Pickaway Township (part 33 of 49)

The subject of this biography was reared to manhood under pioneer influences, receiving his education in the primitive schools of the time, and early learning to do all kinds of farm work. At the age of nineteen, he began life as a farm hand in the employ of others, his wages ranging from $7 to llO and $12, and even $16 a mouth, and in that manner he obtained capital to start for himself, after being thus engaged for several years. He is a self-made man, and by the aid of his wife, who has been a true helpmate and a wise counselor, he has built up a home replete with comfort, and has improved one of the best farms of the township. It comprises three hundred and twent3'-two acres of choice land, which is well tilled, and is provided with a good set of buildings, his barn being one of the finest built in this section. Mr. Snyder is well known for his strict honesty and unswerving integrity- of thought and act, and he and his wife enjoy a high reputation for their unbounded hospitality and charitable spirit. They have witnessed the many ciianges that have been wrought in this township and they have played well their part in its material and social development. He has served as School Director and has never neglected an opportunity to do all in his power to promote the progress of the community. He and his wife are sincere Christians, and his religious relations are with the Lutheran Church, of which ho is a member, while she belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. and Mrs. Snyder entered upon their wedded life November 20, 18.56, and it has been blessed to them b}' the birth of nine children, namely: Sarah F., wife of Daniel Stein; Mary C, wife of William May; Louisa J., wife of Lyman Reigle; Emma J., wife of John May; Clara B., wife of William Hall; Flora E., a student at the Normal School at Ada; Edson .J., also attending school at Ada; Ada F., and an infant who died unnamed.

of Daniel and Mary (Peters) Walters. Her father was a Pennsylvanian, while her mother was a native of Maryland, and was of (icrmnn descent. Her paternal grandparents were early settlers of Fairfield County, having located there when her father was eight years old. Mrs. Sn>'der is one of eleven children, of whom these six are living, .Tohn, Samuel, Festus, Caroline (Mrs. Reuben Murray), .Iosei)hine (Mrs. Thomas Oritfin) and Mrs. Snyder.

OSEPH M. HOWELL, M. D., Secretary of the Board of Pension Examiners and a leading physician and surgeon of Washington C. H., was born in Auglaize County, Ohio, March 17, 1863, the son of Joseph O. and Jane (Miller) Howell. His youth was passed upon his father's farm, and, like so many who have since attained to usefulness and conspicuous i)Ositions in the professions, he engaged in tilling the soil during his bo3iiood. He was a studious child, possessing unusual mental acuteness and keen perceptive qualities. Facts gleaned from his textbooks were stored in his mind, until he had accumulated a large fund of knowledge from which to draw as occasion suggested.

His course of stud}^ completed in the common schools of the neighborhood, our subject, ambitious to excel and desirous of increasing his knowledge, entered the Ohio University at Ada, where lie completed his literary studies. On starting out for himself, he taught for three winters in a select school in his native county, and employed his leisure time in reading medicine with Dr. H. L., Mann, of Wapakoneta, for one year, and with Prof. R. W. Thrift, of Lima, for about the same length of time. He took courses of medical lectures at the Starling Medical College, in Columbus, Ohio, from which he was graduated March 4, 1885.

Opening an office in Corning, Periy County, Ohio, the young Doctor soon established a good countiy practice, but feeling that his interests would be better subserved in another and larger city, he went on a tour of inspection through the West and Southwest, traveling some eight thousand miles, but returning better satisfied with the Buckeye State than ever before. In 1888, he located at Lumberton, Clinton County, from which place he removed to Washington C. H. in 1890. Although his residence in this city has extended over a comparatively brief period, he already is deei»ly engrossed in professional labors and has little time for social enjoyments and recreations. During the administration of President Harrison, he was appointed a member of the Board of Pension Examiners, through the influence of his intimate friend. Col. Doane, Member of Congress for this district, and soon after the appointment, January 11, 1891, was elected Secretary of the Board. In the enjoyment of the society of his wife and children, the Doctor finds one of his greatest pleasures. He was married April 10, 1884, to Miss Eva, daughter of Dr. J. M. Flood, of Springfield, Ohio, and they are the parents of two bright and intelligent children, Lorena and Fred. Dr. and Mrs. Howell are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and sincere Christians, ever endeavoring to make the world better for their presence in it. Socially, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is identified with both the Fayette and Green County Medical Societies, and also the State Medical Society.

Wl OSEPII P. MILLER. Among the esteemed and representative citizens of Walnut Township, there arc none more worthy of a place in this record than the subject of this sketch and his good wife. He is a native of this part of Pickaway County, born September 10, 1832, and is a son of Peter and Mary (Scothorn) Miller, honored pioneers of this county, who were natives respectively of Berks County, Pa., and of Greenbrier County, Va.

When a young n an, Peter Miller emigrated to this county with his parents and other members of the family, coming with team and wagons, and settling on section 3, Walnut Township, taking up their abode in the woods, and being among the first pioneers to venture into these parts. They had to endure many hardships in their frontier life and to deny themselves of many comforts. Their somewhat limited fare was reinforced by wild game, as deer and other animals were them plentiful here. Peter Miller did good service as a soldier in the War of 1812. He was a man of a great deal of character, whose counsel was often sought, and he rose to prominence in his adopted county. For twenty-one years, he was Justice of the Peace, and so well did he administer the laws that in all the many cases tried before him there was never an appeal made to a higher court, the litigants aj)- pearing before him having the highest confidence in his honesty and fair spirit. He married nearly a hundred couples while acting as Justice, he being a favorite with the young people, who often came a distance of many miles on horseback, accompanied by their friends, to have him tie the nuptial knot. He served as County Commissioner several terras in an earl}^ day, and was otherwise active in public life. He was a Whig in politics, and voted for Gen. William Henry Harrison. He was an exceedingly charitable man, and while not a church member, contributed libei'ally to churches, and used his influence to promote morality and elevate the social status of the communit3^ He was thrown from a horse and killed in 1849, and was greatly lamented by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. His name is still cherished for his valuable services as a pioneer of the county.

Five of the eight children born to the parents of our subject are living: Elizabeth, wife of Enoch Hines; Stephen; Mary A., wife of Adam Klar; William H. and Joseph P. He of whom this sketch is principally written was reared to man's estate under pioneer influences, and has done his share of pioneer labor. His education was conducted in the earl}' district schools of Walnut Township, which did not offer the advantages afforded to the 3'outh of to-day, but by reading and observation our subject has become well informed and is posted on current topics. When the war was raging the fiercest, he deemed it his duty to leave his family, to place his interests in the hands of his watchful wife, and go forth from his beloved home to do what he could for the honor of the old flag, for which his father had nobly fought when it was assailed bj^ foreign foes in the early part of the centur_y. Accordingly, he identified himself with the Home Guards, becoming a member of Company C, One Hundred and Fiftyfifth Regiment, which was attached to the Army of the Potomac. He was placed on guard at Norfolk, Va., and acted in that capacity subsequently at City Point and White House Landing, and also at Martinsburg, Va. He was honorably discharged August 27, 1864, at the expiration of his term of enlistment of one hundred days. His army life is commemorated by his connection with Parson Post No. 670, G. A. R., at Nebraska, of which he is one of the leading members. He has served the post as Sergeant, and is now Chaplain thereof. He is a credit to the citizenship of his native county in every way, and is deeply concerned in all that pertains to its well being. He has assisted in the management of the locnl schools as Director, and in him the Republican party finds an intelligent supporter. Mr. Miller returned to his home in Madison Township after he left the arm}', and found that his capable wife had kept his farm in good order, keeping it up to the same high state of cultivation that it had reached under his fostering care. He still retains that farm, which comprises one hundred and twent3^-two acres of wellimproved land, but after living on it a quarter of a centur}' he removed with his family to his present pleasant place of residence on section 16, in his native township.

Mr. Miller was married, October 1, 1854, to Miss Mahala Culp, also a native of Walnut Township. Mrs. Miller was born June 7, 1835, and is a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Spangler) Culp. Her parents came to Pickaway County in the early da3'S of its settlement, and for a time lived in Salt Creek Township. They then came to Walnut Township, and resided here for years, the father d3'ing in 1872, and the mother in 1864. He was one of the early auctioneers of AYalnut Township. In politics, he was a Democrat. Both he and his wife were valued members of the Lutheran Church. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom these six are living: Amos; Harriet, wife of George

Cromley; Cynthia, widow of .John Zaayer; Naomi, widow of Monroe Bradley; Lorain, wife of Benjamin Brobst; and Mrs. Miller. Our subject and his wife have been blessed with two children: Sarah A., deceased, and Henry E.

living at Bloomingburgh, has been a resident of Fayette Covuity for nearly seventy 3^ears, ^^ and is one of its oldest and most venerated citizens, who is deserving of honor as a pioneer, in that he has reclaimed a goodl3' farm from the wilderness that prevailed when he came here as a h^y. A native of Ohio, our subject was born Februarv 3, 1810, in one of the earliest pioneer homes of Ross County, that was situated five miles from Chillicothe. His father, whose given name was William, and who was a Pennsylvanian by birth, came to this State in 1796, in Territorial days, and purchased Government land, which he developed into the farm just mentioned as the birthplace of his son, and on that he spent his remaining years, diligently engaged in agricultural pursuits, and in attending to the duties of his office as Justice of the Peace, in which capacit}" he served many years in Ross Count3'. He was a man of firm religious convictions, and the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a member, found in him one of its mainstays. In politics, he was a Whig. He was of sterling Irish ancestry, both of his parents having been born in Ireland. He was twice married; the maiden name of his second wife, the mother our subject, was Sarah Con well, and she was a native of Penn- S3'lvania. Her parents also came from Ireland. She lived to be sevent3'-five years old. Of her eight children, all grew to maturity but one, who was drowned when young.

He of whom this biograph3' is principally written is the sixth child and third son of his parents. In 1824, he came to Fayette Count}^ with his mother, with whom he made his home until her death. He always devoted himself to farming, from the time he was old enough to handle a hoe and spade, until he retired witli a competency to spend his last years in comfort, free from the cares and labors that beset him earlier in his career. He remained on the same farm in Paint Township man}' years, and in the meantime placed his one hundred and thirty-six acres under good tillage, and erected a substantial set of buildings, including a comfortable, well-built house, good barns, etc. In 1875, he sold his farm at a good profit, and removed to his present place of residence in the pretty village of Bloom ingburgh, abandoning his business as a general farmer. Mr. Robinson is a man of unimpeachable rectitude of character, and the record of his long life is such as to command tiie fullest approbation and confidence of his fellow-men. He was active in public life for many 3'ears as Supervisor of Paint Township, and the Repul)licau party has always found in him a steadfast adiierent, while the Presbyterian Church numl)ers him among its most valued members.

Our subject has been blessed with a good wife, whose fidelity and constant helpfulness have been of important service to him. Mrs. Robinson, who bore the maiden name of Eliza A. Stitt, was born in Orange County, N. Y., Januar}- 24, 1811, a daughter of Luke and Jane (Young) Stitt. She was married to our subject, June 19, 1834, and for fifty-eight ^-ears thej' have shared life's joys and sorrows. They have never had any children but those of adoption, whom they have reared as tenderly as if they were their own.

>ipx,OAH O. DAVENPORT is another of the I jj man}' prominent citizens of Pickawa}^ /1\^^ County, Ohio, who was born in the Buckej^e State, and is one of the popular lumbermen of Circleville, that State. The "Davenport Lumber Yard" has, for many 3ears, been universally known in this city and count}' for fair dealing, reliability, and the variety and size of its stock of all kinds- of lumber that enter into the construction of buildings, fences, bridges, etc. The business was established in 1840 by the late Mr. George Davenport, who, until his decease last yeai'.

conducted it in a manner that gave it a reputation for reliability and enterprise, and won for it the confidence of the public. Since the decease of its founder, his son, Mr. N. G. Davenport, who has been associated with the business for eighteen years, purchased the interest of his father's estate, and has conducted the affairs of the enterprise. Mr. Davenport has taken hold of the affairs of this old and reliable business with push and energ}', is a man of excellent business acumen, and has met with well-deserved success. He has now in stock, a large variety of moulded front doors, verandas, porches, window and door screens, outside and inside blinds, mouldings, frames, casings, porch colums, and all the essentials for the construction of a house. He has a very large stock, with prices of the lowest, and that his efforts have resulted already in augmenting the business is evident from the fact that he has this spring secured contracts, in competition with home and foreign dealers, for furnishing material for some of the largest buildingjobs let this season, among which are thirteen cars of lumber for the Crites Brothers' Flouring Mill, now in process of construction.

The father of our subject, George Davenport, was born in Staffordshire, England, on the od of June, 1817, and his father, .Samuel Davenport, was also a native of that country, and was employed in her Majesty's service as Queen's Surveyor. The latter was a man of education, and one universally respected. He brought his family to Utica, N. Y., in 1832, was seventy days in making the voyage, and, after a short residence there, he came to Pickaway County, Ohio, locating on a farm of three hundred and twenty acres in Walnut Township, where he cultivated the soil until his death, when fifty years of age. He w\as a member of the Episcopal Church. The father of our subject w\as but fifteen years of age when he accompanied his parents to America and settled with them on the farm in Pickaway Ctunty, Walnut Township. After reaching mature years, he bought a farm of three hundred acres in Pickaway Township, but later located in Circleville, and was superintendent for his brother-in-law, James S. AVilkes, at his warehouse and in the lumber business, until the death of INIr. Wilkes. In 18.58. Mr. Davenport bought the lunibei--3aids in Cireleville, and continned to carry on this business in a very successful manner until his death on the 14th of November, 1890. In politics, he affiliated with the Republican part}^, and was on the City Council for some time. He was a member of the Board of Education, and socially, was a member of Columbia TiOdge No. 32, I. O. O. F. He was a successful lumber merchant for years, was known all over the county and vicinitj^, and was highly esteemed, both in business and social circles. He married jNIiss Margaret A. Lee, a native of Cireleville, Pickaway County, Ohio, and the daughter of Lloj^d Lee, who was one of the pioneer settlers here. Mr. Lee was a native of Baltimore, INId., but came to Ohio at an early date. Mrs. Davenport was the third in order of birth of four daughters, and was reared and educated in Cireleville. She now resides on the old home place, at the corner of Scioto aud AValnut Streets. The four children born to this worthy couple were named as follows: Ella, Mrs. George Krats, of Akron, Ohio; Noah G. (our subject); Lizzie, widow of Bud Ensworth, resides in Cireleville, and is register clerk at the Postofflce; and George A.

Our subject was born in Cireleville, Pickaway County, Ohio, on the 22d of October, 1857, and was reared and educated in the High School. In 1873, he entered the State University at Columbus, and attended about eighteen months. Two years later, he became associated with his father as manager of the yards, and continued in that capacity until the hitter's death. On the 9th of December, 1890, he became sole owner of the yards, the dimensions of which are 500x200 feet. The yard is on the Scioto Valley Railroad and also the Ohio Canal. Mr. Davenport handles all kinds of lumber and building material, has increased his yards and stock, and is doing a flourishing business. Me attends strictly to his lumber business, is a thorough-going, persevering and enterprising man, and is well deserving the measure of success which he has attained. He erected a fine residence at the corner of Washington and Mound Streets in 1888, and there he resides at the present time. Mr. Davenport was married in Upper Sandusky on the 22d of March, 1883, to iNIiss Belle Maxwell, a native of Upper Sandusky, and the daughter of J. A. Maxwell, who was engaged as a dry-goods meichant there. Mr. and Mrs. Davenport are the parents of one child: INIartha Lee. Our subject has been a member of the Board of Equalization for six years, and is the only Republican on the Board. He has shown his appreciation of secret organizations by becoming a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Elks, Mystic Circle, and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. In politics, he is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican party. In the spring of 1892, he was elected a member of the City Council, from the Second Ward, with a majority of forty-five, having a majority of one hundred and forty-five to overcome, and has been a delegate to county and State conventions.

gratifying to the observant biographer to record for the perusal of future generations events of interest in tiie life of a gentleman who has met with success in the prosecution of his profession. In the best sense of the word. Dr. Page is successful, having gained the esteem and confidence of a large circle of friends, as well as an enviable reputation as a dentist. Since 1887, he has followed his profession in Washington C. H., where he is busily engaged in attending to the demands of his extensive practice.

Born in Clermont County, Ohio, June 19, 1855, our subject is the son of Thomas Page, likewise a native of Clermont Count}' and an attorney by profession. His mother, Mary (Dennis) Page, is a sister of Dr. John F. Dennis, a prominent citizen of Washington C. H. Charles E. gained the rudiments of his education in the common schools of his native place and completed his schooling in Clermont Academy. After officiating in the capacity of a teacher for a time in Fayette County, he entered the office of Dr. Dennis, his uncle, with whom he commenced the study of dentistiy. Later, he entered the dental department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor.

With a large fund of information on the various questions arising in the professsion to which he iiad determined to devote his life, and with a worthy ambition to excel, the young Doctor opened an office in Frankfort, Ross County, Ohio, where he practiced for six years. The village was small, and realizing the benefit to be derived from a larger field of work, he resolved to remove to Washington C. H. Here he opened an office in a central location and, devoting himself to his profession with the same assiduity which ever characterized his labors, he soon gained an honorable place among his fellow-citizens, and an established reputation as a reliable dentist.

Tlie popular lady who presides over Dr. Page's home was formerly Miss Lizzie Irwin, and became tlie wife of the Doctor June 25, 1886, at Frankfort, Ohio. Her father, Thomas Irwin, was a resident of that village, where her entire life was spent prior to her marriage. She was a widow at tlie time of her union with the Doctor, her first liusband having been John Anderson. The religious home of Dr. and Mrs. Page is in the Presbyterian Church, and they are active workers in religious and benevolent circles. lie is looked upon as a man who encourages all worthy enterprises and gives his substantial support to whatever tends to the general welfare. Commencing life with little capital, he has already, through habits of industry combined with excellent judgment, accumulated a liandsome com])etence and has a pleasant home, in whicli are found all the comforts of life.

ILLIAIVI IT. THOMAS. It may well be the pride of our subject that he has reclaimed a fruitful tract of land from its natural condition, transforming it into a finely improved and highl}' cultivated farm, one of the best in Monroe Township, and in so doing has materially aided in perfecting the development of the rich agricultural resources of Pickaway, his native count}'. He was born in Monroe Township, May 15, 1835, in the pioneer home of Jackson and

Our subject was educated in the local district school, which in his early days was taught on the subscription plan. It was held in an old log house, that was rudely furnished with slab benches, and was a mile and a half from his home, the way to it lying through the forest, wherein his father Ijlazed the trees to mark the path. His school privileges were limited to three months' attendance in the winter, as his services were required on the farm at other seasons of the year. He was twelve years old when his father died, and at the age of nineteen, he began farming the home place, and carried it on until his marriage, when he located on the farm that he has since occupied in Monroe Township. The log house that stood on the place, and in which he and his bride commenced their wedded life, was burned the same 3'ear, and he built a commodious hewn-log house that is still standing.

In 1876, Mr. Thomas erected a commodious frame residence, a view of which is elsewhere shown. He has also built a good barn and other substantial buildings, and in the thirt>- and more 3^ears that he has had possession of his farm, which comprises two hundred and seventy-eight acres of soil of surpassing fertility, he has wrought a wondrous change b}' the power of persistent and skillful labor, and that which was once a wilderness is now one of the besttilled farms in the township, every acre being under cultivation. It was originall}^ swamp}^, but is now tiled in every direction, and is well drained. He devotes it to mixed farming, and the corn that he raises he feeds to his stock. He fat '.ens a good many cattle, selling a car-load every year, and also raises about a hundred hogs a 3'ear, making much of his money from the sale of his swine. A liberalminded, level-headed man, endowed with those traits of character that win confidence, he has not only done well in the management of his own private affairs, but has made a good public oflrtcial ;is Trustee of the township, which position he has held two 3'ears. His politics are of the Democratic order.

liave reared four children to honorable and useful lives. Their son, Edgar A., is at home; Nathan E. is Deput}' Treasurer of Pickaway* County; Agnes is the wife of Job Carpenter, a farmer residing in Darbyville; Ida M. is the wife of Cliarles vSchram, of New York. Mrs. Thomas was born in PerrA' Township, October 28, 1834, a daughter of 'Nathan Dick, an earl}' settler of the count}', and an extensive farmer of Perry Township in his day. IShe was a fine woman, and in her the Methodist Church had one of its most faitliful working members until her decease, wliich occurred on the 29tliof January, 1880.

^ OIIN J. WALTERS. This prominent farmer residing on section 11, Circleville Township, Pickaway County, was born in Amanda Township, Fairfield County, this State, August 28, 1833. He is the son of Daniel Walters, a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Ohio when eight 3'ears of age with his parents. His fatlier, George Walters, was also a native of the Keystone State, and on coming hither, settled in Fairfield County, clearing a farm in Amanda Township, wliere he continued to reside until his death.

The father of our subject was one in a family of six children, all of whom are deceased. He was reared on his father's farm and continued to live thereon until his death, in the latter part of the '50s, firm in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The maiden name of our subject's mother was Mary Peters. She passed from this life August 24, 1887, when in her eighty-first year. She liad been a member of the Metliodist p]piscopal Church for many years previous to her decease.

He of whom we write was the eldest in the parental famil}' of eleven children, six of whom are living. He was only permitted to attend school six months in his life, but fully appreciating the value of a knowledge of books, he studied at home and is thus self-made in all that that term implies. The schools of that early period wei-e carried on on the subscription plan and bore but little semblance to the schools of the pi*esent da}'. The original of this sketch was aliout twentv-one

3'ears of age on the death of his father, and thus remained at home and cared for his mother until reaching his thirty-first year. In 18G5, he located on a tract of land which he had purchased some time previously, and in 1880 moved to Circleville Township, where he became the owner of two hundred and forty-four acres of productive land, which was known as the old Stout P'arm.

March 5, 1860, Mary J. Dresbach, who was born in Pickaway Township, became the wife of our subject. Mrs. Walters was the daughter of Manuel Dresbach, a native of Fairfield County. Her mother was Mar}^ Rice, daughter of James E. and Jane Rice, early settlers in this county. Mrs. Walters was the eldest of their five children, her birth occurring January 4, 1847. Five children have been born to our subject and his estimable wife: Ida J., who was born November 2i^, 1865, is now deceased; Maggie, born May 19, 1867, is the wife of Edward Valentine and resides in Washington Township; Mazie was born August 29, 1869, and is the wife of Israel ^'alentine, a farmer of Washington Township; Mmie is deceased; John E. was born May 4, 1885.

In politics, Mr. Walters is a Republican and is wai'mly interested in all local aflfairs. He is the possessor of one hundred and thirteeii acres of land in Walnut Township, one hundred and six acres in P'airfield County and two hundred and forty-four acres in the home farm. He carries on general farming, in addition to which he raises the best breeds of cattle and horses. He started out in life with limited means and now ranks among the largest landholders of the count}-. He IS a typical American, having risen to his present station in life through his own exertions, and is now living in the enjoyment of the results of his early industry. A view of his pleasant home is presented on another page.

Samuel Peters, tlie maternal grandfather of our subject, was a native of Maryland, emigrating to Ohio in 1812 with a family of ten children and just that number of dollars in his pocket. One wagon held all their household effects on the journey hither, the trip being made overland, and they settled at once in Fairfield Count}'. The country round about in that earlv dav was covered with a

Manuel Dresbach, the father of Mrs. Walters, was born March t), 1820. lie fell a victim to one of those terrible crimes of violence which grew out of the Rebellion. In 1863, when residing in Amanda Township, Fairfield County, drafting of men for the army by the National Government was begun. In his neighborhood men were mustering in order to prevent being forced to do so. Partisan feeling ran high and violence was threatened in man}' instances. Mr. Dresbach l)eing a strong Unionist, was not one of those who feared to speak his sentiments, and on several occasions told various individuals they had no riglvt to resist the orders of the Government. It was feared by many of his friends that he would meet with violence, but they made no mention of their fear to him.

One day, while threshing upon his farm, Mr. Dresbach went to the house in order to make arrangements for the dinner of the men in his employ-. On his way, he met a man who had worked for him for several years and with whom he was on the l)est of terms, so far as he knew. The man held a rifle, and with scarcely a word of warning, raised it to his shoulder and fired. The ball took effect in the breast of Mr. Dresbach, but he did not fall. The assassin then drew a revolver to finish the bloody deed l»ut was driven away by the threshers, who pursued him with pitchforks, their only weapon at hand. Mr. Dresbach died in a few hours and his murderer narrowly escaped the gallows, but was sent to the penitentiary for life. No cause was even shown for the crime other than that Mr. Dresbach had been distasteful to some of the peoi)le in his neighborhood in regard to politics. It trans])ired in the trial that tlie man some years previously had committed a murder in Virginia.

SAAC D. MILLAR was a native of Pickaway County, born amid its primitive environments May 18, 1822, became one of its most prominent and successful farmers and stockmen, and in his death its citizenship suffered a severe loss. He

AVhen our subject was a boy, his mother died, and he then went to Virginia to live with an aunt, until he attained his majority. He received a fair education in the primitive schools of Ohio and Virginia, and being naturalh' a keen observer of men and events, as well as of nature, he acquired a well-earned reputation of being a well-informed man, who could discourse intelligently on all the topics of the day. He was a good worker, was energetic and s\'stematie in carrying out his plans, developing a spirit of enterprise early in his career, and was marvelously prospered in all that he put his hands to. At the time of his death, October 21, 1867, he was one of the wealthiest men of the township, and one of its extensive land-holders, owning nine hundred acres of as fine land as can be found in all Harrison. He was a first-class farmer, as was attested by the appearance of his farm, and he was counted among the best citizens of the community where he dwelt so long, always displaying a commendable public spirit in helping forward all schemes for civic improvement, and lending his influence to promote the higher interests of township or county. His political views were identical with the doctrines of the Republican party, which found in him a firm supporter.

Mr. Millar was ver}' fortunate in his selection of a wife in the person of Miss Sarah A. Millar, to whom he was wedded Feliruary 22, 1844, as in her he had a true companion, an active helpmate and a wife who devoted herself to his welfare, and tenderl}' cherishes his memory since he entered the life immortal. Seven children were born of their union, of whom these four are living: William; Mary, wife of the Hon. T. E Cromley, of Pickaway Count}'; Leonard, and Annie, wife of Frank Chryst.

Mrs. Millar, who is a daughter of William and Mary Millar, early pioneers of the county, who are represented elsewhere, was born April 24, 1817, and was reared to maturity in Pickaway County, in one of its pioneer homes, receiving her education in the public schools of Harrison Township. She has witnessed the greater part of the growth of this region from its original condition, and is a good type of the worthy daughters of the pioneer stock of the State who have contributed their share to its prosperity. She resides on the home farm in Harrison Township, where she dwelt so many years in contentment and liappiness with her husband, helping liim in the upbuilding of their home, and she enjoys the respect and regard of the entire community, where she is well known.

ACOB MoNEAL. Attention, method and industry are the foundation stones of success in business. To those who labor faith- '' fully success almost invariably' conies. The career of Mr. McNeal viewed from a business and social standpoint is worthy of record in a volume, containing biographical reviews of prominent citizens of Madison Count3^ Integrity of word and deed has been the corner-stone of all his business transactions, and during his residence in West Jefferson he has made many warm friends throughout the county and State.

Jacob McNeal, Sr., the father of our subject, was a native of Cumberland Count}', Pa., where also his mother, who bore the maiden name of Matilda Faught, was born. After their marriage, the parents emigrated from the Keystone State to Ohio, and located in Jefferson Township in 1837, on what is now the site of West Jefferson. Mr. Mc Neal was a farmer by occupation which he prosecuted together with the grocery business. He was elected and served nearly fifteen years as Justice of the Peace in this township and departed this life in 1866. His wife, who still survives him, has attained the advanced age of eighty-eight years.

Of the parental family of nine children, our subject is the only son and was born in Pennsylvania December 16, 1825, thus being twelve years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Madison County. He grew to manhood in Jefferson Township and assisted his father in operating the farm until learning the trade of a carriagemaker and blacksmitli. which occupation he is engaged in more or less at the present time. Early in the '70s, Mr. McNeal was appointed Notary Public and has also filled the offices of Justice of the Peace, Township Clerk and as a member of the School Board. He has taken a lively interest in local affairs, and in politics casts his vote and influence in favor of the Republican party. He has been of much benefit to the community in which he resides, being at all times a willing and cheerful contributor to worthy causes. He owns a nice residence in the village, which is ably presided over by his excellent wife.

October 17, 1847, Jacob McNeal and Miss Mary, daughter of Nehemiah Gates, were united in marriage. The lady was born in Jefferson Township, in 1827 and by her union with our subject has become the mother of eight children, two of whom died in infancy. Those who lived to mature years were Milo, now deceased; Frank, Alice, John, Amber and Pxlith. Alice is the wife of J. M. Longman; Amber married J. W. Nichols; Edith is Mrs. Daniel McCarty; John married Miss Mary Rinn and lives in Jefferson. Frank still remains at home. Our subject is a member of the Masonic order and holds membership in Madison Lodge No. 221, A. F. ct' A. M.

\l EWIS SCOTHORN. The son of a pioneer, and a pioneer himself, this venerable octogenarian, familiarl}' and affectionatelj' known as "Uncle Lewis," is distinguished in the annals of Pickaway Count}' as one of its oldest native-born sons now living within its borders. For more than half a century he has been closely connected with the growth and material interests of Walnut Township, as one of its most skillful carpenters for many years, and also as a successful farmer, who has developed one of its most desirable farms.

Our subject was born in the townsiiip mentioned, January 31, 1812, a sou of Lewis and Anna (Tollman) Scothorn. His father was a native of Scotland, while it is supposed that his mother was born in Virsfinia. In 1804. his father came to Ohio with his family on liorsebaek with three pack horses, and they were among the first to settle in Walnut Township and Pickaway County, taking up their home in the woods, where the howls of the wolves disturbed their slumbers at night, and the wild game that was plentiful furnished a grateful addition to their rather scanty fare. Indians still lived here, and there were but few traces of the coming civilization. The father of our subject was a hard worker, and devoted his energies to clearing a farm, but he finally succuml)ed to the liardships of pioneer life and died in 1816. lie had been twice married, and but two of his cliildren are known to survive, our sul)ject and his brother John, the latter l)eing a resident of Ft. Scott, Kan.

Uncle Lewis >Scothorn was reared to man's estate amid the rude environments of frontier life, growing with the growth of the county, and always making his home in Walnut Township. lie remained on tiie farm on which he was born xmtil he was twenty-one, and then began to work at the trade of a carpenter, which he pursued for many years, being in great demand on account of his ability in that line. He has built some thirty-two barns, and innumerable houses and other buildings. He was especially noted for his expertness in handling the l)road-axe, and in scoring and hewing logs and timl^er. He was also interested in farming, and liad a farm which he rented until his sons be came large enougli to manage it. He has l)uilt three sawmills for himself at different times, and operated them with water power. In the fall of 1847, he settled on his present farm, upon which he has dwelt in comfort and contentment ever since. He erected a sul)stantial and well-arranged l)rick house, and has made various other improvements that have greatly increased the value of the farm since it came into his possession. His land is one hundred and twenty acres in extent, and is well tilled and very productive.

Our subject was married December 5, 1833, to Miss Susanna Westenhaver, a sister of Emanuel Westenhaver, of whom a sketch appears in this work. May 22, 1851, the marriage thus happily begun was ended by the death of the beloved wife, who left man}' sorrowing friends behind, and a famih' devoted to her nicmorv. But two of the ten children born of that union survive: William H. H. and George W.,the latter a resident of Winfield, Kan., and a veteran of the late war, in which he served with honor four years. The - followingare the children of our subject that died: Peter, Nancy, Eliza, Rebecca, Sophronia, Frances, Calvin, and one that died in infancy and was buried with its mother.

Our subject's son William resides on the farm with him, assisting him in its management, and he is a wide-awake, capable farmer. He is a sound Republican in politics, and ever3^thing that concerns his native county has great interest for him as a lojal and public-spirited citizen. He married Miss Fanny Moyer, and they have four cliildren, whom they have named Calvin M., Cora D., Samuel L. and Fanny F.

"Uncle Lewis" is a typical pioneer, and among the many aged representatives of that class of citizens in Pickaway County, none is more honored or worthy than he. He received his education in the primitive log cabin school of old times, the one that he attended having at first a clapboard roof, which was later surmounted with shingles, and slabs served as seats, while the desks for writing were boards placed on wooden pins that had been put into holes bored into the log walls. He early began the struggle of life on his own account, having to depend entirely on his own I'csources, and he has been very successful in accumulating property that places him among the substantial citizens of his native township. He is an unqualified Republican in his politics, and has always heartily favored pul)lic progress.

EF. DUNN. The dry-goods and notion house par excellence of Circleville, or in ^ fact in tiie whole Scioto Valley, is the spacious and handsome emporium of E. F. Dunn & Co. It is in all respects a leading and well-appointed establishment where is always displayed an unusually fine and very complete assortment of everything in the lines indicated, every depart- raent being' replete with the latest novelties. The prices here quoted, too, are rock-bottom figures, yet no inferior goods are allowed to be placed in stock, patrons being assured of receiving honest value and satisfactor}' treatment in this deservedl}' popular store. Mr. Dunn is popular as a businessman, and enjoys the unbounded confidence of all having dealings with him. He employs a number of courteous assistants, but keeps close personal supervision over every department.

Our subject was born in Geneva, N. Y., on the 18th of December, 1863, and inherits English blood from the paternal side of the house, his father, W. G. Dunn, being a native of Cambridge, England. AVhen a boy, the latter came to the United States, located in New York City, and there learned the dry-goods business. He subseqnently removed to Belief ontaine, Ohio, was in the dr3'- goods business there for some time, and then went to Geneva, where he continued in the same business for two years. After this, he returned to New York, settled in Rochester, but not long afterward went to Columbus, Ohio, where he built a brick block on High Street, and was engaged in business there for some time. He was very successful in all his business ventures, was reliable and energetic, and verv popular wherever he located. He owns valuable city property, and is a substantial and progressive citizen. A member of the Second Presbyterian Church, he has been Trustee for some time, and is a liberal contributor to all laudable enterprises. His wife, whose maiden name was Susan Cross, was born in Shaftesbury, P^ngland, but when a child was brought by her parents to the United States, and settled witli them in New York. The father of our subject was twice married, and had two sons by his first union: James, in the dr}^- goods business in Columbus, and William, who is deceased. His second marriage to Miss Cross resulted in the birth of three children, of whom our subject is the youngest, the other two being Joseph and Florence.

E. I"'. Dunn was reared in Columbus, Ohio, from the age of five ^-ears, and attended the High School of that city until he graduated in 1880. Feeling the need of still further educating himself, he entered Marietta Colleafe and oraduated from the scientific and philosophical course in 1884 with the degree of B. l*h. After this, he was engaged with his father in business until INIarch, 1889, when he came to Circleville, and purchased a small stock here. This he has increased in every vvay, and is now the proprietor of one of the largest, finest and best selected dry-goods houses in the Scioto Valley. He is a sharp, shrewd business man, and is as liopular in social as in business circles. Our subject was married in Circleville on the 2d of February, 1892, to Miss Florence Courtright, a native of Circleville, Ohio, where she received the rudiments of an education, but later finished in Cincinnati. She is a refined and educated lady, and is well liked by all. She is a daughter of Judge S. W. Courtright, one of the county's prominent men. Mr. Dunn is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is a stanch Republican in his political views.

OHN PANCAKE, who is known throughout Madison County as a man of more than ordinary business enterprise and exceptional sagacity in money matters, has accumulated wealth by farming and stock-dealing on a large scale, and, still in the prime of life, is actively engaged in business, but now resides in his beautiful home that he has made for himself and his family on North Main Street, London.

Mr. Pancake was born in Stokes Township, this county, November 15, 1851, and is a son of Cephas and Nanc3' (Cooper) Pancake, who were also natives of this county, and spent their entire lives here. The father was born February 21, 1819, and died October 12, 1874; and the mother was born September 23, 1824, and died July 29, 1855. Both the Pancakes and the Coopers were early pioneer families of this State. Joseph Pancake, the paternal grandfather of our subject, who was a Virginian by birth, came here at an early day, and at first located in Ross Count^^ but not long thereafter, he removed to Madison County and cast in his lot with the frontiersmen who had preceded him, and in later years died on the farm that he had redeemed from the virgin forest. He was boin De- cember 18, 1789, and died .September 15, 1853. lie had six children: Isaac, Jesse and William, who were half Ijrothers to James, Toland and Jane (Mrs. Johnson). He was a member of the ]Methodist E[)iscopal Church, and was active in its upbuilding in this count3\

The father of our subject was reared as a farmer and stock dealer in Range Township. He became very prosperous, and was one of the most prominent farmers of that township. He bought and sold stock extensivel}", and was known far and near as an exceedingly shrewd financier. In politics, he favored the Democratic party, and had clear and sensible views on all topics of general interest. He was tlie father of six children b}' his marriage with the mother of our subject, of whom our subject is the only survivor. The others were Margaret, William, ]\Iary J., Thompson and David S. B}^ his union with MissC. ^^ Mahoyfive other children were born: Joseph, Edwin B., Emma I., Aquilla and Cephas P., of whom Emma and Aquilla are dead.

The subject of this biograph}^ was educated in the London schools. At the age of twenty years, he left home and took a trip Westward to prospect for any opening by which he might make a good start in life. He was unable to find anything suitable, and returning home, he remained there until 1875, when he was married on the 9th of December to Miss A. L., daughter of Robert and Ann (Thomas) Rea, of London. Her father is one of the wealthiest men of the count}', and is living retired in London.

After liis marriage, Mr. Pancake engaged in farming on the old Rea homestead in Oak Run Township, where he remained until 1887. But prior to that he had purchased one hundred and fifty acres of the five hundred and forty acres of said farm, and the remainder of it his father-inlaw gave to Mrs. Pancake. Besides this valuable property, iMr. Pancake has a good farm of ninety acres in the same township. He has three tenants on his farms, and from their rental derives a good income. He has always been a large cattle dealer, and has raised a great deal of stock, hiring some six hundred acres of land, besides emplo3'ing his own for that purpose. He is still interested in

When he left the farm, in 1887, ISIr. Pancake came to London and erected one of the best residences within its precincts. It is of a handsome and tasteful st3-le of architecture, is supplied with all the modern conveniences and improvements, is elegant in its api)ointments, and its attractiveness is enhanced many fold by the unostentatious and gracious hospitality offered to all who cross its threshold by the amiable hostess and the courteous, genial host. Our subject and his wife stand high in social circles, their many fine qualities of head and heart attracting to them many warm friends, and the p]piscopal Church finds in them two of its most devoted members, who contribute generously of their means to forward its every good work. INIr. Pancake is an uncompromising Democrat, and is well informed in politics, both local and national. He lias held the offices of Treasurer and Trustee of Oak Run Township, and is classed among the men who take a genuine interest in all that concerns their community, and are an honor to tlie citizenship of their native count}'.

V seph's Catholic Church at Circleville, is a gentleman of broad theological and classical education, who has won the highest esteem both of his parishioners and the entire community. The church and school under his charge occup3'a most beautiful site on the highest point of the historical mounds of archaeological times, which, if pre served, would have been of inestimable value. The Catholic Church was fortunate in securing the land with a clear title, and on the site where the old mound-builders no doubt held their religious services, a congregation now worships in an elegant edifice.

Father Meara was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, October 25, 1850. His father, Stephen Meara. was a native of County Tipperaiy, Ireland, and emigrated to America when a 3'oung man, spending a few years in Quebec, and removing tlience to Boston. At St. Mary's Church, on Bunker Hill, he was married to Miss Ellen Meagher, who, like himself, was a native of County Tipperary, and came to America with her uncle. Six children were born of the union, our subject being the eldest.

The first recollections of our subject are of the city of Columbus, whither he was brought b}' his parents when about two years old. He received the rudiments of his education at St. Patrick's School, and in 1866 entered St. Mary's Seminary at Cincinnati, where he studied for four years in the classical course, afterward spending about the same number of years in the study of theology and phllosoph}'. In Ma}', 1874, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Rosecrans.

Immediately after he was ordained. Father Meara became Rector of the Cathedral at Columbus, and his labors in its behalf were so arduous and ceaseless that his health failed, and he was compelled to spend one year in travel through the Western States. With strength renewed and health invigorated, he returned to his chosen field of work, and spent two 3'ears with the congregation at Columbus. He came from there to Circleville in April, 1882, and at once noticed the magnificent possibilities for the establishment of a school here. With him, to think was to act, and it was not long ere plans were made, funds were raised, and the handsome buildings erected. The school was opened in September, 1885, and has proved Father Meara 's foresight and wisdom, for the attendance averages two hundred pupils, and the course of study is practical and thorough.

A modern style of architecture was used in the construction of the building, wiiich contains twelve school rooms, large corridors, broad stairwa3'S, and was erected at a cost of about #20,000. It is heated with hot air, well ventilated, and lighted bj' electricity. Six Sisters of Charity are employed as teachers, and the diplomas awarded the graduates are worthy of any school in the State. In addition to these labors, Father Meara has recently had the church refrescoed and remodeled at a cost of $1,000, and it is now conceded to be one the most beautiful structures in Ohio.

Since his connection with the church at Circleville, Father Meara has introduced many new features into its various departments of work, and possesses the happy faculty of winning the friendship and co-operation of all with whom lie comes in contact. He is progressive in his ideas, forcible and vigorous in his language, liberal in his views, and has that deep sj'mpathy with humanit}^ which adds to his influence among his parishioners.

TIEODORE AV. MILLER, of London, i^ the largest dealer in diy-goods, carpets, cloaks and fanc}^ goods in this city, and he is also Postmaster at this point, receiving his appointment from President Cleveland, and still continuing to hold the office on account of his manifest fitness for the place, and of his general popularity.

Urbana, in Champaign County, is the native place of our subject, and there he was born January 24, 1844, into the household of Abrara and Harriet Minshall, natives respectively of Virgina and Ohio. When he was a small child, he was deprived of a mother's tender care by her untimely death in 1847. She left one child beside himself, his sister Ellen, now Mrs. S. R. Morris, of Fayette County. The father of our subject was a wagonmaker, and for some years carried on his trade at Midway, where his wife died. He continued to manufacture wagons for some years longer in that town, and then engaged in hotel-keeping there until 1882. He became well known as mine host, and was a favorite with the traveling public. In the year mentioned, he came to London, retiring from business, and afterward removed to Toledo, where he is living with his daughter, Mrs. Fisher, and at the age of seventy-four is serenelj' awaiting life's great end, with the calm faith of a true Christian. His life has been guided b}' high principles, and he has always espoused every good cause that would in his judgment benefit the community. Thus he is a champion of temperance reform, and belongs to the Prohibition party, in politics. Religiously', he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was a Trustee of the same. His wife also belonged to that church.

Our subject is of mixed German and English blood, his father descending from the Germans, and his mother of the Anglo-Saxon stock. lie was carefully educated in the schools of Midway, this county, and received a good home training that has had a wholesome influence on his after life. He remained with his father until he was eighteen years old, and then the brave, patriotic 30uth determined at all hazards to take part in the great war that was then waging betw-een the North and the South, and enlisted in Company K, Ninety-iifth Ohio Infantry, and during the three long and trying years that followed, he displayed steadfast coiu-age, true fortitude in the most desperate situations, and an unfaltering loyalty to his country that led him to suffer and sacrifice much for its sake, and no member of his regiment proved a more valiant and etticient soldier than he. The first battle in which he fought was at Richmond, where he was taken prisoner, but he was subsequently exchanged, and he did good service at Yicksburg, when that city was besieged, and was an active participant in numerous other engagements. His last battle was that of Brice's Cross Roads, in Mississippi, where he was again captured by the rebels, who sent him to Andersonville, and he endured all the horrors of that prison for ten months, being barely alive when he at last left it, weighing sixty pounds less than when he entered its doors, and going out therefrom in 1865 a mere wreck of his former vigorous constitution.

Returning home after his bitter experiences Of military life, as soon as he was able our subject entered a commercial college at Columbus, that he might better fit himself for a business life. After leaving college, he engaged in the grocery trade at Midway, continuing therein until 1870, when he closed out his stock at a good profit, and, coming to London, took a position as a clerk with John Kinney, with whom he remained until that gentleman's death in 1887. He acted as his book-keeper, and during tlie last three years carried on the business, as Mr. Kinne}' was out of health.

Mr. Miller bought his old employer's stock of goods after the latter 's decease, and is still carrying on the business, Avliich he is constantly enlarging, as he is a man of marked enterprise, understands fully the demands of the trade, is prompt to take advantage of the money market, and, in buying always the best at the most reasonable rates, is enabled to sell at moderate prices, and, as he is invariably courteous and honorable in his dealings, has secured a large custom. His establishment is complete in its ap{)ointments, and he employs six clerks, who are attentive to the wants of the customers, and are obliging and well trained. The postofflce is also well conducted under our subject's keen supervision, and three faithful clerks are employed to do the work. Mr. INIiller is one of the standard-bearers of the Democratic party in this county', and as a Mason and member of the Grand Army of the Republic, he is prominent in social circles. He is actively identified with whatsoever tends to elevate the moral and religions status of the community, and is one of the foremost members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is Trustee.

Mr. Miller's domestic relations are of the pleasantest, as he has found a congenial companion and devoted wife in Margaret Fisher, to whom he was married in 1868. Their marriage has been hallowed to them by the birth of two children: Ea}^ K., a student at Columbus; and Ercell. Mrs. Miller was a native of this county, and a daughter of Isaac B. and Elizabeth (Jefferson) Fisher. Her father was a large farmer and stockman. Mrs. Miller departed this life February 22, 1892.

OHN W. O'DAY. The gentleman of whom it is our pleasure and privilege to here give a short biographical sketch is a representative farmer and stock-raiser, located in Pleasant Township, Madison County. He was born on the old home farm in Pleasant Township, June 18, 1860, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth (O'Day) O'Day, also natives of this county. Our subject grew to manhood on the home farm, attending the district schools during the winter, and began life on his own responsibility when twenty years of age. Being naturally a good juflgc of stock, he was engaged by his brother in bnying and selling cattle for a number of years. He was married January 4, 1883, to Miss Harriet Elizabeth Eusick, of Range Township, Madison Count}'. She was the daughter of Elijah W. and Rachel (Reece) Busick, and was born in 1865.

He of whom we write was the fifth in order of birth of a family of six children, of whom four are still living: Elijah lives in London, Ohio, where he is engaged in the stock business; Mary married W. N. Olney, and makes her home in Indianapolis, Ind.; Harley is a soldier in the regular arm3\ The eldest son, Scott, died in infancy, as also did Celia. To Mr. and Mrs. O'Day have been born two children: Elijah, Jr., who had his birth November 20, 1883, and Edna Maria, November 14, 1887.

In his political relations, our subject is a Democrat, as was his father before him. His estate comprises two hundred and two acres, which his industry and good management have placed under a high state of cultivation. As before stated, he is engaged in stock-raising, and reaps quite a handsome return from this branch of agriculture.

'^IJAMES RADER is one of the principal farmers and stockmen of Pickaway County, and has extensive farming and stock inter- ^^^l^ ests in Pickaway Township. The large tract of land owned by him lies in the middle of the famous Pickaway Plains, one of the most historical spots in the State, and it includes the most of the original farm on which stands the noted Logan Elm, the south line of his lands extending to within three hundred yards of this ancient tree, beneath whose branches Logan, CUiief of the Mingos, made his renowned speech in 1774, at the time Lord Dunmore, then Royal Governor of Virginia, concluded the treaty of peace, whereby the great Northwest Territoi'y was thrown open to the white man. Here stood Squawtown and Indian Village, where some fighting was done in the past.

Mr. Rader is a native of Pike Count}-, this State, and was born December 8, 1839. His father was Adam Rader, a Virginian by birth and a farmer by occupation. When he was twenty-three years old, he came to Ohio to cast in his fortunes with the early settlers of I*ike County, and here entered land, which he suljsequcntly improved into a good farm. The country was sparsely settled as to its white poi)ulati<)n, l)ut Indians were numerous and there was plenty of wild game. He lived to see the county quite well developed and populous, dying in 1867, and thus passed away one of the mosi resi)ected pioneers of his community. He was active in religious work as well as in material interests, was a most worth}' meml)cr of the IMethodist E|)iscopal Church, and was of a quiet, retiring disposition, kindly, gentle and considerate in his intercourse with others, and always attended strictly to his own affairs, never meddling with anybody's else business. He started out in the woods without any means, but by his unremitting industry and excellent business talent, he actiuired a valuable property, and at the time of his death, he had six hundred acres of choice land.

Noah Rnder, the grandfather of our subject, was also a native of Virginia, and spent his last years in Pike County, this State, with his son, dying at the age of eighty-eight years. He was a strong, powerful man, with a fine physique. The Indians were troubl some while he lived in A'^irginia, threatening the destruction of his family and his property, and that was the cause of his migration to Ohio. The mother of our subject was Nancy Thorp, a native of Virginia, and a descendant of one of the old families of that State. She was a member in high standing of the IMethodist P^piscopal Church, remaining true to the faith until her death, which occurred when she was seventy-fonr years old. Of her ten children, eight are living, our subject J)eing the tliird in order of birth.

James Rader, of this biograpliical review, spent his early life on his father's farm and obtained his education in the typical log schoolhouse of pioneer times, which was furnished with slab benches, and half of one side of the building was removed to make way for the fireplace and mud and stick chimney. He remained at home with his parents until lie was twent3'-one years old, and then began life for himself b}' working out at the rate of ^13 per mouth. He prudentlj' saved his earnings and at the end of tliree j^ears entered upon his independent career as a farmer by renting land, in 1862, along the Scioto River.

In 1875, Mr. Rader came to Pickaway County and purchased his present farm on the Pickaway Plains in Pickaway Township, and has six hundred and nineteen acres of as fine farming land as can be found in Ohio, all lying in a bod}^ and well equipped with substantial improvements. From its fertile fields he reaps rich harvests of grain, and in its pastures raises line stock, buying and feedingmany cattle also. He has been remarkably successful, financially, and is one of the moneyed men of the township and of the county, to whose wealth he has materially added. He is a whole-souled, large iiearted man, strong of purpose, prompt in action, and endowed with great capability-. He is one of the foremost Democrats of this section, has been a delegate to county conventions, and stands high in the opinion of his fellow-townsmen, irrespective of party.

Mr. Rader was married, in 1862, to Miss Mary A. Shock, a native of Pike County and a daughter of Andrew and Amanda (Shoemaker) Shock, who were of Virginian birth and were early settlers of Pike County, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Rader lived very liappily together until her death, June 12, 18'Jl. She was a woman of rare merit, with a warm and generous heart, and was helpful and friendly to all who came under her influence, looking well to the comfort of her household. Life, with its joys and sorrows, for her is over:

To our subject and his wife were born these twelve children: Anna, George B., Nettie, Oscar (deceased), Dennis, Burr, Florence, Don, Scott, Cora, Smile}^, and James C. Anna married Lewis

^ OHN W. DECKER has been a resident of Pickaway County all his life, and his example of industry and earnest and sincere endeavor to succeed in life is well worthy of imitation. He is now successfully following an occupation that has for ages furnished sustenance to the ready worker, and that he is progressive and advanced in his ideas is manifested in everything about his place.

He was born in INIadison Township, PickaAvay County, March 20, 1849, and his father, Yause Decker, was also a native of this count}-, born m a log cabin October 12, 1814, and was one of the pioneer settlers. The latter became familiar with hard labor at an early age, for he assisted his father in clearing wild land in this county, and here he received a limited education in the pioneer schools, which were taught in log cabins with slab seats, huge fireplaces, etc. After reaching man's estate, he married Miss Jemima Williams, and the union was blessed by the birth of three children one beside our subject now living, Kate H. Mr. Decker died in 1891, following to the grave his estimable wife, who had passed away a few years before. He was a Democrat in i)olitics and was public-spirited and enterprising. He left a valuable estate of seven hundred and fifteen acres of land, all well improved. He was active in all educational matters and served as School Director for many years. He was a good citizen, an excellent neighbor and a kind and loving husband.

Our subject's paternal grandfather, Luke Decker, was a native of Virginia and when a young came to Pickaway County, which was then wild and unsettled. Indians were numerous and wild animals filled the woods. After getting a start in life, he returned to his native State, married, and, with his bride, returned to the Buckeye State. They settled in a little rude log cabin in Madison Township, this county, and entered upon the serious business of trying to make a living. Mr. Decker was one of the first to settle in this section and was a pioneer in every sense of that term.

John W. Decker was reared to manhood in his native county, and, like his father and grandfather before him, has been prominently identified with the interests of this county. In addition to a good practical education obtained in the district sehools of Madison Township, for two years he attended the well-known Baptist Institution at Grandville, Ohio. He has improved all his advantages and is a man well posted on all subjects of interest. On the 1st of October, 1873, he was married to Miss Kate H. Millar, daughter of Michael and Margaret Millar, early settlers of Madison Township, Pickaway County, Ohio. Both parents are now deceased. Mrs. Decker has one brother and three sisters in Madison Township, viz: IMelissa, wife of Nathan Perrell; C4eorge R.; Alice, wife of Robert Perrell, and Mattie.

The original of this notice is the owner of three hundred and forty-five acres of land and is one of the foremost farmers in his section. In politics, he is a Democrat and is a stanch advocate of the principles of that party. In all worth}' enterprises, he takes a decided interest and is well known throughout the section as a public-spirited and charitable citizen. He is a member of the Township Board and has held other positions of trust in Madison Township. His marriage was blessed by the birth of four children: Clifford H., Annie M., Georgie and Millar M., all bright and capable.

fOASH CROMLEY, a native of Pickaway County, April 17, 1830, the date of his birth, is of the old pioneer stock, and was ^_^ born and reared on the farm in Walnut Township which is still his home, said farm being one of the earliest to be reclaimed from the primeval wilds of this region. Our subject is a son of Jonas and Amelia (Hoffines) Cromley, natives I'espectively of Pennsylvania and Maryland. His ancestors on both sides of the house were Germans, and his grandfather Ilofflnes was a soldier in the War of 1812, drawing a pension in after years for his services therein. His paternal grandfather, Paul Cromle}', emigrated from Penns3dvania with his family to Ohio in 1815, and settled on the farm in Pickaway County now owned by our subject, his son Jonas being a boy at that time, he having been born in 1803. The family made their home in a log cabin in the woods, and the elder Mi\ Cromley labored hard to clear and develop this farm, upon which he died at a rij)e age, leaving behind him a goodly record as a pioneer who had struggled bravely against the adverse forces of nature, and was helpful in the ui)building of the county.

Jonas Cromley grew to man's estate on the old homestead amid scenes of pioneer life and received a fair education in the primitive schools of the day. He succeeded to his father's farm, and did much pioneer labor in its improvement. He was successful financially, accumulating a comfortable property, and he was a conspicuous figure in public, political, social and religious life of the community. For jears, he served as Trustee and Treasurer of the township, and he was always in favor of whatever would advance the township or county. He was a Democrat, ever true to his political convictions, and in his religious affiliations he was a Lutheran. He and his good wife lived hai)pily together many years, and were blessed with four children, namely: George, a resident of Columbus; Joash; Ann IM. and David.

He of whom this biography is priiicii)ally written was reared on the old farm that had been his birthplace and has always been his home. His education was conducted in a log cabin, that was rudely furnished with slab benches, and the only desks were boards placed on wooden pins against the walls of the room, being intended only for the scholars to write upon. He early became familiar with the details of farming, and since the old homestead came into his possession he has kept it up to a high standard of cultivation and improvement. He has here a quarter of a section of land that is naturally rich and productive, and from the harvests that he reaps from its well-tilled fields and the , stock that he raises in its excellent pastnres, he derives a good annual income. Mr. Cromley is one of the Directors of the Reber Hill Cemetery, which is located in Walnut Township, and of which he was one of the incorporators. He has the welfare of his native county at heart, and in his successful career as a farmer has done much to promote its material progress. In politics, he stands with the Democrats. He has the confidence of the business community and is well known in his neighborhood as an earnest, candid, openhearted man.

Our subject took unto himself a wife December 18, 1851), in the person of Miss Amanda Ashbrook, and to them have been Ijorn two sons, Charles and Joseph. Mrs. Cromle}- is also a native of Pickaway Count}^ born in 1835 in the pioneer home of Absalom and Phoebe (Dunnuck) Ashbrook, who were early settlers of Walnut Township.

Scott, M. A., who was a native of Depple Parish, Elgin, Scotland. His father, Rev. John Scott, M. A., was also a native of Scotland and in that country passed all his life. This family was one of the most prominent ones -of vSeotland and its members were men of education and learning. The coat of arms used in the family and by our subject's greatgrnndfatlier, Hon. (Tustavus Scott, was a dove with an olive branch in its beak with the motto: "Caudia Magna Nueio." Rev. James Scott, M. A., left his native land and settled in Virginia before 1739, and his brother, Rev. Alexander Scott, M. A., came to the Old Dominion at the same time. The former was rector of Depple, A^a., until he went to Prince William County, Va., and there he became Rector also. He was a college-bred man, and owned the large and beautiful estate of "Westwood."

Hon. Gustavus Scott was born on the beautiful estate of Westwood, Prince William County, Va., in 1753, and studied law at Aberdeen, Scotland, after which he graduated in law at Midde College,

London. During the Revolutionary War, he removed to Dorchester County, Va., and served as Representative of the State. Later, he removed to Washington City and was one of the Commissioners for the erection of public buildings in that city. He was an intimate friend of Gen. George Washington, and advanced from his own pocket considerable sums of money for the troops during the Revolutionary War, and he, with two other men, went seciu'ity for the United States, to the amount of $120,000. He was a true patriot and won a national reputation. His son, John C. Scott, was a native A^irginian, born in 1782, and was a large landowner and planter there. In 1820, he came to Ohio, located in Ross County, near Chillicothe, and became the owner of immense tracts of land. He died at the age of fifty-eight years. His son, Charles L. Scott, the father of our subject, was also a native of the Old Dominion, born on the 20th of September, 1812. He was a law graduate, practiced his profession at Chillicothe, Ohio, and was also the owner of considerable land near Yellow Bud. In 1848, he removed to Philadelphia and engaged in the wholesale merchandising business. He died there on the 24tli of January, 1861. In politics, he was a Whig, and in religion an Episcopalian. He married Miss P^lizabeth E. Slesman, a native of Philadelphia, born on the 7th of Januaiy, 1815, and the daughter of George and Elizabeth Slesman, both natives of Philadelphia, Avhere the father was engaged in wholesale merchandising. To Mr. and Mrs. Scott were born nine children, all of whom grew to mature years and seven of whom are now living. With the exception of our subject, all are residents of the "City of Brotherly Love." Two brothers, John C. and Arthur AV., were in the Civil AVar, the former enlisting In a Pennsylvania regiment in 1864. The latter was also in a Pennsylvania regiment.

Edward AV. Scott, the seventh child in order of birth of the aboved-mentioned family, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., on the 25th of July, 1849, and was educated in the private and select schools of that city. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-one years of age and then began clerking. The fertile soil of Ohio tempted him here in 1872, and he first located in Circleville,

Poetrait And Biographical Record

& Co. lie followed this business in this cUy for five years, after whicli the firm dissolved partnership and commenced again under the firm title of Heffner, Scott <t Co., with headquarters in Columbus. This firm lasted for three 3'ears, after which the firm of Seeds & Scott was formed in the same place. Tliis firm owns the elevator on Fourth and Norton Streets, on the Pan Handle road, and is engaged in bujing and shipping grain to the East.

In 1889, INIr. Scott removed back to Circlevillc on account of poor health and confined his attention principally to agricultural pursuits. He owns a fine farm of three hundred and eighty-five acres in Jackson and Muhlenburg Townships, on Darby Creek, all well improved with good buildings, fences, etc., and is engaged in raising full-blooded Percheron draft colts.

Mr. Scott was married on the 9th of September, 1875, to Miss Cynthia Renick, daughter of John Renick, a native of Virginia, who left a large estate of two thousand acres at his death. One child blessed the union of ]Mr. and INIrs. .Scott: Minnie Renick, whose birth occurred on the 17th of May, 1878. Mr. and J\Irs. Scott are members of the Presbyterian Church and he is Trustee and Treasurer in the same. In politics, he is a through and through Republican.

<$, n»/I LLI AM E. IRELAND, M.D. The medi- \/\l/l cal profession has among its members many VtW noble men, whose lives are filled with acts of goodness and animated with a desire to relieve the sufferings of mankind. Among those who occupy an honored place in the esteem of the citizens of Fayette Countj^ is the subject of this sketch, senior member of the firm of Ireland & Ireland, who has associated with him his older brother, S. A., in the practice of medicine and surgery at Washington C. H.

Dr. Ireland was born in Bloomington, 111., April 18, 1852, at the time when that now prosperous and enterprising city was only a small village, surrounded by evidences of pioneer life and containing few prophetic indications of its present commercial importance. His parents, George and Sarah (Hopkins) Ireland, were natives of Ross Count}', Ohio, and were i)ioneer members of the farming community of McLean County, 1 11. When our subject was only two and one-half years old, he was brought by his parents to Ohio, and remained in the southeastern part of Fayette County until 1865, when tlie family removed to Ross County.

In the schools of Faj'^ette and Ross Counties, our subject acquired the fundamental principles of knowledge, and afterward was a student in the South Salem Academy, which was then the most important and flourishing educational centre in that part of the State. His schooling completed, he followed the profession of a teacher for seven years, and during the same time carried on medical studies under the preceptorship of Dr. A. Ogan, of Madison Count}'. He took a course of lectures at Starling Medical College of Columbus and was a graduate in the Class of '82.

At once after completing his medical studies. Dr. Ireland located at Leesburgh, Highland Countj^, where he remained for five years, his attention being closely devoted to the ever-increasing demands of his profession. In 1887, he came to Washington C. H., having decided that it would be best to seek a larger field for practice and one which demanded less country riding. Almost from the start, his practice was good and has constantly increased until now it requires his unceasing attention, to the exclusion of all jniblic affairs or social recreations. In October, 1889, he formed a partnership with his brother S. A., who had previousl}' been engaged in practice at Leesburgh.

Tiie Doctor keeps abreast of the latest investigations in the medical world, and is well known to the fraternity, being a member of the State Medical Society, and both the Highland and Fayette County Medical Societies. He is identified with Faj'ette Lodge, Fayette Chapter and Commandery, F. & A. M. His attractive residence on East Court Street is presided over by his hospitable and cultured wife, whose name in maidenhood was Florence I. Carr, and who became his wife March 8,

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1882. Theii' home is brightened by the presence of three children : Augusta Eugenia, Horace Carr and Nellie Gwenn, while one child has been taken from tliem by death. In his religious belief, the Doctor is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and belongs to its Board of Directors, while in charitable and pliilanthropic enterprises his sympathy and active co-operation are alwaj^s extended.

|»^ AMUEL HORNBECK, who follows general farming and stock-raising, was born on the farm which is still his home m Paint Tovvnship, Fa3'ette County, Jan uar}^ 28, 1839. His father, Isaac Hornbeck, was born in South Solon, Ohio, in October, 1813, but was reared in Madison County, where lie resided until the last three years of his life, which were spent in Ross Count3^ His death there occurred January 27, 1865. He married Anna Peck, wlio was born Ma}' 15, 1818, in Pickawa}' County, Ohio, and unto tliem were born seven children: Miles who was born in 1837, and died at the age of twentj^-seven years; Samuel of this sketcli; Ilagar E., who is living in Pleasant Township; Henry, who died at the age of five years; Mary, who is living in Pleasant Township; John, of Madison Mills, Fayette County, who with his wife and four children resides on a farm of one hundred and forty-five acres; and Geoige, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work.

The father of this family was a self-made man. He lived on the farm which is now the home of our subject until 1863, when he removed to Ross County. In 1854, he purchased two hundred and twent3'-two acres of land and su))sequentl3' bought one hundred and fifty acres in Madison Township, Fayette County, where John Hornbeck now resides. In politics, he was a Democrat and a highly respected citizen.

Mr. Hornbeck of this sketch remained at home until several years after Iiis father's death. He acquired a common-school education, and in 1875 took possession of his present home, having purchased two hundred and seventy acres of fine farming land. He also operates a one hundred and eighty-five acre tract which belongs to his mother. He is an enterprising and successful farmer and a glance at his place indicates the thrift and industry of the owner.

Mr. Hornbeck was married September 16, 1879, to Alice Porter, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, November 29, 1849, and is a daughter of Joshua and Rachel (Henry) Porter. She is the fourth in a family of six children, all of whom are still living: Isabel is the wife of Alex Taylor, of RosS County, and has one child; John H. is married and resides in Ross County; Mar}- J. m.akes her home in the same count}'; William resides with his wife and one child in Ross County; and Rosa E. is also there living. The father of this family, who was born in 1802, died in June, 1880, at the age of seventy-eight. His wife was born in Brooke County, Va., in February, 1809, and died August 5, 1887. They were both buried in Concord Cemetery.

Three children grace the union of Mr. and Mrs. Hornbeck: Nellie, born November 28, 1880; OUie, December 28, 1881; and Herbert, February 8, 1890. Our subject and his wife rank high in social circles and are widely known throughout this community. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Democratic party and served as Land Appraiser in 1890.

AMUEL FRALICK. Among the wellknown and influential farmers of Stokes Township, Madison County, is Mr. Fralick? who is a successful farmer and stock-raiser, using the best methods in fertilizing the soil and improving the land. He has been successful in his chosen calling aiul has accumulated a fine property, enjoying the esteem and respect of all who know him. He was born in I^ancaster County, Pa., June 2, 1837, and is the son of Joseph and Susannah (Easton) Fralick, also natives of the Keystone State.

years. He there grew to manhood on the farm and received a fair education in the primitive schools of the district. When sixteen 3'ears of age he began life on his own account, liiiing out to different parties to drive cattle over the mountains to the Eastern markets. In 1855 and 1856, he spent a twelvemonth in Logan County, 111., working on a farm, at the end of which time he returned to Madison County, this State, and was employed by the month for another year; during that time he saved considerable money, which, together with the snug little sum which he had accumulated in handling stock, enabled him to purchase one hundred and ten acres of land which is near his present abiding-place. His estate now includes three hundred and seventy acres of land, and in addition to raising cereals he feeds and ships hogs in great numbers. He also breeds a good grade of horses and sheep, and ranks among the progressive and enterprising stock-raisers of Madison County. Mi'. Fralick has recently disposed of his interest in the grain elevator at South Solon, which he owned in j'^'irtnership with C. T. Bowers. He cast his first Presidential vote for a Democratic candidate in 1864, but since that time has been identified with the Republican part3\ He has served in many positions of trust in this community, being Township Trustee for several years, a School Director and was elected County Commissioner in the fall of 1884, serving one term and three 3^ears, during which time he was kept very busy, as many of the bridges of his district had been washed away by the heavy rains.

Mr. Fralick is the 3^ounger in a family of two children, his sister Mary, who was born in 1835, being Mrs. II. W. Bowers. His father was born January 13, 1811, and died May 20, 1874, while his mother, who was born Janiiary 3, 1816, departed this life September 6, 1887. The lady to whom our subject was married Decemlier 23, 1866, was Miss Maiy E. Crow, a native of .Jefferson Township, Fayette County. She was born August 12, 1849, and was a daughter of Ezekiel H. and Rosanna (Creamer) Crow. She was given a good education and when seventeen years of age began teaching school and after being thus engaged for a time, took a course of studj' at the schools of

Lebanon. Her father was married three times, she being the eldest but one in a family of four children born of his second union. Her brother, Thomas, resides in Fayette County; Susan, who married Melvin L. Anderson, makes her home in Guthrie County, Iowa, and Luc}', who married Lemuel W. Vance, departed this life in August, 1890.

To Mr. and Mrs. P^ralick have been born two children, viz: Mary B., who was l)orn March 3, 1889, and Susan G., April 24, 1891. Mrs. Fralick's mother died when she was about four years of age, and when fourteen years old her father was killed in a collision on a railroad l)etween Covington and Lexington, Ky. It was during the period of the Civil War when he was leturning from a A'isit to his son wlio was a Union soklier.

JEROME SINHTII, proprietor of the Pickaway ^Machine AVorks, was i)orn in Walnut Township, this county, on the 23d of December, ^.^^^ 1853, and is a sou of Heniy Smith, who was originally from Fairfield Count}', this State. The grandfather, John Smith, was born in Pennsylvania, but at an Qavly date moved to Ohio and settled in Amanda Townsiiip, Fairfield County, where he improved a large farm. He was twice married, and was a man well respected by all acquainted with him. He was of German descent. The father of our subject is a blacksmith by trade, and after locating on a farm in Walnut Township, he put up a shop and machine works which he operates at the present time, and although now sixty-five years of age, he is a fine machinist. His wife, the mother of our subject, Rebecca (Crites) Smith, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Samuel Crites, who was a native of Pennsylvania. He was a farmer by occupation and followed that business all his life. The mother of our subject is deceased.

Of the ten children born to his parents, Jerome is sixth in order of birth. He received a common education in the district schools and from the time he was a small boy he was in the blacksmith shop and thus picked up the trade. When fourteen 3'ears of age, he made a hand at the anvil, but previous to that, wlien onl^' ten 3'ears of age, he shod horses. At the age of twenty-one, or in 1877, he went to Lancaster and was emplo3'ed in a carriage shop there for three 3'ears. Returning to Walnut Township, he was with his fatlier for over five years and was his partner for a year. Seeing a better opportunity to succeed in his trade, he came to Circleville and started a shop near the Cleveland, Marietta it Oliio depot. In 1890, he bought tliis business from Ed Smith, the old Tyler Mill, and since then has conducted it alone. He has added to it in many ways, and is one of the most successful and tliorough-going business men of the place. He has a large brick planing mill and machine shop, a large brick storeroom operated by a sixty-horse power engine, and manufactures doors, sashes, frames, mouldings, etc., and also runs the general machine works, called the Pickaway Machine Works, which he purchased in 1890 and combined with the otlier.

Our subject was an organizer of the Circleville Lumber Company, and was President until December 1, 1891, when he sold out his interest and turned his attention exclusively to the macliine works. He is doing a large amount of business, usually employs from twelv^e to fifteen men, and system and order prevail throughout. He has been engaged in otlier enterprises that brought him in good returns, and is the owner of four lots with buildings on East Main Street, cornor of Mingo. He is full of push and energy and stands in the front rank of that worth and energy wliicli have inade Circleville so great a manufacturing centre. INIr. Smith was first married in Walnut Township, Pickaway County, Ohio, to Miss Ida J. Noggle, a native of Fairfield Countj^, Ohio. She passed awa}' two 3"ears later. His second marriage occurred in Lancaster, to Miss Caroline Betz, a native of Lancaster, Fairfield County ,Ohio, and the daughter of Fred Betz, a successful wagon manufacturer there for many years but now deceased. Five children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and are named as follows: Cora E., Harrj' A., Frank P., Minnie, Mildred and Frederick. Mr. Smith was School Director in Walnut Township, and has held other local positions. He is a selfmade man in every respect and thoroughly understands his business. Socially, he is a Knight Templar. In politics, he is a strong advocate of the principles of the Republican party and his father was a strong Union man. He has been a delegate to county and State conventions and is one of the representative men of the county.

ANH^:L W. HOWARD, who is engaged in the undertaking and furniture business at West Jefferson, has been very successful in the affairs of life and is in good circumstances. His means have not been accumulated without hard work and the exercise of prudence and forethought, and those who know him feel that he has won no more than he deserves. His place of business is well stocked with a full assortment of goods to be found in that line of trade, in the disposal of which he is thoroughly honest and upright.

Horton Howard, tlie father of our subject, was born in Belmont Count}', this State, June 22, 1817, and when nineteen years of age removed to Columbus, wliere he attended school and later assisted his fatlier, who w\as a druggist, in his store. On the death of the latter, he assumed the business, which he operated veiy successfully for several years. Later, he purchased a farm near Alton, Franklin County, and there made his liome until his decease, January 20, 1878. The fatlier of our subject was married in Columbus, February 10, 1841, to Miss Mary A. Marple, who was born near Philadelphia, Pa., December 6, 1823.

The eleven children included in the parental family bore the respective names of Albert, Joseph B., Isaac N., Charles C, Frank W., Mary E., Theo, Daniel W., Horton J., Eliza J. and Edwin. The mother of these children removed from the farm to West Jefferson in October, 1890. Daniel AV. of this sketch was born near Alton, Franklin County, this State, July 22, 1859. He was reared on his father's farm, received a common-school education and continued to remain at home until August, 1890, when he came to West Jefferson and established himself in tlie undertaking and furniture business, in company with his brother Theo, the firm being known as Howard Bros.