Lorain City (part 30 of 77)

The flouring mill owned by I. S. Metcalf is located on Broad street, between West and Middle avenues, and was erected by Messrs. Chapman & Gibson. Mr. Metcalf purchased the property in 1874, paying therefor ten thousand dollars. It is driven by a forty horse power steam engine. There are two run of stones, and both custom and merchant milling are done.

Ashery And Soap Manufactory

, The former was put in operation in the fall of 1843, by N. B. Gates, and is still owned and operated by him. At the time it was established, large quantities of ashes could be procured from the settlers, who were clearing lands and burning log heaps. Black salts were also brought in in large quantities, which Mr. Gates converted into pearlash. Now the ashes are collected from the citizens, made from wood consumed in their dwellings. The location is on the west branch of the river near the railroad bridge. The making of pot and pearl ashes is still continued. The soap works were built in 1862, by Messrs. Clark & Cathcart. Mr. Gates purchased them in September, 1869, and manufactured chemical erasive soap, turning out ten tons per year, and an equal quantity of pot and pearl ashes. He has four thousand two hundred dollars invested, and employs four workmen.

Elyria Library

To the will of the lamented Charles Arthur Ely, executed March 19, 1856, was added a codicil, December 1, 1857, containing a bequest, by the provisions of which the executor was directed to convey to five well-known gentlemen (named in the will), trustees, the site of the present Library Block, and the building then standing thereon. The executor was also directed to pay to said trustees the sum of five thousand dollars, to be invested in books for immediate use, and the further sum of ten thousand dollars to be invested as a permanent fund, the income only of which was applicable to the use of the library. Mr. Ely died on the 30th of September, 1864; and the provisions of the will above mentioned were carried into effect by his administrator,

The trustees named in the will were: Dr. Norton S. Townshend, Heman Ely, Harwood M. Redington, George Olmstead and Prof. James Monroe, of Oberlin. Mr. Monroe declining to act, Hon. John C. Hale was appointed to fill the vacancy. They immediately entered upon their labors; the building above referred to was fitted up; two thousand volumes were purchased, and on April 1, 1870, the present very able librarian, Miss Nettie E. Wheeler, began the labor of arranging the books and preparing a catalogue; and on the 10th of the following June, the library was formally opened for the use of the public. 'The exercises were conducted at the court honse, and consisted of an address by the Hon. Norton 8. 'Townshend, and such other ceremonies as are usual on occasions of this kind.

In the disastrous fire which occurred on the 15th day of March, 1873, the building and library were consumed. Only three hundred and seventy-five books, out of four thousand volumes then in the library, were saved. There was a thousand dollars of insurance on the building, and from the avails of this and a small amount additional the present elegant building was erected. This was completed, and first occupied on May 11,1874. It was not opened to the public until the 25th of July following. There is at the present time a very choice collection of books, numbering six thousand volumes.

Banking Interests

Pursuant to an act ''to incorporate the State Bank of Ohio and other banking companies," passed February 24, 1845, the Lorain Bank, in Elyria, (the first in the county), was established on the 25th day of May, 1847, with a capital stock of one hundred thousand dollars. This was divided into one thousand shares of one hundred dollars each. On June 23,

1847, a meeting of the stockholders convened; Heman Ely was appointed chairman and Elijah DeWitt secretary. The next business was the election of a board of directors. This was done by ballot, and the fol- . lowing gentlemen were elected: Heman Ely, Elijah DeWitt, Enoch Clark, Artemas Beebe, Amasa Chapman, Conrad Reid, John B. Wilbor, Aaron Root and Heman Ely, Jr. The following officers were then elected: Heman Ely, president; Artemas Beebe, vicepresident; Elijah DeWitt, secretary; W. A. Adair, cashier, and Leyi Burnell, teller and book-keeper.

Having effected an organization, a banking house was opened in Room No. 3 of the Beebe House Block (now occupied by L. Taylor as a crockery store), and in this the business of the bank was transacted until January 1, 1875, when it was removed to its elegant rooms in the Ely Block (first floor of the library building). Mr. Ely resigned his position as president April 24, 1849, and Artemas Beebe was elected his successor, but declined the acceptance of the office, whereupon Elijah DeWitt was elected to the position, and is still the able incumbent of that office. On the date above given, the office of vice-president was discontinued.

The board of directors has suffered few changes, and remains substantially as at first organized. Mr. Adair resigned his position as cashier, December 4, 1849, which was accepted, and, on January 1, 1850, John R. Finn was elected to succeed him. Mr. Finn was elected vice-president of the State Bank of Ohio in 1855, and he resigned his position as cashier. Heman Ely was appointed cashier pro tem., and served until January 7, 1856, when the present incumbent of the office, Mr. John W. Hulburt, was elected. The bank continued to do a highly prosperous business until the year 1864, when, on April 2d, a meeting of the citizens was held, under the act of Congress to provide for a national currency, approved February 25, 1863, to take the preliminary steps toward organizing the First National Bank of Elyria. The subscribers to the stock of the new organization at this time were as follows:

The certificate of authorization was issued May 25, 1864. Subsequently directors were elected as follows: Artemas Beebe, Elijah De Witt, George G@. Washburn, Henry E. Mussey, Seymour W. Baldwin, and George R. Starr. Elijah De Witt was elected president and John W. Hulburt, cashier. In 1876 the office of vice president was created and Heman Ely was elected to fill the position. The directors for 1878, are Artemas Beebe, 8. W. Baldwin, William Jones, H. E. Mussey, George R. Starr, James M. Chapman, Elijah DeWitt, George G. Washburn, and Heman Ely. This bank has been conducted in the interest of the people and not in the interest of a ring or individuals. It has, from its inception, done an honorable and prudent business. 'The Bank Examiner speaks in terms highly commendatory of its management. THE Savines Dreposir BANK oF ExyriA, began business in November, 1878, with T'. L. Nelson, president; J. C. Hill, cashier; Hon. Sidney 8S. Warner, Hon. John OC. Hale, Hon. R. A. Horr, C. W. Horr, S. R. Laundon, Hon. W. W. Boynton, William A. Braman, John W. Hart, I. S. Metcalf, and Lorenzo Clark, directors. The board of investment, T. L. Nelson, J. C. Hill, William A. Braman, John C. Hale, and W. W. Boynton. The responsibility of this bank aggregates five hundred thousand dollars which is pledged and liable for the payment ef all debts and obligations of the bank.' The business is of a general nature. Thesavings department is designed to afford those who desire to save their money the means of employing it to advantage without incurring any risk

Mercantile History Of Elyria

Edmund West opened the first store in Elyria. Heman Ely (the founder of the township) was his partner, though he took no active part in conducting the business. Theodore W. Ely, from West Springfield, Mass., became a partner of Mr. West, June 1, 1825. Theodore W. Ely died May 2, 1826, at the age of twenty-three years. Mr. West died July 15, 1825, at the age of twenty-nine years. He was succeeded by Norris O. Stow, who associated with him Theodore W. Ely whose early death is above stated. Mr. Stow conducted the business until his death, which occurred on the 12th of April, 1830. He was succeeded by Addison Tracy and Phineas Johnson under the firm name of Tracy and Johnson, who conducted the business until 1832, when they became members of the Lorain Iron Company, and their stock of goods was removed to the company's store as part of its stock in trade. When the Lorain Iron Company suspended business, Isaac M. Johnson purchased their stock of goods, and continued in business but a year or two when he sold out to Thomas Wilcox and William M. Beebe, under the firm-name of Wilcox and Beebe. They in turn sold, in 1840, to Baldwin & Company. At an early period in the history of Elyria, probably in 1823 or '24, Stanton Sholes established a store in the building now occupied by Mr. Monroe, on the north side of Broad street, between Middle and East avenues. In two or three years he sold out to Thompson Miles, who soon after built a brick store at the northwest corner of Broad street and East avenue, where he transacted business until 1832, when, having secured a competence, he retired from business. About the year 1827, two brothers, Sheldon and C. B, Guthrie, established a store in a frame building on the north side of Broad street, about midway between Middle and East avenues. They continued in business for about three years. Sheldon Guthrie is now living in New Orleans. His brother, C. B. Guthrie, died recently in Washington City. Raymond Starr commenced trade in Elyria in 1828, and continued in business until 1835, when he retired. The brick building adjoining the one now occupied by the Zlyria

Horace K. Kenpauu. - This gentleman deserves more than a passing notice, for he revolutionized trade not only in Elyria, but to a great extent throughout Northern Ohio. He came from Suffield, Connecticut, to Elyria in the spring of 1832, and opened a store in the brick building erected by Captain Sylvanus Parmely, on the corner where the present Beebe House stands. The merchants of Elyria having been accustomed to sell goods to the farmers on credit, and as they expected to lose from thirty to fifty per cent., marked their prices on that basis. Mr. Kendall sold his goods only for cash, and fixed his prices very much lower than they had ever before been offered in this market. He soon had a rush of customers, and in a year or two built the large brick store on the north side of Broad street, now occupied by Hannan & Obits. He purchased all kinds of farmers' produce, paying cash; but most of it was left in the store in payment for goods. Soon trade flocked in, not only from the extreme parts of this county, but from Medina, Wayne and Cuyahoga counties, and Elyria became a center of trade.

He possessed a great deal of dash and enterprise, and was not afraid of the liberal use of printer's ink. He, for a considerable time, published a monthiy paper filled mostly with his advertisements, but containing in addition a great deal of miscellaneous and entertaining reading matter. This was distributed gratuitously, and eagerly sought for. His advertisements were striking, ingenious and amusing.

In the spring of 1842, Henry E. Mussey, who had long -been his confidential clerk, became associated with him in the business. Mr. Kendall had been for many years an active and influential member of the Baptist church, and contributed liberally towards the erection of their fine brick church building, which stands on the corner of Second street and Middle avenue.

Mr. Kendall died on the 4th of June, 1850, at the early age of forty-one years. He left a handsome fortune. In his death, Elyria and Lorain county sustained a great loss. After his death, Mr. Mussey, who associated with himself Hiram Fuller, conducted the business successfully until 1858, when they sold out to Seymour W. Baldwin, T. W. Laundon and 'F. L. Nelson, under the firm name of Baldwin, Laundon & Nelson. Mr. Mussey retired from mercantile business. Mr. Fuller removed to Akron, where he now resides.

Oz1as Lone. - This gentleman obtained the contract to build'the court house, in 1828, and started a store principally, it is believed, for the payment of his workmen. After completing his contract, he continued mercantile business successfully for several years. In 1833 or 1834, John M. Gillett, S. R. Darling and 8. B. Wolcott, under the firm name of Gillett, Darling & Wolcott, became his successors. Mr. Long was for six years one of the associate judges of the court of common pleas for Lorain county, and afterwards served as postmaster for the term of four years. Ile died February 21, 1859, aged sixty years. Gillett, Darling & Wolcott were his successors, and conducted the business for two or three years, when they sold out to William F. Church. After a year or two, Mr. Church remoyed his goods to Sullivan, when our present mayor, Nahum B. Gates, put in a stock of goods. THe sold out at the end of a year to Messrs. Castle & King, of Medina, and the goods were remoyed to that place.

A. Beebe, afterwards Beebe & Gates; Horatio N. Gates and Charles Green, Gates & Green; the Lorain Iron Company, Isaac M. Johnson, Thompson Miles, H. Guthrie, Raymond Starr and Ozias Long.

Ransom Redington, Erastus and Edwin Hall (E. & E. Hall), W. F. Church, H. K. Kendall & Co., S. W. Baldwin, Enoch Clark, Cowles and Ryder, Sanford and Andrews, Gillett, Darling & Wolcott, Andrews and Morse, Cowles, Merwin & Hull, Nichols & Knowles, and Henry Bush.

Srymour W. Batpwin. - In the fall of 1834, Orrin Cowles opened a store, under the firm of Baldwin & Cowles. 8S. W. Baldwin, the senior member of the firm, did not come to Elyria until the spring of 1835. They conducted a successful business until 1839, when the firm was dissolved, and Mr. Cowles opened a new store. Mr. Baldwin associated with him William M. Judd, and subsequently David B. Andrews, under the firm name of Baldwin & Co. In 1840, they bought out Wilcox & Beebe for the sake of getting the corner store. Soon after, D. B. Andrews left him, and was associated for afew years with F. B. Sanford (Sanford & Andrews). They dissolved, Sanfor1 continuing the business, and Andrews opened a new store, associating with himself Levi Morse. Cowles took for a partner Mr. Erastus Hall. Subsequently they dissolved, and Cowles associated with himself Oliver R. Ryder (Cowles & Ryder). Erastus Hall formed a co-partnership with his brother Edwin Hall (EK. & EK. Hall).

In the year 1840 or 1841, Mr. Baldwin formed a partnership with George R. and Horace C. Starr, under the firm name of Baldwin & Co. Subsequently they gave Thomas W. Laundon and Thomas L. Nelson an interest in the business, 'This firm did a very successful business until 1852, when Mr. Baldwin, having secured a competence, retired from the firm, and returned to his former home, in Meriden,

Connecticut. After three years' absence, Mr. Baldwin, having become tired of a life of inactivity, returned to Elyria in 1855, and renewed his partnership with Starr Brothers & Co. This continued for the limited term of three years, when Mr. Baldwin, associating with himself Messrs. Laundon and Nelson, purchased the stock of goods of Ilenry E. Mussey, and commenced business under the firm name of Baldwin, Laundon & Nelson. This firm was dissolyed in 1870, Mr. Nelson becoming president of the Elyria Deposit and Savings Bank.

Mr. T. W. Laundon lives a quiet, retired life, enjoying the fruits of many years of industry and enterprise. Soon after the dissolution of the firm, Mr. Baldwin made the tour of Europe with his son.

In the year 1858, 8. W. Baldwin, T. W. Laundon, S. K. Laundon, and T'. L. Nelson, formed a co-partnership and opened a store in Wellington which has done a very successful business and is still continued. It is conducted by Mr. 8. K. Laundon.

Of all the young men who were trained in the store of Mr, Baldwin and his partners it is believed not one has turned out badly. All of them occupy prominent positions in business and in society. his is due mainly to the fact that their morals were carefully gnarded and they acquired habits of industry and integrity. Many of them boarded with Mr. Baldwin, They were furnished with the best of reading matter and had no inclination to spend their evenings in idleness or on the streets. Mr. Baldwin has become wealthy and enjoys most fully the respect and confidence of the people of Elyria and of Lorain county.

Geroge R. Starr and Horace ©. Starr were clerks of S. W. Baldwin & Co. Their former business connection with him has been already stated. After the dissolution of the firm of Baldwin, Starr & Co. they associated with themselves Mr. John L. Cole and their brothers Frank and Alonzo Starr. The latter withdrew from the firm in three years, but Mr. Cole continued a member until 1872. They did a large business and enjoyed the friendship and esteem of the people to a remarkable degree. In the year 1873 their store and its entire contents were consumed by the disastrous fire which destroyed the entire block, containing some eight or ten business rooms. Their loss by this fire was fifty thousand dollars over and above their insurance. With their usual pluck they at once fitted up a store in the town hall, purchased a new stock of goods and again commenced business. They continued in business in the town hall for about a year, when, the new block being completed, they returned to their old quarters. Though greatly crippled by the fire they continued until February, 1878, when they retired. Few men, if any, have done as much to adorn and beautify our village, and none are more respected by its citizens and the people of the county.

Drug Srorres. - In 1832, Dr. John S. Matson opened a small drug store in the front room of his dwelling house. The same room contained also the postoffice. In a few years he put up a pretty large wooden store and greatly enlarged his business. About the year 1838 he added dry goods to his stock of drugs. In 1842 or 43, he removed to Cleveland, leaving his store in charge of his brother-in-law, Addison Tracy. He died soon after his removal, and Drs. E. W. Hubbard and L. D. Griswold purchased the stock of drugs, and conducted the business for a year or two when they sold out to Mr. John F. Wooster. Mr. Wooster soon associated with himself his brother. Mr. William F. Wooster, and soon after sold outto him. Mr. William F. Wooster still continues the business. He has been a very successful merchant, and has accumulated a handsome property.

Dr. EvisaAn DEWITT, in the year 1824, settled in Harrisvile, Medina county, and engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery. Hisride was extensive and laborious at that early day. In July, 1835, he re~ moved to Elyria and opened a drug store. He dida successful business in that time until 1852, when, haying been appointed secretary and treasurer of the Junction Rail Road, then being constructed, he left his drug store in charge of his son, R. C. DeWitt, who had for several years been his partner. He was for six years an associate judge of the county. In about a year the store was sold to Mr. Charles Arthur Ely, who in turn sold it to Messrs. Bagg & Jenkins, who after two years sold to Messrs. Redington & Jenkins. These gentlemen conducted the business for several years, when it again became the property of Mr. Ely, who sold it to Mr. Jerome Manville.

In the year 1850, Dr. Eber W. Hubbard established a drug store in the Beebe block. In 1852, Dr. Hubbard being about to remove to Staten Island, N. Y., sold his stock of drugs to Dr. L. D. Griswold and J. Manville. They continued in partnership about five years, when Dr. Griswold retired from the firm. Mr. Manville still continues the business and has been very successful.

GROCERIES AND Provisions. - H. Brush, Hoyle Brothers, McCullum & Lilly, Henry Wurst, W. H. Smith, J. A. Bean, George M. Haag, Frank Root, William Downing, Diedrich & Wiler, and J. C. King.

Books AND STATIONERY. - William §. Wilson. Mr. Wilson bought out E. C. Griswold, in 1877, who had successfully carried on the business for twenty-two years.

MisceLLANEous. - Wm. I. Hobill, music store; T. L. Taylor, crockery and glass ware. Jones & Moshier, and Jakob Stephen, bakery and groceries. Clark & Faxon, candy manufacturers and wholesale dealers, W. F. Burget, Upholsterer. J.B. Woolbridge, Marble Works. Geo. G. Washburn, Printer, Editor, and Publisher of the Elyria Republican. F. 8. Reefy, Editor and Publisher of the Hlyria Constitution. Ingersoll & Harris, Job Printers. G.R. Byford, Book-binder. Joseph Kelling, Flour and Feed Store. H. E. Mussey & Co., dealers in Building and Flagging Stone. Charles F. Lee, I, 8. Haines. and H. §. Williams, Photographers, John Mountain and W. Walker, Merchant Tailors. Miss A, Bayless, Mrs. L. E. Snell, H. L. Underwood, Mrs. C. M. Dake, and J. M. Cook & Co., Dressmakers. Snearer & Waldeck and P. A. Anderson, Undertakers. Andrus and J. Burdick, Livery.

TRADES AND SPECIALTIES. - A. F'. Parsons and Paul Krause, Carriage Painters. Allen & Holcomb, C. W. Goodspeed, R. W. Todd, Marvin Todd, and Paul Dumas, Sign and House Painters. C. W. Hunt, Carriage Trimmer. Abel Goodspeed and D. EB. Dengate, Wagon Makers. Ward & Maple, F. Gilbert, L, Wait, Hafner & Dachtler, and N. Wagoner & Sons, Blacksmiths.

Fire Department

To guard against the ravages of the firey element, has beer. the aim of every community. Elyria village has been taught this lesson by dire experience. Two extensive fires have prevailed, destroying, in both instances, the business part of the town. We are unable to give the losses, but they were very great. In the year 1839, a small hand fire engine was purchased, anid acompany of thirty men organized, under the name of the ''/itna Fire Company No. 1." S. W. Baldwin was foreman, and Samuel C. Goodwin, secretary and treasurer. This constituted the entire department until 1850, when another hand engine was purchased, and '' Phoenix Fire Company No. 2," consisting also of thirty members, was organized. About this time, the hook and ladder company, of thirty members, was also formed. The force was now considered an efficient one, until the memorable fifteenth of March, 1873, when it was demonstrated that it was wholly insufficient to cope with the conflagration. Immediately after this event, the common council procured a number two steam fire engine from the manufactory of the Messrs. Silsby, at Seneca Falls, New York, which, with two hose carts and one thousand feet of two and a half inch rubber hose cost six thousand, seven hundred and fifty dollars. The officers of this company are: John T'. Houghton, chief engineer; John Hufner, assistant engineer; Charles S. Bird, engineer; John M. Tite fireman. <«itna Hose Company " has thirty-five men; George Kline, foreman; Frank Stark, assistant. '(tna Fire water supply is ample, and consists of twenty reservoirs and two tanks. There is alsoa fancy hook and ladder company, which has a fine record. As at present organized, the fire department of Elyria is far above the average in efficiency.

Town Hall

This fine structure was erected jointly by the township and village of Elyria, in the year 1867, and cost, when completed, twenty-nine thousand dollars. An extensive addition was made to it in 1878, at an inyestment of seven thousand dollars. The upper floor is wholly occupied by an audience hall, stage, dressing and property rooms. The seating capacity is nearly one thousand. The first floor is vccupied by the fire department, mayor's office, lockup, etc.

FREE AND AccEPTED Masons. - King Solomon's Lodge No. 56, of this order, was granted a dispensation on Monday, the 13th day of December, A. D. 1819, with Heman Ely as W. M., Jabez Burrell, S. W., and John Reading, J. W. The charter was granted Decem' er 11, 1821, and the growth of this lodge was, from that time, very satisfactory, until the outbreak growing out of the Morgan excitement rendered it advisable to cease labor. This took place in 1828, and for twenty years there was no lodge in Elyria.

On the 26th of September, 1848, a new charter was issued, bearing on its face the names of Eber W. Hubbard, W. M., Ozias Long, S. W., and Ansel Keith, J. W., and from that time until the present, the order has been steadily gaining strength, until it has now a membership of one hundred and twelve. Their path has not, however, been always strewn with roses. In the extensive conflagration which prevailed in Elyria in 1852, the lodge room was consumed, and with it everything it contained. The records were at the house of the secretary, and were saved, but on the occasion of the second fire, in 1872, they were not so fortunate. Everything was, we believe, this time consumed. Truly they have been ''tried by fire," but, like the Phoenix, they have risen from the ashes, and by the aid of strong and willing hands, have now the finest lodge room in the county.

The stated communications are held at Masonic hall, in Commercial block, on the second and fourth Monday evenings of each month, from October 1 to May 1, and on the second Monday, only, the remainder of the year.

MARSHALL OnaArTER No, 47, was granted a dispensation on the 3d day of October, 1851, upon the petition of companions A. Clark, E. W. Hubbard, Ozias Long, M. Chapman, E, L. Warner, Wm. Hoyle,

John Sherman, F. Hubbard, and Elijah Parker. A. Clark was, by this instrument, made High Priest; EK. W. Hubbard, King; and Ozias Long, Scribe. We are unable to give any thing further of the early work.

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF OpD FELLOWS. - Elyria Lodge No. 103, of this order, was instituted on March 1, 1848, by E. W. Fitch, Deputy Grand Master, with the following charter members: N. B. Gates, P. Bliss, Russell J. Smith, Edwin A. Cowles, and E. D. Moxley. The officers on organization were: N. B. Gates, N. G.; E. A. Cowles, V. G.; E. D. Moxley,; P. and R Sec.; Russell J. Smith, Treas.

On the night of its institution, the following gentlemen were admitted: J. F. Manter, L. D. Griswold, L. C. Leonard, G. D. Hayward, O. N. Owens, B. F. Tillotson, B. F. Robinson and George E. Nichols; and on the anniversary, held thirty years subsequent, these persons were all living, and nearly all in good standing in the fraternity.

The officers for 1878 are: S. C. Cox, N. G.; James Lewis, V. G.; Charles Cox, P. S8.; Samuel A. Rawson, R. S.; Henry J. Eady, Treas. Present membership, one hundred and eight. Regular meeting, Tuesday evening of each week, in Odd Fellows Hall. This lodge is in a prosperous condition, with twenty-five

Kniauts or Pyrui1as. - Star Lodge, No. 81, was instituted on the 27th day of January, 1875, with the following gentlemen as charter members: John Gorman, Geo. D. Williams, William H. Laundon, J. OC. Potter, Otto Martin, John E. Kenyon, Samuel O, Cox, Nelson B. Jennings, W. 8. Lyons and ©. B. Spring. The first officers were: John Gorman, P. C.; Geo. D. Williams, C. O.; William W. Laundon, V. 0.; J. ©. Potter, P.; Samuel O. Cox, M. of E.; John E. Kenyon, M. of F.; Otto Martin, K. of R. and 8.; Nelson B. Jennings, M. at A.; W. S. Lyon, I. G.; and C. B, Spring, O. G.

This society meets on Friday evening of each week, at Odd Fellows Hall. The present membership is twenty-one. The officers for 1878 were: Robert C. Gamble, P. C.; J. C. Potter, C. O.; Richard T. Gamble, V. C.; James Lewis, P.; Wm. M. Laundon, M. of E.; George D. Williams, M. of F.; Otto Martin, K. of R. and S.; J. E. Lozier, M. at A.; C. B. Spring, I. G.; 8. C. Cox, O. G.

INEPENDENT ORDER OF GooD TEMPLARS. - Hlyria Lodge, No. 93, Independent Order of Good Templars, was authorized to assemble for organization, by a charter bearing date March 1, 1877, which-was issued to the following persons: A. O. Griswold, F. W. Kirchner, C. H. Williams, J. E. Cryer, J. OC. Biggs, William Davis, James L. Edwards, Conrad Fischer, W. L. Roe, Dr. L. C. Kelsey, Charles Faux, A. J. Houghton, George W. Rich, Mrs. H. McElwin, Mrs. H. Brush, Mrs. Frances Crouk, Miss 8S. K. Nichols, Miss

ANCIENT ORDER OF GooD FELLOws. - On September 22, 1860, Elyria Lodge, No. 17, A. O. of G. F., was instituted. The charter members were: M. Erne, C: Frome, V. Seabert, F. Schmidt, A. Eand, F. Beeze, G. Mabius, J. Schultz, 8. Fehr, H. Hammer, F. Martin, F. Muse, J. Steifel, M. Morlak, H. Reimbach, C. Baase, W. Scmidt, J. Geipel and E. Greeshamer. The officers on organization were: G. Seibert, N.G.; W.

Knieuts or Honor. - Anchor Lodge, No. 119, Knights of Honor, was instituted June 3, 1875, with twenty-two charter members, who were as follows: W. H. Tucker, W. L. Fay, G. H. Tyrrell, F. S. Reefy, B. McNeal, R. I. Jones, John E. Kenyon, John Blanchard, Zenas Bliss, R. E. Braman, Xenophon Peck, Thomas Tunnington, H.J. Kady, A.H. Bullock, A. F. Parsons, James E. Bronson, F. M. Whiteman, J. W. Ropp, William Crisp, W. W. Richardson, J. A. Tite and Thomas H. Linnell. The first officers were: Past Dictator, William H. Tucker; Dictator, Geo. H.

Tyrrel; Vice Dictator, F. M. Reefy; Assistant Dictator, R. E. Braman; Guide, John Kenyon; Reporter, W. L. Fay; Financial Reporter, H. J. Eady; and Treasurer, John Blanchard. Regular meetings, Thursday evenings of each week, at Odd Fellows Hall. The total membership is sixty-two. The officers for 1878 were: A. He Bullock P: 1D. 30 Wii Ee Mabbelly Di; Die H. Levagood, V. D.; John Blanchard, A. D.; R. H. Hill, Chaplain; J. W. .Ropp, Guide; John H. Faxon, Jr., Rep.; F. M. Whiteman, F. R.; William H, Park, Treas.; P. 8. Hatter, Guard; and George Butts, Sentinel.

RoyaL ArcANuM. - Elyria Council, No. 57, of this brotherhood, was organized February 27, 1878. The charter members were: W. L. Fay, W. H. Tucker, L. McLean, R. HE. Braman, O. Dole, Wm. H. Park, H. ©. Woodruff, HE. C. Perry, George G. Washburn, O. Root, H. M. Parker, J. E. Bronson, T. S. Faxon, J. H. Faxon, Jr., W. E. Brooks, John Lersch, J. L. Cole, D. J. Peck, Ed. H. Fisher, EH. A. Brush, J. D. Faxon, J. W. Ropp, Geo. C. Williams, L. B. Smith, W. S. Wilson, E. G. Johnson, D. W. Fuller, J. A. Tite, M. A. Levagood, G. H. Mapes and C. B. Clark. The first officers were: W. H. Tucker, Past Regent; W. L. Fay, Regent; W. H. Park, Vice Regent; L. McLean, Orator; W. E. Brooks, Secretary; George G. Washburn, Collector; J. H. Faxon, Jr., Treasurer; W. H. Levagood, Chaplain; J. W. Ropp, Guide; O. Dole, Warden; and HK. A. Brush, Sentinel. The officers are elected semi-annually, but as the present officers are substantially the same as those first elected, it is unnecessary to give them. The membership is thirty-eight. The regular meetings are on Monday evenings of each week, at Odd Fellows Hall.

Sketches Of Some Of The Early Settlers

SyLvaNus PARMELY came to Elyria as early as 1822, and was engaged for several seasons in brickmaking. He excavated.a hole in the rock at the east fall, some twenty feet in depth, into which a portion of the stream was turned. The water wheel was at the bottom of the excavation, which furnished the motive power for running the old red mill. Mr. Parmely built a two-story brick dwelling house on the corner where the Beebe House now stands, the corner room of which was used as a store. He removed to Sullivan, now in Ashland county, in 1832, where he owned a large farm. He spent much time and money in efforts to secure the formation of a new county of which Sullivan should be the county seat, but failed to obtain success. He was at one time a representative to the State legislature for Lorain county. He was a man of unbounded energy and perseverance. He raised a highly respectable family, and died some ten years ago at an advanced age.

ASAHEL PaRMELY, from Somerset, Vt., came to Ohio, arriving in Sullivan township August 7, 1817. He came with an ox team conveying his father, mother and two brothers, his wife and two children. These were Amandrin M. and Hannah, the latter of whom died on the road. The former in due time married Emily Thomas, of Massachusetts, and now resides on thirty-four acres of land, lot thirty-five, Elyria township, it being the old family homestead. Mr. Parmely, senior, came through without material incident (driving the family cow), until he arrived at Harrisville, now Medina county, from which point to Sullivan township there was an unbroken forest, through which he was obliged to cut a road some ten miles in length. Arriving at his destination, he made a selection of some four hundred acres of land in different sections. He located on one hundred and fifty acres, in lot forty-seven. With the assistance of his family he prepared a cabin of puncheons, placed on stakes driven in the ground. In this the family lived for three months, when a log house was erected and the family moved in. He remained in Sullivan until 1829. On the 17th of April of this year he removed to Elyria, locating on the land now occupied by his son Amandrin M. Here, after a long and peaceful life, he died January 4, 1859. Mrs. Parmely died October 18, 1875. The children born in Ohio were Ashley, who lives on the old homestead in Sullivan; Lovilla H. and Rexaville E., both deceased; Freeman

WILLIAM O. CAHOON came, with his father Joel Cahoon, to Dover, Cuyahoga county, in 1810, when four years of age. He grew to manhood on his father's farm. He first came to Elyria in 1826, and worked at chopping, but did not settle in town with his family until 1831. His wife was a daughter of Judge Moses Eldred. He was a stone mason by trade, and followed that business until his death. He owned a stone quarry on the east branch of the river, and a yery large portion of our excellent sidewalks were put down by him, He was a model of industry, and worked until the day of his death, which occurred on the 20th of July, 1878. He was seventy-two years of age. Mr. Cahoon was for many years a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Harwtow WELLS came from Connecticut with his brother-in-law, Hezekiah Kelsey, to Elyria in 1827, and settled on the farm where he now resides. It was then an unbroken forest, but he cleared up the land and made himself a pleasant home. He has lived a life of quiet industry, and now, at. an advanced age, is enjoying the fruits of his labor,

JONATHAN T. Parsons came also from Connecticut to Elyria in 1828. He settled on the farm on Lake avenue which he afterwards sold to Arad Smith. He died October 31, 1838, leaving a wife and two sons, one a babe and the other five years of age.

Epson A. GRISWOLD was born in Wintonbury, Connecticut, in the year 1805. He removed to Elyria in 1832, and bought the farm on Lake avenue on which he now resides. It was at that time a wilderness.

He has served two terms as a magistrate, and been a prosperous farmer. He has retired from active labor, and has transferred his farm to his son Arthur E, He still lives, at the age of seventy-three, in the enjoyment of good health of body and mind.

ArAp Smirx, of Amherst, Mass., married Miss Salome Elmer, of Virginius, Vt., in 1799. He removed to St. Lawrence county, N. Y., where he remained till 1833, when he came to Elyria and purchased the farm of Jonathan T. Parsons, lots thirty-seven and thirty-three, west of the river, sixtysix acres now occupied by his son Stephen Smith. He died in 1859, his wife having died in 1827. He was the father of thirteen children, five of whom are living. Stephen Smith has added to the old homestead, and now has one hundred and fifty-five acres.

Cou. WinLiAM GrReee, from Londonderry, N. H., married Hannah Jewett, of Stratham, N. H. They came to Elyria in 1834, and settled on the ridge road south of Arad Smith. Col. Gregg died August 31, 1874, at an advanced age. He was a valuable citizen. The children were William B., who married Mary Ann Bailey; they reside on the old homestead; Henry B. died in 1839; John died in California. Mrs. Gregg, relict of Col. Gregg, is still living, at the age of seventy-five.

EBENEZER WHITON came to Elyria from Lee, Mass. We are unable to give the time of his arrival. He was appointed clerk of the court of common pleas at its first session, which commenced August 12, 1824, and held the office until the time of his death, which occurred August 31, 1834. He purchased lots sixtytwo and sixty-three, and built the house next west of Mrs. Haines, which is still occupied.

EBENEZER GRIFFITH came from Allegany county, N. Y., to Elyria, in 1827, and in company with his brother, Luther N. Griffith, purchased the hotel built by George Douglas, then standing on the site of the present Union Block. After a few years the brothers dissolved, and Reuben Nichols (who came with his family from Vermont) became the partner of Mr. Griffith. They soon erected a new brick hotel on the same ground, called the Mansion House. ;

This was considered a fine building for that day. It was two stories in height, with a veranda occupying the entire front, supported by massive columns. This hotel was kept by the parties for many years, and was the best in town until the erection of the Beebe House. Mr. Griffith filled the office of sheriff for one or two terms, and other positions of honor and responsibility. He raised a family of eight children, five of whom are living. Of these, two only reside in Elyria, viz: Lomida M., wife of 8S. Bodwell, and Arvilla L., wife of Ira B. Sekins. Mr. Griffith died in December, 1866.

history. He was the son of Moses Eldred, who settled two miles east of the village in 1813, and for many years kept a hotel. The subject of this sketch, though a boy of sixteen, was for a short time a soldier in the war of 1812. After Hull's surrender of Detroit, there was great alarm among the pioneer settlers along the south shore of Lake Erie. They were but few in number, and their dwellings were isolated and scattered. The British had induced all or nearly all of the Indian tribes of the west to become their allies. The savage murder of defenceless families was a common occurrence.

The people of Ridgeville, with their wives and little ones, fled through the forest, driving their live stock, and took refuge in a log fort that had been built in Columbia. Young Eldred's father had been severely wounded in askirmish with the Indians on the Peninsula, and was borne from the field to the late Joshua R. Giddings. It was under these circumstances that the boy Eldred went to the front and commenced the life of a soldier. The capture of the British fleet by Commodore Perry, on Lake Erie, soon after relieved

The first brick manufactured, in Elyria were made by Mr. Eldred. The first land sold in the township was purchased by him; the first clearing was made by him; the first frame building raised without the aid of whisky was his. He was one of the first members of the Methodist Episcopal church in this place, and has continued a faithful member to the present time.

Ransom REDINGTON was the son of Eliphalet Redington, who removed from Massachusetts and settled in South Amherst, in this county, at an early day. He came to this township as early as 1819, then a young man. He was for several years a clerk in the store of Thompson Miles, and afterward a partner. He was also in partnership with Raymond Starr, after Mr. Miles retired from business. In 1832 or 733, he opened a dry goods store in the Ely Block, and continued in trade for eight or ten years, when he sold out. In 1842, he, in company with Charles Parsons, opened a book store - the first in Elyria. In 1844, they sold out to E. C. Griswold, who continued the business until 1877. Mr. Redington, for the rest of his life, was engaged principally in the law book trade through Northern Ohio. At the same time, he purchased of miscellaneous books for himself and friends every book that was rare, ancient or valuable, and many choice pictures and works of art. There is scarcely a pleasant home in this part of the State that is -not adorned with pictures of his selection. He possessed remarkable taste in making such selections. He was also an amateur in the cultivation of choice flowers, and supplied himself and friends with the choicest bulbs and flower seeds. The influence of such a life for good in any community can hardly be over-estimated. He was a profound .thinker, and speculated much on theological subjects.

married in 1826, to Miss Pamelia Manter, sister of Dr. Manter, who is still living at the age of seventyeight, in full possession of her faculties of mind and memory.. She is a highly cultured Christian lady, and, with Mr. A. Beebe, is the only remaining pioneer of this township. Mr. Redington died May 9, 1870, aged seventy years.

Medical History

Dr. JoHN F. ButTiLEeR must have come to Elyria as early as 1819, as he was a voter at the first election in the township in 1820. We are unable to state the place of his nativity, and only know that he was a graduate of the Fairfield Medical College, in Herkimer county, N. Y. He was aman of fair attainments, and a faithful, attentive physician, thoroughly devoted to his calling. Families who employed him had great confidence in his skill, and cherish his memory. He removed to his farm in Ridgeville, where he continued in the practice of his profession for many years. He died in 1858.

Dr. Aveustus WoLcorr came to Elyria, also, in 1819, and practiced his profession for several years. He too graduated at the Fairfield Medical School. He retired from practice and settled on his farm in Sheffield in 1829. He was a man of close observation and. sound judgment, and his prognosis in a case of disease, in the opinion of his patrons, settled the question of life or death. He died of cancer of the face May 17, 1841, aged sixty-one years.

Dr. NATHAN MANTER was born at Ashfield, Mass., August 23, 1792. His father, Dr. Francis Manter, died early, leaving him to the care of a devoted mother, who carefully trained him for a life of usefulness. The love and care of this faithful mother were met by the filial affection of the son, which was strikingly manifested during the whole course of her life. Dr. Manter was educated at the Fairfield Academy, in Herkimer county, N. Y. He pursued his medical studies with his uncle, Dr. Nathan Harwood, of that State. When he had completed the usual course of study, he came to Ohio, then almost a wilderness, and settled in Euclid, Cuyahoga county, in 1815. Here he secured a successful practice, and remained until 1824, when he removed to Elyria. In 1823, he married Miss Susan Miles, mother of his four children, who died November 29, 1836. She was a devoted wife, a tender and careful mother, and a faithful Christian. He afterward married Mrs. Pamelia Clapp, who died July 29, 1848. Dr. Manter was fortunate in both of his marriages; he was happy in his domestic relations. Pure refinement and affection characterized his home life.

He had an extensive practice, and for many years was recognized as the leading physican in this section of the country. He was a skillful surgeon, and did most of the business in that branch of his profession until younger men relieved him, by his own request, in' the more difficult and delicate operations. We quote

** After continuing in what is called regular practice for more than thirty years, Dr. Manter gradually changed to the system of Hanneman. This change, while it deprived him of the professional sympathy of his former medical associates, did not deprive him of the personal friendship or esteem of any one of them; whatever reasons or motives others may be supposed to have for a similar change, no one doubted the conscientiousness of Dr. Manter. Two years before his death he was stricken with paralysis. This attack was doubtless brought on by the death of his son, Col. Frank H. Manter, inthe army. During his two years of suffering he exhibited a remarkable degree of patience and resignation. He was tenderly cared for by his children, who with devoted affection ministered to every want. He died February 19, 1866, aged 73. Dr. Manter was a close student during his whole professional life, and was thoroughly conversant with the medical literature of his day. He was aman of close observation, and faithful in his attention to his patients. His mind was not distracted by political ambition or disturbed by outside influences. He was not only "' the good physician " to most of the early inhabitants of the village, but their confidential friend. He was genial and courteous in his manner, polite and dignified in his social intercourse with all. In short he was an accomplished christian gentleman of the old school. For more than thirty years he was an influential member of the Presbyterian church, and by his life he adorned his profession."

Dr. SAMUEL STRONG was educated at the Fairfield Medical School in the State of New York, and removed to Brownhelm in this county, about the year 1828. After two years of successful practice he changed his residence to Amherst, where he remained about two years. In 1833 he removed to Elyria and formed a co-partnership with Dr. N. H. Manter. This connection continued six or eight years, when it was dissolved. He continued in practice in Elyria until his decease. He died March 26, 1850, aged' forty-four years.

Dr. Strong was in many respects a remarkable man. He was an enthusiast in his profession and obtained a reputation for carrying through safely apparently hopeless cases of disease. He pursued the heroic plan of treatment, and would sit by the bedside of important and dangerous cases for whole days and nights watching the course of disease and the effect of remedies, and in this way would generally carry them through in safety. He wasa decided optimist, always looking on the bright side. This led him into some unfortunate speculations, but he enjoyed the respect of the community and the love of his friends while he lived. He was warm-hearted and generous, and seemed to enjoy more pleasure in performing acts of kindness for others than in promoting his own interests. Helefta widow and twochildren. Mrs. Strong afterwards became the wife of Mr. Otis Briggs, and is still living. His daughter, Carrie, married Mr. Edwin Mussey, who was for a long time a merchant in Amherst. His son, Samuel, has for many years been at the head of the great wholesale drug house in Cleveland of the firm of Strong, Cobb & Co.

'graduate of Berkshire Medical College, settled in Elyria, in 1832, and soon built up a respectable practice. In the fall of 1834, having lost his young and beautiful wife and feeling greatly depressed, he retired from practice, and soon after took charge of the Elyria High School. He conducted this school for several years, when he removed to the State of Michigan, where he soon died. Dr. Brown was a man of more than ordinary ability. Had he adhered to his profession he would doubtless have risen to eminence.

Dr. Ricnarp L. Howarp was the successor of Dr. Brown in the practice of his profession in Elyria, He was born in Andover, Vt., in the year 1809.

At the age of seventeen his father died, and he was left with the care of a widowed mother. With that indomitable energy which characterized his whole life, he discharged the new responsibilities with prudence and entire success. He began the study of medicine when quite young, and graduated with honor at the Berkshire Medical College at the age of twentytwo years. He moved to Windham, Portage county, and commenced the practice of his profession, and on the retirement of Dr. Brown from practice in 1834, he came to Elyria and took his place. He soon gained a large practice both as a physician and surgeon, and remained in Elyria until 1844, when he removed to Columbus, Ohio, where he soon secured a leading practice. He was mainly instrumental in establishing the Starling Medical College in that city, of which he became Professor of Surgery. The late Lyne Starling, a wealthy citizen, donated the munificent sum of thirty thousand dollars, which, with an additional amount, mainly furnished by Dr. Howard, was expended in the erection of that beautiful college building which now adorns the Capital City.

During the time he occupied the chair of surgery, he visited France, and spent some time in the famous hospitals of Paris. He returned, richly laden with the latest improvements in modern surgery. He died in the prime of life, at Columbus, January 16, 1854. He was, for several years, considered the leading surgeon in Central Ohio, and was an excellent teacher. Until his health failed, he edited the Ohio Medical and Surgical Journal. Dr. Howard was, in many respects, a remarkable man. Not naturally brilliant, he-made it up by his indomitable energy and perseverance. He was ambitious, but his ambition run only in the line of his chosen profession. He placed his standard high, and turned neither to the right nor left until he had reached the object sought. He had accumulated a handsome property, which he left to his widow and children.

Dr. Esper W. Hussparp was a graduate of the Fairfield Medical College. He located in La Grange, near the time of its first settlement, and had a lar; » practice in that and adjacent townships. He removed to Elyria, in 1838, and from that time until 1852, when not in public life, practiced in his profession. He was one of the associate judges of this county, for six years, before he settled in Elyria. He was three times elected to the lower branch of the general assembly, and was an able and influential member. He served for three years as bank commissioner, and the same length of time as fund commissioner. While

The falsity of old proverbs or trite sayings are often shown in the history of men. ." A prophet is not without honor except in his own country" is altogether wrong, as applied to Dr. Edwin ©. Perry.

Abel R. Perry and Lucy Ackley moved into Ohio, from Ferrisburg, Vt., in 1833, settling at Ridgeville, Lorain Co., Ohio. Mr. A. R. Perry removed to Elyria in 1854. His family embraced six children, all of whom are dead except the fifth (whose genial face heads this article). He yet remains, with his wife, at Elyria, a respected citizen, and justly proud of the success of his remaining child.

Dr. E C. Perry was born at Ridgeville, as above, Jan. 20,1840. The doctor owes much to the "New England energy" that made and moulded so much Lorain County character.

His mother, in the early life of her son, gave him the home teachings of Mrs. Adelia Ferris, who was more competent than the common-school teacher. This, however, was but limited, and not until the removal of his father did he get much educational privilege.

Under the teachings of Mr. Oatman, Mills, and others, at the Union School of Elyria, he distinguished himself as a scholar, graduating with honors. Soon looking the "problem of life" in the face, he determined to become a physician. Reading medicine in Elyria the proper time, he attended the full course of lectures at the Eclectic Medical Institute, of Cincinnati, Ohio. With high standing he graduated Feb. 6, 1861, at the early age of twenty-one.

in spite of any and every prejudice, so often existing in all communities against the "boy" who essays his mark, he was not long in gaining his reputation of a " careful healer,"' - one whose mere kindly presence ever brings relief to the sufferer.

Dr. Perry was married May 30, 1871, to Eliza Holbrook, daughter of Dexter and Jerusha Pomeroy Holbrook, both of New Fane, Windham Co., Vt. Mrs, Perry's parents, at an early day, moved into Pittsfield, Lorain Co., Ohio, removing to Elyria, where they now reside.

Dr. Perry, with justifiable pride, remembers that his wife, on the mother's side, was a great-grandchild of General Pomeroy, who, at the battle of Bunker Hill, stepped into the place of General Warren as he was slain; and on the father's side, great-grandchild of Mr. Holbrook, who was with General Ethan Allen at the surrender of Ticonderoga.

Not conforming always to the rule of his particular school, Dr. Perry is everywhere an eclectic in its broadest sense. Ever ready to consult with the disciples of other schools, he lives to learn from all that which shall enable him to become of greatest service to his fellow-man in his profession.

As a citizen, he is notably charitable. During the war of the Rebellion he procured a man to fill his place in the field. He is ever ready to lend a helping hand to all Elyria's improvements. He is the medical examiner of Council No. 57 of the Royal Arcanus of Elyria. Possessing a reputation unsullied by any act as a man, private or professional, he is a living example of one of Elyria's present self-made men.

Dr. Charles F. Cushing

The early annals of Scituate, Mass., show on their records frequently the name of Cushing. Francis Cushing was born at Scituate, and was a ship-builder. To him was given the honor of being one of the master-builders of the United States ship of war the " Old Constitution.'' Charles, his son, followed the calling of a farmer; was born at Scituate, and married Miss Sally R. Thayer, whose ancestors were of the Turner family, a name so common to the antiquarian who studies the early history of New England. Charles and his wife, Sally R., were the parents of ten children, one of them, Dr. C. F. Cushing, being born in 1829.

His early life was that of the average New England boy ; work on the farm, the common school, and three months' study in the select school found him seventeen years of age. Then buying his time of his father for one hundred dollars, the next four years were spent in work as he found it, now on the farm and again as a school teacher. Funds thus earned repaid the debt to his father, and were used for better educational privileges at Lewiston Falls, Maine.

Now with the world before him, the vocation of teacher was pursued by him at the South for three years, - years of much pleasure and of mental profit to him.

The spring of 1854 gave to him a new home, and greater opportunities of self-improvement. With the exception of a short visit to the Kast, the following five years were passed in California. Varied was his experience there: now in the city, now at the diggings, now proprietor of a hotel in the mountains ; again, in connection with a friend, a tract of land is taken up, fenced, prepared, and planted with fruittrees and the grape-vine. This contract was made between the friends: 'He who first marries, to him shall this property belong." The friend gained the "ranche," Elyria won her courteous physician.

Mr. Cushing commenced the reading of medicine with Dr. Norman, of Suisun Valley, California. These readings were completed with Dr. John Wheeler, at Cleveland,

Soon after taking up his residence in Elyria he engaged in the practice of his profession ; his first two winters, however, being spent at Cleveland, where, at his Alma Mater, he was demonstrator of anatomy, virtually filling that chair,

Commencing at Elyria as an exponent of the Hahnemann idea of medicine, - an idea yet unpopular with the many, - slow but sure was his steady progress in his profession, and marked was the esteem he daily gained as a citizen. This esteem showed itself in this way. Requested in 1862 to form a company of "squirrel hunters," with alacrity did he respond. Many a young man of Elyria will ever remember his departure from Elyria; the camp of weeks' duration upon Gen. W. H. Harrison's old homestead; the thanks with which Governor Tod sent them home under Captain Cushing, who as captain, physician, and friend performed those various duties so well.

In 1866 he wedded Miss Mary L. Hayward, of Brooklyn, N. Y. Thus did the grandson of the builder of the " Old Constitution" become the husband of the granddaughter of Mr. Lyman Knowles, who, at the request of ' Boston's solid men," built, at Amherst, Mass., the famous carriage for General Jackson from the historical timbers of 'said '" Old Constitution.": Of this marriage little Charlie alone remains to make the parents' home gladsome, two little sisters having passed away.

Now in the full vigor of manhood, with ever-increasing practice; honored by the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad Company with the position of surgeon of said road, after the death of the late Dr. E. P. Haines, which position was filled by Dr. Cushing until general order abolishing such office; with the most courteous relations existing between himself and brother physicians, no matter of how different schools ; with the respect of all, as citizen and physician, he lives one of Elyria's prominent men.

Frederick 8S. Reefy

Frederick S. Reefy* was born in the village of Boezingen, at the foot of the Jura, in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland, Sept. 1, 1833, and the following year emigrated with his parents to the United States, and located on a farm near Mount Eaton, Wayne Co., Ohio.

school, where he received his rudimentary education in the English language, and was instructed to read and write the German by his parents. Being of a studious habit, he took at an early age the first rank in his classes, and in a few years mastered the In the fifteenth year of his age the family moved to Tuscarawas branches taught in the district schools. County, near Wilmot. Here four more years were spent on the farm and at school, when he began teaching in the winter, and during the summer pursued the higher branches of education. This course, alternating as a teacher and student, continued seven years;

In the spring of 1860, Mr. Reefy went West, and located at Roanoke, Ind., where he organized the Roanoke Educational Society, and by its aid founded Roanoke Seminary. In 1862 he married Miss Mary Shearer. He remained at the head of the seminary eight years, during which time it was one of the most popular schools in Northern Indiana. In addition to his educational labors at the seminary, he served part of this time as superintendent of the sub-district schools of Huntington County. On account of failing health, in 1868, he quit teaching for a time, and subsequently moved to Bluffton, Indiana, and organized the graded schools of that place, and remained in charge as superintendent until 1872, when he resigned, and with his family moved to Elyria, and became editor and proprietor of the Elyria Constitution.

As a political writer Mr. Reefy is conscientious, bold, and vigorous. He criticises severely and commends generously. In the descriptive, his pen delineates the picturesque and beautiful in nature with happy effect.

he was acting in the latter capacity, the legislature authorized a loan of three million dollars, at seven per cent interest, provided Ohio bonds could be sold at par. For some time, the bonds of the State had been worth but fifty cents on the dollar, in the New York market. Dr. Hubbard and the late Governor Brough (then auditor of State,) proceeded to New York and Boston, and in six weeks negotiated for the entire amount. On reaching the city, they issued a pamphlet, showing the wealth and resources of Ohio, and the additional fact that, she had never failed promptly to pay the interest on her bonds when due.

In 1851, Dr. Hubbard removed to Tottenville, Staten Island, where he continued in practice until the time of his death, in 1872, at the age of seventythree years.

Dr. Hubbard was a man of much more than ordinary ability. He was not only well versed in his profession, but as a scientist, he enjoyed, to a considerable extent, a national reputation. He did not commence the study of the national sciences until he was forty years of age, and engaged in the practice of a laborious profession, and yet he became thoroughly familiar with the botany of this country, was well posted in geology and mineralogy, and as a conchologist had one of the finest collections: of fresh water and marine shells in the country. His cabinet attracted visitors from a distance, and they were amply repaid for their trouble. He was genial and pleasant in the discharge of his professional duties, and his presence in the sick room was cheering, and added much to his success in the treatment of his patients.

Dr. Norton 8. TOWNSHEND is still living and in the midst of his usefulness. We do not feel competent to write a sketch of his life and do him justice. We shall briefly recapitulate the important positions he has held, without much comment. His father emigrated from England to this country when Norton - an only child - was fourteen years of age, and settled in Avon, in this county, on the. beautiful farm which the doctor still owns. What advantages for obtaining an education he enjoyed before coming to Ohio, we do not know; but, after the family settled in Avon, his labor was needed on the farm, so that he never found time to attend even the district schools of that day. Perhaps he did not need the aid of teachers as most persons do. His mind was capable of grasping and mastering any branch of study that lay in his way. We first heard of him as a well grown boy aiding in organizing a literary society and then a book club among the young people of his own age, and the influence for good, especially of the reading club, is felt in Avon to this day.

'In 1837, he entered the office of Dr. R. L. Howard, in Elyria, as a student of medicine. He was then about twenty-one years of age. In the fall and winter of that year he attended a course of medical lectures in Cincinnati. He returned to Elyria in the spring, and continued his studies until the fall of 1839, and, after attending a course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, graduated in the spring of 1840. He immediately sailed for Europe and spent the succeeding year and a half in attending the hospitals of Paris, London, Edinburgh and Dublin. At the close of this time he returned to Ohio, and, for a short time, practiced medicine in Avon.

In 1843, he was married to Miss Harriet Wood, an estimable lady, and moved to Elyria. Here, as everywhere, his influence was felt. He took a prominent part in organizing and carrying on the Elyria Natural History Society, and delivered more and better lectures before that society than any other person. Whenever a lecturer failed to appear, Dr. Townshend was called on to fill the place, and he was always ready to deliver a most interesting and instructive lecture. While in practice he performed a number of capital surgical operations, such as lithotomy, amputations of the thigh, shoulder, ete.

In 1848, Dr. Townshend was elected to the house of representatives of the State by the free soil party. It so happened that he and the Hon. John F. Morse, of Lake county, were the only free soilers elected, and that they held the balance of power between the whig and democratic parties. They used this power to great advantage, and, with the aid of the democracy, secured the repeal of the odious ''black laws," which had disgraced the statute book of Ohio for many years. They also secured the election of Salmon P. Chase to the United States senate - which was the beginning of his public life - as well as the appointment of several other anti-slavery men, to prominent positions in the State. The doctor was understood to be the controlling spirit in bringing about these results.

In 1850, Dr. Townshend was elected a member of the constitutional convention which formed our present excellent constitution, and occupied a prominent position in that body. In the fall of that year he was elected a member of the thirty-second congress. Being a young man and an abolitionist, he was cut by the lordly slaveholders, who then had a controlling influence in congress. Mr. Stanley, of North Carolina, condescended to attack him in a speech on the floor, to which the doctor replied; and it is said that after the reply the gentleman from North Carolina was known as ''the late Mr. Stanley." At the end of his congressional term he was nominated for re-election, but the democracy had so gerrymandered his district that he was defeated.

~In 1853, he was elected to the State senate. During the session, he introduced a bill to establish an asylum for imbecile children and youth. It passed at the next session, and he was appointed a member of the board of trustees, which position he held, by reappointment, until 1878.

In 1863 he was appointed, by President Lincoln, a medical inspector in the army, with the rank of colonel of cavalry, which position he held until the close of the war.

In 1870, he labored earnestly and successfully to secure the passage of a law to establish an agricultural and mechanical college for this State, and when the bill passed, he was appointed a trustee.

In 1873, when the college buildings were completed, and the institution ready to be opened, he accepted a professorship, and removed with his family to Columbus. He is still an honored and useful member of the faculty.

In the winter of 1854, his first wife died, leaving a son and daughter. He was subsequently married to Miss Margaret A. Baily, of Clarksburg, Virginia, who is a highly cultured and excellent lady, and makes the doctor's home very pleasant.

Few men in Ohio can show such an honorable record, and few have done more to promote the general welfare of the people. Dry. Townshend is yet in the prime of life, possesses a robust constitution, and has, we trust, many years of usefulness before him.

Dr. Epwin KELLEY came to Elyria in 1849, and soon secured a good practice. He was thoroughly educated in his profession, was gentle and courteous in his manners, warm in his friendships, and pure in his morals. He married a daughter of William M. Beebe, of Hudson, Ohio. Pulmonary consumption, that insatiable messenger of death, soon made him its victim. He spent a winter in Florida, without any permanent benefit, and, in a year or two, he passed away, greatly lamented in this community, where he had many friends.

Dr. JAMIN STRONG was born in Parma, Monroe county, New York, November 27, 1825. From the age of five until twelve he attended school in his native village, most of the time. After his parents removed to Sheffield, in this county, in 1838, he attended the common schools, and was assisted in his studies, during the intervals, by his sister, who was a teacher. For one year previous to his entering upon the study of medicine, he 'studied Latin, botany and chemistry. He entered the office of Dr. Eber W. Hubbard, in Elyria, as a student, in the spring of 1846. After attending three courses of lectures at the medical department of the Western Reserve College, he graduated at that institution, in 1849. He immediately thereafter commenced practice in Elyria, and continued in successful business until 1870.

In 1866, he was appointed professor of Materia Medica and Therapeutics in the medical department of the Wooster University, and resigned that position in the spring of 1870.

representatives of the general assembly of Ohio, which office he resigned in June, 1870, at which time he was appointed special agent of tho post office department, and resigned the same in September, 1875.

It will be seen that Dr. Strong has filled many positions of honor and trust, and in every position he has done credit to himself, and greatly benefited the public. In his present difficult and responsible office, having the care of nearly six hundred unfortunates who are deprived of reason, he has united firmness with gentleness and kindness in a remarkable degree, and has manifested a high degree of administrative ability.

Sketches Of Former Residents Of Elyria Who Have Attained Distinction Here Or Elsewhere

In the year 1855, there were in the Elyria High School a class of boys who will be long remembered by our older citizens as the brightest and most intelligent of any who have passed through our union schools. Their names are: Charles C. Goodwin, Osceola Bliss, Henry Joy, Thomas J. Boynton and Charles C. Parsons. They organized a school lyceum, and their debates and other exercises attracted the attention and admiration of many of the best cultured minds in this community.

CHARLES C. Goopwin, after doing good service as an officer in the Union army, during the war of the rebellion, went into business at its close, in Jackson, Mich., where he now resides.

.OscEoLA BLIss opened a drug and apothecary store also in Jackson, where he made many friends, and enjoyed the confidence and regard of the entire community. He died young, leaving a wife and daughter, greatly lamented by his friends and acquaintances.

Tuomas J. Boynton was the son of John H. Boynton, Esq., and was born in Amherst, August 31, 1838. When twelve years of age, he removed with his father's family to Elyria, and was educated in our union schools. He studied law with the Hon. L. A. Sheldon, and was admitted to the bar when twenty years of age. He opened an office in St. Joseph, Missouri, and during the winter of 1858-59, was a correspondent of the Missouri Democrat. His letters attracted much attention on account of their ability and brilliancy. In March, 1861, he was appointed by President Lincoln marshal of the southern district of Florida. This office he filled with prudence and ability for two years, when in 1863, on the resignation of Judge Marvin, he was appointed United States judge for the above district. It is believed that ''he was the youngest person ever appointed to that position in the history of this country." He discharged his duties with eminent satisfaction until 1869, when failing health compelled him to resign. He hoped that a change of climate would result in the restoration of his health. He spent most of his time, after his resignation, among the mountains in the western territories, but without receiving any benefit. His disease - which was a bony tumor pressing upon the brain - steadily progressed. He submitted to an operation for its removal, at the Bellevue Hospital, in New York. The operation was performed by the celebrated surgeon, Dr. Wood, and for ten days there seemed a fair prospect for his recovery; but at the end of that time, inflammation set in, which soon destroyed his life. His parents reached his bedside while he was able to recognize them, but was unable to speak. He died on the 2d of May, 1871, aged thirty-two years. His remains were brought to this village for interment.

This is a brief history of the brief life of an estimable young man, but how precious is his memory to his family and surviving friends. Few young men have left such a record. Perhaps none have done more honor to the town where he was raised and educated. The following are the closing paragraphs of an obituary notice published in the Missowri Democrat:

** Judge Boynton was a man of remarkable promise. He was unusually talented, and if health and the ability to use his faculties had been granted him, he would doubtless have achieved a wide reputation. He was an earnest and eloquent speaker and a peculiarly facile and vigorous writer. When but twenty-one years of age he was employed as &@ campaign speaker in New York, and the same year was appointed to welcome Governor Seward to St. Joseph, on the occasion of his visit to that city. He was for several years an able and always interesting correspondent of the Missouri Democrat. His early demise will be deeply regretted by a very large circle of warm friends."

CHARLES CARROLL PARSONS was the son of Jonathan Trumbull and Mary C. Parsons, who _ removed from Bloomfield, Hartford county, Connecticut, to Elyria, in 1827, and settled on the farm now owned by Stephen Smith. Mr. Parsons died October 31, 1838, and the subject of this sketch, then a babe six months old, with his mother and a brother aged five years, became members of the family of his uncle, Dr. Griswold. His mother married the Rev. William Butlin, after'three or four years, but Charley, as we loved to call him, remained most of the time in the family of his uncle, who considered him a foster son. and was distinguished as a bright, active boy, and an excellent scholar. In 1857 he was appointed by Judge Bliss (who was then in Congress) 'a cadet at West Point. commissioned a first lieutenant awd assigned to the Fourth regiment U. S. artillery He served a few months in the mountains of Wést Virginia, and then joined Gen. Buell's troops, who by a forced march reached the battle field of Shiloh at the close .of the first day's battle, when the Union troops were defeated and greatly demoralized. Gen. Buell's troops crossed the river as soon as possible, the army was rallied and before morning took their position for the second day's battle. Lieut. Parsons commanded a battery of U. S. troops in that battle, which resulted in a victory for the Union army, and the next day a detail of officers was appointed to examine as to the execution of his battery, who reported a hundred and fifty dead rebels on the field killed by his guns. For distinguished bravery in this action he was promoted and made a captain. In the early summer he obtained a '"'leave of absence," returned north and was married to Miss Celia Lippett, of Brooklyn, New York. Returning to duty he reached Louisville, where he found communication with his battery cut off by the rebel General Bragg. General Terrel, then in command, made a detail of two hundred men from the raw troops of the infantry regiments, and-ordered them to report to Capt. Parsons for duty. Out of this material he organized an eight gun battery. He commanded this battery at Perryville. Gen. Jackson, his division commander, and Gen. Terrel, who commanded a brigade, were killed almost at his side. His men, though raw, seem to have been brave, as forty of them were killed or wounded. The rest, with the regiment supporting the battery, retreated. His horses were nearly all killed and still Capt. Parsons stood by his guns. It was emphatically a one man battery.

At this juncture a column of rebel troops advanced to take the battery, and the Captain with his face to the enemy, retreated backwards. A hundred guns were raised toshoot him, but the rebel ofticer, admiring his bravery, ordered them not to fire, and the two officers, giving each other the military salute, Capt. Parsons walked deliberately away. The next morning he re-took part of his battery. For distinguished bravery in this battle he was breveted major. His next battle was that of Stone River. Gen. Palmer (since Governor of Illinois) says of him: '' During the whole day I regarded the battery under command of Capt. Parsons as my right arm. My orders to Parsons were simple: 'Fight where you can do the most good !' Never were orders better obeyed."" For this battle he was breveted lieutenant-colonel of the regular army. Soon after this battle he went to New York to submit to a surgical operation and soon after was detailed as an instructor at the West Point Military Academy, where he remained until the close of the war, at which time he was ordered to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he served for two years, part of the time on the plains, when he was again ordered to to West Point as a teacher. While there he became

Tennessee, under whose guidance he began the study of theology. He resigned his position in the army and repaired to Memphis, where he took holy orders in 1870. He was fora time rector of St. Mary's in

Memphis, but was soon called to St. Mary's in the Highlands, at Cold Spring, opposite to West Point. He served the church faithfully and acceptably for about two years, when he was called to the Church of. the Holy Innocents, at Hoboken, N. J. He served here for three years, when the death of his beloved wife making a residence at that place painful to him, he returned to Memphis, and became canon of St. Mary's cathedral. Here he labored with the zeal and earnestness, which had characterized, his whole life, until that fatal scourge (yellow fever) which made Memphis a charnel house, took possession of that doomed city. At the commencement of the disease, and before it became epidemic, he sent his wife and two children (he had re-married in Memphis) to friends in the country, but he remained faithful at the-post of duty, laboring night and day in comforting the sick and administering the consolations of religion to the dying. We quote from an article published in the Chicago Tribune, written by a former comrade:

'A man of polished intellect, of beautiful soul, the possessor of every grace, Parsons seemed to have been created for the sweet offices of charity and friendship. From the outbreak of the plague until he became one of its victims he had been constantly busied, (as he wrote me afew days ago) 'in caring for the dead, the dying and forsaken." He has been winning the useful victories of peace; he has stood by his guns, but alas, the invisible enemy, less generous than the visible, has not held his fire."

Cot. FRANK H. MANTER was the son of the late Dr. Nathan H. Manter, and was born in Elyria, December 31, 1824. He spent his boyhood here, and, at a suitable age, entered the Western Reserve College, at Hudson, where he remained two years. He then, at the age of twenty, took charge of an academy at or near Natchez, Miss., for about two years, when he removed to St. Louis, Mo. He soon obtained the position of clerk of one of the courts, and, while discharging the duties of that office, studied law and was admitted to the bar. On retiring from office, he opened a law office and soon obtained a leading practice. He was for a time president of the city council, in which position ''he diligently and intelligently served his constituents." We quote from the proceedings of a meeting of the 'St. Louis bar" convened immediately after his death:

"When the clouds which have since burst in storm over our land, began to gather and give sign of the approaching tempest, he was prompt among the foremost to promote the organization of those bodies to which the successful resistance of St, Louis to the efforts of secession in the spring of 1861, was mainly due."

Headquarters Department Of Arkansas

With feelings of sorrow and regret the general commanding announces to the troops of this department the untimely death of Col. F. H. Manter, chief of staff. He died at two o'clock this morning from an injury received by the falling of his horse. He survived the fatal accident but a few hours, and breathed his last surrounded by his military friends and companions. Col. Manter's military career, which commenced at the commencement of this rebellion, reflects great credit upon his character as an officer. He was energetic in raising troops to stay the rebellion in Missouri immediately after the Camp Jackson affair, and first distinguished himself on the battle-field at Wilson's Creek, as first lieutenant in the First Missouri infantry, having previously participated in the skirmish at Boonesville. After the battle of Wilson's Creek, his regiment was transferred to the artillery service, and he was promoted to the command of Battery A, which served in Gen. Steele's division during the first campaign into Arkansas, and acquired a reputation for discipline and efficiency, which no volunteer battery in the west had at that time acquired. In the summsr of 1862 he was promoted to the command of the Thirty-second Missouri infantry, and commanded his regiment in the assault on Chickasaw Bayou, and at Arkansas Post in Blair's brigade, Steele's division. He commanded one of Steele's brigades during Grant's memorable campaign into Mississippi, which culminated in the surrender of Vicksburg. In consequence of the arrival of a senior officer at Vicksburg, who was entitled to the command of the brigade, Col. Manter was assigned to duty on the staff of Major General Steele, then in command of the Fifteenth Army Corps, 'and served in that capacity during Sherman's siege of Jackson, and the pursuit of the rebel, Joe Johnson, beyond Brandon, and in the capacity of chief of staff he accompanied Gen. Steele on the Arkansas expedition, which resulted in the capture of Little Rock and the occupation of the line of the Arkansas. He accompanied the command in the recent operations south of the Arkansas, and had just returned from an important mission, when his career of honor and usefulness. was suddenly terminated by a fatal accident. Those who knew him most intimately can but appreciate the great loss which the government as well as themselves have sustained. He was brave, patriotic. able, independent in thought and action, a true soldier and an honest friend.

Co]. Manter was married September 1, 1853, to Miss Elizabeth M. Redington, daughter of the late Ransom Redington. She died July 26, 1856, leaving an infant son, who is living and grown to maturity. So tenderly did Col. Manter cherish the memory of his beloved wife that he never again entered the marriage relation. Their remains sleep side by side in our Elyria cemetery.

Biographical Sketches Charles A. Ely

Not long before the division amongst three brothers of a large estate, the youngest brother wrote as follows: ''Some men are born to business, others achieve business, and some have business thrust upon them. Of this last class am I, though I shall remain off duty as long as Heaven sends excuses; and perhaps when Heaven withholds, I may make some excuse for myself. Yet one thing is certain, when action commences, even though I may be compelled to employ one hand to keep both ends together, the other shall always be free to grasp the beautiful, to

Grandly did Charles Arthur Ely perfect the above statement in after life. Youngest son of Judge Heman Ely, (whose early life, and whose connection .with the early history of Elyria are already set forth in this volume,) and Harriet M. Salter Ely, he was born at Elyria, Ohio, May 2d, 1829. Of Puritan stock was C. A. Ely, on the mother's side. William Salter, born in England in 1633, emigrated ta Boston, Mass. He and his wife were members of the first church established in Boston, which stood on State street. As this church grew strong, from it went out Mr. Salter and others, who founded the famous "Old South Church." Of such descent was Mrs. Harriet M. Ely, in direct line. Of New England culture, Mrs. Ely trained her son in that culture, which means so much. Brought up in habits of strict economy, never did that son in future 'life lose the distinction between the use and abuse of wealth to which he was born.

_ ©. A. Ely's early years were spent in Elyria. After usual primary education, he commenced the necessary training for College, under the Rev. John Monteith, Rey. John P. Cowles and others, who were teachers in the ''old high school house," or in select schools. During the year 1846 severe disease of the eyes compelled cessation from study. His characteristic energy allowed no idea of idleness. Various _were his employments for the following two years. At the bench of Caleb Goodwin (cabinet maker,) he had gifted him. At the woolen manufactory of Herrick Parker he soon became expert at the loom. Thus did he work until the fall of 1847, when he went to Cleveland, Ohio, as a clerk for Clark & Morgan, dry goods men. Returning to Elyria, he engaged in study under the Rey. C. D. B. Mills. March Ist, 1849, '' The Elyria Academical Institution" gave its annual exhibition. No. 18 on the programme was a colloquy - C. A. Ely author. This ended any study so far as Elyria was concerned. In the summer of 1849 Boston was visited for treatment of ever troublesome eyes. Entering the Scientific School at Cambridge, Mass., the time was passed until-1851. During this year a few months' residence - in Cincinnati, Ohio, gave to him a full course in ' book-keeping. In the latter part of the same year he went to New Grenada, South America, his general residence being at Carthagena. Returning thence April 3d, 1852, after a short stay in Elyria he again visited Cambridge, where most of his time was spent until the fall of 1853. In February, 1854, on the - "division of his father's estate, he commenced the duties of life. His own words can best express his idea of such duties. ''No one has more laborious posi- ~ tion to fill than the man who finds himself at maturity the possessor of wealth, with an earnest desire so to use it that he may in the largest sense benefit him- 'self and others." With this laudable desire, active work commenced in the improvement of his property. .On June 19, 1854, taking Miss Louise C. Foot, daughter of the Hon. John A. Foot, of Cleveland, O., as partner in the joys or sorrows of his future - leaying his native land June 24, 1854, the next five months were spent in travel over Great Britain, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland and France. In these travels, a mind, already highly cultivated, gained deeper insight, greater breadth. To his artistic eye, the beautiful, as he met it in the old countries, always appealed. The old and ancient, however, to him, was only an adjunct to the now. Everything was made subservient to the one idea: '' What may I here learn of farming, of science, of art, that I may make useful to my fellow men."

Again at home, in December, 1854, he-received an injury, which, though long after, caused his death. The spring of 1855 found him engaged in the work that lay very near his heart, viz: the preparation of his farm; the building a large stock farm; the perfecting arrangements he had made for the introduction of a fine herd of Devon cattle into Lorain county. December, 1855, brought to him the first attack of disease which in the end proved fatal. With indomitable will he struggled bravely against it until waning health demanded rest and recreation. August, 1856, saw his pleasant, household broken up. Some months were spent in travel. The winter of 1856 and 1857 was passed at Brattleboro, Vt. The summer and fall of the same year Elyria welcomed him as resident, with the exception of a short trip to the upper lakes.

For increasing ill health physicians advised a sea voyage. Thus advised, Mr. Ely and wife sailed from New York, February 10, 1858, for China. A pleasant voyage landed them on its shores. Visiting many of its leading cities, he entered Canton just after its reduction by the combined English and French forces; various the experience, much was learned.

_ 6th following gave to them a new home at San Francisco, Cal. Mr. Ely spent nearly two years in California - years of great mental profit and physical pleasure, even though marred by the ever haunting presence of fatal disease. Here his favorite study had full scope in the great agricultural resources of that young State. The result of such studies was given to others in a series of articles written for and published in the Alta Californian. Leaving California July, 1860, stopping at Valparai'o, Lima and other South American cities; October, 1860, he cheered Elyria again with his presence. Now full of happiness at the universal love and respect showered upon him by his fellow citizens, with hopeful heart he again essayed the completion of former notions, laying the foundations of the beautiful residence (since so fully finished by his widow). None envied him; all loved him, and wished for him every good. Not such his fate: fell disease made rapid inroad. Unable to carry into completion his wishes for Elyria, Elyria's' benefactor died September 30, 1864, leaving not only the dear wife and only son, but all who had ever known him, to mourn his loss.

'* Wealth and social position do not always make the man, but the two combined give their owner wonderful opportunity for use or abuse." Thus wrote C. A. Ely, in 1852. It is a great pleasure for a friend to try, in some feeble way, to show how Mr. Ely, with his advantages, so used them, as to become a man. Of fine, even commanding appearance, he was, under all circumstances, the well bred man - genétleman. Knowing no distinction of class or race, he who respected himself, ever had C, A. Ely's respect. No one, however humble his place in life, can say, did he look upon me with haughty eye. He endeared himself to those in his employ, by courteous treatment and unvarying kindness. The early teachings of a devotedly pious mother only enhanced his innate religious idea.

Whilst in Boston, attending and learning from the teachings of clergymen of different views, he writes as follows: ''A church, whose religion shall be a pure and active humanity, is what I need. If men can only be waked up and set in motion, I care not how eccentrie their orbit; whether one run off into spiritualism, another into materialism, and still another into blind creed worship, the revolution is what man needs, and then following a natural law, the orbit will eventually become the perfect circle of truth." bership ina church. I may see my duty in a light a little different from those I join, still I can labor with them, and be sustained by them, just as the violet ray comes from the same sun, and through the same atmosphere as the yellow, or red ray, yet it has a different end in the overruling providence of heaven. I shall become a member of a Congregational church, where I find professions of feelings that are expressed by deeds, prayers that live themselves out in active charities."

Nature endowed Mr. Ely with an intense love of the beautiful. This love did he express on the musical instrument, by his pencil and brush, and by the adornment of his home by works of art, saying: «« These I may not live to enjoy, but surely they will make others happy."

As a scholar, he was wonderful in this. Ever troubled with weak eyes, it was with uncomplaining pain he studied. Devoting much attention to science, he was elected secretary of the Cambridge scientific association at Harvard University. A member of the American scientific association, its annual meetings were attended as health allowed. A personal friend and student of Prof. Agassiz, and his colleagues, pleasant were his relations with them. Writing from Cambridge, in 1849, he says: '' Will it not be curious if, in the progress of science, that an electric light be brought into common use. student talk of removing the oxidized carbon from the positive and negative poles of his electro-magnetic illuminator, instead of trimming the 'midnight oil.' "

His studies in science he made of great service to others, while in California, where he delivered a course of scientific lectures at Oakland, ta the students of California college. At an earlier day, he had been prominent at home (for one so young), in building up the Natural History Society, of Elyria, and also under the tutelage of Dr. E. W. Hubbard, of making one of the finest collections of Ohio shells, in the State. As a citizen, in its every sense, words will fail to do him justice.

Commencing farming operations, but forced to leave in search of health, he writes from the distant water cure: '' Let my plans be carried out as far as practicable. I shall soon return. Keep the men at work, even if they dig up trees on my wood lands and plant them on the streets of Elyria." Returning to Elyria he interested himself greatly in the Lorain county agricultural society. Developing his farm he became a prominent breeder of Devon cattle, and at one time had no equal in the United States. His herd at the Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana; and other State fairs, outstripping all competitors; and finally, at the United States fair, at Louisville, Ky., taking the highest premiums.

In 1856, as a member of the school board, he worked long and hard, in securing the present site and erection of the union school building. Again, in

1856, he used every exertion in his power to commence a public ibrary. His action proving of no avail, through the indifference of others who might have helped him, to him, then, it became almost a sacred duty to found such library. How grandly this duty was performed, let the '' Elyria Library," lasting monument of the great heart of C. A. Ely, bear witness. Its past history and its present condition are already fully described in this volume. What pen, and who so wise to use it aright, as to write the future benefits that must follow this noble gift.