Latty Township (part 2 of 3)

C. H. Cunningham, M. D., was born in Athens, Ohio, December 26, 1832, the son of Charles and Elizabeth (Harper) Cunningham. His early education was obtained in the common schools. He commenced the study of medicine under the direction of Dr. Simon Hyde, of Rushville, Fairfield county, Ohio, and graduated from the Eclectic medical institute of Cincinnati in 1876. He entered into the active practice of his profession in Jay county, Ind., and also practiced some in Randolph county some time before his graduation. In 1856 he came to Paulding and has since been in the active practice of his profession here. Dr. Cunningham has been successful in his profession and is considered one of the leading practitioners of his county. He has filled the office of coroner and was elected to the town council three terms. He is independent in his politics and belongs to the I. O. O. F. lodge of Paulding. In 1861, Dr. Cunningham enlisted in the Thirty-eight regiment of Ohio volunter infantry, was transferred to the hospital department and was discharged 1863 on account of disability. He was married in 1858 to Miss Martha Fisher, who died, leaving two children, namely, John M. (deceased), and Riley, a resident of Adams county, Iowa. The doctor is a member of the Theodore G. Merchant post, G. A. R., No. 683. At a business man he is keen, progressive and successful.

Daniel Davison, commissioner and farmer of Paulding, is a native of Ohio, born in Auglaize county, May 20, 1848. He is the eldest of five sons and four daughters born to John and Hulda (Elsworth) Davison, of Scotch and Welsh ancestry. Andrew Davison, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a native of Virginia and a farmer by occupation. He settled in Champaign county, and was one of the pioneer settlers. The great-grandfather, Josiah Davison, was also a Virginian. Daniel Elsworth, the maternal grandfather was a native of Rhode Island. He was a farmer by calling, and removed to Ohio, becoming one of the pioneers of that state. He died in the state of Illinois. Daniel Davison, the immediate subject of this notice, assisted his father to make a home in the forest and clear the land. He received but acommon school training, and early engaged in farming as a means of livelihood. In 1876 he located in Washington township, this county, and purchased eighty acres of land. He now owns 104 acres of good land, the fruit of his hard labor. Politically, he is an ardent supporter of the democratic party. In the fall of 1886, he was elected to the office of county commissioner, and reelected in 1889, so conducting himself in his official position as to give satisfaction, and gain the good will of all. He was serving during the erection of the court house, and his public spirit leads him to take an active part in all county improvements. Mr. Davison was happily wedded to Miss Melinda Sutton on the 29th of July, 1872, and they have had seven children, four of whom are living, namely: Hulda E., Daniel M., Mahaska and Lucinda. Mrs. Davison is the daughter of Isaiah and W. (Smith) Sutton, and a lady widely known in the township.

Benjamin Demond was born in Madison county, N. Y., June 15, 1842, where he resided with his parents until June, 1854, when with them he immigrated to Ohio and located at Royal Oak in Brownt ownship. On the 22nd of April, 1861, Mr. Demond enlisted as a member of company G, of the Fourteenth Ohio volunteer infantry under Capt. John Snook and after a campaign of three months, returned to his home in Paulding county. December 5, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Miller, of Carroll county, Ohio. He again entered the United States service as a me:nber of company C, Sixty-eighth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served in all the principal battles of the west until the fall of 1863, when he re-enlisted as a veteran volunteer and remained in the same company and regiment until the close of the war, when in 1865 he received his honorable discharge. Returning home, he took up the life of the pioneer, locating at Broughton, Ohio. He has served Jackson township in almost all of its offices, from justice of the peace to school director, and was one of the projectors and workers in planning and obtaining the special school district of Broughton and Hedges. He was active in the incorporation of Broughton, and was honored by being elected its first mayor in 1890. His family consisted of one son, Lawrence M., and two daughters, the youngest having died at the age of two years. The happy family circle was broken on the 31st of January, 1891, at which time Mrs. Demond was called by death to part with her family. The son and daughter are married and are making their homes in the town of their birth. Benjamin Demond, who is the deputy probate judge, is a man of sterling integrity, and his name is a synonym for honesty and uprightness.

John B. Dickman is a member of the firm of Nichols & Dickman, editors and proprietors of the Paulding Democrat, under whose management the paper is bound to succeed, as they are both practical newspaper men, full of energy and a disposition to please. Mr. Dickman is a native of Dayton, Ohio, and was born August 20, 1859, being the son of

Theodore and Mary (Weinmar) Dickman, natives respectively of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Wurtemberg, Germany. Our subject located at Minster, Auglaize county, Ohio, in childhood, with his parents, and there he remained until fourteen years of age, when his people located at Wapakoneta, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and received a fair education. At the age of sixteen years he entered the office of the Auglaize Democrat, where he served a four years' apprenticeship at the printer's trade. In 1880 he received an appointment as compositor in the government printing office at Washington, D. C., where he remained for ten years. In June, 1886, he represented the Columbia Typographical union, No. 101, at the international convention, at Pittsburg, of which, in 1888, he was elected president for one year. Mr. Dickman began hustling for himself at the age of twelve years and is practically a self-made man. In 1886, January 10, he was united in marriage with Miss Annie L. Ribnitzky, of Washington, D. C., daughter of J. H. and Mary Ribnitzky, |

Dr. P. A. Dix was born at Van Wert, Ohio, June 13, 1850. His father, Peres M. Dix, and mother, Lovina Dix, were among the first settlers of that county, having moved from Delaware county, Ohio, to Van Wert when there was only one house in that city, his father buying land two and to work to build up a home in the then wild west; they still own that farm, which, with its additions, it is one of the best in that county. In 1888 they moved to Van Wert city, where they now live in the enjoyment of good health. Both are now in their seventies. Dr. Dix was their second son, and his boyhood was passed upon his father's farm, which he assisted in cultivating in summer; in the winter he attended the country schools. He also worked at the printing business as a compositor, and taught school. In 1871 he bought a farm of eighty acres, three miles west of Van Wert, Ohio, and went to work on that. In the following year he married, and moved into a log cabin in the woods, and commenced to clear it up, keep his family and study medicine, working in day time and studying at night. After a few months, by advice of his preceptor, Dr. A. N. Krout, now deceased, he was advised to quit work, or studying, for a while; so he chose to study and oversee his farm. In 1871, having a good farm, well improved and buildings thereon, he rented them out and moved to Fort Wayne, Ind., to complete his study of medicine and surgery. In 1879 he removed to Paulding county, Ohio, locating at the village of Payne,and commenced the practice of his profession there; in 1880 he removed to Paulding, and besides practicing medicine and surgery, bought and laid out the two additions to the village known as Dix's first and second additions to Paulding, Ohio. The doctor has resided in Paulding county since the spring of 1879 until the 'present time, excepting about fifteen months' residence in Cincinnati, where he practiced as a specialist. The doctor is again permanently located at Paulding, where he will practice as a surgeon specialist, treating dropsy, cancer, tumors, catarrh, etc. The doctor will locate near the depot, where he may be easily found. The doctor has a family of five children, three boys and two girls. The eldest daughter is married and living in Winona, Minn. Dr. Dix has served three terms as coroner of Paulding county.

Andrew Egleson, who was born in county Tyrone, Ireland, April 15, 1824, is the son of Alexander and Nancy (Weare) Egleson. The father died on his way to America, and the mother, in company with her children, continued her journey, and settled in Coshocton county, Ohio, where the subject of this sketch was reared. At the age of twenty years he learned the trade of blacksmith, which he followed successfully for forty-three years. Mr. Egleson was married in Hancock county, Ohio, in 1858, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Sarah Pugh, and to them six children were born. The mother died in 1864, and Mr. Egleson was married a second time, Lucinda Baughman becoming his wife in 1865. 8. B. Egleson, the youngest son of Andrew and Elizabeth Egleson, dates his birth from the 6th day of N ovember, 1864. He was born in Van Wert county, and there his earlier life was spent upon the farm. He was educated in the common schools, and on the second of J uly, 1891, entered upon a business life, and engaged in handling flour, feed, hay and straw. He is a representative and energetic young man, highly respected in the community.

S. J. Evans, proprietor of the Paulding House and the Evans livery barn, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Bedford county, at Bainsburg, August 29, 1857, the son of David and Sarah R. Evans, of English parentage. David B. Evans was reared in Pennsylvania and was engaged in carpentering and contracting on the railroad. He married in early manhood, Miss Morgart, who bore him one son, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Evans, Sr., enlisted in the fall of 1863, and served for eighteen months in the quartermaster's department. His wife is now living with her son, and is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church. 8. J. Evans, the immediate subject of this mention, was given a good education, and at the age of thirteen years began the study of telegraphy at Hyndman, Pa. Before he was fourteen years of age, he was given an office on the B. & O. line, and was transferred from place to place, until in 1880 he located at Attica, Ohio. During his service as operator Mr. Evans was stationed at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, North Baltimore, Miller's Station, Ind., Defiance, Ohio, Fostoria, Chicago, Tiffin, Indianap- ! olis, St. Louis, Toledo, Marshall, Mich., Van Wert, Latty and Paulding, where he served for over two years as operator and express agent. At the end of this time he abandoned the railroad work and engaged in the grocery business. On the first of May, 1890, Mr. Evans took charge of the Paulding House, and at the same time purchased the livery stable. He has been successful in his business ventures, and is respected by the community at large. Mr. Evans is a democrat in his political belief. He was married May 27, 1886, to Miss Flora B., the daughter of Corydon and Charlotte (McCoy) McLaughlin, of Indianapolis, Ind., and their children are Edgar M., born May 3, 1887, and Elsie D., who died August 31, 1890, aged thirteen months. Mr. and Mrs. Evans are members of the Methoj dist Episcopal church, enjoy high social standing.

Jasper A. Fergerson, the genial agent of the Findlay brewing company, of Toledo, Ohio, is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Luzerne county in 1829, the son of Richard and Mary (Rice) Fergerson, the former a native of New York and the latter of New Jersey. Our subject, who was raised upon the farm, was engaged in the lumber business until 1854, when he went to Erie county and conducted a meat market at Milan for nine years. In 1863 he went to Defiance county and purchased cighty acres of land, forty of which he cleared, aud in 1866 sold. He then located in Antwerp, continuing the butcher business three years, and then took charge of the Bemhart house. He was elected sheriff of the county in 1869, and one year later removed to Paulding. He served two terms as sheriff, and then entered the livery business, which he continued at intervals until 1877, when he was again elected sheriff, filling the office for another term of two years. In 1880 he received an appointment in Washington, D. C., in the war department, and remained there for two years, subsequently returning to Paulding and continuing the livery business. In 1886 he took a lease of the Thompson house for three years. In 1890 he located in his present place and engaged in the saloon business, acting as agent for the Toledo brewing company. Mr. Fergerson has been actively engaged in the politics of the county and was the first democratic sheriff elected. He has served as constable and marshal of Autwerp, marshal of Paulding, and is at present serving on the school board. He was married, in 1856, to Miss Susan, the danghter of Avery Ellsworth, of Luzerne county. They have had four children, of whom, one, Henry Fergerson, is living. Mr. Fergerson is a member of the lodge, I. O. O. F., which he joined when he was twenty-one years of age. He was made a member of the Masonic lodge in 1854. He is one of the enterprising and progressive citizens of the township, always ready to further any plan which has for its object the good of the town and county.

Frederick W. French is the son of Andrew F. French and Charlotte B. (Harbaugh) French, the former a native of Ohio, and of English extraction, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. F, W. French was born in Paulding, Ohio, November 20, 1867. He received a common school education in his native town, and attended the Valparaiso (Ind.) business college, from which he graduated January 14, 1887. For some time he resided in Chicago, but on the 12th of February, 1891, in connection with J. R. Thomas, established the Paulding News. Mr. French's father died at his home in Paulding, March 18, 1886. His mother and his sisters, Ethel L. and Margery, still reside in this place. He was married on March 28, 1888, to Miss Mollie L. Primmer. Two children were born to them: Harry D. and Cecil S., both of whom are living. James R. Thomas is the son of Dr. I. H. and Minerva (Martin) Thomas, both natives of Ohio, the former being of Welsh and Irish, and the latter of German descent. The subject of this sketch, Jas. R. Thomas, was born in New Madison, Darke county, Ohio, December 29, 1870, and attended school in that county and in Paulding until about fifteen years of age, when he commenced to learn the printer's trade, in the office of the Paulding Democrat. On February 12, 1891, in connection with F. W. French, he established the Paulding News, a democratic paper, of which he is now the editor, and which is constantly gaining friends and patronage, by the impartial manner in which it has been conducted. Dr. Thomas died at his residence in Palestine, Darke county, Ohio. J. H. Thomas, Jr., is a brother of the subject of this sketch, and resides with his mother in this place.

Americus R. Geyer is a son of Amos and Emogene (Well) Geyer, born February 18, 1858, in Kalida, Putnam county, Ohio. He graduated in the common schools of Kalida, Ohio, in 1877, and then took a two-years' engineering and business course in the Northwestern Ohio normal school, situated at Kalida, Ohio, and commenced his profession as civil engineer in 1880. In 1883 he came to Paulding, Ohio, where he followed his profession in partnership with his brother, Hon. John L. Geyer, who is now serving his third term in the Ohio legislature, until February, 1890, when he purchased what is known as the Old Reliable Hakes Abstracts of Title, the only complete set in Paulding county, from which time he has followed the abstract and loan business, and is now in that business; no man is better known in Paulding county. He belongs to lodge No. 502, F. & A. M.; Defiance chapter, No. 89; Paulding lodge, No. 270, K. of P., and is a successful man. He was married, on May 6, 1886, to Maude E. Crawford, and two children (girls) have blessed this union: Velma D. Geyer, now four years old; Alta Marie Geyer, who died February 1, 1890.

Guy Gilbert, proprietor of the City Livery and Sale stable, of Paulding, Ohio, was born in Tompkins county, N. Y., April 13, 1846. He is the son of Lorenzo D. and Rosetta (McIntire) Gilbert, who were natives of York state, where they married in early life. Our subject remained in his native county until fifteen years of age, when he removed to Wayne county, Ohio, with his parents, where he grew to manhood. He received his education in the common schools. At the age of sixteen years he began an apprenticeship at the saddler's trade, which he followed continuously until 1879, when he located in Paulding county, where he followed farming successfully until December, 1888, when he engaged in the livery business in Paulding, and has, by giving undivided attention to business, made a success, never failing to please his patrons, for they always received good turnouts and kind, courteous treatment. He is a lover of of good horses and keeps on hand as fine drivers as northwestern Ohio affords. Mr. Gilbert is one of the progressive young men, always ready to assist in all public and benevolent enterprises. Fraternally he is a member of the I. O. O. F. In 1869 Mr. Gilbert was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Shoup, of Burbank, Wayne county, Ohio, which has resulted in the birth of three children, as follows: Charles E., George W. and Frank T. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are worthy citizens and highly esteemed wherever known.

George P. Hardy, an abstractor of Paulding, is a native of Ohio, and dates his birth from the 28th of June, 1853. He is the son of Henry and Mary (Platter) Hardy, who educated theirson in the common schools and reared him to manhood. He learned the trade of a printer and followed that business until 1875, purchasing, at this time, the Paulding Democrat. He edited this paper for five years and then engaged in the newspaper business in Indiana for some years. Returning to Paulding, Mr. Hardy engaged in his present occupation and has worked at it since. He was married, in 1878, to Miss Louisa L. Nash, of Allen county, and one son, Earl Hardy, has been born to them. Mr. Hardy is identified with the democratic party, and is member of Paulding lodge, No. 502, F. & A. M. He is aman who commands the respect of the community in which he lives.

A. Harper, a successful gardener and apiarist, was the first white child born in Black Creek township, Mercer county, Ohio. His birth occurred December 29, 1829, and he is the son of Jacob M. and Calinda (Watkins) Harper, natives of Pennsylvania and Kentucky respectively. His grandfather on the paternal side was a native of Pennsylvania and reared a large family. His grandfather Watkins was a native of Maryland, and a soldier the war of 1812. He was an early settler of Kentucky, but died in Van Wert county, Ohio, in the sixty-first year of his age. Jacob M. Harper, the father of the subject of this notice, was reared in his native state,and in early life came to Fort Wayne, where he worked at his trade of a stone and brick mason. Later he entered land in Mercer county, and became one of the pioneer settlers, enduring all the hardships of that trying period. He became a well-to-do man in his time and was a class leader in the Methodist church. Politically, he was a whig, and served as an associate judge in Van Wert county. His death occurred at the early age of forty-two years, and his wife, who still survives him, is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church. The boyhood of A. Harper was spent in Mercer and Van Wert counties, on the farm. He received a common education, and served a three years' apprenticeship at the wagon maker's trade. He worked as a journeyman for eighteen months, and later opened a shop in Bluffton, Ind., and thence in a year he moved to Mercer county, working in all twenty-six years at his trade. He had at that time become an expert in his line,and is a self-made man, In the spring of 1874 he moved to Paulding county and purchased a property in town, where he has since lived. He is a successful gardener, and is the largest bee grower in the county. Politically, Mr. Harper is a stanch republican, and has served some time as town councilman. Mr. Harper married, May 10, 1853, Miss Mary Ann Wilch, and is the father of these children: Willis B., Alden D., John A., Nelson E., Calinda Margaret, the wife of Charles Percy, and Lilla May. the wife of Charles Hudson. Mrs. Harper, who is an estimable lady, is a member of the Lutheran church, and her husband is a member of the lodge, I. O. O. F.

R. S. Harris, a popular grocer of Paulding, Ohio, was born in Rochester, N. Y., September 5, 1834, the son of C. S. and Ellen (Walton) Harris. He was educated in the public schools at Rochester, learned the carriage painter's trade, and made it a specialty for fifteen years in different parts of the country, then located in Cleveland, Ohio, and was in business there for several years. He came to Paulding, Paulding county, Ohio, September 1, 1883, and embarked in the mercantile business. Mr. Harris has so conducted himself and his business as to give satisfaction to his friends and gain the good will of all. He is a democrat and belongs to the Masonic fraternity and I. O. O. F. In 1885 Mr. Harris established his present business and he has been successful in this pursuit. He was married in 1878 to Miss Amanda M. Adkins, of Kentucky, and they enjoy high social rank and the esteem of the community in which they reside.

L. YY. Hebenthal was born in Manhaim, Germany, July 27,1838, the son of George and Maria Hebenthal. His early education was obtained in the public schools and at the age of twelve he entered the high school and completed a course in chemistry and medicine. Later he engaged in clerking and at the age of fifteen emigrated to America. He located at Toledo, Ohio, and followed various occupations until 1861, when he joined company K, Fourteenth Ohio volunteer infantry, with which he served three months. At the expiration of his term of service, he re-enlisted in company K, Sixty-seventh Ohio volunteer infantry, and again enlisted for a period of three years. He served faithfully until the close of the war, and was a participant in the following engagements: Philippi, Va., Carrick's Ford, Winchester, Stroudsburg, Va., Front Royal, Suffolk, Ya. and in the charge upon Ft. Wagner, S. C. Mr. Hebental was thrice wounded, first in the left leg by a bayonet; next in the left forearm and the last wound was received in the scalp by a shell. He was sent to the hospital at Beaufort, S. C., and from there was taken to Fort Schuyler, N. Y. Recovering from his wounds, he rejoined his regiment and was at the following battles, the Bermuda Hundred, Fort Darling, Deep Bottoms, Petersburg, Va., Ft. Harrison, Farmville, and Appomatox. At the close of the war, Mr. Hebenthal located at Maumee City, Ohio, and was engaged in the livery business for eight.months. Removing to Napoleon, in connection with David Hancock he was interested in the mercantile business for one year, at the end of that time going to Defiance, Ohio, where he took charge ofa restaurant for two years. He then located at Mount Blanchard and for two years was connected with a drug establishment at that place. Heremoved to Dunkirk, Hardin county, and for ten years followed the same business, coming in 1886 to Paulding county and establishing his present concern. Mr. Hebenthal deals in drugs and stationery and has been successful in his business affairs. He is gentlemanly and obliging and has built up a large and lucrative trade in Paulding county. Mr. Hebenthal was married in 1867 to Miss Lena, the daughter of Edward Dyer, of Watervile, Ohio, and two children have blessed their union. They are Delia, wife of Con Regan, of Paulding, and Mamie who is at home. The subject of this sketch is a republican in his political belief and a member of Theo. Merchant post, G. A. R., and Paulding Lodge, I. O. O. F., No. 577.

George M. Hoaglin, the city engineer of Paulding, is a descendant of a prominent pioneer family of Van Wert county, Ohio. He was born in this county, July 21, 1861, and was given his educational training in the common schools and the Normal school at Valparaiso, Ind., from which institution he graduated in 1886. He commenced teaching in Van Wert county in 1882, and was subsequently appointed county examiner. In 1888 he was elected superintendent of the Scott schools. Two years later he located at Paulding and engaged in engineering. In April, 1891, he was elected city engineer, which position he is at present filling with credit to himself and satisfaction to the people of the city. Politically he is a democrat, and belongs to the lodge I. O. of R., at Scott, and to the F. & A. M., at Paulding. Mr. Hoaglin was married in 1889 to Miss Jennie Snorf, an accomplished young lady of Paulding. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Charles L. Hoeffel is a native of Lorraine, France, and was born in the department of Delamert, county of Phalsbourg, February 2, 1851. His parents were Michael and Mary (Shafer) Hoeffel, the former of whom came to America in 1866 and located in Defiance county, where he was engaged in farming until his death. The subject of this sketch was fifteen years of age when he served an apprenticeship with Peter Westrick at the saddler's trade. He remained at Defiance engaged in this calling for five and a half years, and then traveled in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois and Colorado, for two years, working at his trade. He was married to Miss Catherine Burgmyer, of Toledo, on September 4, 1874, and became the father of Mary (deceased), Charles, Lina, Leo, Henry and Fetus. Locating in Defiance after his marriage, Mr. Hoeffel engaged in the harness and saddlery business, which he continued until 1887, when he removed to Emerald township, Paulding county, and followed farming. This last pursuit he was unable to continue on account of breaking his leg on March 21, 1890. In June, 1891, he again embarked in the harness trade in Paulding, where he handles a full line of harness, buggies, whips, robes, etc. He is a successful business man, widely and favorably known throughout the township and county. Mr. Hoeffel is a member of the Catholic church and a stanch republican in his political belief.

Thomas B. Holland. attorney, one of the leading members of the bar of Paulding county, is the subject of this biography. He was born March 1, 1845, in Allen county, Ohio, and is a son of B. A. and Lydia (Osborn) Holland. He received his early education in the publie schools and graduated from the high school of Lima, Ohio. He read law wi Judge Charles M. Hughes, of Lima, Ohio, and was admitted to the K of Ohio by the supreme court on August 14, 1869, and commenced the practice of law at Ada, Ohio, in 1870. In 1874 he came to Paulding, where he has since been in the active practice of his profession. Mr. Holland was elected county prosecutor in 1875, and filled the office until 1877. In 1861 he enlisted in the Thirty-second Ohio volunteer infantry, and was discharged for sickness. In 1862 he enlisted in the Fourteenth Missouri volunteer infantry, and was again dischargelfor sickness. In November of the same year he joined the One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio volunteer infantry, and was wounded in the shoulder and hand, and was discharged, by order from the war department, to accept the commission of a second lieutenant in the One Hundred Eightieth Ohio volunteer infantry. He commanded his company until the close of the war, and was discharged July 1, 1865. Mr. Holland was married Septem- 'ber 24,1871, to Miss Mary D.,a daughter of David Scott, and by this 'union they are the parents of three children: Charles B., Maud R. and James C. Politically, our subject is a democrat, and a leading spirit in his party. He is a member of Paulding lodge, No. 577, I. O. O. F., and 'Paulding lodge, No. 270, K. of P. | James Huston, a prominent dentist of Paulding county, is a native of Paint township, Wayne county, Ohio. He was born on August 17. 1832, the son of Cunningham and Elizabeth (Scott) Huston, natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish and Scotch descent. They were among the early settlers of Wayne county, and the father, who was a successful merchaut, accumulated a large amount of property. In 1843 he removed to the city of Mexico, where he hoped to better his condition, and engaged in bnsiness, which he continued until the outbreak of the Mexican war when he in company with other Americans left that territory. He disposed of his mercantile stock and taking a couple of trusted servants and a herd of mules, started for his old home. While en route, he was shot down and robbed by the men whom he had put his faith in, and his wife, with five sons and three daughters, was left in a condition little better than poverty. Mrs. Huston supported her children and reared them to manhood and womanhood. James Huston, the immediate subject of this sketch, was given a common education in the schools of the neighborhood and spent his vacations in clerking in a dry goods store. Later he attended the normal school at Fredericksburg, where he prepared himself for the vocation of teaching. This calling he followed for several years, in the meantime reading medicine with a view to studying dentistry. He spent two years in the office of Dr. E. Chidester, at Massillon, Ohio. After getting through with his studies in the fall of 1860 he went to West Virginia for the purpose of locating there, but on account of the political excitement existing throughout the south he returned in the spring of 1861 to Mt. Haton, the home of his birth, where he located and practiced dentistry successfully for ten years, and in the spring of 1871 moved to Dunkirk, Ohio, and was then given a certificate, in 1872, by the state board of examiners at Columbus, Ohio, for the practice of dentistry. Dr.Huston isthe pioneer dentist of the county and no man commands a higher place in the estimation of his fellowcitizens. Dr. Huston was happily married to Miss Rachel, daughter of Elisha and Rachel (Beales) Griffith, of Wayne county, and to this union have been born Mead C., Lulu, wife of William H. Cullen; and Frank G. Politically Dr. Huston is an ardent republican and fraternally belongs to the K. of P., No. 270, in which lodge he holds the position of master of exchequer; and the Masonic order, having held the position of secretary for four years, and being again elected to that office in November, 1891. While a resident of Dunkirk the doctor was a member of the school board and by his untiring efforts the school of that place became prosperous, and was placed upon an equal basis with the neighboring institutions of learning. Mead C. Huston, of the firm of Huston & Thompson, proprietors of the Thompson House, is the son of Dr. James Huston, and was born in Wayne county, Ohio, July 15, 1863. In childhood he removed to Dunkirk, Ohio, where his early life was spent, being educated in the city schools. During his vacations he studied dentistry with his father; later attended the dental college at Ann Arbor, Mich., in the winter term of 1884-5, after which he practiced dentistry with his father until the fall of 1886, when he engaged in caring for the traveling public at Dunkirk, which proved a success. In 1889 he sold and removed to Paulding, where he became proprietor of the Thompson House, since which time he has conducted a first-class house, and has made himself very popular with the knights of the grip. Politically, he is a republican; also a member of the K. of P., at Forest, Ohio. November 4, 1886, he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Kahler, a popular teacher of the Dunkirk high school, and daughter of Samuel Kahler, an early settler of Wayne county, Ohio. One son, Edward Everett, was born to this union, December 9, 1891. and Mrs. Huston are highly respected where known,

F. W. Hyman, a prominent and influential citizen of Paulding, now retired, was born in Nassau, Prussia, July 12, 1848, the son of William C. and Margaret (Upperman) Hyman. The parentscame to this country in 1852, and settled near Bellevue, Huron county, Ohio. The subject of this sketch was raised in his adopted county, was educated in the common schools, and spent his early life upon the farm. In 1867 he engaged in the general mercantile business at Kirby, Ohio, with his brother, P. H. Hyman, and together they carried on trade for some time. In 1875 Mr. Hyman embarked in the agricultural implement business until, in 1884, he came to Paulding, and engaged in the hardware trade. This he conducted with success until 1889, at which time he retired from active life, a wellto-do man. Mr. Hyman was united in marriage, in 1874, with Miss Mary Katzenmeyer, of Wyandot county, and three children have blessed their union, namely Winnie, Ninaand Harvey. Politically he is a republican, though in no sense a seeker for office.

W. B. Jackson. - The subject of this sketch was born in Paulding county, Ohio, July 26, 1857, the son of Benjamin B. and Elizabeth J. (Champion) Jackson. He was educated in the common schools and at the Northwestern Ohio normal, situated at Ada. He graduated from the latter institution in 1880, and taught in the schools of Paulding county for a number of years, and for five years was a teacher in the public schools of Antwerp. Three years of this time he held the position of superintendent of schools, and did etfective work in building up the educational institutions of Paulding county. In 1890 Mr. Jackson was elected clerk of the courts, which position he is at present filling. Politically he is a democrat, and fraternally belongs to Carryall lodge, No. 463, I. O. O. F.; Cecil Assembly, No. 8878, K. of L.,and the John Barnes, Camp No. 424, Sons of Veterans. He was married, in 1884, to Miss Kate, the youngest daughter of Nirum and Eliza (Wentworth) Strout, and to this happy union three children, Ruby C., Hazel H. and Edith S. Jackson, have been born. Mr. Jackson is an enterprising business man, and takes an active part in all matters relating to the advancement and prosperity of his county and state.

Hon. Arthur L. Knapp. - Prominent among the well known attorneys of Paulding county is Hon. Arthur L. Knapp, the present mayor of Paulding. He was born in Crawford county, Penn., December 2, 1856, and his early life was spent upon the homestead farm. His preliminary education was received at the common schools and in 1879 he graduated with honor from the normal school at Edinboro, Penn. He then taught in the schools of Crawford county for fourteen years and commenced the study of law with Judge Henderson, of Meadville, in 1883. In 1886 Mr. Knapp was admitted to the bar and in 1889 began the active practice of his profession in this county. In 1890 he was elected, on the democratic ticket, mayor of Paulding, which office he is now so acceptably filling. He isa member of the Paulding lodge, No. 502, F. & A. M. Mr. Knapp was married to Miss Belle, the daughter of Nathan Rumsey, of Beaver Center, Penn., and they have one child, Frank Lyle Knapp. As a successful lawyer, Mr. Knapp has tried many cases in his and other counties and has been very successful in his profession.

Judge Lafayette Lewis, born June 24, 1846, is a native of eastern Ohio. His parents were Morgan and Margaret Lewis, honored residents of the county in which they resided. The subject of this notice was reared on his father's farm and received a good education. In 1852 he located in Van Wert county, and engaged in farming with good success. He purchased his present farm in Latty township, Paulding county, Ohio, in the year 1884 and has since resided upon it. Mr. Lewis was elected in 1890 to the high position of probate judge of Paulding county, which he now occupies. He is a democrat in political sentiment and has discharged the duties of the minor township offices with satisfaction to all concerned. Judge Lewis was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda, the daughter of Jacob Dibert in 1874. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which organization he is a licensed exhorter. In 1864, Judge Lewis enlisted in the Seventy-eighth regiment of Ohio volunteers, and was with Gen. Sherman on his march to the sea. He served until the close of hostilities. In all the walks of life, Judge Lewis is highly esteemed, and, with his cultured wife, enjoys high rank in the social scale of Paulding county.

Max Lowenthal is one of the progressive citizens of Paulding, and was born in the city of New York on the 5th of December, 1856. He is the son of Bernard and Bertha Lowenthal, and received a common education. At age of thirteen years, he entered a dry goods store as clerk, and remained there for two years. At this time he enlisted in the United States regular army and served for five years. At the expiration of his term of service, he engaged in the stock business in

Dakota. Coming to Paulding on the 19th of August, 1889, he acted as clerk for John Brewer three months, and then worked on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R. a short time. Mr. Lowenthal then opened his present business, and conducted the same in the south end of the town. He has established nine saloons, including the one at Oakwood. Tn 1891 he located in his present building, which is 120 feet in depth, and fitted up with all the modern improvements. His marriage with Miss Sarah E. Grubb was solemnized in 1881, and their home has been brightened by the advent of Bertha and Harry. Mrs. Lowenthal is the daughter of Moses and Sarah Grubb, honored residents of Allen county, Ohio. She and her husband are respected members of the community in which they reside.

Henry Ludwig, groceryman at Cecil, Ohio, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in West Salem township, Mercer county, on the 3rd of January, 1851, the son of Abraham and Anna (Gongway) Ludwig. He was raised on the homestead farm and received his educational training in the schools of his township, learning, in connection with farming, the trade of a carpenter. home and followed his occupation in various places, coming, in 1883, to the county of Paulding, where he worked at his trade. Late in the fall of 1891 Mr. Ludwig purchased his present place of business, and is now successfully engaged in conducting the same. Politically he is identified with the democratic party, although he is in no sense of the word an office seeker.

J. A. Mohr, a successful dealer in real estate, loans and exchange of Paulding, is one of three children, two sons and one daughter, born to Jacob and Martha A. (Hattery) Mohr, the former a native of Germany, born February 26, 1838, and the latter of Carroll county, Ohio, who dates her birth from the year 1844. Frederick Mohr, the paternal grandparent, came to America in 1849 and with his family located near Mansfield, Ohio. He later moved to Van Wert where he built a log cabin and succeeded in clearing a farm of forty acres. This property is now in the possession of his youngest son, Jacob, the father of our subject. The latter was eleven years of age when he emigrated to this country. He was well educated both in the English and German languages. He married at the age of twenty-six years and located upon land adjoining his father's place, where he now resides. He is a well-to-do man, a republicau in politics, having held the minor township offices, and he and wife are worthy members of the Evangelical church. Mr. Mohr started life with but little he is a self-made man in every sense of the word. J. A. Mohr was born in Van Wert county, June 7, 1865. He attended school at Angolia for a short time and then went to Ada, where he completed a scientific course, graduating July 19, 1888. In 1880 Mr. Mohr taught school for three terms and then acted as agent for the Home Library association, meeting with marked success as a salesman. In September, 1888, he formed a partnership with J. R. Shotwell, of Scott, Ohio, and engaged in the real estate and loan business. The firm was successful and had a large and lucrative patronage. In August, 1891, the firm was dissolved by mutual consent and Mr. Mohr located at Paulding, where he is engaged in the above mentioned business. As a business man, Mr. Mohr is keen, progressive and successful and has worked hard for what he has. Politically he is a republican, active in the ranks of his party.

W. H. Montgomery, M. D., and the president of the United States pension board of Paulding county, Ohio, was born June 2, 1858, in Cambria county, Penn., the son of Rev. M. J. and Louisa (Kinter) Montgomery. His education was received in the common and high schools of Pittsburg, and he began the study of medicine with Dr. Eli Coon, of Butler county, Penn. He graduated from the college of physicians and surgeons at Baltimore, Md., in 1881, and commenced the practice of his profession at Leesburg, Penn., where he remained one year. Subsequently he removed to Coal Village, Allegheny county, Penn.,and later to Pittsburg, where he remained until 1890. Coming to Paulding in the latter year, he purchased the practice of Dr. A. P. Dix, and has since been engaged in a lucrative practice. Dr. Montgomery is thorough and competent in his profession, and is rapidly gaining the confidence of the people, of which he is in every way worthy. Dr. Montgomery is a member of the Coal Valley lodge, No. 649, I. O. O. F., and the Valley council, No. 198, Jr., O. U. A. M. He isa republican in politics and a man highly esteemed by a large number of friends and acquaintances.

0. Morrow, civil engineer and ex-county surveyor, was born in Warren county, Ohio, March 22, 1846, and is the son of William and Lydia (Williams) Morrow, who were natives of New York and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Morrow was reared a farmer's boy, having the advantages of the common schools, in which he prepared himself for teaching at the age of twenty years. He taught a few terms, then entered the Lebanon high school, and while there, completed a course in civil engineering. He later taught school for a few years, but in 1871 abandoned teaching. The same fall he located in Sumner county, Kans., where he entered a piece of land, remaining here two years, then returning east to McLean county, Ills., thence, one year afterward, to his native county. Mr. Morrow soon after was engaged as civil engineer at Warren, Ind., on the narrow gauge railroad, later at Salina, Ohio; afterward followed his profession on the railroad and county work until the summer of 1884, when he located at Paulding, Ohio, since which time he has been a resident of Paulding. During 1884-5 he engaged in timbering, then, in the fall of 1885, was the nominee of the republican party for county surveyor, to which he was elected, also re-elected in the fall of 1888, and made an efficient officer. Mr. Morrow is one of the progressive young men of the county, and is a member of the K. of P. lodge, 470. His marriage occurred June 11, 1890. Miss Eva DeWitt, a lady of fine attainments, became his bride. Mrs. Morrow is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Samuel R. Mott, Jr., justice of the peace and attorney, is a son of John G. and Anna (Rieder) Mott. He was born in Knox county, Ohio, January 12, 1831, and his early education was received in the common schools. He learned the molder's trade at St. Mary, Ohio, and Buffalo, N. Y., which he followed for an occupation for six years. In 1855 he located in Auglaize county, Ohio, and engaged in the saw mill and lumber business. In 1858 he commenced reading law with Col. John Walkup, of Wapakoneta, Ohio. At the breaking out of the war he abandoned his studies, and in April, 1861, he joined company K, Fifteenth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served three months; he then enlisted in company C, Fifty-seventh Ohio volunteer infantry, and was elected captain. In 1862 he was commissioned lieutenant-colonel, and subsequently was made the colonel of his regiment, served until September 26, 1865, and was discharged with the rank of brigadier-general. Our subject was three times wounded: at Shiloh, in the right hip; at Vicksburg, in the neck, and at Atlanta, in the left knee. He was with Gen. Sherman from Atlanta to the sea, and participated in some fifty different engagements. At the close of the war our subject resumed the study of law, was admitted in 1866, and commenced the practice of law at Wapakoneta. In September, 1874, he located in Paulding, where he has since resided, practicing his profession. Our subject was one of the promoters of the Cecil & Paulding railroad, by which he suffered heavy financial loss. Politically Mr. Mott is an ardent democrat, and while a resident of Auglaize county, represented that county in the state legislature, and also filled the office of recorder. He has also been the mayor of Paulding, and has filled the office of justice of the peace for twelve years. Mr. Mott was married in 1852 to Miss Martha, a daughter of Peter Apgar, formerly of New Jersey, and by this marriage they are the parents of six living children: Sherman, Florence, wife of Leon Bloom; Ida J., widow of M. T. Harrison; Gertie, wife of Charles Brewer; Americus V. and Leond. Our subject was one of the charter members, and the first master of Paulding lodge, No. 502, F. & A. M. Asa good soldier in the past, and au upright citizen in the present, the colonel commands the respect of the people of Paulding county.

Sherman Mott, the eldest son of Col. S. R. Mott, was born in Wapakoneta, Auglaize county, Ohio, Sunday morning, July 22, 1866. At the age of twelve years he came to Paulding, Ohio, with his parents, where he was educated and grew to manhood. In 1879 he began learning the printer's trade in the office of the Paulding Democrat, under the management of R. D. Webster. He, after serving his apprenticeship, worked at journeyman work until November, 1887, when he and his brother opened a confectionery store and news stand, and just one year later sold out, when Mr. Mott established the Sherwood Sentinel, of which he was editor and proprietor until January, 1889, when he sold out, having been chosen message clerk of the Ohio house of representatives, which position he ably filled. During the latter part of his term of office he established the Scott Messenger, at Scott, Paulding county, Ohio, and edited the same until the spring of 1891, when he sold out and began the study of law in the office of H. C. Glenn, of Van Wert, Ohio. Mr. Mott is one of the progressive young men. He was united in marriage November 20, 1888, with Miss Minnie Leota Reid, of Van Wert, Ohio.

Murphy Family. - Among the early settlers of Paulding county was Robert Murphy, a native of county Down, Ireland, who emigrated to this country, and settled in Pennsylvania. He subsequently removed to what was then Williams county, and now Paulding, Ohio. He purchased one hundred and six acres of land, situated upon the Maumee his son, Daniel Murphy. His family consisted of Philip, John, Robert, Joseph, Daniel, Rosanna, who married S. Filly (both deceased); Anna, who married Wilson Snook (both deceased) and Harriet, who married John Collins (also both deceased). Robert, Sr., married Anna Jackson, a native of Pennsylvania, and died about 1843. He was the first treasurer of Carryall township, and in politics was a democrat; in religion he was a Presbyterian.

Joseph K., the fourth son of Robert Murphy, was born in 1814, in Pennsylvania, and came to Paulding with his parents. He was a farmer and local preacher in the M. E. church, which he followed through life. He married, in 1837, Miss Phoebe, a daughter of Sylvestus Carvin, of Antwerp, Ohio, one of the pioneer settlers of that locality, and by this marriage they were the parents of six children: Robert S., Daniel, who died of sickness contracted in the United States marine service on the steamer Baltic, August 3, 1863; Joshua, of Fort Gate, Dak.; Mary J., deceesed wife of Owen Cole; Isaac Newton; Roseanna, who was twice married -

| first to George Genther, and secondly to Gilbert James; Ellen, wife of Frank Pierman. Joseph K. died November 22, 1852, and his wife in 1882.

He held many minor township offices, was a democrat, and a self-made and self-educated man, having had no opportunities in early life. Robert S., the eldest child, was born in what was Williams county, April 15, 1840. His early life was spent on the home farm, and he was educated in the subscription schools. August 27, 1861, he enlisted in company E, Thirtieth Indiana volunteer infantry. At the battle of Corinth he was made sergeant of his company, and served with his regiment until 1863, when he contracted rheumatism, and was discharged. He next enlisted in the marine service, and was made sergeant of company H, First marine regiment, on the 23rd of August, in the same year. He was made second lieutenant of the same company, May 9, 1864, and was commissioned, by President Lincoln, first lieutenant. He participated in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, siege of Vicksburg, and a score of smaller engagements. His discharge was endorsed by D. 5. Tallerdy, major commanding, as follows: "I have known this officer three years, and have ever found him prompt and efficient in the discharge of his duty. As a gentleman his character is irreproachable, and he is brave even to a fault." At the close of his term of service he returned to Antwerp, and engaged in farming, until 1866. He then engaged in mercantile business for seven years, and was then elected justice of peace and engaged in real estate business in Antwerp. In 1881 he was elected county auditor, an office he filled for one term, and then engaged in mercantile and insurance business until the spring of 1891, when he retired. Since his election as county auditor he has been a resident of Paulding, and has filled the office of town councilman four years. In politics he is a republican, and he a member of the F. & A. M., Paulding lodge, 502; also of Defiance chapter and the commandery, No. 30, of Defiance; and member of the Ohio consistory S. P. R. S., 32nd degree. Also, Theodore Merchant Post, C. A. R., No. 683, and has been post commander since its organization; and commander of Paulding county battalion, G. A. R.; also of Paulding lodge, K. of P. Mr. Hughes was married, August 13, 1865, to Miss Roxanna, daughter of John and Jane Evans, who died October 8, 1876, leaving four children, viz.: Charles, Florence Adell, Cora B. and Alva. His second marriage occurred June 8, 1889, to Mrs. Esther Snyder, daughter of Jacob Goldsmith, of Monroe county, Ohio.

E. S. Nichols, of the firm of Nichols & Dickman, editors of the Paulding County Democrat, the subject of this sketch, was born in December, 1862, in Auglaize county, Ohio, received a high school education, and at the age of fifteen, entered a printing office to learn the printing trade. After working at Wapakoneta four years he went to Washington, a situation in the government printing office having been tendered to him through the kindly efforts of Hon. Benjamin Le Fevre. After remaining here a year and a half, he resigned to enter the study of law in the office of Congressman Layton & Stueve, remaining here until after the election of Cleveland to the presidency, when he again accepted a place in the government office. After a few months' work Mr. Nichols was promoted to the position of proof reader and several months later was again promoted, being made one of the editors of copy in that large establishment. He held the place until after the inauguration of Harrison, resigning in April, 1889. While inthe government employ, Mr. Nichols availed himself of the night sessions of the law schools of the capital city and completed his law studies, graduating from the Georgetown university law school in 1888. Mr. Nichols married, in August, 1885, the daughter of C. W. Humphreys, master mechanic of the B. & O. R. R., in the city of Washington. Mr. Nichols practiced law in Wapakoneta until October, 1891, when he in connection with Mr. Dickman, of the same place, pur-

William H. Phipps. - Among the energetic young lawyers of Paulding, William H. Phipps occupies a notable place. He was born at Caldwell, Ohio, August 16, 1864, the son of Samuel H. and Mary (Miller) Phipps. His early educational training was received in the common schools, and was completed at the Northwestern Ohio university and Elizabethtown college. In 1887, Mr. Phipps began reading law with Hon. D. S. Spriggs, of Caldwell, and was admitted to the practice in 1889. The same year he settled in Paulding, where he has practiced ever since, enjoying lucrative patronage. Mr. Phipps was married, August 14, 1890, to Miss Nora, the daughter of William K.Cooper. Sheis an estimable lady, possessing many social qualities. Politically Mr. Phipps is a republican, belongs to the Sons of Veterans lodge of Caldwell, Ohio, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity of Paulding.

George W. Potter (deceased). - Among the men who have passed away and who stood out prominently in the early improvement of Paulding, is the subject of this sketch, George W. Potter, who was born in Wayne county, N. Y., September 11, 1826, and was a son of William and Fanny (Squires) Potter. His father was a native of England, and his mother a native of Wayne county, N. Y. At the age of three years Mr. Potter lost his mother, and upon her death his father returned to his native land, binding out our subject to a man by the name of Morris, until he became of age. At the age of thirteen Mr. Potter ran away and went to sea, which he followed until 1847, when he joined the American army and served through the Mexican war, receiving a gunshot wound in the bowels, while guarding an army train with his company. At the close of the war Mr. Potter settled in Jay county, Ind., and engaged in farming and mercantile business. He subsequently concluded to change locations and selected Morrow county, Ohio, and engaged in the same business. While a resident of that county he was elected to the office of justice of the peace, which he filled for nine years, and while still in that county he commenced reading law under H. S. Profeth, in connection with his other business ventures, and was admitted to the bar in 1867. In 1868 he again changed his location, at this time coming to Paulding. Here he established a mercantile business, and commenced the practice of law. Six years later Mr. Potter established the first bank in Paulding county, and it is still in a flourishing condition and is known as the Potter bank. He was one of the promoters and builders of the Cecil & Paulding railroad, by which he suffered heavy financial loss. In 1874, in connection with his son, W. B. Potter, he established the Paulding Democrat. In 1862 he joined company F, Forty-third Ohio volunteer infantry, and served one year. Mr. Potter was married, in 1850, to Miss Rachel, a daughter of Isaac Youngs, of Jay county, Ind., and by this union they were the! parents of five children: Elizabeth, wife of Edwin 8. Dix; William B., banker; Phebe F., wife of A. McDonald; Emma, wife of W. G. Brumbaugh; and Mary A., wife of D. D. McDonald. In his political views Mr. Potter was a stanch democrat, in which party he exercised no little influence and power. He was twice elected mayor of Paulding, filled the office of justice twice, and city treasurer two terms. He was a member of Paulding lodge, I. O. O.F. In his religious views he was liberal. His death occurred May 15, 1887, but his wife survived him, and resides in Paulding.

W. B. Potter, the only son of George W. Potter, was born February 18, 1854, in Jay county, Ind., and was reared in Morrowand Jay counties. He received a common school education and then learned the printer's trade in the office of the Plaindealer, and worked four years at the business. After serving his time, in 1874 he and his father established the Paulding Democrat, which our subject conducted for two years. In 1876 he engaged in the real estate and insurance business under the firm name of Parr & Potter. Mr. Parr subsequently retired and the firm became Potter & Durfey. Mr. Potter subsequently purchased Mr. Durfey's interest and conducted the business until 1881. He then entered his father's bank as bookkeeper, which position he filled until 1887, when he became its cashier, which position he has since filled. Our subject is also extensively engaged in farming. He was married in 1881 to Miss Alma R., daughter of Solomon Miller, of Paulding, and by this marriage they are the parents of five children: George W., Kenneth B., Wesley N., Glenn S., and Muriel R. Mr. Potter's political affiliations are with the democratic party, and while he never sought or would accept public office, he takes great interest in the success of his party; and he is one of the energetic and enterprising business men of Paulding, and commands the respect of the people of his county.

Isaiah Richards. - Among the early residents of Paulding was the subject of this sketch. He was born in Crawford county, Ohio, January 25, 1825, and is a son of James and Deborah (Hollingsworth) Rich- ards, both of German extraction, who settled in this state. Our subject's early life was spent upon the homestead farm, receiving such education as could be obtained from the subscription schools of that period. In 1855 Mr. Richards settled in Paulding, and purchased the hotel property from A. G. Smith, and was the landlord for seven years. In the fall of 1857 he was placed in nomination on the democratic ticket for sheriff of the county, and was elected by a good majority. He served the people faithfully. Mr. Richards was quite a hunter during his early life, having killed bear, deer and other game. In April, 1861,he enlisted in company G, Fourteenth Ohio volunteer infantry, three months' service, and served until discharged. In the fall of 1861, Mr. Richards was elected to fill the office of county treasurer, in which position he served for four years. In 1865 he was elected county auditor, and filled the office with such ability for three years, that, at the expiration of his term of office in 1868, the people elected him recorder, which office he filled for ten years. After retiring from public duties, Mr. Richards engaged in farming. In his early life Mr. Richards was a democrat, but since and during the war he has affiliated with the republican party. He was married November 30, 1849, to Miss Sarah, a daughter of Andrew Yeagly, of Crawford county, Ohio, and by this marriage they are the parents of four children: James D., Rance L., Francis, and Jennie, wife of B. F. Griffin, of Toledo, Ohio. Our subject is a member of Paulding lodge, No. 562, F. & A. M. After a residence of thirty-eight years, and twenty years of public service in the county, it is befitting that some mention should be made of our subject for integrity, and his honest administration of office. No man stands higher in the community than Mr. Richards.

James Richards, of the firm of Cullen, Richards & Savercool, insurance agents, is a native of Paulding, Ohio, having been born on the 8th of February, 1865, the youngest of a family of three sons and one daughter, the children of Isaiah Richards. He was educated in the schools of his native town, accepting at the age of sixteen years a good position in the office of the county recorder, his father being the incumbent of that office at the time. Here he remained for four years, gaining a knowledge of men and events which was to be so essential in his business life. He then engaged as a clerk in the dry goods store of Mr. Cullen, his present partner, remaining in the emply of that gentleman for over a year. In April, 1888, in company with his former employer, he purchased the insurance business of George F. McCabe and the firm of Cullen & Richards was established. In the spring of 1891, Mr. E. M. Savercool was taken into the concern and the firm name is now Cullen, Richards & Savercool. Asa business man Mr. Richards is popular, progressive and painstaking. He is a republican in his political belief, and has served as a councilman of the city of Paulding. Fraternally he belongs to the K. of P. lodge. Mr. Richards was united in marriage with Miss Della Cramer of Paulding, Ohio, on the 7th,of October, 1890. Mrs. Richards was born in Allen county, Ohio, on March 30, 1867, and she is the only daughter of S. W. Cramer, a prominent citizen of the county. Joseph R. Koss, editor and proprietor of the Paulding county Republican, is a native of Mercer county, Ohio, and was born January 8, 1863. He is the son of Thomas C. and Mary (Sherer) Ross, the former a native of Kentucky, of Scotch parentage. The latter was born in Pennsylvania, of German extraction. The grandfather of Mr. Ross became a pioneer of Mercer county, where he entered land and spent a long useful life. Thomas C. was a boy of six years when he came into the county, where he grew to manhood, and has since lived, owning a part of his father's old home, which he assisted to redeem from the forest. At the age of twenty-six years, he married Miss Mary Sherer, who came to the county in childhood, and has been a resident since. They are prosperous, well-to do people, and enjoy a substantial home near Mendon, Ohio. Our subject, Joseph R., was reared upon the farm, where a good opportunity was afforded for plenty of hard work and a country school education. He was studiously inclined, and had a strong disposition to excel, as well a retentive memory, thus standing at the head of his classes. Taking to books kindly, his leisure hours upon the farm were spent in reading, from which he profited later on. At the age of eighteen he held a teacher's license, but instead of teaching he began an apprenticeship in the office of the Mercer county Observer, during which time he pursued acourse of study under the direction of Rev. J. M. Anderson, who took a great interest in him, then, as his own preceptor, he has become well versed and is a fair example of what pluck, and a determination to succeed will accomplish. In 1884, he became a partner in the office, which co-partuership existed until the fall of 1889, when he sold his interest, and December 1, 1889, he purchased the Paulding county Republican, which under his management and editorial skill now ranks second to none, being a clean, well-edited county paper and party organ. Mr. Ross is one of the thorough going progressive young men. On October 24, 1888, he was united in marriage with Miss Delphene Roop, of Celina, Ohio, third daughter of the late Judge D. J. Roop. Mrs. Ross was born at Fort Recovery, Ohio, July 7, 1863, and was educated in the high schools of Celina, graduating in 1879, after which she taught several terms in the public schools of that place. From 1883 to 1885, she was a typo in the office of the Mercer county Observer, during which time the friendship formed as co-workers ended in marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Ross are worthy members of the Presbyterian church.

Edward M. Savercool. - Prominent among the insurance solicitors of Paulding county is Edward M. Savercool, junior member of the firm of Cullen, Richards & Savercool, who was born at Madison, Wis., June 11, 1861. Mr. Savercool is one of a family of three sons and four daughters, the offspring of Reuben Eliza (Smith) Savercool, natives of New York. The parents became residents of Ohio in their childhood, and were married in Saville, in 1840. Removing to Madison, Wis., they made that city their home until 1863, when they located iu Kansas. In 1875 they went to Chico, Cal.;and are now living in Nampa, Idaho. Reuben Savercool was a member of the Third Wisconsin cavalry during the late war, having enlisted in 1861. He was in active service in Arkansas and Missouri, and after the expiration of his three years' term of enlistment, received his honorable discharge. While living in Kansas, he owned a large stock ranch, and upon locating in California, he followed stockraising and mining. He was part owner of the Savercool quartz mine, a successful enterprise. He is living in retirement at the present, and with his wife, who has been his helpmeet for fifty-one years, he is enjoying the evening of life in peace and prosperity. Edward Savercool was but three years of age when his parents removed to Kansas, and he was fourteen years old at the time he was taken to Chico, Cal. He was well educated, receiving an academic training. At the age of seventeen he began an active business life, taking charge of his father's interest in the mines, which, in after life, he owned in partnership with his brothers, who are extensive mining operators in northern California, This mine is now in successful operation. In the fall of 1883 Mr. Savercool came to Paulding county, and on the 9th of January, 1884, was married to Miss Jennie R., the accomplished and only daughter of James M. and Mary E. Russell. Mrs. Savercool was born in Paulding, and at the time of her marriage was a teacher in the schools of the county. Mrs. Savercool was well educated, attending the Fostoria normal school and graduating at the Northwestern Ohio normal school at Ada, Ohio. She died April 10, 1891, leaving one child, a daughter, named Jennie. She was a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church during her life, and belonged to the Grand lodge of I. O. G. T. After his marriage Mr. Savercool located upon the Russell farm, near Oakwood, and engaged in farming in company with H. G. Russell, under the firm name of Savercool & Russell, and these gentlemen own and operate one of the largest farms in Brown township. In 1887 Mr. Savercool embarked in the mercantile business, in company with L. C. Keck, in Oakwood, and under the firm name of Keck & Savercool. In 1891 Mr. Savercool sold his share in the mercantile business and became a member of the firm of Cullen, Richards & Savercool. He is anenergetic and progressive young man, and, as before stated, ranks very high as a solicitor. Politically he is a republican, and belongs to Paulding lodge, F. A. M., and Oakwood lodge, No. 737, I. O. O. F.

Alfred H. Saylor, ex-sheriff of Paulding county, was born July 26, 1861, on the state line between Ohio and Indiana. His father was Jacob Saylor, and the maiden name of his mother was Elizabeth J. Curtis. She was the daughter of Gen. H. W. Curtis. Alfred H. Saylor spent his youth upon a farm, and received his education in the schools of Antwerp and the Methodist Episcopal college, of Fort Wayne. He graduated from Eastman's business college, of Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and in 1881 engaged in the manufacture of staves at St. Louis, in company with his brother, H. N. Saylor, under the firm name of H. N. Saylor & Bro. He remained in this city for three years, and then, removing to Payne, Ohio, embarked in the dry goods business. Subsequently he returned to St. Louis and entered the employ of his brother, and later became one of the firm of Saylor & Co., composed of H. N. Saylor, his father, and our subject, for the manufacture of patent coiled elm staves. Mr. Saylor is still engaged in this business, and has become a successful | business man. In 1839 he was elected to the office of sheriff as a democrat, honorably discharged the duties of that position. and proved himself a worthy and efficient official. He was at all times prompt in looking after the duties of the office, and in discharging such, showed himself to be a servant of the people. His social, unassuming way, and the official ability exercised, won for him a host of friends in the county. Mr.

Edward Staley, the popular sheriff of Paulding county and the superintendent of the establishment of N. Moses & Bro., dealers in timber and real estate, was born in LaFayette, Allen county, Ohio, March 7, 1862, the son of Isaac Staley. an early and prominent settler of Washington township, Paulding county, and a native of Virginia. When a child, the subject of this sketch was brought to Paulding county, where he was reared and educated. At the age of nineteen years he rented the homestead farm, and engaged in the timber business in the vicinity of Melrose. He also learned the trade of the blacksmith and became a good mechanic. In the fall of 1881 Mr. Staley engaged in business for the firm of N. Moses & Bro., remaining with them for two years. He then spent one year in prospecting in the mines at Leadville, Col., and in the timber trade, but not meeting with the success he anticipated, in the fall of 1883 he returned to Melrose, where he at once found employment with the above named firm, and since that time he has had full charge of the timber and real estate business in this and adjoining counties. During his business engagement with this firm Mr. Staley has paid out in Paulding and other counties the sum of 31,000,000. He has invested his earnings in land, and is engaged in farming by proxy, owning in Washington and Latty townships 400 acres, 100 of which are cultivated. Starting in life with but iittle means Mr. Staley has, by integrity, energy and activity, succeeded in becoming one of the well-to-do young men of the county, and is most favorably known. He is a republican politically; is a member of the F. & A. M.; the Blue lodge, at Paulding, No. 502; is one of the youngest Knights Templar in northwestern Ohio, being a member of lodge No. 30, at Defiance, and he is a charter member of the K. of P. lodge, No. 503, at Melrose. Mr. Staley was married. in April, 1885, to Miss Elva Day, of Henry county, and the union has resulted in the birth of one child, a daughter. Jessie. born on the 23rd of June, 1886. Mrs. Staley died July 18, 1886, having been a lady highly esteemed wherever known, and a faithful and loving wife and mother. During the last campaign Mr. Staley was elected sheriff of the county on November 3, 1891, by a majority of 179. his opponent being Mr. O. H. Saylor, a popular candidate for re-election. In discharging his official duties, Mr. Staley is giving satisfaction to his constituents, and he is well worthy the honor conferred upon him.

Saylor is a member of the Paulding lodge, K. of P., and is past master workman of assembly No. - -, K. of L., of Paulding. He was married, in 1885, to Miss Carrie C., the daughter of Henry George, and is the father of two bright children, whose names are Alfred H. and Vergie G.

C. A. Seiders, born ia Allentown, Penn., June 1, 1857, a rising young attorney of Ohio. He came with his parents to Seneca county in 1866, and his preliminary education was received at the common and high schools. He read law with Lutes & Lutes, of Tiffin, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in 1882. In April, 1883, he located in Paulding and formed a law partnership with F. B. DeWitt, Which continued for two years. Mr. Seiders was united in marriage with Miss Edith Sams on the 1st of May, 1883. Mrs, Seiders is an accomplished young woman, and at the time of her marriage was practicing law in Tiffin. Ohio. She has since been associated in the practice with her husband, under the firm name of Seiders & Seiders, but not actively engaged therein for the past. four years. Two children have blessed this union, named Marian D. and Seth Seiders. The subject of this sketch is a member of Paulding lodge, No. 270, K. of P.,and is the attorney under salary for the ~ Nickle Plate" railroad and the C., J. & M.R. R., having full charge of the legal affairs of both companies in Paulding county. He is also attorney for a number of large corporations, among them the J. S. Emigh Lumber Co., of Payne, Ohio, and the Poplarville Lumber company of Mississippi. Politically, Mr. Seiders is a republican, and as a private and public man enjoys general popularity and esteem. Mrs. Edith S. Seiders, his wife, was born in Hillsboro, the daughter of English parents. She was educated in her native city and Tiffin, by her mother, and read law with Miss Florence Cronise of that place. Mrs, Seiders'is the first lady in Ohio who has been honored by admission to the bar of that state by the supreme court, She commenced her work in partnership with her preceptor and continued with her until her marriage, and in company with her husband she has practiced in Paulding ever since. Mr, and Mrs. Seiders are honored residents of the community in which they live, popular with all who know them.

Theodore F, Shotwell, attorney, is a son of Rev. John M. and Salome (Stone) Shotwell. He was born at Waterville, N. Y., July 30, 1351. His early education was obtained in the public schools of his native town. He attended the Genesee Valley seminary, of Belfast, N. Y., and graduated from Oberland college in 1872, then read law with Goodman & Wellman, of Norwalk, Ohio, and was admitted to the Ohio bar, March 28, 1878. In the same year he located at Paulding, Ohio, and commenced the practice of his profession, which he has since followed with success. Politically Mr. Shotwell is a republican, and as such has filled the office of clerk of the school board of Paulding. He was married, in 1876, to Miss Anna H., daughter of James and Rebecca Kimstrey. By this marriage they have three children: Charles W., Rebecca, and Herbert C. Our subject is a member of Paulding lodge, No. 270, K. of P., also of the Presbyterian church, and is one of the leading members of the Paulding county bar, and one of the leading citizens of Paulding.

K. E. Shuster, attorney, was born in Hardin county. Ohio, on the 3d of July, 1845, the son of John and Elizabeth (Wingate) Shuster. He was reared on the farm and there, amid rural scenes, learned those lessons of economy and industry which have characterized his life. At the age of seventeen he enlisted in Eighty-second regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry, and was actively engaged; was wounded at Dallas, Ga.. in the left ankle, and was nat able to return to his regiment again. Returning home after the close of the war, Mr. Shuster spent several years in carpentering and masonry. He then attended the normal school at Ada, Ohio, and there prepared to become a teacher. In 1870 he began a successful career in this calling, taking charge in 1873 of the grammar department of the Union schools of Ada. He was promoted to the office of superintendent of schools and held the same until 1875, when he resigned in order to engage in the practice of the law. He read law with Duane Cunningham, of Lima, and was admitted to the bar in 1878, at once entering the active practice of his profession, which has been large and lucrative. He is not only a successful practitioner in his county but in all adjoining counties and he is highly esteemed wherever known. Politically Mr. Shuster is an active worker for the democratic party, and fraternally he belongs to Paulding lodge No. 502, F. & A. M.. and the C.A. R, Theo. Merchant post. He was married to Miss Martha J. Breckler of Hancock county, in 1871, and one child, a daughter, named Verde, has been born to them.

Joseph Silberberg is the editor and proprietor of Die Freie Presse. a German weekly democratic newspaper, published at the county seat of Paulding county; it is the only paper printed in German in the county. It reaches a thrifty, well-to-do and growing class of people, whose sterling qualities as citizens and business men are well known every community, particularly in Ohio. The German is, as is well known, inseparably attached to his mother tongue and the customs of fatherland; for this reason he likes to read the news in his native tongue, and to supply this long-felt want Die Freie Presse was established. Joseph Silberberg, the editor and proprietor of the paper, was born and educated in Germany. When still a boy he was apprenticed to a newspaper printer, where he learned, during a five years' stay, the intricacies of the publication business. When twenty-one years of age he came to this country, where he worked in many states as a printer, always anxious to see as much of the people and country as his means would permit him. Possessing a tendency for close observation and study he soon learned to love our country, its institutions and people, and eighteen years ago. eight years after his arrival, he became an American citizen, choosing this country as his future home. Mr. Silberberg is a hard worker. His earnest efforts, while having in the first place the advancement of German culture for his purpose, are thoroughly imbued by patriotic love for institutions and people of his adopted country.

Wilson H. Snook, ex-prosecuting attorney, and one of the leading attorneys of the Paulding county bar, was born near Antwerp, Ohio, October 30, 1850, His parents, Wilson H., Sr., and Anna (Murphy) Snook, were both natives of New Jersey, and of German and Irish parentage respectively. The father of our subject was reared to early manhood in his native state, when he came with his parents William H, and Parmelia Snook. to Defiance county, Ohio, locating at Delaware Bend, in 1826. Wilson H. Snook, Sr., was the third son, and started in life empty-handed, with a strong determination to succeed, following farming through life in connection with merchandising at Antwerp, the last few years. He by his active business life and good financiering ability, became well-to-do, leaving a good home for his family at his death, which occurred in November, 1853, aged forty-four years. At the age of twenty-three years he was married to Miss Anna Murphy, a daughter of Robert Murphy, one of the pioneers of Carryall township, which marriage resulted in the birth of four sons, viz.: William, Byron, John and Wilson H. Mrs. Snook died January 2, 1871, aged fifty-eight years. Mr. Snook and wife were prominent members of, the Methodist Episcopal chureh. W. H. Snook, the subject of this sketch, was the youngest of the family, and was reared to manhood upon the homestead farm near Antwerp, Ohio, having the advantages of the common school. Being favored with a studious disposition and retentive memory, he made good use of his time. He later attended school one year at Newville, Ind., after which he taught in the common schools of the county a few terms. He then attended school at Maumee City, Ohio, for one year. In 1869, he entered the Baldwin university. at Berea. Ohio, and spent four years of hard work, when he abandoned school life, resuming farming and teaching school during the winter. He also began reading law with Hon. L. S. Gordon as:his preceptor. He applied himself closely to his chosen work, and 1879 was admitted to the bar, at Columbus, Ohio, and immediately thereafter began the practice of his profession at Antwerp, Ohio, where he commanded a lucrative practice until the fall of 1835, when he was elected prosecuting attorney of Paulding county, by the republican party, and re-elected in 1888, having made an efficient official, He isan able jurist and a safe counselor-at-law. He is a strong partisan in the republican ranks and was the nominee for the common pleas judge of the district composed of Williams, Defiance and Paulding counties, but the election is now under contest. He is a member of lodge No. 335, F. & A. M., at Autwerp, also the commandery at Defiance, Ohio. Mr. Snook was married April 11, 1877, to Miss Nannie Graves, the daughter of Z. T. Graves, an early settler of Carryall township, This marriage has been blessed with four children, viz.: Homer C.. Lee May, Otto Ward and Ethel Maud. Mr. and Mrs. Snook are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal echureh, and are highly respecte citizens.

Allen G. Snow was born in Knox county, Ohio, August 2, 1865, the son of Freeman and Mary (Gann) Snow, of German, French and Scotch extraction. The early life of our subject was spent in his native county, where be attended the common schools. At the age of sixteen, he served an apprenticeship of three years in the drug store of Edmund Bocking, of Wheeling. W. Va.. after which he attended the Cleveland college of pharmacy for about eighteen months. After his graduation from this | institution, on September 13. 1833, he clerked in Cleveland, and in 1890, removed to Paulding, where he took charge of the store owned by Hon. J. L. Geyer. This he continued until September 8, 1890, at whieh time he embarked in the drug business upon his own responsibility. His stock, - whieh is first class, is comprised of drugs, fancy goods, toilet articles, wall paper, artists' materials and school books. Mr. Snow is a republican, and a member of Masonic lodge, No, 417, at East Palestine, Ohio. He is a representative and enterprising young man, and if life and health be spared to him, will doubtless have a long and prosperous business career.

A. M. Sponsler, the assistant cashier of the Potter bank, and one of the progressive young men of Paulding, was born in Kenton, Hardin county, Ohio, the son of Jacob and Margaret (Slonaker) Sponsler. The early life of our subject was spent upon the farm an he acquired his education in the schools of the county. He eariy engaged in farming and stoekraising, and in 1889 came to Paulding and engaged in the hardware business under the firm name of Savage & Co. In 1890 Mr. Sponsler bought the entire business and built up a fine business, having a store 76x22, which was completely stocked with a fine line of agricultural] implements, buggies, wagons, stoves and general hardware. Late in the

| Sponsler occupies a prominent place in the estimation of his fellow citizens and his great personal popularity has won him a large circle of friends throughout the county.

reared and educated. He learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for an occupation until 1861, when he enlisted in company K, Eighth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served three and one-half years, and was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, in the left ankle. He participated in the following engagements: Winchester, Fredricksburg, Gettysburg, Wilderness, Chancellorsville, Antietam, Mine Run, Weldon railroad, North Anna and Cold Harbor. After the close of the war Mr. Spring was engaged at his trade until 1868, when he settled in Paulding and engaged in teaching, for a number of years, throughout the county, and in 1885 he established his present business. In 1879 he was appointed mayor of Paulding and elected the two following terms. He was deputy clerk in 1878, under A. D. Fuller. In 1888, he was appointed by Gov. Foraker, probate judge, to fill the unexpired term of W. G. Lee. Politically he affiliates with the republican party. Mr. Spring is past master of Paulding lodge, No. 502, E. & A. M., member of Theo, Merchant post, G. A.R. He was married in 1863, to Miss Achsa, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Barnes, and by this union they are the parents of four children: Nellie V.. A. Fay, Clark E. and J. Carroll. Mr. Spring is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is one of the trustees.

W. F. Straw, manufacturer of drain tile and brick, isa native of Crawford county, Ohio, and was born on the 26th of October, 1833, the son of Orrel and Rosetta (Main) Straw. He was educated in the schools of his county and learned the tinner's trade at Mansfield. He went to Kenton,

Ohio, in 1856, and engaged in the business, following it for ten years, when he removed to La Fafayette, and later to Fort Wayne, where he carried on his occupation. He then engaged in farming in Illinois for four years, removed to Paulding and established, in partnership with Messrs. Durfy and Segars, a hardware store. Subsequently Mr. Straw purchased his partners' entire interests and operated the same until 1876. He then located upon his present place, which he had previously purchased, and which he still occupies. Mr. Straw is a member of the school board of Paulding and belongs to the F. & A. M. lodge. He has been twice married. Miss Amanda Baird, of Upper Sandusky, who became his wife, died, leaving a daughter, Emily P. He then married Mrs. Martha Nash Craig, and four children, two of whom, Charles L. and Rosa M., are living, were born to them.

Samuel J. Taite, deputy sheriff-and one of the representative men of the county, was born at Tate's Landing, April 1, 1854, the younger of two children and only son born to Lyle and Martha A. (Alexander) Tate, who were natives of Ireland. Lyle Tate was born in Ireland in 1820, and emigrated to Canada with his parents, John and Jane (Lowry) Tate, thence to Paulding county in 1840, where they died in 1843 and 1872, respectively, aged sixty-seven and ninety-six years. Mr. Lyle Tate came into the county in 1840, and soon after engaged in the grocery business at Sharpslock, later at Tate's Landing, where he did business for many years: he also owned and operated a large farm. He married, in 1851, Miss Martha Ann Alexander, which union resulted in the birth of two children, Anna J. and Samuel J. Mr. Tate was appointed postmaster under President Buchanan, in 1860, and served for eighteen years. Lyle Tate was astanch republican, and served as township trustee several terms, and was also a member of the infirmary directory; then, in 1887, he retired from business, locating in Paulding with his daughter, Mrs. J. B. Cromley. His death occurred August 10, 1890, aged seventy years. 8. J. Tate was reared in the lap of industry, educated in the common schools, and upon arriving at early manhood engaged in business with his father under the firm name of Tate & Son. In the fall of 1879 he was elected, on the republican ticket, sheriff of Paulding county; then re-elected in 1881, making an efficient and popular official for six years. During his last term he engaged in the hardware business with J. B. Cromley, the firm name being known as Tate & Co. Two years later the firm of Tate & Cromley became successor to the firm of Tate & Co., which firm continued in business until the fall of 1891, when it became extinct at the death of Mr. Cromley, The last two years they had been engaged in the livery business and handling agricultural implements. Mr. Tate is an active and progressive young man, being highly respected where known. He is a stanch republican and a member of lodge No. 502, F. & A. M., also lodge No. 577, I. O. O. E. He was united in marriage, December 29, 1881, with Miss Forest R. Ayers, of Paulding, though born in Putnam county, Ohio, in 1859, the daughter of Dr. H. M. Ayers. Two children blessed this union, Lyle and Eveline Nulton. Mr, and Mrs. Tate are members of the Presbyterian church.

Levi R. Thompson, of the firm of Huston & Thompson, mine host of the Thompson house, also proprietor of the Paulding feed store on Perry street, was born at Zanesfield, Ohio, October 14, 1858, and was reared to manhood in his native town. He had the advantages of the common schools, and, during vacations worked upon the farm, At the age of thirteen he became self-supporting, by practicing economy and industry. He was reared in a hotel, and, from early manhood, naturally drifted in this channel, as hotel clerk in a number of good hotels. In 1879 he came to Paulding, and six months later found him at Deshler, Ohio, as an affable hotel clerk, for eighteen months, when he returned to Paulding, engaging in the restaurant business with his brother, S. M. Thompson. In the spring of 1881 he sold out his interest, and returned to Zanesfield, remaining with his mother until her death, then soon after returned to Paulding, where he and his brother Frank engaged in the restaurant business, which proved a successful venture, and a progressive business firm of Paulding. Mr. Thompson continued in this business until 1889, when he sold, and engaged in the stock business, making a specialty of horses, he owning several speeders in connection with his large brood barn that he conducted for two years. In the fall of 1890 he became a member of the firm of Huston & Thompson, proprietors of the Thompson house. Mr. Thompson is one of the progressive and enterprising young men of the county, and is highly respected where known. Politically, Mr. Thompson is a republican, and a member of the K. of P. lodge at Paulding. He was united in marriage, September 22, 1885, with Miss Jessie E. Hixson, of Antwerp, Ohio, and daughter of Dr. D. W. Hixson, wlo was one of the leading physicians of the county. Mrs. Thompson is a native of Marshall county, Ind., born July 3, 1861. She is finely educated, and for years taught in the public schools of the county. One daughter blessed this union, viz.: Ruth Ray, born June 27, 1886. Mrs. Thompson is a worthy member of the M. E. church.