Pickaway Township (part 23 of 49)

Emanuel Frederick Wittich, the father of our subject, was born in Lielienzell. After finishing his studies in the public schools, liis father intended to have him enter one of the professions, but when out horseback riding, he was thrown from his horse, and, falling on a stone, received serious in jur}- to his Ineast, which deprived him of speech for some time. On recovering from the accident, although regaining his speech, he was left with an impediment sufficient to prevent him from becoming a public speaker. He was then advised b_y his father to choose a trade, which he did by apprenticing himself to learn the business of a book-binder. In 1801, he established in business for himself in Ebingen, Wurtembcrg, a manufacturing town of about four thousand or five thousand people.

November 18, 1802, the father of our subject married Miss Maria Catherina, daughter of Johannes Wolfer. She was born in 1782, and departed this life in Circleville in 1841. Mr. Wittich continued in the book-binder's business, to which he added a stock of school and hymn books for sale, until 1836, at which time he set sail for the New World. Locating in Circleville, he engaged in his trade, taking in as his partner his son, Ferdinand F., and continued thus until his death, in April, 1839. The three children born to him were P'erdinand F., who died in 1861; Sophia, Mrs. Hartmeyer, who departed this life in Circleville when in her seventy-eighth year; and our subject.

The original of this sketch was born in Ebingen, Wurtcmberg, German}^, November 28, 1819. He began going to school when in his sixth year, and four years later, having had some instruction in vocal music, was invited to sing in a choir. About that time, he entered the High School, which was then called the Latin School, where he studied Latin, drawing and French, in addition to his other general studies. He was confirmed in 1838, and at that time, his brother Ferdinand F. having come to America, lie learned the book-binder's trade under his father, with whom he worked until receiving an urgent request from his brother to come to the New World. They left home June 20, 1836, going to Havre, France, via Strasburg and Paris, their party consisting of father, mother and sister's husband and child. They boarded the sailing-vessel, "Poland," which was commanded by Capt. Anthony, on the 1st of July, and after a tedious voyage of thirty-five days, landed at Castle Garden. They immediately came by way of boat to Circleville, where they were met by Ferdinand F., he having secured a position as book-binder in the office of the lleligious Telescope.

Gottlieb F. Wittich, on arriving at his new home, assisted his father and brother in binding seven thousand hymn books which the}' had contracted for. In May, 1837, as there was not enough work at their trade to keep them all busy, his brother secured him a position with Joseph P. Ma3'er, at Cincinnati, with whom he learned the confectionery business, receiving as remuneration for his services $4 per month for the first j'^earand $6 per month the second year.

In August, 1839, our subject came to Circleville, and, in partnership with his brother, started in the confectionery bvismess, which connection lasted for eight years, during which time they were very successful. Mr. Wittich has ever since been engaged in the manufacture and wholesaling of con- fectionery and ice-cream. In 1855, he erected the brick block where he carries on liis business, and which contains two stores, witli a frontage of fortytliree feet of ground. It at that time was two stories in height, but in 1882 he added a story, which with the second story is used for olHces. He occupies one store and rents the adjoining room. He is the owner of a handsome residence, located on Court Street. Mr. Wittich also owns considerable other real estate in the city and in Port Townsend and Tacoma, Wash., and in Chicago. He lias tlie finest confectionery store in the city, in addition to which business he has added a stock of toys. He is the oldest mercliant in the place, and now ranks among the wealth}' and progressive citizens of the county, having been the architect of his own fortune. He is a fine scholar, as well as draftsman and penman, and lias in his possession the onl}' original co])y of a l)ird's-e3'e-view of Circleville as it was in 18.'>(), when it was really in a circle.

In October, 1841, Mr. Wittich was married to Miss Henrietta, daughter of Col. Valentine Keffer, of Pennsylvania, who came to this county in 1805, and located near Circleville, on a farm, where he became one of the prominent and wealth}^ farmers. The grandfather of Mrs. Wittich was Jacob Keffer, who was born in Zeselberg, Germany, in 1734. Col. Keffer owned a portion of the original site of the city of Circleville, and during the War of 1812 served as Major under Gen. Joseph Renick. At the close of hostilities, he was mustered out with the commission of Colonel. He was very prominent in this localit}- and for ten years was a member of the Ohio State Legislature, his popularity being such that he very seldom had an opposing candidate. In 1840, he was Presidential Elector on Jackson's ticket. His wife was Catherina, daughter of Jacob Zieger, a pioneer of Circleville, and he departed this life March 9, 1852.

Mrs. Wittich died in October, 1871, having become the mother of nine children, eight of whom grew to mature j^ears. Albert is a fine musician and is located at St. Louis, Mo., where he is sole agent for the Estey & Camp Music Company; Melancthon is in business in Chicago; Theophilus is a Professor of Music at San Francisco, Cal.; Rosa married vS. C. Gamble, who is a prominent attorney in Circleville; Willis is a graduate of West Point and is Captain in the Twent3'-first United States Infantiy, stationed at Ft. Randall, S. Dak., and participated in the campaign against the Indians in Dakota; Ella is the wife of Dr. E. A. Mearns, Surgeon in the United States army at Ft. Snelling, Minn.; Edward is in the employ of his father and is a fine musician; Frank is engaged in the boot and slioe business at St. Louis, Mo.

Our subject has been a Townshi[) Trustee for two years and a meml)er of the School Poard for a period of thirty years, being the oldest memlieron the Board. In religious matters, he is a Lutheran, and votes the Democratic ticket.

»\EORGE W. VALENTINE, a native of Pickaway County, born in C'ircleville October G, 1844, is a farmer of much enterprise and practical experience, and has a substantiall}' improved, alil^'-managed farm in Washington Township that is classed among the liest in this region. Our subject is the fifth of the eleven children, eight of whom are living, of Israel and Caroline (Stout) A'alentine, of whom mention is made in another part of this work. He was born and reared on a farm, and obtained his education in the district school. He remained at the home of his parents, within the corporate limits of Circleville, until he attained his majority, and in 1865 began farming on his father's farm in Circleville Township.

In the fall of 1887, Mr. Valentine purchased the farm that he now occupies in Washington Township. It comprises one hundred and sis acres of land of surpassing fertility, which is under the best of tillage, the methods best adapted to the soil being employed in its cultivation, and a fine set of buildings adorn the i)lace, including a handsome and conveniently arranged frame residence. The land is well drained, having over two miles of tile, and it is admiralil}- adaj^ted to general farming purposes, to which our subject de- votes it. He has it well stocked with all kinds of stock of good grades, and from that source has a good income. Mr. Valentine is a thoroughly good man, whom his neighbors trust and respect very highly for his many virtues of head and heart. He takes an intelligent interest in political affairs, and gives his fealty to the Democratic party. Religiously, both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church, for whose support they do much.

Mr. Valentine was married in 1865 to Miss Sarah Jane Stout, a native of Washington Townshi]), and a daughter of Jeremiah and Caroline (Sitler) Stout. Her parents were Pennsylvanians, but they left their native State and came to Ohio prior to their marriage. He liecame a prosperous farmer, and is living in this county. His wife died May 15, 1890. Eight of their ten children are living. Mr. and Mrs. Valentine have been blessed in their marriage, which is an exnmple of a true wedded life, by the birth of three children, whom they have named Florence, Edson F. and Turney W., respectively.

"^ OB R. RENICK. The late Job R. Renick, who belonged to one of the oldest and wealthiest families of l*ickaway County, rose to prominence as one of its foremost farmers and stockmen, who controlled large landed and stock interests, centering in Jackson Township. At his death the county lost one of the truest and best of her native-born sons, who had ever been an honor to her citizenship.

Mr. Renick was born on the old Renick homestead in Jackson Township, where he always lived, Febrviary 9, 1820. He obtained his early schooling in the log schoolhouses that were among the first established in the county, and later attended the Blendon and Athens academies. His father was an invalid for six years prior to his death, and our subject and his brother, Thomas T., farmed the home place on shares until his death, and then they bought it, thus aggregating nearlj' twelve hundred acres of land. At his death, Thomas willed his interest in the farm to our subject. The latter once farmed very extensively, but subsequently went into the stock business largely, making a specialty of fine Durham and Rose of Sharon cattle, and of draft horses and roadsters of the best breeds, beside raising sheep. He was a first-class farmer, and he showed good judgment and wise economy in feeding all the corn that he raised, never selling but one load in his life. He was a man of splendid business endowments, and under his care his property increased greatl}' in value, and he also added to his landed estate, so that at the time of his death he owned seventeen hundred acres of choice real estate. The commodious frame residence, the finest and largest in Jackson Township, occupied by his wife and children, was built by him in 1890, but he was never to live in it, as he died February 19, 1891, just before the famil}'^ moved into it,

June 8, 1875, Mr. Renick was married to Miss Ella Rutter, a native of Circleville, and her devotion and companionship, with that of the children, made his last years his best and happiest. Mrs. Renick is a daughter of Jacob and Deborah (^Mc- Clelland) Rutter, who are natives, respectively, of Virginia and Pennsylvania. Her father came to this count}^ in 1831, and established himself in the tailoring business under the firm name of Rock & Rutter. He was engaged at that eleven or twelve years, and then turned his attention to farming, buying a place in Washington Township, upon which he lived a year. He stocked the farm, and though he returned to the city, continued to manage it for some years, and also bought another farm in Monroe Township. Subsequently, he entered into the hardware business at Circleville, carrying it on for some twenty-five j^ears with two other gentlemen, under the firm name of Rutter, Wolfley & Rains, the latter part of the time as Rutter & Wolfley. He now lives retired from active business in Circleville, but still retains a farm of two hundred and fortj'-one acres in Muhlenberg Township, which he rents. He and his wife have reared three children: Anna M., who died in 1864, aged twent3--one; Edward T., who died in 1887, at the age of thirty-two years, and Mrs. Renick. The latter became the mother of four children, but one,

Nellie, died in infancy. The others are Harry R., Job E. and John J. Mrs. Renick is in every way a most admirable woman, of pronounced ability and remarkable business qualifications, as is manifested by the skillful way in which she manages her large farm of sixteen hundred aci'es, and at the same time has a well-ordered household. She is a member of the Methodist Church, and her name is associated with its every good work.

Mr. Renick was a man of much strength of character, of a kind and loving disposition, who, although he saw much trouble in his life, bore it cheerfully, and was never disposed to make others help him l)ear his burdens, or to sadden others with them. He was not a member of the church, but was a true believer in religion, and gave liberall}" of liis means in support of tiie church and all good objects. One of his last public acts was to give a lot on which to build a Methodist Church. His fellow-men always found him kind and S3'mpathizing, and generous where charity was needed, and in his family' he was a devoted husband and an indulgent father. A strong Republican, he took a great interest in national affairs, and was influential in local politics. He was urged to accept the nomination for Representative to the State Legislature, but declined the honor.

occupies a prominent position in the agricultural community, owning eight hundred and ninety-one acres of land in Circleville, Walnut and Jackson Townships, which has been accumulated through his own persistent efforts and good judgment. In business circles he is influential, his word being considered as good as his bond.

He of whom we write was born in Walnut Township, this county, August 22, 1830. He is therefore acquainted with the gradual evolution of this section from the orisfinal wild state of the land to its present prosperous air of rural life. His father, William Bell, was l)orn in Ireland, August 13, 1802, and emigrated to America with his father, James Bell, about 1807. The latternamed gentleman was also a native of the Emerald Isle, and on locating in Pennsylvania, followed the occupation of farmer for a few yeai'S. The family later came to this county, about 1812, where the grandparents died, leaving a family of three sons and five daughters.

The father of our subject was the eldest son of the parental family, and after reaching mature years was married to Catherine Caldwell, a native of this State, who was born March 24, 1802. The date of their marriage was November 20, 1825. Mr. Bell followed farming in Walnut Township, along the Columbus Turnpike, and was thus engaged until he died, April 30,1851. Mrs. Bell passed from this life December IG, 1889, firm in the faith of the Presbyterian Church, of which body her husband was also a member. She was the daughter of Alexander Caldwell, a native of Ireland, who came to the New AVorld early in the nnieteenth century, and settled in this county, Avhere he was one of the early pioneers. Mr. Bell was Captain of a company of militia in early times.

Mr. and Mrs. William Bell were the parents of the following-named eight children: James, Jane, our subject, Ruth, William, Catherine, Caroline S., and one who died in infancy. Caroline S., who makes her home with our subject, is the only member of the family beside Mr. Bell who is living. The educational advantages of our subject, like those of most pioneer youths, were limited, but he acquired enough to give him an impetus to go on, and to-day he ranks among the intelligent and progressive citizens of the county. His father dying when he was nineteen years of age, the care of the family fell upon his shoulders, but he sturdily braved all the responsibilities, and started out to earn money to supply the necessities of life b}^ working out on a farm in Walnut Township, Pickawa}^ County.

The parental homestead included two hundred acres, one-fifth of which fell to the lot of our subject. In company with two brothers, he purchased the interest of bis two sisters, the three operating the farm in partnership for a number of years. They later pnrchased two liundred and twenty acres additional, of which, when divided, our subject took the farm which he now occupies in Circlevillo Township, and upon which he moved a few years later.

' October 25, 1855, Miss Minerva R. Reber, who was born in Fairfield County, this State, March 5, 1834, became the wife of our subject. She was the daughter of Thomas and Rachel (Allen) Reber, natives of Pennsj'Ivania. Her parents were farmers, and removed to Wyandot Count^^ about 1854, where the father still resides, being in his ninetieth year. Mrs. Reber died in 1891. Only five of their family of eight children arc living. Mrs. Bell died October 15, 1875, after having become the mother of nine children, namel}': Thomas R., Lucy K., Clara J., Charles, Flora, Rachel, Lyman A.,Mcttie M. and Annie O. The eldest son married Miss Ella Helvring, and is engaged in the grain business in Circleville; Lucy K. is Mrs. John D. Newton, whose husband is a farmer of Walnut Townshi|); Clara J. is the wife of Benjamin Renick, a farmer in Harrison Township, Pickaway Count}'; Charles married Annie Stine, and lives in Circleville Townsliip: P'lora became Mrs. Chai'les A'an Meter, of Savannah, Tenn.; Rachel married Arthur Wiggins, also a farmer in Harrison Township; Lyman A., formerly a stenographer in the dry-goods house of Siegel, Cooper & Co., of Chicago, is now in Denver, Colo.; the two youngest children are at home. They have all been given excellent educations, and occup^^ good positions in the community.

Mr. Bell was again married, September 17, 1885, this time to Mrs. Sally E. Valentine, who was born in Circleville, and was the daughter of Bentley Groce, who died in 1890. Mrs. Bell passed from this life in 1886, just six months after her marriage.

In politics, Mr. Bell is a Democrat. He was elected County Commissioner in the fall of 1887,and re-elected in the fall of 1890. His estate comprises the magnificent sura of eight hundred and ninetyone acres of land in Circleville, Walnut and Jackson Townships. A view of his home is shown on another page. His place is stocked with cattle, his favorite being Short-horns. His accumulations have been the result of his industry and good management, as he started out in life with but forty acres.

ONROE SCOTHORN. Occupying a high place among the pioneers of Pickaway County is the gentleman whose name we place at the head of this sketch. He is at present residing in Walnut Township, where he has a finely-improved farm and is living in the enjoyment of the fruits of his early toil. He is held in reverence liy all who know him and his name will be long remembered when earth shall know him no more.

Monroe Scothorn was born March 20, 1830, in Walnut Township, and is the son of Joseph and Hannah (Crum) Scothorn, natives of "Nlrginia. The paternal ancestors of our subject were of Scotch birth, while those on the maternal side are said to have been German. Joseph Scothorn was born March 4, 1796, and was nine years of age when his parents emigrated to Ohio, locating in the eastern portion of Walnut Township. There the elder Mr. Scothorn died, and Joseph made permanent settlement on a portion of the farm which is the property of his son, our subject. It was then in a wild state, but Mr. Scothorn set himself industriously to work to prepare a home for his family and clear and cultivate his land. He endured all the hardships known to that earl,y day, and has watched the gradual evolution from the original wild state of the land into its present prosperous condition.

Ten cliildren were born to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Scothorn, of whom we name the following: Elizabeth became the wife of Jackson Hoover; Monroe, Frank A. and Thornton. In the death of Mr. Scothorn, Pickaway County lost one of its progressive, successful and wide-awake citizens. The original of this sketch was reared to man's estate in the neighborhood where he is at present residing, and with which all his earl}' associations are connected. The hardships which they were called upon to pass through in their eari\' settlement here have made a lasting impression ui^on liis mind,

Monroe Scothorn has devoted his entire life to agricultural pursuits, and that his persistent industry and good judgment have been rewarded is assured by a view of the beautiful farm on section 8, His education, like tliat of most of the pioneer youths, was limited, he being permitted to attend the house of learning only a few montlis during the winter.

Februar}' 12, 1852, he of whom we write and Miss Margaret Morrison were united in marriage. Mrs. Scothorn was born in Lancaster County, Pa.. April 23, 1833, and was the daughter of George and P^lizabeth (Crawson) Morrison. She accompanied her parents on their removal to Fairfield County, this State, being at that time only three 3'ears of age. Mr. and Mrs. Morrison resided in the above-named place for several years and then came to Walnut Township, this county, where they were numbered among the early residents, and where they passed their last days. They were the parents of a familj^ of nine children, only five of whom survive, viz: Mrs. Scothorn; James; Rachel, Mrs. Wilson Newton; George and Samuel. Mr. Morrison was Justice of the Peace in his community, and was otherwise warmly interested in all townshi]) affairs.

To our subject and his estimable wife have been born six children, all of whom, with one exception, are living, namelj': Ollie, Mrs. P. E. Hoover; George; Emma, the wife of J. L. Hoover; Lida C., who married C. F. Brinker, and Ira M. Mr. Scothorn is the possessor of an estate which includes one hundred and fort3'-nine acres of valuable land. His progressiveness and enterprise have led him to place that entire amount under good cultivation, which not only makes a beautiful spot in the landscape of Walnut Township, but is the source of a handsome income to its owner. He is practically self-made, as his accumulations are the result of his good judgment and industry. With his wife, he is a member in good standing of the United Bi-ethren Church, in which body he is an active worker. In politics, Mr. Scothorn votes the Democratic ticket, and is in favor of all measures tending to upbuild and benefit his community. For eighteen 3'ears he held the responsible otllcc of Justice of the Peace, and for three years was Township Treasurer and Township Trustee for a period of two years. He is now in advanced ^^ears and is passing his last da^'S surrounded by his children and friends, enjoying tlie confidence of all who know him.

TIIO W. LOOFBOURROW is one of the most active members of tlic farming community of Madison County and, l)y liis progressive spirit, has succeeded in placing his farm in Pleasant Township under excellent cultivation. In addition to raising cereals, he gives considerable time and attention to grazing stock, from which branch of agriculture he reaps a handsome income. His estate is located one mile south of Mt. Sterling, in which place he was born August 30, 184L

Our suJ)ject is the son of James and Jane (Gregory) Loofbourrow, the grandson of Thomas, greatgrandson of John Wade Loofbourrow, and greatgreat-grandson of Wade Looflionrrow, who emigrated from Scotland to America and settled near Ambo}', N. J. The date of emigration we are unable to ascertain. His descendants removed fronr Aniboy to Virginia about 1797, and from that State to Ohio in 1803. Our sul)ject lost both parents, also one sister and brother, b}' cholera in Jul}', 1852, and afterward made his home with Mrs. Elizabeth Williams until he was fourteen 3'ears of age, when he went to the home of M. I\L Thomas, his uncle and guardian.

When eighteen years old, Mr. Loofbourrow enlisted as a private in Company G, One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Infantry. He participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Wilson's Creek, Bentonville, and was with Gen. Sherman on his memorable march to the sea. After taking part in the (Jrand Review at Washington, D. C, he returned home in Jul}', 1865, and on November 19th of the same year was married to Miss Malvina Loofbourrow. This lady was born in Madison County, July 13, 1843, and is the daughter of L. P. and Elizabeth (Graham) Loofbourrow.

In addition to the farm above mentioned, Mr. Loofbourrow is the proprietor of a good tract of land in Fayette ('ount>^, and one two miles northwest of Mt. Sterling. lie has been the architect of his own fortune and enjoys an extended reputation as an al)le financier. He was elected County Commissioner in 1889, and has been active in protecting the interests of the people in the building of the court house, jail and sheriff's residence.

Tliree children comprise the family of Mr. and Mrs. Loofbourrow: Rena Helen, who was born in Mt. Sterling, September 24, 1866, is a graduate of the Mt. Sterling schools and also attended the colleges at Oberlin and Lebanon. October 7, 1890, she was married to Harry Fitzgerald and is the mother of one son. Lisle H. Milton Floyd was born in Fayette Count}-, April 17, 1872, and was graduated from the Mt. Sterling schools in 1891. Two years before receiving his di[)loma he was engaged in tlie bank at Mt. Sterling and is now studying civil engineering at the Ohio State University at Columbus. P.essie was born in Fayette County, September 9, 1H73, and was graduated in 1892 from the Mt. Sterllna: schools.

^^EORGE SPINDLER, a native-liorn citizen [II ^~ - , of Pickaway County, is one of the leading ^^i^' farmers of Walnut Township, where he has a good farm pleasantl}' located on section 10. Our subject was born in Harrison Township Januar}^ 30, 1845, and is a son of .John M. and Mary A. (Cummins) Spindler. His father was for many years, until liis death, a prominent and greatly honored citizen of this county. He was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1818, and was a son of Mathias and Elizabeth Spindler, who were of German origin, and with whom lie came to Ohio when he was a 3-oung man. The family settled in Franklin County, wliere he remained a short time, and then entered the teacher's profession, for he was well educated, and he was engaged at that several terms, teaching mostly in Pickaway County. He subsequentl}' owned and operated a sawmill and a gristmill on Walnut Creek, on section 5, Walnut Township, where Ids widow still resides. He was an active figure m local public life, and was one of the leaders among the Republicans. Although tlie majority of his fellow- townsmen did not agree with him in politics, they honored him as a man, and occasionally showed their confidence in him by electing lum to some important office. He served as Justice of the Peace upwards of twenty years, and he also was Trustee of Walnut Township at one time. He was once brought forward as candidate for Representative, but being on the Republican ticket, he was defeated on account of liis Republicanism. He was public-spirited and progressive, and earnestl}' in favor of whatever would elevate society or advance the interests of the count}'. He was identified with the Grange as an Intel Hgent member, and he was a valued member of the Metliodist Episcopal Church, in which he held the office of Trustee for several years. In his death, September 9, 1880, the communit}' suffered a severe loss.

The mother of our subject was born in Harrison Township, in 1821, and is a daughter of William and Mary Cummins, early settlers of that township. She is the mother of eleven children, of whom seven are living, namely: George, John W.; Mary J., wifeof William Hummel; Ann E.; Emma, wife of George C. Morrison; fvlizabeth, wife of C. S, Perry, and Luc.y. John W., who is a graduate of the Ohio Wesle3\an University at Delaware, is Superintendent of tlie Public Schools at Winfield, Kan.

George Spindler has passed the most of his life in Pickaway County, the famil}- removing to Walnut Township wlien he was very young. His early education was obtained in the district school, and at the age of sixteen he entered Wesleyan University at Delaware. He was a close student in that institution one year, winning a good reputation for scholarship, and then the breaking out of the war caused a change in his plans, and he was obliged to give up his studies. In the summer of 1864, he enlisted in the one hundred days' service as a member of Company C, One hundred and Fifty-fifth Oliio Infantry, and did guaid duty, principally with the Army of tlie Potomac, and was at the front about four month.s. His military career is commemorated by his connection with the Parsons' Post No. 670, (i. A. P., at Nebraska, Ohio, as one of its prominent members, he holding the position of (Quartermaster.

After leaving the army, our subject turned his attention to teaching, and won local distinction as an educator of no mean ability. He taught his first school in the winter of 1864-65, and taught continuously every winter until 1872, and one winter after that. He had a predilection for agricultural pursuits, and has since devoted himself to farming, doing a good business as a general farmer, and having an excellent farm of one hundred acres of land, which is well cultivated, and the improvements are of a good class. Mr. Sjiindler stands high in social and religious circles, and in him the Republican party of this section finds one of its most devoted adherents. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, which he served as Trustee, and he has done much for the welfare of the church.

The marriage of our subject with Miss Alice A. Culp was celebrated Ma}^ 11, 1869, and has been productive of mutual felicity. Among its blessings arc the five children that have been born to them, to whom they have given these names: Charles E., Delia, Mamie S., Emma A. and John L. Mrs. Spindler is a native of Walnut Township, and a daughter of Lewis and Sophronia Culp.

ENJAMIN HARRISON, a higiily respected farmer residing in Range Township, Madison County, Ohio, was born in Ross Count3% this State, February 8, 1815, and is a son of Batteal and Elizabeth (Scott) Harrison. Our subject is a distant relative of President Harrison. His grandfather, Benjamin Harrison, served in the Revolutionary War, and his father was a soldier in the War of 1812, under William Henry Harrison. He was born about 1780, and when he was a young lad his parents moved from Virginia to Kentucky, but he remained with an uncle on account of the hidians in the locality to which his father went. In 1797, he accompanied his uncle's famil^f to Belmont County, Ohio, where he was reared. At one time he went to join his father, who had removed to Missouri, but hearing that his mother was dead gave up the trij). He then joined the army, as ]>efore stated, and served as recruiting officer at Chillicothe, Ohio. During that time he was married, February 3, 1814, to Elizabeth Scott. During a portion of that time, he was Captain and commanded a compau}-. Our subject was the eldest of their six children, all of whom grew to mature years, and had families, while three are still living. Two sons, ]\Iatthew Scott and John Joseph, served in the War of the Rebellion. The latter was taken a prisoner and died in Georgia. Matthew was a Captain, and after the war removed to Saline County, IMo., where he died.

Benjamin Harrison was taken by his parents to Fayette County when less than a 3ear old. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and has since given his attention to farming and stock-raising. As a companion and helpmate on life's joiu'uey, he chose Miss IMartha M. Reeves, of Range Township. She was born October 30, 1815, and is a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Howsman) Reeves, the former a native of JMaryland and the latter of Virginia. The union of our subject and his wife was celebrated INIarch 9, 1837, and unto them have been born five children, four yet living: Mary E., l)orn April 12, 1838, is the wife of S. W. Lrown, of Fayette County, by whom she has two children; Batteal, born November 6, 1839, was married and died January 19, 1890, leaving five children; Angeline, born October 30, 1841, is the wife of M. L. Yates, a farmer of Range Township, and they have eight children; Isabel, born March 5, 1847, is the wife of Hon. Joseph Martin, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Winnie Scott, born INIay 12, 1850, is the wife of S. 11. Farrar, of Holden, Johnson County, Mo., by whom she has four children.

Fayette County, where be resided some thirteen years. In 1850, he removed to Paint Township, where he resided five years, and since tliat time has made his home upon his i)resont farm, purchasing seven hundred acres of land, lie is one of the extensive land-owners of tlie county, his possessions aggregating fifteen hundred acres, all in one bod}^ and situated in IMadison and Fayette Counties. By his own efforts, his success has been achieved, and from a humble position he has worked his way upward to one of affluence.

In 1830, Mr. Harrison cast his first vote for the Tippecanoe hero, and four years later again voted for him. In 1856, he supported Fillmore, and in 1860 voted for Bell and Everett. He has since followed the fortunes of the Democratic party, and has served as Townshii) Trustee, was twice County Commissioner, and in 1870 was Land Appraiser.

JARIUS J. BURNHAM, a native of Madi- ) son County, is one of its foremost citizens, possessing more than ordinary energy, "^ enterprise, business talent and public spirit. He is not only one of the most extensive farmers and stockmen of the county, but he is one of its leading civic offlcers, holding various important public positions, and he is widely and favorably known. His home is one mile south of Rosedale, in Pike Township, on his large and finely appointed farm, where he carries on a big business in raising various kinds of stock.

Mr. Burnham was born in the township where he still lives Ai)ril 3, 1848. His father, John II. Burnham, is a native of Connecticut, and a son of Darius and Lucretia (Hunt) Iknnham, who left their New E^ngland home when he was about two years old, and came to this county to found a new one in the wilderness. After attaining manhood, he was married, in Pike Township, to IVIiss Scelina Fullington, who was born in this township, of whicli her parents were early settlers. After marliage, the Burnhams located on an undevelo])ed tract of land, which he im[)roved into a fine farm, first erecting a log house for the shelter of himself and his bride, and afterward replacing it by a substantial frame residence. He became one of the largest land-holders in the county, owning at one time twelve hundred acres in Pike Townshi[). He now lives in retirement at Mechanicsburgh, where he is serenely passing his declining years in the enjoyment of the wealth that is the fruit of his early labors. The amiable wife who walked by his side mau}^ years, encouraging him in his work and performing her part as a true helpmate, departed this life in 1889. Unto them were born eight children, six sons and two daughters, who grew to manhood and womanhood, and seven of whom are still living.

Our subject is the third child and third son of his parents. He obtained the preliminaries of his education in the schools of Monroe Township, and finished his studies at the University of Delaware. He remained at home until he was twenty-one, and for a time was engaged in business with his father, trading and dealing in stock, and farming. October 4, 1876, he was wedded to Miss Mattie L., the eldest daughter of Henry and Eveline Burnham, of Pike Township, and her unselfish devotion to his interests has contributed not a little to his success in life and to his welfare generally.

After marriage, Mr. Burnham at once established himself and his wife on the pleasant location, six miles east of IMechanicsburgh, where they have ever since made their home. His farm of nine hundred and fifty acres of choice land, all lying in Pike Township, is considered one of the best in all Madison County. The most of the improvements have been made by himself, and are first-class. The land is well drained, as he has put in about twenty-eight miles of tile within the last fifteen years, and is continually adding more. He is one of the most successful and largest stock farmers in the county, and feeds now about one hundred and fifty bushels of corn to his stock a day. He has fifteen hundred shcej), two hundred head of two-year-old cattle, two hundred hogs, and thirty fine horse His farm is su})plied with a fine set of Iniildings, including a handsome residence, erected in 1877, and five neat dwellings for his work people,

Although his own private interests are so extensive and varied, our subject has liad much to do with the administration of jniblic affairs, and the same thoroughness, forethought, tact and able business management have been noticable features in the discharge of his civic duties that have ever characterized his course iu looking after his own concerns. He is President of the Central Ohio Fair Association, which comprises Fayette, Union, Madison and Clarke Counties. He is now, and has been for many 3'ears, Trustee of Pike Tovvnship, and no man has done more personally for its advancement than he. He is one of the Directors of the Central Bank of Mechanicsburgh, of which he is also a stockholder. In politics, he is an uncompromising Republican.

'\li OSEPH S. SMITH. In this popular resident of Circleville Township, Pickaway' County, we have the largest breeder of standard- \^^ bred horses in the county, and one of the largest in the Scioto Valley. He is a native of Circleville and was born June 10, 1861. His father, Edward Smith, is mentioned elsewhere at length in this volume. After attending the public schools of his native home, young Smith entered, in 1877, the Notre Dame University at South Bond, Ind., where he passed nearly four years, pursuing a scientific course, and also completing his studies in the commercial line.

After returning from college, the young man devoted himself to farming for some time, and after coming into possession of his present fine stock farm made his home east of and adjoining the corporation line of Circleville. His one hundred and sixty-five acres of land are situated on the borders of the famous Pickaway Plains and are watered by the stream known as Hominy Creek. The soil is a rich, sandy loam and is one of the best in the rich Scioto Valley. The care bestowed upon it keeps it up to the highest standards of that locality, which has so fair a reputation in agriculture and stock-raising.

In 1890, Mr. Smith erected one of the most beautiful and commodious farm residences in the county, which he fitted up with all modern conveniences. His barn is of uni(iue construction, being built seventy-two feet in diameter, with sixteen sides. In this can be stored full}- one hundred tons of hay and straw, and it provides f<^r the accommodation of a large number of horses. Nothing has been left undone to make this stockfarm a suitable home for the noble strains of horses which belong to Mr. Smith's stud. The most noted of his animals are '' Montjoy," " Winmont," " Col. Wilkes," and " Placidus," and tlieiipedigree is such as to make their owner justly proud.

The grounds about the residence of this prosperous man are handsomely laid out, and are to be shaded by elegant young maple, elm, and horsechestnut trees. A half-mile regulation race track is kept in elegant shape, and there the speed of the young animals is developed. He does his own training, and gets all the speed out of the animal that horse nature and good breeding have endowed him with. A specialty is made of breaking colts to harness, and plentiful accommodations are furnished for the animals of other breeders during the season.

The famous " Montjoy," who is registered as No. 13,003, stands at the head of the "Sunnyside" stock farm. He is a bay horse, and was foaled May 15, 1887, his sire being " (ien. Withers " and his dam "Alice Medium." liike all of the horses upon this farm, " Montjoy " is of the Ilambletonian strain, and Mr. Smith is the proud possessor of about fifty of these excellent standard-bred animals, counting horses and colts. From his earliest boyhood, he has evinced an inl)orn love of and appreciation for a fine horse, and he has shown exceptional ability in their care and breeding.

Other branches of business have not been overlooked by this enteri)rising young man, as he is a stockholder in the Circleville Electric Light and Power Company, of which corporation he is also a Director and Vice-president. In 1888, he es- tablished the Esmeralda Cornineal Mills, which are now owned and operated by the firm of J. 8. Smith it Brothers, a firm of which he is the senior member. These mills have x caiJacit}' of two hundred and fifty barrels per da^^ and their entire product is shipped to foreign countries. In his l)olitical views, our subject is a Democrat, but is not an aspirant for ollice, and no more active in public affairs than is alwa^'s becoming in a man who takes a genuine interest in the prosperity of his home and State. Mr. Smitli was married in Corning, Ohio, January 2, 1890, to Miss Mary Corcoran, who is a native of Frostburgh, Md., and a daughter of Thomas Corcoran, who was for some years Superintendent of the Sunday Creek Coal Company, and is now Superintendent of the II. D. Turney t*t Co. Mining Company, of Shawnee, This gentleman is an expert miner, and thoroughly understands prospecting for coal. He educated his daughter at the St. Mary's Academy at Columbus, Ohio. This 3'oung couple are the happy parents of one daughter, Mary, whom they ai-e bringing up in the faith of their fathers, that of the Roman Catholic Church, both being members of St. Joseph's Church at Circleville. Few men are doing more for the development of Pickaway County than Joseph S. Smith, and he is keeping pace with the older and better known stock farmers in developing the American trotter.

HOiMAS C. TIPTON, M. D., of Williamsport, Deer Creek Township, Pickaway County. This worthy gentleman is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Tomlinson) Tipton, and was born at Pleasant Ridge farm near Harrisl)urg Township, Franklin County, Ohio, September 10, 1827. He attended the neighborhood schools until his education had reached a point when he desired something better, and in 1844 he went to Delaware and attended the Ohio Wesleyan University. He was obliged to pay his own way, wliich he did by teaching school during his vacations, and thus was enabled to attend college five 3'ears. Applying himself closely to stud}^ he ac(]uired a good, thorough, general education.

Disadvantages were again in the way of our 3'Oung student, but he overcame them. He was unable to take, as he desired, a course in some medical college, but while teaching he devoted his spare time to reading and studying in his brother's office in Darbyville. He continued in this way for several 3'ears, and at length was enabled to go to Columbus, where he had enlarged op[)ortunities. He studied for a time under Dr. R. L. Howard, and entered the Starling Medical College, where he was graduated with high honors February 22, 1852.

After his graduation. Dr. Tipton went to Darbyville, and entered into practice as a partner of his brother. Some time after this, he removed to Williamsport, and has established himself in a lucrative practice, and has made his home here ever since, with the exception of the time he was in the war and three 3"ears thereafter.

In 1862, Dr. Tipton entered the army as Assistant Surgeon of the One Hundred and Tliirteenth Ohio Regiment and remained in that capacit3^ until the close of the war. At its close, he resolved to tr3' his future professional duties in Franklin County, but after a residence there of three 3^ears, returned to Williamsport. Dr. Tipton, as a man and a ph3^sician, is held in the highest esteem by his fellow-citizens of the village and neighborhood. He is not, nor ever has been, a politician or office-seeker, but takes considerable interest in all worth3' political movements. His vote is cast for the success of the Republican part3\ In religion, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he has been a number of 3'ears one of the Stewards of his church at Williamsport. The Doctor is a strict temperance man in his habits, and has never tasted liquor and seldom prescribes it.

The subject of this sketch was married to Marinda, a daughter of Horace and Jeanette (Wright) Loomis, and a native of Central College, Franklin County, Ohio, where she was born March 7, 1833. Three children have been born to this worthy' couple: Lizzie, born December 16, 1855, died September 22, 1867; Alice, born in November, 1857; and Thomas, October 24, 1869.

lENJAMIN FRANKLIN RENICK. Tlie agricultural element forms the backbone to every community, for upon its cliaracter and work depends the real development of the resources of that section of the country; and if enterprise, industry and integrit}^ are lacking, the whole body corporate will be lacking in vitality, strength and success.

Among the prominent farmers of Darby Township, Pickaway County, we find IMr. Renick, a portrait of whom appears on the opposite page. This county is his native home, as he was born in Jackson Township, December 5, 1808. He was reared on the home farm, vvhich at that early day was located in a wilderness, and encountered the many difficulties of frontier life. Indians were numerous, as were also wild animals, and the hardships which the family passed through have made a lasting impression upon his mind. He remembers distinctl}' the time two Indians came to their home and begged buttermilk, and on another occasion when two of them were found stealing corn, and he and a brother reminding them of their crime, one of them drew a large knife and pursued them.

Lenjamin F. Renick was educated, as were many of the pioneer lads, in the little old log schoolhouse, with its open fire-place in one end and slab seats and desks. It was conducted on the subscription plan, and the teacher boarded around among the pupils. Young Renick had to walk two miles through the woods in attending this temple of learning, which luxury was afforded him during the winter months only, as his services were needed u])on the farm in the summer. He was often sent to mill on horseback, and performed many similar duties. The family were not provided with many of the luxuries sudi as are common to the farmers of the present day, their main food consisting of mush and milk and corn bread, bvit little wheat being ground at that time. When a lad, our subject took a load of wheat, with a four-horse team, to Gallipolis, seventy-five miles distant, and traded one bushel of that cereal for an equal amount of salt. The remainder of his load he disposed of at fifty cents per bushel. Money being very scarce, his mother would provide him with a luncheon which would last one week - the time required for the trip.

When seventeen years of age, INIr. Renick engaged to drive one hundred head of cattle to Alexandria, near Washington, D. C, I)eing forty days making tlie journey. He later made many liips to the Eastern markets on the same errand, and often went to Illinois and drove cattle to this State. When reaching his majority, our sul)ject's father told himself and brother .lolm that he would give them all they could raise on two hundred acres of land which he owned near Darby ville. It is unnecessary to state that they willingly accepted the offer, and continued so employed for tiie succeeding ten years, in which undertaking tiiey were more than ordinarily successful, during that time handling considerable stock. Mr. Renick fed and drove to New York the first corn-fed fat cattle ever driven from Illinois.

In the fall of 1837, Mr. Renick purchased liis present pro])erty, which consisted of twelve hundred acres of land, almost all of which was in timber and brush, with occasional skirts of prairie. He made his home for several years in a hewedlog house, and when that was destro^'ed l)y fire, erected his present beautiful frame residence, which is furnished in a most tasty and comfortable manner. He had dealt very largely in stock, but meeting with reverses in fortune, was compelled to sell some of his property'. His specialties in stockraising were cattle, hogs, and sheep, having as many as one thousand head of the latter animals at one time.

In the fall of 18-10, Miss Sarah Williams became the wife of our subject, and to them were granted a family of four children, namely: INIillon. Vincent, Mary, and Cynthia. They all grew to mature years, and are now deceased. Mrs. Renick died when about thirty-five years of nge, and in 1855 our subject was married to Maiy Taylor, who was born in Madison County, this State. Of that union were born the following cliildien, all of whom are living, and named respectively: Sarah (Mrs. Dr. Kirkendall), Seymour, Amanda (Mrs. Carpenter), Job R., Jennie, at home, B. Franklin and Warner.

Mr, Renick is the possessor of two hundred acres of land, which his industry has placed under excellent cultivation, drained and fenced. The es- tate is managed by bis son Job, altbougb he giv^es his personal supervision to its improvement. He watched with great interest the gradual evolution of this section from its primitive wildness into cultivated fields and prosperous farms, and has done his full share in bringing about the transformation, having lived in Pickaway County for eight^'-four years. He is widely and favorably known throughout its limits, and his friends are as numerous as his acquaintances.

Religiously, our subject is a member of the Presbyterian Church. His views in political affairs lead him to cast his vote with the Republican party. He keeps thoroughlv informed upon current events of interest, and is well-read and intelligent. Notwithstanding the fact that this county has about one thousand Democratic majority, he was elected County Commissioner one term, and has served man}' years as Township Trustee and Treasurer. He took a very active part in the political campaign of 1840, at which time hundreds of horsemen attended the meetings. He has contributed liberally of his means for the development of his community, and is looked upon as one of the progressive and popular residents of the county.

^^^J reputation for progress as the facilities afforded both residents and visitors for transacting business and thus adding pleasure to convenience. Prominent among the establishments of AVashington Court House may be mentioned that owned and managed by Mr. Murray, and located at No. 228 East Court Street. The dimensions of the building are 110x22 feet, the first floor being stocked with a complete line of furniture, while the second story contains a well-selected stock of carpets. In addition to furniture and carpets, Mr. Murray carries on an uudertaking business, for which he has excellent facilities in his establishment.

C. and Emma (Allen) Murray. His father was born in Ross Count}-, three miles from the village of Greenfield, of which Grandfather Murray was a pioneer. He was a prominent citizen of the place, and there engaged in the harness and saddlery business for many 3'ears. Me and his wife reared a large family of children, concerning whom the following is recorded: Frank was a resident of Washington Court House for twenty years, but died at Topeka, Kan., in 1885; Owen, formerly a resident of Washington Court House, is deceased; Carrie married Fay Baldwin, who is Cashier of the Highland Count}^ Bank; Russell is engaged in business as an undertaker at Frankfort, Ross County; Samuel, who for fifteen years was a druggist at Washington Court House, now resides in Kentucky, sixty miles south of Cincinnati. Fannie is at Greenfield, and Harry resides in Cincinnati. The father and mother still survive and are esteemed throughout the community where the}' have spent their entire lives. They are faithfully devoted to the welfare of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which they are members.

An attendant for some years at the public schools of Greenfield, our subject has gained his education, however, principally through close observation and experience. After serving an apprenticeship of three years at the carriage-making trade, and later learning the cabinet-maker's trade in Greenfield, he engaged in business at Bainbridge, and was also for a time in the employ of Stewart it Meek, of Washington Court House. For six 3'cars, he carried on a successful business as an undertaker and dealer in furniture at Bainbridge, after which he sold out and opened a store at Washington Court House in 1884. It was not long until he had built up a successful business in the furniture and undertaking line, to which, in January, 1890, he added a carpet department. He has purchased the substantial brick building occupied by his store and exj^ects soon to put in a fine glass front and make other improvements.

A Democrat in politics, Mr, Murray has no time to devote to public offices, although qualified to discharge oflficial duties with credit to himself. In his social connections, he is identified with Temple Lodge and Fayette I^ncampment, L O. (). F., and the Knights of Pytliias. The lady who became the wife of our subject May 10, 18^0, and who lias since been his cheerful and devoted helpmate, bore the maiden name of Sina V. Logan, and was born at Washington Court House in March, 18r)8. Her fathei', Capt. Wilson Logan, was killed during active service in the late war, and her mother, who is a daughter of Judge Joel Bearman, still resides in Washington Court House. INIrs. Murray is an accomplished lady and is especially proficient in music, having been a student in the Conservatory of Music at Cincinnati. In their religious preference, Mr. and IMrs. Murra}' are attendants at and supporters of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are generous contributors to all charitable measures. They are the parents of two sons. Shepherd and Fay.

^^\ C. HELMICK, M. I). Among the prominent citizens of Commercial Point, Pickaway County, we find the name which appears at the head of this paragraph. He is well known throughout all this community, as. besides his professional labors, he carries on a drug store and is the Postmaster of the village. He acquired a more than local fame in the latter capacity last year, through the fact that he was presented with a gold watch b^^ the management of the Ohio State Journal, of Columbus, on account of having secured for their weekly issue over one hundred subscribers at his post-otfice. He is a most zealous and enthusiastic Republican and a stanch adherent of his party.

Dr. Helmick w\as born m Zanesville, Ohio, June 1, 1848, and his father, William Helmick, was also a native of Ohio, while his grandfather, Isaac, was born in Pennsjdvania, and came to this State at a very early date, locating in Franklin County. There he practiced his profession as a physician, and lived to a very advanced age. His son William was a keel-boat captain in early life, and took boats frtmi Zanesville, Ohio, to New Orleans. He also served as Deputy Sheriff for a number of

Rosanna Corbus was the maiden name of her who became the mother of our subject; she was a native of Maryland, who came with her parents, when only eigiiteen montlis old, to Zanesville when it consisted of only a few log caljins. Iler eight children were Isaac, Elizabeth, James, Augusta, Rose A., Anna, Jane, and our subject. Slie lived to reach the age of eighty-one ^ears, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church most of her life. Her father, W. Corbus, was a native of Maryland, and became a pioneer of Muskingum County, Ohio.

The village schools and Small's Commercial College, of Zanesville, supplied the educational advantages of our subject up to his nineteenth year. After graduating from the last-named institution, in February, 1869, he began to read medicine at Harrisburgh, Franklin County, under his uncle. Dr. Joseph Helmick, who gave his young relative the full benefit of his knowledge and experience. During the three 3^ears wdiich he spent with his uncle, the 3'oung man also attended one course of lectures at the Starling Medical College of Columbus, and completed his course in the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati the winter following, 1872. He located at Baltimore, Fairfield County, this State, where his uncle. Dr. Luke Helmick, had just died after a successful practice of forty 3'ears, and here the young man continued for three years.

Upon the 10th of November, 1875, Dr. S. C. Helmick located in Commercial Point and has here carried on a general practice since that time. His drug store was opened in 1881, and during the same year he received the appointment of Postmaster from President Garfield. This office he has held continuously since, Avith the exce[)tion of four years of Cleveland's administration. The drug-store building was put up by him in 1881.

The Doctor was married June 4, 1873, to Margaret C. Chenoweth, who was born in Harrisburgh, Franklin County, Ohio, September 15, 184(5, where her father, Elijah Chenoweth, Jr., was a farmer, and where he owned some twelve hundred acres of land. He died in Franklin County when about sixty-eight years of age. His father, Joseph H.

Chenoweth, was the first white child born in the Scioto Valley, and the family has been prominent in that region for many years. At one time they owned more than six thousand acres of rich land along Darby Creek.

Dr. and Mrs. Helmick have three children, Maynard, Arthur, and Sumner, all of whom are at home. The Doctor's extensive practice reaches over a large tract of countr}^ and his reputation is most excellent in the profession. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which they are very active, and he is a live member of the Odd Fellows' lodge. He has been a Councilman and a member of the Board of Education for a number of years, and lias held the offices of School Treasurer, and Trustee of the Methodist Episcopal Church. As Vice-president of the Central Ohio Medical Association, and as delegate to both State and National Medical Associations, he has been prominent. He has contributed papers before these associations upon the Clinical Thermometer, and upon various other topics of professional interest.

\l| OHN FRY is an intelligent and progressive agriculturist, with a comprehensive knowl- ,^^ edge of farming in all its branches, and he ^^^ keeps his farm in Pickaway Township up to a high standard of cultivation, so that it compares favorably with the most productive in its vicinity. Although long a resident of Pickaway County, Mr. Fry is a native of Hocking Count3', born October 18, 1837, and he is a descendant of some of the original pioneer families of the State.

The father of our subject, who was also named John Fry. was born in Virginia, September 17, 1796. He came to Ohio at a very early day in its settlement, and located at Lancaster in Fairfield County, when that city had but one house within its borders. He had come there with his father, a Virginian, who bore the same name as himself, and was a soldier in the Revolution. He died near Lancaster. The father of our subject became one of the pioneer farmers of the State, and for several years carried on his occupation in Hocking Count}'. In 1852, he came to Pickaway Count}' and passed his remaining 3'ears in Pickaway Township, dying here April 29, 1870. He acquired a goodly amount of property while a resident of Hocking County, and was quite an extensive land-holder there. He was also prominent in public life in that section, and for many years held the office of Justice of the Peace, and was an active member of the Masonic fraternity. He was married December 25, 1822, to Miss Malinda Friend. She was born in Fairfield County, November 22, 1802, and was a daughter of a pioneer family who had come from Kentuck}' to Ohio in the early years of its settlement. She died April 30, 1878, and in her death the Methodist Episcopal Church lost one of its most faithful members.

Our subject was the seventh of the nine children of his parents, of whom five are still living. His early education was obtained with some difficulty, as school facilities were limited, and sometimes he had to go four miles from home to attend the nearest school, which was taught in a log house. He came to this county with his parents, and alwaj's made his home with them while they lived, caring for them tenderly in their declining j'cars, and since their death he has continued to reside on the old homestead. It is a valuable, well-ordered farm of one hundred and thirty-four acres, pleasantl}' situated on section 10, Pickaway Township, and the headwaters of Pumpkin Creek flow across one corner of it. INIr. Fry is in easy circumstances, and makes good use of his money, getting some enjoyment out of life with it instead of hoarding it. He has broadened his mind, not only by reading and careful observation, but by traveling to some extent. In 1881, he went to Europe, partly for pleasure, and partly for the benefit of his health, which had become impaired b}^ too close application to his business. He embarked at New York on a North German Lloyd steamer, bound for England, and he visited London, Liverpool and other points of interest, making good use of every minute of the two months that he was away, and experiencing great pleasure and profit from his trip.

I'Ortrait And Biographical Record

Mr. Fry was happily married October 2G, 1879, to Miss Ida M. Cook, a native of Bloom field, this county. When she was a child, her parents, Amos and Elizabeth (Nigh) Cook, removed to Circleville, where she was educated. Her fatlier was the son of a Pennsylvania farmer, and was born and reared in that State. Her mother was the daughter of early pioneers of Ohio, and her father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and lost his life during that conflict. The greatest grief in the wedded life of Mr. and Mrs. Fry has been in the death of their little son John, who was born July 12, 1881, and passed out of life two months later.

^^^EORGE J. MAY is numbered among the [|j ( - -, intelligent and thrifty farmers of Pickaway ^^^^ County-, of which his father was a pioneer, and he has a well-managed and highly productive farm on section 21, Walnut Township. He is a native of Frederick County, Md., and was born June 1, 1832, a son of John A. and Magdalena (Rohrer) Ma}'. His father was a native of Loudoun County, Va., and was a gallant soldier in the War of 1812. His ancestors are said to have originated in France, while his wife's were Germans, and early settlers of Maryland, where she was born. In 1836, John May brought his family from Maryland to Ohio, and cast in his lot with the pioneers of Pickaway County, settling in Walnut Township, and proving a valuable addition to their working force. He did well his part in redeeming the country from the forces of nature, and when he died, April 5, 1887, he left behind him a golden memory as a good citizen. He was father of a number of children, of whom these five are living: Christian, John J., Frederick, George J., and Melinda, wife of Solomon Burget.

Our subject was a small boy of four years when his parents sought a new home in the wilds of this county, and his boyhood was passed in a log cabin amid the privations of pioneer life. He attended the early schools of Walnut, but the educational advantages in those pioneer institutions of learning were meagre. He was early inured to hard work, having to perform the pioneer labor of felling trees to clear the land and prepare it for cultivation, and the experience he then gained in farming has been helpful to him since he became a farmer on his own responsibility. He has control of one hundred and sixty-four acres of excellent land, of which seventy-six acres belong to himself, and the remainder to his wife. He is a prudent and capable manager, and keeps his farm up to a high state of cultivation, and has it amply supplied with a good class of improvements. He and liis wife stand high in social circles, and are among the most prominent members of the United Brethren Church, which he at one time served as Classleader, and he is now Trustee of the church. In politics, he is a straight Republican, and whatsoever will benefit the count}- meets witli his liearty approval.

March 21, 1858, is the date of the marriage of our subject with Miss Mary Heim, a native of Pickaway County, born July 31, 1840, and a daughter of John and Susanna Heim. Her parents were early settlers of Walnut Township. Tliey had three children, of whom she and her brother William are the survivors. Her marriage with our subject has been productive of mutual happiness and has been blessed with six children, named as follows: AVilliam, John L. (Postmaster at East Ringgold), Nelson H., Milton F., Calvin M. and Lj'man.

,^^EORGE W. PATTON. Among the prom iizens of Washis more worthy of note than he whom we here name, who occupies the responsible position of Sheriff of Fayette County. He was elected to that position in 1888 and so efficiently did he perform the duties imposed upon him that he was re-elected in 1890. He is a genial and friendly gentleman and exhibits rare ability in his special department.

The original of this sketch was born in Greene Township, Fayette County, January 7, 1840, and is the son of Arthur and Elizabeth (Wood) Patton.

The father iu early life was a farmer in Virginia and became identified with the interests of the Buckeye State in 1832. Our subject was given a good education in the common schools, and his father dying when he was a lad of ten years, he remained at home with his mother until his marriage, after which she lived with him vmtil her decease.

George W. of this sketch operated the old farm in Greene Township, which contained two hundred and fifty well-improved acres. He had not been interested in politics previous to his election to the olflce of Sheriff until being made the incumbent of that position. January 7, 1889, he moved into the city, which has since been his home and where his friends are as numerous as his acquaintances.

The lad3' whom our subject chose as his wife October 4, 1861, was Miss Mary D, Rowe, of Greene Township, this county, her birth occurring March 2, 1845. To them have been born a family of five children, viz: Elmer E., who is now the Deputy of his father; Minnie A., the wife of M. S. Merchant, of Dayton, this State; M. J., Zella Y. and OIlie, at home with their parents. In social matters, our subject is a member of Fayette Lodge, A. F. & A. M.

^/ OSEPII BELL. This name is not unknown to the people of Madison County, as he who bears it was born in Fairfield Township April 31, 1831. Allhough receiving only a common-school education, his natural mental ability caused him to advance in whatever field of labor he entered. He has held the office of Trustee of his township for three or four terms, was Assessor two terms. Clerk for one year, and was elected Justice of the Peace but refused toqualif3\ He has represented the Democratic party as delegate to various conventions and has alwajs been closely identified with the progress of the count}-.

son of James D. and Elizabeth (Dewey) Bell. The father was a native of Virginia, having been born near Richmond, and was brought to this State by his father, William Bell, who located in Ross County, where he resided for ten or twelve 3^ears and then made his home in Madison County, in what is now Oak Run Township. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and while residing in Ross County was married to Miss Dewey, who was Ijorn near Carlisle, Pa., and accompanied her parents on their removal to the Buckeye State when a child. The elder Mr. Bell was a farmer, and, like his father before him, voted the Democratic ticket. He was born October 6, 1802, while the mother of our subject was born June 15, 1804. He was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and wns active in all the workings of that body.

Joseph Bell, of this sketch, was the third in order of birth in a family of seven children. His eldest brother, William, is residing in Marshall County, Kan.; Jane A. married George Clouser and makes her home in Greenfield, this State; Benjamin is a contractor and builder of Columbus; Ann J. became Mrs. Leven Trout and lives in Sullivan County, Ind.; George resides at Sabina, this State, and while serving in the Union army lost one leg; James is residing in Allendale, this State. The parents of these children died in 1843, the father passing awa}" January 1, and the mother two months later.

Our subject was eleven years old at the time of the the death of his parents and was then taken into the home of an uncle with whom he remained for five 3^ears, and then began to work for himself. AYlien reaching his majority", he was the possessor of a horse and $100 in money. September 23, 1852, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Amos, who was born in London, January 18, 1833, to Robert C. and Mary (Wilson) Amos. The young couple resided for a year with the parents of Mrs. Bell, when our subject ei-ected a log cabin, in which they resided for a time, and then, returning to the home of Mr. Amos, our subject worked his farm in partnership for three years. At the end of that time, he again located on his own property' and there resided until the death of Mr. Amos, when they took up their abode on their present farm. Margaret, Mrs. Bell's only sister, married our subject's brother William and resides in Kansas. Mr. Amos was born in Mar3^1and September 22, 1801, and died Jul}- 12, 1859, while Mrs. Amos, who was born in Virginia, July 28, 1810, departed this life September 19, 1844. The present farm of our subject, which includes two hundred and thirty-five acres, was inherited by his wife from her father.

The following-named eight children have been l)orn to Mr. and Mrs. Bell: Wesley H., who died October 2, 1860; Mary E., who became the wife of R. N. Mowry, departed this life October 4, 1885, leaving one son, Joseph B., who was born September 12, 1885, and now resides with our subject; Emma J., who died March 22, 1866; I^va Ann, who married A. L. Fitzgerald, has one son, Freddie; Minnie F., who is the next in order of birth, is now Mrs. W. E. Talor; Sallie M. d<^parted this life May 2, 1876; James F., who is successfully engaged as a school teacher, and Lee Amos, who is at home with his parents.

W M.BALDWIN. A beautiful farm of three hundred and twenty acres, pleasantly located .^ in Madison Township, Fayette County, three ^^^^ miles from Cook, is the home of this wellknown farmer and stock-raiser. He was born on this place August 20, 1815, the land having formerly been owned by his grandfather, Capt. John Baldwin, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and a native of Virginia. While residing there and during those troublous times, he raised a company, pledging his own means for their pay. lie served through the entire war under Washington, receiving his pay in Continental money and a land warrant. The money being valueless, Capt. Baldwin was obliged to sell his possessions in the Old Dominion in order to keep his promise to the soldiers. Thus left without resources, he came to Ohio and located in Fayette County, where he was obliged to part with half of his land in order to get his warrant placed. His advent into the county was made in the spring of 1812, and the succeeding fall he was followed by his large family of fourteen children. Capt. Baldwin departed this life in 1820, his remains being buried on tlie ground laid off by himself on the farm which our subject occupies.

Jonah Baldwin, the direct progenitor of our subject, was born in 1773, and is the twin brother of William. He grew to mature 3^ears in A'irginia, and was there married, in 1803, to Mary Bland, by whom he became the father of eight children, viz: John, Catherine, Hannah, Margaret, J. M., Joseph, Susan and Nancy. The children were all given a good education, the sons aiding their father in clearing and improving the home farm. Mr. Jonah Baldwin served his fellow-townsmen as Constable, and his eldest son held the office of Justice of the Peace for a number of terms.

The father of our subject, who was born March 7, 1773, died September 13, 1850, while his wife, who was born August 19, 1783, departed this life October 16, 1886. Mr. Baldwin of this sketch is the proprietor of two hundred and forty acres of land in Adams County, Ind., and has purchased the interest of all the heirs of the old homestead, with the exception of his sister Margaret's share. Like his father and grandfather before him, he is a Democrat in politics, and during his incumbency of the office of Constable he performed the duties of that position in a most satisfactory manner.

Washington Court House is located on Main Street, oi^posite the Court House, and is under the able management of the owner and proprietor, the subject of this sketch. The building, which has a frontage of eighty-five feet and a depth of one hundred and sixty-five feet, is furnished with a complete stock of dry goods, the specialties being fine dress-goods, trimmings, ladies', misses' and children's shoes, millinery and ladies' cloaks. Employment is given to eighteen persons, and cash carriers and all modern improvements for facilitating the work have been introduced. The store has occupied its present location for ten

Mr. Stutson was born in West Jefferson, Madison County, Ohio, Januar}^ 29, 1851, the son of James and Mary J. (Wilson) Stutson. His father, who was born and reared in INlassachusctts, came to Zanesville, Ohio, when a young man, and there engaged in the mercantile business, being at one time the leading merchant in the city. About 1841, he came to Madison County, where he resided until his death.

Our subject received a good education in his native i)lace, and in iiis boyliood clerked for his brother, T. J., then a merchant of West Jefferson, but now President of the Central Bank of London. Our subject remained with liim until he attained his majority, when he embarked with anotlier brother in the drj^-goods business at Lancaster, remaining in that connection for some years. In 1881, they opened the })resent store in Wasliington Court House, and upon the death of his brother in 1887, our sul)ject succeeded him in the l)usiness, and has since continued at the head of the ilourishing establishment.

At the time of the cyclone, September 8, 1885, the firm occupied a large brick store on Court Street, which was completely wrecked, together with the whole stock, including a full line of new fall goods, causing a loss of almost $8,000. No lives were lost by the disaster, although our subject and eight others were in the building at the time of the storm. It fortunately happened that the present structure was in process of erection, and the firm transported their goods on wheelbarrows to the new store, doing business while the place was being plastered, shelved and finished. Since then, Mr. Stutson has enlarged the store to accommodate the increasing demands of his customers, and it is conceded that he has now the largest business of the city. The secret of the success which has I'cwarded his efforts ma}' be found in the fact that he has given his business his undivided and xniceasing attention.

The marriage of INIr. Stutson and Miss Mary E. Stimson, of La Fayette, I nd., took place January 3, 1884, and they have two bright and intelligent children, Clara Louise and Janet Lorain. In his social affiliations, Mr. Stutson is identified with Fayette Lodge, F. & A. M. Throughout his career, he has displayed due caution and care in managing his affairs, and at the same time has been bold and resolute in financial matters, his good sense, acciu-ate judgment and cool calculations rarely leading him astray in his transactions.

ellRISTIAN VOLKA. Among the thriving business establishments of La Fayette, Madison County, mention should certainly be made of that of which Mr. A'olka is proprietor. It IS devoted to the sale of general merchandise, is supplied with a good stock in each department, and is the seat of a fine trade conducted according to the most improved business principles. He is well known in the country contiguous to LaFa}^- ette, as he lias been engaged in trade here since 1865.

The parents of our subject, John and Catherine (Krouse) Yolka, were natives respectively of Germany and France. The}' accompanied their parents to the New World when young and when reaching mature jears were married in Columbus, this State. The father was a shoemaker by occupation, which trade he followed in that city, Cincinnati and St. Louis; he departed this life in the Queen City of smallpox. Only two members of the parental family lived to reach mature years, Catherine and Ciiristian.

The original of this sketch was born in St. Louis, Mo., November 25, 1837, and after the death of his father returned with his mother to Columbus, where he attended school. When a lad of ten years, he accompanied his parents to Deer Creek Township, which has since been his place of residence, and where, by the exercise of unflagging industry, indomitable en erg}' and ceaseless perseverance, he has acquired a competence.

Mr. Volka and Miss Lucetta Bell, of Champaign County, this State,were united in marriage January 8, 1863. Tiie lad}', who was born May 12, 1844, was the daughter of Dr. Daniel and Rebecca (Wagoner)

Bell, the former of whom was a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Bell had a family of eleven children; the father died in December, 18G8, in LaFa>'ette, where also the mother's death occnrred, November 29, 1858.

Of the five children born to our subject and his wife only two survive, viz: Nettie, now IVIrs. Robert Smith, and John C. Mr. Volka,when starting out for himself was employed as a clerk in London for several years and, being economical and industrious, he soon accumulated a sulllcient sum to enable him to launch out in business on his own account, and, as before stated, he has been connected with the mercantile interests of La Fayette since 1865. In politics, he takes a goodly amount of interest and votes with the Democratic party. He served on the School Board in Deer Creek Township, and under his active co-operation much was accomplished to benefit the public schools which he regards as the surest means of improving the race. The mother of our subject was a second time married, her husband being Christian Bierbangh; she is now deceased, her death occurring in this township in 1887.

ON. WILLIAM T. CONKLIN. Among the prominent, popular and influential citizens of Pickaway County selected for representation in this work, we take pleasure in presenting to our readers the biography and portrait of the subject of this sketch, who is a well-known resident of Madison Township, making his home upon section 23. He is a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, where he was born, January 15, 1817, and is a son of Joseph and Annie (Caton) Conklin, both of whom were natives of Washington County, Pa. His paternal ancestors are said lo have been from Wales, and his maternal ancestors are supposed to have come from Ireland. Joseph Conklin, the father of our subject, emigrated from Pennsj'lvania with his family early in the present century and settled in the new country in Fairfield County, Ohio, there taking up pioneer life. He di'ove all the way a team of five horses and his wife journeyed on horseback, carrying a small child in her arms all through that long journey. He died in 1822 and his widow afterward married James Lambert. In 1825, William T. Conklin, with his mother, his stepfather and the children of the family, came to Pickaway County, Ohio, where he settled on section 14, Madison Township and grew to man's estate amid scenes of pioneer life. He has seen the deer and wild turkeys around his home in great numbers, and has experienced the hardshii)S of pioneer life. Only two of the children of his parents now survive, his only sister living being I'riscilla, wife of Thomas Black.

With the exception of two years spent in the mercantile business at Ashville, Ohio, our subject has throughout life engaged in agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. His education was received in the early schools of Madison Township, and for a short time he studied in Central College, Franklin County. During five winters he devoted himself to teaching, in which he was verj" successful, and he has throughout life maintained a course of reading which has had a broadening and educative tendency.

Mr. Conklin was married in June, 1859, to Elizabeth Baum, who was born in Madison Townsliip, Pickaway County, IMarch 9, 1825. Her parents. Christian and Sarah (Shook) Baum, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were early settlers in this county, making their home in the forest among the earliest pioneers. Six of their seven children are still living, namely: Joseph, George, Lewis, Mrs. Conklin, John, and Mary (the wife of Samuel Posey).

To Mr. and Mrs, Conklin were born three children, two of whom still survive, namely: Sarah A., wife of Dr. Charles R. Pontius, who is a practicing ph^'sician at Fremont, Ohio, and Martha S., the wife of T. W. Baum, of Madison Township, this county. For many years Mr. Conklin served as Justice of the Peace, for sixteen years as Township Treasurer, and for one year as Township Trustee.

The broader political career of the Hon. Mr. Conklin began with his election to the State Legislature, where he served as a member from Pickaway County to the F'ifty-ninth and Sixt}-- first General Assembly, being a member of the House of Representatives. He was an earnest and successful advocate of the measin-e to secui'c an additional judge in his district. Daring his first term he served on the Committee on Military Affairs, also the Committee on Fees and Salaries, and was a most useful member of the House, serving his county with credit to himself and his constituents.

A great affliction has fallen upon Mr. and Mrs. Conklin in the loss of sight experienced by that lovely and intelligent lady, so that she who was for so man}' years Mr. Conklin 's most earnest and active hel])mate, is now to a considerable extent set aside from the activities of life. She is a membei of the Lutheran Church and one whose character and life are warmly admired by all who know her. IMr. Conklin has over five hundred acres of land, which he has gained by his own efforts. He is identified with Lithopolis Lodge No. 169, F. & A. M., and has served as both Junior and Senior AVarden of that body. He is a Democi'at in his views and takes a keen interest in political movements.

AMUEL O. WILSON is Superintendent of the Fayette County Infirmary and is well fitted by character and ability for this responsible position. He is a native of ¥ayette County, born in Greene Township March 6, 1845, and is a son of Joel Wilson. His father was a Virginian by birth, and, when young, came to Ohio with his parents, who were among the early settlers of (ireene Township. He married Eliza Wain, a daughter of Joseph Wain, who was a resident of the southern part of the county, his farm joining that of Joel Wilson. The Wains were also from Virginia. Of the five children born to Joel Wilson and his wife, all grew to manhood and womanhood, and the three still living are Elizabeth, wife of Lawrence Patton ; Nancy, wife of J. N. Moon, of Madison County, Iowa, and our subject. S. O. Wilson was educated in the district schools of his native towushi}), and when his school days were over, he commenced life in earnest as a farmer, in which occu[)ation he has always been interested. After his marriage in the spring of 1865, he continued his occupation in Wayne Township for eleven years. March 1, 1886, he was appointed Superintendent of the Fayette County Infirmary, and has been re-appointed every year since. When he entered upon the duties of his office, he had a hard task before him, as the place was in a very bad condition, the buildings were in bad order, the fences were poor and the farm had run down. But he has wrought a great change by his vigorous management, bringing to his work a clear and comprehensive mind, untiring diligence and unceasing vigilance in looking after matters under his jurisdiction, and the institution and the farm connected with it are now all that can be desired, the buildings kept in good repair and alwa3'S neat and orderly; and the land by judicious cultivation raised to the highest state of productiveness. Formerly the amount of money turned into the county treasury from the infirmary was v^ery small. The proceeds of the farm placed in the county treasury from that institution average from 13,000 to $4,000 per year. The cost per capita for keeping the inmates in the infirmarj' was $42.20, which, by the wise economy exercised by the Superintendent, was reduced for the year ending September 1, 1891, to $25.12, the second lowest rate in the State, and at the same time the inmates were just as well fed and cared for as heretofore.

Our subject is genial, polite, gentlemanly and hospitable, and is eminently humane and thoughtful in his conduct toward the people under his charge. He is ably assisted by his wife, who acts as matron, a position for which she has a peculiar gift, as she has an amiable, cheerful disposition, is invariably patient, kind and sympathetic, and has the ready tact so requisite in dealing with others. Both she and her husband have the full confidence of all concerned, and under their care the Fayette County Infirmar}' is said to be undoubtedly the best in the State.

The marriage of our subject with Miss Sarah C. Pavey was solemnized May 18, 1865, and has resulted in the birth of five children, viz: Mattie,

Harvey, Maggie, Fannie and Fred. Mrs. Wilson is a daughter of Jesse Pavey, a native of Bourbon County, Ky., and at the time of his daughter's marriage a prominent farmer of this county. Mr. Wilson is a Republican in politics; in his social relations, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and religiously, he and his wife are members in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal C'hurch.

,^^ HERMAN LEACFI,M.D., a practicing phy- ^^^ sician and surgeon of Mt. Sterling, was 1|^J) born in this city May 30, 1864. His boyhood da3'S were spent under the parental roof, and his literary education was acquired in the public schoc»ls. At the age of sixteen, he began clerking in a drug store, and three years later began the study of medicine. He entered the Starling Medical College of Columbus, pursuing a three-years' course and was graduated in March, 1887. While in college, he was also managing a drug store. He became an expert druggist and was paid a salary of $65 per month, and was allowed to attend the medical college six hours per day. After leaving school, he formed a partnership with Dr. W. H. P^mery, of Mt. Sterling, Madison County, the connection continuing until his death.

On the 9th of May, 1889, Dr. Leach wedded Plorence M. Horn beck, of Williamsport, Pickaway County, who was born in South Solon, September 3, 1869, and is a daughter of Marvin and Mary (Keyes) Hornbeck, both natives of Pickaway County. They are highly respected young people of this community, who hold an envial)le position in social circles.

The Doctor is local surgeon for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, and is a member of the Madison County and Ohio State Medical Societies. He has been elected Professor of Rectal Diseases in the Ohio Medical University' in Columbus, which was organized in 1892. He has prepared and read several papers before the medical societies and ranks' high among his professional brethren. In politics, he is a Republican, and is a member of the Cit}' Council and Treasurer of the village of Mt. Sterling. He is a Director of the Mt. Sterling Building and Loan Association, is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and has taken seven degrees in the Masonic lodge. He has the distinction of being the youngest Worshipful Master that has ever served in Mt. Sterling.

Dr. Leach is emphatieall}' a self-made man. He has made the most of his opportunities and has now the largest practice of any physician in Mt. Sterling, his income amounting to about -16,000 l)er year.

ylLLIAM T, LEACH, a prominent contractor and builder of Mt. Sterling, who is also engaged in the manufacture of artificial stone pavement, was born in Madison Township, Fayette County, Ohio, January 18, 1829. His parents, Robert and Eliza (Thomas) Leach, were both natives of Virginia, and came to Ohio with their parents when young. The father was a farmer and merchant and removed to Madison County when our subject was a lad of ten years.

William grew to manhood in Pleasant Township, and acquired his education in the common schools. After attaining to man's estate, he was married on the 28th of Januar}-, 1851, to Miss Jane Bostwick, a native of Vermont, and a daughter of Fred C. Bostwick, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. By tlieir union have been born five children: Mrs. May Newman, of Columbus, Ohio, who has two children: Frederick, a railroad emplo3'e in the West; Mrs. Eliza Hodges, who, witii her three children, resides in Sterling; Sherman, the subject of the preceding sketch in this volume; and Robert, a resident of Chicago. The mother of this family died in October, 1876, and was laid to rest in Pleasant Cemetery.

Mr. Leach continued to engage in farming for a number of years. Removing to McLean County, 111., in 1854, he purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land, upon which he made his home until 1859. In that 3"ear, he sold out and returned to Mt. Sterlinij". where he has since re- sided. He is a natural mechanic, and while engaged in farming also worked at the carpenter's trade. For many 3^ ears he has been connected with the building interests of Mt. Sterling and has erected many important buildings, including the residence and oHice of Dr. Sherman Leach.

On the 17th of May, 1881, our subject was again married, his second union being with Maggie Baughman, who was born in New Holland, Ohio, Octol)er 2, 18.54, and is a daughter of George W. and Elizabeth (Mitchell) Baughman. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Virginia. By this union has been born one son: Herbert B., who was born in Mt. Sterling, August 2, 1885.

Mr. Leach cast his first Presidential vote with the Whig party in 1852, but joined the Republican party on its organization, and supi)orted John C. Fremont in 1856. Since that time he has been a stalwart Republican and keeps himself well informed on the questions of the day. He has served as Marshal for three years, was a member of the City Council for three years, was Clerk of the School Board six years, and the various duties of these offices he promptly and faithfully performed. With the Presbyterian Church he holds membership, while Mrs. Leach belongs to the Methodist Ch urch.

?ALTER W. SHOOP. Upon a beautiful elevation on Circle Avenue, surrounded by grounds one acre in extent and finely laid out in lawns, will be noticed a commodious residence, which is undoul)tedly one of the most attractive homes in Washington C. H. Not only is its exterior appearance pleasing to the eye, but tlie interior arrangements are in harmony with the laws of beauty, and on ever^^ hand the good taste of the inmates is apparent. This is the home of Mr. Shoop and his family, who are well and favorably known throughout the community.

The son of a farmer, Mr. Shoop was born in Bainbridge, Ross County, this State, March 16, 1846, his parents being J. M. and Mary E. (Snyder) Shoop. He commenced his education in the district schools of Clinton County, whither he was taken by his parents when about three years old. In 1856, when a lad of ten years, he came to this county and located on a farm near Jasper Mills, where lie remained until after the death of his father in 1864, at the age of forty-six years.