Pickaway Township (part 22 of 49)

Mr, and Mrs. Cline have been granted a family of three children: Mar\' Catherine, now Mrs. PI Weaver, has one child, and resides in Jasper Township; Samuel N. and Philip P. They have all been given every advantage for obtaining good educations, and Mary, previous to her marriage, taught school. Mrs. Cline is a conscientious member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is active in all good works. Our subject is Director of his school district, and in politics, is a believer in Democratic principles. He has been the incumbent of the positions of Township Trustee and Supervisor, and is accorded the respect of all who know him.

ORACE B. McCORD. Among the old residents and prominent farmers of Scioto Township, Pickaway County, we are pleased to mention the esteemed citizen whose name appears at the head of this sketch. He was born in Albemarle County, Va., July 16, 1825, and his father, James McCord, was born in the same county, June 10, 1802. The grandfather, William McCord, was American-born, but his father was a native of the Green Isle of Erin, who became a true and loyal citizen of America, and served as a soldier in the Revolutionary War before he was eighteen years old, continuing in service through most of the war, and being in the battle of Brandywine. He was still living when the father of our subject was in his thirteenth year.

James McCord was both a farmer and carpenter, and when he came to Ohio in the fall of 1834, he sold his farm of forty-eight acres in Virginia, and made iiis way across the mountains with team and wagon, a journey of six hundred miles, being three weeks on the way. He settled first in this township, but a year later moved to Franklin County, where he remained for four years, and then returned to settle in the woods in Scioto Township, and made his home in a log cabin. He first bought one hundred and fifteen acres, and at his death owned an estate of four hundred and fourteen acres. He was a hard worker and a good business man, and did an immense amount of clearing. He was a Methodist in his religious views, and a Democrat in politics. His wife, whose maiden name was Sydney Brown, was born in Albemarle County, Va., in March, 1807. Her seven children were: Horace, Isabel, William (who died at the age of eight), John, Andrew (who died in his second year), Mary (Mrs. Brown), and James A. The father of this household died in February, 1875, and the mother lived until Jul}^, 1884. They were Methodists in their religious belief.

The subject of this sketch was nine years old when he came to Ohio, and well recollects the long and tedious journey. He had attended school only some six months while in Virginia, and here he entered the log schoolhouse, and out of school worked on the farm, remaining with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age. He then engaged to work for a neighboring farmer, and earned his first money by cutting corn at two cents a shock, a shock comprising an area twelve hills square. After this, he worked for five seasons, at llO a month, for his father, and was married March 26, 1857, to Mary Callahan, who was born in this township, and who died March 8, 1867, leaving no children.

Mr. McCord was again married, January 21, 1871, this time to Elizabeth (Wade) Denheen, who was born in Knox County, Ohio, Januar}^ 13, 1839. Their five children are Harry L., Laura, Chauncy, Miner and Daisey. Harry died when eleven months old. Laura is now from home stud3ang at the Central Academy. The parents of Mrs. McCord were Abner and Anna (Terrell) Wade, who were natives of Knox Count}', Ohio, and Greene County, Pa., respectively, and who came to Ohio in their early childhood. The father was a fai'mer and still lives with his children on the farm in Franklin County, where he settled during the days of the Civil War. He is now seventy-eight years old, and in early times was noted as a great hunter as well as a worker, and be did much to clear up the country. He reared fourteen children: Elzy, Joseph, Elizabetli, Mary, James, p]meline Tillie, Antliony, AVilliani, Josephine and Josepli; three died in infanc}'.

Our subject first bought fifty acres of land north of his preseut farm in 1850, and, having Ijought and sold several times, finally purchased one hundred and twenty-four acres across tlie line in Franklin County, in 18(34. After living there for three years, he sold that property in 1871, and bought two hundred and seven acres, after which he sold fifty acres of that land and bought his present farm. He has two hundred and fifteen and a half acres of vvell-iniproved land, and carries on mixed farming, raising grain and stock, and fattening some cattle and a large numl)er of hogs. He built his commodious and comfortable brick residence in 1883, moving into it in August, 1884, and his large frame barn was erected in 1883, Mrs. McCoid is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and JMr. McCord is, in his political views, a Democrat, although he pa3'S little attention to politics, and has never aspired to otiice. He has seen most of the development of this country, and has been remarkably successful in his business.

ONRAD RICHARDS. Among the standard and leading establishments of Circleville, Ohio, the Cooperage Manufactory, conducted by Conrad Richards, stands among the foremost. This is the largest enterprise of the kind in the Scioto Valley, and an immense amount of business is done, 'i'went}^ skilled emi^loyes are ke[)t at work and turn out first-class articles. The machinery is of the finest and most modern make and no works are fitted with more modern appliances. The goods are all guaranteed and are standard with the trade, and those dealing with Mr. Richards will get advantages not obtainable elsewhere.

tailor by trade, and conducted a shop in his native city. He also owned a vineyard and manufactured wine there. About 1853, he became desirous of settling in the "land of the free," and he emigrated to America, locating in Circleville, Ohio, where he carried on his trade for three j'ears, or until IHoC. He then returned to his native country, and in 1859 came back to America with his family. lie settled in Circleville again, followed his trade, but in addition was engaged in the real-estate business. He died in October, 1891. In religion, he was a Catholic, and in politics affiliated with the Democratic party. His wife, who was formerly Eliza Brungs, was also a native of (Jerinan}^ and the daughter of Conrad Brungs, who was a carpenter in that country. Mrs. Richards died at the age of seventy-six years. Six of their eight children came to America and five are now living. One son, Henry, was a soldier in the Civil War and first enlisted for three months. After his term had expired, he re-enlisted in the Forty-third Ohio Regiment and was in active duty until cessation of hostilities. After the war, he returned to the Bucke3'e State and died in Cincinnati shortly afterwards. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias. Another son. John, was in the Morgan raid, was captured at Petersburgh, Va., and was in Anderson ville Prison for a year. He suffered untold horrors and after being released, came home more dead than alive. He is now the owner of a steamboat on the Ohio River. Conrad Richards was born near Cologne, Germany, on the 27th of INIarch, 1836, and was reared near Lenz, on the River Rhine. He attendcul tlie common schools from the age of six until fourteen, and when fifteen years of age he began working in the coi)per mines, and was also in the silver mines in AVest Phalen for about three years. He became a practical miner, driller and blaster. In June, 1856, he left Antwerj), Belgium, and as he could not get a passport, he and his brother were smuggled aboard. They were on the ocean fortyseven days, and after landing in New York City went up the Hudson River to Albany, thence b}' rail to Columbus and from there by packet to Circleville, Ohio. He has picked up the P>nglish language since coming to this countrj' and is quite a fluent speaker. After reaching the Buckeye State, he worked on a farm for a year but did not like it, and then embarked in gardening, which he continued until the fall of 1862. when he began serving as ap[)rentice at the cooper trade. A year later, he began business here and in Chillicothe, but in 1874 he started liis present business on the Scioto Valley Railroad l)etween Maine and Mound Streets. His building is two stories in height and is 80x60 feet in dimensions. The capacity of his manufactory is three hundred barrels, and JMr. Richards superintends the business himself.

Our subject chose for his life companion Miss Theressa Kelhofer, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and their marriage was solemnized in Chillicothe in 1865. Their union has been blessed by the birth of six children who are as follows: Lizzie, married John Ryan; Henry, a cooper by trade, married Mary Schweizer; Annie married Frank Stein; Maggie, Mary, and Birdie, all at home. Mr. Richards is a Democrat in politics, but is not radical in his views. He is a clever, shrewd business man, has been unusually successful, and by his pleasant, genial disposition has won many friends.

THOMAS HORN, whose home is in Fairfield Township, Madison Countj^, is an intelligent and })rogressive farmer and a man of unbounded energy and zeal in whatever project he undertakes. He is the sou of John M. Horn, who was born in Berkeley County, W. Va., while his mother, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Recob, was a native either of Pennsylvania or Maryland.

After their marriage, the parents of our subject located in Ross County, this State, where they resided until 1 85 1 , and then came to Madison County, where the father's decease occurred March 4, 1861, in Fairfield Township. The mother, who survived him many years, departed this life at the home of her daughter in McLean County, 111., in the fall of 1872.

Our subject was the youngest child in the parental family of seven children, his birth occurring in Ross County January 26, 1836, He was a lad of fifteen years at the time of his parents' removal to this county, and on the outbreak of the Civil War enlisted in March, 1 862, becoming a member of Company II, Second Battalion, P^ighteenth United States Infantry. He participated in many of the important engagements in this struggle, among which were Mumfordsville, Ky., Hoover's Gap, and Chickamauga. In the first-named battle, Mr. Horu was taken prisoner, but was paroled the following da}^ and exchanged. He was mustered out of service at the close of the war at Lookout Mountain, Tenn. AVhile in the army, he met with a serious accident by being run over by a horse and for six months was unfit for duty.

Returning home when his services were no longer needed on the field of battle, oiu- subject engaged in the mercantile Inisiness in Georgesville until 1872, when he disi)Osed of his interest in that line, and coming to Lill}" Chapel, this county, purchased a farm which he operated, and at the same time conducted a good mercantile trade. He had the honor of building the first house in Lilly Chapel after the town was laid out, and continued in business there until 1878, since which time he has given his entire time to farming pursuits. His estate, which includes eighty-six acres, is pleasantly located just north of the village, and by being properly cultivated, brings its owner handsome returns.

June 6, 1867, ]\Ir. Horn and INIiss Sarah J. Courtright were united in marriage. The lady was the daughter of the late Jesse and Mary (Brown) Courtright, natives of Franklin County, where the fatlier held the office of County Surveyor, and at his death, in April, 1874, was one of the prominent citizens of his community. Mrs. Horn was born July 1, 1839, and was the eldest in a family of ten children. She has taken an active and prominent part in church work, holding membership with the Methodist I-Cpiscopal denomination, and has been Class-leader and President of the Women's Foreign Missionarj' Society of the auxiliary at Lilly Chapel. She is a lady of culture and education, and prior to her marriage taught school for seven years.

Portrait And Biographical Record

Mary find Emma. Our subject has occupied a veryhigh position in local affairs, and while residing in Georgesville was Postmaster for seven years. In politics, he votes with the Republican part>', and by his good works has secured the unlxninded confidence of his fellow-citizens.

((( n t'ii"cleville, was born in Fairfield County, ^^^ seven miles from this city, where he now makes his home, the date of his birth being August 15, 1859. lie belongs to an old Pennsylvania family of Saxon descent. IIis grandfather, Jonathan Dresbach, was born in Berks County, Pa., and removed to Ohio in his young manhood, setthng in Fairfield County, where he improved a large tract of (iovernment land.

The father of our subject, Benjamin Dresbach, followed agricultural pursuits on the old homestead, where he was born and where his entire life was passed. His marriage united him with Miss Emil}^ Roby, a native of Pickaway County, Ohio, who died in Circleville in 1889. Her father, who was])Orn in Maryland, was a pioneer of Tarlton, this State, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits. Later, he moved to Bainbridge, Ross County, where he followed merchandising until he retired from active business life. Benjamin Dresbach and his estimable wife became the parents of seven children, all of whom still survive. The father died at the old homestead in 1883, when fifty-seven years old.

The fourth in the family is the subject of this sketch, and commenced his literar}' education in the district schools, and afterward entered the Normal University of Lebanon, Ohio, from which he graduated in both the Business and Classical departments. In 1884, he was graduated from the scientific department of the Universit}', receiving the degree of Bachelor of Science, witli the honor of being the Valedictorian and Commencement Orator of his class. In the fall of the same year, he entered the department of law in the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and was graduated in 1886, when the degree of Bachelor of Laws was conferred upon him. During his University life, he was a member of, and filled all the oflices in, the Phi Delta Phi, the only exclusively legal fraternity in the United States. He was also a prominent member of the Webster Literary Societ\', in which he was honored with various olficcs, including that of President.

Mr. Dresbach was admitted to practice at the Bar of the State of jMichigan soon after going to Ann Arbor, and, while in that city, besides carrying on his university studies, spent three months in the office of Judge Thomas M. Cooley, who was at that time revising his work on "Taxation." While in the University of Michigan, he was actively identified with the School of Political Science, and also devoted consideraljle attention to the studies of the regular medical department. In 1885, he was admitted to the Ohio Bar, and in June of the following year, opened an ollice in Circleville, where he has since carried on an extensive ])ractice.

In his social relations, Mr. Dresbach is a Royal Arch Mason and a Knight Templar, and also a Thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason, belonging to the Ohio Consistory at Cincinnati. He is also a member of Syrian Temple of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, at Cincinnati, Ohio. He is Past Chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, and one of the founders of the Elk Lodge of Circleville. Politically, he is an active member of the Republican party, the principles of which he considers best calculated to advance the interests of the people. He is conceded to be the best-i)OSted and best-read man in Circleville, his knowledge covering a broad range of ancient, raediieval and modern history, and classical and general literature. To the wisdom accjuired from books, Mr. Dresbach has added the culture imparted by travel and observation of tiie customs of various })eoples and nations. In 1891, he made a tour of Europe, visiting the principal points of interest in England, Ireland, France, the Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, Switzerland and Italy, spending five months abroad. Having previously gained a thorough knowledge of the history of Great Britain and the Continent, he studied every object of interest with the eye of the student and the scholar, rather than the superficial glance of the ordinary tourist. His fine library is not onl}^ large, but contains man}' rare and valuable books upon a wide range of subjects, and in this he constantly keeps up his classic and literary studies.

As an orator, Mr. Dresbach ranks among the most brilliant and ready speakers of this part of the State. As a lawyer, he has met with phenomenal success, and, in a few years after commencing practice, he had acquired not only a large and lucrative probate practice, but had obtained the reputation of being one of the best trial law^yers in the cit}'. The friends of ]\Ir. Dresbach know him to be more than a successful lawyer ; they know him to be one who is earnestly striving in all honorable ways to advance the material and social interests of the community in which he lives, and to conduct the practice of the law according to the strictest code of professional ethics.

There is probably no one of the public-spirited citizens of Circleville who is more in touch with that principle which has advanced the city along the lines of general culture than Charles Dresbach, and as such, he is honored wlierever known.

AMES WARD, a prominent resident of Walnut Township, Pickaway Count}', is a member of the well-known grain firm of Ward tV: Miller, who carry on an extensive business at Ashville. He is a native of Fairfield County, this State, his birth occurring October 16, 1844. His parents, Peter and Mary A. (Greek) AVard, were natives of Ohio; the father is now deceased. Great-grandfather William Ward emigrated from England to tlie United States previous to the Revolutionar}' War, settling in Virginia. The famih' came to Ohio in I8(J2, and located in what is now known as Walnut Township, Pickaway County. Four years later, a log cabin was erected on the farm which is the property" of our

Of the seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Peter Ward six survive, namely: Catherine, Mrs. Sidney J. Ward; Jacob; Eliza, Mrs. Wood; James, David, and Mary E., Mrs. Milton Morral. The father of our subject was killed by a runaway team in Allen County, this State. The mother still survives and makes her home at Carey, this State.

James Ward was only four years of age when his parents came to Allen County, and had reached the age of twelve when he made this county his home. After the death of his father, our subject was taken into the home of his married sister, Mrs. S. J. Ward, with whom he resided until reaching his majority. His primary studies were conducted in the comnK>n schools of his district, and were later supplemented by an attendance of two terms at the Normal School at Lebanon. He fitted himself to become a teacher, and followed that occupation for some sixteen winters and two summers, conducting the district school with signal success.

March 9, 1876, INIr. Ward was united in marriage with Harriet Cromley, who was a native of Walnut Township, this county. She was a daughter of Stephen Cromle}', an early settler of the abovenamed township, where he was a highly respected citizen. They have been granted a family of two children, Mettie and Myrtie, both of whom are deceased. Mrs. Harriet Ward died December 6, 1882, sincerely mourned b}^ all her friends and neighbors.

The original of this sketch is the proprietor of two hundred and fifty-eight acres of valuable land, located on section 17 and which bears all the improvements in the way of buildings and machinery which are known to modern agriculture. Mr. Ward is veiy prominent in his community and was candidate two different times for Director of the Infirmary. His defeat was owing to the large Democratic majority in the county, he being a stanch Republican. Socially, our subject is a Mason, and is also identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the (irange. During the late Civil War, he was a soldier in the one hundred days' service, joining Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Infantry. His regiment operated with Grant in Virginia, and at the expiration of his term of service, our hero was honorably discharged, having earned the appellation of Corporal. Mr. Ward is public-spirited and enterprising and possesses tliose personal cliaraeteristics whlcli make him warm friends and stanch adherents.

jyJj^^ON. TOLAND .TONES, M. D., of London, is not only distinguished in his profession as a physician and surgeon of more than ordinary skill, but he has acquired a high reputation as a business man and as a pul»lic-spirited citizen, whose name is inseparably linked with much that has contributed to advance the material interests of village and count}^ and to promote their welfare in a higher sense.

Dr. -Jones is a representative of a well-known pioneer family of Madison County, and he was born in one of its early homes, January 10, 1820, a son of Thomas and Mary P. (Truitt) .lones, who were natives of Worcester County, IMd. They came to Ohio in 1816, and after a year's residence in Ross County, removed to this count}' and township, and took their' ]5lace among its prominent pioneers who were most active in laying the foundation of its future prosperity and substantantial growth. Mr. Jones entered \\\)on his work of redeeming the soil from tlie wilderness with characteristic energy, first building a small log liouse to shelter his family. He brought a colony of twenty young men with him, the most of whom settled here and became useful citizens. He purchased a thousand acres of land, developed a fine farm, and continued to reside here until death closed his career. He was one of the foremost men of the county while he lived. He was Associate Judge of the Bench quite a number of terms, and was often Commissioner of the county. Though not a regular lawyer, he was well read in law, and was often called upon to do legal business for the people, such as drawing up mortgages.

deeds and wills. In politics, he was a Whig. The paternal grandparents of our subject were William and Sarali (Cropi)er) Jones. I lis grandmother was a daughter of Dr. Edward Cropi)er, of INIaryland, of which State both she and her husband were natives, the latter a planter, who lived in Maryland all his life. Both the Jones and the Croppers came from England originally.

Our subject is one of eight children, tlie names of the others being James J., William (i., Edward A., Eliza J., John E., Kendall P. and Edison S. In his 3^ounger days, the Doctor passed liis life on a farm and in attendance at tlie common schools, where he laid the foundation of a liljeral education. He later attended school at London and Springfield, and was subsequently a student at Orandville College. Deciding to lit himself for a physican, he read medicine witli Dr. Aquila Toland, of London, and afterward attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati. Having thus become thoroughl}' familiar Avith the principles of his chosen profession, lie entered upon its practice in London with bright promises for a Itrilliant career, as he had shown in his studies a special aptitude for his vocation. He soon acquired local fame as a sensible, practical physician, of ])rogressive methods, and his successful amputation of a ])atient's limb at the hii) joint brought him into wider notice, as up to that time there had been Init one other case of the kind successfully treated, and he received an honorary diploma in acknowledgment of his surgical skill.

The Doctor continued busih' engaged in his profession in London until 1862, when he laid aside his hopes and ambitions for a while to throw his energies into the great contest that was raging between the North and the South, and during the remainder of the Mar did invaluable service in defense of the Union. He took a company of soldiers to the front, was commissioned Lieutenant-Colonel, and was placed in command of the One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Infantry, and was in command as Colonel until he retired from the army at the close of the war. He displayed admirable qualities as a leader, was always at his post, and his unfaltering patriotism, unflinching courage, and bold, resolute front in time of danger inspired his men to do their best in every situation. He was first with Gen. Rosecrans, and later fouglit under Gen. Grant at Missionary Ridge. From Chattanooga, he went with Gen. Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and made a good record as a fighter in the various battles of that campaign. At Jonesboro, he was taken off Ins feet by a ball from the enemy's works, but he luckily escaped unhurt from various other dangers that lie encountered in the heat of battle, and returned home to his friends unscathed.

Our subject's military life extended over a period of two 3^ears and eleven months, and he then quietly resumed the practice of his profession, in which he reaped new honors. He was Surgeon-General of Ohio during ex-Gov. Foraker's administration, and he was foi'merly Surgeon for the Little Miami Railway. The Doctor has been exceedingly fortunate in monej^ matters and is numl)ered among the wealthy men of the county. He has handled his finances with coolness and caution, and at the same time, with farseeing enterprise, has invested his funds so as to secure good returns. He owns the Toland Block, in the village of London, which contains a public hall, a bank, stores and offices, and Toland 's Opera House. He has other valual)le property at this point, and he laid out .lones' Addition and Toland's Addition to the village, and has given an impetus to its growth in various ways. He wields considerable influence in local polities as one of the foremost Republicans of this vicinity, who assisted in organizing the party, and in 1866 and 1867 he represented this district in the State Senate, showing the same versatile talent as a statesman as in other departments of life. Mr. Jones was the Presidential Elector for his district nnd was chosen to make the report of the State Electors of the State, at AVashington, in favor of Benjamin Harrison. He belongs to the Loyal Legion of the ITnited States, is a JMason and a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.

Dr. .Jones and Miss Frances A. Toland, of this city, were married in 1846. Mrs. Jones is a daughter of Dr. Toland. who was one of the prominent and wealthv men of London. He was conspicuous in business circles as one of the organizers of the Madison County National Bank, of which he was President and one of the largest stockholders of the institution. The Doctor and his wife have had four children, three daughters and one son. Their son William P., who was a bright and promising young man, a graduate of Dartmouth College, died while attending lectures at the Medical University of Pennsylvania. Their daughters are Imogene, now Mrs. E. K. Stewart, who has five children: Frank, Handford, Margaret, Alice and Edward; Eva, Mrs. Graham, who has one son, Toland; and Bessie, Mrs. Riley, who has one son, Stewart.

,^^RTON A. SPERRY,attornc.y-at-lawand Not- I )j) ary Public of Mt. Sterling, Ohio, has the '^^^ honor of being a native of the Buckeye State, He was born in Wayne Township, Fayette Count3'^, December 27, 1861, and is the son of John and Sarah J. (Harper) Sperry, the former a native of Ross County, and the latter of P\a3'ette County. When OTU- subject was an infant, his parents removed to Shelby Count}', 111., where his father died in 1864. The mother, with her two sons, then returned to the home of her father, Robert Harper. Our subject's brother John and himself spent their boyhood daj'S in the home of their grandfather.

Orton Sperry worked at farm labor during the summer months, and attended the village school of Good Hope in the winter season. Thus his time was passed until nineteen years of age, when his grandfather began paying him for his services. He saved his money, and in the fall of 1882 went to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and took a course of study in Eastman's Business College, from wdiich he was graduated in March, 1883. It had long been his desire to read law, but his grandfather opposed this plan and compromised on a business course. After graduating, IVIr. Sperr}' found it dilficult to secure a position, and so returned to the farm, where he remained until the spring of

1885. He then embarked in merchandising for himself, buying a half-interest in a country store in Good Hope, but after eighteen moiiths he sold out and returned to the farm for his grandfather needed his help He remained on the old homestead until the spring of 1887.

In that year, Mr. Sperry saw his long-cLerished desire in the way of fulfillment. He entered the law office of AVorthington & Marchant, of Washington C. H., and in October, 3 888, became a student in the Cincinnati Law School, Entering the senior class, he was graduated in May, 1889, and then returned to Washington C. IL, where he was engaged in the practice of his chosen profession for one year. He came to Mt. Sterling in May, 1890. He had no influential friends or money to give him a start, and during the first six weeks his fees amounted to only twenty-five cents, but since that time a constantly increasing patronage has rewarded his efforts, and he is now doing a good business, his practice l)uilding up rapidly.

Mr. Sperry was married September 16, 1891, the lad}^ of his choice being Miss May Vance, of Washington C. H. She was born in Fayette County, Ohio, Mav 17, 1871, and is a daughter of I. J. and Mollie (Gibson) Vance. They have a pleasant home in Mt. Sterling and rank high in social circles. He was reared in the ranks of the Republican party, and is still a stanch advocate of its principles. His success is all due to his own efforts and he possesses the energy, determination and skill to win a jn-ominent place at the Bar.

physician of marked talent and abilitv, has been brought into close and kindly relation with his patients in and about West Jefferson, in which place he resides. He is the son of the late Uri Beach, who was born in Vermont, December 7, 1789. He tliere spent his early years, and in 1812 came to Ohio, and for a short time worked in Marietta, whence he removed to Worthington, and there, in September 1816, was married to Mrs. Hannah Noble Gorham. The couple then located in what is now known as Canaan Township, Madison County, where they made their home. Here the elder Mr. Beach erected a sawmill, which was tlie first in that locality, and which proved a great convenience to the early settlers.

The father of our subject was a man of great push and energy, who had a faculty of carrying out his plans, and putting them in operation. Seeing the great need of a Avoolen mill in iiis community, he erected a building, and was engaged in the manufacture of woolen articles for several years. In company with his brother, Lorenzo, Mr. Beach purchased a tract of land in Canaan Township, this county, and laid out the village of Amity, where his decease occurred January 1 1, 1832. His good wife, who survived him a number of years, died November 17, 1854, firm in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which denomination her liusband was also a member.

Tlie parental family of our subject included seven children, of whom Dr. John was the youngest Init one. He was born in Amity, in Canaan Township, Januaiy 27, 1829, where he was reared to manlK^od, and received his earl}' education in the common schools. After attaining his fifteenth year, he took a course of study in the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, and three years later began the stud} of medicine with the late Dr. Charles McCloud. Entering the Starling Medical College, at Columbus, Dr. Beach completed the course of study in that institution, and in due time received his credentials as Doctor of Medicine, being at that time onl}- twenty-one years of age.

Dr. Beach began the practice of medicine in Unionville Center, Union County, where he remained for three years, and then came to Plain City, INIadison County, where he made his home for five years, at the end of which time he located in West Jefferson, Madison County, in 1858, where he has since been engaged in active practice, with the exception of the time spent in the army. The following is a copy of the promotions of Dr. John N. Beach, which appear in the History of the Fortieth Ohio Infantry: "Surgeon, April 14, with rank from April 1, 1862. On staff duty as follows: Surgeon of the Third Brigade, Ann}- of the Kana- wha, in the fall of 1862, at Gallipolis, Ohio; Medical Director of the District of Eastern Kentucky in tlie winter of 1862-63, at Cattletsburg, Ky.; Medical Director of the Tliird Division, Army of the Ohio, in the spring of 1863, at Eranklin, Tenn.; Surgeon of the First Brigade, First Division, Reserved Corps, Army of the Cumberland, July 24, 1863, until after the battle of Chickamauga; Surgeon of the Second Brigade, First Division Fourth Army Corps, Army of the Cumberland, October, 1863, which position he held at the expiration of his term of service; Operating Surgeon in Field Hospital of First Division, Fourth Army Corps, during the Atlanta campaign, and was mustered out at Nashville, Tenn., December 6, 1864."

On returning home from the army, Dr. Beach again located in West Jefferson, where he has been active in various phases of political work. He believes in doing right at all times and under all circumstances, regardless of the opinions of the public, and his actions as well as his opinions have been characterized by manly independence. In the fall of 1875, he was elected to the Ohio Legislature on the Republican ticket, and served the full term of two years. In 1878, he was api)ointed Surgeon to the Fourteenth Regiment Ohio National Guard, which position he held for a period of five years, although, in 1880, he was commissioned Surgeon-General of Ohio, by ex-Governor Foster, being the incumbent of that position for four years.

Dr. Beach stands very high in social affairs, and has been Commander of Wilson Burrows Post No. 389, G. A. R.; is a member of the Loyal Legion of the Ohio Commandery; has been on the Staff of Gen. Hurst as Aide and Department Commander, and has also served on the Staff of Gen. Alger, National Ccmimander, G. A. R. Dr. Beach is a member of the Madison County Medical Societ}', also of the District Medical Societ}^, State Medical Society, National Medical Association, the International Medical Congress, and the National Association of Railway Surgeons.

The lady to whom our subject was married in Champaign County, this State, June 31, 1858, was Miss Eliza J. Snyder. She is a native of the above county, and the daughter of Daniel and Anna

(Kiser) Snyder. By her union with Dr. Beach, a family of two children has been born, the elder of whom, Edith, is the wife of Prof. John R. Rathmell, of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Anna, who married Charles A. Shinn, also makes her home in that cit3\ The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternit}^ and with his wife has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church for a number of years. They are both well and favorably known throughout Madison Count}^, and the tasteful arrangement of their beautiful residence displays the culture and refinement of its inmates.

LONZO C. WEST, proprietor of the Palace Livery and Feed Stable, on Market Street, between Fayette and Main Streets, Washington C. IL, is an active and enterprising young man and controls a good business. Fayette is his native county, Jefferson Township the place of his birth, and June 13, 1861, the date of that important event in his life.

Our subject is a son of Edmund West; a wellknown resident of Jefferson Township, of which his ]:)arents were early settlers. They had come to this county from Virginia, his native State, when he was a boy, and from that day the name of West has been familiar as connected with the rise and growth of Fayette Count3^ The grandfather of our subject lived to a good old age, dying in 1880. Our subject's mother was Mary Edge before her marriage. Of her seven children, six are living. The father of our subject is a stanch Republican and takes much interest in politics. He is prominent in the religious life of his community as a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

He of whom we write is the youngest of the faniil}'. After completing his education in the public schools of the county, he gave his attention to farming for eight years. Abandoning that calling, he came to Washington C. H., in October, 1891, to establish himself in the livery business, to which he has since devoted himself with financial success. His stable is well equipped and supplied with carriages, buggies, sleighs, and all vehicles tliat are in demand in a city like this, and the horses, which are well kept, are good roadsters, combining speed and endurance. Our subject conducts his business in a manner that has won the confidence of his i)atrons, iiis name is good in financial circles, and lie has a good deal of custom. He is a man of pleasant social qualities, and he stands high among the young Republicans of his native county in politics.

Mr. West and Miss Armeada A. Creamer were united in marriage Octo1)er 10, 1886, and tliey have made for themselves a home as comfortable and cozy as possible, and the scene of triie hospitality. Tiiree children complete their household: Mary, Nina and Roy. Mrs. West is a daughter of William A. Creamer, an old settler of Jasper Township, this county.

/:_^^0N. TIIADDEUS E. CROMLEY, A. M., the former popular, enterprising and useful Representative from Pickaway Count}' to the Sixty-eighth and Sixty-ninth General Assembly of Ohio, is at present residing in Walnut Township. He is a native of this count}', having been born in the above-named township, June 21, 1843. His parents, William and Sarah E. (Staige) Cromley, were natives, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Pickaway County, this vState. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Richard Staige, entered from the Government the land whereon the Hon. Mr. Cromley makes his home at the present time.

William Cromley emigrated to this State at an early day, from Lehigh County, Pa., and located with his father, Conrad Cromley, in Walnut Township, where the latter-named gentleman passed the remainder of his life. To the pai'ents of our subject two children were born: Thaddeus E., and Mary J., who is now the widow of William H. Morris, of Ashville, this State. Mr. Cromley was very prominent in local affairs and served Walnut Townshij) in the capacity of Trustee for several years. In his political belief, he was a Democrat and was warmly interested in all measures advocated by his party. At his death he left an estate of eight hundred acres of valuable land, a sufficient proof of the fact that he was a successful business man and a good financier.

Thaddeus E. Cromley was reared on his fatlier's ' farm and attended school in a little log cabin, with a puncheon floor, slab seats, etc., until about twelve years of age. P'our years later, he entered the Circleville Union Schools, there prei>aring himself for college, and in 18G1 became a student in Kenyon College, at Gaml)ier, this State. He took the full collegiate course and was graduated in 1H()5 with the degree of I>achelor of Arts. Three years later, the degree of INLaster of Arts was conferred upon him.

Owing to close application to his studies while in college, Mr. Cromley 's health failed him, and instead of choosing a professional life he preferred outdoor employment and became an agriculturist. He has always taken a deep interest in educational matters and served as a member of the School lioard for a number of terms He has been the recipient of various official positions, for a number of years being identified with tiie Town Council of Ashville, and Trustee of Walnut and Harrison Townships. He has been an active worker in the ranks of Democracy, and in 1886 was selected by that party as a Representative from Pickaway County. On the expiration of his term of office, he was re-elected, in 1888, serving until January, 1892. In 1890, he was nominated for Secretary of State, but was defeated by about ten thousand votes.

October 6, 1870, our sul)ject was united in marriage with Mary R., daughter of Isaac D. and Sarah A. Miller, the former of whom is deceased and the latter makes her home in Harrison Township. Mrs. Cromley was born in the above-named township and in her youth was given a good education. She is a most estimable lady and has many warm friends in this locality. Her parents were early settlers of Harrison Township and were born in the Old Dominion.

They bear the respective names of Charles E., Alvah M., MettaM., Amy L., Annie G. (deceased), Willie C, Anna M, and Thaddeus R. Mr. Cromley is the proprietor of a magnificent estate of eight hundred acres which bears excellent improvements in the way of buildings and machiner}^, for the owner believes that the best methods and latest improvements bring him in the largest returns.

The Hon. Thaddeus E. Cromley is a member of the Grange and the Knights of Honor, serving the latter order as Dictator of Lodge No. 3005. While in the Legislature, he was Chairman of the Cominittee on Military Affairs, and was Chairman, pro tern, of the Committee on Agriculture. He was the framer and author of a Farmers' Institute Bill, making the Farmers' Institute a permanent organization in different counties. He was also identified with tlie development and with the practical work of the Ohio Experimental Station, at present located at Columbus. These two bills, especiallj^, gave him a State repiitation and were the means of securing him the nomination for Secretary of State. As a Legislator, he reflected great credit upon himself and his constituents, the welfare of the public always being held in view by him in tlie light of patriotism. He is a cultured and educated gentleman, of high financial and social standing, enjoying the entire confidence of the public. The biographer found him to be genial, hospitable, entertaining and thoroughly conversant with the leading topics agitating the body politic to-day. We are, therefore, pleased to be able to place before our readers the life sketcii and portrait of so honorable and influential a gentleman, who is widely and favorably known throughout the State as a man of uprightness and thorough honesty of heart.

^( OHN M. SHAFFER, who combines the occupation of a manufacturer of drain tile, Iniilding blocks and pressed brick with that of a farmer, is residing at Sedalia. He was born in Jefferson County, this State, November 10, 1837, and is the son of Jacob and Christina (Coffman) Shaffer, the former of whom was born in

Soon after his marriage, the father of our subject enlisted in the State militia and participated in the War of 1812. He moved to Pennsylvania in 1827, locating in what is now Braddock Fields, where he followed his occupation of a blacksmith. His eldest child, Maria, was born in Shenandoah County-, in 1814, and the remainder of the family were Barbara, Anna H., Susan; Noah N., who was Lieutenant-Colonel in the secret service during the Civil War, Martin C, who was born in 1825; Ambrose B., in 1827; Margaret J., in 1830; Sarah Catherine, in 1832; Alex C, in 1834 and our subject in 1837. He of Avhom we write lived in Jefferson County until 1853, when he removed with his parents to Wheeling, Va. His father, in the meantime, had abandoned blacksmithing and operated a gristmill on Short Creek, in which line of work our subject was employed till he went to the Old Dominion. In AVheeling, he began clerking in a general store, which he followed for three years, and then remaved with his parents to Marion County, Mo., which was their home until the fall of 1859. While residing in the AVest, John M. worked in a woolen mill until the above date, when, the slavery question being agitated warmly ,tlie famil}^ came to Marietta, this State, and he began working on the Cleona Fruit Farm, owned by E. J. Plumbley, a good old Quaker gentleman.

In 1860, after casting their vote for Abraham Lincoln, our subject and his brother, Alex C, loaded a vessel with produce, which they marketed at New Orleans for Mr. Plumbic}', receiving $45 per month for the trip. It was a very dangerous proceeding, as men were shot down on all sides, and their lives were only safe when hiding in the bottom of the boat. They returned in the spring, and that summer Mr. Shaffer operated a drill, boring for oil in the vicinity of Marietta.

September 7, 1861, he of whom we write enlisted in Company L, Ohio Cavalry, under Capt. T. J. Patton, and was mustered in at Camp Chase. There he remained until, with his regiment, he was sent to Kentucky, and near Lexington waited until they received their arms. He participated in many skir- raishes and at the battle of Pittsburg Landing came up with the reserve on the day after the battle. He was wounded on the road between that city and Corinth, an artery being severed in his right leg just above the knee. In addition to that misfortune, he was taken with the fever, and being sent to the field hospital, remained there seven or eight days, when he was taken to St. Louis, and ten da>'S later to Camp Chase, thence home to Marietta. In December, he was ordered to Columbus, where he received his honorable discharge on the 10th of that month. He was at that time given a pass to travel wherever he pleased in the army, and fitting himself with a stock of goods, peddled his wares among the boys, thus furnishing tliem with man}' necessary articles which the}' could not have otherwise obtained.

.lolm M. Shaffer and Miss Almeda Sims were united in marriage August 6, 1863. He had first met the lady wlien a cavalryman, when siie was so frightened at the sight of the soldiers that, on being asked for a drink of water, she replied that she would go to the spring to get some, but the moment she was out of sight ran as if for her life. Mrs. Shaffer was born in Franklin Count}' seven miles from Columbus, August 24, 1845, and was the daughter of Edward J. and Sarah (Rose) Sims.

Our subject amassed quite a little fortune in peddling among the soldiers but he later lost it by investing in a panorama of Lincoln's deatli. In 1865, he removed from Columbus to Spring Hill, Madison County, and operated a sawmill for three years, at the end of which time he began the manufacture of tile. In 1881, he moved to Midway and established in that line of business, manufacturing pressed brick, building blocks, etc., having an income of about 13,500 per year.

Mr. and INIrs. Shaffer have become the parents of ten children: Rhodolp S. is engaged as a printer in Midway, and also is employed with liis father in the manufacture of tile; Ellen M.,Mrs. J. T. Crabb, lives in Columbus; Ora A. married M. J. Busick and resides in Chenowith, Madison County; Eva J. became the wife of E. J. Clawson and makes her home in Clarke County; Arthur died October 15, 1876; Leona, AValter H., Bessie P., Carl A. and Newell B. are at home with their parents.

Our sul)ject supported the Republican party from 1860 until of recent years, when he joined the Prohibitionists. He lias been Justice of the Peace six years, in Fairfield Township, Madison County, and Constable two years. With his wife, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which body he has been Trustee. Socially, he is a Mason and has been Chaplain in tlie Blue Lodge. He is also an Odd Fellow, and has been tlirough the encampment, liolding membership at Lilly Chapel and London. He is a charter member of A'incent Allen Post No. 678, G. A. R., and has attended the State National Encampment of tliat order. He is also a member of the Sons of Temperance and belongs to the (irand rx)dge of the State of Oiiio, of which he has been Chaplain.

(f^^j S. ALKlRE. A large number of the young f(({^>\ gentlemen of Madison County are occu- ^jfS^ P.yiiig positions of honor and responsibility in tlicir various townships, and are entering upon careers which give every indication of future welfare and affluence. Among this number is tlie sul)ject of this biographical notice, who was born in Pleasant Township, Marcli 1, 1865, and is successfully engaged as a farmer and stock-raiser on the old homestead where he was l)orn.

Tlie history of the Alkire family in America is quite fully given in the biographies of Abraham R. and Gabriel Alkire, presented in another porti<m of this volume. The former gentleman, who is the father of our subject, is one of the most prominent citizens of Mt. Sterling and a man whom everyone honors for his sterling traits of character. T. S. grew to manhood on his father's farm, where he early acquired a practical knowledge of agriculture, meanwhile receiving his education in the schools of Mt. Sterling, which village adjoined the farm.

After finishing his education, our subject carried on the homestead with his father until the latter moved to the village in 1888. He then divided the farm among his sons, the liome place of sixty-eight acres becoming the property of our subject, beside lliree hundred find eighteen acres in Darby Township, Pickaway County. The land is mostly in grass, which Hts it si)lendidly for the raising of stock, a successful department of the agricultural work.

September 21, 1891, Mr. Alkire was married to Miss Bessie, daughter of the Rev. S. T. and Sarah A. (VVallis) Morris, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. In his political afHliations, Mr. Alkire is a standi adherent of Republican principles, and cast his Presidential ballot for Benjamin Harrison in 1888. In his social connections, he is identified with the Knights of Pythias, having joined that order in 1890. A man of stanch integrity and utmost probity, it is not strange that his friends look to his future with great expectancy of honors and success.

\j? EWIS C. MALLOW. Prominent in social I /@i and business circles of Jasi)er Township, JLA\v Fayette County, is the family of L. C. Mallow, whose attractive home and beautiful farm is one of the finest in the county. His estate comprises the magnificent sum of eight hundred and eighty acres, all of which are under the best methods of improvement.

The father of our subject, Simeon Mallow, was a native of Ross County, this State, his birth occurring in 1813. His father, Adam Mallow, hailed from Virginia, where his father, also named Adam, was born, and where the family were among the F. F. Vs. The last-named gentleman was captured when six years of age, together with his mother, by the Indians, and was kept in bondage six years. The mother was traded, after a period of two years, to some Frenchmen, by whom she was taken to New Orleans, but later returned home.

The grandfather of our subject was Colonel of an Ohio regiment in the War of 1812. The maiden name of our subject's motiier was Jane Campl)ell. She was born in Kentucky, and was the daughter of AViiliam Campbell, who was among the early settlers of Fayette Count}', this State, where he was a prominent agricultiuist. Mer birth occurred in 1818 and after her marriage with Mr Mallow, resided for a time in Fayette County, and later removed to Ross County, where her death occurred in 1875; the father passed awa}^ in 1884. The}'^ were the parents of three sons and one daughter.

The original of this sketch was born March 3, 1840, in Ross Count}^ and was trained to the life of a farmer on the old homestead. His e<lucation was received in the schools of his district, supplementing the knowledge gained therein by a course of reading in later years. He was married November 23, 1863, to Eliza J., daughter of Andrew Haughey, of Clinton County, this State. To them has been l)orn one daughter, .Tennie E., who is the wife of N. B. Hall, and resides in Washington C. H.; she is the mother of three children.

Mrs. Eliza J. Mallow departed this life February 23, 1865, and the present marriage of our subject occurred December 28, 1869, at which time IMiss Ellen, daughter of James H. Hays, became his wife. The following-named six sons have been born to them: Orville S., Werter IL, Russell C, Earl L., Carl S. and Roy G. In May, 1864, Mr. Mallow enlifited in the Union army, joining Company C, One Hundred and Forty-ninth Ohio National Guards, being mustered in as Second Sergeant. The company went from Cincinnati to Baltimore, thence to Saulsbury, Del., to Washington, D. C, to Harper's Feny and Frederick City, being engaged in skirmishing around Washington and in Virginia and Maryland. He was honorably discharged in the fall of 1864, when he returned home and engaged in the peaceful pursuits of farm life.

Mr. Mallow, in the spring of 1863, came to Fayette Count}', and located on the Eustace Survey, where he made his home until removing to his present location on Webb's Survey, which he did in 1888. His beautiful residence, which was erected three years ago, is the finest in the township. It is supplied witli all the modern conveniences, and is finished and furnished in a style that shows its inmates to be people of ample means and cultured taste. Mr. IMallow has placed his entire estate of eight hundred and eighty acres under cultivation, and has caused many thousand rods of tiling to be laid. Large and commodious buildings add to the value of the place, and stamp Mr. Mallow as a wide-awake and progressive citizen.

Socially, he of whom we write is a member of the Masonic fraternity, being idcntilied with the lodge at Washington C. II. He is also a Knight Templar, belonging to the Blue Lodge and Chai)- ter. Mrs. Mallow is a Dunkard in religious matters, and is a very intelligent and highly-esteemed lady, who has done her full share in aiding her husband to attain his present financial standing in the agricultural community. Our subject votes the straight Republican ticket, and has served as a member of the School Board. He has also been Trustee of his township, and for six years was County Commissioner, having been Chairman of the Board. He has been a delegate to county conventions, and, all in all, is a very active and l)rominent citizen. When locating in Jasper Township, it was Democratic in politics; now it shows a Republican majority of seventy-five, of which fact Mr. Mallow is justly proud, as he has been a hard worker for the intei-est of that grand old party. He is a jovial, good-natured gentleman, and numbers his friends by the score. He carries on a mixed husbandry, to which industry he adds that of stock-raising, having about fifty cattle, one hundred and fifty sheep and thirty horses.

^ EREMIAH B. CHENOWETH, a retired farmer and stock-raiser of Range Township, Madison County, was born twelve miles from Columbus, in Franklin County, Ohio, September 22, 1816. His parents were John F. and Margaret (Ferguson) Cheuoweth. The father, was born in Kentuckj^ in 1792, and when twelve years of age became a resident of Franklin County, where his wife was born and reared, although her parents were natives of Scotland and were of Scotch-Irish descent. He was drafted for the AYar of 1812, but sent a substitute in his stead. He started in life a poor man and made rails by the hundred, but as fast as possible, invested his earnings in lands and became a wealthy farmer and stock owner. He was a Democrat up to the time of Jackson's administration, when he became a Whig and in 1856, he joined the Rei)ul)lican ranks. He was a stanch Abolitionist and a prominent citizen. He served as County Commissioner of Highways for many years, was Justice of the l*eace for twenty years, and was twice elected to the Ohio Legislature. He took great delight in hunting and was an expert marksman.

Our subject was the fourth in a family of fourteen children, of whom two died in infancy and one at the age of thirteen. The others grew to mature years and had families, while seven are still living, and with the exception of Lewis, who resides in Sumner County, Kan., all are residents of Madison County. Jeremiah remained at home and aided his father in the labors of the farm until twent3'-five ^years of age. He had exitected to receive some of the [troperty, but his father had to pa}' ¥30,000 security and so our subject claimed nothing and started out in life empty-handed. He was married September 23, 1841, to Miss Eliza Foster, of Range Township, a daughter of James and Margaret (Boyer) Foster, and a native of Ross County, Ohio, born August 2, 1824. They began their domestic life upon a rented farm, which Mr. Chenoweth operated for five years, when he purchased two hundred acres. This he afterward sold and bought a thousand-acre tract. From time to time his landed possessions were increased until the family has fourteen hundred acres, as Mr. Chenoweth has given a part of it to his children.

Unto our subject and his wife were l)orn seven sons and two daughters, but the latter died in childhood. James F., who was l)orn September 7, 1844,enhsted for one hundred days' service in the late war, returned home sick, and died soon afterward, at the age of twenty; John W., born September 9, 1846, is a farmer of Range Township, where he resides with his wife and two children; Daniel B., who was born January 10, 1849, was educated in the common schools and in Loudon, and follows agricultural pursuits; Nelson P., born April 26, 1851, is also a farmer and stock-raiser; George W., born October 3, 1853, was a farmer, and died August 4, 1887, leaving one child; Jeremiah 8., born December 11, 1855, is living in Range Townsiiip and has four children; Newton M., born December 25,1857, is married and resides in Range Township, lie has one son, Earl Ilix, born July 7, 188G.

]Mr. Chenowetli proudly cast his lirst vote for William Henry Harrison in 1840, and is now a stalwart Republican, as are his sons, with the exception of two who vote the Prohibition ticket. He became a member of the IMethodist Church in 1844, and has been Steward, a Trustee and Teacher in the Sunday-school for many years. With the exception of two of his children all belong to the same church. He has aided in the building of churches in this locality, and has given his support to all enterprises calculated to prove of public benefit. He is public-spirited and progressive and a valued citizen. liis ui)right life and sterhng worth have won him the conlidence and goodwill of all with whom he came in contact.

^ IDGE SAMUEL W. COURTRIGHT, attorne_v-at-law of Circleville, is one of the most iniluential and prominent citizens of Pickawav County, and is also widely and favorably known throughout the States. Through his profession, politics and Masonry, he has formed a wide acquaintance and is held in the highest esteem by all. His life record will prove of interest to many.

The Judge was born in Walnut Township, this county, December 9, 1842, and is the son of Hon, Jesse D. Courtright, who was born in Eairfield County, Ohio, May 5, 1811. The great-greatgrandfather, Johannas ^"on Courtright, came from Amsterdam to Staten Island with the first families of New York and was prominent among the Knickerbocker families of New York. The grandfather, John Courtright, was born in Pennsylvania. His father, Capt. Jesse Von Courtright, had dropped the title-prefix to his name on removing to Pennsylvania. He was born on Staten Island, and served as a Captain in the Revolutionary War. About 1802,

John Courtright emigrated with his family to Ohio, traveling over the mountains and through the forests with a three-horse wagon. He bought land near Royalton, Eairfield County, improved a farm in the midst of the wilderness, and was very successful becoming owner of twenty-one hundred acres of land. He built the first brick house in that vicinity. His death occurred at the age of eighty-four \^ears. He, too, had been a soldier, serving in the War of 1812. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Drake, was born in Scotland and came of the same family as Sir Erancis Drake.

Hon. Jesse D. Courtright, father of our subject, was reared in Eairfield County, and educated in the old log schoolhouse. When a young man, he married Sallie Stout, who was born in Washington Township, Pickaway County. Her grandfather, George Stout, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in this county in the latter part of the eighteenth century-. He brought his family and household effects in a wagon. Among his goods was a very large clock, which is still well preserved and is now in the possession of our subject. Mr. Stout became a prominent and wealthy farmer. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Courtright located in AValnut Township, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and successfully engaged in farming. He always followed farming and finally became the owner of some two thousand acres of valuable land. He served one term in the State Legislature and refused a re-nomination. He ran on the Democratic ticket and was elected over a large Whig majority. He also long served as Township Assessor and Trustee and for more than thirty years was Justice of the Peace. He was an Polder and leading member of the Presb3'terian Church, and was an iniluential and highly respected man. In 1870, he removed to Circleville, living retired until his death in Eebruaiy, 1873. His estimable wife passed away in 1881, at the age of seventythree years, flight of their nine children grew to mature years and seven are yet living. One son, Dr. George S., was a Surgeon in the regular United States army in Gen. Kit Carson's command, and is now a prominent physician of Lithopolis, Ohio.

and his early education was supplemented by a course in South Salem Academy, where he remained until 1861. He then began studying law in the otHce of the late David M. Jones, and in October, 1862, entered the Law College in Cincinnati, from which lie was graduated in 1863, with the degree of L. L. B. A few days afterward, he was admitted to the Bar, and, returning home, immediately opened a law olllce in Circleville. His skill and ability were at once recognized by his election to public olHce. In April, 1864, he was elected City Solicitor, and re-elected in 1866. In October, 1867, he was elected Country Prosecuting Attorney, reelected in 1869, and satisfactorily- filled the otHce. In 1870, he was elected a member of the Board of Education of the Union Schools, was chosen President and was successively re-elected for four 3'ears. In April, 1875, he was elected one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the Fifth Judicial District of Ohio without opposition and was the youngest Judge in the State. After serving a full term of five 3'ears on the Bench, he resumed the practice of law and has since devoted himself to his profession.

In Circleville, December 14, 1865, Judge Courtright married Miss Jennie IL, daughter of ex-Mayor Z. R. Martin, a native of Pennsylvania and an honored pioneer of Circleville. He served as Mayor for six 3^ears and was a prominent business man. Three children have been born to our suliject and his wife: Florence B., who graduated from the Circleville High School and completed her vocal and instrumental instruction in music inider Prof. Snyder and Miss Cranch, of Cincinnati, is an accomplished lady, now the wife of E. F. Dunn, the largest dry-goods merchant of Circleville. Jennie B., a {jupil in the Circleville High School, has considerable musical talent. Marguerite B. completes the family. Their pleasant home is a magnificent residence on the corner of Court and I'nion Streets. It is the largest and most tastefull}' furnished home in Circleville and is the abode of hospitality. The Judge also owns several valuable and well-improved farms in Pickaway County and one in Bloom Township, Fairfield County.

Lodge, Council Cha[)ter and Commandery of Circleville, and after serving as Grand Master of the State in 1876, 1877 and 1878, declined a re-election. He has been Grand Dictator of the Knights of Honor of Ohio and was thrice Representative to the Supreme Lodge. He is also Past Chief Patriarch of the Odd Fellows' society, and is a consistent and active member of the Presbyterian Church, of which he has served as Trustee. The Democracy finds in him a most ardent supporter, and his influence and power have done much for its upbuilding. From January, 1884, to Januar}-, 1886, he served on Gov. Hoadley's military staff, with the rank of Colonel, and rendered important service during the Cincinnati riot and at other times He was also Colonel and a prominent member of fiov. Campbell's staff from January, 1890, until January, 1892. The Judge is a most successful attorney. His quick powers of perception, his logical reasoning and his convincing arguments well fit him for the profession he has chosen. He has just been appointed b}- the Supreme Court of the State a third time as a member of the Ohio Board of Commissioners for examining candidates for admission to the Bar. The Judge is a large, well-proportioned and fine looking man, whose face gives evidence of that cordial and genial nature that has made him so popular. He is pleasant and affable, and, as stated in the beginning of this sketch, is undouliedly one of the most infiuential citizens of the count3\

^UDGE ISAAC N. ABERNETHY, A. B., A. M., Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of the Third Subdivision of the Fifth Judicial District, embracing Franklin. Pickaway and INIadison Counties, resides in Circleville. He is a native of Ohio, born near Chillicothe, Ross County, August 9, 1844. His grandfather, William Abernethy, was born in Virginia. He belonged to the F. F. V.'s and was of I]nglish descent. He came with his family to Ohio and died in Ross County. James Abernethy, father of our subject, came with his parents to this State. He married Rhoda Connor, also a native of Vii'ginia. In 1848, he came to Pickaway Count>' and rented a farm near Darby ville. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1890, at the age of eighty 3'ears, he owned two hundred and fifty-eight acres of valuable land. He was a prominent member of tiie Methodist Church and served as Class-leader. In politics, he was a Democrat. His wife died in 1856.

Our subject was the third in a family of four children, all of whom reside in Pickaway County. His first recollections are of Darbyville. His early education was acquired in a logschoolhouse, but he made the most of his opportunities and at tiie age of sixteen secured a teacher's certificate. He afterward engaged in teaching, then started to college. In order to pay his tuition, he engaged in teaching and in raising water melons. In the year 1860, he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University from which he was graduated in June, 1866, with the degree of A. B., and subsequently the degree of A. M. was conferred upon him. Wishing to make the practice of law his life work, he began studying with Alfred Yaple, now ex-Judge of Cincinnati. He afterward studied with Hon. R. A. Plarrison, one of the leading attorneys of the State, now of Columbas, and was admitted to the Ohio Bar at Chillicothe, September 1, 1868. For three years he was Principal of the schools in Mt. Sterling.

On the 8th of September, 1868, Judge Abernethy was married in Mt. Sterling to Miss Lizzie Busick, a native of that place, and a daughter of Ira Busick, who was then a merchant of Mt. Sterling. Unto them have been born six children: Ira, Charles, Harry, Rhoda, Bernard and Minnie.

The year succeeding his marriage, Mr. Abernethy located in Circleville and for a year engaged in practice as a partner of Mr. IIa3'es. In 1872, he was elected Prosecuting Attorney, and served from January, 1873, until January, 1877, The firm of Abernethy ife Grigsby was then formed and continued business for two years. In 1878, our subject foi'med a partnership with II. F. Page for six years, when the firm of Page, Abernethy A Folsom was formed, Mr. Folsom being a nephew of Mr. Page. In 1887, Mr. Page retired. In February, 1890, having been elected Judge of the Common Pleas Court on the Democratic ticket for a five-years' term, Mr, Abernethy entered upon the duties of that ollice. His rulings are wise and he has well demonstrated the fact that he is ably fitted for the office.

The Judge served as a member of the County Board of School Flxaminers for four years and was its Secretary for two years, when he resigned. He was twice a member of the City Council from the First Ward and was for some 3'ears a member of the City Board of Education. Socially, he is a Knight Templar Mason, and his wife belongs to the Methodist Church. Judge Abernethy owns a fine farm of one hundred and forty-three acres in JMonroe Township, in addition to the residence on North Court Street and other real estate, and laid out Abernethy 's First and Second Additions to Ciicleville, comprising over thirt}^ lots. He is a stockholder and Director in the Masonic Temple Association and is a stockholder in the Circleville Opera House Company. His life work in many respects is well worth}^ of emulation. He started in life a poor boy and by his own efforts has worked his way upwards to the proud position he now occupies. The Judge has been a lecturer in the law department of the Ohio State University for the last year on the subjects of mortgages and liens.

SA SILVER. In this biographical sketch will be recorded a few incidents in the life (IJ of a prominent resident of Jefferson Township, Madison County. The parents of our subject, John and Mary (Koontz) Silver, were natives of Pennsylvania, the father's birth occurring July 1, 1800. The mother departed this life in the Ke3'stone State, October 21, 1832, leaving a family of three children, viz: Richard, Henry and Asa.

The father of our subject chose as his second wife Miss Catherine Speaker, and to them were born eight children. A sketch of George T., one of the sons, will appear on another page in this volume. In 1854, the father of our subject united with the Baptist Church at .Jefferson, soon after which he was elected Deacon, of which position he was tlie incumbent at the time of his doatli. He was a very industrious and hard-woriving man and departed this life in .Tuly, 1882, leaving a large estate.

The original of this sivctch was born in Bedford County, Pa., October 25, 1831, and was a lad of six when he accompanied his father to this county. He has always resided in Jefferson Township, and since choosing an occupation for himself, has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. The lady to whom he was married April 26, 1860, was Miss Delilah, daughter of David and Nanc}- (Morrow) Bradley, and the sister of Quinn Bradley', of West Jefferson, whose biography will be found on another page.

Mrs. Silver was born in Monroe Township, this count}^, December 2, 1837, and by lier union with our subject has become tlie mother of three children: Myron A., Charles and Minnie. Mr. Silver has not been interested in politics, other than to cast a straight Republican vote during elections. Religiously, Mrs. Silver is a member of the Baptist Church and is active in all good works. Our subject owns four hundred and twentj' acres of good land, which is cultivated in such a manner as to place it among the well-regulated estates in this count}^, and lias adorned the place with all the needful buildings, not the least among which is the comfortable farm residence.

OSHUA HEDGES. Walnut Township, Pickaway County, is the home of many wealthy and influential citizens, not the least among / whom is the subject of tliis sketch and of the accompanying portrait. He is the proprietor of a valuable estate on section 16, which his industry and good judgment have placed under thorough cultivation, and which brings him in a handsome income.

dent, as he was born in this county July 18, 1832. His parents, .Jabez and Maria (Williamson) Hedges, were natives respectively of Virginia and Pickaway County, this State, and the father was a soldier in the War of 1812. He located in this State in 1803, making his home in Fairfield County. A year later, he came to this county with his famih', and made settlement in the woods in Walnut Townshi[). He was employed, as were all the pioneers of that day, in subduing nature, building cabins, clearing land, breaking prairie, etc., but with all that labor was social and hapin', having a care for the morals and education of his growing famil}^ Mr. Hedges died in 1880, having been preceded to the land beyond b^^ his good wife, who died May 13, 1868.

In Walnut Township our subject was reared to man's estate, and has followed the occupation of a farmer all his life. His education was obtained in the log cabin of that period, Avhich was carried on under the rate-bill system. He made the best of his limited opportunities, however, and is to-day an intelligent and well-read gentleman. September 13, 1855, Mr. Hedges was united in marriage with Sarah A. Hartman, who was born in this county May 4, 1834. Mrs. Hedges was the daughter of Jonas and Sarah (Iloffhimes) Hartman, natives of Penns3'lvania, who emigrated to this county in an earl}' da\'. When she was an infant of one 3'ear, her parents removed to Hancock County, 111., where she grew to mature years, and was given a fair education in the log schoolhouse with slab seats and puncheon floor.

To our subject and his worthy wife have been granted a family of nine children, eight of whom are living, namely: Clara, the wife of John Oman; Hattie, Mrs. W. A. Parks; Emma, who is a musical instructor in Nicholasville, Ky., being employed in a private female seminary; Chester, P>dgar, John, Claude and Anne G. Mrs. Hedges is a member of the Methodist P^piscopal Church, and is active in all good works. Our subject has been tlie incumbent of various positions of trust and responsibility, among which were those of Township Treasurer and Trustee. Since 1853, he has been identified with the Masonic fraternity, being a member of Pickaway Lodge No. 32, at Circleville. In poll- tics, he casts his vote and intlueiice in favor of Democratic principles and candidates, and is interested in all measnres that have for their object the upbnilding of his community. He has watched the details of improvement and the gradual evolution of his section from the original wild state to its present prosperous air of rural life. He owns over five hundred acres of valuable farming land, thi'ee hundred and twent}^ of which comprise the home farm. The famil}^ are among the old pioneer residents of the county, and occupy a high position socially in their community.

I]SRAP:L VALENTINP:. Among the old residents of Pickaway County, there is probably /li none more worthy of our attention than he whose name has just been given, for not only is he one of the pioneers of this count}, but he comes of that noble class of men who have built up its agricultural interests until it is a garden spot in the great commonwealth of Ohio.

Mr. Valentine was born in this county on the 26th of January, 1819, and is a son of John and Margaret (Zeiger) Valentine, both natives of the Eastern States. The father was born and reared near Baltimore, Md., and when a young man became desu'ous of owning some of the fertile soil of the liuckeye State. He came of Penns3'lvania German stock and probably inherited his thrift and energy from his sturdy and industrious ancestors. At any rate, he started out on horseback for Ohio early in 1800, made several trips back and forth, and finally located on the property no\v owned by his son. He bought part of this from his father-in-law (or he who subsequently became his father-in-law), old Jacob Zeiger, who was the owner of large tracts of land here. Mr. Valentine married Miss Margaret Zeiger, and this ambitious and thrifty young couple began housekeeping in a log house. They worked hard in their new home and gradually gathered around them many comforts and conveniences. To the original tract of land was added more from time to time, until at the time of Mr. Valentine's death he owned four hundred acres. His wife died about 1827, and his second marriage was to Miss Elizabeth Bowers, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio. Of the eight children born to the first union, only one besides our subject is now living, Jacob, of Circleville. Eight children were also born to the second union.

Reared on his father's farm, our subject became familiar with the arduous duties of the same at an early age, and he had fairly good educational ad- Vantages. He attended the old academy of Circleville and remembers the old mounds in the vicinity. Tntil twenty-two years of age, he remained with his parents, and then bought eighty-three acres of land in the same part of the township. In 1841, in Circle ville, he mari'ied Miss Caroline Stout, a native of Washington Township, Pickaway Count}', Ohio, and the daughter of John Stout, who was originally from the Keystone State. The latter settled in Washington Township, this county, at an early date, and became a ver}' extensive farmer. He passed the closing scenes of his life here, as did his wife, whose maiden name was Ann Myers, also of Pennsylvania.

Our subject and wife started out for themselves in one room of a two-story house, and the former bent all his energies towards clearing and improving his farm. Later, he added eighty -six acres to his former purchase, operated both, and as success crowned his efforts on all sides, he purchased the old Stout Farm of two hundred acres. This was in AVashington Township, about four miles from Circleville, and he rented it to his sons. He also purchased the Markle Farm of one hundred and five acres in Circleville Township, cm which were many improvements, and the old Zearing place of over eighty acres, in Fairfield County. Since then he has purchased the Ruby Farm of two hundred acres in Washington Townshi[), and is now the owner of over seven hundred and sixty acres of good land. For the most of this he paid $55, $70 and $100, per acre, all lieing well-improved farms. Since 1887, he has given much of his land to his children, but he retains one hundred acres of the Stout Farm and the two home places. He has been very successful in farming and the buildings and other improvements on his farms are substantial and of the latest designs. Fine groves and large orchards are on all his farms and running streams furnish plenty of water for the stock. Mr. Valentine's estimal)le wife, the sharer of his joys and sorrows, died on the 11th of August, 1887, when sixt^'-five years of age. Although well along in years, our sultject is still hale and hearty, and is a most pleasant and agreeable gentleman to meet. His marriage resulted in the birth of seven sons and four daughters: William, a farmer in Washington Township, this county; L\'dia A., who died here when thirty-seven years of age; Lizzie, at home; John, who died in Fairfield County, Ohio, when forty-one years of age; George, a fanner, who resides in Washington Township; James, a farmer residing in Harrison Township, this county; Mary, now Mrs. Metzgar, residing in Circleville Township; Emanuel, who farms in Washingtown Township, this county; Sarah E., who died when four years of age; and I^dward and Israel, Jr., twins, wiio are engaged in farming in Washington Townshii). iMr. Valentine is a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Circleville and assisted with his means to build a church. In politics, he is a Democrat.

^( OIIN C. CAPPS. One of the pleasant homes in Perry Township, Faj^ette County, is that of Mr. Capps, which is jointly presided over (^^' by Mr. Capps and his daughter, Mrs. Todhunter. Our subject is the son of William Capps, who was born in A^irginia in 1792, and was a son of Humphrey Capps, who hailed from North Carolina and served seven years in the Revolutionary War. William Capps was a soldier in the War of 1812.

The maiden name of our subject's mother was Margaret Pope. She was born in Virginia in 1799 and was the daughter of William Pope. Both parents came to the Buckej^e State with their respective families when quite young, Mr. Capps coming as early as 1800. They were married in Highland County, where they made their home for a number of years, removing to Indiana in 1826. They made Morgan County, that State, their home for a ])eriod and then tried their fortunes in Vermillion Count3\ Later they settled on a farm in Fulton County, 111., removing thence to Knox County, the same State, where they i)assed their last days, the father dying in June, 1875, and the mother passing away a j-ear of two before.

The parental family of our subject included thirteen children, five of whom are living. One son, Curtis II., enlisted during the Civil War in the Union army and died soon after in Knox County, III. Mr. and Mrs. William Capps were members of the Methodist Ei)iscopal Church, and, in politics, the father was first a Democrat, later a Whig and, finally, a Republican.

John C. Capps was born April 23, 1820, in Highland County, this State. He received a limited education in the district schools and began for himself when attaining twent}' years of age. He was married May 27, 1817, to Jane, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Rowe) Anderson, early settlers of the Buckeye State and natives of Virginia. Robert Anderson, who was a very zealous Christian and exhorter, established the first Methodist Ej)iscopal Church in this section. Mrs. Capi)s was one of a family of six children, and was l)orn in 1824, in Fayette County, where she received a fair education.

After marriage, our subject located u()on the farm given him by his father-in-law, in CJreen Township, this county, which he cleared and placed imder good cultivation. Thirty-three jears ago, he moved to his present farm, which ranks among the best in the township. Mrs. Jane Capps died August 12, 1885, after having borne her husband four children, one of whom is deceased. Sallie is the wife of Robert Todhunter and has had three children, one of whom is deceased. INIargaret married Levi Bryan, who is deceased, and also has had three children, one of whom is deceased. She later married William Eyre and resides in this township. Mary Jane married Ilenrj' Johnson, has had nine children, of whom one is deceased, and makes her home in Green Township. Robert became the husband of Anna White and died February 24, 1881. They had one child.

Mr. Capps of this sketch is a conscientious member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which society he is Steward and Trustee. He is very liberal in contributing of his means to its support and, indeed, is interested in all measures that elevate the standard of society in his communit3\ In politics, lie is a Republican and his interest in school matters has placed him on the Board. He did very effective work for his township as Supervisor, and is highly esteemed for his honest and upright character by all Avho know him. Mr. Johnson began in life emptj-handed and at the present time is the owner of one hundred and fifty-one acres of land, which his industry has placed in a very productive condition. His present position in the farming community has been attained largely through the good advice and economy of his late wife, to whom he accords all due praise.

eHARLES A. PALMER, attorney-at-law, has been an active practitioner of Washington C. H. since the date of his admission to the Bar, April 15, 1860. During the more than thirty years that have come and gone, he has established an enviable reputation as an able lawyev and honorable man, while his profound and varied knowledge of jurisprudence entitles him to be ranked among the eminent men of Ohio.

In what is now Jasper Township, Eayette County, Mr. Palmer was born, January 28, 1839, the son of William and Margaret (Whiteside) Palmer, natives of Virginia, who settled in this county as early as 1805 or 1807. William Palmer was prominently connected with the early history of Southern Ohio, and during the AVar of 1812 raised a company, of which he was Captain, and which was called out and served thirteen days, but was not mustered into service. In 1840-41, he was the representative of Fayette County in the State Legislature, to Avhich he was elected on the Democratic ticket by a majority of twelve votes, his opponent being Gen. B. Harrison, in a strong Whig count}'.

William Palmer accomplished much for the advancement of Fayette County by introducing thorough-bred Short-horn cattle, and fine horses. He was a pioneer in raising fine stock, the value of which he proved so conclusively as to create a sentiment in their favor. His farming operations were so successful that he l)ecame the owner of one thousand acres, most of which he cleared and cultivated. He was especially interested in the Agricultural Society of the county, and officiated for a time as its President. Having served his fellowmen both in public and private capacities for a long period, he i)assed to his rest at the age of four-score, and his mortal remains were buried January 1, 1867.

The family of which our subject is a member consists of the following children: Emily W. Turrell, P] valine INI. llankins, Granville C, Mar}^ J. Houston, Margaret M. Smith, William H., Rebecca A. Cox and Charles A. The mother of the family died in 1865. She was a member of the Uuiversalist Church, which was likewise the faith of her husband. After gleaning a common-school education in Jasper Township, our subject was a student successively at Antiochand Marietta Colleges, and Miami University at Oxford, where his literary education was completed.

Having resolved to commence the stud}^ of law, Mr. Palmer entered the office of Judge Robert M. Briggs, of AVashington C. H., and after remaining there for a time, continued his studies in the Cincinati Law School, graduating in 1860. He was admitted to practice in all courts of the State of Ohio, and shortly afterward in the Federal Courts. Upon commencing the practice of his profession, he was alone until Judge Briggs left the Bench, when a partnership was formed, which existed until the death of the latter in 1871, since which year INIr. Palmer has practiced alone. His practice is extensive and lucrative, and he is the acknowledged peer of the best attorneys of the city. His political belief bruigs him into affiliation with the Democrats, which is not the popular faith in this section of Ohio. His party has twice nominated him for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, but, being in the minority', failed to elect him.

of Mr. Palmer, bore the maiden name of Jean M. Briggs, and is a sister of Judge Briggs, of whom mention has already been made. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Palmer, as follows: Robert B., private stenographer to (iov. Campbell during his term of oflice, now Assistant Secretary to the Committee on Military Affairs in Congress, and also the owner and proprietor of the Ohio States Register; Margaret P., wife of H. B. Maynard, of Atlanta, Ga.; Paul, who is engaged in farming in Clinton County; Helen, who is a student in the college at Painesville; Luther S., William M., Alice and Harrison B., who are at home. The members of the family are attendants at the Episcopal Churcli, of which they are devoted members. In his social atliliations, Mr. Palmer is a member of Fayette Lodge No. 107, Fa^^ette Chapter, F. ct A. M. He owns a splendid farm in the western part of Fayette County, where he has a fine line of trotters.

Judge Robert INIoore Briggs, lirother-in-law of Mr. Palmer, was so closely identified with him during the latter part of his life, that brief mention of his career will be of interest to the reader. He was born in Richmond, Va., about 1835, the son of Dr. Robert and Helen (Buckner) Briggs, and was named Robert INIoore, after his father and the celebrated English poet, from whom he was descended. His father, a very prominent physician of Richmond, died when he was young, and afterward he and his sister accompanied their mother to Ohio, to look after their landed interests.

Although he read medicine for a short time, Mr. Briggs showed such an aptitude for the law that he turned his attention to legal studies, and was graduated from the Cincinnati Law School. He commenced to practice at Chillicothe, but some time in the 50 's came to Fayette County, where he afterward resided. His aversion to slaver}' was so great that he and his mother and sister set free the slaves they had inherited from his father. Soon after locating in Washington C. H., he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Fayette Count}', and later served two terms in the Legislature, where he was an active and prominent member. He was next elected to the Common Pleas Bench to supply an extra Judgeship that had been provided for h} the Legislature. In that position he was noted foi his executive ability and dispatch of business, and attained eminence throughout the State. After filling the position for five years, he resumed his practice and continued thus occupied until his death in October, 1871. After the close of the Civil War, he followed the course of Chase, Greely and other eminent Republicans, and joined the ranks of Democracy. His wife was Catherine, daughter of Charles Robinson, and a niece of Bishop Merrill, of the Methodist Episcopal Chuix-h, and of the late Rev. Dr. Stuart Robinson, of Louisville, Ky.

r^^ OTTLIEB F. WITTICH. Wittich was the name of the celebrated son of the Ijlacksmith Wieland in the old heroic tradition, who, on account of his origin, wore a hammer and tongs in his coat of arms and a serpent on his helmet. He was the hero of the King P^rmenrich and Dietrichs Von Bern. Tiie old heroic traditions have contributed much to the diffusion of certain names, and there is no doubt that those who first adopted the name Wittich as a family name, did so in honor of the famous hero. The name is derived from "Wite" - the old High German "Witu" - meaning "woods, or forest." Hence, Wittich means man of the forest.

The oldest ancestor of our subject of whom v/e have any knowledge was Johannes AVittich, who was born in 1670. He was a Commissioner, or Superintendent, of Foresti'y in the service of the Prussian Government, l)eing stationed near the border of Bohemia. From there he was called to fill an engagement in the same capacity in the Dukedom of AVurtemljerg, where he served until his death, Avhich occurred about 1730. Probably the family seal or escutcheon, which is still used by some of its members, was adopted by him, for it represents a deer leaping out of a shield, with the initials of the respective member of the family using it. There is little doubt but that Johannes Wittich was the first one of that name in Wurtem-

The paternal grandfather of our subject, C4eorge Jacob Witticli, was born in 1710 and was a Lutheran minister and the son of Joliannes Wittich, mentioned above. His first charge was in Durnau in tlie Dukedom of AVurtemberg. In 1743, he was married to Maria Dorothea, daugliter of tlie Rev. V. L. Neuffer. To them six children were born, only one of whom grew to maturity. Mrs. Maria Wittich died in 1754, and the succeeding year, the grandfather was married to Clu'istiana Fredricks, daugliter of the Rev. J. J. Neubich, of Wurtemberg. Six of the twelve children l)orn of that union attained to old age. Of these, our subject's fatlier died July 2, 1839, when sixtj'-ciglit years of age. Mrs. Wittich departed this life November 3, 1775. In 1757, George J. Wittich took charge of the Lutheran congregation in Liebenzeil. In 1771, he Avas appointed to the cliarge of Wittershausen, where he died about 1785, in the seventyfifth year of his age.