Licking Township (part 38 of 42)

As stated, James Smith Stevens and Julia Penn were married at Utica November 2, 1843, and soon afterward removed to Roundhead, Ohio, where their eldest daughter, Maria, was born in 1844, her death occurring in Utica in 1847. Their second daughter, Louise, born in Roundhead in 1846, is the wife of Charles Augustus Berlt, of Utica. Allie R., born in Utica in 1848, is now Mrs. Alsdorf. Clara Ellen died in Utica in 1869, at the age of twenty years. George Walter was born in Utica in 1851. Ida May, born in 1854, married Oscar Cary Mehurin, of Newark, Ohio, now deceased. James Penn, born in Mansfield, Ohio, in 18">7, died in Utica in 1860. Of this famillv, George W. Stevens lias attained to more than local fame, being now president of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway System. In February, 1864, he entered the service of the Baltimore & Ohio at Utica as messenger boy and later became agent's clerk and operator. Jn 1870 he entered the service of the Pittsburg, Columbus, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railway, acting as agent, later as train dispatcher's assistant and then train dispatcher. In 1 S 7 : 5 he became dispatcher for the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railway Company, was later chief dispatcher and then was made superintendent of the Ohio & Indiana division, while two years later lie became superintendent of the eastern division of the same road. The excellent executive ability which he displayed resulted in his being made assistant general superintendent of the Wabash Road in 1887. On January 1, 1890, he was appointed general superintendent of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad and in July, 1891, became general manager. He stands today as one of the foremost representatives of railway interests in the country, having since January, 1900, been president of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. He lias been greatly interested in the work of the Young Men's Christian Association, promoting it through personal means and influence as well as by securing the powerful influence of the road in the establishment of no less than eight organizations, the management of the road paying the salaries of the association secretaries at these points, realizing the great benefits accruing in many ways from this work for their employes. George W. Stevens married Miss Virginia Wilson, of Logansport, Indiana, in 1881, and they have four children. The mother died at their country home, Virginia Manor, near Glasgow, Virginia, in August, 190L James S. Stevens, the father of this family, died in Mansfield, Ohio, January 21, 18.19. aged thirty-seven and a half years - a brief life surely, but one of great honor among his fellowmen because of his genial, kindly ways; unselfish practice of the golden rule, and earnest Christian character which made him universally liked and respected by all. His loss was mourned not only by his family and many friends at Utica, Mansfield and elsewhere, but also by the Methodist Sabbath school of Mansfield, of which he was superintendent, and which testified their appreciation of his worth bv marching in a body to the station when the train conveyed his remains to Utica for burial. He was the organizer of the First Methodist Episcopal church Sabbath school in Utica, was its first superintendent and was ever active in the work of the church. Following her husband's death, Mrs. Stevens remained in TTtica until she, too, was called to the home beyond. On the 26th of March, 1909, she celebrated her eighty-ninth birthday at Utica, in company with three of her children and two grandchildren. The dinner was served on President Steven's private car, which had been brought here for that purpose. One week later, however, she was taken ill and died at her home on the 12th of April, crowned with years and honored by all. She was laid to rest, with the loved ones gone before, on April 14, 1909, in the beautiful village cemetery.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Alsdorf has been blessed by the presence of six sons and one daughter: Fannie Louise, who died of diphtheria in 1880, when about three years of age; Albert S., who also fell a victim to that dread disease and passed away in 1879, when a little over five years old; Frederick C., who is engaged in important copper mining transactions in Arizona ; Percy R., who is proprietor of the Standard assaying office of Central City, Colorauo; Robert Ctyde, who is employed as draughtsman with the Standard Steel Car Works of Butler, Pennsylvania; Arthur K., clerk at the Baltimore & Ohio station at Utica; and George W., who is in his second year at the Ohio State University.

Such in brief is the life history of Robert B. Alsdorf, who for seventy years has lived in this county and is widely and favorably known. For more than forty years he and his wife have been members of the Presbyterian church and its teachings have constituted the guide and rule of his life. He has ever been an honorable, upright man and no history of Utica would be complete without the record of his life.

William K. Schwenk

William K. Sehwenk, who deals extensively in stock, making a specialty of dairy cows, is a native of Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Zieglerville, April 28, 1874. He comes of an old family of that county and the town of Sehwenk ville was named in their honor. His parents were Franklin and Hannah (Krause) Sehwenk, natives of Montgomery county, where Mrs. Sehwenk departed this life February 2, 1887, her husband now residing in Schwenkville. He has been engaged in raising and dealing in stock all his life, and his son, William K., acts as buyer and ships the stock to his father, who makes the sales. He exclusively controls the trade of that town and disposes on an average of six cars of dairy cows per week. He is an expert in judging that class of stock, having followed the occupation since he was twelve years of age. He reared the following children, namely: Elizabeth May, widow of William Bard, of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania; Aaron, of Norristown, that state; Frank, of Zieglerville, Pennsylvania; Susan, who resides in Pennsylvania; Hannah, deceased; and William K.

Until he was thirteen years of age William K. Sehwenk remained at home, in the meantime acquiring his education at the district schools, and then found employment on a farm, where he remained until he was twenty-one years old, at which age, in the year 1896, he went to Cadiz, Harrison county, Ohio, where he engaged in buying dairy cows. During the fall of the same year he came to Etna where he followed the same work during the summer season, spending the winters in his native county in the Keystone state until his marriage, when he located permanently in Etna. Since then in addition to farming he has continued to deal in stock on a large scale, buying and selling cows, horses, hogs and sheep, with especial attention given to dairy cows, and is the largest stock-buyer in this section of the county. He ships in the neighborhood of five hundred head of dairy cows annually, together with a great deal of poultry, particularly during the holiday season, and last Thanksgiving he disposed of a carload and also one at Christmas time. His horses are of the best breeds and every spring he ships two carloads or more to various parts of the country. He also handles fine cattle which he keeps in excellent condition. Mr. Sehwenk spares neither time nor money in securing and caring for his stock, and consequently is known in many states as a promi- nent dealer in horses and cattle. He owns a farm of fifty acres situated onehalf mile north of Etna on the Etna road, which he keeps under cultivation, and a home in the village, and in addition to his general farming and stock-raising interests he is a stockholder in the telephone, gas, and oil company, and several other prominent enterprises.

Mr. Schwenk was united in marriage with Miss Mary Amanda Flake, who was born in New Jersey, January 22, 1882, and went to Pennsylvania with her father, there remaining until her marriage. She is a daughter of Joseph and Anna (Deyer) Flake. The mother departed this life in 1886, in her native state - New Jersey - and the father now resides in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Schwenk have two children, namely: Eva, who was born December 23, 1902: and Frank, whose birth occurred June 1, 1906. Mr. Schwenk gives his support to the republican party and although he is not an active politician he uses his vote and influence during campaigns to further its interests. lie is numbered among the enterprising business men of the community and is held in high respect for hL industry and straightforwardness in transactions.

Frederick G. R1Ckly

Switzerland, land of the towering Alps, has given many worthy and industrious citizens to this country and among them are Jacob and Katherine (Garber ) Rickly, who were natives of Canton Berne, Switzerland, where they were born in the year 1796 and 1799, respectively. There they were united in marriage and on September 1, 1834, started for this country with three children, two of whom died on the voyage. They located in Baltimore, Fairfield county, Ohio, subsequently removing to a farm near Kirkersville, where he spent the remainder of his life in the pursuit of agriculture on thirty acres of land. Jacob Rickly departed this life in 1872 while his wife lived to be ninety-four years of age and entered into rest March 16, 1893, while living at the residence of her son in Kirkersville. They had nine children, namely: Mary and Jacob, who died in infancy while enroute to this country from their native land ; Emanuel, who was born in Switzerland and passed away here in his sixtieth year: Jacob, a resident of Kirkersville: John, who lives in Wood county, Ohio: Frederick G.: Mary, wife of Joseph Wells, of Missouri: Elizabeth, widow of A. Kemple, of Wood county, Ohio: and Caroline, deceased wife of Abram Frideger.

Frederick G. Rickly was born on a farm one mile west of Kirkersville, on the National pike, in Etna township, November 20, 1839, and here he always resided, engaging in general farming and stock-raising. His boyhood days were largely spent in the work of the fields and during the winter seasons he attended the district schools, where he acquired his education. He resided on the home farm with his parents until his marriage when he purchased a farm containing twenty-eight acres which he cultivated for twelve years, subsequently disposing of it and purchasing his present farm, which embraces fifty acres and lies east of St. Jacob's Reformed church. It is a highly improved tract of land, provided with substantial buildings, most of which he erected, and here he pursued general farming, engaging to some extent in stock-raising. His farm is well eared for and Mr. Rickly, being a practical agriculturist, making such study of his soil as enables him to advantageously place his crops, he has from year to year gleaned from his fields harvests far in excess of those reaped from farms of a greater acreage. During the Civil war Mr. Rickly answered his country's call to arms and in 1864 enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Hancock and, serving with the one-liundred-day men, was stationed on guard duty at Harper's Ferry.

In 1866 Mr. Rickly wedded Sarah Hagy, a native of Etna, Ohio, where her birth occurred on December 24, 1844, and where she had always resided. She is a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Miller) Hagy, and a sister of Squire S. E. Ilagy, a noted capitalist of this township. To Mr. and Mrs. Rickly have been born seven children, namely: Mary Katherine, whose birth occurred September 1, 1867, and who is the wife of Simon Smoke ; Josephine L., born March 25, 1869, the wife of Charles Ileimberger, of Etna township; Edward H., whose birth occurred August 29, 1871, and who resides with his wife, Edna (Rugg) Rickly, in Reynoldsburg; Emma F., born November 16, 1885, the wife of Peter Myers; William J., of Outville, Ohio, born March 29, 1882 ; Charles A., born February 16, 1885; and Roy Rex, whose birth occurred March 17, 1892. Mr. Rickly has been a republican in politics all his life and since he cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln has never seen cause to swerve from his party since he believes its principles to be in every sense adequate to maintain the permanent prosperity of the nation. He is a public-spirited man who has taken quite an interest in local affairs, having served in a number of township offices, among which are those of road supervisor and constable. He has also been a school director. He belongs to Baird Post, G. A. R., of Pataskala and is a member of St. Jacob's Reformed church, in which for many years he has been an elder. Mr. Rickly is a worthy representative of the citizenship of the county and his industry and upright character have stood him well in the battle of life and won him the respect and confidence of his neighbors.

Samuel S. Devenney

Samuel S. Devenney, engaged in general farming and the raising of shorthorn cattle, was born on the farm he now cultivates in McKean township, January 23, 1846. Here his family have been identified with the farming interests of this vicinity for the past eighty-five years. His father, John P. Devenney, was a native of Orange county, Virginia, where his birth occurred March 11, 1808, and his mother, Mrs. D. B. (Sheldon) Devenney, was a native of Southampton, Massachusetts, where she was born August 27, 1809. Mrs. Devenney came to this county in 1827 with her mother and Mr. Devenney located here in the year 1831. In this township the couple became acquainted and were united in bonds of matrimony in the year 1834. He was a tanner by occupation but after he left his native state he did not follow his trade but took up farming and in 1835 bought a tract of land here, which he cultivated and upon which he resided until tie: year 1842, when he disposed of the property and purchased the farm on which

Samuel S. Devenney now lives. The father departed this life in the year 1895 and his wife one year later, and they were both laid to rest in Granville cemetery. They were the parents of the following children: Warner C., of Granville, Ohio; Emma A., wife of John M. Robison, of the same place; Helen; and Samuel S.

The last named acquired his education in the district schools here, pursuing his studies at intervals in connection with his farm duties. After leaving school he remained on the home farm and after the death of his father assumed the entire management. This farm embraces two hundred and twenty-seven acres of highly improved land and has also upon it two producing gas wells. Aside from this tract he also owns sixty acres in Granville township and seventy-five acres in Liberty township, both of which constitute valuable farms and arc under cultivation. He engages in general farming and also makes a specialty of stock-raising, particularly shorthorn cattle and sheep. His premises are provided with every means for the successful pursuit of agriculture and his fields are made especially productive by the use of modern methods of fertilizing and a full line of modern farm machinery. He is recognized as one of the most substantial and prosperous farmers in the district.

Mr. Devenney gives his political support to the republican party and while he does not reach out after the preferment of office yet he does what lie can to secure the election of its candidates. He has allied himself with this party because, after candid deliberation, he has come to the conclusion that its principles are fully adequate and necessary in order to insure the financial balance and permanent peace of the commonwealth. He belongs to Center Star Lodge, No. 13, A. F. & A. M., and takes pride in recalling the fact that his father and grandfather were also prominent members of the Masonic order.

John W. Bretz

John W. Brctz, who is engaged in farming and stock-raising in LYiion township, Licking county, was born February 14, 1848, in Pleasant township, Fairfield county, Ohio, on a farm entered by his great-grandfather, John Bretz, in 1808, the latter having come from Germany in 1732 when eight years of age, locating with his parents and a brother, Jacob, in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. He removed from there to Pleasant township, Fairfield county, where lie purchased a quarter section of land for each of his twelve heirs, all of whom located upon their allotments. In recent years, however, their descendants have left their original tracts and migrated to different parts of Seneca and Wyandot counties, in this state. Among his children was Henry, the last-born, who operated the home farm upon which he departed this life in his seventy-sixth year, and he had one son, John, the father of the subject of this review, who inherited the homestead and engaged in general agriculture until his death which occurred in 1853. John Bretz, Sr., wedded Dina Musselman, a native of Pleasant township, Fairfield county, where she spent her entire life, and was a daughter of Jacob and Dinah Musselman. She departed this life in her sixty-sixth year. She was the mother of five daughters and six sons, among the latter being John W.

John W. Bretz was but five years of age when his father d^d. He remained upon the home farm for forty years, in the meantime taking an active part' in agricultural life. During his boyhood-days, availing himself of the educational advantages of the district schools and, being then married, he came to Union township, and located upon the farm he now cultivates, which contains one hundred and twenty-two acres of land. This finely cultivated farm is a mile and a half west of Hebron and it is here he engages in general farming and stock raising. The property is highly improved, provided with two excellent dwelling houses, a substantial barn and other outbuildings and, recently, he constructed a substantial cottage, which is now occupied by a tenant.

On April 25, 1870, Mr. Bretz wedded Christina Augusta Roads, whose birth occurred on the farm on which they now live, October 20, 1853, and here she has since resided with the exception of twelve years spent in Fairfield county. Her great-grandfather, John Roads, was born in 1760, and lived to the age of sixtvfive. His son, Abraham, born in Virginia, in 1787, removed to Ohio with his wife, Anna (Beaver) Roads, in 1810, settling upon the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch, and here they departed this life in 1836 and 1866, respectively, he having been forty-nine years of age while his wife was in her seventyninth year. They reared a family of eight children, among whom was Joseph Roads, who was born in 1815 and wredded Nancy Moore, April 26, 1838, her birth having occurred December 9, 1818. They reared a family of seven daughters and one son, the latter having departed this life in his sixth year, while all of the former lived to be married and reared families. Joseph Roads entered into rest here June 8, 1900, and his wife on July 17, seven years later. Mr. and Mrs. Bretz are now living on the farm which they own and which her ancestors settled upon over a century ago, the primitive conditions which surrounded the premises in her great-grandfather's time having long since disappeared and the last of the old landmarks, a log cabin, in which Mrs. Bretz' father was born and reared, having been removed several years ago and supplanted by an elegant residence in which the couple now reside. Mr. Bretz is a democrat in politics and belongs to the Old-School Baptists, both he and his wife being members of the Hebron church of that denomination, in which Mr. Bretz has for a number of years officiated as deacon. He is a substantial farmer, industrious and enterprising and his straightforward life and the part he takes in the welfare of the community justly merits him the respect and confidence in which he is held by his fellow citizens.

John C. Neel

John C. Neel, who for many years has been connected with the farming interests of Union township and is one of the most prominent men in its financial circles, descends from a family, the members of which for over a century have been associated with the agricultural and stock raising enterprise of this state. His grandfather, James Neel, was a native of Pennsylvania and came from Lancaster county in 1803, to a town of that name in Fairfield county, this state, where for a number of years he plied his trade as a bricklayer and many residences and other buildings are now standing as evidences of his workmanship. Later lie removed to Perry county, where he engaged in farming until he departed this life in the year 1835. He was left an orphan at an early age and tradition has it that iiis parents, who were early settlers in the Keystone state, were there massacred bv the Indians. He was united in marriage three times and in all had a family of eighteen children. The maternal grandparents were pioneers of Walnut township. Fairfield county, and the subject of this review remembers hearing his grandmother relate the hardships endured while making a trip on horseback from that county to the state of Pennsylvania.

John C. Neel was horn on the old homestead in this township, near his present farm, on February 16, 1850, and was a son of Jonathan and Nancy H. (Cherry) Neel, his father having been a native of Thorn township, Perry county, where he was born January 14, 1819, and his mother of Walnut township and during their infancy both lost their parents. In the year 1844 soon after they were united in marriage, they located here and spent the remainder of their lives. Mr. Neel passed away in 1894, having survived his wife by twelve years, her death having occurred in February, 1882. He was one of the most prosperous farmers of this vicinity and tilled about three hundred acres of land upon which he had made all necessary improvements and, at the same time being a man who took a deep interest in public affairs, he served in the office of township trustee for a number of years. Being dutiful in the fulfillment of his religious obligations, he attended divine services at the Methodist Episcopal church, later affiliating himself with the Church of Christ, and was well known for his Christian conduct and integrity. In his family were four children, namely: Martha A., who passed away in her sixteenth year; John C. ; Lerov, who departed this life in 1881, leaving a widow and two sons; and Albert R., who entered into rest in 1903 and is survived by his widow and two daughters living in Hebron.

The district schools of this township afforded John C. Neel his preliminary education and subsequently he completed a scientific course at the Fairfield Union Academy, upon being graduated from which he became principal of the Hebron schools, in all having devoted twelve years to the profession. Giving up this early vocation he has since devoted his time and energy to farming. He has two hundred acres of land, all of which is thoroughly underlaid by a system of tile drainage, is under a high state of cultivation and on a portion of which there is a fine growth of timber. The attention to which he has given his farm has won it the reputation of being one of the most desirable in the county, particularly on account of its cxecellent drainage. Aside from engaging in general agriculture he also takes considerable interest in stock-raising, in which he does a fair shipping business throughout the state. He is also interested in other enterprises and is one of the original stock-holders of the Hebron Bank Company, of which he has been vice president since its organization.

On November 30, 1876, he wedded Susan Witmer, a native of Thorn township, Perry county, where her birth occurred December 7, 1856, and where she resided until the time of her marriage. She was a daughter of Solomon and Ann (Ritter) Witmer, her father being a native of that county, while her mother was horn in the Keystone state. To Mr. and Mrs. Neel have been born three children, namely: Elmer D. and Florence L., who reside with their parents; and Nellie

G., who became the wife of O. (). Rutledge, now residing in Newark, the couple having one child, Lillian F. The principles of the democratic party have always strongly appealed to Mr. Neel as embodying those policies the observance of which will maintain the nation's institutions untarnished by the inhospitable hand of imperialism, and which will perpetuate that full measure of individual liberty to obtain which our forefathers sacrificed their lives in order that they might found a free government, under which personal rights would be respected and ambition sustained by worthy competition, which is the life of trade, the means of distributing wealth and hence, of enabling all to participate in the blessings of prosperity. Consequently, he has always been loyal to his party, and during elections is always ready with his vote and influence to secure the election of its candidates. Being as faithful to the perfoimance of his religious obligations as in the care of his business interests he regularly attends divine services at the church of that denomination of Christians known as the Disciples of Christ, with which he has been afliliated for thiitv-six years and of which he is a trustee. Mr. Neel is well known throughout the township, not only as an industrious citizen but also as a man of upright character, whose aim has always been to do what he could, not only to better the financial conditions of the community but also to contribute to its moral and spiritual uplift and, therefore, he is a valuable asset to the township and enjoys the respect and confidence of his neighbors.

William C. Montgomery

William C. Montgomery, residing in Johnstown, owns and operates a good farm in Liberty township. He is also numbered among the veterans of the Civil war that Licking county furnished to the LTnion. He was born in Liberty township, March 23, 1840, a son of Samuel and Mary (Seymour) Montgomery, who were natives of this county, their ancestors having come from the state of Virginia at an early day. The father followed agricultural pursuits all his life and was a man of acknowledged integrity and sterling qualities of character, who exerted a wide influence for good throughout the county.

On his father's farm William C. Montgomery was reared, assisting in the general farm work during the summer and acquiring his education at the district schools in the winter season. Remaining at home until the outbreak of the Civil war, at the call of President Lincoln for troops, he enlisted in Company B, Seventysixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, on October 31, 1861, and served with his regiment throughout all the engagements in which it participated. He was present at Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Arkansas Post, Vicksburg, Chickasaw, Jacksonville, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. During his military career he was advanced to color sergeant, commanded the color guard, and at the battle of Ringgold, Georgia, on November 27, 1863, while carrying the company's flag, he was shot through the right arm and in that engagement the fire was so turned upon the color guard that seven of the eight men were severely wounded within a few moments after the battle commenced. Mr. Montgomery's wound was so serious that the field surgeons were compelled to amputate his right arm at the shoulder.

When able to leave the hospital he was furloughed and the government carried him on its payroll until the expiration of his three years' enlistment, when he was mustered out with his regiment and given an honorable discharge. A tribute to his bravery and meritorious service in the shape of a gold medal suitably engraved is very highly prized by Mr. Montgomery and it was presented to him by the surviving officers and members of his regiment at the close of the war.

After leaving the army he engaged in general merchandising at Wharton, Wyandotte county, Ohio, where he remained for one year and then returned to Liberty township, where he engaged in farming. In 1896 he removed to Johnstown, where he makes his residence, at the same time, however, continuing to operate his farm, on which he engages in the production of general crops and pays some attention to stock-raising. In agricultural pursuits he has met with splendid success and from year to year his crops have been such that he is now in comfortable circumstances.

On November 29, 1864, Mr. Montgomery was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Rhodeback, a daughter of Joseph S. and Mary Ann (Willard) Rhodeback, both parents having come to Licking covinty from Pennsylvania in 1836, where the father for many years was a prominent agriculturist. To this union were born three children: Orin E., a well known farmer and stock-raiser of this township; Alberta M., who became the wife of John Crouse; and Louis B., who remains at home and assists his father in the duties of the farm. Mr. Montgomery gives his political support to the republican party to which he has always been loyal. He was assessor of this township for eight successive years and for a long period was an efficient member of the school board. He is not affiliated with any secret societies or fraternal organizations, nor has he allied himself with any church body, but, notwithstanding, he is always willing to lend support to any movement which, to any degree, might promote the public good. He is a zealous advocate of public improvement, especially good roads and superior school systems, and is always ready to further any measure for betterment in this direction. Acknowledged to be one of the most substantial citizens of the township, he is well liked by all who know him and his social qualities have won him the respect and confidence of his many friends.

Anthony Hunter

Among the well known and progressive citizens of Franklin, who spent long years in the active pursuit of agriculture and after having lived an exemplary life passed into the world of beyond was Anthony Hunter, who departed this life at the advanced age of seventy-eight years. He was one of the oldest and most widely known farmers of this county and moreover possessed many noble traits of character. He, indeed, lived a well spent life and will long be remembered by those who knew him. He was a native of Ireland and when twenty years of age emigrated to this country, and settled in New York city. There he remained for a period of five years when he came to this county, where he spent his remaining days in industriously pursuing his farm duties.

Mr. Hunter was one of a family of six children, namely: Angeline, Isaac, Mary Jane and Jonathon, all of whom are deceased; and Sarah Anne. When he was still in babyhood he lost his mother and was reared by an uncle and an aunt. With them he remained until he came to the new world, locating in New Y'ork city where, after having spent five years, he returned to Ireland with the intention of remaining there, but finally again longed for the liberty of American shores. Returning to the United States, he located in Licking county, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and thirty-nine acres which he held under cultivation until the time of his death.

On October 13, 1866, Mr. Hunter was united in marriage with Miss Samantha Eddington, a native of this county and daughter of A. and Mary (Oshol) Eddington. Her grandfathers were both soldiers in the Colonial army during the Revolutionary war and lost their lives during engagements. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter became parents of the following children: Matilda and Ella, deceased; Anthony; James, who is united in marriage to Miss Irene Yernillion and has one child, Evelyn; Mantie; and Frank, who is an agriculturist of Franklin township.

Mr. Hunter left one farm containing one hundred and thirty-nine acres and another embracing one hundred and fourteen acres. The latter is in Franklin township and is under cultivation by his sons, Frank and James, who do a general farming business with special attention given to sheep-raising. Both farms are highly improved and beside having upon them comfortable residences they are equipped with buildings, machinery and every convenience requisite to make farming a paying proposition under modern methods. In politics Mr. Hunter always gave his allegiance to the republican party by reason of the fact that after studiously investigating its principles he concluded that they were in every particular best suited to establish and maintain the nation's financial integrity and assure its prosperity. Throughout his life he was a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and, having been a consistent Christian and an exemplary character, his passing out of this life in March, 1902, was to him but the entering through the door way of that higher and grander existence in which he had placed his faith and hope. The memory of his beautiful character, aglow with love, sympathy and kindness, will long be cherished by those who knew him.

Howard E. Griffith

Howard E. Griffith, a farmer of McKean township whose enterprise is bringing him increasing prosperity, is now cultivating a farm which was settled by his ancestors more than a century ago. He was born here October 10, 1845, son of William R. and Margaret (Jones) Griffith. His father, a native of Pennsylvania, located in this county in the year 1810 and resided here until his death in 1890, at the advanced age of eighty-six years. He came to this state in its pioneer days and when he took 'hold of the property which his son is now cultivating, and which is as fine a piece of land for farming purposes as exists in the township, it presented a far different appearance than it wears today. Timber broke the view, and thick undergrowth prevented free passage, and upon the whole the land was in an unkempt and rough condition. It was only bv bard and incessant labor that he succeeded in converting it into the tillable fields which he left as an inheritance to his son. His wife, a native of Wales, came to this county with her parents at a very early date and lived here until her death, which occurred in 1902. She had three children : Francis, deceased ; Maria, wife of George Hankinson, of this county ; and Howard E.

Until he bad attained the age of eighteen years Howard E. Griffith remained under the parental roof, during which time he attended the district schools and assisted his father in the work of the farm. About that time the Civil war broke out and he enlisted in Company 1), Twenty Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which lie served as a private for one year, under General Steele, and was then honorably discharged at Fort Smith, Arkansas, at which time he returned to this county and settled on a farm. Leaving his duties as an agriculturist for a time he pursued a eouise of study in Denison College, and after having completed the course he spent four terms teaching school. Upon the death of his father he inherited the old homestead to which he returned and to which he has since been devoting his labors. The farm embraces seventy acres of rich soil, which by constant improvement is in the best possible condition for raising various kinds of grain. He has his place equipped with all kinds of machinery and every convenience necessary to make his work a paying proposition.

On January 21, 1876, Mr. Griffith wedded Miss Malinda J. Carris, a native of New York, who went to Lorain county, Ohio, at an early date. Her parents, who are both deceased, reared a family of four children besides Mrs. Griffith. Mr. and Mrs. Griffith are the parents of the following children: Paul, Maud. Gertrude, Herbert, Guy Leona and Stella. Leona is a graduate of the Granville high school and now a school teacher. Mr. Griffith is a supporter of the republican party, to the principles of which he has given careful study. He has rendered valuable services to the township as school director, in which office he officiated for several terms. Mr. Griffith is a Master Mason, a man of high moral character and is known throughout the county for his honesty and straightforwardness, as well as for his enterprise and industry. While his wife is an adherent of the Baptist church he is not allied with any particular religious body, but molding his life on the principles of Free Masonry, his is rather a religion of conduct.

F. Walter Smith

F. Walter Smith, a prominent and prosperous farmer of Monroe township, who has rendered many useful public services and whose industry and perseverance have made him one of the substantial men of the community, is a native of Jersey township, Licking county, where his birth occurred January 2d, 1856. Here he has spent the greater part of his life actively engaged in tilling the soil and raising stock in which, owing to his diligence and good management, he lias met with splendid success and has accumulated sufficient means with which not only t<> assure his own comfort but also to be a beneficial factor in the general worth of the community. His parents are Joseph and Mary (Gregory) Smith, his father being a son of Captain John B. Smith, a man of considerable wealth and influence and who came to this county from the state of Virginia at a very early day. Joseph Smith is a carpenter by trade and this occupation he followed for some time after locating here but eventually gave up his trade and turned his attention to agriculture. For many years he has followed this pursuit in connection with stock-raising and is well known throughout the township as an enterprising farmer and a man of strict honesty and character worth.

On his father's farm F. Walter Smith spent his boyhood and youth, in the meantime acquiring his education in the district schools of his native township, where he remained until he was twenty-three years of age, when he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Miller, daughter of Washington and Catherine (Cramer) Miller, of Monroe township. After his marriage he continued farming in Jersey township for twelve years, thence removing to Franklin county, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits for three years, at the expiration of which time he removed to Monroe township and settled on the farm he is now cultivating. His land is in excellent condition and since he took possession he has added many improvements including fences, barns and outbuildings, which have greatly enhanced the value of the property. His soil is very productive and Mr. Smith cultivates it by the most modern methods, so that from year to year he harvests large crops of hay, grain and other products. In addition to carrying on general farming he pays some attention to stock-raising and has a number of head of fine horses, sheep and cattle. He is a progressive farmer and through his industry and perseverance he keeps his tract of land, which consists of one hundred and twenty acres, in a high state of cultivation and endeavors through modern methods to make it produce its maximum yield, in which he has thus far been successful and throughout the township is recognized as among those who thoroughly understand the various phases of the enterprise.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith have eight children : Cecil, deceased, born January 13, 188*2; Floyd, whose birth occurred on January 7, 1884; Roxie, who was born July 11, 1886, and became the wife of Lester Piper ; Pearl, born January 4, 1888; Gale, who entered this life November 12, 1890; Dean, born February 12, 1895; Virgil, born June 5, two years later; and Arthur, the youngest child, whose birth occurred January 26, 1899. Mr. Smith is prominent in the affairs of Jersey township and served several years as a member of the school board and also as road supervisor. He gives his support to the republican .party and is active during campaigns in order to secure the election of its candidates. Fraternally he is connected with Johnstown Lodge, K. P.

Gilbert A. Clifton

Gilbert A. Clifton, who in his younger days was one of the most extensive stock breeders and dealers in Licking county, and who is at present engaged in that enterprise in connection with general farming in Etna township, was a native of Thomville, Perry county, Ohio, where he was born December 15, 1846, a son of James and Mary (Foster) Clifton, his father being a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and his mother of Thornville, both of whom passed away in Etna township, where they spent their declining years with their son, Gilbert A. The father was a saddler by trade and followed that oceiipation for many years in Thornville. They had two sons: Oliver P. and Gilbert A.

Gilbert A. Clifton remained under the parental roof, in the meantime acquiring his education at the district school, until fifteen years of age, when he enlisted, in the year 18G2, in Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, but after three months his parents had him recalled because of his youth. He gave up ambition for military honors for a while but later during the same year he again enlisted in the One Hundred and Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was a second time taken out of the ranks at Camp Mingo, after having been a soldier but one month. However, his ardor to carry the musket and assist in sustaining the honor of his country was by no means cooled by these reverses and a third time he enlisted during the same year in Company A, of the Ninth Ohio Cavalry, under Captain James Sims, and served until the close of the war. In addition to taking part in the siege of Nashville, Eousan's raid and the Atlanta campaign, he was detailed as a scout under General Kilpatrick, with whom he served in Georgia, the Carol inas and at Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He participated in the grand review at Washington, D. C., and was honorably discharged at Camp Chase, in Columbus, in September, 1865.

Upon returning to Perry county, he pursued a course of study in Pleasantville Academy and in the academy at Lebanon, Ohio, and then completed a scientific course in Granville College, after which he spent two years teaching school at Pickerington, Ohio, and five years in the schools of Etna. He then gave up this vocation and bought a farm, on which he began stock-raising, and in this enterprise became known throughout every state in the Union. He engaged in breeding and raising all kinds of cattle and at one time bought two thousand Texas ponies, which he sold in various parts of the country. He engaged in stock-raising on a large scale until two years ago when, upon losing his son, he curtailed his business and is now carrying on general farming, dealing but little in livestock. At one time he owned and cultivated over four hundred acres but, meeting with adversity, he was forced to sell off all but that which he now has under cultivation.

Mr. Clifton was united in marriage to Almeda Grable, a native of Etna township and daughter of Jonathan and Nancy Essex Grable. They had one child, Allen Benton, who passed away in 1906, at the age of thirty-two years, leaving his widow, Mrs. Lula (Egolf) Clifton, and two children, Charles and Margaret. On January 11, 1908, Mr. Clifton wedded Mary S. Parks, a native of this county and a daughter of James and Elizabeth Parks, natives of this county. Mrs. Parks departed this life in Indianapolis, Indiana, while her husband still survives and resides at Clifton, that state. Of their family of eight children, all are living but one.

As to his political convictions Mr. Clifton is a democrat, the only time lie withdrew his vote from that party being to vote for the late William McKinley. For nine years he was school examiner of the county, for six years county commissioner, and has also served as township clerk, assessor and trustee. He belongs to Lodge No. 404, A. F. & A. M., at Pataskala, being also a member of the chapter and commandery at Newark and the Scottish Bite, at Columbus, Ohio. He is likewise a member of the subordinate lodge and encampment of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Clifton, beside being an enterprising business man, of keen foresight and judgment, is also possessed of those high qualities of character which uphold religious thought and make for righteousness and is a stanch supporter of the Methodist Episcopal church, at the services of which he is a faithful worshiper. His career has in every respect been successful and, having made excellent use of his youthful energy and ability, he can now peacefully enjoy the fruits of his many years of activity.

John Klinck

John Klinck, a progressive farmer and extensive land owner of Union township, this county, was born in Buffalo, New York, September 13, 1843, having come to the state of Ohio with his parents during the fall of that year, locating in Carroll, Fairfield county. His parents were John G. and Julianne Dorothy (Ulmer) Klinck, natives of Wittenberg, Germany, who left their native land shortly after they had been married and came to Buffalo, New York, where they remained hut a brief period when they pursued their journey by canal to Millersport and thence to Carroll, Fairfield county, where Mr. Klinck was employed as lock tender until the death of his wife, which occurred October 9, 1846. He was again united in marriage and with his wife located in this township, where he pursued agriculture and stock-raising until he departed this life.

John Klinck was but seven years of age when he was brought by his father and stepmother to this place, prior to his fathers second marriage having been bound out, here and in the district schools he acquired his education, in the meantime learning the art of husbandry on his father's farm, upon which he has since remained. He owns one hundred and fifty-one acres of land, eighty acres of which is part of his father's original estate, and here he engages in general farming and stock-raising, and during his career as an agriculturist he has met with such success as to have enabled him to amass considerable means and property. He is an extensive landed proprietor in the city of Columbus, where he owns a number of valuable lots. While he has not made a specialty of any particular line he deals to some extent in stock-raising, in which he has been quite a buyer and shipper. He is of a mechanical turn-of-mind and this has greatly benefited him in his farm work, as his adroitness has enabled him to repair his own machinery and keep it in excellent condition, and as well to make many articles which have been useful about the farm.

On March 9, 1875, he was united in marriage to Miss Olive Alvernon Ricketts, a native of Fairfield county, whose birth occurred near Pickerington on March 15, 1854, and a daughter of William S. and Eliza (Harmon) Ricketts. In tlieir family were six children, namely: James II., who resides in Millersport, Fairfield county; Emma T., wife of Dallas Jeffries, the couple living in Mercer county; Olive Alverson; Bruce, who departed this life in his thirty-first year; Ida, who became the wife of Perry Klinck, a half brother of John Klinck; and Mabel E., wife of L. H. Soliday, of Franklin county. To Mr. and Mrs. Klinck have been born: Eliza Fav, wife of Ferry Van Trovinger, the couple residing in Crestline, this state; William J., at home; Roy C., who wedded Mary Kagy. the couple living in Newark, this state; Page T., who departed this life in his twelfth year; Carl E., who also resides with his parents; Emma Grace, who became the wife of Raymond Cunningham, the couple residing in Newark, this state; Hazel Dell, who passed away in infancy; and Ira M. and Pearl H.. who live with their parents. Mr. Klinek also has five grand-children. The principles of the democratic party, in the opinion of Mr. Klinek, embody those policies the observance of which will maintain the nation's institutions untarnished by the tyranny of imperialism, and perpetuate that full measure of individual liberty for which our forefathers sacrificed their lives to the end that they might establish a free government under the laws of which individual rights would he regarded inviolable and ambition sustained by healthy competition, which gives impetus to industry, trade and commerce, distributes wealth and enables all to participate in the blessings of prosperity, and consequently, he has always been an ardent supporter of democracy and has done all in his power during elections to put into office the candidates of his party. He has always manifested a deep interest in local affairs and has served efficiently in a number of minor offices, and being a man of excellent moral character and one who is recognized throughout the township for his industry and aggressiveness, lie is accounted among the community's most highly respected and representative citizens.

Ric Hard S. Sigler

Among the representative citizens and agriculturists of Franklin township is Richard 8. Sigler, who for a number of years followed the occupation of wagonmaking, previous to taking up farm work. He is of sturdy German extraction and the name was originally Zigler but in course of time was changed to its present form. The Sigler family have been residents of this county for many years and in fact were among its early pioneers, the paternal grandfather, John Sigler, who was born in Loudoun county, Virginia, having located here when a young man. When he came to these parts the region presented a radically different appearance from what it does today. There were no farms ready for cultivation, the entire territory being in timber land and strewn with underbrush. However, Mr. Sigler, being of that sturdy German type which has done so much to develop the farming regions of this country, was undaunted before the difficulties which confronted him and after hard labor, reinforced with patience and perseverance, he succeeded in clearing off the land and putting it in condition for cultivation. He spent his entire life in this section, where he was finally laid to rest. The parents of Richard S. Sigler were Jacob and Jane A. (Inlerv) Sigler. The nativity of his father occurred in Franklin township, where he lived throughout his entire life with the exception of five years spent in Boone county, Iowa. He engaged in general farming and through his enterprise and industry became one of the most successful agriculturists in the vicinity and established a wide reputation for honesty and straightforward dealing. Throughout the entire county the Siglers have been noted for their integrity and incessant business activity and have been numbered among the most progressive citizens of the community. The members of the family were not only diligent and ambitious to succeed but also possessed many laudable traits of character and sought, by modest and temperate lives, to exert the highest possible moral influence in the community. Jacob Sigler met with an accident by a falling limb which caused his death in the year 1874 and his remains were interred in the Ellis Chapel cemetery in this township. The accident occurred when he was entering a camp-meeting ground, where it was his intention to engage in religious services. His wife was a native of Ohio, spending most of her life in Licking county. When quite young she accompanied her parents to Franklin township, this county, and here remained until her death in 1883, when she was interred in Ellis Chapel cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Sigler had the following children: Jessie, deceased: Lavina, wife of William Waldorf, who is a farmer of Boone

Richard S. Sigler, who was born in Franklin township, January 16, 1836. -acquired his education in the old log sehoolhouse, which is still retained in the memory of those of his day and, having completed the course of study there, he remained on the home farm, engaging in its daily tasks until he was twenty-four vears of age. He then gave up agriculture for a while and served an apprenticeship as a wagon-maker and, after becoming a journeyman, he followed the occupation for a period of twenty years, and then returned to the occupation of farming. He owns one hundred and sixty-five acres of land, all of which is highly-improved and in a fine condition for cultivation. Here he has, together with his residence, all the necessary buildings and machinery required to make agriculture a paying proposition and to conduct it along modern methods. He engages in general farming and at the same time takes some interest in the breeding of fine cattle, especially Jersey cows.

On December 18, 186*4 Mr. Sigler was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth A. Irwin, who was born on the farm on which she now resides. Her parents were James B. and Mary (Swern) Irwin. Her father, a native of Maryland, came to this county with his people when he was three years of age and remained here until he departed this life in 1873, when his remains were interred in Pleasant cemetery, Madison township. Mrs. Sigler's grandfather was also a native of Maryland, where he passed away in the year 1861. Her mother was a native of Virginia, who came to Licking county with her people, pursuing the long and tiresome journey in wagons. In this county she was married and passed away on March 1, 1890. She had the following children: Elizabeth: Caroline, deceased: George AY., who resides near Alexander, Ohio; and John P., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Sigler had a family of four children: James F., who is a professor in a polytechnic school located in Fort AYorth, Texas: J. E., who is a farmer and butcher, near Newark; Orren E., at home: and Rose Mary, deceased.

Mr. Sigler is of a religious turn of mind and deems it the first and noblest duty of man to acknowledge his allegiance to God upon all occasions and in every walk of life, and consequently lie has ever been enthusiastic in religious work and has always endeavored to live an exemplary life and do all in his power to promote the spiritual welfare of the community. He is a consistent Christian and a faithful member of the Methodist Protestant church, in which for a number of years he served as superintendent of the Sunday school and as steward and trustee. He is a man whose religion is not one of word alone but chiefly one of deed and in his long and useful life has abundantly manifested his practical belief in the scriptural teaching, "Faith without works is dead." In politics Mr. Sigler gives his support to the democratic party. For a period of twenty years he has served as township clerk and has also served as township trustee and member of the school board. He is affiliated with the Eed Men. An enterprising, industrious and honorable life and stable qualities of character have won him the respect and esteem of all who know him.

Perry Klinek, who was born and reared on the farm which he now cultivates in Union township, this county, descended from a family the members of which for over a century have been identified with the agricultural and stock-raising interests of the state of Ohio. His maternal grandmother, Lea Tumbleson, was a native of the Keystone state and went to Fairfield county in 1790 when she was nine years of age, making the long and tedious journey on a pack-saddle, and with her parents located about one mile from Carroll. Their nearest mill and trading point in those days was at Zanesville, which was about fifty miles from their farm. She wedded Edward Wisely, a native of the place in which they located, his birth having occurred September 20, 1782. He spent his entire life on the farm on which he was born and married, and his death took place July 20, 1833, the illness with which he was afflicted being cholera, his daughter-in-law having been taken with the same malady. At the time of his death he was a foreman in the construction of the Ohio canal, then under way. In his family were ten daughters and four sons, and at his death the entire family was left to be supported by his widow. The children with one exception lived to maturity, the last-born dying when but three years of age. The remaining ones were all united in marriage, excepting one, who passed away shortly before the day on which her contemplated marriage was to take place and was buried in her wedding garments. Although their mother could neither read nor write she transacted the alTairs of a large farm and kept her children around her until her death, which occurred July 14, 1866, when she was past the age of seventy-six years.

Perry Klinek was born on his present farm February 15, 1855, a son of John G. and Mary (Wisely) Klinek. His father was a native of Wittenberg, Germany, where his birth occurred April 29, 1812, he having been the oldest of nine children and the first to come to the new world, but was subsequently joined bv two brothers and one sister. He had twice been united in marriage, his first marriage having occurred in his native land to Julianne Dorothy Ulmer, on March 2, 1840, and immediately afterward they left the fatherland for America, settling near Carroll, Fairfield county, this state, where she departed this life October 9, 1846, when in her twenty-seventh year, leaving four children, namely: Caroline, who passed away on this farm October 23, 1861, when eighteen years of age, shortly before the day set for her marriage and she was laid to rest in her wedding clothes:

John, who cultivates part of the old home farm in this township; Edward, who departed this life, leaving, his widow and four children; and Jacob, deceased. Mr. Ivlinck's second wife, Mary Wisely, was born in Carroll, Fairfield county, this state, March 31, 1812, and entered into rest October 16, 1876, leaving her husband and one child, Perry. She had been twice united in marriage, the first time to a cousin, William Patterson Wisely, in February, 1833, who passed away August 21, 1831. She was the fourth-horn among fifteen children, and among her brothers and sisters who came to this country from Germany were: Matthew, who passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana; Thomas, who departed this life in Winchester, that state; and Caroline, who became the wife of J. C. Smith, the builder of the state house at Indianapolis, Indiana. J. C. Smith still lives, but his wife died in 1906. The elder Mr. Klinck purchased the farm now owned by his son, Perry, in 1818, and resided there all his life, with the exception of three years spent on the adjoining farm, which was the property of his mother-in-law. At the time of his death he owned three hundred and twenty-five acres of highly-improved land, to which he had given much attention and brought to a high state of cultivation. He was well-known throughout the county as an aggressive citizen and also for his upright life, and held membership in the Presbyterian church at Kirkerville.

Perry Klinck was reared on his father's farm and under his instructions became familiar with the art of farming, and in the meantime attended the district schools where he acquired his education. Upon completing his studies he still remained under the parental roof engaging in general agriculture, and upon the death of his father inherited his interest and has since devoted his time to general farming and stock-raising. Of the original farm he owns and cultivates one hundred and ten acres, all of which is highly improved and provided with excellent buildings, including a modern home, which he built in 1877, and also a substantial barn and outbuildings. Mr. Klinck has always aimed at conducting his farming business upon modern principles and, consequently, he is a student of soils and has been quite successful in the adaptation of his crops whereby he has been remunerated by abundant yields of the various grains. The farm is one of the bestkept in the community, everything about the premises indicating thrift and progress, and as regards his live-stock, while he does not engage in breeding on a large scale has a number of as fine specimens of cattle and sheep as can be produced in the township.

On July 3, 1878, he wedded Ida M. Ricketts, a native of Liberty township, Fairfield county, where her birth occurred January 26, 1863. She was a daughter of William S. and Eliza Harmon Ricketts, her father having been born in Pickerington, Fairfield county, Ohio, and her mother in Orangeville, Pennsylvania, both having departed this life in Liberty township, Fairfield county, having reared a family of four daughters and two sons. To Mr. and Mrs. Klinck have been born two daughters. Vera Myrtle, whose birth occurred May 21, 1883, became the wife of Spurgeon H. Applegate, of Grayson, Virginia, a son of the Rev. G. W. and Mary Lucretia (de Bord) Applegate, of Charleston, West Virginia. Rev. and Mrs. Applegate are now residing in Newark, the former being pastor of the Woodside Presbyterian church. Mr. and Mrs. Spurgeon H. Applegate likewise make their home in Newark, Ohio, and have one child, Mabel Maxine, who was born in Newark, June 11, 1908. Mabel Alvernan, the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs.

Klinck, was born November 1, 1889, and resides with her parents. Believing that the principles of the republican party are the results of years of practical experience in the management of the nation's affairs and represent the political wisdom of the country's most economical thinkers and able statesmen, and that their worth is evident in the impetus their adoption has given to commerce and industry, advancing the nation's interests and developing its natural resources to the welfare of the individual and of the country at large, Mr. Klinck has always voted the republican ticket and has been loyal to these principles of the party. He belongs to a lodge of the Masonic order meeting at Millersport, and has been a member of a lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, meeting at Kirkersville, since January 1, 1876. Mr. Klinck is a man who always finds time for the fulfillment of his religious obligations, which he considers of the greatest import in life, and attends divine services at the Fletchers Chapel of the Methodist Episcopal church, in Fairfield county, and is very active in the affairs of the several departments of the congregation. He is favorably known throughout the community as a man not only inspired with an aggressive spirit, but also as one who has always looked toward the moral and spiritual side of life, and hence, his conduct has always been such as to give him high standing in the community, as a man of moral worth and integrity.

Willis F. Taylor

Willis F. Taylor is the owner of an excellent farm of two hundred and eighteen acres of lieh and arable land, well improved and under a high state of cultivation. It indicates in its excellent appearance the careful supervision of the owner, who in all of his farm work is practical and progressive, utilizing means that lead to desirable results. A native son of the county, he was born in Burlington township, November 22, 1848, his parents being William and Mary J. (Foster) Taylor. The father was a native of Iowa but when a young man came to Ohio and died in 1898. The mother's people lived for many years in Liberty township, casting in their lot with the early settlers who aided in reclaiming that district for the uses of civilization. Mrs. Taylor died when her son Willis was but eleven years of age and the family was somewhat broken up. He had no special advantages or privileges to aid him in early life, yet learned lessons of value concerning industry and perseverance. He secured a liberal education in the country schools and when old enough to earn his own living found employment at farm work. He was thus engaged until he started in farm life on his own account. He has always carried on general agricultural pursuits and what he has accomplished represents the fit utilization of his innate powers and talents. He is a truly self-made man and one who deserves much credit for what he has undertaken and accomplished.

On the 11th of September, 1872, Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth M. Kasson, a daughter of Royal and Charlotte (Butt) Kasson. Her father died in July, 1908, but her mother is still living, lie was the owner of much country property and improved real estate, a man of extensive business interests and of wide influence. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Taylor lias been born a son, Ben K., who now has had several years of experience as representative of extensive paint manufacturers of the Pacific coast and in China and Japan. He is now, however, associated with his father in the management of the farming and stockraising interests. The Taylor farm consists of two hundred and eighteen acres of valuable and productive land, which is well improved and has been brought under a high state of cultivation. Substantial buildings have been erected and all modern equipments have been secured that constitute an element in the successful cultivation of the farm or in its general improvement. In the fall of 1908 Mr. Taylor retired and removed to Johnstown, purchasing a handsome residence, where the Taylor family now live.

Willis F. Taylor is, moreover, well known as a valued citizen of the community. He has for eight years acceptably served as a trustee of Monroe township and does all in his power to promote the welfare of his native county. Socially he is connected with Johnstown Lodge, K. P., and in politics is a democrat, believing firmly in the principles of the party. A man of distinctive character and high standing in the community, his opinions carry weight and his influence is an element in the welfare and development of this part of the state.

George W. Griffith

General agriculture and stock-raising have for many years engaged the attention of George AA7. Griffith of McKean township, whose birth occurred on the farm on which he now resides, September 28, 1817. He has spent his entire life on the place which for many years he has cultivated and is one of the oldest and most highly respected agriculturists in the county. His parents were John H. and Ann (Jones) Griffith. His father, a native of the Keystone state, came to this county in 1810 and at an auction sale bought the farm on which his son George AY. now resides, the land having been sold for non-payment of taxes. In that day the property was far from being in a fit state for cultivation as it was thickly covered with timber and undergrowth, much energy and hard labor being required to remove this before any of the land could be utilized for farming purposes. The first work which fell to the lot of John H. Griffith upon gaining possession of the land was that of constructing a small log cabin in which he lived for a number of years. On this farm he resided until 1849 and during the year when hundreds were travelling to California in sarch for gold he too became inspired with the idea that he might derive his fortune by mining, and repaired to that state, making the trip across the plains with an ox-team. However his hopes were never realized for in a few months after he had landed he took sick and departed this life in the year 1850. His wife lived in this county until she died in October, 1888. In their family were two children, Albert, deceased, and George AY.

On his fathers farm George AA7. Griffith was reared and the country at that time being sparsely settled he obviously received little education since the district school during his boyhood was far from being as adequate to serve educational needs as it is today. However, it later fell to his lot to attend the college at Gran- ville. He remained at home until lie was of age when he bought the old home and its surrounding one hundred acres, on which he has since been engaged in general agriculture, making a specialty of raising and feeding sheep. In this lie has been quite successful and lias done a large shipping business to various portions of Ohio and adjoining states.

On December 30, L874, Mr. Griffith was united in marriage to Miss Ella Woodard, a native of Granville, Ohio, where her birth occurred January 17. 18V2. and a daughter of Joseph and Sophia (Bowman) Woodard, both of whom were born in that place and have departed this life. Mrs. Griffith is one of a family of seven children and lias four children: Alice, who became the wife of Howard Butcher, of this county; Josephine, the wife of Ross Cheek, of Columbus, Ohio; Arthur ; and Myrtle M., who was graduated from the Granville high school and was married to Emery Hankinson April 7, 1909. Mr. Griffith is a member of that denomination known as the Disciples of Christ, while his wife and children are members of the Baptist church. He has always merited the respect and confidence of his neighbors and is in every respect one of the township's representative citizens.

Jonathan H. Egolf

Jonathan H. Egolf was a veteran of the Civil war, who for many years engaged in general merchandising in Etna township but for a period of nine years prior to his death, which occurred February 1, 1908, lived in retirement, confining his activity chiefly to looking after his farms and financial interests. He was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, September 13, 1832, and located in Licking county fifty-seven years ago. His parents, John and Mary (Horner) Egolf, spent their lives in the Keystone state, where they had three daughters and five sons, who attained the age of maturity.

Jonathan Egolf, the first born, acquired his education in the district schools of his native county and when twenty years of age came to Etna, Ohio, where he was employed as a clerk in a general store, the proprietor of which was Charles Elliott. He remained there until July, 1863, when he enlisted in Company E. Fifth Regiment of the Ohio National Guards, later joining Company D, Eightyeighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he served as sergeant until the close of the war, when he returned to Etna and engaged in general merchandising, which he followed greatly to his pecuniary advantage until the year 1891, when he disposed of the business to his son Harry H. and practically lived a retired life, doing little else than supervising his invested interests and looking after the affairs of his farms, one of which contains one hundred and thirty acres and adjoins Etna village and the other one hundred and sixty acres, in White county, Indiana. After selling his general store he opened a carriage and harness store and although he was not actively engaged in its management he held his interest until his death. Aside from owning many acres of farm land he also owned much town property, including the store building now used for the carriage and harness enterprise and me business premises and home occupied by his son.

On October 30, 1856, Mr. Egolf was united in marriage to Sarah Sliirey, a native of the Keystone state who passed away April 21, 1866, leaving her husband and the following children : Mary B., wife of J. D. Kilner, of Columbus, Ohio, by whom she has one son, Arthur D. ; Harry H., the present postmaster of Etna, who has one son, Paul; and Ella, who departed this life in infancy. His second marriage was to Rebecca Manger, in May, 1865, and she departed this life June 28, 1869. Mr. Egolf was then married, April 12, 1870, to Margaret R. Swisher, a native of Lima township, where her birth occurred September 11, 1847, and where she remained until fourteen years of age, when she removed to Columbus and lived until her marriage. She was a daughter of Philip and Cassandra (Hughes) Swisher, whose ancestry is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. The children of the third marriage are: J. Farris, of Springfield, Ohio; Lula May, widow of A. Benton Clifton, who has two children, Charles E. and Margaret N. ; and Charles F., of Cincinnati, who wedded Lena Ever.

Mr. Egolf was originally an adherent of the Lutheran faith but, upon locating in Etna, he became affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church in which he was an active worker. He was superintendent of the Sunday school for over twenty-five years and was a member of the building committee of the church which provided for and pushed to completion the present edifice. He was also a charter member of Evergreen lodge, I. 0. 0. F. For thirty years he served as postmaster of Etna and was treasurer of the school board and instrumental in securing the new school edifice. He was in every sense a man of excellent traits and qualities, profoundly religious, and his useful and exemplary life has left an impress upon the community which will give him an abiding place in the annals of the township.

George W. Beall

George W. Beall, who has large farming interests in Newark township, this county, was born in Franklin township, August 5, 1869, a son of William N. and Mary A. (Wells) Beall. The father, a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, came to this county with his family at an early date, locating in Hopewell township, where he bought two hundred acres of land which prosperity enabled him to increase from year to year until its annual harvests in the course of time enabled him to accumulate his present fortune. He has now retired from active business and resides with his wife at No. 202 West Locust street, Newark. Mr. Beall was twice wedded, first to Miss Harriett Campbell by whom he had eight children, and following the death of their mother Mr. Beall in Steubenville, Ohio, wedded Miss Mary A. Wells, a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, bv whom he has had two children, Maggie M., viio became the wife of A. E. Hoskinson, of Chatham, Ohio; and George W.

During his boyhood days George W. Beall wras employed upon his father's farm, in the meantime availing himself of the educational advantages of the neighboring school. Remaining at home with his father until the latter retired from active life, he then assumed the management of the farm, upon whicli he has since carried on general agricultural pursuits with the exception of eight years, the most of which time he was engaged in the farming implement business. He has always controlled the land in Franklin township, and besides this controls four hundred and fifteen acres of land, two hundred and thirteen acres of which is the property of his wife. While he pays considerable attention to the raising of general crops, he makes a specialty of stock-raising and feeding.

In 1893 Mr. Beall wedded Miss Mary Pearl Hirst, of Franklin township, to which union have been born four children, namely: Florence, Roy Arthur, Winona and John Rolla, all of whom reside at home, the oldest child being a pupil at St. Marys school at Columbus, Ohio. Politically Mr. Beall is loyal to the democratic party and being interested also to some extent in local politics he is now serving as a director of the school board. He belongs to Newark Lodge, No. 13, K. of P., and in company with his wife attends divine worship at the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Beall is one of the most prosperous farmers in this part of the township and his influence has been widely felt in upbuilding the business interests of the community.

R. F. Tyler

R. F. Tyler, who devotes his attention to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising in St. Albans township, was born on the farm he now has under cultivation, on September 15, 1858, a son of Foster and Martha (Alward) Tyler, his father being a native of Essex, Vermont, where his birth occurred July 5, 1820, and his mother of Lima township, this county, where she was born on January 20, 1826. Mr. Tyler was a son of Colonel George and Esther (Joslyn) Tyler. The former, a highly respected citizen of the community, departed this life in February, 1862, at the age of ninety-three years, while his wife passed away at the age of sixtv-nine. In company with his parents Foster Tyler came to this, county in October, locating in Granville. In the year 1840 he removed to a farm on Locust Street road, where he spent his remaining days, his death having occurred on February 9, 1892. His home farm consisted of one hundred and eighty-five acres, while in all, throughout the county, he owned four hundred acres and in addition possessed about the same number of acres in Washington and Wright counties, Iowa. In connection with general farming Mr. Tyler paid a great deal of attention to stock-raising. For many years he was an active democrat and a member of the township board of education. Mrs. Tvler, wife of Foster Tyler, was a daughter of Samuel D. and Maria (Buckland) Alward and the mother of the following children: Emma E., deceased, wife of Alfred I).

After acquiring his education in the district schools R. F. Tyler devoted bis time to agricultural pursuits on the farm where he has always resided, being the oldest continuous resident on Locust Street road. He has spent his entire life in cultivating his place, which consists of two hundred and ninety-five acres, located one and three-fourths miles west of Alexandria, the property being known as

Hickory Grove farm, on account of its hickory trees, a dozen or more of which surround his elegant eleven-room dwelling, which he built in the year 1893. In addition to this farm Mr. Tyler possesses one hundred acres adjoining the corporation limits of Pataskala, Lima township, where a tenant operates an extensive dairy business in partnership with Mr. Tyler, and seventy-seven acres known as the Big Spring Farm, north of Granville. The dairy business and horse-raising demand most of Mr. Tyler's attention and he has bred some excellent specimens of the animal for draft purposes, while at the same time he gives attention to hay and general grain crops.

On April 10, 1883, Mr. Tyler wedded Phoebe A. Jones, a daughter of Edward Jones, who was born February 2, 1863, and departed this life November 20, 1896, leaving her husband and three children, namely: Edward A., Foster and Ruby. On August 9, 1898, Mr. Tyler was united in marriage to Anna Jones, a second cousin of his former wife. She was born September 15, 1860, at Welsh Hills, Granville township, and was a daughter of Hiram I). and Elizabeth (Jones) Jones, natives of Oneida county, New York, where he was born December 25, 1829, and his wife, June 13, 1833. Both her parents were of Welsh extraction and located near Granville in 1837. Hiram Jones was a son of David R. and Susanna (Thomas) Jones, and departed this life in the year 1873 and Elizabeth Jones was a daughter of David and Gwenn Jones, and passed away April 23, 1896.

Mr. Tyler votes the democratic ticket and for several years has served as a member of the township board of education. He is a member of the Farmers Institute, in which he is deeply interested, and has officiated for two terms as president of that organization in Alexandria. He is attentive to his religious obligations and is a member of the Baptist church of Alexandria, of which organization he is a trustee. Mr. Tyler is a man of high moral character, considering foremost his religious duties and is held in high respect, both on account of his industry and exemplary life.

George Hankinson, an enterprising and successful agriculturist residing in McKean township, was born in Perry county, Ohio, December 26, 1844, his parents being Simeon and Susanna (Collingham) Hankinson, natives of New Jersey. The year 1836 witnessed their removal to Terry county, Ohio, and in 1854 they came to Licking county, here residing until the time of their demise. Unto this worthy couple were born eleven children, namely: Margaret, who is a resident of this county; Samuel, of Newton township; William, who is deceased; George, of this review; Joseph, who also makes his home in Licking county; Mary E., David and Simeon, all of whom have passed away ; Josiah, of this county ; John, living in Perry county, Ohio; and Titus, a resident of McKean township.

George Hankinson obtained a good, practical education in the public schools and remained under the parental roof until nineteen years of age, when he enlisted in the Union army as a member of Company C, Tenth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, with which he served for eighteen months. He accompanied Sherman on the celebrated march to the sea and also participated in a number of hotly contested engagements, being a brave and valiant defender of the cause which he espoused. After being honorably discharged at Cleveland, Ohio, he returned to Licking county and remained at home until the time of his marriage, in 1869, when he secured employment as a farm hand and was thus busily engaged for sixteen years. His wife then inherited a farm of seventy acres in McKean township, in the cultivation of which he has since been successfully engaged, the fields annually yielding golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.

As before stated, Mr. Hankinson was married in 1869, the ladv of his choice being Miss Maria L. Griffith, whose birth occurred in McKean township, March 10, 1814, her parents being William R. and Margaret (Jones) Griffith. The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother, who was born in Wales, was but a small child when she accompanied her parents on their emigration to the United States. Air. and Airs. Griffith, both of whom are now deceased, roared a family of three children. Our subject and his wife have no children of their own but adopted a daughter, Florence, who, with her husband, F. L. Courson, now resides on Mr. Hankinson's farm.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Hankinson has given his political allegiance to the republican party and has served as school director for six terms, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in G. A. R. Post, No. 704, and both he and his wife belong to the Christian church, in the work of which he is actively and helpfully interested, having served both as deacon and trustee. For more than a half century he has been a resident of this county and his fellow townsmen know that his life record has been characterized by fidelity to duty and by honor in all his relations with his fellowmen.

Harry H. Egolf

Harry II. Egolf, postmaster of Etna, has contributed extensively to the commercial interests of this place and is one of its enterprising and progressive citizens. He was born in Etna June 28, 1864, and he has always resided here. He was a son of Jonathan H. and Sarah (Shirey) Egolf, the former, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume, having been a native of Bucks county, Pennsylvania. Having located in Etna township when a young man, possessed of neither money nor influence, by his excellent business ability he became one of the leading business men and constructed several of the largest buildings. For many years he was engaged in the general merchandise business, in which he continued until a few years before he departed this life, his death occurring February 1, 1908. He had been united in marriage three times, his first marriage having been with Sarah Shirey, on October 30, 1856. She was a native of the Keystone state, passed away April 21, 1866, leaving the following children: Alary B., who is the wife of J. T). Kilner, of Columbus. Ohio, and has one son, Arthur T). : Harry IT..

of this review; and Ella, who departed this life in infancy. His second marriage was to Rebecca Manger, in May, 1865, and she departed this life June 28, 1869. Mr. Egolf was then united in marriage, on April 12, 1870, to Margaret R. Swisher, a native of Lima township, where her birth occurred September 11, 1817, and where she remained until fourteen years of age, when she removed to Columbus and lived until her marriage. She was a daughter of Philip and Cassandra (Hughes) Swisher, whose ancestry is mentioned on another page of this work. The children of this marriage were: J. Farris, of Springfield, Ohio; Lula May, who is the widow of A. Benton Clifton, and has two children, Charles E. and Margaret N.; and Charles F., of Cincinnati, who wedded Lena Eyer.

In the public schools of this township Harry H. Egolf received his education and, upon the completion of his studies, he undertook the cultivation of a farm owned by his father and followed agricultural pursuits for several years and then was employed in his fathers store. While in that position he displayed keen enterprise and business judgment and, in 1901 when his father retired from active commercial life, he bought out his interest and for the past twelve years has been in charge of the enterprise. He carries a full line of merchandise in which he is an extensive dealer and, since assuming the management of affairs he has, by his persevering efforts, so increased the volume of business that his establishment is now one of the largest of the kind in the county. In addition to managing his mercantile interests, he has also been the agent for the Ohio Electric Railroad Company since it was constructed.

Mr. Egolf was united in marriage to Hattie Warner, a native of this township and a daughter of Anson and Catherine (Levill) Warner. They have one son, Paul W., whose birth occurred here September 21, 1889. As a man of affairs, who is a power in the business life of the community, Mr. Egolf s merits are widely acknowledged, his excellent traits of character and straightforwardness having gained him great popularity, making him the choice of the people to officiate in the responsible capacity of postmaster for the past ten years. He is not affiliated with any secret or social organizations since his pressing business affairs require his undivided attention.

Captain Joseph T. Reynolds

Captain Joseph T. Reynolds, who made a brilliant record during the Civil war, and has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits in Lima township, this county, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, October 9, 1832, a son of Amos and Anne (Moore) Reynolds, his mother's birth having occurred on the Atlantic ocean while her parents were on the way from Ireland to the new world. In the city of Philadelphia she resided until she was married and her death occurred in Reynoldsburg, this state, in 1816, when she was in her thirty-fifth year. Her brother. Rev. James Moore, was a prominent Methodist Episcopal clergyman in Philadelphia. Amos Reynolds was a native of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and passed away in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, in 1861, being at that time about sixtythree years of age. While in his native state he was employed on the railroad, doing construction work, but after he had come to Ohio lie applied himself to farming and continued that pursuit the remainder of his days. He was twice united in marriage, the second time to Christiana Neiswander, and in all reared a family of eight children, six of whom were by his first wife: Joseph T. ; Mary Howard, deceased; James M., deceased; Mrs. Amanda McCray, of Kendallville, Indiana; John, of Laclede county, Missouri, who served in the Forty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the Civil war, having enlisted in Franklin county, this state; Mrs. Lettie Johnson, deceased; Mrs. Lydia Chamberlin, deceased; and Mrs. Ella Rinker, who resides in Newark.

Joseph T. Reynolds, in 1837, removed with his parents to Reynoldsburg, Franklin county, this state, and resided there with them until 1856, in the meantime acquiring his education in the district schools. During that year he went to California, via the Isthmus, and remained in the Golden State for three years, excepting about seven months spent on a tour through the British possessions, on which he traveled as far north as the Fraser river. While in California he spent his time in gold-mining and prospecting, at both of which he made quite a success, and in the fall of the year 1860 he returned to Franklin county. When the call came for troops to enlist in the fight for the maintenance of the Union, he joined Company F, First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, under Captain Cupp, September 25, 1861, and served in the Army of the West. He took part in the famous battle of Shiloh, and served under General Rosecrans throughout the campaign which terminated with the battle of Chickamauga and that of Missionary Ridge. Later he participated in the Atlanta campaign under General Sherman, and was in the Wilson raid after the capture of Atlanta. When Mr. Reynolds enlisted at Camp Chase he was detailed as a private but on account of his bravery during the service he was finally promoted to the rank of captain and during the last ten months of his service commanded Company M, of his regiment. He was mustered out on September 27, 1865, at Hilton Head, South Carolina, after a continuous service of four years and three days. During his military career the Captain witnessed much hard fighting, and on several occasions was commissioned to perform very dangerous tasks. On Sunday night before the battle of Shiloh he was asleep in his tent at Columbia, Tennessee, and about ten o'clock at night Captain Cupp awoke him and informed him that he had a despatch to be delivered to General Grant, who was located ninety miles up the Tennessee river, and that he wished him to carry the message. Captain Reynolds at once got himself ready for duty and, being instructed by his commanding officer to pick out a man to go with him and to select excellent horses, he attended to this and in a few minutes the two were in the saddle and ready to make the long and precarious journey. The last words which Colonel Smith delivered to them as they headed their horses up the Tennessee river were: "You are expected to deliver that message to General Grant's headquarters or leave vour dead bodies on the road." They started off on the trip with these words in mind and with the firm resolve to reach the headquarters of the commanding general at all hazards, and about ten o'clock the next morning they arrived at their destination, much the worse for the rough ride, were called into the presence of General Grant, delivered their message and were personally complimented by him for the task they had undertaken and the speed with which they had accomplished it. They were in peril all along the line from sharpshooters and almost all the way they traveled within fifty miles of the rebel pickets and passed through the enemy's line. It was considered a very hazardous ride, and at every moment the chances were against them, but both being brave-hearted and resolute they did not cower under the impending dangers but hastened onward as fast as their steeds could carry them, delivered their message and returned in safety to their own regiment.

After the war Captain Reynolds resided for about fifteen years in the neighborhood of Reynoldsburg, engaged in farming, and twenty-five years ago removed to Etna township, this county, where he remained for five years, at the termination of which time he secured his present farm, consisting of ninety-four acres. He has since been engaged in general farming and also carries on stock-raising on a small scale.

In March, 1866, Captain Reynolds wedded Amanda Myers, who was born in Lima township, October 9, 1840, a daughter of John and Nancy (Warner) Myers, her father a native of this county, where he departed this life, and her mother of Fairfield county, but passed away in Franklin county. Her father, Henry Warner, was originally from Virginia and was among the early pioneers of Ohio, locating at Leroy. Mrs. Reynolds is one of a family of six children, namely: Mrs. Mahala Scott; Mrs. Rebecca Bird, of Allen county; Amanda; Caroline, who departed this life in her seventeenth year; Henry, deceased; and Augustus, who died while serving in the Civil war, having enlisted from Franklin county in the Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds: James M., clerk of the courts, of Columbus, Ohio; Homer and Jessie, twins, the former residing with his parents and the latter living in Newark, with a brother; Nellie, who lives at home; Zettie, who also resides with her parents; and Alvali, a widower residing in Newark, with his daughters, Pansy and Dorothy.

The principles of the republican party have always appealed to Mr. Reynolds as embodying those policies best suited to give impetus to commerce and industry and subserve in the highest measure the nation's financial standing. Consequently he has always been loyal to his party and during election times has always given his vote and influence toward placing its candidates in office. He belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, and attends divine worship at the Methodist Episcopal church of Pataskala. He is a progressive agriculturist and in citizenship is as true and loyal to local and national interests as when he followed the old flag on southern battlefields.