German Township (part 2 of 3)

The sash, door and blind factory of Holcomb Snyder was begun by him in He employs six or eight hands, is a first-class mechanic, and enjoys an oifiive patronage.

The Legal Proeession

John Kelso, who came to Germantowm in 1828, was the first of Black Ci'a disciples who located in this town. In connection with his practice, he

Augustus Schwartz, George Howe, Jacob Emminger, Jacob Koehne, Samuel Ihrer, Lewis Schenek, Lewis Hasselman, Albert Stein, Elias Ligget. These we all worthy and highly influential men, who, by the part which they have ,, ed, exerted influences which will not soon die. They have aided in giving section to the affairs and in shaping the character of the people who at pisent reside in this township, and for that reason their names deserve a place he pages of its history. To the above list might have been added the names opther men equally worthy of mention, some of whom are still living, but the wit of space compels us to close the list by saying that all are men who do lor to the pioneer fathers of the Twin Valley.

Statistics Of The Year 1881

According to the last official census, the population of Germantown is 1,- !; of Sunsbury, 185; and of the township outside the corporate limits, 1,698, -mantown has four public buildings, valued at $20,000; four churches, at - ,150; and a public school building, at $8,500. The township outside the n contains twelve public schoolhouses, valued at $13,671. and three irches, at $1,300. There are 24,132 acres of land in German Township, ;ied at $204,703. The above valuations are those of the Assessor, and are (jsiderably below their real value.

By K. F. Warner

_L Commissioners, November 6, 1804, and elections were ordered to be h( at the house of David Hoover. On the 7th of March, 1809, a portion of Rs dolph was taken in the formation of Madison Township, and, October 7, 18 all of Randolph, lying east of Stillwater River, was used in the erection Butler Township. Thus the township remained until June 8, 1825, at win time all of its territory, in the original surveyed Township 6, Range 4 ea was erected into a new township, called Clay, since which time no changes h; been made in the boundaries. Randolph Township is situated in the north* part of the county with the township of Butler on the east, and Clay on i west; Madison Township forms its southern boundary, while Miami Com forms its northern one. It is six miles long, from north to south, and, on average, about four and a half miles wide, from east to west, containing abc twenty-six square miles. The surface is undulating and the drainage amp Stillwater River draining it on the east and Baker's Creek on the north, I latter emptying into Stillwater near the county line. The central part of township is drained by Bowman's Creek, which empties into Wolf Creek, Madison Township, while the western and southwestern portions are drain! by Little Wolf Creek and its tributaries. These creeks and small streams all fed by never-failing fresh-water springs. Near Union are a large numlj of springs, which are noted far and near for the beautiful, clear, fresh, p> water, that has proven a blessing to all who reside in that locality.

These springs nearly all unite in a branch near Union and form ( branch which affords excellent water-power, but at present is not utiliz Yet, the day is not far distant when capitalists will have control of said wal power and the hum of machinery will again be heard in the vicinity of Unii as it used to be in the past.

There are other springs dotted all over the township; the largest is owr by H. W. Morehead, near the center of the township. The most noted spr is near Salem, in the western part of the township, known as the Rattlesn Spring, and took its name from the great number of those reptiles lurking its vicinity in the early history of the township.

Mr. John Bench killed at one time, on the same day, thirty-three mom rattlesnakes, and was compelled to leave his task unfinished on account of strong odor emitted by the dead and living reptiles near him.

There are nearly one hundred living springs of fresh water in the to' ship, no doubt being the banner township of the county in this particu There are steep bluffs on Baker's Creek, Wolf Creek and Stillwater Rh The soil is very fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats, flax, rye, potatoes and1 kinds of fruit, from the apple to the finest variety of small fruit. The to ship was heavily timbered before the primeval forest was disturbed by husbandman's ax.

The writer of this article has before him a letter written by Capt. Mas a relative of his in North Carolina, from which the following quotations taken: _ !j

/He world, from the one inch to the six-foot oak, ash, poplar, walnut, hickory, . air- tree, maple, beech, buckeye, elm, dogwood, ironwood, spice and nettles." The giant oak and the other timber mentioned above have nearly all sueubed to the axman's stroke. There is not timber enough left now to refence rebuild, should such a thing ever become necessary. The same letter i s the following description of the animals and reptiles, when he, with his tier, landed on Stillwater: "Snakes, wolves panthers, wild-cats, muskrats,

The township now has an enterprising community of intelligent farmers L own splendid farms, have them under a high state of cultivation and farm all th« modern improvements applied to the science of agriculture. It is uig the foremost townships in the Miami Valley, in raising wheat, in its 1 to the acre.

The stone quarries are a notable feature of its products. The quarry \ -d by Mr. David Shaw, near Union, belongs to the Niagara formation, and ids an excellent material for building purposes of all descriptions.

Mr, John Stolts, in the north part of the township, has an exceedingly X quarry, also of the Niagara formation, and sells large quantities of stone >rvery variety of purposes to which stone can be applied.

There are other quarries, but not yet developed to the same extent as those (Do mentioned. Mi'. H. M. Turner has opened a quarry near Salem, of the a formation as the others, and, from appearances or indications, stone <ui be obtained equal to the best of the "Dayton stone," which is noted as i of a superior quality all over Southwestern Ohio.

The First Settlement

The writer will again quote Capt. Mast's language: " On the 10th of Sep- '[ er, as I well remember (I was three years old the 20th of the next Noer), my father, with four of his sisters and their husbands, bid adieu to 1 orth Carolina, in company with one or two more families. They resided mdolph County, on the Hewary River. They were all in low circumn s; had money enough to make their entries, and to buy some provisions vg the winter. They halted for winter quarters at what is now called eville, eight miles north of Lebanon; rented a log cabin of Luther and I n Ball, old bachelors, near neighbors to George Harlan, who was soon >f||nted Judge; was so called for years, or until he died. Our Carolina i>5s, or families, left Ridgeville vicinity on the 4th day of March. 1802.

I proceeded to the Stillwater woods, where they had previously made their ' 1 ions, and on my father's purchase the first house or cabin was raised or luch was the language of Capt. Mast, who was well known to the writer, 'Oho was a little boy of five or six years of age when the first settlement -nade. Capt. Mast died, in West Milton. Miami County, in 1878, aged - y-one years.

To those who know nothing about pioneer life, the following extract from 4 Mast's diary is taken to show the patriotism of the early or first settlers t) township, when they celebrated our natal day:

' This being the birthday of our freedom, God be thanked, on the 4th y*f July, 1806, I, with my mother, father, four of his sisters and his ro!9rs-in-law, had a 4th of July celebration. For dinner, we had plenty of

The writer visited Mi's. Mary Sheets, whose maiden name was IIooi She corroborates the statement of Capt. Mast's diary, concerning the yeai the first settlement, and makes this statement: David Mast, Daniel Hoo her father, David Hoover, and Daniel Hoover, her cousin, with their f ami 1 on the 20th day of March, 1802, landed on their respective purchases and c menced erecting cabins immediately. David Mast settled on the northv quarter of Section 3, Daniel Hoover. Sr., on the southeast quarter of Seel 10, David Hoover on the northeast quarter of Section 10, and Da Hoover, Jr., on the northwest quarter of Section 10. They had to cut a r from Dayton north, through the wilderness, as they moved on their tries of land, which were purchased in 1798. In that year, several ger men came from North Carolina and explored the Stillwater bottoms as as to where Covington now stands. They encountered no Indians on t, trip, but the old lady recollects that a short time after they had pitched t tents, an Indian made her appearance at her father's camp. Her father mother were both absent. She was not frightened, but her younger sister very much frightened and sought her parents immediately, and told them there was a man in the camp. The Indians were numerous then but never lested the settlers of this township, although as settlers arrived and rumor Indian depredations were being committed, there were block-house3 built the neighbors were collected in them at night for mutual protection agr the Indians, but every morning the settlers would disperse to their respec clearings.

Robert and James Ewing, John and Abraham McClintock came from 1 t.ucky in 1805. David, William and Martin Sheets came from North Caro in 1806. About this time settlements sprang up in every part of the town? Jacob Smith settled on the northeast quarter of Section 19; David Kinse; the northwest quarter of Section 32; Daniel Fetters settled on the north of Section 29; Peter Fette s on Section 21, both in 1806. The Ellers Fouts came about the same year. In the year 1811, there was a heavy emi tion from Pennsylvania. The Rasors, Warners and Brumbaughs, with otl came and all of them opened clearings for themselves. Jacob Brumbaugh Samuel Brumbaugh are yet living. The fii'st child born was Daniel Hoove; 1803, and is now living on the farm where he was born.

The educational facilities for the youth of the land were meager 1805, the first schoolhouse was built, north of Union, and James Wright employed to teach the children. Schools were kept up by subscription, A Edwards was the second teacher, near Salem, in 1807. William Smith living, was one of his pupils. The ordinance of 1787 made provision for schools in the Northwest Territory, and the people of this township, as soc practicable, made use of the fund from Section 16.

When the present beneficent school law was passed, to have six mo) school in each subdistrict, the people took advantage of it immediately, j have complied with its provisions ever since. The schools are admirably advantageously kept for the benefit of our youth. The teachers employe1 able and competent, keep up with the times and stand at the head of tne fession. The township is divided into nine subdistricts, having four' gr schools under the supervision of the Board of Education, and five school graded. Thirteen teachers are employed to carry on our schools.

aitliing for many years in the early history of Union They made rifles for .e settlers for great distances around, and did a great deal of work for the dians. JVlr. Henry Sheets, who is still living and making rifles. I'emembers *11 when the Indians used to come to his father's shop for rifles.

The milling interest was attended to at an early date. The first 11 was constructed m 1808 by Daniel Hoover. In 1806, there was a mill lit in Salem by John Wertz, and rebuilt, in 1820, by John Bench, and lately med by James Heck. It burned down on the 20th of December, 1880. miel Easor built a mill in an early day near Union. Two more mills ire built near the same place, and later still, William and Andrew Sheets lilt a large and commodious mill on Stillwater. At present, it is owned by idrew Hoover. Benjamin Engle owns a mill on Stillwater, near the south - <st corner of the township. Flour used to be an important staple for export.

There are only two mills in operation at this time, both on Stillwater, and ither one is doing anything at shipping flour out of the county, having only : ocal trade.

Saw-mills were erected at an early date - one on Baker's Creek, owned by bury Baker at this time, has been in successful operation for about sixty-five )ars. It was built by John Baker, father of the present owner. Martin Sleets built one near Union about the same time, but it has not been used for ; jut thirty years. There were several saw- mills on Wolf Creek, but have long s ee been discontinued. There is one portable saw-mill at Salem, owned by .rner & Hubley, and one at Union, owned by David Shaw. Moses Spiller i ns one and moves anywhere to suit customers. Jacob lams, at Harrisburg, uo owns a stationary saw mill.

The distilling industry received attention at an early day. Benjamin hman built the first distillery, but when, it is not definitely known. H. M. rner, Jacob Heck and Joseph Turner operated a distillery at Salem for sev- .1 years. Mr. Heck sold his interest to Turner & Bros, about 1846, and, in >47, Turner & Bros, built a large distillery at Salem, which burnt down in 7)4, but was rebuilt the same year, by H. M. Turner and Joseph M. Turner, seph M. Turner sold his interest to H. M. Turner shortly afterward, and the tsiness was continued by H. M. Turner until 1877. Mauy thousand barrels high- wines were shipped from the Salem distillery during its operation by I M. Turner. The last run was made in February. 1877. There is no likeood that there will ever be another gallon manufactured in the township.

William Sheets had a distillery for many years near Union. So, also, had J T. Smith & Son. John W. Turner built a distillery near where Engle's Cl now stands about 1850. but discontinued operating it when the duty on

There used to be a carding machine near Salem, owned by Michael 1 adis: also a woolen manufactory, near Union, owned by Jesse Yount. But t y aie things of the past.

G. W. Purcell and Dr. Hawkins, at Union, have a crockery ware and tile r tory. They carry on the business extensively, and manufacture everything h heir line.

The medical profession was not represented in the early history of the r< nship. People would doctor the sick with herbs and roots indigeous to the 8( In the winter of 1825 and 1826, an epidemic, supposed to have been ty- phoid fever, made its appearance in the township, and many persons died fc want of proper medical treatment. Dr. Powell, a farmer, appears among tl hrst as a physician; but has long since passed away. Dr. Martin, of Salem, the next who attended to the necessities of the sick and was an able physiciai He moved to Illinois in 1838, and is yet living. Drs. Hibbard and Gish wei very successful practitioners for many years. Dr. Hibbard went to Richmon many years ago; is practicing medicine yet. Dr. Gish went to Brookvilli where he resides, practices some, but is engaged mostly in farming.

Dr. Samuel Hawkins, of Union, was the next physician, coming aboi 1846. He is a man of ability, has a successful practice, a man of large e; perience and unsullied reputation, and stands at the head of the professioi Dr Thompson, his partner, is a young man, but has already gained a repati tion as a successful practitioner and a gentleman. Dr. Gillis practiced i Salem from 1858 to 1870 with marked success. Dr. Kimmel, now of Lfberb Jefferson Township, a gentleman of experience, was a practitioner in Salem fi several years, and met with great success. Drs. Levi and Samuel Spitler wei located in Salem from 1869 to about 1879. They were very successful in the practice; they had an extensive field to operate in while here; are gentlerw of ability and experience, self-made men; have extensive information on near all subjects that intei'est mankind; they now are partners in their profession Dayton.

There were other physicians here from time to time, whose names tl writer has forgotten. Dr. G. W. Hous, of Salem, came in 1878; has an e: tensive practice; a self-made man; has remarkably good success - a gentlems of experience and education. He is young yet, and is destined to make h mark in his profession. Dr. AV. C. Smith, who came to Salem in 1880. is young gentleman just starting in the profession; has competent requ iremen - a man of education, and has before him a bright career, and is successful ; his professional callings and services. Dr. Boone, of Harrisburg, is a genii j man of education and experience, and meets with good success in his practic which is extensive. This township is well supplied now with the M. D. pr fession. Dr. Hawkins, Dr. Thompson, Dr. Hous, Dr. W. C. Smith and D Boone are all competent in their profession to attend to the wants of the sic room. Dr. John W. Pence is a graduate of the regular profession, but has r tired from it, makes chronic cases a specialty and practices by animal raagrn ism,

Who organized a civil government is not known to us, as the townsk records are lost. David Hoover was the first Justice of the Peace; Danil Hoover was elected a member of the Legislature, in 1810, John W. Turner 1830, and Dr. Hibbard in 1846. The voting-place for many years was at Jaoj Smith's house in Section 19. Union then became the voting-place and i mained so for many years. About ten years ago, the Trustees saw fit to chan, the place to vote, and Harrisburg being more centrally located, is now the caj tal of the township. The present incumbents (1881) are E. D. Hublev, Lav Shaw and John Tucker, Trustees; Thomas P. Eby, Treasurer; E. E. Smil Clerk: J. R. Weddle and Isaac Fetters, Constables. Andrew Hoover ana F. Warner officiate as Justices of the Peace. The population is 2,330.

In the war of 1812, this township furnished its quota of soldiers, b there were no commissioned officers that lived within its borders. In the w with Mexico, it sent several soldiers to participate in the glories and honors that war. who were present when the army of occupation, under Gen . Sci entered the ''Halls of the Montezumas. ''

"There are bat few things that add more to the general comfort and con- , ience of a community than good roads, or an easy method of social and imercial intercommunication. "

There is no record when the first road was established, but at an early hi) a road was established running from Union to Dayton; also from Dayton Greenville, running through Salem; also from Salem to Union.

In 1838, the national road was cut out from east to west through the cene;r>f the township, but was never macadamized by the General Government. All be a completed turnpike this year.

"In 1838, the capitalists and business men of Dayton, seeing the imports of holding the rapidly increasing trade of the Stillwater Yallev, which :j had heretofore enjoyed, and foreseeing the danger of its being diverted points along the Miami Canal, then just completed to Piqua, organzied the )i ton & Covington Turnpike Company, secured the necessary stock and began : work of construction in 1839."

The road runs through the eastern part of the township for about seven Jjs, on the bluffs of Stillwater, and is of incalculable advantage to the people kg the road, who used to go many miles, especially farmers, with loads of rjn to reach the " Covington pike " going to Dayton. About 1847, the Salem upike was organized and a road built from Salem to intersect the Dayton & ktngton Turnpike at a distance of five miles from Salem. These two roads nsoll-pikes. In 1869, steps were taken to build a pike from Salem to Air li, and the next year it was built. The Dogleg pike, from Salem to Trotid, was built the same year. The Heckman pike was built shortly after. ..year the Skyles pike was completed. The National road pike was sold Wear and partly completed, and a branch road, running to Salem, built. 1 township has twelve miles of toll-pike and seventeen miles of free pike, b mud roads, as they are called, are well improved by the local authorities, <ing gravel hauled on them every year.

Every road running east and west but one is a turnpike - all feeders of ii Dayton & Covington Turnpike. Some of the roads running north and 'h are having a great deal of gravel hauled on them.

There are five bridges across Stillwater within the limits of the township, i near Hoover's mill, one east of Union, one at Harrisburg, one at Little 1 : and one at Engle's mill. All the creeks have good bridges across them, i-Ler on pike or mud roads. Most of the bridges were built by the County 1 missioners - all, in fact, but a very few small ones. There is a pike being ij from Salem to Brookville.

There was no railroad in this township until the Dayton, Covington & 1 do Narrow-Gauge Railroad Company built its road. The people took '4 interest in the road. The farmers donated the right of way to the com- The road passes from north to south across the township. Kinsey's ; on. Harrisburg, Union and Becker's Station are shipping-points on the Large quantities of produce are shipped from these points.

In 1879, the first railroad track reached the township, and was rapidly | down until it reached Covington. There is an outlet now south to Dayton north to Covington, Versailles, Delphos and Toledo.

Among the first settlers on Stillwater was a considerable of neighborhood L e Friends. A church organization and meeting was granted them by West L,ri Quarterly Meeting of Union Township, Miami Co., Ohio, and services were 's'leldin the summer of 1807. They erected a meeting-house called " Rocky

Spring." about three- fourths of a mile west of the Dayton & Covington Turn] on Section 36, where services were held for about twenty-five years, but nothi now remains to mark its site except a small neglected cemetery, which has been used for many years. Some of the early members of this organizat were Moses Kelley, Frederick Waymire, Benjamin Owen. William Earn with his sons William and John, Jonathan Justice, Benjamin and Isaac Coo} Jacob Wisener, David, William and Jonathan Cox, Nehemiah Thomas Ephraim Owen, most of whom were heads of families, who also belonged to faith of this worthy, peace-loving people.

German Baptists. - The Dunkers, or Dunkards, as they are commc called, were the next to organize a church inside of the present limits of R dolph Township. In the year 1800. Jacob Miller came from Flat Rock Vali Ya. . and settled on the west side of the Miami River, near Dayton, Ohio, was born in Pennsylvania in 1735; was a man of ability and labored earne for his church. He was much revered by the red sons of the forest, who e that he was " the good man the Great Spirit sent from the East." He rai a family of nine sons and three daughters, three of the former becoming s ministers in the Duulter Church. The earliest pioneer Dunker preache Randolph Township was Emanuel Flory, who, in 1810, organized a congn tion of his co-religionists. For many years, they had no house to worship and held service every alternate Sabbath at the dwelling-house of some on its members. Every member that was able to have meeting would take, hi her turn, "so to speak," in having the meeting at his or her residence, took about two years time, until it came back to the starting-point The <1 gregation were served refreshments by the individual at whose house the ml ing was held. All who wished to stay, after the meeting was adjourned, vf made welcome to partake of the hospitalities of the brother, who always b[! bountiful table.

They have two churches, one in Randolph Township, the other in 0 and are known as Stillwater, near Dayton, and Salem Congregations; 1; each a membership of 275. The former is presided over by the Rev. Abrallj Flory. Rev. Samuel Kinsey. Rev. John Smith and Rev. George Carver ; latter by Rev. Abraham Deitrich, of Miami County, Rev. Samuel Shellebar Rev. John Sollenbarger and Rev. Jesse Kinsey, " all gentlemen of ability refinement, and are doing good work in the advancement of Christianity enlightenment." The Dunkers are an agricultural people, quiet, inoffen and unostentatious, making no display in wearing apparel, and living st: temperate, industrious lives, taking little or no interest in Governmental afi and few of them, especially among the older members, casting a vote. A g many strictly opipiose a collegiate education, or even a higher education of masses, on religious grounds, and are, therefore, looked upon as out of barn: with the spirit of this age; yet they are model farmers, good neighbors honest and conscientious to a fault. They have three colleges in the Un States, under the control of the church - -one in Illinois, one in Pennsyivi and one in Ohio, where a higher education may be obtained and where stud| are welcomed regardless of creed, so long as they conform to the moral stain required and enforced in these institutions.

Methodist Church, - The Methodists had no organized society in this to ship until 1819. In that year an announcement was made, and the follow;; named members of that faith assembled at the house of the Rev. George I man and formed a class: Rev. George Hoffman. Jesse, William and John mer, Stephen Bender, Mr. Kennedy, John Waymire and Mr. Hollingswt They held their meetings at the house of the Rev. George Hoffman until 1 when the Concord Meeting-House was built, which yet ^retains that n< jioord Circuit was widely known and wielded great influence for good in its p.miest days. But its territorial limits are c rcu inscribed now by other de lunations, so that its influence is narrowed down in territorial jurisdiction. 1) congregation is as zealous in the cause of religion as it ever was and does at good. The first ministers were Rev. Jesse Stubbs and John Durbin. Its pit has been filled by the Rev. M. P. Gaddis, Thomas Gursuch, Daniel Dason, Raper, Tipton, Fiddler and many others. The Rev. Mr. Keek now ocijies the pulpit. It has a membership of about fifty at this writing. The sent meeting-house was built in 1849. There is a cemetery connected with 1 church. John Barnett donated one acre of land for the purpose. Jacob Vgoner was the first person buried there, in 1825. They had for many years a -ills at Salem, under the supervision of the same ministers that were at Con- 4 but have no organization there now. They also have a society at Union ,i a membership of about seventy-five. The organization was effected in 85, and a large and commodious meeting-house built. The Rev. Mr. Tipton u Rev. Mr. Hartley were the first ministers. There is a parsonage at Union, ore the ministers live who preach here and at Concord.

United Brethren. - The United Brethren Church organized a class at Salem i 869. The Rev. T. W. Bushong helped to bring about a permanent organics on, and was its first minister. The Revs. John Miller, George Gilbert, ttsinger and Samuel Holden have filled the pulpit. They worship in the ton Church, built for the accommodation of all denominations, who wish to it it for public worship. The United Brethren Church has the ascendency 03, having a membership of 115 at Salem.

Baptists. - The Baptists are well represented; they have an organization itlalem, and worship in the Union Church, and the Rev. Samuel Pence is its piitor.

Brethren in Christ. - The Brethren in Christ have three distinct branches ohe township; on what they differ, the writer could not ascertain, but each >nch has its own ministers, church officers and hold worship at different times, ft branch known as River Brethren is claimed originated in Upper Switzer - a'l, Europe, and were members of the Mennonite persuasion. In 1885, six ailies emigrated from Pennsylvania to Montgomery County, Ohio, and orized as a church. John and Daniel Coffman, Samuel Hen-, Sr,, and John iker, Sr., were ministers; Isaac Cassel wa3 Deacon until his death, in 1880. above-named ministers have all been gathered to their Fathers years ago. y have a neat and commodious church edifice, near the center of the townin. They are a plain an unassuming people. Their membership is about hty-five in the county. They are among the best citizens we have. Samuel 1 r, Jr., John Hocker, Jr., and Abraham Engle are the ministers; Adam Aker and Jacob Cassel are Deacons. Their meeting-house is called "Fairviy,"

Another branch of the Brethren in Christ has a church organization and interest in a meeting-house at Harrisburg. The church is locally known as 1 " Swankites." They have a large congregation at Harrisburg, presided over 'i he Rev. Jabez Swank. Another resident minister is Samuel Longnecker, ''"preached at Swanktown, Clay Township, There are congregations of the ! reh in Darke and Miami Counties and other portions of the State; also in knsylvania, Indiana and other States. The history "of this body" as it now «ts was formed by the uniting of several branches, which took rise near 'lit the same time, of which dates there is no account. A general conference ' called and convened in May, 1861, at Crooked Creek Church, Armstrong

County, Penn. The ministerial delegations were: From Ohio. Jacob Swai John Swank and David Rasor: from Pennsylvania, George Shoemaker Deford, H. G. Marsh and J. Shoemaker, with a number of lay dele^ati They adopted a constitution and appointed another general conference to me in Harrisburg, Montgomery Co., Ohio, in October, 1865. This body met pi suant to appointment at Harrisburg, Montgomery Co., Ohio, in Octobi 1865, and completed its organization. Of the ministers present who wore the former conference were Jacob Swank, John Swank, George Shoemaker a J. Shoemaker and a legal number of lay delegates, Brothers D. Rasor and G. Marsh having died in the meantime.

The other branch of the Brethren in Christ is locally known as " Won<u ites, " whose founder's name was the Rev. John Monger. They have, al; a large congregation at Harrisburg, and worship in the same meeting-hor that the Swankites do, but not at the same hour. They have three churches Clay Township, and have congregations at other places. The names of t ministers could not be ascertained. Why these three branches of the s'EU name at least do not unite, the writer could not ascertain.

There are other denominations represented, such as the Menists, Albrigk Universalists, Spiritualists, Free-Thinkers, etc., but have no organizations he: So we will close this article by saying nearly every creed can have members sympathy with it. All are welcome and every thing moves along smoothly wi religious people.

Secret Societies

Grace Lodge , No. 504 , I. O. O. F., was instituted November 23, 1871, Union. Its charter members are William A. "West, George Sinks, Sami Hawkins, George Lockert, John A. Hawkins, O. P. Waymire, Eli Wayrni: Austin Waymire, David Baker, E. W. McMurray, Alex Waymire. The office who first filled the chairs were: George Lockert, N. G. ; George Sinks, vr. ( Samuel Hawkins, Recording Secretary; Edward Eby, P. Secretary; Jae Stockslager, Treasurer. The present officers are : D. M. Flick, N. G. ; John Hawkins, V. G. ; Thomas Becker, Recording Secretary; W: A. West, P. Sec: tary; John S. Becker, Treasurer. Its membership is 100. It is in a flourit ing condition.

Randolph Encampment, No. 220, 1. 0. O. F., was instituted July 9, 18t at Union. The charter members are George Sinks, William A. West, D. Ska E. D. Kubley, J. E. Wanner, L. R. Pfoutz, David Skyles, W. E. Geist a WTlliam Flick. The officers are: E. D. Hubley, C. P. ; William Sherer, H. 1 D. Shaw, S. W. ; J. E. Winner, J. W. ; W. A. West, Scribe, and Thou Newman, Treasurer. The membership numbers thirty-three.

Salem was laid out in seventy-five lots, January 15, 1816, by John Leath man. Who built the first house cannot be ascertained. Its population, J 1880, was about 350. It has two stores, one blacksmith-shop, one wage] maker, one tin-shop, one cabinet-maker and undertaker, one grocery sto.

tee doctors, three boot and shoe shops, one saddler, one harness-maker, one Cj>per, three carpenters, four school-teachers, three butchers, one saw-mill, two sue and brick masons, two milliner stores, one flour exchange, one union c irch, one schoolhouse, one hotel, two painters, three millers and one ditcher. Te village at one time had a large trade; from about 1830 to 1865, there were a reat many goods sold yearly. H. R. Smith was the first merchant, but wheu h commenced business is not known. Michael Reouk sold goods in an early r. The merchants then succeeded each other about as follows: Kinsey & Biple, Redebaugh & Heck, Warren Estabrook came about fifty-five years ago. E cut up pork for several years extensively, and built a large storeroom in 1M; sold to H. M. Turner in 1846, and he also did a very large business un- 1860. He sold to Beachler & Heverling. Their successors were S. L. Herr, iters & Herr, Schaeffer & Baker, Baker & Young; then S. L. Herr again: in Herr & Smith, the present proprietors. David Swank started a store iljat 1846, and was succeeded by -Joseph Studybaker, William Hurley, S. G. dislich, Tobias Q. Landis, S. G. Masslick and J. H. Landis, the present lorietor. Warren Estabrook built the first hotel, and sold to Willaim -! imerset about 1847. Then David Borden kept it, George Geist, Samuel u lire, H. Teissel, John Vatter and Mrs. E. A. Stoker, the proprietress at pent. The blacksmiths were Messrs. Emerick, Edwards, James Cart-- gilt, John Nolan, Robert Turner, John Compton, Jacob Saylor, Fred ijiley, Hezekiah Hull and Jacob Saylor. The wagon-makers were Leoni' Billmyer, Samuel Smith, Jacob Rauch, William Bandon and Joseph kith. John Lizet is carrying on the business now. The cabinet busi- -8 and undertaking was carried on first by Augustus Haskins, William Gride, George Shell, Emanuel F. Warner, W. Schaeffer and W. H. Carl, 1 is now engaged in the business. The saddle and harness making was Led on by James Ivlepser and Steele Smith, who is yet in the business. A h Harris first manufactured boots and shoes on an extensive scale in early ns. He employed many hands and supplied the whole country. Among e mployes was Emanuel Schultz, the member elect to represent this Conviional district in the Forty-eighth Congress, who lives at Miamisburg. bother shoemakers were Morgan Stillwell, Gottlieb Wahl, G. M. Williams, 'A. Steele. Those who are now engaged in the business are Timothy utley, J. L. A. Smith. John Vicroy and Samuel Goodyear. The tinners Samuel Frantz, succeeded by Henry Beachler; Jonathan H. Kline is r ly engaged in the business at this time. Coopering was an extensive mess at one time. D. H. Wilson is the only cooper here. The tailors e T. F. Wieser and David Woodrow.

Union - Was laid out February 12, 1816, by Daniel Rasor and David o er. The first house built is yet standing. The village at this time has r stores, two blacksmith -shops, one wagon-maker and carriage shop, one mge trimmer, one cooper shop, two shoemaker shops, two grocery stores, v.entist, two doctors, one gunsmith, one tile factory, two butchers, one ho- church, one schoolhouse, two school-teachers, one preacher, one painter saw-mill. The Narrow Gauge Railroad runs through it, and its for- ^activity will very likely revive again. Thei'e are two large warehouses r | and is a grain market again, and new buildings are being erected every 11 There is no other village in the county that has better water-power a Union has, but it is not now utilized for any purpose. The I'ailroad will mbtedly bring capital and energy to the place and set machinery humming 1 a for it had extensive manufacturing interests at one time.

lr. Skinner was among the first merchants. D. K. Boyer, William and Anyw Sheets, Alfred Hoover and other merchants have done business in the place. J. Slockstager, John Sheets and John Young have stores now. T tailors were M. Bear, Jacob Dewey, Charles Cartwright and Jerry Skelli George Sinks and Mr. Hawthorne are carrying on blacksmithing. Theo Eby is a dentist and commands an extensive trade. A Mr. Protzman was t first hotel -keeper; the hotel business was good in early days: William Sto is the hotel proprietor now, and has been engaged in it for many years. Geoi Lockert is a wagon and carriage maker. W. A. West, carriage trimmer a painter. David Shaw and John Sheets are grain merchants. Pat O'Brien a cooper. Tennessee Flack is a brick-maker. Henry Sheets is a gunsmi Henry Beck and Lewis Reedy are shoemakers and have been here for ma year's. It has one huckster in the person of Jacob McCarter. Solomon He chelrode was a cabinet-maker; also John Wolf. Leicester Smith, in 18 carried on chair-making extensively. Samuel Young is a plasterer; Edw: McMurray, mason; George Stokes, carpenter.

Harrisburg - Was laid out by Mathias Gish and others May 6, 1841; also, was the first merchant. David Bowers, Tucker & Report, Silas Coble. Beard, Harvey lams, D. L. Tate, C. Donson and Lamen lams were its a chants in the past. James Vorhi.s, H. C. Weaver and Josiah Miller are p prietors of stores respectively. Mathias Gish built the first hotel. Jc Walker, Henry Frantz, F. O'Niel, Frank Lesh and Jeremiah Kopp were la lords in the past. Jacob Becker is proprietor of the hotel now. Mr. Lai was the first blacksmith, succeeded by Reese, Blackburn and Wallace. Jc Kopp. Christian Stuckhart and his son Lewis are having a shop at this tii Pierce Bryant has a shop too. Murray was its first wagon-maker. Oelest Lieber is carrying on the same business. Rasor & Liebert had a hub and sp factory atone time, but burnt out some years since and have not rebuilt. Ja lams runs a saw mill and planing-machine. Jacob Witwer was the first s die and harness manufacturer; Obediah Jackson bought his stock. Jost Rasor followed the same occupation until recently. Jacob Wey bright bui large warehouse on the railroad and handles a large amount of grain. Narrow Gauge Railroad has a station and telegraph office here, which ma it very convenient for the surrounding country. It has a church and a sell house. At Harrisburg lives the veteran car [ tenter and builder, Michael Lc necker, who has put up more buildings of a substantial character than any i in the township. It has a huckster in the person of A. G. Roof, who hat extensive trade.

Taylorsburg. - This is a small hamlet in the southern part of the to ship; was laid out many years ago by Adam Rodebaugh. The first mercl was John Wagner, followed by Philip Grove, Samuel Fetters, H. Weis: baugh, M. Kinsel, W. H. Conover and Henry W agner, who has a store i The first blacksmith was Fred Wolf. Reuben Saylor is now a disciple of can. John Zichnor was the first wagon-maker. Mr. Wagner has a good ti now in that line. The first shoemaker was John Wagner. Joseph Sam yet follows St. Crispin's occupation. Moses Spittler has a saw-mill. Will, Lutz is a huckster.

ination. His district consisted of the counties of Montgomery, Preble, Darke, Mercer, (Miami. Hamilton and Warren. In 1850, death summoned his daughter Drucilla to her last abode, and, in 1858, the same messenger called his wife to her eternal home. Rev. Antrim survived her several years, finally taking a trip to his native State to visit his friends ; while there was taken very ill and lived but a short time. The brittle thread of life was broken ; his labors on earth had ceased ; having fought the good fight of faith and finished his course, his spirit had entered into the joys of his Lord. His body was conveyed to Germantown, where it was interred, and there rests the body of a noble, just and esteemed citizen. His death occurred in the year I860, escaping the scenes of the late rebellion. Dr. J. J. Antrim, whose name heads this sketch, was born near Germantown, Ohio, October 26, 1823 ; having limited school privileges his early education was the same ; his summer months were devoted to farming, and the winter to his books. However, early in life his mind was directed to human and medical science, which he subsequently engaged in, being only eighteen years of age ; two years later, entered the medical college at Cincinnati, Ohio ; graduated in 1844, and entered upon the practice of his profession in New Paris, Preble Co., Ohio. Soon after, thought a trip through the Southern States would be a professional benefit; he prosecuted his thought, treating cancers and tumors. In May, 1846, when the United States was in strife with Mexico, he enlisted in the Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Col. G. W. Morgan ; was mustered on the non-commissioned staff of the regiment to the office of Hospital Steward. His services continued in this capacity two months, when upon a satisfactorily examination, he was promoted to Assistant Surgeon, and in rank that of Lieutenant, discharging his duties on the battle-field as well as in the hospital. He served until the close of the war, participating in the battles of Buena Vista, the siege jf Saralvo, Puebla and Rio Frio Pass.

Soon after his return, the California gold fever was raging, and he, with a company, ;raveled through by a private conveyance, completing the trip in seven months, travelng through an inhospitable country sparsely settled with an uncivilized race. His stay vas two years, when the unsettled and semi-civilized condition of the country caused fim to return. He came by the Isthmus of Panama, then known as the Ocean landing at New Orleans, thence up the river home. Subsequently, he took a ;rip to the metropolis of United States (New York City) and other Eastern cities ; reurned to Germantown and embarked in the mercantile pursuit. This demanded his mention two years, when he resumed the practice of medicine, in which he is still engaged. His marriage was celebrated January 20, 1853, with Miss Ellen, second laughter of Gabrael and Sarah Oblinger ; she was born June 24, 1832. The issue of his union were three children, vix., Ida S., Willard and Frank. Seventeen years of heir united life had elapsed when the dreaded disease, consumption, took her from earthly »res. She was an exemplary member of the United Brethren Church, having conlected herself with that denomination at an early age, remembering her Creator in the lays of her youth. Her death occurred December 8, 1870. With the cares of the doctor's children and the demands of his profession, he was married the second time, luly 18, 1872, to Mrs. Kate Clemmer, widow of the late David Clemmer. She was )orn in Adams County, Penn., in 1828, and in 1834, moved with her 'parents to Montrovery County. At the age of seventeen, united herself with the Methodist Episcopal dhurch. She was a thoroughly devoted Christian, as was proven in her life and conluct, that religion was not merely a system of ethics and doctrinal truths, but a living jrincipal, hidden in the soul as the leaven is in the meal. After the death of her first msband, she returned to the home of her parents, and owing to the inconvenience of he Methodist Episcopal Church, she united herself with the Evangelical Lutheran dhurch. From the time of her last marriage to her death, May 28, 1880, she was a esident of Germantown. She merited and received the esteem and love of all who mew her. She was a faithful wife, a good neighbor and constant friend, hospitable and ready to help the poor and needy. She was a sixter of D. E. McSherry, of Dayon', Ohio, the patentee of the McSherry Grain Drill.

Biographical Sketches

SIMON AUCHENBOCH, feed stable, Germantown, was born in Lebanon County, Penn., March 31, 1814, of parents, Peter and Catharine (Neth) Auchenboch, who died, the father in 1844 and the mother in 1837. He was married to Sarah Palluth. daughter of Casper and Polly (Spots) Palluth, in the State of Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio June 22, 1842. Mrs. Palluth was born in Pennsylvania March 22, 1813. The subject and wife have had born to them children, viz., Eliza (deceased), Louisa, Sarah, Mary, William, Rosannah (deceased) and Fradanna (deceased). Mr. aud Mrs. Aucheuboch are members of the United Brethren Church, and are exerting their influence for good. The former, by trade, is a shoemaker, which occupation he followed for about thirty -five years. He is a good citizen and commands the respect of the community at large.

CHARLES H. L. AXMAN (deceased), was a native of Germany, born May 6, 1822. In early life, he learned the trade of watchmaking and jeweler, but soon after the completion of his trade, in 1848, he emigrated to America, and on May 8, 1850, married in New York City, Elvina Droz, a native of France, born December 27, 1830, and became a resident of the United States in her minority. Soon after their marriage, they settled in Germantown, Montgomery Couuty, Ohio, where Mr. Axman set up in business and conducted it through life, taking in his sons, who are now four in number. He died on February 26, 1873, trusting in the doctrines of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and was beloved by all who knew him. His wife still survives, bearing the name of her departed husband, and the mother of ten children, of whom six survive, viz. : Minnie, Clara, Charles A.; who is working, in Dayton, at the jeweler business ; Adolph 0., in the same pursuit; and Alfred E. and Lewis H., who are yet at home assisting their mother in conducting the jewelry business. Mrs. Axman has been for years a member of the same church as that of her husband.

ALFRED E. AXMAN, Germantown, was born in Germantown, Ohio, December 8, 1860, and is a son of Charles H. L. Axman, whose history will be found in this work. Alfred E. grew up in his native town, where he was also educated, learning the jewelry trade under the supervision of his eldest brother, Arthur C., in their own store, of which he now has charge. He is an intelligent young man, well respected, a member of the Lutheran Church, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity.

THOMAS BAILEY, retired farmer, Germantown. His grandparents, Thomas and Mary (Crittenden) Bailey, natives of Virginia, came to Warren County, Ohio, at an early day, where they spent their lives. His parents were William and Sarah (Rison) Bailey, also from Virginia, who had a family of six children - three sons and three daughters - viz.: Thomas, Francis, William, Maria, Elizabeth and Nancy. The subject of this sketch was born in Warren County, Ohio, July 29, 1810, and in 1819 his mother died, thus leaving him at a tender age without her loving counsel. On December 6, 1832, he married Ann Denice, daughter of Samuel and Jane (Bound) Denice, born in New Jersey, September 27, 1815, of which union eleven children were born, as' follows : William, Abraham C., Sarah Jane, Sidney D., Samuel F,, Anna Maria, Mary E., George P., Helanor C., Rachel and one died in infancy. Mr. Bailey followed milling for about twenty-oue years, and in 1847 located on a farm in German Township; purchased 170 acres of land in 1853, upon which he resided until 1866, when he moved to Germantown, where he has since lived, owning a residence and two acres of ground on Main street. His farm lays four miles west of town, on the State road. His five living children are all residing in this vicinity, and worthy members of society, whose ancestors have done their part toward the civilization of this portion of the Buckeye State. Mr. Bailey and family belong to the United Brethren Church. I

W. P. BEARD, farmer, P. O. Germantown. Our subject was born near Ger-i mantown, Ohio, August 14, 1821, and is the son of Jacob and Sarah (Catrow) Beard, natives, the former of Lancaster County, Penn., born in 1777, and the mother of Maryland, born in 1803. The father settled near Germantown, Ohio, in 1811, and died in 1862. Mr. Beard was united in marriage, February 17, 1848, to Susannah, daughter of Jacob Heffner, of Maryland, and is the father of five children, as follows: Oliver

William Roof, living at Carlisle Station, in Warren County ; Sabina, is at home ; Hiram, married Lucinda Robbins, and is residing near Troy, Ohio. In politics, our subject is a Democrat. He received a fair education, which was obtained in German Township ; is a man in comfortable circumstances, and a good citizen.

STEPHEN BENNETT, farmer, P. 0. Carlisle, is a native of Somersetshire, Eng., born June 24. 1852, and emigrated to America June 28, 1872, settling in Montgomery County. He was married to Mary E., daughter of Tobias and Mary (Bradbury) Swartzel, born in Ohio July 21, 1850, on the 17th of February, 1873, and to them were born the following-named children : Cora E., Lotta 0. and Pearl M. Mr. Bennett, though quite a young man, has, through industry and economy, become the possessor of a farm of fifty-one acres of land, situated on the Carlisle and Germantown pike, two and a quarter miles southeast of the latter town. The farm is well improved, and the buildings thereon new, the house and barn being built some six years ago, at a cost, the former of $1,850, and the latter $500. Tobacco raising is with him a specialty. He takes great pride in the choice lot of fowls about the farm, raising and dealing in best breed.

ALFRED BOSE, cigar manufacturer, Germantown, is a son of George Bose, who was born in German Township, Montgomery County, Ohio, January 8, 1808, and who lost his father when quite small, thus leaving him to the care of a widowed mother whom he in his more matured years helped to support until her death. George was a farmer, and was married March 5, 1839, to Miss Mary Boyer, who was born in Frederick City, Md., April 11, 1808, of which marriage Alfred was born in this township September 13, 1845. He grew up and learned the trade of a cigar-maker, worked as a journeyman thirteen years, and in 1872 was elected President of the Cigar-Maker's Union. He served in the Germantown fire company eleven years, receiving a life-membership certificate for services rendered, and has represented the Etna Fire Insurance Company as agent. Being a man of experience in his trade, he was appointed foreman by Joseph Endress, of his packing room, getting the cigars ready for shipment, having at times many men under his charge. He also traveled on the road selling cigars, in all of which he displayed the same ability, energy and success. He finally accumulated enough money to start in business January 19, 1876, since which his trade has been increased yearly. In 1872, Mr. Bose became a Mason, and is a zealous member of that fraternity.

J. A. BROWN, physician, Germantown. His father, William Brown, was a native of New Jersey, who came to Ohio with his parents in an early day, and located at Waynesville, Warren County. He learned the carpenter trade, and soon after reaching manhood, went to Preble County, where he married Miss Mary A. Beall, whose father, Charles, was a soldier in the war of 1812. They had four children by this union, viz., Francis A., Joseph A., Laura, the wife of Dr. Low, of Connersvilie, Ind., and Minnie. William Brown was quite successful in life, accumulated considerable property; was a Quaker in religious belief, and died in February, 1860, leaving a widow, who died January 24, 1882, and who was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The subject of this sketch was born near Camden, Preble County, Ohio, January 19, 1855 ; had all the advantages of a good schooling, and at the age of eighteen began the study of medicine under Dr. W. H. Low, from whose preceptorship :e entered the Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, from where he graduated in the '-lass of 1877 - 78, and immediately commenced the practice of his profession at Germanown, where he has since continued the art of healing. He was married, March 5, 1875, to Miss Louisa Singer, daughter of Solomon Singer, who was born in Lewis- )urg, Preble County, Ohio, September 5, 1856, and has had one daughter, Edna. Dr. drown is a member of the Montgomery County Medical Society, and being a well-read, tudious physican, his future is promising, and presages success in his profession.

PETER BUZZARD, farmer, P. O. Germantown, was born in Frederick County, Id., June 11, 1817, his parents, Samuel and Mary (Dellwater) Buzzard, coming to Ohio loon after his birth, where his father died in 1866, and his mother in 1873. Peter /as married in 1838, to Elizabeth Emerick, a native of this county, born June 5,

1818, her parents being from Pennsylvania, of which union eight children were the issue, as follows: Wesley, Allen, Samuel L., Margaret E., Mary Ann, William J. Jacob E. and Annie A. Mr. Buzzard is a stone and brick mason, which trade he learned in his boyhood days, operated a threshing-machine for twenty five years, and has owned four of the best stable horses in Ohio, having at present a fine six-year-old three-quarters Clydesdale stallion. Mr. Buzzard owns a nice farm of seventy-two acres in Darke County, and a well-improved homestead, where he now resides, and is a man of public spirit and enterprise.

LEVI L. CLARK, retired farmer, P. O. Germantown, is a son of Thomas and Catherine (Lehman) Clark, both natives of Pennsylvania, the former born July 5, 1785, and the latter December 28,1791. Thomas was by occupation a farmer, and through life a resident of his native State. Their death occurred several years ago. and they were the parents of ten children, of whom four are now living, viz.: Lydia, Levi L., Thomas and Abraham. Mr. and Mrs. Clark were a noble couple, their charity was not vaunting and their love for their fellow-men was unbounded. Levi L., whose name heads this article, was born near Jonestown, Lebanon County, Penn , October 11, 1814. In early life his summers were devoted to farming, and his winter months to school, but his education, though limited, was mostly acquired through his own exertions. At the age of eighteen he commenced clerking, and was thus engaged for five successive years. At the age of twenty-three, he came to Germantown, Montgomery County, Ohio, and obtained a situation in the dry goods store of J. Crist, and on December 30, 1838, was united in marriage with Maria L., daughter of the late John D. Gunckle, of Montgomery County, born April 9, 1817. The fruits of this marriage are eleven children, viz.: John T., of Columbus, Neb.; Jefferson L., of Miamisburg ; George, of Colorado; William H., Frank G., Mary C. (now Mrs. Oblinger), Harriett E. (now Mrs. Keiner), Sarah J. (now Mrs. Trout), Ellen S., Alice V. and Maria B. Soon after the nuptials of Levi and Maria L. Clark, he located on his father-in-law's farm, took charge of it, and again became a tiller of the soil as in his youthful days. This, however, only commanded his attention a few years, when he embarked, unexperienced, in the coopering business, and repairing firearms, which two occupations combined proved quite remunerative. Several years later, he purchased a farm of 9 1 J acres, of Rev. J. L. Hoffman, situated on Little Twin Creek, where he located and remained until 1868, when he removed to his present beautiful location in the limits of the incorporation of Germantown. Mr. and Mrs. Clark's religious affiliations have been with the Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly half a century, during which time they have been constant and valuable contributors for its welfare and progress.

A. S. CONOVER, farmer and miller, P. 0. Germantown. The parents of our a subject emigrated to Ohio in 1811, who by name were William and Catharine (Sutphin) Conover. The former lived to be ninety-four years of age. Mr. A. S. Conover is a native of the State of New Jersey, born in 1808, and has been twice married, j1 His first wife was Maria, daughter of William Bailey, who died August 5, 1832. His second wife was Mrs. Margaret Ann Molson, daughter of Gilbert and Hannah Bound, natives of New Jersey, by whom he had six children, two boys and four girls, namely Edgar C., Orlander C., Hannah, Lydia, Ida and Deborah. By occupation Mr. Cono-j ver is a miller, which pursuit he followed from the time he was seventeen years of age, living between Franklin and Miamisburg, until 1860. He now owns a small farm one and a half miles northwest of Germantown.

HENRV C. COOK, farmer, P. O. Germantown, was born in Jackson Township, Montgomery County, Ohio, October 3, 1833; is the son of Frederick and Catherine ( Apple) Cook, natives of Ohio, but of German descent. Our subject was one of seven] children, six of whom are still living, and four of them are residents of Montgomervj County. He was married to Lucinda Oldfather May 12, 1864, and to them were born the following-named children : Ella R., Wealthy M., Herman V. and Gface. Ttu wife was born March 19, 1837, of parents Frederick and Elizabeth (Pence) Oldfather The former was a native of Virginia, and died iu 1876, and the latter of Maryland

Our subject received a fair education, having attended the schools of his neighborhood in youth, thence going for a period at Lebanon, where he attended the Southwestern Normal School, now known as the Normal University, where he prepared himself for teaching, and followed that profession from 1854 to 1875. He purchased the quarter section of land upon which he now resides, located four miles west of Germantown, in 1876, since which he has been farming.

JACOB CRIST, deceased, was born in Frederick City, Md., October 15, 1792 ; is a son of Henry and Christina (Cassel) Crist, and came to Ohio with his parents in 1805, where he grew to manhood. He was married October 15, 1850, to Anna E. Echart, daughter of John and Anna E. Echart, natives of Germany, who came to Ohio in 1844. Mrs. Crist was born in the Fatherland February 23, 1817, and has had six | children, viz.: Henry J., George L , Mary E., John P., Edward J. and Louisa C. Mr. Crist was one of the oldest citizens in the county, owned 130 acres of land a short distance southeast of Germantown and the family belonged to the United Brethren Church. Our subject died February 17, 1872, in his eightieth year, leaving behind a large circle of mourning friends and a wife and family much respected.

J. E. DONNELLAN, physician and surgeon, Germantown, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, October 7, 1824, and is the youngest in a family of ten children, seven sons and three daughters, three of whom are living. His parents emigrated from Baltimore, Md.,in 1812, and settled on a farm near Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio, where his father died in 1829, and in 1832 his mother removed to West Alexandria, Preble County, Ohio, where she resided until her death in 1853. At the age of eighteen, our subject having received a good education, began teaching school, which he continued during the winter season for several years, pursuing a private course of study in the summer months. In 1848, he began the study of medicine in the office of his brother, Dr. N. Donnellan, of West Alexandria, at the completion of which, in April, 1851, he entered upon the practice of his profession, at Farmersville, Montgomery County, Ohio, where he remained two years, diligently laying the foundation of future success. He occupied the same office with H. Elliott, Esq., who was then just commencing the practice of law, but who is now the Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. Dr. Donnellan removed to Germantown May 3, 1853, having formed a partnership with Dr. C. G. Espich, an old and popular physician, who had been a successful practitioner of medicine in this place from its earliest settlement, and this partnership continued until Dr. Espich's death, November 24, 1853. Dr. Donnellan was married, March 16, 1854, to Mary M. Hiestand, whose parents came from Lancaster County, Penn., to this county at an early day, of which union they have had two daughters, Emma (deceased) and Annie. The Doctor has taken a deep interest in the progress and development of Montgomery County. He has been for twelve years a member of the Board of Education in Germantown ; was one of the Directors of the Montgomery County Infirmary from 1860 to 1866; is a charter member of Germantown Lodge of R A. A. M., and was for several years its Master. Since 1851, Dr. Donnelly has been in constant practice, with the exception of four months in 1864, when he was a member rf the One Hundred and Thirty-second Regiment Ohio National Guards. He is a nernber of the I. 0. O. F., and the family adhere to the Reformed Church. Politically, he is a Republican. The Doctor stands among the most enterprising citizens of his township.

WILLIAM C. EMERICK, retired merchant, Sunsbury, one of the pioneers >f Montgomery County, emigrated to Ohio, coming with his parents, Christopher and Catharine (Kern) Emerick, natives of Pennsylvania, from that State in 1804. The oarents died, the father in 1837, and mother in 1836 ; was born in Berks County, Penn., June 29, 1794. In 1820, Mr. Emerick was united in marriage with Sarah, laughter of Daniel and Catharine (Shuey) Gunckle, who were also pioneers of this ficinity, emigrating from Pennsylvania in the year 1811. Both were natives of Dauphin County, Penn. The mother died in 1832, and the father in 1837. Sarah, the nfe of our subject, was born July 1, 1801, and became the mother of eleven children - Israel (born May 24, 1821), Catharine (born December 3, 1822), William D. (born

February 23, 1826), Levi (born May 1, 1828), Elizabeth (born September 25, 1830), Jacob (born October 17, 1832), David (born November 15, 1834), Harrison (born May 7, 1837), Daniel (born February 26, 1840), Mariah (born March 17, 1842), and Henry, born August 23, 1844; of whom six sons and one daughter are living, and all are married except one son. This pioneer couple are the grandparents of twentyeight, and great-grandparents of sixteen children. Mr. Emerick has followed a variety of vocations in life, having learned the shoemaker's trade and followed it some twenty years, then butchered a number of years, when he became a merchant, continuing in that line twenty years, from which he retired after a long period of active business life. In 1835, he was chosen a Justice of the Peace, in which capacity he acted for fifteen years. He also filled various other township offices, among which were School Director, Clerk and Trustee. Mr. Emerick has been a life-long member of the Lutheran Church, his wife adhering to the United Brethren denomination.

CHRISTIAN ESHELMAN, farmer, P. 0. Germantown, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., December 18, 1802, and is a son of John Eshelman, who died when our subject was a small boy. Christian grew to manhood in his native State, and,, in 1831, was married to Catharine Ebby, daughter of Christian Ebby, both natives of Pennsylvania. Of this union, two children were born, one of whom, John C., survives. In 1835, Mr. Eshelman came to Ohio, and, being a blacksmith by trade, followed that calling for about twenty-five years. His wife died, and, October 13, 1874, he married Mrs. Sarah Denner, widow of George Denner, and daughter of Christopher and Catharine (Kern) Emerick, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of German ! Township, tier father was born January 23, 1771, and died in January, 1837. Her mother was born January 30, 1772; married Christopher Emerick January 16, 1793, and died in February, 1836. Mrs. Eshelman was born in German Township January 12, 1811, and her entire life has been passed in this vicinity. His son, John C., was married to Ellen Stump, who has borne him two children; one now living ; he resides close to his father's farm, whose homestead is about two and a half miles south of Germantown, and the family belong to the Lutheran Church.

ADAM FRANK, attorney at law and Mayor of Germantown, was born in Germantown, Montgomery County, Ohio, July 2, 1831, and is a son of Matthew and Barbara (Loy) Frank. His father was a native of New York, who, in his boyhood j days, learned the shoemaking trade, subsequently emigrating to Ohio and settling at Germantown in an early day, where he continued working at his trade. A few years after coming to Ohio, he was married to Miss Barbara Loy, who bore him six children, j four of whom are now living. Matthew died in 1867, and his wife in 1877, both dying, as they had lived, faithful members of the U. B. Church, and respected by ail who knew them. Our subject received a good education, and graduated from the Germantown Academy. He learned the trade of a boot and shoemaker, and by industry and careful saving accumulated sufficient means to purchase a property which constitutes a comfortable home. He was married March 7, 1853, to Miss Nancy A. Lucas, a native of this county, born in 1830, of which union one daughter, Mary C., was the issue. Mrs. Frank, after a few brief years of married life, was borne to the grave. Mr. Frank was again married, in 1874, to Mrs. Yanda L. Stirewalt, widow of the Rev. Julius L. Stirewalt, who is a sincere member of the Lutheran Church, and who endeavors to set a good example to all with whom she comes in contact. Politically, Mr. Frank is a Republican, and, in 1865, was elected as a Justice of the Peace for German Township, having been elected in 1864 Mayor of Germantown, which position he now occupies. Subsequently, was chosen Township Clerk, and a member of tne Board of Education, in all of which he was noted for efficiency and integrity. About this time, his duties as a public servant and his ambition to understand more thoroughly) the laws of the land induced him to abandon his trade and turn his whole attention to reading law; was finally admitted to the bar in 1870, and has since practiced his profession. Mr. Frank has long been a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and has beenji Permanent Secretary of the I. O. O. F. in Germantown for twenty-four years. He is a man of shrewd business tact and sound judgment, and the fact of his being intrusted

JAMES HANKINSON, farmer and miller. The parents of this enterprising farmer were James and Sarah (Cheesman) Hankinson, natives of Monmouth County, N. J., born, respectively, November 14, 1787, and March 9, 1796, were there united in marriage, and subsequently came west, locating in Warren County, Ohio, and raised a family of seven children, the mother dying October 1, 1867, and the father April 5, 1879. The subject of this sketch was born in Warren County, Ohio, two miles southeast of Germantown, in 1828, was raised a farmer, and September 30, 1855, was married to Rachel B. Vandaveer, born near Franklin, Warren County, Ohio, January 23, 1835, and daughter of John and Hannah B. (Bound) Yandaveer, natives of Monmouth County, N. J., the former born in 1795, and his wife the following year. Mrs. Hankinson's parents were married in their native county, and had thirteen children, only two of whom are living. The father died February 5, 1873, and the mother July 25, 1876. Mr. Hankinson has a family of four children - John H., Sarah M. (the wife of John Wolf), James V. and George W. His early education was limited, but contact with the world has given him a knowledge of men and affairs that well fits him for his sphere in life. Beside farming, he was also engaged in operating a saw-mill and manufacturing broom handles, moving to his present location in 1868, where he continues the mill business in connection with the breeding of Poland-China hogs and fine poultry, in which lines he has won many premiums at the fairs during the past five years, and is the owner of a thoroughbred two-year-old colt, coming three, which he claims is one of the finest in Ohio Mr. Hankinson has made the Devonshire breed of cattle a specialty, believing thoroughly in progress and improvement in all things.

BENJAMIN B. HARLAN, teacher, Germantown, was born in Clinton County, Ohio, March 23, 1845, and is a son of David M. and Margaret Harlan, he a native of Kentucky and she of North Carolina, the former born in 1809, and the latter in 1815. The family are of Irish and Scotch extraction, and our subject's parents are residing in Lafayette County, Mo. Benjamin B. was educated at Lebanon, Ohio, and followed farming until twenty-two years of age, since which time he has been engaged in teaching ; has taught in Germantown six years, two of which he has been Superintendent of the school. In 1874, he married Margaret H. Bond, daughter of John E. and Elizabeth (Custis) Bond, all natives of Ohio ; her paternal grandfather, George Bond, was from Maryland, and Thomas Custis, the maternal grandfather, was a native of the " Old Dominion." Mrs. Harlan has had two children - George B. and Mary. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity and I. 0. 0. F., and as an educator has given general satisfaction.

MICHAEL HETZLER, retired farmer, P. 0. Germantown. His grandfather, George Hetzler, was a native of Germany, who emigrated to Pennsylvania, where was born George, the father of our subject, who there grew up and married Catherine Reem. Of this union, Michael was born July 2, 1802, and, in 1824, married Elizabeth Blinn, who bore him three children, and died in 1838. The following year, he married Margaret Ann Ellis, a native of Virginia, who had ten children, eight of whom are living, and all married, excepting one son. Mr. Hetzler owns 165 acres of land in German Township, joining Abraham's mill, but retired from farming in April, 1879, his wife having died May 16, 1877. He is a member of the United Brethren Church, and an honest Christian gentleman.

ISAAC HETZLER, farmer, P. O. Germantown. This gentleman's parents were Abraham and Salome (Crouse) Hetzler, natives of Pennsylvania, from whence they emigrated in 1811. Our subject was born in Montgomery County March 20, 1828, and was married to Mary Ann Geeting August 15, 1852. The wife's parents were Adam and Elizabeth (Leeser) Geeting. Father Geeting died in 1859, and the mother in 1864. Isaac Hetzler and wife have had born to them Salome C., Adam W, Lizzie, Eliza, Ella, Simon and Abraham L. Mr. Hetzler, since 1852 has resided on his farm of 115 acres, situated on the Germantown and Jacksonburg road.

gomery County, Ohio, born February 10, 1838, and son of Daniel and Maria (Gebhart) Hohn, he a native of Maryland, born in 1801, and his wife of Pennsylvania born in 1806, and daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Gebhart. Mr. Hohn's mother died in 1868, and his father in 1871. He was married in 1869, March 18 to Julia Ann Hibble, of Miami Township, whose parents reside in Miamisburg. Our subject has one brother, Lewis, who is living in Shelby County, Ohio, and one sister, Loretta, who resides in Miami Township, both being married and all respected people. He resides on the Carlisle and Germantown pike, about midway between those points.

L. H. HUBER, tanner, Germantown, is a native of Cambria County, Penn., horn at Johnstown October 31, 1813, and removed to Ohio with his parents at the age of six years, settling at Miamisburg. The parents were David and Susan Fluck, the latter dying at Van Wert, Ohio, when our subject was about ten years of age. He was one of eight children, all of whom are dead but two. December 2, 1838, he was united in marriage to Catharine Coler, born in England of parents Henry and Margaret Coler. and to them have been born the following children : John, David, Charles F., D. W. George W., Caroline, Margaret and Rachel. Mr. Huber has been occupied as a tanner since fourteen years of age, and he and family belong to the Lutheran Church.

WILLIAM INGRAM, farmer, P. 0. Germantown, was born March 10, 181?. Is a son of Archibald and Margery (Odan) Ingram, he a native of Ireland, and she of Scotland. Mr. Ingram came to Ohio in 1838, and in 1840 married Martha Kindig, daughter of Henry and Magdalena Kindig, natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Ingram was born October 22, 1818, and has had six children, two boys and four girls, viz.: John, Rebecca Ann, Michael H., F. FI., Mary J. and Sarah C. Mr. Ingram is engaged in raising tobacco and working on a farm ; resides on the Farmersville road, and the family adhere to the Lutheran Church.

JOHN F. KERN, banker, Germantown. His father, Frederick Kern, a native of Maryland, died when cur subject was quite young, and his mother married Jacob Beard, and soon after the family came to Ohio. John F. was born in Frederick City, Md., October 2, 1805, and grew to maturity working on his stepfather's farm, but upon reaching his twenty-first year, he inherited a farm and saw-mill property located near Franklin. Ohio, on the Big Miami River. Here he remained two years, when, his health failing, and thinking the locality did not agree with him, he disposed of his prop erty, and entered the dry goods store of Winter & Fisher, at Germantown. Aftor learning the business, he concluded to start for himself, and in 1835 he made a trip to Cincinnati on horseback, purchased a stock of dry goods, and, returning to Germantown, began business, which he continued for thirty-three years. In 1859, he was elected a Justice of the Peace, served the people faithfully, and was again tendered the oifice, but declined. He has been chosen several times to represent his township in che county conventions. During his mercantile career, he disposed of his business twice finally retiring from merchandising about 1867. He was one of the organizers of the First National Bank of Germantown, of which he has been President nineteen consecutive years. Mr. Kern served as President of the Germantown Board of Education eleven years, and since his majority has been a member of the Reformed Church, holding ofiicial position for many years in that body, and during his entire membership his 1 contributions have been constant and generous. Politically, he believes in principles rather than partyism, and in all the affairs of life he has been always desirous of doing good and of benefiting the community in which he has been so long a leading citizen.

SAMUEL LINDEMUTH, farmer and tobacco raiser, P. O. Germantown, was born October 30, 1833, in Montgomery County, Ohio, and is the son of Thomas and Maria (Tobias) Lindemuth, natives of the Keystone State, Berks County. The father was born in 1791, and came to Ohio in 1824, dying January 13, 1870. Our subject was united in marriage with Maria Stiver, daughter of John and Christina (Emerick) jj Stiver, natives of Berks County, Penn., September 3, 1857. Mrs. Christina Stiver is still living, being in her eighty-seventh year. Mr. Lindemuth, our subject, is residing on a farm of forty-odd acres, lying about one mile west of Germantown.

tember 25, 1824, and is a son of Robert and Mary (Crist) Moses, natives of the " Old Dominion," where his father was born in 1800 and his mother in 1802, coming to Montgomery County in 1823, where they spent their lives, Robert dying in January, 1875, and his wife in April, 1881. Our subject was married, August 19, 1847, to Mary Ann McKean, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Marsh) McKean, who bore him four children, one now living, viz., Charles R. Mrs. Moses died about 1855, and in 1857 he married Grace Rowe, who was born in 1822, to whom have been born five children; three now survive - Elizabeth, Grace and John. Mr. Moses is the owner of two hundred and sixty-seven acres of land, one hundred and seven in the home tract, one-half mile north of Germantown ; is a practical farmer, who displays good taste around his homestead, as well as being respected as a kind neighbor and worthy citizen.

REV\ PETER C. PRUGH, minister, Germantown. Among the early settlers of Montgomery County was John Prugh, a native of Carroll County, Md., born near the town of Westminster in 1795 ; there grew to manhood and married Catherine Haynes, who was born in 1791, of which union ten children were the issue, six of whom are now living, viz. : Jesse, Gideon G., Jacob H., Peter C., Thomas L. and Mrs. Samuel Fauver, of Dayton. In 1818, Mr. Prugh and family came to Ohio, locating on one hundred and sixty acres of land five miles south of Dayton, in the present township of Van Buren, upon which he and wife spent their lives, she dying in 1876 and he in 1879, being faithful members of the Reformed Church. Peter C. was born on the old homestead, September 13, 1822, and after receiving a knowledge of the common branches in the district school, he attended the Dayton Academy, where he prepared himself for a collegiate course. In 1844, he entered Marshall College, located at Mercersburg, Penn., and in due time graduated and received his diploma ; then entered the Theological Seminary of the Reformed Church, under the Professorship of Rev. J. W. Nevin, D. D., and Rev. Philip Schaff, D. D., where he completed his studies. He received a call from the Reformed Church of Xenia, Ohio, took charge of that and the Beaver Creek congregation, and remained there for twenty-five years. He was married, April 2, 1852, to Miss Charlotte Hassler, of Mercersburg, Penn., born April 11, 1828, and daughter of Jacob Hassler, who was a musician in the war of 1812. They have had eleven children, seven now living, viz. : Edwin N., John H., Daniel K., William S., Etta K., Mary A. and Frances Grace. During his sojourn in Xenia, our subject was instrumental in having the Soldiers' Orphans' Home located at that point and was appointed Chairman of the local committee to confer with the Committee of the Grand Army of the Republic at their first meeting, and $25,000 were raised in Greene County toward building the Home. When it was completed he became Chaplain and remained there two years, and in 1874 accepted a call from the Church of the Cross, located on the corner of Finley and Baymiller streets, Cincinnati, Ohio, where he remained three years; then came to Germantown, and now has charge of the Reformed Church at that point. Mr. Prugh resides on a farm of seventy acres one-half mile west of the town and is a man of upright Christian character, who is honored and respected by a large circle of Montgomery County's most worthy citizens. His son, John H., is Pastor of Grace Reformed Church, Pittsburgh, Penn.; is recognized as a man of superior ability, a scholar, a theologian and an orator, who, since taking charge of that church, has secured one of the largest Reformed congregations in that city.

SAMUEL REED, retired firmer, Germantown, was born in Berks, now Schuylkill Oouaty, Penn., on the 20th of September, 1796, and was married on his birth-day, in 1828, to Sarah Leinba'ch, who departed this life on the 10th of June, 1877. They vere the parents of four children, one only of whom came to the years of maturity, an jionored son, John Henry, who on the 6th of September, 1860, married Mattie Zeller, vhose parents were natives of this county. They were the parents of four children - dary Magdalene, Albert Eugene (deceased), Sarah Lulu and Charles S. John Henry ;?as a natural musician, and had considerable taste as an artist. He was, for a term or nore, Township Assessor and Clerk, and was for a number of years a dry goods merchant a Germantown. He died June 7, 1874, in the forty-fifth year of his age, leaving an interesting family to mourn his death. The subject of our sketch, Samuel Reed, came to Ohio in 1825, in company with William Hunsinger, on horseback, for the purpose of purchasing a homestead for his mother, in lieu of her dower in the old homestead in Pennsylvania. During this visit, he remembers seeing G-en. Lafayette in Cincinnati. He has two brothers yet living - Jeremiah, aged eighty-one, and Martin D., aged seventy-seven. Mr. Reed's father, John Reed, died in 1804, when Samuel was but eight years old. His mother, Mary M. Reed, subsequently married Abram Suyder, and died on the day Gen. Harrison was inaugurated President. The family emigrated to Ohio in 1833, coming in wagons, and consuming four weeks in the journey. They landed near Dayton in the month of June, and the following September came to German Town ship, where they have since lived. Prior to leaving Pennsylvania, Mr. Reed was entrusted to the settling up of various estates, and did some of the same kind of business in this country, amounting in the aggregate to several thousand dollars; He is the owner of 170 acres of land, and while too infirm to perform manual labor, yet at the advanced age of eighty-six years he superintends his farm with much of the agility of his younger years. He also superintends another farm of 150 acres. He learned the trade of paper-maker when a boy, and followed it for sixteen years; when he was apprenticed to his employer, he was discharged and sent home with instructions to put him to some other trade, but this his mother would not agree to, and he was sent to another man for three years, for the sum of $30 and six months' schooling. He has lived in German Township for more than forty-seven years, and is now enjoying the latter) years of his life with his widowed daughter-in law, Mrs. J. H. Reed, and is very happily) situated on the corner of Plum and Center streets. He has served as School Director for twenty-five years, and is closing up a long and useful life, and his meajory will bet cherished long after death by those of his church (German Reformed) and others who) knew his worth the best.

ELIZABETH ROHRER, widow, P. O. Germantown, daughter of Conrad anti Elizabeth Schultz, of Baltimore, Md., was born in that city January 25, 1806 Sh< was the sixth child of a family of nine children, and was educated at St. Joseph's Nun j siery, at Emmetsburg, and at Rooker's school in Baltimore, where she received a thor ough education, accompanied with high accomplishments. She descended from a lini of military men, her grandfather being a Colonel in the Revolutionary war, having been promoted from a private for gallantry; and her father, a native of France, par ticipated in the war of 1812, serving as an artilleryman. Much of her early life wa' passed in Washington City, and during the administration of Monroe and Adams, sh) was a welcome guest in the families of these illustrious men. During the war of 1812 Mrs. Rohrer witnessed the light arising from the burning of Washington. She cam West in company with her parents in 1825, on a visit, and was present at Middietow when Gov. Clinton, of New York, raised the first shovelful of earth in the digging c the Miami Canal. Our subject was united in marriage to Samuel Rohrer, March 3< 1826, and that year removed to Dayton, Ohio, where he embarked in the mercantil business. To this couple were born six children, four of whom are now living, namely Columbus, Charles S., Josephine and Ada Y. Mrs. Rohrer is a member of the R< formed Church, and her husband was an Elder in the same. She is a close Bible sti dent, and has ever walked in the line of holy men and women, having been a teacher in tli Colored Sabbath School of Baltimore, and organized the first Sunday school in Ge: mantown. She was also the first lady member of the American Bible Society in Mon gornery County. Her husband was born at Hagerstown, Md., in October, 1786, ac in 1817 accompanied Gen. Harper and Dr. Dideer to Europe, where he spent tv years in traveling, and then returned to his native State. As was said above, he can1 to Dayton the same year of his marriage, and the following year moved to Germantow and there builtabrewery and operated a distillery. The father of Mr. Rohrer was a m:1 of means, and in consequence, Samuel received a thorough education and became a m; of culture and refinement. He served as a Lieutenant under Capt. Bare, in the w of 1812. This couple were widely known for their hospitality, and their home w considered by the elite of the day as the center of refinement and high-bred cultui

At their residence have been entertained many distinguished persons, among whom were Gen. Harrison, when a candidate for the Presidency. Mr. Rohrer was a man of many virtues, was successful in business, and highly esteemed by his fellow-citizens. He died July 12, 1856.

CHRISTIAN ROHRER, retired distiller, Germantown. This well-known and prominent citizen was born in Lancaster County, Penn., December 2, 1804, and is a son of Christian and Anna Maria (Forrer) Rohrer, natives of the Keystone State, who were the parents of nine children, five of whom are now living, viz.: Elizabeth (now Mrs. Krider, of Pennsylvania), Catherine (now Mrs. Barr, of the same State), Christian, Samuel and Jacob. The father was a farmer, but soon after the war of 1812 began the manufacture of cotton goods. He was a man much respected, and died June 16, 1824, his widow surviving him until 1850. Our subject grew to manhood in his native State, receiving a good education, and upon attaining his majority inherited from his father's estate a farm and saw-mill property. Hearing of the many good business openings in the West, he made a trip to Ohio and Indiana. Returning to Pennsylvania, he disposed of his property, and in 1831 came to Montgomery County, purchased a flouring-mill from Andrew Hinkle, located one mile west of Germantown, 'which he operated until 1847, when he sold it to Gross & Brubaker. He then bought the John Risinger mill property, including 75 acres of land, rebuilt the distillery which was on the farmland embarked in the manufacture of highwines and liquors, making the first Bourbon whisky distilled in Montgomery County. Mr. Rohrer was married November 29, 1832, to Miss Margaret Emerick, born in this county March 8, (1813, and daughter of Christopher Emerick, one of Montgomery County's pioneers. Of this union five, children were born, viz.: Anna M. (now Mrs. Grubbs, of Germansown), Elizabeth (now Mrs. Kaucher, of Yankton, D. T.), Josephine (now Mrs. Byers, if Shelby ville, Ind.),' David and John. Mr. Rohrer is yet residing upon his farm, which he purchased thirty-five years ago, although retired from active business. He las been one of the most successful business men in the Miami Yalley, and his success |s a fitting illustration of what constant application and rigid industry can accomplish then coupled with sound business judgment. He is one of the charter members of the hrst National Bank of Germantown, has always been recognized as a useful member of ociety, ever taking a deep interest in all worthy public enterprises, as well as the progess, growth and development of the Miami Yalley.

DAYID ROHRER, distiller, Germantown, is a son of Christian and Margaret lohrer, and was born in German Township November 10, 1835, receiving his educaion in the school of his district until seventeen years old, when he entered his father's istillery, where he worked faithfully until twenty-two years of age, at which time his ither gave him an interest in this business. This partnership continued several years, 'hen it was dissolved by mutual consent, his father retiring and David remaining in ie business, renting the distillery from his father. Here our subject continued to do successful business, but, being a man of enterprise, he resolved to prosecute his call- )gon a larger scale, so purchasing thirty-one acres of land one and a half miles west of Gerlantown, he erected thereon a large distillery with a capacity of manufacturing thirty irrels of choice Bourbon whisky per day, which brands have acquired an enviable mutation from the Atlantic to the Pacific, having a market in many of the leading ties of the Union. He was married February 1, 1865, to Miss Ada Y. Rohrer, daughr of Samuel and Elizabeth Rohrer, a sketch of whom will be found in this work, fie was born in German Township April 18, 1840, and has had five children, four of hom are living - Josie, Ada V., Eugene and Albert. Mr. Rohrer is the owner of 400 p'es of land, besides his distillery, is a public-spirited, enterprising man, whose success as been marked by upright dealing in all the affairs of life, and who has won and tained the friendship of a large circle of Montgomery County's leading citizens.

JOSEPH W. SHANK, President of the First National Bank, Germantown, is a a of Adam Shank, who was born in Maryland in the year 1778. When at suitable pj he engaged in the blacksmith trade. This vocation commanded his attention in i.'edericktown for some time, but afterward he purchased a farm, and for a few years in his native State was a tiller of the soil. In 1836, he removed to Montgomery Count' Ohio, locating in Madison Township, where he purchased 240 acres of land. His mai riage was celebrated in his, as well as his wife's native State, prior to his removal t Ohio, her maiden name being Catherine Doup. The issue of their union was seve children, two daughters and five sons. By the time Adam had his farm in Montgomer County under good cultivation, time had bent his once strong and rugged frame, an death followed about 1856 in Germantown, where he located about 1850, both he an wife leaving the record of an upright, practical, useful and Christianlike life for imita tion. Joseph W., whose name heads this sketch, was born October 8, 1816. in th same State as his father. His education was obtained at subscription schools, and through his own exertions, laboring on his father's farm until 1838, when he, of hi own natural adaptability, commenced the coopering trade, which he conducted one yeai thence embarked for St. Louis, via Cincinnati, locating in St. Clair County, Hi. where he thought great advantages were offered to young men ; there engaged a:> ai inexperienced hand at the carpenter trade. Subsequently, became the owner of a horse which he rode to Hagerstown, Ind., and traded for town property. This he held thirty nine years, depreciating in value 25 per cent. ikbout 1840, he engaged to the con' tractor to assist in erecting the Third street river bridge across the Great Miami ai Dayton. Soon after the completion of the bridge, he formed a partnership with hif brother Samuel, who was a contractor and builder; while thus engaged, on March 16 1843, he married Mariah Bruner, who was then nineteen years of age, and a native o Montgomery County, Ohio. To this union were given ten children. Mr. Shank fol lowed carpentering until 1847, when he resumed the vocation of farming on his father' farm; subsequently became the owner of a fine farm, from where he removed to Ger mantown. He has been for years one of the Directors of the First National Bank o that place, of which he is now President. Mr. and Mrs. Shank have been for twenty-fiv years valuable members of the U. B. Church.

GEOKGE M. SMOCK, farmer, P. 0. Germantown, was born January 20 1812, and is a son of John G. and Polly (Vanmulander) Smock, natives of New Jer sey, the former of whom died March 18, 1854. Our subject was married, January 21 1843, to Christina Crist, daughter of Michael and Mary (Loy) Crist, he a native c Maryland and she of this county, the former dying, aged eighty-four, and his wil aged sixty-eight years. Mrs. Smock's paternal grandparents were Henry and Ohristin (Cassel) Crist, natives of Maryland, who came to Ohio in 1805 ; and her matern; grandparents, George P. and Nancy (Foster) Loy, were also early settlers of this Sfcati Her father, Michael Crist, was a blacksmith in Germantown, and he and his wife wei members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Smock is now residing in Germantown, is good citizen, kind neighbor and courteous gentleman.

DANIEL B. STAVEPt, farmer, P. O. Germantown, was born in Jefferso Township, Montgomery County, Ohio, in 1814, where he resided until his marriage 1 Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob Bickle (both of Pennsylvania), when he removed to tie man Township, of which he is still a resident. To them were born the followiu children: Christina, Daniel, Rebecca and William. The parents of our subject wei Frederick and Elizabeth (Nowel) Staver. Daniel and wife are members of the Ri formed Church. In politics, he is a Democrat. He is in comfortable circumstance possessing property in Germantown and a farm of eighty-four acres three miles nort west of that town.