, natives of Ohio. The original Baker stock came to America from England in an early day and settled near Baltimore, Md. Grafton Baker, grandfather of our subject, moved from Virginia to Carroll County, Ohio, and from there to this county about the year 1830. He had a family of five sons and one daughter. Mrs. Catharine (Eckert) Baker's people came to Cass Township, this county, from Fairfield County, Ohio, in an early day, and here settled. In 1844, after their marriage, our subject's parents came to Cass Township. The father died in 1849, leaving a family of three children - two daughters and one son, John. The eldest daughter died in 1860; the youngest married G. W\ Norris (they have a family of two sons and one daughter). The subject of this sketch was married in 1808 to Sarah C. Binger, whose parents came to this county from Carroll County, Ohio, in an early day, and to this imion have been born three children: Alexander, Lemuel and Amanda. Mr. Baker was elected to the office of justice of the peace for Cass Township in the fall of 1883, which he still holds. He resides on the old homestead, his mother, who is still living, being with him.

DAVID R. BEESON, farmer, P. O., Arcadia, was born in Fayette County, Penn., September 13, 1827. He married, July 5, 1849, Elizabeth Sangston, and in 1854 they moved to Cass Township, this county, and settled on land which his father had entered in 1832. Here they began, in the woods, to clear and improve the farm to which they have since added, until they now own 232 acres of well-improved land. To David R. Beeson and wife have been born Martha A., now Mi's. Hosier; James E. ; Eliza A., now Mrs. Frederick; John A. ; Charles C. ; Mary, now Mrs. Bish; David R. Jr. ; Jacob E. Turley and Emma I. In addition to his general farming operations, Mi-. Beeson has devoted considerable attention to buying and selling live-stock. During the war of the Rebellion he did an extensive business in dealing in horses for the United States Army. He has led a very active life, and his operations here have been attended with uniform success. He is one of the representative farmers of Cass Township, and enjoys the respect of the entire community. In politics he is a Republican.

JACOB E. BEESON, farmer, P. O. Arcadia, was born in Fayette County, Penn., January 21,1819, son of James and Agnes Beeson, who resided in Fayette County until tlieir death. Our subject married, in 1841, Eliza Dawson, who died in 1846, leaving two children, James and John (both now deceased). December 1, 1853, Mr. Beeson came to Cass Township, this county, and settled on a tract of land which had been entered by his father in 1832. Here he began improving his land, and June 20, 1869, he married Mrs. Elizabeth Bowring, a native of England and whose parents resided there until their death. She and her first husband, Benjamin W. Bowring, immigrated to Canada in 1857, and moved to the United States in 1859. Here Mr. Bowring lost his life in defense of the Union cause, in June, 1864, just one month before the expiration of his term of enlistment in the Union army. Of Mr. Bowi'ing's five children only one is now living - Margaret Elizabeth, wife of Henry B. Edwards, of Putnam County, Ohio. Mr. Beeson has been an industrious man, and has acquired a farm of 224 acres of fine land. His youngest son, John, enlisted when but sixteen years of age and served three years and four months in the Army of the Cumberland; he died in November, 1865. Mr. Beeson is a Republican in poltics.

C. W. CANFIELD, farmer, P. O. Wineland, was born in Hancock County, Ohio, January 23, 1845; son of Elijah Cyrus and Sarah Canfield, natives of Portage County, Ohio, and Luzerne County, Penn. , respectively. March 28, 1872, our subject married Maria Ames, a native of Seneca County, Ohio, born October 15, 1851, and to this union were born four children: Sarah Amanda, born December 8, 1873; William Riley, born September 19, 1875; Earl M., born March 24, 1881, died April 14, 1881, and Gertie Ethel, born December 2, 1882. Mr. Canfield is one of the enterprising men of his township and an industrious farmer. In politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN FRANKS, farmer, P. O. North Baltimore, was born April 20, 1786, in Fayette Covinty, Penn., son of John and Rachel (Huffman) Franks, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio in a very early day, being among the pioneers of Wayne County, Ohio. Our subject is the only survivor of his father's family, and was himself a soldier in the war of 1812; he was in Hull's army at the time of that General's surrender, and made his escape from the British in company with some others of that command. He now owns a piece of land on which Hull's army encamped.

Our subject helped raise Gen. Bell's house at Wooster, and also assisted in building Fort Ball. He was a poor man when he married his first wife, Sarah Musgrove. They came to this county in 1.S82 and had to cut their way from Tiffin to the farm on which they settled. Mr. Franks did most of the hauling from Sandusky to this county in an early day with an ox team, wading through swam})y lands to reach the mill. The children by his first wife are Elizabeth, Peter, Jasper, Nancy, Catherine, Rachel, Sarah and Henry, all married and living near their father. His second wife, nee Elizabeth Fast, had five childi-en: George, Isabella, Andrew J., John F. and Mary P. Mr. Franks came to this county an uneducated and a poor man, but wonderful perseverance and endurance have given him success in life, and he now owns about 2,600 acres of land on which he has located his children.

A. J. FRANKS, farmer, P. O. Bairdstown, Wood County, was born Octobers, 1851, in Cass Township, this county, son of John and Elizabeth (Fast) Franks. John Franks, the father of our subject, is one of the oldest pioneers in Cass Township, and one of the largest land owners in this county. Our subject was united in marriage. May 24, 1873, with Olive Enswinger, of Wayne County, Ohio, and their union has been blessed with four children: Sarah E., John H., Nellie M. and Lucy P. G.

WILLIAM REID, farmer, P. O. Wineland, was born in Perrysburgh, Wood Co., Ohio, sou of Robert and Isabell (Forrester) Reid, natives of Scotland, and who came to America in 1835, settling in Perrysburgh, Wood Co., Ohio, where they died. They were the parents of nine children, of whom four are now living: Thomas, Robert, Isabell (wife of Dallas Anderson), and William. The subject of this sketch was married August 25, 1857, to Emily, second daughter of Jacob Shaffer. Her father came to this county in 1835 and settled in Cass Township, where he entered 240 acres of land. To our subject and wife have been born six childi'en: Margaret (married to George B. Bowman), James, John, Ida, (deceased wife of Hosea Nelson), George (deceased), and Charles. Our subject was a soldier in the late war, having enlisted in Company F, Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in August, 1862, and served until June 9, 1865, when he was discharged; he was in the Fourteenth Army Corps, under Gen. Rosecrans. Mr. Reid lost his health in the army and has never fully recovered from the effects. He is the owner of a fine farm of seventy-five acres of land (a part of the Shaffer farm) in Cass Township, this county. In politics he is a Republican.

ANDREW SHAFER, farmer, P. O. Wineland, was born in Cass Township, this county, in June, 1839, son of Jacob and Elizabeth Shafer; the latter, whose maiden name was Jack, was the Widow Kensinger prior to her marriage with our subject's father. Jacob and Elizabeth Shafer were the parents of four children: Eliza J., wife of Thomas Ford; Emily, wife of William Reid; Sarah, wife of Owen Laney, and Andrew. The subject of this sketch resides on the farm where he was born, and which is a part of a 240- acre tract of land entered by his father on coming to this county in 1834-35. Mr. Shafer is a thorough farmer and has made many improvements on the place since his father's death.. He was united in marriage in April, 1864, with Rebecca Crow, who died, leaving one child, Harriet Rebecca, now the wife or Jacob Hill. After the death of his first wife our subject was married again; this time, in 1869, to Sabilla Lanning, and by

JACOB STECKER, farmer, P. O. Findlay, was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, December 6, 1824. and came with his parents, Gottleiband Caroline Stecker, to America, and to Big Lick Township, this county, in 1 841. Gottleib Stecker died in 1868; his widow still resides on the home farm, in Big Lick Township. Jacob Stecker married, May 1, 1853, Miss Rosanna Klink, of Crawford County, Ohio, and they .then settled in the southern \rdvt of Cass Township, this county. To them were born four childi'en, two of whom are now living: Catherine, wife of Alden H. Cobb, and Daniel, who is now a student at the Ohio Wesleyan University. After the death of his first wife, May 1, 1877, Jacob Stecker married, April 8, 1879, Miss Maria Jameson, daughter of Rev. Ira Jameson, of Big Lick Township, this county. Our subject has been industrious and successful in life, and has acquired a line farm of 227 acres of fertile land. He has erected thereon a handsome brick residence, and made many other valuable improvements. In politics he is a Republican. He was elected justice of the peace in 1870, which position he held, by re-election, until 1 882, and has discharged his duties faithfully and to the satisfaction of the people. Mr. and Mrs. Stecker are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was largely instrumental in erecting the handsome structure, Salem Church, in Cass Township, this county. He is strictly a self-made man, and has made excellent use of the limited advantages he has enjoyed here in his adopted country. He is a valuable citizen, highly respected by the entire community.

THOMAS WILSON ARNOLD, farmer, P. O. Forest, Hardin County , was born January 24, 1829, in Athens County, Ohio. His parents, Thomas and Rachel Arnold, moved to Delaware County, Ohio, about 1831 or 1832, where they resided until their death, an event that left our subject at the age of fifteen years to take care of himself, and he came the following year to Delaware Township, this county. Here he lived with William Moore, and afterward purchased a piece of land in Pleasant Township, this county, and in June, 1851, he married, in Pleasant Township, Miss Rachel Nicholson, who had been a resident of Wood County, Ohio, from girlhood. They sold their property in Pleasant Township, and located where they now reside, in Delaware Township. Hancock County, in 1853, where they have a farm of 160 acres of land, after having given eighty acres to their sons. The children of our subject and wife were Mrs. Amelia Reigle, Aaron (killed in 1864, at the age of twenty years, by falling from a tree), Francis M., Mrs. Eliza Malone, Stephen A., Rebecca, Thomas W., Mary and Rachel. Mrs. Arnold died in September, 1870, and in 18/3 Mr. Arnold married, for his second wife, IVIi-s. Sarah A. Martin; they have one son, AVilliam Alton. Mr. Arnold, formerly a Whig, has been a Republican in politics ever since the organization of. the pai'ty. He is an enterprising and successful farmer, and one of the leading citizens of Delaware Township. In August, 1862, in response to the President's call for 600,000 troops, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, and took part in many of the battles of the campaigns in Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia. He received an honorable discharge from the service in August, 1 864, on account of disabilities. His record in the army is that of a brave and faithful soldier, who was always ready for the discharge of his duty.

AARON FENTON BURSON, retired physician, Mt. Blanchard, was born August 27, 1812, in Loudoun County, Va., son of George and Susanna (Kent) Burson, who settled in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1818. They reared a family of nine children, the Doctor being their seventh child. After receiving a literary education our subject entered upon the study of medicine, in 1829, under the celebrated Dr. George McCook, Professor of Surgery in the University at Baltimore, Md. , and father of Gen. McCook. Dr. Burson completed his course in the Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati, and in 1832 began the practice of his chosen profession at Mt. Blanchard, this county, where he has since resided. He was the first physician in Delaware Township, and also the first physician in this part of the county. He was widely known for his skill and success in treating milk-sickness and the numerous malarial troubles which afflicted the pioneers of the early days. He built up a very large practice, which extended into parts of several of the adjoining counties, and, on retiring, in 1862, he found it very difficult to relinquish his connection. Bu.t, having acquired a competency, and finding that, after having practiced medicine for over thirty years, further active interest in the profession would be injurious to his health, he retired, and for years has devoted himself to experimental chemistry. Dr. Burson has discovered a process for producing engravings by light and electricity, a process by which a reproduction of photographs, drawings, engravings, etc., can be produced in the most minute detail, and either in relievo or intaglio, as desired. A brief outline of his process, which the Doctor has named " Helio-chemical Engraving," may be here given: A metal plate is first highly polished, then sensitized to light and placed under the di-awing, photograph or other object desired to be reproduced. It is then exposed to the light for a short time, and after certain manipulations, the plate is placed in the decomposition cell of a galvanic battery, and left there long enough to receive a metallic deposit, which elevates the lights and leaves the shades sunken, so that the shades will hold ink, and impressions can betaken fi-om the plate by means of a press; or, after silver or gold has been deposited on the lights, the plate itself may be framed and kept, the same as a photograph, engraving or other picture.

JEREMIAH DRAKE, Jr., farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born May 15, 1848, in Southampton County, Va. His father, Jeremiah Drake, Sr., was born in Southampton County, Va., October 15, 1804, of English descent; married. January 5, 1830, Miss Priscilla Williams, a native of North Cai'olina. They lived in Sussex County, Va. , from 1853 to 1860, then came to Madison Township, this county, and finally settled in Delaware Township, this county, in 1862. To them were born the following named children: Benjamin, residing in Marion Coimty, Ohio; John W. and William Allen (they were soldiers in the One Hundred and Thirty-third Regiment Ohio National Guards, and died at New Creek, Va.), Henry (deceased), Eliza (Mrs. Priscilla Osborne), Mrs. Temperance Eldert and Jeremiah, Jr. Our subject came to this county with his parents when twelve years of age. June 8, 1871, he married Miss TamseriR. Harris, and to them was born one son, who died in infancy. They have adopted and reared in their family Wilbert L.. son of William Warner, of this county. Since their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Drake have lived one year in Morrow County, and five years in Marion County, Ohio. They purchased their present farm in Delaware Townhsip, this county, in 1883. Mr. Drake devotes a great deal of attention to buying and shipping live-stock. He is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

DAVID M. DREISBACH, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Mount Blanchard, Ohio, was born September "28, 1845, in Pickaway County, Ohio. His father, Rev. Abraham E. Dreisbach, a native of Berks County, Penn. , was a son of Rev. John Dreisbach. one of the first preachers of the Evangelical Association and the founder of their present extensive publishing interests. Rev. John Dreisbach will be remembered as having done a large pioneer work for the church in Ohio, at Cleveland, Circleville, Dayton and other points; he died August 20, 1871, in his eighty-third year. While living in Pennsylvania he was twice elected to the Legislature. Rev. Abraham E. Dreisbach married Miss Marianna Miesie, in 1840, and they moved to Seneca County, Ohio, near Tiffin, about 1852. He made that place the center of his work in the ministry nearly all the remainder of his life. He was well known as a popular preacher in many of the churches in this county, where he traveled for four years as a presiding elder. He died August 28, 1876. Of his ten childi-en four are now living in this county: Cornelius M., Grabriel M., Marianna M. and David M. The mother died February 9, 1857. David M. Dreisbach, the subject of this sketch, gave ten months of his time (fi'om Febriiary to December) in 1865 to the service of his country, after which he carried on a grocery business and a grist-mill at Benton Ridge, Ohio, for two years. He married, October 15, 1867, Miss Caroline W^agner, who was born May 6, 1846, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Wagner. Our subject and wife resided in Findlay Township, this county, for ten years, and settled on their present place in Delaware Township, this county, in 1881. Here they have a fine farm of 240 acres of well improved land. Mr. Dreisbach is a successful breeder of fine stock and has a fine flock of French merino sheep, a herd of thorough-bred shoii horn cattle and several Poland China hogs. The children born to our subject and wife are Lillie W., Silas W., Helena W'., AVilliam H. W., Aaron W., David W. and Arthur W. Mr. and Mrs. Dreisbach are members of the Evangelical Association. He is an earnest Republican in politics and takes a deep interest in public aflPairs. He pays a great deal of attention to the education of his family, and has one of the finest private libraries in Delaware Township. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. and is a F. & A. M.

ISAIAH EAIRLEYWINE, farmer. P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born October 25, 1836, in Knox County, Ohio, ; sen of George and Susan (Dyal) Eairleywine, early settlers of that county, the former a native of soiathern Pennsylvania, and the latter a native of Fairfield County, Ohio. They came to Delaware Township, this county, in November, 1836, purchased a tract of land and began clearing up and developing a farm. They reared a family of nine children : Aaron, in Kosciusko County, Ind. ; Mrs. Mary A. Wolfort; Mrs. Sophia Davis; Lewis; Uriah; Isaiah; Mrs. Celina Hook; Mrs. Lovina Aurand and Adam. George Eairleywine, now ninety years of age, resides in Mount Blanchard, this county. He is one of the oldest and most highly respected of the pioneers of Delaware Township, this county. His wife died March 4, 1869. Isaiah Eairleywine responded to the President's first call for troops, and enlisted, in March, 1861, in defense of his country, serving faithfully as a soldier. October 22. 1868, he married Miss Margaret Weir, and they then settled in Delaware Township, this coiinty, where they have a fine farm of eighty acres of land. Their children are Robert W., Mrs. Eleanor Gordon, Elizabeth and Thurman. In politics Mr. Eairleywine is a Democrat. He has filled the office of township trustee. He is a member of the Disciples Church, his wife being a Presbyterian.

ISAAC F. ELDER, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born in Delaware Township, this county, January 21, 1846, on the farm on which he now resides. Josiah Elder, his father, a famous pugilist in early times and a typical pioneer of the old school, married, September 27, 1832, Miss Sarah Ann Cessna, who was born in Bedford County, Penn. , January 17, 1813 (her father, John Cessna, a soldier in the war of 1812, moved to Coshocton County, Ohio, in 1814, and to Hardin County, Ohio, in 1831). She was very strong and active, and could handle an ax as skillfully as a man. She and her sister, Rebecca, cut all the logs for their cabin while their father was gone to Bellefontaine to mill. Josiah Elder and his wife cleared up a large farm on Blanchard River. Of their eleven children foiu' are now living: Franklin, in Missouri; Jonathan, in Kansas; Mrs. Sarah Ann Pugh and Isaac F. Josiah Elder died May 1, 1868. His widow now resides in Mount Blanchard, this county. Isaac F. Elder married, January 1, 1874, Miss Charlotte Greer, daughter of John Greer. They have six childi-en : Muzetta, Zoa, Zeller, Squire, Zana and Frank. August 7, 1879, Mr. Elder and his two daughters were struck by an express train as they were attempting to di'ive across the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railway track near Forest, their wagon and team being literally torn to pieces. The girls escaped with slight injuries, but Mr. Elder received injuries from which he has never fully recovered. Mr. and Mrs. Elder ''are members of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu'ch.

GEORGE SILAS FAHL, farmer, miller and manufacturer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born May 25, 1840, in Delaware Township, this county. He received his education' in the schools of the home district, and his boyhood was spent at work on the farm and in the saw and grist-mill owned by his father. February 22, 1861, our subject was united in marriage with Mary C. Hempy, born in Hancock County, O., January 14, 1844, daughter of Henry and Anna (Hall) Hempy. Since their marriage our svibject and wife have resided on their present farm of 399.^ acres of well improved land on the Blanchard River, in Delaware Township, this county. Their children are Monroe, Emma E., Bertha Gay. Arizona Jay, Owen H., Theron I., Marvin H., Clarence S. , Edson E. and Allie G. In 1862 our subject came into possession of the mill which was established by Godfrey Wolford, and now operates it as a grist and flouring-mill with a saw-mill addition. In 1872 he established a steam planing-mill, shingle-mill, lath factory, etc., to which he added, in 1880, the cider-mill which took the premium at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Penn., and he makes over 75,000 gallons of cider per year. Mr. Fahl is an energetic business man, highly respected by the entire community.

ABDIEL GOBKECHT, farmer, P. O. Arlington, was born January 14, 1831, in York County, Penn., son of William and Elizabeth Gobrecht, who resided in Pennsylvania until their death. Our subject married, March 8, 1852, Miss Caroline M. Hinch. and they then came to Delaware Township, this county, in the fall of 1853, and bought a tract of eighty acres of land, where they now reside, and which they have improved and developed, making it one of the finest farms in this part of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Gobrecht reared eight childi-en : Mrs. Elizabeth Lackey (deceased), Mrs. Mary Treece, Mrs. Emma Bowman, AVilliam E., Oliver T., Etta May, Jacob W. and Carrie Myrtle. Mr. Abdiel Gobrecht is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church.

SAMUEL FORD GREER, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born in Delaware Township, this county, July 8, 1851, son of John Greer, who was born May 15, 1812, in Stark County, Md. His parents moved to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 181(3, finally settling in Delaware Township, this county, in the spring of 1825. Here John Greer married, in 1836, Miss Mary Brown, who was born in June, 1813, in Pickaway County, Ohio, and came to this county about 1832; they settled on a farm in Delaware Township, this county, near Mount Blanchard, which they afterward sold, and then entered another place of 168 acres, one mile east of Mount Blanchard; they reared twelve childi-en: Joshua (who died in California). John (residing in California), Mrs. Sarah Armstrong (in Missouri), Hemy (in California), Eliza (in California), William, Nathan (in California), Mrs. Ellen Cole, Mrs. Charlotte Elder, Samviel Ford, Mrs. Harriet Messimore, and Jefferson (in California). The father died -October 24, 1882; the mother now resides in Mount Blanchard, this county. The subject of this sketch married, Februar}^ 1(5, 1871, Miss Catherine Corbin, and after residing for five years in Amanda Township, this county, they located in Delaware Township, where they now reside and own 112 acres of land. Their children are Darwin, Jefferson, Elmer, Virgie, Bertie and John. Mr. Greer is a Democrat in politics. He is a successful farmer and an enterprising man. enjoying the respect of the entire communitv.

MELANCTHON S. HAMLIN, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born July 29, 1818, on the present site of Cleveland, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio. At the age of six years he came with his parents to Crawford County, Ohio, and in March following (1825) they started for this county, landing in Delaware Township after a three days' trip with oxen and wagon, and here they endured the hardships and privations peculiar to pioneer life in those early days. The mother died in this county in 1837 and the father afterward moved to Wyandot County, Ohio, and there died in 1854. At the age of nineteen years our subject purchased, of Henry Green, a tract of eighty acres of land; this was his first venture in real estate. January 30, 1840, Mr. Hamlin was married to Miss Mary Marshall, and they settled down to their life work in Delaware Township, this county. Our subject engaged in farming and buying and selling stock, and adding to his farm until he now has, in and adjoining the town of Mount Blanchard, 720 acres of as good land as there is in the county. In 1854 he established a general merchandise store which he caiTied on until 1861. In 1882 he began the erection of a brick edifice on his place; this he has completed and it stands to-day one of the largest, best constructed and finely finished residences in northwestern Ohio. To Melancthon S. Hamlin "and wife have been born one son, John M., residing in Findlay. Ohio, and one daughter, Mrs. Eliza J. McVay, residing in Mount Blanchard, this county.

JACOB HARRIS, Esq. (deceased), was born June 26, 18'28, in Columbiana County, Ohio, and came to this county with his parents, William and Nancy (Sterling) Harris, libout 1830. Both his parents lived to an advanced ao-e and died in this coiuity. Jacob Harris ccmipleted his education under the Rev. Emerson, in Mt. Blanchard, Ohio. He early engaged in teach incr, a profession he followed for about twelve years. He married Miss Susan E. Chase April '22, 1852, and they moved at once to their farm in Delaware Township, this county, where they went to work in the woods clearing up and developing a tine farm. They retired from this in November, 1879, and moved to Mt. Blanchard, this county, where Mr. Harris died August 23, 1880. He was a life long Republican and was prominent in pablic affairs. He served as township clerk for seven years and justice of the peace for twelve years, being elected unanimously the last term. Mr. and Mrs. Harris were parents of four children: Mrs. Tamsen R. Drake. Chester M., Judah E. (deceased) and Luella A. Mrs. Harris now resides in Mt. Blanchard, this county; she and her entire family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CHESTER M. HARRIS, farmer and stock dealer, P. O. Mt. Blanchard, was born October 7, 1856, in Delaware Township, this county, on the farm on which he now resides. After completing a course in the home district school he attended three terms at Mt. Blanchard school and then engaged in teaching for two terms in Marion County, Ohio, in the intervals attend ing the Marion High School. SeptemVwr 9, 1879, Mr. Harris married Miss Lizzie A. Lee, daughter of Martin Lee, of Marion County, Ohio, and they then settled on the old homestead farm, where they still reside. They have two sons: Earl C. and Clark J. Mr. and Mrs. Harris are consistent mem bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is an earnest Republican and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is an enterprising and energetic voung farmer, enjoying the respect of the community in which he lives.

JOHN W. HUGHES, of the firm Hughes Bros. , Mt. Blanchard, was born August 21, 1849, in Franklin County, Ohio, and married Miss Emma Coleman, in 1872. He spent two years in Monroeville, Ind. , prosecuting his business as a harness maker, and several years in North Baltimore and Fostoria, Ohio, carrying on the butchering business. He finally, in 1883, formed a partnership with his brother, Barrett J. , in the dry goods busi ness, which partnership still continues. Their store is located at Mt. Blanchard, this county, where they carry a large stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., and are doing a thriving business. Mr. Hughes has two childi-en : Charles and Bernice. The Hughes Bros, are among the solid and reliable business men of Mt. Blanchard, and their success speaks well for their enterprise and energy.

BARRETT J. HUGHES, of the firm Hughes Bros., Mt. Blanchard, was born November 28, 1852, in Franklin Coiinty, Ohio. His parents, James B. and Miriam (Dougherty) Hughes, both natives of Ohio, came to Amanda Township, this county, in 1860, and remained there on a farm until 1807, when they removed to Vanlue, Ohio, and finally settled perma nently in Mt. Blanchard, this county, in 1869. Here our subject began clerking for J. H. Biddle & Co. in 1871, remaining with them until March, 1883, with the exception of six months spent with E. & A. Thompson,

Mansfield, Ohio, in 1874. In March, 1883, Mr. Hughes, in partnership with his brother, J. W. , established a store in North Baltimore, Wood Co. , Ohio, and in March, 3881, they moved to Mt. Blanchard, this county, and located in the building formerly occupied by Biddle & Co. Here Huc^hes Bros, have a complete stock of dry goods, groceries, hats and caps, boots and shoes, clothing, millinery and notions. Their thorough acquaintance with the people and their uniform courtesy have enabled them to build up a large and flourishing trade.

SAMUEL HUMPHREY, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born June 27. 1811, in Columbiana County, Ohio. At the age of eighteen years he began running a boat from Cincinnati, Ohio, to New Orleans, La. , "which occupation he followed until 1834. He married Miss Susannah Dorrow in 3841. He had previously walked out to Delaware Township, this county, in company with his father, and entered land, and after his marriage he and his wife at once located on this property, which is now the family homestead, and which he added to until he finally owned 400 acres. There is now only one other man living in Delaware Township who entered land from the Government. Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey were parents of nine children: Mary A. , Margaret C. , Mrs. Elizabeth Jane Woods and Susan Louisa Scott are deceased; and William D., John J., Samuel E., Mrs. Mollie A. Ballard and Ida S. are yet living. Mrs. Humphrey died November 13, 1883; she had been a member of the Christian Church since 1841. Mr. Humphrey has also been a member of that church since same date. He now resides on the homestead, enjoying the peace and quiet of an honored old age.

WILLIAM D. HUMPHREY, teacher and farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born April 2, 1853, in Delaware Township, this county, son of Samuel and Susannah (Dorrow) Humphrey. William D. Humphrey was reared on his father' s farm, iind after completing a course in the schools of the home district, he attended a short term each in the high schools at Mt. Blanchard, Findlay and Dunkirk, Ohio. He then taught a term of four months near Forest, Ohio, and afterward entered upon a course of instruction in the Northwestern Ohio Normal School, Ada, Ohio, in 1874. He continued this course, alternating with terms of teaching, until 1881. December 29, 1881, he married Mary Bell, of Logan County, Ohio. They purchased 160 acres of land, a part of the homestead farm, and located in Delaware Township, this county, where they now reside. They have one daughter, Bertha Bell, and an infant son. Mr. Humphrey has taught school, in all, thirty nine terms in Hancock, Hardin, Allen and Logan Counties, Ohio, including two years in the Union School of Mt. Blanchard, and the same length of time at Scott's Crossing. Allen Co., Ohio, and six years in home school. He has made thorough preparation for the profession of teacher, and has a fine record as a faithful and efficient instructor. Our subject is a Republican in politics; he takes a deep interest in public affairs, and is regarded as one of the leading citizens of Delaware Township.

GEORGE KETCH, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born April 16, 1824, in Columbiana County, Ohio, son of Thomas and Ann (Bilger) Ketch, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of whom died in 1832; the latter brought her family to Hardin County, Ohio, in 1836, and died in Delaware Township, this county, in 1868, while living with her son Thomas. George Ketch, the youngest in a family of six children, lived in Hardin County, Ohio, until his marriage with Miss Adeline Warner, March 16, 1848, when they at once moved to their farm in Delaware Township, this county, which he had then owned for several years, and on which they still reside. Here they went to work in the woods, clearing up and improving their farm, and they now have I'iO acres of fertile and well improved land, after having given their children KM) acres. Mrs. Ketch died in October, 1859, leaving three chikli'en: Thomas E., Clark and Sarah, who afterward married W. ¥. Cook, son of D wight Cook, a well known pioneer. After the death of his first wife Mr. Ketch married Miss Adeline Johnson, who died in February, 1871, leaving a daughter, Laura; and for his third wife our subject then married Mrs. Paulina Switzer; she has one daughter, Lula Clare. Mrs. Ketch is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Ketch cast his first presidential vote for Franklin Pierce, and has been a supporter of the Democratic party ever since. He is an enterprising and successful farmer, an upright and useful citizen, highly respected by the entire community.

CLARK KETCH, farmer, P. O. Wharton, Wyandot County, was born May 1, 1852, in Delaware Township, this county, son of the well-known pioneer, George Ketch. Our subject was reared on his father's farm, and received his education in the schools of the home district. He was married, September 4, 1873, to Miss Ellen F. Chase, and to them were born two childi'en: Ora, who died at the age of three years, and Merle, who died when three months old. IVL*. Ketch has a fine farm of 224 acres of land, in Delaware Township, this county, where he devotes considerable attention to live-stock. He is an enterprising and successful young farmer, and enjoys the respect of the entire community. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

MILTON MAY, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born in Brooke County, Va. (now W^st Virginia), January 30,1829. In 1850 he went with the gold hunters to California and remained there six months; during this time he had a severe attack of mountain fever. He decided to return to his native county, and leaving San Franciso, with only one dime in his pocket, he worked before the mast for his passage to Panama, and arriving there, engaged at carpenting for two months, then crossed the Isthmus to Chagres, and shipped for New Orleans, being promoted on the voyage to second mate. - Arriving in New Orleans, he made his way up the Mississippi River to Steubenville, Ohio, and in the spring of 1852, he came to Delaware Township, this county, where he had previously acquired a tract of land. This land he now began clearing up and improving, antl September 15, 1853, he married Sarah Louisa Smith, daughter of the pioneer Abij ah Smith, and they located in their present home in Delaware Township, this county, in the spring of 1857; hore they have a fine farm of eighty-one acres of well improved land; they also own a tract of 137 acres in Delaware and Amanda Townships, this county. Mr. and Mrs. May have two children: Dr. A. S. May, in Donaldson, Marshall Co., Ind., and Lewis B., at home. Mr. May is a member of the Methodist Church, Mrs. May of the Presbyterian.

JOSEPH MOORE, farmer, P. O. Forest, Hardin County, was born June 6, 1815, in Beaver County, Penn. , and when he was seventeen months old his parents, William and Amelia Moore, brought him to Athens County, Ohio. The parents afterward spent nine years in Delaware County, Ohio, and came in 1839 to Delaware Township, this coiinty, where they entered 160 acres of land from the Government, and cleared up a farm. Of their thirteen children seven are now living: Mrs. Margaret Durfee (in Rockport, Mo.), John (in Hancock County), Mrs. Eleanor Gallant (in Delaware County, Ohio), Mrs. Charlotte Calvert (in Athens County, Ohio), Samuel (in Delaware County, Ohio), Joseph and Mrs. Emily Gallant William Moore died December 12, 1852, aged seventy-seven years, and his widow May 18, 1858, aged seventy-seven years; they were upright pioneers, highly respected by all who knew them. The subject of this sketch spent eleven years of his life in Delaware County, Ohio. He married, October 20, 1836, Miss Martha E. Thompson of Athens County, Ohio, and they moved at once to Delaware County, Ohio, and from there, in 1843, to their present home in Delaware Township, this county. Here they have a fine farm of 236 acres of well improved land. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have been blessed with six children, three of whom are now living: Sidney F. (in Forest, Hardin Co., Ohio), Naaman T., and Mrs. Mary C. Gilbert, in Forest. Those deceased are Mrs. Paulina Miller, Rebecca and Eliza E. Sidney F. and Naaman T., gave their services, from September, 1862, to the close of the war, in defense of the Union. July 10, 1873, while cutting wheat with a reaper, our subject met with an accident which resulted in the loss of his left leg below the knee. JMr. Moore, formerly a Whig, has been a Republican since the organization of that party. He has served his township for several terms as trustee, and is one of the successful farmers and reliable citizens of Delaware Township, highly respected by his fellow citizens. ^ THOMAS MUSGRAVE (deceased) was born March 5, 1827, in Coshocton County, Ohio, son of William and Margaret Musgrave, who came to Delaware Township, this county, in 1832, where they still reside. Our subject was reared on his father's farm and shared the lot of a pioneer's son. He married, July 1, 1849, Miss Margaret Ann Wineland, born May 15, 1830, in Richland County, Ohio, and who came to this county in 1847 with her parents, John and Mary Wineland, who resided here until their death. Mr. and Mi's. Musgrave resided in Delaware Township, this county, from the date of their marriage. In 1863 they settled on their present homestead, where he had a tine farm of 200 acres of well improved land. To our subject and wife were born the following named children: John W\ (married Miss Emma Moore and resides on the farm), Washington (in Jay County, Ind.), Franklin, Mary Jane, Mrs. Angeline Castor, Mrs. Laura Sink and Ulysses S. Mr. Musgrave died June 22, 1880. He was a Republican in politics and took a deep interest in public affairs, serving as township trustee. He was an upright citizen, a man of much influence in the community. His widow now resides on the family homestead.

SAMUEL R. PHILLIPS, farmer, P. O. Forest, Hardin County, born in Athens County, Ohio, July 30, 1815, is a son of Daniel and Abigail (Cady) Phillips, natives of Vermont and Connecticut, respectively, who resided for some years near Cooperstown, N. Y. , and afterward moved to Pennsylvania; they came to Marietta, Ohio, in 1812, and finally settled in Ames Township, Athens Co., Ohio, in 1814, and theie Daniel Phillips died in 1831; his father was a soldier under Gen. W^ashington in the war of the Revolution for seven years, and died in 1835. The mother of Daniel Phillips was present at the massacre at Wyoming. Samuel R. Phillips, the subject of this sketch, came to Delaware Township, this county, with his mother and an elder brother. Job, in the fall of 1835; his mother resided here until her death, which occurred in 1849, in her seventy sixth year. In

August, 1836, he entered eighty acres of land, which he still owns; there is but one other man in Delaware Township, this county, who is living on land originally entered by himself from the Government. Mr. Phillips has added eighty acres of land to his original entry and now owns 1(50 acres of line farming land. In 1842 he taught the first school in his district, teach - ino- in all four terms. July 8, 1849, he married Miss Matilda Roby, who was born in Franklin County, Ohio, January 80, 1817, and came to Hardin County. Ohio, in 1883 with her parents, Josiah and Margaret (Elsey) Roby. To Samuel R. Phillij^s and wife were born three sons: David Isaac, Daniel Josiah (deceased) and Samuel Hanson. Our subject cast his first presiden tial vote fof Henry Clay, and has suj^ported the Whig and Republican parties ever since. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episco pal Church. Mr. Phillips is a man of upright principles and strict integrity, greatly respected and esteemed by all who know him.

CHARLES RAMSEY, retired farmer, P. O. Dunkirk, Hardin County, was born in Montgomery County, Md. , in 1804. He was declared free at the age of twenty-one by the will of his owner, but^id not really obtain his freedom until he was thirty years old. Our subject ran a ferry boat twentyfive years on the Ohio River at Steubenville, and amassed a considerable sum of money. In 1858 he came to Delaware Township, this county, and began clearing up and farming '240 acres of land he had purchased in 1887 ; at one time he owned 520 acres of land. In 1868 his wife died. Of her ten children three ai'e now living: Mrs. Christyann L. Hawkins, Martha Jane and Emily L. In August, 1871, Charles Ramsey married, for his second wife, Mrs. Louisa Watson, who died of heart disease May 16, 1885. while visiting her daughter at Forest, Ohio. Mr. Ramsey now owns a fine farm of 240 acres of land in this county, besides having given liberally to his children. He also owns a comfortable house in Dunkirk, Hardin Co., Ohio, to which he moved in 1882 and where he is living a somewhat retired life, enjoying the peace and quiet of a prosperous old age. His daughters are members of the United Brethren Church. He has been a church member since he was eleven years of age, and is now a member of the Wesleyau Church. When he was a little boy, on being I'eproved by a gentleman for swearing, Charles made the remark: "I throw it all in the fire," and he has never been known to swear since that time. He also formed his habit of saving while very young, by taking the timely advice of a fi-iend. Charles Ramsey has been an industrious and energetic citizen and is very highly respected wherever known.

JAMES RAMSEY, retired farmer, P, O. Williamstown, was born June 1, 1805, in Montgomery County, Md. He left Maryland in 1885 and came to Steubenville, Ohio. He ferried and farmed for seven years. He pur chased 100 acres of land in Delaware Township, this county, in 1839, which he paid for by working for 50 cents per day; he came out and took possession of his property in April, 1842. His sister, Eletha Ramsey, came here and resided with him until her death, which occurred April 18, 1884, in her eighty -third year. James Ramsey is an earnest member of the United Brethren Chiu-ch. He has never taken upon himself the cares of the matrimonial relation, but his life has been devoted principally to the benefit of others. He is strictly a self-made man, and his record in this community is such that he is respected wherever he is known. In politics he is a life-long Republican.

AARON F. BURSON ROSE, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born August 13, 1841, in Delaware Township, this county. His parents, John and Margaret (Berry) Rose, natives of Maryland and Virginia, respectively, and early settlers of Fairfield County, Ohio, located in Delaware Township, this county, in 1828, the former having previously entered a farm, in 1828, on Blanchard River, and this farm they then began to clear and improve. John Rose was a strong Whig, afterward a Republican; he was one of the early commissioners of this county, and for seventeen years he was treasurer of Delaware Township, this county; a man of wonderful energy and strength of character, he exerted a powerful influence over those with whom he associated; he was very firm in his temperance principles, which he exemplified by practice as well as precept. His wife died January 6, 18()3. and he followed her March '21, 1888, in his ninetieth year. They were parents of the following named children: Joel B. , deceased, at the age of twenty-three years; James Gr., in Michigan; Mrs. Elizabeth Hall, in Carroll County, Mo.; Elias Y., in Howard County, Wis.; John A., in Carroll County, Mo. ; Mrs. Sarah Eairleywine, deceased, at age of thirty-three years ; Amos H. . in Carroll County, Mo. ; Mrs. Amanda Elder, in Pike County, Mo. ; two who died in infancy, and Aaron F. Burson. The subject of this sketch enlisted September 1, 1862, in the One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving in the xirmy of the Cumberland and taking part in many of the memorable engagements throughout Tennessee, Georgia and vicinity. He received his dischai*ge August 8, 1865, leaving an honorable record as a brave and faithful soldier, and on returning home he married, December 7, 1865, Miss Mary A. Roller. Our subject and wife now own and occupy the old homestead farm of 167 acres of well improved land; this farm has never been out of the Rose family's possession since it was first entered. Mr. and Mrs. Rose have eight childi-en: John M., Elmer W., Hettie J., William R., Samuel E., Arthur K., Perry B. and Maggie E. Our subject is an enthusiastic Ref)ublican and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is at present trustee of Delaware Township, a position he has filled for three years.

SOLOMON SHAFER, farmer, P. O. Mount Blanchard, was born near Mount Vernon, Knox Co. , Ohio, March 23, 1836. His father, Michael Shafer, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Knox County, Ohio, in early boyhood, and there, in 1819, married Miss Nancy Ireland. Michael Shafer came to this county in 1835 with part of his family, and in 1836 returned to Knox County, Ohio, for the rest of them, bringing them back with him to this county. He cleared up two farms in Delaware Township, this county, and was one of the earliest settlers, as well as one of the foremost in the development and improvement of -the town. He kept the Mount Blanchard Hotel fi'om 1887 to 1850, and was one of the most highly respected and honored of oui* pioneer citizens. His death occurred in 1852 ; his widow died in 1869, while residing with her son, Solomon. The children of Michael Shafer and wife were Hezekiah, in Mexico, Mo. ; Mrs. Rhoda Miller (deceased); Mrs. Christy Ann Taylor, in Decatur, 111. ; Michael Jackson, in Dubuque, Iowa; Mrs. Mary Fahl. in Mount Blanchard, Ohio; Isaiah, in Forest, Ohio; Solomon (deceased); Henry AVitt, in Hebron, Ind. ; Solomon, in Mount Blanchard, Ohio; Morgan D , in Findlay. Ohio; x4.aron B. in Findlay. Ohio, and Mrs. Laura J. Smith, in Lacon, 111. They are an intelligent and enterprising family, and are occupying high positions in business and society. The subject of this sketch received his education in the schools of Mount Blanchard. He married Miss Mary Elizabeth Hoge, of Amanda Township, this county, September 20, 1860, and they located in Delaware Township, this county, where they now reside, and where they have a fine farm of 100 acres of land, all in the corporation of Mount Blanchard. They also own about 500 acres of land in other farms in this and Van Wert Counties. To Mr. and Mrs. Shafer has been born one daughter - Anna Lorena. Mr. Shafer was elected auditor of this county in the fall of 1864, on the Democratic ticket. He took his position in March following, and was re-elected in 1866, serving in all four years; he was the youngest man who ever occupied that position. Mrs. Shafer is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church.

JAMES C. TREECE, postmaster at Mount Blanchard, was born in Jackson Township, this county, March 1 , 1851. His father, John, the son of Henry Treece, a native of New England, married. May 12. 1841, Sarah, daughter of Henry Treece, of Pennsylvania, and they reared a family of four sons and one daughter: William B., born November 24, 1848, married to Mary J. Marshall; Mary C, born February 6, 1845, married to William W. Anderson; James C.-, Isaac N., born January 7, 1854, married to Mary E. Gobrecht; John T., born April 24, 1860, married to Minnie E. Fahl. They came to this county in 1832, and resided in Delaware Township until his death, which occurred March 7, 1861 His widow, the mother of our subject, afterward married Daniel Aurand, and after living in Michigan for fifteen years returned to Jackson Township, this county, where she now resides. James C. Treece carried on the harness-making business in Mount Blanchard. this county, for three years (in 1871-73). He then went to the Northwestern Ohio Normal School, at Ada, Ohio, where he attended in all five years, and on returning he engaged in teaching, a profession he has since followed in Delaware Township, this county, and in Wyandot County, Ohio. During this time he taught for eight years continuously in his home district, and made a fine record as a faithful and efficient educator. He was elected justice of the peace in 1884, and was appointed postmaster of Mount Blanchard, under President Cleveland, April 23, 1885. Mr. Treece is uniformly polite and courteous, and discharges his duties to the satisfacfaction of the public. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.

JOHN G. WILSON, farmer, P. O. Forest, Hardin County, was born November 28, 1829, in Medina County, Ohio. His parents, Rol)ert and Betsey E. Wilson, settled in Delaware Township, this county, in April, 1835, after having spent the winter in Hardin County, Ohio, and here they went into the woods and began clearing up and developing a farm. Robert W^ilson died in February, 1850, and his widow in February, 1867. John G. Wilson, the subject of this sketch, was reared on his father's farm, and received his education in the schools of the home district . He married Miss Mary Ann Higgins, October 16, 1854, and then settled in Delaware Township, this county. They have acquired, by their own industry and good management, a fine farm of 400 acres of land, with excellent buildings and other improvements. Their children are Mrs. Amanda E. Spencer, Mrs. Harriet K. Porter, Mrs. Mary Ann McElrie, Alva M., Mrs. Maggie Cooper, Mrs. Martha Jane Smith, William H. and Effie B. Mr. Wilson is a Republican in politics; has served two terms as township tnistee. He is a leading and representative citizen of Delaware Township, this county.