Somerset Township (part 6 of 15)

Our subject has one son, Robert C., who was educated at Bellaire and also spent two years at Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio. He is now 21 years of age and is employed by the Bellaire Bottle Company. Mr. Gow is identified with many business enterprises of Bellaire, among which are the following: He is a director of the First National Bank of Bellaire, of the Enterprise Enamel Company, and of the Bellaire Bottle Works. He is a Presbyterian in religious faith, having been reared as such.

Socially Mr. Gow affiliates with the Masonic fraternity, having passed through all the chairs of the blue 'lodge and chapter of Bellaire, and of Hope Commandery, Els at St. Clairsville.

WILLIAM SIDDALL, the well-known master mechanic at the Bellaire Works of the National Steel Company, came to this city in February, 1899, from Duquesne, Pennsylvania, to accept this responsible position, and has charge of all the mechanical part of this large plant. '

- By birth Mr. Siddall is an Englishman, born in 1867 in Birmingham, the great industrial center, where pis: father was a skilled machinist and where he served the rigorous apprenticeship demanded in-his native country. Seeing wider opportunities in America for skilled labor, Mr. Siddall at the age of 21 cated first at Cleveland. There and in other localities Mr. Siddall has continued in his line of work. For a time he was located at Columbus, Ohio, and there entered the State University, where he took a special course in mechanical engineering. After completing the same he accepted the position of chief engineer of the Duquesne Mills, from which he was promoted to that of assistant master mechanic, which he resigned in order to accept the still more desirable one which he so ably fills at the present time.

In 1899 Mr. Siddall was united in marriage with a daughter of the well-known contractor, J. W. Jones, of Bellaire, and they have one daughter, Ella. His fine home was completed in the spring of 1902 and is located at No. 4145 Harrison street, and is a model of convenience and the first of its style of architecture in the city.

Politically, Mr. Siddall is identified with the Republican party, while fraternally be belongs to a number of organizations, notably the Knights of Pythias of Cleveland, and since 1891 Newburg Masonic Lodge of Cleveland, Baker Chapter of Cleveland, and Scioto Consistory of Columbus. Mrs. Sidaall is a member of the Methodist Church, and is a lady of social culture. Mr. Siddall stands high in his profession and commands both the esteem and confidence of his employers as well as of the employees.

WILLIAM A. WOODS, a prominent farmer and dairyman of- Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, is not only one of its most substantial citizens, but also one of its most reliable and respected men. He is a native of Pease township, and was born in 1861, a son of John Woods, of whom extended mention is made in the sketch of James Woods.

Mr. Woods grew to manhood, attending the district schools and' assisting in the farm work and also helping in busy times in the neighborhood. One year after marriage he worked for his father and then operated one of the latter's farms, according to arrangement, working on shares. Mr. Woods prospered in this way during 13 years and then . bought his present fine farm which comprises 130 acres, which is reputed to be the best producing farm of the township. It was formerly known as the Cochran farm. Mr. Woods has placed very fine improvements here and has erected a handsome residence of ten rooms and a substantial and commodious barn. For the past three years he has added dairying to his other interests, his place being known as the Upland Dairy, and its products are sold in Bridgeport and Martin's Ferry. Mr. Woods is a practical farmer and believes in handling only good stock, keeping Jersey, Durham and Holstein cattle. His large home farm is devoted to general farming and dairying interests, and he owns another farm, con-

John M. Henderson

The marriage of Mr. Woods was to Lou Devault, a daughter of William Devault, an early settler of the county, and they have had ten children born to them - -Harry and John, who died young; Myrtle, Robert Lee, Jesse, Blanche, Addie, Grace, Ellis and Erma. In politics Mr. Woods has been a life-long Democrat. His religious views are liberal, but he is ever ready to give his support to all educational and moral enterprises.

JOHN M. HENDERSON, a hardware " merchant of Martin's Ferry, and one of the most industrious business men of the city, owns the finest hardware store in the county, and has numerous other business enterprises that occupy all his attention, among them his interest in the coal lands so abundant throughout the States of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Mr. Henderson is a son of Hugh and Margaret (Cowen) Henderson, natives of the Keystone State, and is himself a native of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, where he was born February 13, 1863. Hugh Henderson was a stationary engineer by vocation, and followed that occupation throughout most of his lifetime. Previous to taking this up, however, he was.a miller and owned a mill in Pennsylvania for many years until after the Civil War, when in 1869 he removed to Ohio and settled on a farm three miles from Martin's Ferry. This farm has recently been sold to the Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad Company, who will open up the coal fields it contains. Hugh Henderson is now a retired business man and resides at the old Henderson homestead in Martin's Ferry, situated at the head ot Walnut street. He has reached the advanced age of 76 vears. For three score years he has been has held all the offices accorded to laymen, and has been superintendent of the Sunday-school, etc. 6, 1898, having been a lifelong member of the same Methodist Episcopal Church. She was one of the most devoted of church workers, always painstaking and thorough in all she did, and her deeds and efforts to help others will furnish pleasant, endearing memories to the many, who remember her still, for long years to come. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were the parents of six children, our subject being the fifth child. The others are as follows: Jennie (Mrs. William P. Green), who resides in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Homer W., who was first a comemrcial traveler for the Stand-- ard Oil Company until 1887, when he started the hotel business in Pittsburg, which he still carries on with good sucess; J. B., who is engaged in the coke and coal business at Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania, having enjoyed a very successful career; Emma, who is a resident of the home place with her father, is a very active church worker and possesses many of the qualities and noble traits of character which characterized the efficient services of her mother; and Hugh K., who lives in Pittsburg, where for 14 years he was in the coal business with Joseph Walton, and where he still is identified with the Pittsburg coal combine.

John M. Henderson, our subject, received training in the way of education in the commercial department of Frasher's College at Wheeling, West Virginia. He served an apprenticeship at the Martin's Ferry Stove Works, and was later a member of the Joseph Bell Stove Company, of Wheeling. He remained at that place until the foundry was moved to Muncie, Indiana, in 1890 and then he found employment in Martin's Ferry, in the establishment of the hardware business ' which he still conducts. His rooms are large and well supplied with a full line of jobbers' and builders' supplies, shelf hardware, brick, tile, etc.. in fact everything that should be handled by a hardware merchant. The large patronage which he has and the satisfactory manner in which he conducts the business speak for his knowledge of the principles that are best emploved, and for his honesty and accommodation as well. The building which he occupies could not have a better location, field, Ohio, the only child of William and Mary A. Cope, who are members of the Society of Friends, residing at Smithfield. To the union of our subject and his wife have been born four children, but one of whom is now living. The record follows: William H. and Lewis, who died in infancy; Joseph Charles, whose death took place in 1900, at the age of four years; and Lewis B., now three years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson are devoted to the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which the former has been trustee for over 20 years.

The business life of Mr. Henderson has many different enterprises to claim his attention, among which are the following. He is now the president of the First National Bank at Dillonvale, Ohio, which was established in February, 1901. He is also connected with other banking houses all along the Ohio Valley. He has coal stock, and an interest in the mines throughout the surrounding country; in the last three years he has disposed of 80,000 acres of coal land in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In Belmont County he has bought in fee over 5,000 acres of coal lands and disposed of over 18,000 acres.

In politics Mr. Henderson is a member of the Republican party, and was elected in 1890 to thé City Council of Martin's Ferry, serving as a member two terms and as president of the same for two terms. He is-always active in and as a business man is classed among

"the leaders in the Upper Ohio Valley. No matter how great the rush in business life, he has time for church, town or county whenever they desire his service or help.

WILLIAM WESLEY WOODS, who has engaged successfully in various lines of business, is at the present time engaged in bottling and marketing the famous Woods Lithia Water. He was born, reared and has

James Woods was born December 18, 1818, and died October 25, 1898. He was a son of William and Elizabeth (Harness) Woods. William Woods, grandíather of our subject, was the first white child born back" of Pittsburg, on what is called Woods' Run, and died in the sixty-eighth year of his age in I847. He was of Scotch-Irish parentage, and for some years of his life engaged in the butchering business. He and his bride, who was the daughter of a wealthy Virginia planter, ran away to be married. She died in 1889 at the age of ninety-three years while living at the home of her son, John. Both

Ohio. They had eight children, three of whom, two sons named William and a daughter, died in childhood. Those who grew to maturity were: John, a record of whose life appears in the sketch of James Woods; James; George, who was born in 1820 and died in 1900; Robert, who resides in Pease township, and in September, 1902, celebrated his seventy-fifth birthday, and Elizabeth, widow of Daniel Gill, who resides at Gillespie, Ohio.

James Woods was united in marriage with Martha Coss, who was born in May, 1816, and died: March :23, 31898. She was a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (McConnell) Coss, her mother being a sister of Francis McConnell, a prominent man of this section. Daniel Coss served in the War of 1812 and the war with Mexico, and. was cook for the famous General Harrison. He conducted a store at Bridgeport and during the prevalence of cholera ministered to and helped bury many of the victims. During that time he remained away from his family so as not to expose them, and neither he nor they contracted the dread disease. He was one of the founders of Methodism in Belmont County. In 1866 he and seven brothers held a reunion, the youngest being seventy-three years old and the others past and the one in possession of our subject is very highly prized by him. Of these brothers, Jacob, lived to reach the age of 103 years, dying at Chillicothe; and Adam for some years conducted a livery at Martin's Ferry.

James and Martha (Coss) Woods reared seven children, as follows: John, who was born at Mt. Pleasant and died at the age of two years; Elizabeth, wife of James Mc- Bride of Piper City, Illinois; Eleanor, of Martin's Ferry, widow of George Hobensack; Eliza Bell, who died in July, 1888, was the wife of Richard Veasy of Martin's Ferry; James Ross, who resides at Bridgeport, married Mary McKeever; George, who died

William Wesley Woods has engaged in many lines of business, and although he has owned the home farm the past few years, has never engaged in farming. He promoted a most successful oil company, realizing a handsome amount in dividends, then purchased the home farm of 113 acres, on which he has lived since 1897. The old home was the voting precinct during the time of Andrew Jackson, and some of the ballots have since been found. Mr. Woods has erected a comfortable home. He has been engaged for some five years in bottling and shipping the famous Woods' Lithia Water, obtained from an unfailing spring on the farm. It is particularly a cure for kidney troubles, and the number of cures effected have been numerous. Of 100 cases of Bright's disease where the water was freely used by the patients, but one was lost. The water is placed in one-gallon bottles manufactured at Bellaire, and from 100 to 500 per day are shipped to different parts of the country, some going as far as Minnesota and Oklahoma. Mr. Woods devotes his entire attention to this business, leasing his farm to others.

James and Rebecca (Heller) Stewart. She came with her parents when a child to Martin's Ferry, where her father conducted a feed store until his death. Her mother still resides there. She is one of eight children, as follows: George, an attorney of Detroit, who held a responsible government position under President Cleveland; Kate, wife of Samuel Heaton, a blacksmith of Martin's Ferry; John, of Cameron, West Virginia; Thomas S., a carpenter of Pittsburg; Frank, of Pittsburg; Margaret Isola; Ella, wife of R. H. McKee, teller of the Bank of the Ohio Valley at Wheeling, and Carrie, who is single and at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Woods have six children, as tollows: James Russell, born December 6, 1881; Martha Jane, born August 11, 1885; Katie Belle, born April 23, 1888; Margaret Isola, born March 21, 1891; William McKinley, born September 23, 1893, and Paul Edwin. born November 20, 1899. Politically, Mr. Woods is a Republican. He is a member of the A. O. U. W. of Bridgeport. Reigiously he is a member of the M. E. Church, attending Lancaster Chapel, which is located on the fafm, the site of which was donated by James Woods.

GEORGE KERN, who has been secretary of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company of Bellaire, Ohio, for the past three years, was born in the Rhine section of Germany, in 1837.

America, intent upon making a career for himself. A short time was spent in Baltimore, Maryland, and then the young man made his way to Wheeling, (West) Virginia, and two years later located in Benwood, where he followed the trade of baker until he came to Bellaire, in 1856, engaging in the same business until 1885.

erine Roder, who was born in Hesse, Germany. and a family of 12 children was born to them, | eight of these survive and all live in Bellaire, Ww ith the exception of one who resides at Richmond, Virginia. The handsome family residence is located on Belmont street in South Bellaire, where the family is much esteemed -and has a wide circle of friends. In politics Mr. Kern is a Democrat and has voted that ticket since 1859. For 20 years he served his township as trustee and has been a member of the City Council of Bellaire for 10 years. Mr. Kern is a man of social instincts and belongs to many fraternal orders, including the Odd Fellows, For many years he has been a leading member of the German Reformed Church.

the Belmont Savings & Loan Company, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1867, a son of James P. and Isabel (Nelson) Hopkins, the former of whom died in 1881. The -family moved to Belmont County and to Bellaire in 1882. His mother was born 70 years ago in Belmont County and our subject has five brothers and two'sisters, namely: Nettie; N. S., a farmer and also a stock dealer; Rev. J. A., pastor of a Christian Church in Maryland; R. L., a farmer of Belmont County ; Mrs. Mary Giffin, living near Bellaire; George E., in the insurance business at Bellaire; and Bert W., now clerk of Pultney township. _

Mr. Hopkins took a course at Wheeling Business College after attending the Bellaire High School, and since 1887 has followed bookkeeping, being for a time with the United States Glass Company .at Pittsburg. Since June, 1898, he has been connected with his present company and he is also secretary of the Bellaire Water Works, the business of the two concerns being conducted in the same office. Mr. Hopkins was married to Edna C. Blackburn, a daughter of M.L. Blackburn, and has one son, Francis Perry. His pleasant home is situated at Rose Hill, and both he and wife belong to the Christian Church. His fraternal connection 1s with Black Prince Lodge, Knights of Pythias.

F. Anderson, and these formed the board of directors. The present officers are: J. F. Anderson, president; John H. McGraw, vice-president; George Kern, secretary; James T. Kelley, treasurer; and John H. Hopkins, as-

E. G. KRAUTER, a well-known farmer of Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio; was born in Southern Germany in 1856, and resided there until he reached the age of eighteen years. He then came on a visit to his uncle, William Burkle, who at that time was a butcher of Bridgeport, Ohio. Mr. Krauter engaged in the grocery business successfully at Martin's Ferry for a period of eight years, then sold out to Louis Scheehle. - He has since given his attention to farming. "Mr. Krauter is residing on the old Van Pelt farm, which he purchased in 1887 from Hiram McCombs, the grantee of Margaret Blocher, who had purchased the property at the division of the Van Relt estate. Jacob Van Pelt had located on the place as early as i825, and the family owned a large tract of land in Pease township.. He built the brick . part of the house now occupied by our subject in 1850, to which the latter added and ' remodeled, making a very attractive home. The Van Pelts, who were very prominent in this county, have all passed away. Oliver Van Pelt, the last of the name in this county, was born in 1831 and died August 15, 1902, having always lived in Pease township. Of Krauter has 66 acres, and during the past fourteen years has been engaged in the dairy business, wholesaling to a milkman at Martin's Ferry. His farm is well stocked and he makes a specialty of Jersey and Holstein cattle. He also pur- chased the James Wiley home of 150 acres in 1897. The Wiley farm he leases on shares. He grows fruit extensively and devotes the upper part of his farm to raising grain and stock.

Mr. Krauter was united in marriage with a daughter of Christ Hoffman oí Ohio County, West Virginia, he being a retired butcher residing in Fulton. To this union were born two daughters, Carrie and Minnie, aged 20 and 16 years, respectively. In politics our subject has always been a Republican. education for the past twelve years, and for ten years has been commissioner of the Martin's Ferry & Colerain Pike. Fraternally he is a member of the National Union. Religiously he is a German Lutheran, but his family is Presbyterian.

THEODORE NEFF, one of the best known citizens and business men of Belmont County, Ohio, maintains an office at No. 3184 Union street, Bellaire, and conducts the largest fire, life, accident, tornado and windstorm insurance business in the county. He and Maryland. Conrad Neff, grandfather of our subject, a native of Maryland, with two brothers, John and George, started overland for Missouri in 1797. Upon arriving at Wheeling, (West) Virginia, the wife of Conrad Neff was taken sick and died. John Neff with Conrad. With their families they crossed the river and located a few miles from Bridgeport, in Belmont County, where they entered land. The numerous representatives of the Neff family, so widely known in Belmont County, are all descended from these hardy pioneers. Conrad Neff had two children. a second union in 1802 or 1803 with Eliza-

Of the twelve children of whom he was tather, all lived to reach the age of seventy years, and one of them, Benjamin, is now residing in Pultney township, being past eighty years of age.

George Neff was born three miles east of 5t. Clairsville in 1809, and died December 18, 1884. He followed the occupation of farming, and during most of his life resided near Captina Creek. He married Martha Williams, who was born in 1811 in one of the first houses built in Bridgeport, and died in September, 1878. She was a daughter of Ezra Williams, who was born in County Cork, Ireland, and came to this country at an early day.

Theodore Neff's boyhood days were spent in York township, where he lived until he passed the age of 35 years. In 1901 he purchased his present home farm, a part of the Jacob Rodefer farm, on the hill overlooking many miles of the Ohio Valley and the cities of Wheeling and Bellaire. Here he will soon have laid out and suitably set with trees a park to be known as Neff's Grandview Park, which will be a valuable addition to the city of Bellaire. A means of transportation will be provided to convey people up and down the bluff, and the view being one of unsurpassed beauty, it will be a very popular place. Mr. Neff owns five farms in Belmont County, and for many years has engaged in growing vegetables and raising thoroughbred, stock and fowls of all kinds. He is a Democrat in politics, but has accepted of no offices except assessor of York township, in which capacity he served two terms. He and his

No. 438, F. & A. M. On his farm is located an abundance of splendid molding sand, for the removal and exportation of which the Belmont Sand Company was organized. The pits contain sands of every grade, for heavy and light molding, building, for plastering and bricklaving. The

Mr. Neff's farm and otheis in the county, and supply sand for the local market and for many large corporations in other parts of the country, including the Pennsylvania Railroad. At the present time about 100 tons per day are taken from the pits and loaded upon cars. In the near future upto-date machinery, probably electrical, will be installed to reduce to a minimum the expense of loading and digging. Ochre is also found conveniently and will later be developed. Mr. Neff has been the prime mover in various business enterprises, notable among which is the Enterprise Enamel Company, of which he purchased the first shares of stock.

Five different business concerns have their office and headquarters at No. 3184 Union street, the office of Mr. Neff. Following is a brief sketch of each: y

Neff, J. B. Watt, John T. Flynn, J. A. Green and Thomas E. Shelly. J. A. Green is president; H. A. Neff, secretary and manager, and five of the organizers are directors. The plant is located on Monroe street, between 35th and 36th streets, and supplies light and power for the city.

The Neff Real Estate & Investment Company was organized and chartered under the laws of Ohio in the spring of 1902 by Theodore Neff, John W. Neff, Harry A. Neff, Thomas B. McKelvey and J. O. Mc- Kelvey, these men constituting the board of directors. The officers are: T. B. McKelvey, president; Harry A. Neff, secretary, and E. D. Neff, treasurer. An extensive business has been done toward improving the city and suburbs, especially at Shadyside, where free excursions are run by the company and many lots have been sold for residence and speculative purposes. The prospects of the suburb for a home site are bright.

The Enterprise Telephone Company has over sixty 'phones in use, besides centrals, accommodating a large number of farms and business houses. The suburban line operates through St. Joe, McClainsville, Neff's siding, Bald Knob, etc., with central at Valonia and branches to Dillie's Bottom, and central at Key, with branches among farmers. It has central exchange with the National and Ohio Valley companies at Bellaire. Robert McKelvey 1s president; Willam Unterzuber, vice-president; Franklin Neff, secretary, and J. O. McKelvey, treasurer. Among the directors are William Ramsey, Samuel White, John W. Neff, Alexander Neff and Dr. Korell of Key.

The Eastern Ohio Milling Company was recently incorporated for the purpose of milling, dealing in feed and the wholesale grocery business. The officers are: George O. Robinson, president; Morris Elikan, vice- : president, and J. P. Clutter, secretary and treasurer. The office will be at the old Ault Mill, which will be remodeled and equipped. The directors of the company incude Alexander Neff and H. A. Neff. s -

December 4, 1878, Theodore Neff was united in marriage with Nancy J. McKelvey of Mead township, and they have three children, namely, Edney D., aged 22 years, who has for the past five years engaged in the insurance business with his father; Jacob H., who is 18 years old and lives at home,.and Carrie L., aged 16 years. Religiously the family attends the U. P. Church.

JULIUS H. HAYS, superintendent of the carpenter and construction gang at the Bellaire plant of the National Steel Company for the past twelve years, is one of the oldest employees of the plant, his term of service ranking second. Mr. Hays is highly esteemed by his employers for his efficiency and long vears of faithful attachment to their

Julius 'H. Hays was born in 1852 in Germany, and alone and dependent upon his own resources he came to America at the age of 15 years. In Germany his father operated a large wind-power flouring mill, but the youth believed he could better his condition in a new country. A sister, Mulder, resides in Texas. Being willing, energetic and pleasant in manner, he soon secured employment in New Y ork as clerk in a two years, and then went to Wheeling, West Virginia, There he learned the carpenter trade with William Bitmeyer, and followed the same in Wheeling, later being one of the builders of the Aetna Standard Mill In 1884 he came to Bellaire and began work as a journeyman carpenter with his present employers, and by careful and thorough work gained his promotion in 1890 to the position of superintendent of all of the carpentering and construction of the heavy rigging of the steel works with a force of from 40 to 50 men under his charge. During his seventeen years' connection with this plant Mr. Hays has seen many changes. When he came here in 1884 three carpenters only were required where now fourteen, with helpers, are needed, and the mules which used to pull the cars have been replaced by twelve locomotives. The single blast furnace, where 60 tons of pig-iron was a large day's work, has been superseded' by furnaces with a capacity of 350 tons.

Mr. Hays has a beautiful home at No. 4754 Jefferson street, containing eight apartments and surrounded by a fine lawn. The house was erected by him in 1888. He has a most interesting family, which is well and favorably known in the city. His marriage was to Carrie Backer, daughter of Peter Backer, who came to Wheeling 52 years ago from Germany and was engaged for 28 years at the La Belle coal mine. Mr. Backer at the age of 81 years is still vigorous and but lately returned from an enjoyable visit to his native land. The five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hays were: Anna, at home; Alberta,

In political sentiment Mr. Hays is an ardent Republican, and he is fraternally connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. In his religious views he is very > liberal, seeing good in every denomination, but his family attend the Episcopal Church, and this he liberally assists. From the position of a poor German lad without friends, Mr. Hays has made his own way in the world and now possesses ample means, many friends and is well deserving the high esteem in which he is held by those who know him best.

Coc James .F.-Charleswor'Th

COC JAMES .F.-CHARLESWOR'TH, who has attained a high degree of success as an attorney-at-law of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was born in that city, November 25, 1826, and is à son of Richard and Jane (Porter) Charlesworth. His father was one of the early business men of St. Clairsville, having come to Bel- «mont County from Baltimore, Maryland, in 1820.

James F. Charlesworth was educated at Granville College, where he completed the course in/1844, and then engaged in business with his father. At the outbreak of the war with Mexico, he and his younger brother, Richard W., left home and enlisted in Company H, First Regiment Mounted Rifles, now the 3rd U. S. Cavalry. They saw active ser- . vice in Mexico under Gen. Winfield Scott, and Colonel Charlesworth was wounded at Contreras. The colonel of his regiment performed the functions of mayor of the City of Mexico after the entrance of the United States troops, and the regiment was detailed for police duty for a period of nine months, quitting the city after the declaration of peace. Shortly after the war, Mr. Charlesworth returned to St. Clairsville, and entered upon the study of law under the supervision of General Weir. After his admission to the bar, in 1851, he successfully engaged in practice until 1854, when he

County, and served as such for a term of two vears. In 1857, he became proprietor and editor of the Independent Republican, a paper which he published until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he felt that duty to his country called him to the field. He raised the first three years' company entered on the records of the adjutant general, and of this was commissioned captain, July 12, 1861. His previous military service made him of exceptional value to the country at this time. He was active in the field, and in the fall of 1861 received a slight wound at Alleghany Summit, Virginia. His ability as a soldier and leader attracted the attention of his superior officers, and he was rewarded by promotion as major of his regiment, May 16, 1862. On' June 8th, of the same year, he was severely wounded at the battle of Cross Keys, a minnie ball entering the abdomen, and coming out about two inches from the spinal column. On July 30,

1862, he was promoted to be lieutenant-colonel, and on May 18, 1863, resigned because of physical disability, further service being impossible. His resignation received the following indorsement from Brig.-Gen. N. C. Mc- Lean, at the headquarters of the First Division, 11th Army Corps, at Brooks Station, May 13, 1863: "Approved and respectfully forwarded to Lieut-Col. Charlesworth; I approve as I personally know him to be disabled by an honorable wound." Colonel Charlesworth still possesses the ball which passed through his body, and was found where he fell. He also has in his possession the vest then worn by him, showing the direction the ball took. These relics he treasures as mementoes of honorable service. |...

- Upon his return home Colonel Charlesworth entered upon his duties as clerk of Belmont County, to which office he had been elected while in the service. In 1864, he served as colonel of the 1st Regiment, Belmont County Militia. On the expiration of his term as clerk, he was appointed master commissioner of the Court of Common Pleas, and served in that capacity for nine years. During the troubles incident to the construction of the Central Ohio Railroad, now the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, he was appointed and commissioned a captain, to organize the celebrated Washington Guards, which were on duty about four years. He also rendered valuable service to St. Clairsville during the county seat contest with Bellaire, and he and his associates succeeded in having the Legislature make appropriations for the present magnificent county building. He is a Democrat, in politics, and has been an enthusiastic worker for party success. He was a delegate to the convention which nominated James E. Campbell for governor; he has served as vice-president of the Democratic State Central Committee, and as" trustee of the Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Home. His fraternal associations are x emus No TO ESA ME Chapter ee o. 17, R. A' M.; and Hope Commandery. No c Kal He is a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was formerly commander of the Belmont County Battalion.

. J.R. ANDERSON, superintendent of the public schools of Belmont County, Ohio, a man of scholarly attainments and personal popularity, is an Ohio product, born at Bellaire in 1863, a son of Isaac C. and Mahala J. (Lashley) Anderson, the latter of whom belongs to an old county family which located southeast of the city of Bellaire as early as 1630.

The Andersons were natiges of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and there Isaac C. Anderson was born 76 years ago. A notable occasion was the celebration of the golden wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac C. Anderson, wa took place at the family residence, No. 612 Vine street, Bellaire, in October, 1901. Mr. Anderson is a veteran of the Civil War, and he and his estimable wife are the central figures in a large family of children, namely: William, who is engaged in business in connection with the Bellaire Foundry & Machine Company; Mrs. P. R. Myers, who resides at Quincy, Illinois; Mrs. N. J. Mc- Donald, who resides in Bellaire; Newton, who is also connected with the Bellaire Foundry; J. Albert, who resides at South Bend, Indiana; J. R., who is the subject of this review; Mrs. Maria J. Simpson, who lives in Bellaire; Mrs. O. C. Henry, who is a resident of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and Charles, who is associated with the subject of this sketch in the ownership of the Bellaire Foundry & Machine Company plant.

The primary education of Superintendent Anderson was obtained in the public schools of Bellaire, and his degree of M. A. was secured after doing collegiate work at Bethany, West Virginia. Mr. Anderson's services were immediately secured in the public schools of his native city, and for one year he was principal of the Second Ward school and for ten years was assistant principal of the Central building, in 1898 becoming superintendent, filling the position with the*same efficiency which has marked his whole protessional career, bringing the schools to a high standard.

The Bellaire Foundry & Machine Company, with which enterprise our subject is financially connected, was established in 1895 by Charles and J. R. Anderson and Clarence Simpson, the last named withdrawing after three years. The business is now the prop- . ertv of the Anderson brothers and is located at the corner of 33rd and Hamilton streets, where a large business is done, requiring the aid of a number of skilled foundrymen and machinists. It is one of the successful industries of Bellaire.

The marriage of Prof. J. R. Anderson was to a daughter of John Wood, who came some thirty years ago to Bellaire, and for thirty vears has been one of the leading contracting carpenters in this vicinitv. Mr. and Mrs. Wood reside at Shadvside. The seven children born to our subject and wife were as follows: Edward, Clarence, Walter, Robert, Bertie, Ethel and Raymond. Our subject was reared to believe implicitly in the principles of the Republican party, of which his father has been an adherent from its organization, and is active in its interests. Fraternally he is associated withthe Ionic Lodge, F. & A. M., of Bellaire, the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows. The Christian Church has long been the religious body with which both the Anderson and Wood families have been identified, and our subject is one of its deacons and liberal supporters. His standing as teacher and citizen is unquestioned, and his personal attributes have brought to him a wide circle of friends.

ROBERT McDONALD, a competent foreman to the superintendent of the converting and blooming mill oj the National Steel Works at Bellaire, Ohio, is a veteran in the steel business, having done his first work in.that line in 1875. At that time he entered the Edgar Thompson Steel Works, a part of the Carnegie plant, and has labored faithfully in developing the steel industry ever sincé. He spent nine years in the Duquesne mill, resigning his situation there to accept his present position at Bellaire, where he located in April, 1898. From 100 to 200 men are employed in the departments under his charge, and as Mr. McDonald has worked his way through all the lower and intermediate departments, he is well fitted to fulfll the duties devolved upon him.

Our subject is a native of Pennsylvania and has one brother, J. H. McDonald, who is superintendent of the department at the steel works of which the subject of this sketch is foreman. The residence of Mr. McDonald is at No. 4269 Noble street. Three years ago he was called upon to mourn the death of his wife, who was a Kentucky lady. Five children blessed their union. The eldest daughter, Bertha. who is eighteen vears old, manages the home for her father and looks after the younger children, Clifford, Flora and Esther, whose ages are, respectively, thirteen, eleven and eight years. Foster, the eldest son, who is twenty years old, is employed at the steel works.

Mr. McDonald is a faithful adherent to the Republican party, and uses both his vote and his influence to advance its interests. In fraternal organizations he is allied with the Masons, being a member of both blue lodge and the chapter of Bellaire. In his religious opinions he favors the Presbyterian Church, but his children prefer to attend the United Presbyterian. |

R. SMILEY NELSON, proprietor of the United States Dairy, conducts the leading business in that line in Bellaire, Ohio. He was born in Pultney township in 1856, is a son of Matthew G. and Mary Ann (Keyser) Nelson, and grandson of Robert and Mary (McGregor) Nelson.

Robert Nelson was a native of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and located in Belmont County in I812, purchasing at that time a 160-acre farm in section 25, Pultney township. He cleared this farm and upon it followed agricultural pursuits up to the time of his death, March 5, 1857. He was 69 years and six months old at the time of his death. His wife survived him for many years, and only two of her children lived to witness her death, which occurred November 21, 1881, she being in her 86th year. Eight children -were born to her and her husband, namely, John, Robert, Elizabeth, Matthew CG. Thomas, Alexander, Benjamin Franklin and Margaret. i

John Nelson was born in 1819, and died in 1902 in Illinois. Robert resides on the old home farm in Pultney township. He was born October 8, 1822, and married in 1849 Emeline Cummings, a daughter of Joseph and Anne (Prescott) Cummings. His wife was a native of Kennebec County, Maine, born in 1825. They have five children, as follows: Helen, wife of Warren Holgate, a ranchman of Manhattan, Montana; Annie; Edwin, a merchant in the State of Maine; Frank, who resides in Pultney township, and Margaret, wife of Rev. Ashbel Lane of Fremont, Ohio.

Matthew G. Nelson, the father of our subject, was born January 28, 1827, in Pultney township. He followed farming and died in 1871, but two months before his 45th birthday. His widow is stil living, being now 79 years old. She resides with our subject. Five children were born to her and her husband. Of these, two, Ella and William, died young. One daughter, Lizzie, resides in Pultney township with our subject, while Frank K., our subject's only brother, has a family and resides on Wheeling Island, being an employee of the Aetna Standard Mill.

We now take up the lfe or our subject, R. Smiley Nelson. He was reared on his father's farm in Pultney township, and during his., youth he attended Rock Hill School. He followed in the footsteps of the grandíather and father and confined himself to agricultural pursuits until about eight years ago. At that time he believed he saw a good busi- . ness opening, and his effort during the intervening years have proved the correctness of his judgment.

He established the United States Dairy at Bellaire and does a thriving business in that prosperous city. He runs two wagons, which cover regular routes daily, and about 100 gal- lons of milk and cream are required to supply regular customers. Mr. Nelson keeps 40 good milch cows, many of them thoroughbreds - Jersey, Holstein and Durham breeds. The constant attention of four men is required to handle the business, which is conducted on a well-paying basis.

Mr. Nelson has a finely improved farm. His residence is large and comfortable, while many other convenient buildings are found on his place.

His marriage with Cordelia H. Robinson resulted in the birth of three daughters and one son. The latter, John G., drives one of his father's milk wagons. The other children Gara, Estella and Rachel, are also at home. Politically, Mr. Nelson is a stanch Republican. He is public spirited and charitable. He is a member of Rock Hill Presbyterian Church.

ROGER ASHTON, a prominent citizen of Martin's Ferry, councilman from the First Ward, superintendent of local mines, and a stockholder in the German Bank, was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, September 11, 1845.

The parents of Mr. Ashton were John and Mary (Clayton) Ashton, who lived in Wales all of their lives. John Ashton was a wool carder by trade and followed the occupation through life. He lived to be over 82 years of age, surviving his wife many years, her death occurring at the age of 65 years. Both parents were members of the Calvinistic Methodist - Church. They were the parents of ten children, the five survivors being the following: John, who is a merchant in Wales; Richard, who is a miner in Wales; Thomas, who resides in Hocking Valley, Perry County, Ohio; William. who resides at Little Falls, New York; the fifth being Roger, of this biography. The are: Edward. who died at the age of 23; Elizabeth, who lived to the age of 60; Benjamin, who died when 23; David, who died at the age of 30: and Mary Ann, who died when nine

Mr. Ashton had absolutely no early educational advantages, his first opportunity for attending school presenting itself when he was 23 years of age. At that time he was even ignorant of the letters of the alphabet, but he made excellent use of his six months at school, made such rapid progress, especially in mathematics, that his knowledge surpassed that of his teacher. After this period of schooling was passed he began business as a coal weigher, following that occupation for the succeeding nine years, at which time he came to the United States. Mr. Ashton began his business career in this country as a miner, digging coal in the very mines which are now being operated under his superintendence. They are located within the corporate limits of Martin's Ferry, and are owned by the American Sheet Steel Company. It is a testimonial to the ability and efficiency of Mr. Ashton that he has risen from one of the most subordinate positions to his present one of responsibility, and has so satisfactorily filled the same for the past fifteen vears. The high esteem in which he is held by the company is well deserved and very gratifying. ,

The first marriage of Mr. Ashton was in his native land to Margaret Evans, who died March 19. 1891, at the age of 42 years. A family of r2 children was born to this union, all of whom died in infancy with the exception of David R., who is a tin worker, unmarried, marriage of Mr. Ashton was on August 3, 1891, to Margaret Meredith, a native of Wales, who came to America in 1889, a daughter of Gwenllyn Meredith. The children born to this union were as follows: Roger; Edith, who died at the age of seven months; Mary; John, who died at the age of one vear; and Margaret. Mr. Ashton has accumulated ample means. and owns three houses and one valuable lot within the corporate limits. He has taken an active part in the political life of the community and his election as councilman on April 7, 1902, was not only a triumph for the Republican ticket, but also a testimonial to his personal popularity as his majority was nine over three to one against his opponent. Fraternally Mr. Ashton belongs to the Elks.

A review of the career of Mr. Ashton gives an excellent illustration of the success which awaits those who come to America resolved to live a life of industry, to become integral parts of this great Nation and become its useful citizens. At the same time it may be noted that Mr. Ashton is a worthy representative of ' a country whose sturdy sons have contributed, in no small degree, to the prosperity of many sections of their adopted land.

A. O. MELLOTT, ex-mayor of Bellaire and senior member of the firm of Mellott Son, undertakers and furniture dealers, owns the finest establishment of its kind in Bellaire and for many years has been one of the most successful merchants of that place. About 30 vears ago. he purchased the store of the Marietta Chair Company, which at that time was entirely new, having just been rebuilt after a destructive fire. Mr. Mellott restocked the building and added the undertaking department.

The building in which his business is conducted is located on the corner of 33rd and Belmont streets, is 40 by 120 feet and is two stories high. The undertaking parlors are located on the second floor and first-class: work in this line is guaranteed by Mr. Mellott, who is an expert embalmer. The furniture department contains a complete variety of up-to-date furniture at moderate prices, and the quality of goods is not surpassed anywhere-in the city.

Mr. Mellott was born in Richland township, near Glencoe, in September, 1830. His father, William Mellott, was a -native of Eastern Pennsylvania, and the year 1800 marks the date of his birth. About 1804 he was brought to Belmont County, Ohio, by his father, John Mellott, who located the first year on a tract now known as the Dixon farm. Later, he removed to the farm near Glencoe, which he purchased, and which is still in the possession of the family, being, at the present time, owned by James Mellott, a brother to our subject. The grandfather and father both followed farming as an avocation, and the former died in Monroe County when about 72 years of age. The latter died in 1885 at the great age of four score years and five. Both were -stanch Democrats in politics.

The mother of our subject was, before marriage, a Miss Ault, and was also a native of the Keystone State. She is also deceased. Her father, Frederick Ault, moved to Belmont County between 1820 and 1825, and two brothers, Frederick and George, reside near Belmont. Mr. Mellott has four brothers and one sister, as follows: Frederick, a farmer in Monroe County, Ohio; Isaac, a farmer of Mead township, Belmont Countv, Ohio; Sarah, who married a Mr. Manchester, a farmer and railroad man of Mead township; David, a farmer of York township; and James, who resides on.the home farm near Glencoe..

The subject of this biography was educated in the schools of Richland township and in the Barnesville Academy, and for the following 18 vears he engaged in teaching school; then he followed agricultural pursuits for about five years. . In 1867 he removed to Bellaire, and his interests have been identified with that city ever since. He operated a general merchandise store on Union street and carried on a successful business there for three years. Disposing, of his business at a fair profit, he embarked in the manufacturing business with the Bellaire Stamping Company, being one of the organizers of the same, also serving as director. Then followed.a prosperous period, during which he served as mayor and as justice of the peace, previous to engaging in the vast business enterprise which still claims his attention.

Myers, a distinguished citizen of Mead township, and she was a descendant of one of the oldest families of Belmont County. Mrs. Mellott was born in 1837 and passed to her final rest in February, 1897. Three children were born to our subject and wife. William D., the eldest son, is the junior member of the firm of Mellott & Son, having been admitted into the business in 1884. Alice, the only daughter, married Aaron Smalley, of Indianapolis, Indiana. James F., the youngest son of our subject, is an expert accountant and bookkeeper and for the past I4 years has served as bookkeeper of the First National Bank of Bellaire. He is married and resides in that city. The family favor the Methodist Episcopal Church.

In all respects Mr. Mellott is a useful and influential member of society. Although a business man, he is well informed on all topics of general interest. As a friend he is highly valued, tor he is ever ready with counsel, help and encouragement. His success has come from steady purpose and constant industry, and he justly merits the position of true worth and esteem which he has attained. He has a fine residence on the corner of Harrison and 32nd streets.

Mr. Mellott was one of the incorporators of the First National Bank of Bellaire, Ohio, and has been a director in that institution since its organization.

CLARENCE E. BAUER,-a director oí .the Novelty Stamping Company and for the past eight years superintendent of the stamping department of this successful plant, has been a resident of Bellaire since 1873, in which city he was educated.

The birth of Mr. Bauer occurred in 1862 in Virginia, and during his early vouth with his parents he resided at different towns in the Ohio Valley. His family and kindred are not very numerous, but he has two brothers and one sister residing at Bellaire. 1874 he has been interested in the stamping business, having at that date entered the employ of the old Bellaire Stamping Works, to which the Novelty plant succeeded. The stamping department, which is immediately under his supervision, is one of the most important in the business, and forty men and a large amount of valuable machinery is in his charge, it being his business to see that they work in unison, with the greatest amount of accuracy and perfection, and with the least amount of expense. To successfully do this requires a man of certain talents, and these Mr. Bauer possesses.

The family resides at No. 3628 Harrison street. His political affiliation is with the Republican party, although merely as a supporter, not as an office seeker. He is justly regarded as one of the enterprising business men of the city, and the plant with which he is associated is widely known for its excellent products.

ROBERT L. HENDERSON, a photographer by profession, is said to be the best artist in Bellaire, Ohio. Mr. Henderson was born in 1869 in the city which is still his i home, and he is a son of Robert and Hester J. (Sellers) Henderson. His father was a saddler by trade prior to his removal from Richmond, Virginia. After locating in Ohio, however, he followed railroad life, being employed in the transportation department of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad at Bellaire. He died in 1893, at the early age of 42 years.

The mother of our subject is still living, being at the present time a resident of Clarksburg, West Virginia. She was born in Wheeling, now West Virginia, and is a Her father removed from West Virginia to Bellaire, Ohio. where he conducted a jewelry store.

Cora, who is still at home. Our subject was educated in the public schools of Bellaire and in his youth learned the photographer's trade with Mr. Sellers, an uncle, who now conducts a portable gallery. He began business on his own behalf in 1896 and has been very successful. His gallery is located at No. 3161 Union street, just north of the

Emma Coffman, of Bellaire, became the wife of our subject, and they have two children, Paul and Mildred. home was formerly in Centreville, Ohio, and the family have a pleasant cottage on Gravel Hill. In politics our subject 1s outspoken and true in his allegiance to the Republican party, and in fraternal circles he belongs to the Knights of Pythias and to the K. O. T. M. The family embrace the religion of the Christian Church and have a large number of friends. Mr. Henderson, wide awake to the interests of his community, is an upright, consistent and reliable citizen.

JAMES M. WEEKS, president of the C. L. Dorer Foundry Company, located on "Water street, north of 26th, is also manager of the National Glass Works, located on 21st and Union streets, the latter being owned by T. A. Rodefer.

miler by trade and has followed that business for many years. William Weeks was born 65 vears ago in the Shenandoah Valley and married in Virginia, rearing a family of four sons and three daughters: James M., our subject; Harry C., a glass-worker at Belaire; Lilly (Mrs. Patterson), of Baker City, Oregon; Nora (Mrs. Long), of Mc

James M. Weeks, of this sketch, was reared near Bellaire.and had but limited school advantages, it being necessary for him to leave school early in order to become an earning factor in the family. He first learned the glass business, working his way through all the various departments and becoming thoroughly acquainted with every detail Since February r, 1893, he has been connected with the National Glass Works, and for the past three years has had entire charge of the maníacturing part of the plant, employing 150 men and boys. They turn out lamp chimneys, lantern globes, vault lights, sky lights and prismatic window lights, the output being in demand all over the country. The C. L. Dorer Foundry Company was established and incorporated in the winter of 1900-01, by J. M. Weeks, C. L. Dorer, Henry Vaupel, Sebastian Wimmer, and Clarence Simpson, the last named having charge of the business as general manager. The other officers are: C. L. Dorer, secretary and treasurer; S. Wimmer, vice-president, and our subject, president. This new and prosperous enterprise has enjoyed encourag - ing patronage and employs some 12 skilled mechanics, and prospects are that the number will soon be increased, as large contracts have been secured. The businéss is that of a general line of foundry work, a specialty being made of glass-mold castings. In addition to the great business interests which he has shown such ability to manage, Mr. Weeks is largely interested in Western lands. including mining property.

The marriage of our subject was to Della Lafferty, a native of Belmont County, and the pleasant family residence is at No. 2009 Belmont street. In politics Mr. Weeks favors the Prohibition party, while in religious connection he belongs to the South Bellaire Methodist Church. In our subject we find a typical representative of a self-made man, and he possesses the poise, the clear-headed shrewdness of one who has had to battle for his rights, and the confidence of one who has been successful. He has shown his ability in directing business affairs and in managing large forces of men, and takes a leading position in the business world of Bellaire. He is much assisted by his happy faculty of making friends and is regarded with esteem by those who know him either publicly or socially.

LOUIS LINCOLN SCHEEHLE, clerk of the courts of Belmont County, and an esteemed and well-known citizen of Martin's Ferry, was born in Wheeling, West Virginia, June 26, 1864, being a son of Philip G. and Elizabeth (Hardman) Scheehle; both of whom were born in Germany. - -

Philip G. Scheehle came to the United States. He was a contractor and builder of note; the Moundsville Penitentiary, the Wheeling Post Office, and many other imposing buildings stand to testify to his constructive ability. In Martin's Ferry he erected the Buckeye glass house and at Morgantown, West Virginia, he built the main collége structure. Mr. Scheehle was well and favorably known through several States as a contractor of reliability. He was a man of ample means, of generous disposition and good citizenship. He belonged to the Lutheran Church. His death occurred at the age of 66 years. His wife died at the age of 64 years. They had a family of 12 children.

Louis Lincoln Scheehle was the seventh member of his parents' family and the only one who resides in the State of Ohio. His education was secured in the schools of Wheeling and in Frasher's Business College in that city. After finishing his attendance at school, he accepted a clerkship in a Wheeling grocery store and continued in the service of one employer for seven years. Martin's Ferry and put into practice the knowledge which his seven years had brought him. He embarked in the grocery business and this he has continued at the same place ever since, managing it with excellent ability, and furnishing to the people of Martin's Ferry a store second to none. Mr. Scheehle has been a very successful investor in real estate and owns much valuable property. His attractive residence on sth street is one of the handsomest and most elegantly appointed in the city. It is his intention to still farther extend his business, which is now the largest in the county, by providing still larger and more modern quarters and adding to his now extensive stock everything to be found in grocery establishments in any part of the world.

In almost all of the prominent business enterprises of Martin's Ferry he has taken a leading part. For two terms he was a member of the board of the electric light plant. He now is president of the Retail Grocer's Association of Martin's Ferry, and his interest in educational matters has been shown by his serving two terms on the School Board, one term as its president. For many years he has been the treasurer of the German Lutheran Church. He is regarded as one of the city's most substantial and reliable men. His reputation as a capitalist is founded upon ample means and large real estate holdings. In 1901 he was elected clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, on the Republican ticket.

On September 14, 1890, Mr. Scheehle was married to Louisa J., daughter of the late Charles Seabright, and three children have been born to this union, namely: Elsie, Harold G. and Edward R. The religious connection of the family is with the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Scheehle is à member of the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and the Junior Order of United American Mechanics of Martin's Ferry.

THOMAS J. MEARS, formerly a prominent manufacturer of Martin's Ferry, now deceased, was born in Wellsville, Ohio, on August 9, I848, being a son of Thomas and Jane (Callahan) Mears. His paternal grandparents were Mark and Judith (Dunn) Mears,

America in 1836, settling at Montreal, Canada. Two years later he came to the United States and followed his trade of road contracting. In 1839 he removed to Defiance, Ohio, and secured the contract for digging a part of the Maumee Canal, where he was engaged for two years. His next work was at Wellsville, Ohio, where he graded two miles of the Cleveland Pittsburg Railroad from that place to Yellow Creek, and also graded the road through Martin's Ferry. Another of his contracts was the turnpike road from Martin's Ferry to Mount Pleasant, Ohio. He died while engaged on the contract for railroad construction through Martin's Ferry. His widow survived until April 11, 1902, dying when almost 84 years of age. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Mears, viz, Mihomas Ja Catherine (Mrs. Charles Burns), oí Bellaire, Ohio; Mary, who for the past 32 years has been one of the Sisters of the Visitation of Abingdon, Virginia, and Elizabeth, who resides at the old home in Martin's Ferry.

The late Thomas J. Mears was educated in Martin's Ferry and learned the cooper's trade, which he followed for some ten years. In 1873 he started a small factory in company with Willam Houge, George Watson and John Bowen, but this enterprise was not successful. In the following January, under other conditions, he again embarked in business in association with D. Park, Jr., on the site of the present works. In 1878 the plant was destroyed by fire, but business had been so prosperous that the factory was immediately rebuilt. On the death of Mr. Park in 1881, Mr. Mears became the sole proprietor and so continued until his own demise, on December 26, 1897, aged 49 years, 4 months and 18 days. His establishment was one of the most extensive plants for the manufacture of casks, barrels, kegs and boxes in the Upper Ohio Valley, and its prosperous development was a most eloquent commentary upon the business ability of its founder. Mr. Mears had other important business interests. He was one of the organizers of the Northwood Glass Works and a director of the same; a stockholder in the Crystal Glass Company of Bridgeport; also in the Junction Iron Works at Mingo Junction, and the Elson Glass Works. In addition he managed a factory at Bellaire in connection with a factory at Martin's Ferry and owned a general store in the latter city, located on Washington street. His investments in Martin's Ferry were many and important, and he was justly regarded as one of the notably successful men of the community. In his death the city lost one of her most enterprising citizens, one who was ever on the alert to build up the city, especially in the line of manufacturing. He was a stanch Democrat, but took no active part in politics, although he served in the City Council and as township clerk. He was a consistent. member of the Roman Catholic Church at Wheeling.

On February 16, 1882, Mr. Mears was married to Emma Watson, daughter of William S. and Delilah H. (Williams) Watson, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania. By trade William S. Watson was a nailer and made his home in Wheeling, (West) Virginia, prior to his marriage. About 1850 he moved to Martin's Ferry, having married in 1849, and lived there until his death, which took place in May, 1898, at the age of 75 years. The mother of Mrs. Mears was born in August, 1831, and died December 3, 1879. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Mears were Nathan and Lucy (Foraker) Watson, the former of whom lived into advanced age, the latter dying in early womanhood, William being the youngest child in their family. The maternal grandparents were Thomas and Hannah (Johnson) Williams, the former of whom was for a long period a manufacturer of edged tools in Belmont County.

children, as follows: John, who ista resident of Bridgeport; William, who died in boyhood; Joshua, who resides in Martin's Ferry; Hannah, who died at the age of two years; Adelaide P., who married William Woods. a farmer of Belmont County; Emma, who became Mrs. Mears; and James, who died at the age of 10 years. Five children were born to Thomas J. and Emma (Wat son) Mears, as follows: Janie P., born December 22, 1882, died August 6, 1896; Emma W., born October 9, 1884, died on New Year's Day, 1899; Inez A., Lucy B. and Thomas J. -

Mr. Mears was well known and universally respected, and his fellow citizens recall him with words of praise. To those who were admitted to his friendship and private life,

JAMES F. McGILL, a prominent and successtul citizen of Barnesville, Ohio, conducts a large blacksmith shop in this city, and also deals extensively in buggies, wagons and improved machinery of various kinds, being himself a practical machinist.

Mr. McGill was born September 9, 1859, on his father's farm in Warren township, Belmont County, Ohio. He is a son of John and Mary (Moore) McGill. John McGill was born in Belmont County, July 26, 1816, and died February 14, 1896. His widow still survives. He was one of the leading farmers of Warren township, and the family has been held in high esteem there for a long period.

James F. McGill obtained an excellent common school education in Warren township, and _ at the age of 21 years began to learn the blacksmith's trade. In 1880, he began farming and combined the two lines of business until 1898, when he took a trip to the tar West. He located in Oregon, where he worked at his trade until he came back to his native county, and settled in Barnesville, on September 15, 1901. Since that time he has prospered in his business

Mr. McGill was married March 20, 1883, to Ida M. Outland, a daughter of one of Barnesville's representative citizens. Four children were born to this union, namely: Outland T., who died in infancy; Iva P.; Howard C. and Clinton S. Mr. McGill is a member of the Knights of Pythias, in which he is active. He is regarded as one of the progressive young business men of the city, and is considered an excellent mechanic and a trustworthy and honorable citizen.

JAMES A. JUDKINS, M. D. A leading citizen of Barnesville, Ohio, is found in Dr. James A. Judkins, a prominent physician and surgeon, and a worthy representative of a name long respected in the commercial and social circles of this city.

The birth of Dr. Judkins occurred in 1842, in Barnesville, Ohio, and he was one of a family of three children born to Jesse and Eliza (Bailey) Judkins. The father was born in North Carolina, in 1799, and accompanied his parents to Barnesville in 1808. His father was a physician, and a Friend in religious belief. Thé mother was a daughter of James and Jane Bailey, and was born in York County, Pennsylvania. In his early life, Jesse Judkins was engaged in farming, but later he became a merchant, and carried on an extensive business in Barnesville for many years.

Dr. Judkins attended the common schools of Barnesville, and began the study of medicine under the direction of his predecessor, Dr. E. Williams, in the same office he now occupies. He graduated from the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, in the class of 1866. He was in partnership with Dr. E. Williams, his preceptor, until 1881, after which he remained alone until he associated with him his son, William L. Judkins. who graduated in 1892, from Oberlin College. and later, entered the University of Pennsylvania, from the medical de- the subject of this sketch have been generally recognized by the citizens of Barhesv ille ae vicinity, and he has easily held the position of | the leading practitioner.

Methodist Church, in which it has always been one of the most highly valued. Fraternally, the Doctor Pythias. Politically, he is a stanch Republican. He belongs to the Belmont County Medical Society: sultation with brother practitioners, with whom he enjoys the most cordial relations. is highly esteemed in Barnesville and occupies an enviable position, socially and professionally. Since its organization, he has been one of the directors of the People's National Bank.

CHARLES W. RODEWIG, mayor of the city of Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Bellaire in November, 1862, being a son of Frederick and Margaret (Luckhard) Rodewig, the latter of whom was born 63 years ago in Hesse, Germany, and is now a beloved and honored resident at the home of her son, H. P. Rodewig.

Frederick Rodewig, the father of Mayor Rodewig, was born near Hanover, Germany, where he learned the trade of willow worker, becoming a designer and maker of fancy chairs and other articles. At one time he exhibited some .of his work at a fair in Wheeling. However, Mr. Rodewig was obliged to give up his employment on account of impaired health, resulting from the sedentary occupation. In 1854 he located in Bellaire, and here engaged in a bakery business, which he successfully conducted until about 1887, when he retired from active business life. Mr Rodewig became a prominent and influential man in Bellaire,

UR was active in securing the present electric service. He was one of the originators | of the old line, and also of the gas plant, and later was a stockholder in the gas and electric light company. For nine years he was a member of the Board of Education and for four years was city treasurer, also serv-

| ing for several years as councilman from the | Third Ward. The handsome business block | at No. 3137 Belmont street was erected by is a member of the Knights of |

| him. In politics he was a Democrat. During the period that he was a member of the School Board, a number of the commodious school buildings which adorn the city were

Fred, who is a clerk in his brother's furniture store; Charles W.; Henry P., who is a furniture merchant in Bellaire; John, who is a clerk in the above-named busines': and Edward and George, both connected with the glass works, the latter being a member of the Trade Assembly.

The present presiding city officer of Bellaire, Charles W. Rodewig, the subject of has been connected with the business life of this city since attaining his majority. He assisted his father in the bakery business until 1889, was an efficient member of the police force, engaged in the furniture business for some years, became prominent in Democratic politics, and in April, 1902, was elected mayor of the city. He has justified the expectations of his friends in making a fine officer, and, judging the future by the past, Bellaire will have a clean, honest administration, in which its citizens can take pride.

The first marriage of Mayor Rodewig was to Lena Glaser, who at decease left one daughter, Clara M., a graduate of the Bellaire schools, and although but 18 years of age, a cadet on the teacher's list. The second marriage of Mayor Rodewig was to Elizabeth Ludwig, and they have two children, are German Lutherans. Socially our subject belongs to the Belmont Turnverein, the Knights of Pythias, and the B. P. O..E. and he also belongs to the Chemical Company ot the volunteer fire department.

THOMAS WISTAR SHREVE, a prominent attorney of Martin's Ferry, Belmont . County, Ohio, and a representative of an old and scholarly family, was born in Roscoe, Coshocton County, Ohio, March 31, 1858, and is a son of Charles R. and Martha ( Bradshaw) Shreve, natives of Ohio and New York, respectively. .All his ancestors, as far back as

It is believed that all the Shreves in America are the descendants of one Thomas Sheriff. The first authentic evidence of his presence in the country is found at Plymouth, Massachusetts, under date of December 7, 1641; he | seems to have later moved to Rhode Island. He became the owner of land at Portsmouth, Rhode Island, December 10, 1666. Those of his descendants who stayed in Rhode Island while his son Caleb, who married and went to New Jersey, adopted the form "Shreve." Both names have the same meaning and derivation. Shrievalty, (shrevalty, as it is sometimes spelled) and sheriffalty are different spellings of the same word. Webster says that "shrieve" is a contraction of the Old English "shereve" or "shirereeve."

Caleb Shreve permanently located in New Jersey about 1680. He purchased land in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, to which he got title by virtue of a deed dated January 9, 1676-7.

tion of the house in which Caleb Shreve lived Which was büilt of brick is still standing. He had seven children to each of whom at their marriage he gave a fine farm. Judging from the records of New Jersey, Caleb Shreve and his immediate descendants played a most prominent part in the early history of the colony. Besides being prominent in civil life, the "Official Register of the Officers and Men of New Jersey in the Revolutionary War" shows that there were r2 Shreves, all of whom are believed to have been descendants of Caleb Shreve, in the Revolutionary Army. Among them were three colonels, one lieutenantcolonel, one captain and two lieutenants.

subject, served his country throughout the Revolutionary War. Soon after the battle of Bunker Hill, the Provincial Congress ordered four regiments to be raised from New Jersey. Although Quaker blood coursed in his veins, Israel Shreve promptly responded and was appointed lieutenant-colonel of the second battalion of. New Jersey troops November 8, 1775, and upon the re-organization of the "Jersey Line" November 28, 1776, he was made colonel of the Second Regiment, in which eapacity he served until the end of the war. His regiment was a part of: Maxwell's brigade and was with Washington in many of the most important battles of the Revolutionary War, and under

| his command won laurels in many bloody encounters. His son, Lieut. John Shreve, the great-grandfather of our subject, though a lad of only 13 years of age at the beginning of the war, took an active part in the struggle for independence, much of the time in service with his father. When the .father's regiment

Shreve was appointed an ensign in his father's regiment. When the regiment was re-organized, he was made first ensign in the regiment, and later, July 1, 1777, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Both father and son passed at Valley Forge. Lieut. John Shreve has left, in his own handwriting, lengthy accounts of the connection of himself and his father with the Revolutionary War in general. Both were on the ground during the negotiations between Arnold and Andree, and both were eye witnesses of the latter's execution. Col. Israel Shreve had a brother, William Shreve, who served as major, then as lieutenant-colonel, and finally as colonel of the 1st New Jersey Regiment. Another brother, Samuel Shreve, entered the Revolutionary Army as a captain in the First Battalion Gloucester (New Jersey), and became lieutenant-colonel of the same. Still another brother, Caleb Shreve, was very prominent in civil life, in New Jersey, during the war. Two of the three brothers of Col.

of whom was a captain. All were "Fighting Quakers" and were disciplined for their want of meekness, but after the war were forgiven and allowed to return. Col. Israel Shreve died the same night Washington did, and it is believed about the same hour. It is said that his last words were: "Washington, O! Washington."

forty years of the best part of his life in West- 'ern Pennsylvania, where for a great part of that time he served as a public official in various capacities, representing his county several times in the State Legislature. He died near Alliance, Ohio, at the age of 92 years, honored and respected by all.

His son, Dr. Thomas C. Shreve, the grandfather of our subject, was a graduate of Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, holding high rank among his associates and in the institution, and practiced his profession through life successfully. He passed the early part of his professional life in Ohio, during which time he represented his county in the Ohio Legislature in the years 1845 and 1846. He went to Kansas in 1857, locating at White Cloud. He had become prominent as an Aholitionist before he left Ohio. He was one of the early Republicans in the Sunflower

He was a man of fine personal appearance. It is said of him at his death, that "intelligent, social, high-minded, courteous and honorable, he seemed like a gentleman of the olden time, rarely met in these days." His wife, Ann G. (Coates) Shreve, was a most remarkable woman in every way. She was born in 1802, and was educated at the Friends' school at Westtown, Pennsylvania. In her Ohio home, she warmly espoused the cause of temperance and was one of the first in the struggle for the legal rights of women, at the time when great heroism was required. She was, as well, an active and effective laborer for the freedom of the slaves. She and her husband soon filed. an influential position in their new Kansas home. Shelived nearly 95 years. An interesting story is told of her grandmother Coates. She with her newly married husband were living. during the winter and spring of 1778, on a farm, near the winter camp, occupied by Washington and his army at Valley Forge., One day at the opening of spring, in the absence of both husband and wife, some of Washington's men came to the farm and took away the farm team, leaving an old worn-out horse to do the spring plowing and plantine. On the return of the wife, on learning what had happened, she mounted the old horse and rode to the camp, and asked for an interview with General Washington. He granted the interview. In the course of it, she is said to have assured him, that she and her husband were anxious to do all in their power to supply the needs of the army, but that it was simply impossible for them to do their part in providing provisions, if they were deprived of the assistance of the team which had been taken for the use of the army. She plead her case so elequently that Washington granted her request, and allowed her to take the team back home with her.

Charles R. Shreve, the father of our subject. was one of the ablest and best known educators in the State of Ohio. He took charge of the schools of Martin's Ferry, in 1859, which schools he served continuously as superintendent and teacher for 29 years.

ing educators of the State have said that Mr. Shreve graduated from the Martin's Ferry schools a class of students second to none in the State. It was said by one of his students, who graduated under him, that if it had been left to the graduates of the Martin's Ferry High School, Mr. Shreve would have been kept in the office of superintendent as long as he was able to attend to its duties, and then would have been pensioned the remainder of his life. When he severed his connection with the schools in 1888, they were recognized by the best in the State. Mr. Shreve acted as county school examiner for Belmont County for a long term of years, and also served one term as State school examiner under Prof. J. J. Burns, State Superintendent of Schools of Ohio. Before coming to Martin's Ferry, he had been for to years superintendent of the public schools of Roscoe, Ohio, and had, earlier still, taught four years in the High School at Massillon, where he met Martha B. Bradshaw, high-minded people and to have English rule in Scotland and Ireland as bravely and with as much self-forgetfulness as did the Shreves in America.

After severing his connection with the schools in 1888, Mr. Shreve engaged in the business of writing life and fire insurance. He died June 1890, at the age of 62 years.

a Friend. After coming to Martin's Ferry, he became a member of the Episcopal Church at Wheeling, West Virginia. Later on, desiring to become associated with a Martin's Ferry church, and as there was no church of the Episcopal denomination in the city then, he affiliated himself with the Presbyterians; but when a branch of the Episcopal Church was organized he united himself with it. He was clerk of the Presbyterian Church from 1868 to 1885. He had many friends, among whom was Rev. George W. Chalfant, D. D., who for years had been pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Martin's Ferry. At the date of the death of Mr. Shreve, Dr. Chalfant was the pastor of one of the leading churches of Pittsburg, whence he came to preach the funeral sermon over his dead friend. Dr. Chalfant began his remarks by saying, in substance, that when in the course of his ministry he came to preach on any particular phase of character, he was in the habit of choosing from among his acquaintances the man whose character would furnish him the best type of the phase.of character to be described, which character he would then take as a basis of the discussion. On one occasion he desired to preach a sermon on the ideal Christian gentleman. He said he did on this occasion as his custom was; he thought over the whole range of his acquaintances, and chose the character of the man who lay before them as the best type known to him personally of what he believed an ideal Christian gentleman should be. He said, "I intend to preach today, as a funeral sermon, the sermon I then preached, with this difference: then, what I said was the life and character of the departed justified my choice of him as the type." Then with eloquence he spoke of the ideal Christian gentleman, illustrating his address with events in the life of Charles R. Shreve.

High School. In the fall of 1880 he entered the law department of the University of Michigan, from which he graduated in 1882 with the degree of LL. B. He spent his vacations reading law in the office and under the direction of Hon. Lorenzo Danford. In May, 1882, he was admitted to the bar by the Supreme Court of Ohio, and at once opened an office in Martin's Ferry, where he is now located. He has practiced his profession in all the courts of the State of Ohio. In 1895 he won a notable victory in the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the "Third Circuit, sitting at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He 1s regarded as one of the most logical reasoners and most careful advisers in the county.

Our subject was brought up in, and early joined, the Episcopal Church, serving the Martin's Ferry church for a number of years as its clerk, a member of its vestry and superintendent of its Sunday-school. He was a member of the building committee that built the church edifice for the organization in Martin's Ferry.

On July 3, 1883, Mr. Shreve was united in marriage to Jennie L. Gray, a daughter of James A. and Martha D. Gray. James. A. Gray was a member of the well known banking firm of Gray & Smith, who organized and successfully conducted for many years in Martin's Ferry the bank known as the Commercial Bank of Martin's Ferry, Ohio. Miss Gray graduated from the Martin's Ferry High School in 1877 and from the Wheeling Female College in 1881. Mrs. Shreve was at her marriage and now is a member of the Presbyterian Church. To them were born four sons, namely: Charles Gray, who graduated from the Martin's Ferry High School in 1902, and is now (1902-03) a freshman in Adelbert College of Western Reserve University, at Cleveland, Ohio; Ernest Bradshaw, of the class of 1904 in the Martin's Ferry High School; James Wistar and Eugene Sheldon. It is a pleasant bit of family history that as and Mrs. Shreve are graduates of the Martin's Ferry High School, 'they are the first couple to have a child follow their example.

Mr. Shreve joined the Presbyterian Church in 1891. In 1893 he became clerk of the coneregation, which office he has ever since held. In 1896 he was elected a trustee, which office he held until his resignation in 1901. On April 3, 1901, he was elected an elder of the same church. He is serving the church as the superintendent of its Sunday-school. He was a member of the building committee that planned for and built the new church edifice for that congregation. Mr. Shreve has held a number of offices 1n connection with union Sunday-school work in the county, township and city. For a time he was president of the Y. M. C. A. of Martin's Ferry.

Mr. Shreve has always taken an active interest in athletics. He was the second member of the Martin's Ferry Volunteer Fire Department, Dr. T. W. Darrah being the first. He was an active member of the Alert Hose Company from 1887 to 1901. He was a member of, and ran with, the Independence Hose team at the beginning of its career as a victorious racing team.

Mr. Shreve 1s actively interested in whatever will further the growth and prosperity of Martin's Ferry and vicinity. He is an active, energetic member of the Martin's Ferry Board of Trade.

The home of our subject is one that is made beautiful by the refining influences of life, and where the old-fashioned virtues of manly honor through achievement, and of attainment through Christian living are taught the vounger generation.

Mr. Shreve's political affiliations are with the Prohibition party. He has been a member of the party since 1888. He has been a candi- - date a number of times for county and local offices on the ticket of that party. On May 16, 1901, he was nominated by the Ohio State

Prohibition Convention, held at Akron, Ohio, tor attorney general of Ohio; and at a like convention held at Martin's Ferry in 1902, he was nominated for Congress for the Sixteenth Congressional District of Ohio.

ROBERT W. MUHLEMAN, M. D, a prominent and successful physician of Bellaire, Ohio, is also a leading citizen who has been identified with many of the business interests which have largely contributed to the prosperity of the city. The birth of Dr. Muhleman took place in Monroe County, Ohio, May 5,

Both parents of our subject were born in Switzerland and came to America and to Monroe County, Ohio, about 1830, and were married in 1843. The father engaged in farming until his death, which took place in 1884, when he was 75 years of age. The mother survived until February, 1898, dying at the age of 79 years. They had eight children, as follows: Edward, a prominent citizen of Bellaire, who is at the head of the Imperial Glass. Company, now engaged in building a plant at a cost of $200,000; Henry, deceased, who was a clerk at the Crystal Window Glass Works, and his family resides at Bridgeport; Charles, who is a physician at Parkersburg, West Virginia, studied with our subject, took a medical course at Cleveland, and practiced for. two years in Bellaire; Mary, who is the wife of the architect, W. B. O'Neill; Caroline, who married A. W. Voegtly, formerly secretary of the Crystal Window Glass Company of Bellaire, now residing at Gas City, Indiana; Sarah, who is a resident of Barnesville, Monroe County, Ohio; Emma (Mrs. Paulus), who resides at Chicago, Illinois. Our subject was the third son of the family.

Dr. Muhleman was primarily educated in the schools of Monroe County and later attended Baldwin University at Berea, Ohio. After completing his collegiate course, he renumber of years and became so well known as an educator that he was elected superintendent of schools at Barnesville, during 1873-74. His aim, however, was to enter the medical profession and his studies had been privately pursued to that end, and after a thorough training under Dr. S. A. Muhleman, of Wheeling, in 1876 he entered Pulte Medical College, at Cincinnati, and graduated in 1877, immediately locating in his present home. Here Dr. Muhleman has enjoyed an extensive and lucrative practice. Early in-his citizenship in Bellaire, he became interested in the glass business, and in company with C. C. Cratty, C. C. Kelley, H. Roemer and others, organized the Union Window Glass Company, in 1879; the instituting of this business enterprise was followed, in 1882, by the organizaton of the Crystal Window Glass Company, in association with D. J. Smith, S. O. Hamilton and John Shannafelt, of which company Dr. Muhleman was chosen president, which official position he has filled ever since. He is also interested in and is the vice-president of the Bellaire Window Glass Company. N

Dr. Muhleman is a man of fine business instinct and when he-invested largely in land at Wichita, Kansas, in 1887, he foresaw the certain develöpment of that State, and realized handsomely on his investments. His ownership of valuable property in Bellaire is large, including residence sections, building blocks, the Post Office building, the furniture store Building occupied by Rodewig, and also the quarters used by the Wheeling Natural Gas Company. The Doctor has taken a deep interest in almost all progressive movements in the city and many of them owe their prosperity to his fostering care. He is vice-president of the Ohio Valley Telephone Company.

Dr. Muhleman has settled convictions on almost all subjects, as is the case with strong men, and his loyalty to the Democratic party is well known to his friends and associates. In a like way he believes in and supports the Methodist Church, his activity taking the form of assisting in its many enterprises and makturned home and engaged in teaching for a | ing possible a wider field for its work. He

R. ROSS WATT, president and general manager, and also the junior member, of the Watt Mining Car Wheel Company, of Barnesville, Ohio, is one of the progressive and energetic young business men which the great development of industries here has brought to the front. The times require active brains and youthful energy and these are supplied hy capable, self-poised, and intelligent young men like R. Ross Watt.

Mr. Watt was born April 17, 1861, in Monroe County, Ohio, where he was reared. He attended the public schools of Barnesville, and graduated from the High School He is a son of Joseph and Maria (Slack) Watt, most highly respected residents of Monroe County. In 1877, Mr. Watt became connected with the Watt Mining Car Wheel Works in the capacity of bookkeeper, and when the concern was organized into a stock company, in 1882, he became financially interested in it and was made secretary and treasurer, in which capacities he continued until May, 1902. The death

' of his brother, James H. Watt, who was the president of the company, then caused a change to be made, and the officers of the company now are: R. R. Watt, president and general manager; J. W. Watt, vice-president and treasurer; P. H. Laughlin, secretary, and Stewart Watt, superintendent. The Watt Mining Car Wheel Works constitutes a leading industry of Belmont County, and gives employment to more persons than any other of the leading business men of this locality. 'On June 11, 1891, Mr. Watt was united in marriage with Mary Lewis, a daughter of J. Milton Lewis, president of the First National Bank of Barnesville. Two children have been born to this union, Alice, and Lewis, who bears his grandfather's honored name. Mr. and Mrs.

Watt are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church and take an active part in its benevolent. and charitable work. In the Masonic fraternity, Mr. Watt is well known, and is in active affiliation with its many bodies. His political sympathy is entirely with the Republican party, although he has no political ambitions. The family home is one of the most beautiful in Barnesville, which is noted. for the taste and elegance displayed in its residences. Mr. Watt and his wife are prominent factors in the higher circles of its social life.

J. A. GREENFIELD), freight agent of the Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad at Bellaire, Ohio, is a typical railroader and has been a faithful employee of that company since 1864, having filled his present position since 1887. Mr. Greenfield was born in Western New York in 1849, and is a son of William Greenfield, who was also a native of the Empire State. With his family he settled in Bellaire in 1864, and was employed for many years in the freight department of the same system upon which our subject is employed. He died in 1876, aged 62 years. His widow is still living and, with her daughter, Jennie, resides with our subject in Bellaire. Her

In early youth Mr. Greenfield began a railroad career, working first on the Pennsylvania lines. He was first stationed at Bellaire as clerk in the freight department, but was soon transferred to different points. He rose from clerk to freight agent, and was employed in the latter capacity at Liverpool for five vears, from 1882 to 1887, when he was transferred to his present position at Bellaire, where he continues to give excellent satisfaction.

all members of the family. For six years he served as deputy supervisor of elections for Belmont County. Socially he is a Mason of high degree, being a member of the blue lodge of Bellaire and of Hope Commandery, K. T., of St. Clairsville. On religious subjects he entertains liberal ideas, but his mother is a Baptist, while his sisters favor the Methodist Church. above reproach. By his own exertions and his faithfulness in executing the trusts imposed upon him, he has worked his way up from an humble position, and deserves great credit.

W. W. COWEN. The subject of this | sketch is not only a prominent member of the | legal profession and a leading citizen of St. | Clairsville, Ohio, but he bears a name which | for many years has been distinguished in Belmont County. The names of Tallman, Carroil. Danford and Cowen have shed luster upon the bar of this county. cessfully treading in the footsteps of his honored father.

lairsville, April 1, 1868. He is a son of Judge D. D. T. Cowen, of Harrison County, Ohio, and Anna E. Martin, his wife, who was born near Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Judge Cowen was for many years so conspicuous a figure in the annals of Belmont County, that the biographer quotes concerning his life and services from a high authority concerning the public men of the Upper Ohio Valley: