Pickaway Township (part 25 of 49)

Maj. Boggs received his title for active service in the War of 1812. He was a man who was universally respected, and, though not a member of any church, was a warm friend to religion, and contributed liberally to aid its progress. He was a Democrat, and a great admirer of "Old Hickory." He died February 6, 1862, at the home of his son Moses, that date being the anniversary of his father's death, Februaiy 6, 1827, and it is a curious fact that they had attained nearly the same age at the time of death, for had they lived until their next birthday they would have been eightyseven years old. Maj. Boggs had been twice married. His first wife died December 31, 1851, and he subsequently married her sister, Mrs. Jane Taylor, in Zanesville. He had been living in that place a number of years, when he was taken sick, and he then returned to Pickaway County "'to die," as he said.

Moses Boggs, the father of our subject, was the third son, and seventh child, of Maj. John Boggs, and was the last of the family born in the old log cabin which his father built on Congo Creek, near the Logan Elm, the date of his birth being August 27, 1814. He became a farmer and large landholder, having about twelve hundred acres, and he also dealt in stock to a considerable extent. August 3, 1841, he was married to Miss Margaret S., daughter of Judge Cook, of Ross County. His death occurred December 7, 1865, when he was not much past tlie meridian of life. His wife died in 1887, aged seventy years. The following of their seven children are living: John M., a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan Universit}', a prominent farmer, residing near La Fayette, Ind., and President of the Indiana State Board of Agriculture; Scott, a farmer of Pickawa}^ Townshii), Avho is mentioned elsewhere in this volume; William, a graduate of the Ohio Wesle3^an University, and now a farmer, residing near La Fa^'ette, Ind., and Sarah T.

Sarah T. Boggs is an intelligent and highly cultured lady, who has been libera llj^ educated. She attended a select school at Chillicothe some time during her girlhood. In 1872, she entered Cornell College, at Mt. Vernon, Iowa, where she was closely engaged in scientific studies for two years. After slie left college her mind was further broadened by travel, as she journe3'ed with her mother, who had poor health, for several years. She has resided at Kingston since 1885, where she has a pleasant home. She is wealthy, and an extensive landowner, having one thousand and fortj'-five acres of land in Pickaway Township, of whicli five hundred and eighty are located on the Scioto Bottoms.

The boyhood days of Lemuel Boggs were passed on his father's farm. He was given every advantage to obtain a fine education, laying its foundation in the local district school, afterwards pursuing his studies at Mt. Pleasant Academj-, at Kingston, and finally graduating with honor from the scientific course at the Wesleyan University, in 1866. When his college days were over, he returned home, and immediately took up farming and stock-raising. He has four hundred and fifty acres of very fine land in his home farm in Pickaaway Township, known as Elmwood, which is a beautiful and sightly place. His large brick residence stands on a high elevation in the midst of a fine grove of forest trees, and other commodious buildings adorn the place. He also has three hundred and thirty acres in Perry Township, and handles a good deal of stock, besides dealing extensively in grain. In 1876, he built an elevator at Elmwood, a station on the Norfolk &: Western Railway a few rods from his residence, and has bought and shipped large quantities of grain ever since, as he is surrounded by one of the most productive corn and wheat regions in the vState.

Mr. Boggs has, on several occasions, served as executor of estates some of them very large. He was executor for that of his uncle, the late John Boggs, which was one of the largest ever settled in this county. It comprised large personal interests and about nine thousand acres of land, nearly three thousand of which were located in Pickaway Count3^ Our subject settled up his father's estate, too, and has been actively engaged in business affairs ever since. In 1883, he assisted in organizing the Scioto Valley Bank, at Kingston, and has served as its President ever since 1885, his vigorous and healthy administration of its affairs making it a powerful factor in local financial circles. He is a thorough business man, is possessed of fine social qualities, and stands high in the estimation of all who know him, and his friends and acquaintances are many.

In 1870, Mr, Boggs was married to Miss .Jennie, daughter of the Hon. John Groce, who is mentioned elsewhere in this work, and their domestic relations are of the pleasantest. Three children have been born unto them: Nellie G., Margie C, and John.

Our subject is" a stanch and influential Republican, and his counsels are often sought by his party. In 1877, he was a candidate for State Senator, showing himself a strong man in the race, but his party was too hopelessly in the minority- to elect him. The following year he was honored with the nomination for Representative, and ran ahead of his ticket. His popularity is best shown by the fact that he has held tlio responsible ollice of Treasurer of the Township for the past six years, although the township is overwhelmingly Democratic. He is well known in social circles as a member of tlie Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of the Knights of Pythias, and of other orders of like character.

"jf/ YMAN JONES, who represents one of the I (^ old pioneer families of Ohio, is one of the JLA\,^ practical, well-to-do farmers of Pickaway Township, his farm, the old homestead forujerly belonging to his father, being among the best managed and most productive in this section of the county of Pickaway. Mr. Jones is a native of tliis county, born in Salt Creek Township, near the Ross County line, January 28, 1841. His father, the late Abel Jones,who was widely' known and honored as one of our best citizens during his residence here, was born in Ross County, October 31, 1810, a son of Aaron Jones, a Virginian, who came to Ohio about the beginning of the centur\', and was one of the first settlers of Ross County, where he carried on his occupation as a farmer until his demise. He had three sons, one of whom is living, and six daughters, all of whom are dead.

The father of our subject was reared under pioneer influences to stalwart, sturdy, self-reliant manhood, and in duo time began his independent career as a farmer, in which he met with more than ordinary success, as he was a cool calculator, was shrewd and sagacious in money matters, and was thrifty and energetic in carr3dng on his work. He purchased a farm in Salt Creek Township shortly after his marriage, having earned his first money by teaching school for some terms, he l)eing very well educated. In early life he dealt extensively in stock, feeding a bunch of cattle every winter, for which he always found a good market. In the course of years, he became one of the wealthy men of the county, accumulating a valuable property, including some sixteen hundred acres of land in Salt Creek and Pickawa}^ Townships, and in Ross Count}', six hundred acres lying in that county.

Mr. Jones continued to live on his farm in Salt Creek Township until 1864, when he removed to Pickaway Township, where he had purchased land, and here his long and well-spent life was brought to a close by his death January 5, 1892. He left behind him a golden record of one who had lived iiprightl}^, had been straightforward and conscientious in his dealings, was exemplary in all his acts, and was well worthy of the trust and respect in which he was held by the entire community who knew him so well. He was eminently a self-made man, beginning life with no other capital than a sound,well-trained mind, and good physical powers, and his course might well be followed by the young men to-day, who are just entering upon their careers. INIr. J(mes was much indebted for his success to the faithful and efficient help that he received from his good wife, who was his counselor and companion for many years, until her death in 1887. Her maiden name was Catherine Dresbach and she was a daughter of Martin Di'esbach. Her parents came from Pennsylvania to Ohio in an early day and were among the first settlers of Ross County, where she was born October 3, 1815.

Lyman Jones is the eldest of nine children, of whom eight are living. He was educated in the district school, and he early became familiar with all kinds of farm work. He always remained with his father, affording him valuable assistance in the management of his extensive interests, and at the same time gaining that clear insight into business matters that has been the ke3'note of his own success, lie is the executor of his fathei's estate, a position for which he is well qualified on account of his accurate knowledge of his father's affairs, his excellent administrative ability, and because he will settle everything with perfect fairness and with good judgment.

Our subject has a fine farm of two hundred acres that he inherited from his father, who bequeathed it to him in his will. He and his sister are living together on the old homstead, and have here a very pleasant home, comfortable and cozy in the extreme. INIr. Jones is a sound Republican in politics, and is in every way a good citizen of his native county, with whose interests his own are so closely connected.

AMUEL E. ADAMS. One of the most notable examples of success furnished by the mercantile establishments of Washington C. H. is that of the dry-goods and notion store owned and conducted by Mr. Adams. Although of recent inception, it has enjoyed a steady increase in facilities and trade, until at the present time it is one of the leading establishments of the kind in Fa3'ette Count}'.

The proprietor of the store, to whom is due the large measvu'e of success enjo3'ed, is a native of Fa3'ette County, and was born in Perry Township, August li), 1850. His father, Trustin Adams, removed from Delaware to Ohio in 1832, and began merchandising in Monroe, Highland County, where he remained for some time. The latter part of his active life jvas spent in farming pursuits, in whicli he met with success until the infirmities of age compelled him to cease from his labors. He passed away from this life February 9, 1892.

At the age of fourteen, our subject began clerking for his father and, while quite 3'oung, gained a practical idea of business. His father selling out to his brother and brother-in-law, he remained with them for a time, but being desirous to in- crease bis education, he took a commercial course in the business college at Portsmouth, Ohio. Afterward, he clerked for G. W. Anderson &. Co., of that city, then visited Kansas and spent a short time at Wamego. Returning to the old homestead, he assisted his father in his farming operations until 1871, when he entered the store of his brother, W. B. Adams, at Greenfield, Highland County.

After remaining twenty months with his brother, our subject came to Washington C. II. and in January, 1882, embarked in business as a grocer. His store building was a small building on Court, between Fayette and North Streets, but after geting fairly started, he removed to a larger building in the same block. He continued in the grocerjbusiness, which he constantly enlarged, until September 9, 1887, when he sold out. November 10 following, he embarked in the notion trade, and in the spring of 1888 added a full line of dr}'- goods. In September, 1891, he removed to the block which he at present occupies, on the corner of Court and Fayette Streets. He gives constant employment to thi-ee clerks, and is often compelled to add extra help during the busy seasons.

When freed from business cares, Mr. Adams finds leisure and enjoyment of all the comforts of home at his residence on the corner of Washington Avenue and Hopkins Street. The other members of his family are his wife, formerly Miss Alice Gustin, of Wilmington, Ohio, to whom he was married July 5, 1883, and their three sons: Lee Offa, Gilbert Gustin and William Eben. Mr. Adams is Steward in tiie ]\IetIiodist Episcopal Church, of which his wife is also a devoted member.

<| ^ILLIAM H. JONES, M. I). This highly \/iJ/l ^-'^t^^^^icd gentleman, who is making his V^/\^ home in Jefferson ville, Fayette County, was born in North Wales on the 12th of February, 1816. His parents were William and Jane Jones, both natives of Wales. The father was by trade a miller and carried on that business in his native countrj' until his death, which occurred in 1815.

He ran a watermill,and when a farmer sent his grain to his mill he would weigh it and put the amount down in a book, and when ground and bolted he would again weigh it and then make out a ticket stating the weight of the grain and its products, thus showing whether or not the customer received his own product or not. At his death, he left a wife and six children: Thomas, William H.; Davis, who is a resident of Cincinnati and has a very prominent family of sons engaged in the electric business; and Abel. The rest of the number arc; deceased.

The subject of this life history was educated in his native country until fourteen years of age, having studied Latin and the histories of all foreign countries. He was taken from school and bound out in a [)rinting office for a period of seven years, but after a siiort time his eyesight liecame very poor, and he was released from his apprenticeship. Mr. Jones then went to work at the trade of a cabinet-maker and carpenter, and followed this for some years. When al)out twentythree 3'ears of age, he went to Manchester, England, and in 1842 set sail for America, taking passage at Liverpool on a sailing-vessel and landing at New York City after an uneventful voyage of seven or eight weeks. He remained a short time in this great city, when he went to Washington, I). C, and there met a Senator from Ohio, of whom he asked something in regard to Ohio. He was only answered in a short and rude manner, which he did not at all like. Not believing all the people of the Buckeye State to be like this one whom he had met, he went to Cincinnati and began working at stair-building. Subsequently', he began the study of medicine and was graduated from the Eclectic Medical College in 1849, having built the stairs in the college for part of his tuition.

After his graduation. Dr. Jones began to practice in Oak Hill, Jackson County, Ohio, remaining at that place about two years. At the expiration of this time, he came to Jeffersonville, Fayette County, and has since then been engaged in his practice in this place and is highly honored and esteemed by ever}- one with whom he comes in contact. The Doctor is now in his seventy-sixth year and has a fine experience as a physician, and has performed some very difficult and noted operations in siirger}'. Hy his perseverance and thrift, he has laid up for himself and family a comfortable competency for a rainy daj' and makes his home in a handsome dwelling one mile from town.

Dr. -Jones was married, February 7, 1852, to Olivia Ilidy, by whom he has six children living: Ilumphre}', William, Mary J., Carey, P^mma and Minnie. The two sons are prominent attorney's in Washington C. H. Emma O., the second daughter, is a graduate of the Chicago Medical College and has held some important positions in hospitals, etc. She is now practicing medicine at Jefferson ville with good success. She has had several severe cases of diphtheria, but has never lost a case. Dr. Jones and his estimable wife are members of the Universalist Church.

M. BAER is Chief of the Fire Department at Circleville. There is nothing which adds so much to the safety and security of the people of a town or city as an active, welltrained, vigilant and excellently equipped fire department. The history of the measures for fire prevention in Circleville is an interesting one, for the handy ''blue bucket," and the nimble feet of such as would help, composed the equipments of tlie early residents. Now there is a fire department that is a credit to the city. Mr. Baer, who is Chief of the Fire Department, is a practical and firstclass engineer, and is one who thoroughly understands his business. He was born in Jackson Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, as was also his father, John Baer. The grandfather, John Baer, Sr., was originall}' from the Keystone State, but an early settler of Pickaway County, Ohio, where he purchased a wild piece of land in Jackson Township, on Darby Creek. On this he erected a rude log hut, and there passed the remainder of his days. He was of German descent.

amid pioneer scenes, and received his scholastic training in the log schoolhouse of early days. At an early age he commenced farming and stockraising for himself, purchased a farm, and on this died, September 20, 1852, when about thirty-five years of age. He was married in Pickaway County to Miss Catherine Starritt, a native of Pennsj'lvauia, who came with her father, Solomon, to Ohio, when but a child. Here she grew to womanhood, and married Mr. Baer. After the death of her husband, she kept the family on the farm until 1867, when she sold out and moved to Marion, Ohio. There she resides at the present time, and is now Mrs. Wilson, having married again. By her marriage to Mr. Baer she became the mother of six children, as follows: An infant (deceased), J. M. (our subject), Elizabeth (Mrs. Rector), who resides in South Bloom field; John, with our subject in the fire department; Sarah (Mrs. Morn, of Columbus), and Franklin, who died at the age of twelve years.

Our subject's birth occurred on the 6th of Januarj', 1845, and his time was divided in youth between working on the farm and attending school taught in the primitive log schoolhouse of pioneer days. He attended principall}' during the winter months until seventeen 3ears of age, and at the age of twenty he began farming on a part of the old place, the same, consisting of five hundred and six acres, being left by the grandfather. This he continued for two years, and then rented a farm four miles from Circleville, and carried on seven hundred acres, when only twenty-three years of age. In 1879, he located in Circleville, and for two and one-half years was engineer in the Heffner warehouse. Previous to this, when about sixteen 3'^ears of age, he was engaged with a threshing-machine and continued with it all one fall. He had alwa3'S delighted in machinery of all kinds, and when he was seventeen years of age he came to Circleville and began learning the machinist's trade. Plight months after, he returned to the farm, but his love of machinery lingered with him, and when twenty years of age he was the owner of a threshing-machine, used steam, and threshed all over the western part of the county. He became one of the bestknown threshers, and continued in this business for twenty-two years. He then came to Circleville, as above mentioned, and in 1881 became Engineer of tbe Fire Department, holding- that position for two 3'ears. He then resigned, and one 3'ear later was placed on the police force, which position he held for thirteen months, and again resigned. For four years after this he was in the employ of what was then the Portage Straw Board Company, but what is now the American Straw Board Company; and after this, in May, 1889, he was appointed Chief of the Fire Department, by Mayor Bolin (now deceased), and re-appointed b}^ Maj^or Lowe. Mr, Baer was married in Jackson Township, Pickaway County, to Miss Virginia Buckles, a native of Darby Township, the same county. The fruits of this union have been three children : Cynthia, a graduate of the High School of Circleville; Franklin, at home; and Cora. Mr. Baer's second marriage was to a sister of his first wife. Miss Rosaltha Buckles, who was also a native of Darby Township, Pickaway County, Ohio. Her father, Rev. Abraham Buckles, was a minister in the Methodist Cluneh. Mr. Baer had the misfortune to lose his second wife. She left two children, Walter and Henry. Mr. Baer is a Democrat in his political views, and is a member of the Democratic Club. He has been a delegate to count}^ and State conventions, and is at present Chairman of the Democratic County Central Committee. In 1891, he was Chairman of the Executive Committee of the count}^ Socially, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

LBERT IIANER, M. D. This esteemed resident of Plain City is a New Yorker l\y birth, having been born in Chautauqua ^ County, N. Y., October 16, 1832. His father, Henry H. Haner, was also a native of the Empire State, and was born in Rensselaer County, seven miles from Albany. He was a farmer by occupation and as early as 1838 removed to what is now Wyandot, Ohio, where he continued his work as a farmer. Later, he made his home in Franklin Count}', Kan., seven miles from Ottawa, where, in

1863, he bought a farm and there resided until his death, which took place when he was eighty-seven 3-ears old. His father, Pliilip Haner, a native of Germany, lived to attain the very venerable age of one hundred and ten years.

The mother of oiu- suljject was known in maidenhood as Sarali Strope, daughter of John Strope, a German by birth. She was born in the State of New York, and lived to be sixty-nine years old. There were nine children in the family into which our subject was born, seven being daughters and two sons. All grew to years of maturity and five are now living. Dr. Haner, who was the sixth cliild in order of age, was only six years old when he came to this State with his parents. His first school advantages were given him at W3'andot, and he began his medical studies at the Eclectic College of Cincinnati, where he attended lectures during the years 1856, 1857 and 1858. Having taken his diploma in that institution, he located in Cincinnati, and for seven years carried on an active practice in that city. It must have been rather startling to a young practitioner to be called, as he was, in the very first case that was put into his hands, to a small-pox patient.

It was in 1861 that the young Doctor removed to Urbana, where he remained for two 3'ears, and in 1863 came to Plain City, which has since been his home. His marriage took place in Wyandot, Ohio, in 1852, his bride being Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob Leonard, a native of Ohio. Dr. and l\Irs. Haner are the parents of two sons. Their eldest, Jacob Leonard, is a graduate of the law department of the Michigan University at Ann Arbor, taking his degree there in 1891. He is married to Lydia, the daughter of Harrison Miller, of Union County, Ohio, and makes his home in Columbus. The second son, William Henry, is in the grain business at Plain Cit}-, and is carrying on an extensive trade in buying, selling and shipping. He is united in marriage with Rosa, the daughter of Jeremiah Douglas, of Putnam County, Ohio.

Dr. Haner has an extensive practice and at one time carried on a drug trade of a considerable extent but closed out this line of business on account of his large practice. He is a Mason, and a mem- ber of the Urania Lodge of Plain City, besides being a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men, of Plain Cit3^ Mrs. Haner is in business and carries on one of the best dry-goods houses in the city, and the family, one and all, have the esteem and respect of those with whom the}' are brought into business and social relations.

^1r^, OBERT MILLIKIN, residing on liis well- Ib^ijr' developed farm, which is very pleasantly Iks \\\ situated on the East Turnpike, six miles \:^ south of Plain City, on the fertile lands of Canaan Township, is one of Madison Count^^'s sturdy, thrifty, forehanded farmers, who understands well how to conduct agriculture witli good profit.

Mr. Millikin was born in Washington County, Pa., April 15, 1832, and is a son of John Millikin, who was also a native of that county, born on the banks of Ten Mile Creek, August 15, 1807. He was reared on a farm, and became a stock-dealer and a drover of hogs, cattle, and sheep, which he often shipped to Baltimore and other cities. His family history is given in the sketch of his brother James. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Rachel Bane, and she was born in the same Pennsylvania count}^ as himself, her biith occurring December 25, 1811. Her father, James Bane, was likewise a native of the Keystone State, and was of German descent. The parents of our subject were married in their native county in 1828, and located on a farm in that part of Pennsylvania. The mother died in July, 1854, and the father was afterward married to Cornelia Dodd, widow of Lemuel Lewallen. In 1856, he came to Ohio with his second wife, and settled in Canaan Township, where he was actively engaged in farming until within five years of his death, when he retired from business, and spent his remaining days in Plain City, dying Februar}^ 23, 1881. While a resident of his native county, he had been prominent as a local Democrat, and as an incumbent of various township offices, and he was an able man.

He was closeh^ identified with the interests of the Presbyterian Church as one of its most useful members. This is the record of his children, three sons and one daughter, wiio were all born of his first marriage: James B., born October 3, 1830, died in Union County, Ohio, March 28, 1886; Robert is our subject, and is the second child and second son in order of birth; Annie E. was born October 9, 1835, married S. D. Andrew, and died in Franklin County, February 9, 1889; John L.,born August 18, 1842, resides in Canaan Township.

Our subject was reared in his native place, and obtained his education in the common schools. He remained with his father as long as he lived in Pennsylvania, and accompanied him to liis new home in this State, driving the team for him on the wa}^ He still continued with him until his marriage, affording him valuable assistance in the care of his farm. After his marriage, he located on a rented farm in Canaan Township, which he gave u}) two 3^ears later, and bought one of his own two and one-half miles south of Plain City. That farm was his dwelling place until he sold it, in 1882, and bought his father's old homestead, which he still occupies. It comprises one hundred and fifty acres, and is in a fine condition, his father having placed upon it many valuable improvements, including the present commodious residence inhabited by our subject, who is doing general farming. For some nine years, he dealt extensively in stock, buying and shipping cattle to various points during and after the war. He has driven cattle from Madison County to Baltimore for another man, and also to York and Lancaster Counties, Pa.

Mr. Millikin was married December 10, 1867, to Miss Rosa M. Vanschoyck, a native of Franklin County. She was born April 30, 1836, and was a daughter of David and Esther (Bailey) Vanschoyck. Her father was also a native of Franklin County, and was a son of one of its earliest pioneer families, while her mother was a Pennsj'lvanian liy birth. Mrs. Millikin died January 28, 1884, and was laid to rest in the cemetery at Plain City. She was a woman of rare merit, whose man}' pleasant attributes won her high regard, and her memoiy is tenderl_y cherislied by man}^ besides those of her own household. Mr. Millikin has two daughters as his stay and comfort, Cora A., Ijorn December 17, 1868, and Delia .1., Sei)teniber 17, 1870.

Our subject is well known as a Democrat, tried and true. A man of high reputation and excellent business qualifications, important local otlices have been entrusted to his care, and he has discharged their duties with exactitude and fidelity. He was Assessor three years, Trustee one 3'ear, and has been School Director,

^f 8AAC MOORE. On the opposite page is shown the portrait of a former well-known and prominent citizen of Mt. Sterling, now deceased. He was born near Williamsport, Pickaway County, February 11, 1806. His parents, Ephraim and Priscilla (Riggin) Moore, were born, reared and married in Delaware, and, with the exception of our subject, their children were all natives of that State. The father followed the profession of teaching in his earlier yeai's but also woi"ked at the wheelwright's trade, and was one of the honored heroes of the Revolutionary War. He was born August 22, 1743, and died March 12, 1815, at the age of one hundred and two years. His wife, Priscilla Moore, died December 18, 1848, at the age of ninety-three 3'ears and eight months.

The boyhood days of our subject were spent on a farm near Williamsport. In April, 1830, he was united in marriage M'itli Mrs. Sarah McCafferty, nee Nutt, who was born in Virginia, but was residing in Fayette County, Ohio, at the time of her marriage. Mr. Moore continued to engage in farming for a number of years, but at length abandoned that occupation and removed to jMt. Sterling, where he engaged in merchandising for eighteen years. He was a self-made man, who began life emptj'-handed, but by his own efforts worked his way upward and amassed quite a fortune. He looked after his own landed interests up to the time of his death, collecting his own rents, etc.

afterward became a Republican. He was always a strong advocate of temperance principles and later in life joined the ranks of the Prohibition part}'. He was always a great reader and especially fond of studying the Bible, from which he could quote freely. In 1832, he and his wife united with tiie Methodist Church of Mt. Sterling, and were ever afterwards faithful members. He served as Steward for almost half a century, was Class-leader for about the same length of time and was an earnest Sunday-school worker. At the time of his death he had a class of young men, who acted as his pall bearers. He passed away December 25, 1891. His estimable wife was called to her final rest February 13, 1879.

This worthy couple had three children: Battael H., a hardware merchant of Circleville, Ohio, who is married and has one child; Mrs. Madeline Mc- Cafferty, who has five children and resides in White Oak, Fayette County; and Mrs. Clara Schoch. The latter was born in Madison Township, Fayette County, Noveml)er 12, 1848, and after attending the common schools became a student in the Xenia Seminary. On the 14th of August, 1877, she gave her hand in marriage to Marquis De La Fayette Schoch, who was born in Rock Mills, Fairfield County, Ohio, November 7, 1843. He was a man of good education, had been a teacher of penmanship and was a l)Ook-keei)er before his marriage. His death occurred ,lune 20, 1888. He was a member of the Methodist Church, to which Mrs. Schoch also belongs. She is an estimable lady, whose excellencies of character have endeared her to many friends.

COTT C. BOGGS, son of Moses Boggs, of the famous Boggs family, so long and so intimately associated with the rise and progress of Pickaway County, is an able farmer, who brings a well-trained mind to his work, and is managing his extensive farming interests on sections 28 and 33, Pickaway Township, with consummate skill. .

born November 14, 1848. An account of his father is given elsewliere in this book. Our subject was given fine educational advantages, and after attending Mt. Pleasant Acadein3', at Kingston, he entered the Ohio Weslej-an University at Delaware in the fall of 1867, and spent two years in that institution, completing the sophomore year. After leaving college, he turned his attention to farming, and passed the ensuing two 3'ears on a farm near La Fayette, Ind. In 1870, he returned to his native township, and two years later bought his present farm, on section 33, where he has since made his home. lie has four hundred and eighty acres of land, all in a body, a part of it lying on section 28. It is well supplied with buildings of a good class, and ever}' convenience for carrying on agriculture to the best advantage; the soil is under admirable tillage, is well drained, and is very productive. Our subject is a manl3% frank, generous-hearted man, and with his amiable wife occupies a high social position in his native county, to whose citizenship he is an honor. lie belongs to the Masonic fraternity, and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is popular with his fellow-members. Politicallv, he is a straightforward Republican. He was Trustee of his township one year, and he is always ready to do all in his power to forward its interests.

Mr. Boggs was married in 1872 to Miss Ada Shannon, and they have been very happy in their domestic life, as he has been to her a devoted husband, and she to him a true wife in every sense of the term. They have two children living: Lucy C, born June 4, 1876, and Howard S., April 19, 1879. Mrs. Boggs is a native of Kingston, Ross County, and a daughter of the late Dr. Robert W Shannon, who was for many years one of the leading physicians and citizens of Ross Count}'. He settled at Kingston in 1850, and was in active practice there until his lamented death, in 1882, at the age of sixty-five 3'ears. He was a native of Virginia. A man of loft}^ principles and high moral character, he was an influence for much good in his community, and for many years was an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. He married Margaret INIowry, a native of Viiginia, who survives him. She is the mother of four children, three daughters and one son, all of whom are living. Mrs. Boggs was carefull}' reared by her parents, and was given excellent educational advantages in the public schools at Kingston and in the Mt. Pleasant Academ3^ She is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is active in its ever}^ good work.

*'^^_^ ENRY SMITH is a man of upright, honest character, whose long and useful life has won him the esteem and confidence of all honest men and the respect of all good citizens. He began in life a poor bo}', but by energy and perseverance, united with economy and good business qualifications, he has secured a competency and is now living in the enjoyment of the fruits of his early toil. His present home is situated on section 29, Walnut Township, Pickaway County, wliere, in addition to cultivating the soil, he is the proprietor of a machine shoji.

The original of this sketch is a native of Fairfield County, this State, his birth occurring October 25, 1824. He is the son of John M. and Magdalena Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. The yjaternal great-grandfather was a native of Germany. John M. Smith came to this section in an earl}^ day, and here our subject was reared amid the pioneer scenes, whose hardships and privations have made a lasting impression upon his mind. Their pioneer home was located in the woods, and deer and wild animals were very plentiful, making it easy to provide the farailj' larder with all kinds of choice meats.

Henrj Smith began learning the trade of a blacksmith when in his sixteenth year, serving an apprenticeship of three years. He has since followed that occupation, which business he has found to be very profitable. He was married in 1844 to Miss Rebecca Crites, b}' whom he became the father of a family of ten children, seven of whom are living and are Sophia, Mrs. Francis Ward; Jacob; Paulina, the wife of John H. Ward; Jabez, Jerome, Samuel and John. On the death of his wife, Mr. Smith was a second time married, the lady of his choice being Mary Abbott. Our subject removed to his present location in 1844, where he opened up a blacksmith shop. He is considered an expert in that line, and rendered much useful service in " setting up " the first mowers and rea]jers introduced into the county. People living within six miles of Columbus brought their farm machinery to Mr. Smith to be repaired, knowing tliat the work would be done in a satisfactory manner. His l)lacksmith shop and outfit cost him $,5,000, which he considers a judicious investment.

The education of our subject was limited to the district school, but being an apt pui)il and eager to learn, he made the best of his opportunities, and is to-day thoroughly informed upon all topics of general interest. In politics, he is a sound Republican, always casting his vote in favor of the candidates of that party. He has taken an active interest in educational matters, and for twenty years has rendered effective service on the School Board. He is widely known in this section, and we are pleased to be able to place his sketch before our numerous readers as one of the representative citizens of the county who is self-made in the truest sense of that term.

W?AMES HARTNELL HOLWAY. Many of our readers will recognize this name as that of a prominent and popular resident of Oak Run Township, Madison County, where, in addition to farming and stock-raising, he is the owner of a creamery. His estate comyn-ises one hundred and sixteen acres, whicli his industry has placed imder excellent cultivation.

He of whom we write was born in Hem3'ock, Devonshire, England, December 31, 1846, to Robert and Elizabeth Hartncll Ilolwa^'. He was twenty years of age when his parents emigrated to America, and located one mile w^est of Oberlin, Lorain County, this State. James II. was the tentli in order of birth of a family of eleven children, nine of whom are still living. Three of the children accompanied tlieir parents to the New World, four preceded the family hither, and two are still living in England. The eldest son, John, is a graduate of Oberlin College, and also of Westerville, and makes his home in Chicago, whei'e he is a minister in the Congregational Church; Thomas still resides in his native land, and is Police Inspector on the Southwestern Railwa}^ in London; EIizal)eth married Charles Harris, and makes her liome in Taunton, Somerset, England; Sarah married John Earrar, of London, and makes her home in London, Oliio; William enlisted from Marysville, this State, in tlie War of the Rebellion, and served through tlie entire struggle; he has recently lost his eyesight, and makes his home in Mansfield, tliis State. Mar}- became the wife of Col. Butterfield, of Indianapolis, Ind., and after his deatii married Richard Treneman, and lives in Collinwood, this State; Ann, INIrs. T. .1. Earrar, resides at Frankfort, Marshall County, Kan.; our subject is the next in order of birth; Charles is a graduate of Oberlin College, and is engaged in business at Philadelphia, Pa.; Richard died in England, in 1835, when nine montlis old; Robert visited Ameiica on two different occasions, and departed this life at Taunton, Englaiul.

The original of this sketch took the preparatory course in Oberlin College, and, after abandoning his studies, Avas engaged by his brother, who was a member of a large hardware firm, as traveling salesman. He was thus employed for a period of three years, with a salar}' of $40 per month and expenses. At the expiration of that time, he purchased a stock on his own account which he retailed, and in addition to that sold the baskets wliich his father made. He later engaged in farming, and went on the road during the dull season on his estate, and was engaged in the hay business for two years at London, Ohio.

The lady to whom our subject was married November 19, 1884, was Miss Agnes M., daughter of Frederick and Betty (Lutley) Bennett. She was a native of Devonshire, J>ngland, having been born at Hemyock, July 19, 1848. She accompanied her parents to America when eighteen years of age, and having acquired an excellent education in her native land, about one year after locating here began teaching school, which occupation she followed for ten vears.

Mr. and Mrs. Holway were intimate friends in their native land, and after our subject came to America, carried on a correspondence for twelve years. They were married in Wisconsin, on the same day on whicli Mr. Ilolway purchased his present farm. The father of our subject disposed of his property at Oberlin, and coming to Madison County, here resided until his decease, Februar}^ 15, 1891. He was followed to the better land by his wife, who died January 3, 1892.

Mr. Holway cast his first Presidential vote for Garfield, but of recent years has been in symj^ath}' with the Prohibition party. He is a believer in the principles of the Congregational Church, while his wife leans towards the doctrines advocated by the Mctliodist Episcopal denomination. Mr. and Mrs. Holway have two children: James Gladstone, who was born December 6, 1885; and Paul Bennett, March 9, 1888.

\ good maintenance by tilling a portion of its soil, is Mr. Cook, who is located in Madison Township. He looks back over years of growth in this section, and rejoices in having had a hand in bringing abovit the present condition of affairs.

He of whom we write was l)Orn in this township, April 4, 182(3, and is the son of Isaac Thompson and Elizabeth (Lewis) Cook, the former of whom was born March G, 1797, at Shippensburgh, Pa., and the mother in Feliruary, 1804, in Chillicothe, this State. The father was brought hither by his father, Isaac Cook, when a year old, and grew to manhood on a farm near Chillicotlie, where also he was married. The young couple located on three hundred acres of land which had been given them by their respective parents, and began housekeeping on the tract which is the present home of our subject. The elder iNIr. Cook accumula'.ed a handsome property, and at his death owned fourteen hundred acres of land.

five of whom are living. Of the family, William Lewis, the eldest son, was married and left a family of four children at his death; Mathew Scott died in infanc}^; John Joseph passed away when twenty-two j'^ears of age; Margaret E. married Mile Rockwell, and makes her home in Washington C. H. James F., who is also residing in that cit}^, served as Sheriff of the count}'' two terms, and was Treasurer for a like period; in 1862, he enlisted in the War of the Rebellion, and served until the close of that struggle, being captured at the battle of Stone River, and confined at Atlanta and in Libby Prison. He received a slight wound on the cheek by the fragment of a shell, and at tlie time of his honorable discharge was promoted to the rank of Brevet-Major. Benjamin F., who was the next in order of birth, is now living on the old home place; Sarah C, who married H. D. Marcy, whose sketch will be found on another page in this book, is deceased; and Mary A., who is the present wife of the above-named gentleman.

Isaac Cook, the great-grandfather of our subject, was a Colonel in the Revolutionary War, in which conflict he served under Washington. His seven sons were also engaged in that memorable conflict, one of whom, Capt. Joel Cook, continued in the regular service, commanding a company of the Fourth Regiment at the battle of Tippecanoe. The first representative of the Cook family in America was Henry Cook, who emigrated hither with Capt. John Endicott, in 1628. Our subject's grandfather was elected County Judge in Ross County, this State, and also a member of the State Senate. Mr. Cook lias in his possession a cane, which was presented to his grandfather by members of the Bar in Ross County.

Isaac Scott Cook grew up on the home farm, and after receiving a fair education in the common schools, was engaged as a clerk in the store for his uncle at Cliillicothe for two years. He then took a course of study at Delaware, and in April, 1861, enlisted as a Union soldier in the three-months' service, but his company was not mustered into service. He pai'ticipated in the Morgan raid, but was prevented from going further than Cliillicothe, on account of arms.

long line of Whigs, and himself votes witii the Republican party. His father served as County Conimissionei' for fifteen years, and was an active member of the Methodist Protestant Church. Benjamin F., a brother of our subject, was attending school at Antioch, on the outbreak of the Rebellion, and, coming home, enlisted when twenty-three ^ears of age in the three-months' service, but, like our subject, was not called upon to go to the front. In November of that ear, however, he became a member of Company C, Sixtieth Ohio Infantry, and after three months was transferred to Compan}^ H, and served his country for one year as Second Sergeant. He was present at the battle of Cross Keys and Harper's Ferr}', in which latter battle he was taken prisoner, and after three days was paroled and sent to the camp at Chicago. From that cit}' he returned home, his term of service having expired, and took part in the Morgan raid. Our subject has never been married.

The lady to whom Benjamin F. was married in February, 1879, was Miss Fannie J., daughter of Levin and Susan (SoUars) Bennett, who was born in Fayette County, January 18, 1856. They have become the parents of five children, namely: Benjamin F., who was born March 22, 1880; Elizabeth Lewis, November 4, 1882; Fannie Margaret, elanuary 7, 1885; Thompson Scott, September 2, 1887; and Mary Lorette, March 8, 1890.

Benjamin Cook has been Township Trustee for eight years, and in social circles is a Mason, having taken the Commandery Degree. Isaac Scott is also connected with that fraternity, being identified with the Blue Lodge.

young farmer who resides on section 26, Salt Creek Township. Not only is he familiar with the best methods of agriculture, but he is an intelligent reader upon all subjects of national or world-wide interest, and is particularly well posted upon political events. In his political aflfiliations, he is proud to enlist his inlluence and vote in behalf of the j)rinciples of Democracy and is an indefatigable worker in party ranks, where his thorough knowledge of the party platform and tiie issue at stake renders him invaluable in promoting the interests of local politics.

During the early settlement of this county, Jacob Reichelderfer, grandfather of our subject, emigrated from Berks County, Pa., to Ohio and became one of the first settlers of Salt Creek Township, which was at that time covered with dense foi'ests, where wild animals roamed at will. Deer were plentiful and were often seen by the pioneer hunter as they came to the banks of the stream and stooped to drink the clear flowing water. Amid such primitive surroundings, Samuel Reichelderfer, father of our subject, who was born in Salt Creek Tow-nship in 1813, grew to a vigorous manhood and became fitted for the hardships incident to a farmer's life. He witnessed the wonderful growth of the community and bore no unimportant part in its progress. When he died in 1875, it was felt that one of the most enterprising citizens was gone from among those with whom his whole life had been parsed. His wife, who was known in maidenhood as Sarah Reichelderfer and who was likewise a native of Berks County, Pa., survived him a number of years, dying in July, 1890. The worthy couple lield membership in the German Lutheran Church and were highly esteemed as faithful Christians.

Among tlie family' of thirteen children, our subject was the next to the youngest, and five of the number are living at present. He was born in Salt Creek Township, July 20, 1859, and in his boyhood received the advantages of a common-school education. Early in life, he became familiar with farming pursuits and when he arrived at manhood's years decided to follow agriculture for his life pursuit. November 2, 1882, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Dresbach, a native of Ross County. Mrs. Reichelderfer is the daughter of Samuel and Hannah (Ranck) Dresbach, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Ross County, Ohio. Her father, who was a farmer, died in 1875; her mother is still living and makes her home in Ross Count}'. She is a lady of great nobility of character and purity of life, and is an active member of tlie United Brethren Church. She became the mother of thirteen children, and Mrs. Reichelderfer is one of ten now surviving', seven of whom are married.

Our subject and his wife are the i)arents of three children, as follows: Saniuel D., born November 11, 1884; Lyman D., December 18, 1886, now deceased, and Vest D., born November 29, 18'J0. The family are highly esteemed in the community and are attendants at the LTnited Brethren Church, of which Mrs. Reichelderfer is a member. Their home farm comprises one hundred and five acres of land, which is watered by Salt Creek and thus rendered very fertile, while the buildings are conveniently situated and substantial.

Every measure which has in view the promoting of the welfare of the citizens and the interests of the county, finds in Mr. Reichelderfer a heart}' and enthusiastic support. He is admirably adapted for public positions of trust and has served his fellowcitizens in various capacities, among them filling the office of Townsliip Clerk to the satisfaction of all concerned. He has also been delegate to several conventions and his name is now prominently mentioned for an important and responsible position. As he is still young, undoubtedly the future years will bring to him public honors and successes.

^( OlIN KNIGHT is a good type of our selfmade men, who have also afforded valuable assistance in the making of their native county, Pickawa}^ while industriously accumulating the property that ])laces them among its substantial, well-to-do citizens. Our subject has one of the best-managed and improved farms in all Washington Township, where he carries on a profital)le business as a tiller of the soil and stockraiser.

Mr. Knight was born in Washington Township, Pickaway Count}^, September 4, 1835. His father, Thomas Knight, who came of the old pioneer stock of Ohio, and was a native of the State, died in 1838, when our subject was a small boy, and he was only a little child when his mother died. He is the sixth of seven children, five of whom are still living. Being thus early sadly bereft of his parents when he most needed their care, he was bound out to Samuel Fedderoff, a farmer in Salt Creek Township, with whom he lived until he was eighteen years old. He was naturally a bright, intelligent lad, of good parts, but an education was denied him, as he was forced to work when his time should have been given to learning, and his schooling was confined to a brief attendance at a pioneer log schoolhouse. However, his time was not wholly lost, as he learned to work well and to make good use of his faculties, and he has in a measure made up for his early deficiencies in learning by acquiring a goodly fund of information by observation, experience and reading.

At the age of eighteen, Mr. Knight began to work out by the month, receiving $13 a month during the first part of the six 3'ears that he was so engaged, his wages graduallj' increasing until he obtained 122 a month. He wisely saved his mone}' and in due time became independent and was able to establish a home for the wife of his choice. After his marriage, he located on a farm that he bought in Washington Township, and farmed that some years. In 1867, he purchased the farm upon which he has since lived on section 15, of the same township, which, under his careful system of cultivation, is ver}^ fruitful, jMclding abundant harvests and a comfortable income. Its one hundred and sixt3'-six acres are well drained and fenced, and our subject has made extensive improvements since the farm came into his possession, repairing and remodeling the buildings, which are commodious and well fitted up, and everything about the place shows the guidance of a master hand and the presence of one who thoroughly understands his calling. Mr. Knight has a well-balanced mind, is sensible and shrewd, carrying on his affairs in a business-like manner, fairness and justice characterizing all his dealings, and lie bears a high reputation among his fellow-citizens, who know him well and esteem him accordingly. In his political views, he is a decided Democrat and is unswerving in his allegiance to his party.

Our subject was married in 1859 to Miss Rebecca Leist, who was an important factor in his prosperity. Mrs. Knight was also a native of Pickaway County, her birthplace in Washington Township, and she was a daugliter of one of its early pioneer families. Her parents, Jacob and Julia Leist, were natives of this State, and have long since jtassed away. Mrs. Knight was a valued member of the Evangelical Association and was a true Christian in every sense of the word. Her otherwise happy wedded life with our subject was overshadowed by the death of four of their nine children, Charles, Georgia, Emma and Ida. These are spared: Lizzie, Rose, Laura, John and Minnie. Our subject's wife departed this life at her home April 20, 1892.

ON. MANFRED WILLARD. The Fayette County Bar has a number of able representatives at AVashington C. H., prominent ')) among whom is the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, and who, for a quarter of a century or more, has been actively identified with tlie legal fraternity of the city. His office is located in the Yeoman Block, where he occupies a pleasant suite of rooms. Eminent for his close and careful study of every technicality of the law, his knowledge alike of State and general laws and his ability as a pleader, he is worthy of special mention in a volume dedicated to the leading citizens of the county.

With the exception of the period during which he was in the service of the Union, Mr. Willard has passed his life principally in Washington C. II., where he was born September 18, 1839. His parents, Lochart D. and Mary J. (Doren) Willard, were natives, respectively, of Franklin County, Mass., and Pennsylvania. The father came to the Buckeye State In 1830, and afterward commenced the study of law with Wade Loofborrow, one of the first practitioners of the county. He was admitted to practice at the Bar of the State of Ohio, and carried on an extensive practice until 1853, when he was elected Probate Judge, being the second to fill that position in the county. When he resigned from that oHice in February, 1864, he removed with his family to Illinois, and later to Alexander, Thayer County, Neb., where he still resides. Prior to 1856, he was a Democrat, but since that year has been a firm upholder of Republican principles.

After completing his schooling in the common schools of Washington C. H., our subject was engaged in farming, being for a time on his father's farm in Fayette County, and also engaging in the same way in Illinois. August 1, 1861, he enlisted in Illinois, and the first quota being complete, the Governor refused to allow others to leave the State. The company met August 1, at Moline, and, forming a cavalry company, proceeded to Ft. Leavenworth, where they were attached to the regiment. They were ordered to Lexington, Mo., where they remained until the Union forces surrendered to Gi}\\. Price. On the da}^ of the suri-ender, they were paroled, and sent to Hannibal, Mo., where they re-organized as another regiment.

Mr. Willard returned to Illinois to recruit another company, and afterward went to his old home in Ohio, where he raised a company. Not desiring to go back to INIissouri, and being a paroled prisoner, he recruited Company H, Sixtieth Ohio Infantr}', of which he was commissioned Captain. In 1862, he participated in Fremont's campaign against Jackson, and engaged in skirmishes all the way from Franklin, Va., through Strawsburg, to Port Royal and Cross Keys, thence to Winchester, where he remained until the latter part of August, 1862. He then proceeded to Harper's Ferry, where, for the second time, he was captured. Being wounded, he remained in a luivate residence for thirty dajs, when his father succeeded in getting him home. His sufferings and exposures had undermined his robust constitution, until he was reduced from his average weight of one hundred and eight}' pounds to ninety-eight.

Soon after his return home, Mr. Willard was elected Probate Judge, and served in that capacity for one term. INIeanwhile, he studied law in the office of Briggs & Palmer, and was admitted to the Bar in 1867. He at once commenced a general practice, which he has since continued. In connection with his legal work, he was Cashier of the

Fayette County National Bank from 1872 until 1875. He is interested in all public measures that tend to promote the interest of the people, and politically, is a Republican. His marriage, Ajn'il 14, 1865, united him to Mrs. Worley, who, by a former marriage, was the mother of one child, Charles B., now a jeweler in St. Joseph, Mo. Mr. and Mrs. Willard are the parents of three children: Jane B., Laura A. and Herbert M.

ACK ARTHUR LANUM. County Coroner, Circleville, Ohio. Nowhere in Pickaway County can we find a man more popular or more highly esteemed than the subject of this sketch, who has won a liost of friends by his many estimable qualities of mind and heart. At present, under the firm title of Albaugh & Lanum,heis engaged in the undertaking business, and, as all know, there are few liranches of business, if an}', that require more consideration or sympathetic feeling than that of undertaker. Mr. Lanum seems well adapted for this business, being well grounded by nature and experience, and his (juiet tact, coupled with decision and perfect, unostentatious knowledge of the business required, has increased his patronage very materially.

Mr. Lanum comes of an old Virginia family and is of English descent. His father, Vincent Lanum, was a Virginian, as was also the grandfather Lanum. Vincent Lanum followed agi'icultural i)ursuits in his native State until about 1832, when the fertile soil of the Bucke\'e State tempted him to make a settlement within its borders. He first went on horseback, selected a suitable location near what subsequently liecame the home place in Union Township, and was afterward married theie. His farm was six miles south of Washington C. H., in Fayette County, and he began making improvements. He had accumulated a handsome property, but by going securit}' for his friends lost it all. His wife died and he was the second time married, after which he located on the farm where he died, in 1867. At the time of Morgan's raid, he went to Washin<j;ton C. H. and offered his services but was refused on account of his age. This did not please him at all, and after coming home, he molded bullets and tlie next morning, rifle in hand, saw him en route for Chillicothe. However, on the way he was induced to turn back. He was a Republican in politics, and a Metliodist in religion. His wife, the mother of our subject, bore the maiden name of Liicinda McArthur, a native of Washington C, IL, Ohio, and of Scotch descent. Her fathei-, Arthur McArthur, was a large land-owner and owned the site of the present city of Washington C. H. He was a cousin of ex-Gov. McArthur and was related to the McDougals and Mclves mentioned in Scott's works. Grandfather McArthur was one of the first Marshalls of Washington C. II., and was also Sheriff of the count}-. The stepm ther of our subject, after the death of her husband, kept the family together and reared them to mature years. She died at the home of our subject on the 26tli of July, 1891, when sixty-six years of age. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Mack Arthur Lanum was l)orn in Union Township, Fayette County, Ohio, on the 23d of Januar}^, 1860, and was the only child born of the father's second marriage. He assisted his father in farm work and thus continued until thirteen 3'ears of age. His parents then removed to Washingon C. H. and he attended the Higli School there until just before graduating, when he was obliged to quit on account of ill health. He was subsequently apprenticed to learn the undertaker's trade and continued in this for five years, being most of the time head man. After this, with Thomas Cleveland, he went to Frankfort, Ohio, and bought a drug-store but after one year's experience in this business he concluded that some other enterprise would suit him just as well. For one year after this, he was engaged in business in South and West OhiOjandm 1883 he located in Circleville,where he formed a jifvrtnership in the undertaking business with Mr. Albaugh. ]Mr. Lanum has the largest business of the kind in Circleville, occupies two floors, and is wide-awake and enterprising.

was married in October, 1890,to Miss Kate A. Lynch, daughter of James H. Lynch, who was born in tliis State. Socially, Mr. Lanum is a mcmlter of the Independent Order of Odd J'ellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Elks. He holds membership in the Presbyterian Church, and in politics is a Democrat. He has been a delegate to different conventions and is Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Democratic Club of Pickaway County.

He was born March 31, 1825, and is a son of John H. and Sarah (Schyles) Alkire. The father, who was born in Ken tuck}', came to Ohio with Grandfather Alkire when quite young, and was a farmer by occupation. He served in the War of 1812 under Gen. Harrison.

In the usual manner of farmer lads, the boyhood days of our subject were passed and he received very limited educational advantages. When he was fourteen years of age, his father went to Vigo Count}', Ind., but he remained in Ohio and began working by the day or month as a farm hand. Since that time, he has made his own way in the world, and his success in life is due entirely to his own efforts. Working in this way, he managed to lay by a little money, and on the 18th of January, 1846, he was united in marriage with Miss Damia Strain, of Pleasant Township, Madison County, where the lady was born in October, 1828.

Mr. Alkire had a span of horses but sold one in order to purchase furnititre for his house. He continued to woik one season at $11 per month and boarded himself. The next spring, he managed to get another horse and, renting some land, began farming on his own account. Some years afterward, hoping to better his financial condition, he removed to Vigo County, Ind., but was not pleased with the place, and the following spring returned to Ohio. He again rented for some time and as soon as his financial resources had increased sufficiently, purchased fifty acres in Pleasant Town- ship. The land was heavily covered with timl)er, but he cleared the entire track. He afterward bought and sold several farms in this part of the State. He now owns one liundred and thirty-six acres of land in Madison County, and fifty acres in Vigo County, Ind., which his father left him.

Mr. and Mrs. Alkire have never had any children of their own but have given homes to three. The poor and needy have found in our subject a friend, and as far as possible he has aided in all enterprises for the advancement of the public good. In i)olitics, he was llrst a Whig and on the organization of the Republican party, joined its ranks, voting for Fremont in 185G. He is a member of the Christian Church and belongs to the Patriotic Order of Sons of America. For twenty-five years, he has also been a Third Degree Mason. In 1887, he erected his pleasant home in Mt. Sterling and has since lived a retn-ed life, the income derived from his farms being sufficient to keep him throughout his remaining years without any manual labor on his part. Mr. Alkire may trul^-be called a selfmade man, for he began life as a poor boy, emptyhanded, and has worked his way upward to a place among the substantial citizens of the community. His life has been well and worthily spent, and he has the high regard of many friends.

I \ has risen to the high position which he now occupies at the Ohio Bar. As he is widely and favorably known, his sketch will prove of interest to many of our readers.

Mr. Smith was born in Whitestown, Oneida County, N. Y., July 31, 1823. The great grandfather of our subject, Ignatius Smith, was a native of Wales, and in the early part of the eighteenth century settled in Massachusetts. The grandfather, Polj'carpus Smith, was born at Cape Cod, and in an earl}' day became a New York farmer. His death occurred in Whitestown in 1807. He had married Dorothy Otis, a native of the Bay State. Her father, Joseph Otis, was a brother of the celebrated James Otis, of Boston, a Revolutionary orator, and was descended from Jolin Otis, who came from Norfolk County, England.

Joseph Otis Smitli, father of our subject, was born in Whitestown, N. Y., and married Harriet Cone, a native of Westmoreland, Oneida County. Her father, Walter Cone, was a large land-owner of New York, who served in the Revolutionary War and died in the Empire State. He married Dorothy Palmer, who came of an old Connecticut family of Scotch origin. Mrs. Smith died at the age of seventy-five years. In her family were three children: Mark, who followed farming, and died on the old homestead; Palmer, of this sketch; and Mrs. Janet Smith, who died in London, Ohio.

Our subject acquired his education in the common schools and at Hampton Academy, and at the age of twent}^ began teaching. On attaining his majority, he emigrated to London. Ohio, where he engaged in teaching for four winters, and during that time began fitting himself for the legal profession, studying under his brother-in-law, Hon. H, W. Smith. He was admitted to the Bar at Columbus in the old Supreme Court of Ohio, in December, 1846, and the following spring located in Circleville, where he has since engaged in practice. In the fall of 1849, he formed a partnership with Judge Jones, now at Delaware, and the connection continued until 1856. Mr. Smith was elected City Solicitor for two terms, and has served as Prosecuting Attorney, being elected on the Republican ticket. He has never been an olHce-seeker, preferring to give his attention to private practice. He is the oldest attorney of Circleville, and has the largest library in the county. His otiice is situated in the Masonic Temple block and, since 1877, he has been the senior member of the prominent law firm of Smith & Morris. He practices in all the courts of the State and the United States, from the Supreme Court down.

In December, 1858, Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Osborn, a native of Columbus, Ohio, and a daughter of Ralph Osborn, a native of Connecticut, and one of the early settlers of Circleville. He served as Auditor for the State for nearly seventeen 3ears, from 1815 «until 1832, when his death occurred. Three children have been born of their union: Janet, wife of Dr. Greve, a druggist of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Mary Osborn, who was graduated from the Wesleyan College of Cincinnati; and Harriet Otis, a graduate of Bartholomew College, of Cincinnati. The younger daughters have both been highl}'^ educated and have considerable musical talent. Mary is organist in the Methodist Church and is court stenographer of Pickaway County.

Mr. Smith is also an active member of the Methodist Church and serves as Trustee. In politics, he is a stalwart Republican, was Chairman of the County Central Committee and has served as a delegate to the State conventions. He gives liberally to all public enterprises and has done much for the upbuilding of the community. He speaks fluently and with ease, has an excellent memoiy and great skill as a,lawyer,his arguments being logical and convincing. He is a genial, whole-souled man, who is liked by every one. His face will never grow old, for it is so often lighted up with a smile of rare sweetness and contagious gayety, while his eyes twinkle with good humor.

i^^ go-ahead town of Circleville, Ohio, are identified with the grocery trade and prominent among those engaged in it is the firm of Hall & Haramel, which not only handles a full and complete stock of the choicest groceries, but agricultural implements as well. The members of this firm are enterprising and ambitious gentlemen, full of that push and perseverance tiiat secure success in whatever is undertaken.

Mr. Hammel was born in the Buckeye State, Clear Creek Township, Fairfield County, on the 4th of March, 1846, and his father, Eli Hammel, was also a native of Clear Creek Township. The grandfather, George Hammel, was a native of Virginia, but an early settler of

Clear Creek Township, Fairfield Countj^, where he was engaged in tilling the soil for many years. The father of our subject continued the same occupation on the old homestead of eighty acres in that township for a number of ^ears, after whicli he sold out and bought a farm of one hundred and seventeen acres in Amanda Townshii), that county. He was an industrious, thorough-going man, and by liis industry and steady attention to business, ac(|uired a handsome competency. He operated the farm until his death in 1888. He was a firm believer in the advantages of the platform held by the Democratic party, and was a publicspirited citizen. His wife was formerly Miss Matilda Barr, whose father, Thomas Barr, was a native of the Old Dominion, and one of the pioneer settlers of the Buckeye State. She was reared on the old farm, and received her education in the primitive log sclioolhouse of those days, and was a good and true woman, who had many friends.

Of the six children born to this worthy couple, our subject was second in order of birth. Until eighteen years of age, he remained in Clear Creek Township, and, like the majority of farmer lads, divided his time in youth in attending the district school and in assisting his father in the arduous duties on the farm. At the above-mentioned age, he removed with his parents to Amanda Township, Fairfield County, and remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority. After this, he worked on different farms until twentj-six years of age, and then came to the thriving city of Circleville, Pickaway County, where he remained for a short time. Later, he went on a farm in Washington Township, Pickaway County, remained on the same for four years, and then came to Circleville again. Two years later, he engaged in the coal, lime and cement business on Canal Street, and continued this until March, 1882, when he embarked in the grocery business by himself. One year later, Mr. Hall became a partner with Mr. Ilanimel under the firm name of Hall & Hammel, and since then tlie firm has carried on a large and extensive trade. Both gentlemen are capable, enterprising and wide-awake business men, and merit the large trade they have secured. In 1883, these pushing, energetic business men erected their fine, large store, 30x85 feet, and they have this tastily and nicely fitted up with a large stock of the best goods. This thriving business is situated on the corner of Court and High Streets.

Miss Samantha Heffner, whom our subject n)arried in Clear Creek Township, Fairfield County, in 1873, is the daughter of Henry Heffner, who is a resident of this city. She was born in Circleville, and is a lady whose estimable qualities are well known. ]Mr. Hammel was a member of the City Council for two years, from 1881 until 1886, and was on different committees. Both hold membership in the Lutheran Church, and INIr. Hammel is a strong supporter of the principles of the Democratic party. He has been a delegate to the county conventions several times, and is active in all worthy enterprises.

=^EORGE W. HOFFMAN. Many years have passed away since this gentleman closed his eyes upon earthly scenes, but he is still remembered with affection by the citizens of Circleville. It was in that city that he died, in 1864. By his upright and conscientious life, he built for himself a monument that will outlast shafts of granite or statues of bronze, and carved his name higher and in a more enduring manner than though written in l^rass.

The son of John and Susan Hoffman, natives of Kentuck}^, Mr. Hoffman was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, February 7, 1823, and received his education in the common schools of that place. In early manliood he spent several years in the mercantile business and also had charge of extensive farming interests. He served with valor through the ]\Iex-' ican AVar and tlien returned to his Ohio home. In 1855, he located in "Wayne Township, Pickaway Count}', and for three years was occupied in farming pursuits, removing thence to Circleville on account of failing health.

In 1854, Mr. Hoffman was united in marriage with Miss Sallie J. Crouse, who was born near Chillicothe, Ross County, this State. Her grandfather, John Crouse, was a soldier during the War of 1812 and was a native of Penns3lvania, whither his ancestors had removed from North Carolina. At an early period in the history of this State, he removed hither and settled on a farm near Chillicothe. There his son David was born and reared, his youth being passed in rural pursuits and in assisting his father in the distiller\^ He built the first paper mill in the State of Oliio, which was located in Ross County, about seven miles from Chillioothe, and operated it during the remainder of his life, transacting an extensive business.

The death of Mr. Crouse, which took place in 1838, removed from the scenes of his usefulness one who had been actively connected with the growth of the count3^ He was a firm Democrat and a member of the Legislature at the time of his death, always taking an active interest in politics. So successful was he, that at the time he was called hence he was one of the wealthiest citizens of Ross County, owning large tracts of land in various localities and being interested in the banks of Chillicothe, as well as in other places. He was a man of note, wielded an extensive influence and possessed excellent judgment and splendid business qualifications.

The mother of Mrs. Hoffman was known in maidenhood as Elizabeth Boggs and was the daughter of John, and a half-sister of Capt. John Boggs, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Crouse became the parents of eight children who grew to maturity, but only two are now living: Mrs. Hoffman and D. J. Crouse, a very prominent retired citizen of Chillicothe, who has established a national reputation as a breeder of thoroughbred horses, in which he has been very successful.

The early education of Mrs. Hoffman was received in the schools of Hillsborough, Ohio, and she subsequently attended Dr. Beaty's Seminary, at Steubenville, Ohio, graduating from there in 1849. She spent about four years in travel, visiting many places of interest in the East and South, and in 1854 was married to our subject. The}' became the parents of three children: Wood, Crouse and Georgia, the latter being the wife of Will C. Tompkins, a lithographer of New York City.

where Westfall, one of the first villages of Pickaway County, was located. The house of Logan, Chief of the Mingocs, was situated on that farm, the fort being on an adjoining estate. Much of the time since the death of her husband, Mrs Hoffman has resided in Circleville, where she has an attractive residence. She is a member of the Episcopal Church and has helped the city along in the line of religion and education, philanthropy and general culture.

^^^' won distinction as officers during the Civil War, and he has since become no less prominent as one of the foremost farmers and stockmen of !iis native county (Madison), and one who has done much to elevate the standard of the cattle and horses bred within its bounds. His home is on the farm which is his birthplace, in Pike Township, a mile and a half west of Rosedale, where he carries on a large business as a stock dealer.

Captain Guy was born in a tj'pical pioneer home, a little log house built by his father in the early settlement of the count}^ Novembers, 1843, was the date of his birth, and he was the sixth child and fifth son of William and Adelaide (Fullington) Guy, an account of wliom appears in the biographj' of their son, William H. Gu}'. Our subject's first experience at school was in the local district schools, whence he went to the Mechanicsburg High School, where he wns prepared for college, and he then entered the Ohio University at Delaware.

He was a student in that institution when the war broke out, and in 1862 he laid aside his books for the sword, full of youthful ardor in his patriotic desire to help defend the honor of his country at the front. He enlisted in Company D, Sixtysixth Ohio Infantry, as a private, but he gave such evidence of his courage, fortitude, and efficiency in battle, that he was raised from the ranks to the position of Sergeant, then to that of First Lieutenant, and lie finally was promoted to be Captain of

Company K of the regiment in which he enlisted, which was one of the first that was veteranized. He was in tlie battles of Dumfries (Va.), Chancellorsville (Va.) and Gettysburg (Pa.) He was then dispatched with his regiment to New York City at the time of the big riot, and for a while was enencamped on Governor's Island in the harbor of that city, being under command of Gen. Hooker.

The Captain was subsequently transferred to the Army of the Cumlierland, and his company was sent to Chattanooga with otlier forces, about twelve thousand strong. He helped win the da}^ in the celebrated battle "above the clouds" on Lookout Mountain, November 24, 1863, and the day after, that of Mission Ridge, and subsequently he did good service at Ringgold, Ga. That same year he re-enlisted as a veteran for three years, or as long as the rebellion should last. He fought with his usual valor and coolness at Rockface Ridge, (Ja., and in the hotly-contested engagement at Resaca. At Peach Tree Creek he saw Gen. Joseph W. Hitt shot from his horse and killed in the midst of the battle. The Captain accompanied Gen. Sherman in his famous march to the sea, and he was present and in vigorous action in the battles of Pine Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta, and Peach Tree Creek, and helped to lay siege to Atlanta. Our subject followed the fortunes of war until after peace was declared, and he was mustered out of the army under General Order No. 24, June 28, 1865, having served with his regiment in twelve different States, traveled eleven thousand miles, and done his share of the fighting in eighteen hard-fought battles. During all that time he never received a scratch, although he was often in the hottest of the fray, and he was off duty only one week, and that on account of sickness.

On his return home to Pike Township, Capt. Guy was taken sick with intlammatory rheumatism from the effects of exposui-e while in the South, i and for five long and wear}' months he was help- ; less and confined to his bed. He was finally taken to a Cleveland institution and was cured of that terrible malady. Since his recovery he has devoted himself to the management of his extensive interests. The fine farm ui)on which he lives comprises six hundred acres of land belonging to himself and his wife, being the combined homesteads that once were the property of their fathers. Beside this estate, the Captain has seven hundred acres of land which he has leased for fifteen years. He is largely engaged in handling imported horses, and in 1870 went to England to purchase some very fine draft horses. As a member of the Darby Plains Importing Co., he is doing much to encourage the breeding of blooded horses.

April 15, 1879, Capt. Guy was united in marriage to Miss Flora E., daughter of John and Abigail Kennedy. She too is a native of Pike Township. She was educated at the Western University at Delaware, and is a lady of much culture, of superior tact, and understands full well the art of making home a cheerful, pleasant and hospitable abode. Two cliildren complete the household of our subject and his wife: I^arl W.,born September 26, 1880; and Erma Belle, born July 29, 1882.

A man of great force of character, with a strong, evenly-balanced mind, the Captain is a leader in public and political alfairs in his community. He is a firm Republican, and has never faltered in his allegiance to his i)arty since the days that he fought so nobly for its principles on Southern battlefields. He is Trustee of Pike Township, and for twelve years has looked faithfully after the interests of the township in that capacity. For four years lie was Justice of the Peace. He is a stockholder in the Central Bank of jMechanicsburg, and one of the Directors of that institution. He is prominently identified with the Grand Army of the Republic as Commander of the Stephen A. Baxter Post No. 88, of Mechanicsburg.

^ OHN T. WALTERS, owner of the Mt. Sterling Roller Mills, IS a native of Jasper, Ohio. ^.^^ He was born on the 18th of February, 1841, \v^^ and is a son of Levi and Sarah A. (Riley) AValters. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, and when a young man came to Ohio, locating in Ross County, where he met and married Miss Sarah A. Riley, and died when our subject was only four years old. His mother was afterward married again and he remained at home until thirteen years of age, when he hired out by the month to Thomas K. Kobinson, in Pickaway County. Being pleased with the place, he made a contract to remain with Mr. Robinson until he attained his majority and was to be allowed to attend school three months eacli year. On reaching the age of twenty-one, he was to have a new suit of clothes and llOO. Mr.Walters then worked as a farm liand until the late war broke out, when, on the 26th of May, having obtained permission from his benefactor, he enlisted in Company B, Thirteenlh Ohio Infantry, in tlie first call for three-years' men. lie participated in tlie battles of Stone River, Chickamauga, Shiloh, and in many others. He was very fortunate, in that he was never wounded or taken prisoner, but was in the hospital at Camp Dennison, Ohio, witli camp fever, and at Elizabethtown, Ky., for six weeks with the smallpox. When his term of service had expired, he received his discharge in Louisville, in .Tune, 1804.

Mr. AValtei'S then returned to the North and began to work l)y the month as a farm hand, which occupation he followed for about two years. He then was united in marriage with Mary E. Roliinson, daughter of his former emplo_yer, their union being celebrated October 7, 186(3. They began their domestic life upon a rented farm and Mr. Walters continued to engage in agricultural pursuits for twenty-two 3'ears. With the capital he saved during that time, he purchased his present property in May, 1889. He has since improved liis mills by putting in steam machinery and has built an addition, thus enlarging his room and capacity. The daily output is about thirty-five barrels, and he lias a large and constantly increasing business.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Walters have been l)orn eight children: Ellie Elorence, who was born in Pickawa}^ County, February 13, 1868, is the Avife of B. B. Musselman, a farmer of Madison County, and to them have been born four children; Thomas Filmoro, who was born in Pickawa}' County, February 15, 1871, is married and has two children; Carrie May, who was born in Madison County, August 3, 1874; Sarah A., who was born in Pickaway County in A]iril, 1878; Daisy E. was born in

Madison County, March 5, 1882; John S. was born in the same county, April 1, 1884; May was born in Madison Count}', August 5, 1887; and Foster Claj'ton was born July 28, 1891.

Mr. Walters cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1864, and has since been a stanch Republican. He has served as Township Trustee and Town Treasurer, but has never been a politician in the commonly accepted meaning of the term, as he prefers to devote his time and attention to his business interests.

AJ. EMANUEL GEPHART, whose valor during the late war brought him official recognition, has resided in Circleville since February 28, 1836. He is descended from thrifty and worthy German ancestors and his grandfather was the first representative of the family in the United States, his home being in Pennsylvania for a time. Later, he removed to Martinsburgh, W. Va., where the closing years of his life were passed. Near that city, his son Bernard, who was born in the Keystone State, operated a large farm of three hundred acres. He was a man of strong determination of character and generous disposition, and in his religious views was a member of the German Reformed Church. His death occurred in 1829, in the prime of manhood; his wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Folk, died in Circleville, in 1872, at an advanced age.

The family to which Emanuel Gephart belongs comprised eleven children and he was the fifth in order of birth. He was born near Martinsburgh, Berkeley' County, W. Va., April 21, 1814 and was a lad of fourteen years when his father died. Before he was thus orphaned, he had attended the schools of Martinsburgh, but at the above-mentioned age he was apprenticed to the trade of a carpenter under Mr. Hostler. In 1836, having decided to cast in liis lot with the citizens of Ohio, he came with his famil}' to Circleville, tlie removal being made with a six-horse team. In this cit}-, he found constant employment at his trade and formed a partnership with l\is brother Abram, continuing in that connection for some years. It was the custom in those days for the contractors to take the joJ) and the parties to furnish the material.

While engaged in the trade of a carpenter, the Civil War broke out and in 1862 Mr. Gephart raised a company in sixteen days. The compan\', which was mustered in at Camp Circlevllle, w^as known as Company E, One Hundred and Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, the date of their enlistment being August 22. With our subject as Captain, they marched South and participated in the severe engagement of Chickasaw Bluffs, in which they suffered defeat. They were present at Champion Hills and the siege of Vicksburg, marching thence to New Orleans and through the swami)S of Louisiana to Texas, engaging in numerous skirmishes while en route to the last-named State.

Returning from Texas in April, 1864, the regiment marched along the banks of the Red River and every day engaged in skirmishes with the Rebels. At Mobile, they participated in the Farragut expedition, and when the war was brought to a close, they were ordered to Texas and there discharged in September, 1865. Our subject first commanded the compan}^ as Captain, remaining in that position until the spring of 1864, when he was promoted to Major of the One Hundred and Fourteentli Ohio Infantry. Upon his return home, he once more engaged at the carpenter's trade and was occupied in that wa}' until he was appointed by the Government store-keeper at the Morris Steely & Co. Distillery, and afterward transferred to the same post in Fairfield County.

After occupying that position for some seven or eight years, Maj. Gephart resigned and came to Circleville, where he embarked in business as a wholesale liquor, oil and tobacco merchant, and is now proprietor of the principal wholesale house of the cit}'. Maj. Gephart has been identified with the public affairs of Circleville for a long time and served as Alderman several terms before the late war. For thirteen years, he filled the position of Trustee of Circleville Township and has held other offices of responsibility. He is a charter member of Groce Post, G. A. R., and is prominent with the veterans of the war. In his political sympathies,

In 1835, Maj. Gephart was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Shaffer, a native of Pennsylvania, who died in Circleville after ten years of wedded life. Of the six children born of the union, four died in childhood and only one now survives, Ellen, Mrs. Hoffman, of C'ircleville. Noah enlisted when eighteen years old as a mcinbei- of Comi)any A, One Hundred and Fourteentli Oliio Infantry and served throughout the war, being mustered out as Quartermaster, with the rank of First Lieutenant. Eight years after the close of the war, he died of quick consumption.

The second marriage of the Major united him with Maria Shultz, a native of Pennsylvania, and an intelligent and worthy lady. They became the parents of four children, namel}^: P^mma, who nsarried Edward Olds and died in 1886; Adell, ]\Irs. Foresraan, of Indiana; Kate, who is at home, and Josie, wife of George Stough, Assistant Cashier of the First National Bank at Circleville. The various members of the family find a religious home in tlie Presbyterian Church and occupy a high place in the esteem of the community.

EL M E R J E F F E R S O N CHENO WE'14 1. Among all the residents of Oak Run Township, Madison Count}"^, none show greater aptitude for business transactions, or better judgment in the conduct of affairs, than Mr. Jefferson Chenoweth, who was born on the place which he now occupies, October 3, 18(51. He is a son of Elijah and Susan (Pringle) Chenoweth, also natives of this county, and who are residing at the present time in Fairfield Township.

The father of our subject was born IMarch 15, 1831, and is the son of John F. and Margaret Chenoweth. He received but little aid in a monied way from his father, and at one time had in his possession fourteen hundred acres of land, which was the direct result of his industry and good management. Our subject supplemented the knowledge gained in the schools of his lo- cality b}^ an attendance at Oberlin College, where be took a three-years' course in the literary department, and later was graduated from Bryant <k Stratton's Business College. Returning home when twenty-three years of age, he gave his attention to handling stock, to which he was peculiarly adapted, and of whicli he has made a signal success.

The lady to whom our subject was married, December 2, 1885, was Miss Abbie M. Alexander. She was born in Clarksburg, this State, Septemlier 28, 1867, and is the daughter of the Rev. A. M. and Matilda (Armstrong) Alexander. She has been given a good education, and is a graduate of the public schools of Westerville, this State, where her marriage occurred. To Mr. and Mrs. Clienoweth have been born three children: Mary, who was born March 16, 1887; Max, August 3, 181^; and Pringle, June 19, 1891. Our subject received four hundred acres of land from his father, which he has improved, and erected thereon all the buildings which are to be found on a firstclass estate.

A Republican in politics, Mr. Chenoweth cast his first Presidential vote for James G. Blaine, in 1884. He is very popular in his community, and in 1891 was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he is filling in a most satisfactory manner. With his wife, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and by his cordial and pleasing manners has gained the friendsiiip of the best residents of the count3\

VK^xELSON HITLER is a wealthy farmer of I /// l'if'^''^^'^f^y Township, where he has a large /Iv,,^ and finely equipped farm, lying mostly on the famous Pickaway Plains. Our subject is a native of this section of Pickaway County, born on tlie old Hitler homestead June 24, 1833, and he represents some of its very earliest settlers, his grandparents on both sides of the house being among the very first to locate in this part of Ohio, and his father, Jacob Hitler, was one of the foremost farmers and most honored citizens during a residence here of more than eight}' consecutive years.