Somerset Township (part 8 of 15)

through life and died May 18, 1859. On November 14, 1838, he married Caroline Harrah, who was born on January 22, 1814, on a farm near Lafferty station, where her father, Alexander Harrah, had settled in 1802. The birth ot the latter was on July 7, 1779, and his death occurred July 15, 1859. His wife Jane was born October 17, 1 780, and died March 8, 1861. The mother of our subject died October 20, 1886. The children born to William and Caroline Sharp were these: Isoline, born October 5, 1839, married Samuel Campbell May I9, 1869, and they reside at St. Clairsville; Agnes, born June 16, 1841, married Alexander C. Patton, who is deceased, and she resides near Springfield, with two children; James Alexander, born February 21, 1843, died June 11, on May 20, 1874, Mary J. Walker, and they live at Mutual, Ohio, and have eight children: Joseph L., born May 28, 1847, was married November 30, 1876, to Susanna Frater, and lived on the home farm until both died, leaving five children, - Harry, born June 10, 1879, George and Caroline, twins, born September 7, 1883, and Samuel and Isoline, twins, born May 12, 1893, who "make their home on a part of the old Sharp homestead; Grizella Jane, born September 2, 1849, was married June 28, 1877, to John M. Finney, and lives near Cedarville having five surviving children; Ethelinda, born November 15, 1851, was married November 15, 1871, to M. C. Brownlee, and they live at Columbus, Missouri, and have eight children; and William A., who is the subject of this record. Mr. Sharp was educated liberally, attending both Wooster University and Franklin College. He has devoted his time to agricultural pursuits, having charge of the old homestead farm; has been very successful in raising fine cattle, his herds of Aberdeen-Angus cattle being among the most valuable in the county. He also owns and operates a portable sawmill, and also is interested in the movements looking to the deveiopment of the coal and oil interests of Belmont County. For several years he was a member of the Uniontown Band, but has sev- of business and active in its promotion, but | | and destroyed all hope of grapes. In the followtakes little interest in political matters. Mr. Sharp is rather liberal in his religious views, but inclines to the body of United Brethren to which his good mother belonged. He is most highly esteemed in Wheeling township where his family has so long had an honorable record.

ISAAC NEWLAND, mayor of the city of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, justice of the peace, a Jeader in the contracting and building trade, and a progressive, public-spirited citizen, was born in Kirkwood, a suburb of Bridgeport, on December 29, 1841.

The parents of Mayor Newland were John K. and Jane M. (Sims) Newland, both of whom were born in New York and married in Wetzel County, (West) Virginia,.coming to Belmont County, Ohio, in 1837. Mr. Newland opened the first lumber yards in Belmont County, locating them in Bridgeport, and did an immense lumber business for many years all over the county, in which he became well known and relied upon. Mr. Newland's knowledge of lumber was complete and although he dealt in it individually, he also at times had partners, and one oí these was John Nelson, an old and esteemed resident. Mr. Newland was connected by bonds of friendship with such men as Ebenezer Zane and with the latter was interested in many progressive enterprises for the development of Belmont County. His death occurred in 1867, at the age of 66 years, a member of the Christian Church, in Wheeling. His widow passed away in 1881 at the age of 68 years, a woman of character and virtue, one who bravely endured the privations of pioneer life. !

'spring of 1857. Mr. Newland purchased farming land from Noah Zane, a son of Daniel, and here he made a'vineyard, having some 40 acres in grapes. This vineyard was rented by our subject and his brother from the father, and in the early spring of 1869 the vines ing year, however, this loss was made up, as during 1870 the family picked and sold 63 tons from the rested vines, at $100 a ton. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Newland were: William, Archimedes, A. D., Isaac, John K., Mary and Jennie.

The primary education of Mayor Newland was acquired in his native place, and later he entered the public school in Martin's Ferry. After finishing his education he began to farm and operate the vineyard and garden on the home place. From these rural and peaceful employments he was aroused by President Lincoln's call for troops, and in April, 1861, enlisted for a four-months' service. At its close the men were paid in full, and he received his pav in gold, at the old Rhodes Hotel, in Bridgeport. After a visit at home he re-enlisted, first entering Capt. Frank Buell's battery, but later was transferred to the 11th Ohio Cavalry, and his command was sent to fight the Indians in the Western territories. Prior to this he had participated in the battle of Cross Keys and other engagements, in West Virginia, and his later service consumed two and one-half years, making his full term four and two-third years. During his Western service the duty was principally to keep open the road for the Overland Mail to California. During his residence in these regions he met Buffalo Bill, whose name is well known in this and party that accompanied the Grand Duke Alexis when, during his visit to the United States, he shot buffalo through our Western lands. Mayor Newland assisted in taking about 700 Indian ponies on the Little Big Horn, near where the brave General Custer met death in 1876.. Later these ponies were sold, at Fort Laramie, by the government. During all his perilous service, our subject was never wounded or taken prisoner.

handsome residences in this vicinity testify to his skill as a builder. In May, 1900, Mayor Newland was elected justice of the peace, and the duties of this position made it necessary tor him to withdraw from other activity. Although he has been an interested Republican, he has never been a politician in the sense of an office seeker, and the office of mayor was given him by appreciative friends and fellow-citizens.

Mayor Newland returned from the army in August, 1866, and in the fall of the same year was married to Laura Moore, a native of this county, a daughter of James and Anna Moore, who came to Ohio from New York. Mr. Moore was a native of England, an old resident of Belmont County, and at one time owned a large woolen factory.

The five children born to Mayor Newland and wife were: Frank, who died at the age of 18 months; Hally B., a contractor in Martin's Ferry, who married a Miss Burney, has two children - John K., and Gene; Annie, who married Robert Harper, resides in Pittsburg and has one son - Richard ; Mary, who died at the age of one vear; and Margaret, who is a student in the High School.

Joseph McConnaughy was a native of Maryland and his birth dates back to October, 1801. In early manhood he located in Jefferson County, Ohio, and was employed for many years at Moore's Salt Works. In 1831 he came to Belmont County, but the following year returned to Jefferson County to escape the ravages of the cholera, which was quite prevalent in Bridgeport for several months. Returning, he engaged in the manufacture of brick and also became an expert bricklayer. He was a contractor and built many of the old time residences and edifices in the vicinity, among them the Methodist Episcopal Church at

Scott's. He also took contracts for excavating and road building and in that capacity worked upon the old National Road, furnishing stone, etc. He filled many large contracts tor hauling, for bridges, buildings, etc. He was a very prominent man in the community. He was one of the organizers of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Bridgeport, and was

He donated the lot upon which the church was built in the west end, which is in his first addition to the city. He also served as trüstee of his township during the war. His useful career was cut short by his death, January r9, 1887, when he was in his 86th year. He laid out his farm into city lots and in this way he made five additions to Bridgeport, covering a period of 52 years. His wife was a lite-long member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and she died in 1876, aged 76 years. Ten children were born to this worthy couple, namely, Mary, who married William Taylor; Elizabeth, who married Amos Davis; Milton, a resident of Kirkwood; Burget, the subject of this biography; Matilda, who married J.C. Duncan; James; Joseph; William: Martin Exa resident of Bridgeport; and Emma S., who married James Cochran. All are now deceased except our "subject, his brothers, Milton and Martin L., and his sister, Elizabeth.

Captain McConnaughy was educated in the public schools of the west end of Bridgeport and also attended a private subscription school. While still in his youth, he began teaming for his father, and at the early age of 17 hauled bacon, lard and tobacco over the old National Road across the mountains to Cumberland, Maryland, - a distance of 132 miles. From nine to ten days were required to make the trip each way, and he brought dry goods, etc., back with him. Five horses were used by our subject in making this trip, and his brother Milton, who did similar teaming, drove six horses.

November 21, 1848, when 20 years old, Captain McConnaughy was united in marriage with Elizabeth De Noon, a native of Belleville. Pennsylvania, and the only survivor of a large family. Her father was Elias D. De Noon.

One brother, William, served in the war for three years. Another brother, Benjamin, died in the State of New York. A sister, Tabitha, married Miles Hutchinson.

After his marriage Captain McConnaughy continued in the transfer business, also purchasing coal from his father, which he sold and delivered to his customers, and made a very fair income. In the fall of 1860, with his brother Joseph, he loaded coal into boats, intending to go to New Orleans. They started on September 12th, and upon reaching Louisville, Kentucky, the river suddenly fell and they were compelled to lay there until October. They then proceeded on their way together to Helena, Arkansas, where they separated, our subject taking one boat and his brother the other. At St. Joseph, Missouri, and Helena, Arkansas, they began selling coal by the barrel. As they neared New Orleans they exchanged coal for sugar and molasses, and upon reaching that city were compelled to sell out at half price. It was then January 8, 1861, and the climate was uncomfortably warm for Northerners in more ways than one. Hastily disposing of his cargo for what he could obtain, Captain Mc- Connaughy returned to Cairo, Illinois, his brother following three weeks later, - each a sadder and wiser man, having lost $600 apiece on the trip.

The Captain has a war record which is second to few in this section. He is a veteran who carried the gun and sword for more than five years and took part in many of the leading engagements. As a soldier of the Army of the Potomac, he made a record that all his descendants can point to with pride. June s. 1861, he enlisted as a private in Company A, 25th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., which was put in the 11th Army Corps just prior to the battle of Gettysburg. The first battle in which he took active part was at Green Brier, West Virginia. This was followed by the battles of Chancellorsville, Second Bull Run, and the great battle of Gettysburg. During the latter every commissioned officer in his company fell, with the exception of one, a second lieutenant. In all, our subject took part in more than 20 skirmishes. January 1, 1863, he re-enlisted in South Carolina, and then went home on a 30 days' furlough, returning at its close to Hilton Head, where he was stationed for six months. November 31, 1864, during an engagement at Honey Hill, South Carolina, he was severely but not dangerously wounded in the thigh. Captain McConnaughy served five years and thirteen days and did not receive his discharge until June 18, 1866, over a year after the surrender of Lee. Enlisting as a private, he was soon made corporal and two years later was promoted to sergeant. Promotion again followed and he became second lieutenant, serving as such, however, only one day, and that at Gettysburg. From first lieutenant he was made captain of Company G, 25th Regiment, Ohio Vol. Inf., and as such received honorable discharge.

Captain and Mrs. McConnaughy have reared four children, two sons and two daughters, and have lost two, Dorcas and William. Those living are Joseph, Emma, Elias, and Anna. Joseph has been twice married. His first union was with Mary Birdsall and his second with Mrs. Sarah Radcliff. He has three children, Charles, Harry, and Lottie, and has lost four. Emma has also been twice married. Her first marriage was contracted with Robert McCullough and one child, Burt, who still survives, was the issue. She is now the wife of William Williams. Elias married Jennie Nichols, and they have seven children. Anna, who is the present Mrs. John Oxentine, was first wedded to George Shafer, by whom she had one son, Edward.

Captain McConnaughy is a valued member of Branum Post, G. A. R., and is now serving as senior vice-commander. He was quartermaster of the same for four years. Before the war he served one term in the City Council. Since the war he has served as trustee of Pease township for 13 successive years. He was elected a member of the School Board and has served 19 years, and his service in that capacity has proved most beneficial. He is on the committee for repairs, painting and building.

The Captain has also been director of the Belmont County Infirmary for four years, filling one long term and one short term. He has been presiding judge in the Second Ward ever since the Australian ballot system has been in use, and is filling that position at the present time. Some time since he was elected president of the Home Building & Loan Association, and served as such for nine consecutive years. That organization has recently squared up all accounts and has gone out of existence, Religiously, our subject is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. November ro, 1872, he was made a trustee and subsequently became steward. Politically, he is an ardent Republican. However, he did not vote for President Lincoln when he was first elected President on account of being away from home, being at that time in Louisville. In 1864 he made his vote count, being then at Folly Island, South Carolina, when he served as judge of election. He was with Capt.

Upon his return from the war, Captain Mc- Connaughy purchased 25 acres of land, upon which he opened a coal mine in the following August. By October seven men were at work in the mine, which goes to prove the hustling qualities of our subject. For 16 years this mine was successfully operated, and at the close of that time the land was sold at the same price as the purchase money, having yielded its owner a fair income for all those years and returning him the original sum of investment.

JAMES W. WISE, senior member of the basket manufacturing firm of Wise & Dewees, of Barnesville, Ohio, proprietors of the extensive industry known as the Barlow Basket Company, is one of the city's most progressive business men.

years of age. The subject of this sketch was born in the vicinity of Bellaire, Ohio, on his father's farm, August 25, 1871, and is a son of John A. and Mary (Williams) Wise. John A. Wise is well known as a skilled and successful gardener.

James W. Wise attended the common schools in his vicinity, and for a number of years was connected with the canning industry. He acted as manager of a large canning establishment in Barnesville for a considerable period, and is now working in the same capacity with the E. C. Flains Company, which purchased the canning plant. In 18098 he accepted a similar position in an extensive establishment in Carthage, Indiana, where he remained one year. His business ability made him desire to enter into an industrial line of his own, and this he was enabled to do by the purchase of a half interest in the Barlow Basket Company. This is the only concern of its kind in Barnesville, and is equipped for the manufacture of fruit and vegetable baskets, packages and crates of 30 different styles. The company ships its products extensively to Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. It has a capacity of 20,000 baskets daily, and employs during the busy season about 35 Hands. The receipts aggregate from $7,000 to $8,000 annually, and the plant covers a space of half an acre, being valued at $6,000.

Mr. Wise was married in December, 1800, to Inez Barlow, a daushter of Amos Barlow, a prominent business man of Barnesville, who established the basket company in 1887, under the style of A. Barlow & Son. The elder Barlow withdrew from the company in 1899. Mr. Wise succeeded him in the concern, his partner being W. H. Barlow, and the business was thus conducted until 1902, when Mr. Barlow sold his interest to Samuel Dewees, and the enterprise became known as the Barlow Basket Company.

In politics Mr. Wise is identified with the Republican party. He and his wife are valued members of the Methodist Church. His ability as a business man has been in evidence since ket Company, and not only his products but his methods have marked him as worthy of the esteem of the community and the confidence of the trade.

SAMUEL A. CLEMENS, who is a leading business man of Bridgeport, Ohio, operating one of the most complete grocery stores in the city, and who is also a most highly esteemed citizen, was born in Belmont County, January 29, 1830, a son of Augustus and Ann (Carnahan) Clemens, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania.

Augustus Clemens was a ship carpenter by trade and this occupation he followed through life. After locating in Ohio he engaged in the building of boats for the Ohio River trade, many of these being for the transportation of coal. He died in 1852, at Bridgeport, of the cholera, which at that time was epidemic. Many of the people had fled and it was most difficult to procure help to decently dispose of the dead. He consented to prepare one Bloomfield for burial, and two hours later succumbed to the dread malady himself. He was known as a most worthy, kind-hearted man, one who was always ready to extend assistance, 'and his death was doubly sad on this account and because it left his wife and three children practically without means of livelihood.

The mother of our subject was one of those noble, courageous women whose lives of self-denial and devotion command the reverent attention of all who learn of them. She was born on January 23, 1803, and was a daughter of Robert and Ann Carnahan, who were natives of Ireland. They came to America and settled in youth in the State of Pennsylvania, were married there and reared a family of seven children, among whom were: Thomas, John, Margaret, now Mrs. John Bailey, Mary, but eight weeks old, and by her good management, thrift and care, reared them to respectable maturity, receiving no assistance from friends or relatives. Very often in those early years it taxed her heavily to provide for and to educate her little flock, but she managed to do it and is remembered with grateful affection by these children. Our subject was the second member of the family and had two sisters, one of these, Jane, is the wife of Hon. David Wagner of West Wheeling, now retired, formerly an ex-State Senator; the other, Cornelia L., was Mrs. D. B. Kirk, who died in 1892.

Our subject was "the only son of his mother," and she being a widow, he early began his efforts to contribute to the support of the family, entering an establishment to learn the carpet trade as soon as he completed a course in a private school. This trade, however, he never followed, later beginning work in a paper mill on the Wheeling side of the river. There our subject spent 30 years of his life, an expert in the business and was known as a finisher. When Dr. Todd became postmaster of Bridgeport, during the administration of President Grant, he looked about for a reliable man for his assistant and selected for the position Samuel A. Clemens, and three years were passed in that office. After the close of his official life, Mr. Clemens went to work in a planing mill known as Baggs' mill, and remained there over five years, and during that whole period lost but five and one-half days. Here he was engaged in making boxes for use in the glass houses. Changing his business at that time, our subject then bought out the grocery store of James Clark, which was then . located on the present site of Dent's drug store. Three months later he purchased the new wellappointed grocery store which he now occupies, and since that time has steadily enlarged and expanded his business until he now leads in the grocery line. E

When President Lincoln made his call for 75,000 men in 1861, our subject was one who lovally responded. He gave four years of service to the government, in the quartermaster's department under Col. H. C. Ransom, in West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama. At first Mr. Clemens was engaged as a teamster, at $20 a month, but Colonel Ransom was a very good friend to him and was a classmate of General Grant. The Colonel was glad to have a quiet, industrious, reliable man. with a good record about him, and instead of giving our subject a team he put him at other work requiring ability and when the war closed the latter was drawing and earning a salary of S80 a month. During the campaign in Kentucky he was wagon-master and had charge of the teams of General Granger's command and these teams through all the dangers and dis- ` advantages incident to storms, bad roads and marauding parties, succeeded in getting provisions to the soldiers, a very necessary part of the great game of war.

The marriage of Judge Clemens, for he has long served as a most efficient justice of the peace, being now in his fourth term, took place December 26, 1854, to Catherine Loe, a native of Belmont County. To this marriage these children were born: Ella B., who married Milton B. Morgan, and has two children, Earl and Milton; and Harry A., who is his father's efficient clerk. The mother of these children died February 23,, 1862, aged 33 years, while

The second marriage of our subject took place on October 15, 1865, to Mary E. Hornage, a native of Belmont County, a daughter of George Hornage. No children of this marriage survive. She was born February ro, 1837, and died February 10, 1899, a good Christian woman, and a consistent member of the Methodist Church. The only members of is one of the trustees of the Methodist Church and has filled many positions on its official board. Fraternally, Mr. Clemens is a blue lodge Mason, and politically he supports the Republican party. His long residence has made him familiar to almost every one in Bridgeport, and it is a testimonial to his worth that he is held in such general esteem.

ANDREW JAMES NEFF, who owns several fine farms in Belmont County, Ohio, resides upon the home farm in section 17, Pultney township, where his birth took place in 1850. His life has practically been spent upon that place. This farm contains 214 acres, is finely improved with handsome residence, substantial barns, granaries, etc. The house itself was built by Mr. Neff's father in 1842, but many of the improvements have been added by our subject. In addition, our subject owns a 137-acre farm in the valley south, and a 120- acre tract in Mead township, in all about 500 acres. Most of this land is under lease, but the home farm is operated by Mr. Neff, who makes a specialty of raising fine fruits, especially peaches. Some attention is also paid to stock raising and a glimpse into his stock pens and pastures reveals the presence of some choice breeds.

Andrew J. Neff is a son of Andrew, Sr., and Jane (Alexander) Neff. His mother was a daughter of Robert Alexander, one of the pioneer settlers of Belmont County. He was a blacksmith by trade and was an expert workman in that line, conducting for many years a shop near St. Clairsville Junction. He purchased a farm in that-vicinity, and cleared múch of the land himself. Subject's father also followed agricultural pursuits and further mention is made of his life in the more complete history of the Neff family given in He had three sons, John W., a resident of Richland township: Alexander, of Pultney township, and Andrew James, the subject of this narrative.

rious branches, and success has met his efforts. He is the proud possessor of the ancestral homestead, which he obtained by purchasing the interest of the other heirs. His marriage with Mary A. Brannen, a daughter of Joseph and Harriet (Shahan) Brannen, of Pultney township, has resulted in four children. of these died young, - one an iníant yet unnamed, and the other, Charles A., who was surviving children are Herbert B. and Hazel J. The former is attending commercial college in Bellaire and the latter is a student in the St. Clairsville schools. Mrs. Neff's parents were among the early settlers in Pultney township and are still highly esteemed residents of that community.

In politics Mr. Neff is a fool advocate of the Democratic party. He takes a: becoming interest in both national and municipal issues. Heis largely concerned in various business organizations in his section and at the present time is serving in an official capacity for several. He stands well in social and religious circles, being an active member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church.

James -Mitchelt Blackford. Um

JAMES -MITCHELT BLACKFORD. UM: D. Among the prominent men of Martin's Ferry, Ohio, who stand high in professional and social life, is Dr. James Mitchell Blackford, who was born in Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, on January 24, 1837, a son of Joseph and Isabella (Latimer) Blackford.

Joseph Blackford was a son of Robert Blackford who served as a soldier in the War of 1812 and whose wife was given a pension after his death, in 1832, in this county, of Asiatic cholera. Joseph Blackford settled on his farm which he purchased in 1832, and lived there until his death, which occurred on February 29. 1880, when over 82 years of age, his birth having taken place in Ohio County, (W est)

Virginia, in 1797. He was a leading man in his township and most prominent in the Presbyterian Church, a charter member of the church in Martin's Ferry, having previously been an elder in the church at Mount Pleasant in Jefferson County. For 35 years he was an elder in the Martin's Ferry church and one of its most substantial members and strong supporters. Mr. Blackford was for many years a stanch Democrat, but his attitude in regard to temperance laws made him an early member of the Prohibition party. His farming was carried on in the days when the rule of the neighborhood in which he lived, was to supply his assistants during the heavy summer ' work with intoxicants; he, however, after noting the effect would not observe the custom and took a firm stand against it. In this he was seconded by his friend and neighbor, Joshua Steele, a worthy Quaker, and they were the first men to succeed in having their harvesting done without the dispensation of whisky. It was probably due to the high personal character of these two men that so little trouble arose when they thus dared custom and public opinion, but they succeeded by their firmness in checking a growing evil, and finally turning the tide in favor of temperance. A brother of Joseph Blackford, Robert by name, located on a farm in Pease township in 1841, and lived a quiet, unassuming life, was known as an excellent blacksmith and as an exemplary citizen. He died in 1891, at the age of 79 years. His son Josiah. fell into the hands of the enemy at the battle of Chickamauga and his a was never learned.

The mother of our subject was a daagh? of William Latimer and was-born in 1805, the youngest of a family of eight children, all of whom have passed away. In 1800 William Latimer came with John W iley, from Pennsylvania, and settled on adjoining sections of land in Belmont County on what is now known as the Colerain Pike. One son of Mr. Latimer named William was killed in the War of 1812. Mrs. Blackford died at the age of 66 years. She was long a member of the Presbyterian A family of six sons was born to

Joseph Blackford and wife, namely: William H.. deceased, who farmed the old homestead, died Sept. r4, 1902, aged 75; Rev. Alexander Latimer, D. D., who for 30 years was a missionary in Brazil, died during a visit to the United States in 1890 of yellow fever at Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 62 years; Rev. Robert Allen. who was a minister for 13 years at Clarksburg, West Virginia, and died in 1896; Rev. John H., a Presbyterian minister for many vears, and has been stationed since 1897, at Slatelick, Pennsylvania; Dr. James Mitchell, who is the subject of this biography ; and Joseph Anderson, who died at the age of eight years. All of these sons that grew to maturity have become prominent in professional life, testifying in the strongest degree the tendency given by early moral surroundings.

Dr. Blackford acquired his literary education at Miller Academy, and later pursued a higher course at Vermilion Institute. His preceptor in medicine was that eminent physician, Dr. John Campbell, of Uniontown, Ohio, of whom Dr. John Cook, formerly of Bridgeport, was also a pupil. Dr. Blacktord still further pursued his studies at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, and completed his course at Starling Medical College, at Columbus, in 1865. He began practice at Morristown, Ohio, removing in 1873 to Martin's Ferry, thus being the second oldest practitioner in this city, being preceded by Dr. Williams. Dr. Blackford has always held a large practice, ' his learning and skill making him prominent through the county and a very valued member of the Belmont County Medical Society, of which he has served as president. He is a ready writer as well as deep thinker and his contributions to medical journals have been regarded as worthy of extended notice and discussion. He has been the medical examiner for insurance companies and has been health officer a number of times. No more judicious selection could be made on the School Board than Dr. Blackford, as his interests have always been engaged in the cause of education, and he has served for six years. While Dr. Blackford is a close student and careful observer in his own profession, and an interested promoter of civic progress, he takes no active part in politics, being only concerned that the most capable men be elected.

On January 16, 1866, Dr: Blackford was married to Catherine Reid, who was born in Ireland, coming to the United States at the age often years. She is one of ten living children and the eldest born to her parents.

The four children born to Dr. and Mrs. Blackford were: Robert A., Mary R., Joseph E. and John Latimer, the last named dying at the age of five years. Robert A. graduated from Washington and Jefferson College, in 1889 and from the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania in the class of 1899. also from Washington College in 1899, then taught two years in the grammar schools of Martin's Ferry and for three years was principal of the High School, served for two years as physician of an insane asylum, at Warren, Pennsylvania, and one year at the hospital at Pottstown, in the same State, and is now permanently located in practice with our subject. Joseph E. has been for the past 10 years the Martin's Ferry correspondent of the W heeling News; he married Anna Bell Hobbs and their two childrén were named Edward, who died at the age of five years, and Kathryne. Mr. Blackford is regarded as a rising man in the newspaper profession.

Dr. Blackford is an elder in the United Presbyterian'Church and his two oldest children are also members. The family is one of the most highly regarded in the social circles of Martin's Ferry and its head enjoys universal esteem. i

Rev. Father Joseph A. Weigand

REV. FATHER JOSEPH A. WEIGAND, pastor of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was born in Baden, Germany. June 8, 1866. His parents were Felix and Genevieve (Schmidt) Weigand, the former of whom was an extensive farmer, a man of general knowledge and one whose influence was directed continually to enterprises tor the

July 7, 1895, from an attack of "la grippe," this being the first sickness he ever had. The mother of Father Weigand died when he was a small child.

Preparatory study is very thorough in Germany and this foundation results in that country's producing the most scholarly men of the times. After this preparation, Father Weigand entered the gymnasium at Tauber-Bischofsheim, where he took a course of study requiring attendance for three years, and then came to America. He was but 12 years of age when he entered St. Vincent College, completing there his classical training, and then entered St. Mary's Seminary, at Baltimore, Maryland, where he completed his theological course and was there ordained by that distinguished dignitary of the Church, Cardinal Gibbons. Father Weigand was but 23 years of age, the - youngest of a class of 53, and carried off the highest honors, and received the books, premiums and medals. His first work was assigned him under Father White, at the Cathedral at Columbus, Ohio, but within six months he was appointed to the Bridgeport pastorate, taking charge January, 1900. Father Roderick McEachen, a native of Shawnee, Ohio, who was ordained August 10, 1901, by Bishop Moeller, in Columbus. Father Mc- Eachen studied theology at Inspruck, Austria, and was appointed here in September, 1901. Father McEachen returned to Europe in the fall of 1902, in order to take a special course in the Sclavonic languages, for the purpose of fitting himself for work among the Slavonic people in the Columbus diocese. St. Anthony has a congregation of 100 families, aside from a great number of single communicants who find a home in Bridgeport. This is an unusual showing for a town of its size. No less than 12 nationalities are represented in the congregation. The day school is in charge of the

Sisters of Charity, of Nazareth, Kentucky, and the attendance varies from 100 to 150. Excellent advantages are afforded the pupils and a course of study is followed as prescribed for the State and public schools.

Father Weigand has still another school under his charge, conducted by the same Sisters, located at Maynard, a mining district, the pupils being about 75 Slavonic children. At that point the school has been in existence for

four years and soon a fine school building will be erected. Father Weigand is filled with the zeal of the early Fathers, and his success in pioneer fields 1s worthy of all commendation. The great truths of his teaching have changed a mass of ignorant, neglected people into self-respecting, law-abiding citizens, and his work is heartily commended by all residents of Bridgeport, entirely irrespective of doctrinal belief. Personally he 1s both beloved and esteemed.

CHARLES FOWLER, a well-known contractor and farmer oí Barnesville, Ohio, was born February 12, 1852, a son of Samuel and Eliza (Groves) Fowler, the former of whom was a native of Maryland, became a skilled mechanic, and for a number of years superintended the gravel trains on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in Barnesville. His death took place here early in the "seventies," and his widow passed away in 1898.

Charles Fowler was one of a family of seven children, all of whom were reared to be industrious and were afforded good, common school educations. When about 21 years of age, our subject learned the carpenter trade, and his close application and thorough work soon brought him promotion and enabled him to enter upon contracting and building on a large scale. He also owns a farm in the vicinity of Barnesville, where he demonstrates

On September: 20, 1879, Mr. Fowler was married to Hulda Greeneltch, a daughter of one of the highly respected families of Monroe County. She is a lady of great capacity and has shown her business ability by her successful management of the Fowler Hotel, which she conducted from the spring of 1899 and finally purchased. Under her management the hotel is not only a financial success, but it is also one of the best regulated hostelries of the city.

MRS. J. (KIRKWOOD) MITCHELL, so highly esteemed and beloved by the people of Kirkwood, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in . that town and ranks among the oldest residents. She is a daughter of Joseph and Margaret ( Gillespie) Kirkwood, granddaughter of Robert Kirkwood, and was born September t5, 1827.

Our subject's paternal grandfather, Robert Kirkwood, was deeply interested in his studies for the ministry when the Revolutionary War broke out. He immediately dropped "Euclid" and shouldering his musket marched to the service of his country. He started as captain, raised a company in Newark, Delaware, his native State, and afterward served as an officer of high rank under the illustrious Washington. His two children, one daughter and one son, were: Joseph, the father of our subject; and Mrs. Whitely, who after her first husband's demise married Mr. Boyer, - she had two children, Robert H. and Mary A. by her first marriage, and her children of the second marriage are now deceased. Robert Kirkwood died at the age of seventy-two vears.

Joseph Kirkwood was born March 25, 1784, and chose for his wife Margaret Gillespie, who was born July 6, 1785. Both were natives of Newark. Delaware. and both attended the same schools there when children. During his early youth, Mr. Kirkwood worked as bookkeeper in his uncle's store in Newark, but after his marriage crossed the Alleghanies on horseback and arrived in Belmont County, Ohio, during the early part of the last century. He settled in Canton (now Bridgeport), and immediately turned his attention to farming and there remained until his death, June 9, 1856. In 1812 he served in the war but would not receive a pension or warrant for his services. He and his beloved wife had a family of 10 children: Hannah M. (Mrs. James McCune), born in 1807 and died 1849; Sarah (Mrs. Joseph Large); Robert, born in 1810, and died in 1811; Ann S. who was born February 28, I812, married David Allen, and is now deceased; Adeline, who married Dr. Henry West and died July 8, 1854; Mary, born in 1817, and died in 1838; Elizabeth, born February s, 1818, and died in the "nineties"; Catherine S., born August 24, 1820, married Dr. James McConahey, and died in the "eighties"; Margaret A., born May 27, 1823, is now a resident of Kirkwood, the widow of Rev. James Alexander of. the Presbyterian Church; and Mrs. Mitchell, our subject, who is the youngest in the family and who, with Mrs. Margaret A. Alexander, is the only living member of the once large family. Mrs. Joseph Kirkwood's death took place at the advanced age of 84 years, February 14, 1866. She wasa life-long member of the Presbyterian Church, and a pioneer with her husband, both knowing well the hardships, dangers, deprivations, and difficulties of early Ohio pioneer life.

Mrs. Mitchell is the widow of Vincent Mitchell, who was a native of Mount Pleasant, Jefferson County, Ohio, where he was profitably engaged in mercantile business until 1849, when he removed to Kirkwood. He and our subject were united in matrimony, March 14, 1850, and their union was blessed with eight children, as follows: Margaret A.: William V.; Rockwell B.; Ada and Lee, who died young; Clara E. and Carrie E., twins; and Walter Margaret A. is the wife of Rev. Shields M. Macurdy, one of the leading men of the Pittsburg Conference, highly respected by all and a charming singer. They have six children; Josephine, Vincent, S. W., Britton, Elder, and Errat. William V. is as yet unmarried and resides at home, as does also Rockwell B., the latter having served several terms as mayor of Bridgeport, 'of which Kirkwood is a part. Clara E., one of the twins, is now Mrs. D. Myers of Wheeling Island; her twin sister, Carrie E. (Mrs. George Robinson), also of Wheeling Island, is now deceased, having left

Vincent Mitchell died at the age of 77 years, October 25, 1881. He was a life-long member of the Presbyterian Church, and Mrs. Mitchell has been a member since her 16th year. In politics, he was a Democrat, glad to be of service to his party whenever it was possible. Before his marriage with our subject, Mr. Mitchell was united in marriage October 11, 1830, with Susanna Hogg, who died October 19, 1845, leaving three children, Miriam, R. Jane, and John J. Miriam Mitchell was the wife of R. B. Boyd, and died at the age of 40 years. R. Jane Mitchell resides with her step-mother, the subject of this biography. John J. Mitchell married Margaret Guyton, but is now deceased, having left seven children to mourn his loss, namely: Myrtle E., Harry, Alonzo L., Alma, Ollie, Rose E., and Lulu G.

Lindley P Bailey

LINDLEY P BAILEY. ests are important ones in Belmont County, Ohio, where natural conditions are so favorable to success, and intelligent operators engage in the industry. Dairies and creameries are found in every township, but very few of them reach the high standard demanded by the critical and fastidious public. The Belmont Stock Farm Dairy fulfills every condition and 5 owned and operated by Lindley P: Bailey, prominent dairyman, who is also well reni as a breeder of fine, Jersey cattle, and who is the able president of the Ohio Dairymen' s Association.

Jesse Bailey was also born in Belmont County, a son of Jesse, who was a native of North Carolina. The Bailey family has been noted for its agricultural success and its members have belonged to Belmont County's best class of citizens. Jesse Bailey spent his whole life as a farmer and reaped ample results from his excellent methods and intelligent management. In the country schools of his locality, Mr. Bailey was given his elementary education, which was supplemented by attendance at the Friends' Boarding School, at Mt. Pleasant, Ohio. After seven years devoted to teaching, during which time he gave much intelligent attention to agricultural matters, Mr. Bailey decided to follow the family vocation and become a farmer. After making a successful trial on rented land, he went into debt for a tract of 66 acres of good land, gave it close attention, put into practice modern methods, and prospered from the very first, gradually adding to his possessions until he now owns 240 acres of choice Belmont County land, with excellent imvive.

In 1881 Mr. Bailey made his first experiment with Jersey cattle, trading a threshing machine - for his first herd, and has succeeded far beyond the average, although he has met with some reverses, as is the case in almost every kind of business, in 1885, losing about $3,000 in In 1888 he erected. his present creamery, at a cost of $1,000, and this estab _ lishment has gained a wide reputation for the quality of its products, manufactured under the careful eve of its owner, with the assistance of one expert and four helpers. Between 60 and 7o head of cows contribute the milk supply. Believing in the advantages that accrue from concentration of effort, Mr. Bailey has devoted most of his energies, in the past 20 years, to the development and improvement of Jersey cattle and to securing excellence in daity products, and it is his opinion that the future of satisfactory dairving lies entirely in intelligent education in this line. He would have this improvement begin in the stable and con- tinue until the finished product is served to the public, and believes that then and only then, will the public know the perfection which may be attained. Most necessary adjuncts are cleanliness, intelligence and honesty, in combination with the modern machinery which must be in use wherever quality is a necessity to success. In his own establishment, Mr. Bailey has spared no expense, has placed expensive machines with skilled labor, and the patrons of the Belmont Stock Farm Dairy may teel assured that its milk has been Pasteurized 'and rendered wholly healthful and of the finest Havor. Mr. Bailey obtains a large supply of his milk from his own carefully tended herd and those of his neighbors who comply with the sanitary requirements demanded, and care and feed their cows as science has determined will produce healthful milk. The large product of this creamery, during the winter season, all goes to the McJunkin Straight Dairy Co., of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, who are extensive retailers, supplying the leading families of that city.

Mr. Bailey has been so prominently identified with the dairy interests of Ohio, that scarcely any leading organization or journal has failed to give him credit. Prior to becoming president of the Ohio Dairymen's Association, he served as secretary and treasurer for a long period, and in 1898 was made special dairy inspector of the State under J. E. Blackburn and Governor Bushnell. In 1893 he was made a director in the American Jersey Cattle Club, few men in the county or State having a more complete and exhaustive knowledge of Jersey cattle. In 1896 Mr. Bailey held his last annual sale of Jersey cattle, this being the ninth occasion. The Belmont Stock Farm is located one and one-half miles from Barnesville, on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and these sales were always largely attended, dealers realizing that here could be obtained superior cattle, and having every assurance that only honest methods would be employed in their disposal. It has been our subject's aim to produce a

In July, 1871, Mr. Bailey was united in marriage with Elizabeth Stanton, daughter of Joseph Stanton, of Belmont County, and six children were born to this union, namely: Edwin M., Oscar J., Anna M., Alva C., Clara and Jesse S. Edwin M. married Lillian Doudna, a daughter of J. W. Doudna, and operates. a modern creamery at Pittsburg. Oscar J. married Mary A. Bracken, daughter of Lindley Bracken, of Belmont County, and conducts a creamery business in Wheeling, West Virginia. Anna M. married Clarence Patton, of Iowa. Alva C. married Laura Steer, a daughter of Nathan Steer and in association with his father conducts a dairy business at Spencer.

his sons in their choice of career, when the choice was made, he assisted them in thoroughly perfecting themselves in the details of the business, sending two of them to the dairy school conducted at Madison, Wisconsin, and the third to a similar school in Ohio. The family belongs to the Society of Friends, and all its members are thoroughly respected members of the community. In political association, Mr. Bailey is a Republican, but has never consented to accept any office except that of school director, although particularly well fitted to discharge the duties of almost any office. His large business enterprises and his absorption in his business, whereby he has attained such success, have precluded activity in other lines.

LIEUT. JOHN F. SMITH, a retired farmer and most highly-esteemed citizen of Bridgeport, Ohio, was born in Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, on October 4, 1830, a son of Tames M. and Mary (Berry) Smith, the latter of whom was a native of Loudoun County Virginia.

James M. Smith, the father, was also born in Loudoun County and by trade was a cooper. About 1815 or 1816 he decided to move +o Ohio where he believed there would be more demand for his goods, and with wife and three children, a wagon load of household belongings, with $50 in his pocket and two strong horses, set out for the new home, reaching St. Clairsville, Ohio, in the course of time, tired doubtless and homesick for the old surroundings. However, the father and mother of our subject possessed the true pioneer spirit, and soon after located at Glenn's Run, where Mr. Smith was engaged to make the flour barrels for the mills at that place, under the management of William McWilliams. Buying 20 acres Of land, Mr. Smith began a little farming which was fairly successful, but later became engaged in the boat-building business, an enterprise which rewarded him well. The boats he constructed were known as "broad horns," and were built for the purpose" of taking produce down the Ohio River, Mr. Smith receiving fifty cents per barrel for making the trip. It was his custom to build .two boats every year, one filled with coal, the other with produce, run them down the river to New Orleans and there trade boat and all for molasses and sugar which he would bring back on a steamboat to Wheeling. Several occasions occurred when he and his boys made the return trip from Louisville on the ice. On his last trip, Mr. Smith received some very choice sugar of the loaf variety and with this he entered into negotiations with Governor Shannon, by which the latter took the sugar in part pavment for 66 acres of land, this being now owned by the subject of this sketch. Governor Shannon had bought this land from an heir in Ireland, who had inherited it in the division of an uncle's estate, but this heir never came to America and the original owners do not possess any of the large property, our subject owning 150 acres of it and his sister, Mrs. Amanda Brown, another 150 acres. James M. Smith, or more properly, Colonel Smith, as he was locally known, served in the War of 1812 and received for this service a land warrant in Missouri upon which^his son settled. He was made colonel of the county militia and thus acquired his title. For many years he served as a justice of the peace and his influence was great with litigants, settling many difficulties without costs or trouble. James M. Smith was born in 1817 and died in 1873. He was a Mason and loved the workings of that body. He is still recalled as one of the useful citizens, a good man, a kind neighbor and a firm friend.

No less estimable a character was our subject's worthy mother. She was some 18 months younger than her husband and filled every situation in life with the affection, selí-sacrifice and cheerfulness of a lovely, Christian nature. Her many acts of kindness afford pleasant memories to this day. She was the beloved mother of 12 children, the three survivors of this large family being: John F., who is tHe subject of this sketch, being the youngest of all; Thomas, who is a merchant, resides at Burlington, in Belmont County; and Allen, who lived for a time in this county, later moved to Missouri, and is now a resident of Colorado. One other member of the family was our subjects sister Amanda, who married Hezekiah Brown in Belmont County, but died a widow, in Tennessee, when nearly 70 years of age.

Our subject had poor school advantages, but both his father and mother were far above the average in intelligence and his home training His early years were spent in farming and in driving a team, hauling produce through the town and country and hauling the materials for boat-building. The boating enterprise covered a period of 20 years and he was actively engaged in assisting his parent in this business, although his principal business from youth has been farming. Mr. Smith owns a farm of 140 acres which a geologic survey has demonstrated to be underlaid with coal. In time this may prove a large fortune for our subject.

Although a zealous and influential Republican, Lieutenant Smith has never sought office. His title was honorably obtained during the Civil War, when he belonged to Company G, 170th Regiment, Ohio National Guard, an organization which did faithful garrison duty, and on July 4, 1864, was hastened to the front, heing ordered from Washington City to Harpers Ferry. During the succeeding four months, the regiment was continually engaged in skirmishing between Harper's Ferry and Cedar Creek. When the regiment was honorably discharged and its members mustered out, at Columbus, our subject had a good record, but had escaped either wound or imprisonment, although, as he humorously expresses it, he on ` one occasion did some "tall running" to escape. Mr. Smith was married on January 3, 1861, to Theresa M. Miller, a native of Wheeling, West Virginia, and a daughter of David and Elizabeth ( Whitaker) Miller, who were natives of Germany. Our subject is a valued member of the Grand Army ot the Republic, and is a man who stands well in his community. His genial, pleasant manner makes him popular and among those who know him best, he is prized most highly as friend and comrade.

HON. JAMES A. WHITE, the popular and efficient mayor of the city of Barnesville, Ohio, is one of the leading and representative young men of the city, with whose civic affairs he has been identified since 1898.

Mayor James A. White is an Ohio product. He was born in Muskingum County, October 13, 1872, and is one of a family of five children born to Alexander and Christina ( Hammond) White, both of whom were also natives of Ohio. Alexander White followed agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1890. His widow still survives him, and finds a congenial home with her son, James A.

A good, common-school education was afforded James A. White in his boyhood, but his knowledge ot the higher branches was acquired by his own efforts, in the evenings, after the finishing of his day's work in the planing mill, where he continued for 18 months. He attended Mount Union College for one year, and later matriculated in Muskingum College, from which he graduated with the class of 1898. For some time he was engaged in teaching, and followed this profession with much | that capacity until 1897. In 1898, he was elected mayor of this city, on the Citizens' ticket, and so excellent was his municipal rule that in 1900 he was re-elected on the Republican ticket. This was certainly a personal triumph, and it was made more notable by a second re-election in 1902. At each election, he was also made a justice of the peace. His able administration has won him the confidence of all factions, and there are few men in public lite who are so universally and justly popular.

Mr. White is a prominent citizen, outside of politics. His interest in the growth and development of the city in every way is continued and earnest. He has served on the School Board, has been one of the county executive officers, and has exerted his influence in favor of every laudable enterprise. He is a Mason, a Knight of Pythias, and also belongs to the Jr. O. U. A. M. For a number of years, he has been connected with the Methodist Church, and is active in assisting in its benevolent work. He has been a Sunday-chool teacher for several years, and is now serving as president of the Epworth League. He wäs a member of the Methodist Episcopal Conference held at Chicago, Illinois, in May, 1900, having been selected as one of six from the East Ohio Conference: ae

ROBERT GIFFIN, an esteemed resident of Bridgeport, Ohio, is a representative of one of the oldest and most favorably known families in Belmont County. For many years he has followed the trade of brick-laying and is generally acknowledged to be the most reliable worker in that line to be found in the county. In addition to this it may be truthfully remarked that Mr. Giffin has an honorable record as a soldier of the Civil War to which both he and his fellow-citizens may point with pride.

The birth of Robert Giffin occurred on July O, 1836, in Belmont County, Ohio, a son of Robert and Sarah (Hinkel) Giffin, both of whom were also natives of this county. The father of our subject was a carpenter and con- tial barns which indicate so well, through the county, the substantial standing of the farmer. His religion was that of the Presbyterian Church, belonging first to the Covenanters' and later to the United Presbyterian Church. He died in 1866. His widow survived to the age of 87 years. The Giffin family, as noted, is an old one in Belmont County, founded by George Giffin, our subject's grandfather. The father of George was one of the first settlers at Roney's Point, (West) Virginia, and there George married Mary Milligan, and they County in the latter part of the 18th century. The grandíather died about 1840. Both he and wife belonged to the old Covenanters' Church and he contributed the land on which to erect the High Ridge Church edifice, where is located High Ridge Cemetery. George Giffin was an extensive farmer and owned much land, giving:a farm to each of his five boys and three girls, all of whom have passed off the stage of life. ;

Robert Giffin of this sketch is one of a family of 13 children born to his parents, all of whom are living in Belmont County with the exception oí: Mary, who died at the age of 15 months; Daniel, who died unmarried in 1855, in Illinois; and Susan, Mrs. McFarland, who died in Oregon. A good, common-school education was afforded our subject and he grew to young manhood assisting his father on the farm, continuing to be thus employed until the day of his enlistment for service in the Civil War, September 17, 1861. On October 14, 1861, he was mustered into Company A, 43rd Ohio Vol. Inf. as a private and his first meeting with the enemy was in General , Pope's army, at the battle of New Madrid, Missouri, participating then in all the battles of his command, - Island No. 10, Fort Pillow, Corinth, both siege and battle, and, then taking part 1n the marches and skirmishes of Sherman's army after his re-enlistment, on Decem- | the siege of Atlanta, the latter being understood by those who endured it as a period of 120 days under fire. To fully understand, the younger generation must listen tó the thrilling story as it is related by one of the surviving heroes, and sluggish indeed will burn the fires of patriotism if it does not thrill the heart and kindle anew the respect with which the Civil War veterans should be regarded. After the close of the Atlanta campaign came the march to the sea, thence into South Carolina, then to her northern sister and then came the happy day when Johnston surrendered to the gallant army of General Sherman. Mr. Giffin was permitted to also participate in the grand review at Washington City, an occasion which will never be forgotten by the brave soldier who was one of the honored ones of the occasion. On July 13, 1865, he was mustered out of the service at Louisville, Kentucky, having served three years and nine months. During this long period he was never wounded or taken prisoner and endured the exposure very well after the first year. At the siege of Corinth on May 26, 1862, he was rprostrated by a sunstroke which rendered him insensible until the following day, but this was his most serious accident. After he had done his duty to his country, our subject quietly returned to his home and took.up his trade, and has followed brick-laying ever since. For some 25 years this has been his chief employment and during a greater part of the time he has been an employee of the Aetna-Standard Sheet Steel Works, this alone testifying to his skill, only workmen of high-grade being employed here. He is known for his reliability as well as his good work and commands the respect of all who know him. The marriage of Mr. Giffin was in April, 1861, to Florence L. McConnaughy, a daughter of John McConnaughy, a native of this county. Mrs. Giffin was one of a family of five children born to her parents, namely: Lucinda, who died in girlhood; Elzan, who is Mrs. William Smith, of this town; Florence L., who became Mrs. Gifin; Howell, who resides in Bridgeport; and Jane, who married C. W. Clogston, and died in In- dian Territory, in 1901. The children born to ison's wife was born in Ireland. When she our subject and wife were: John, who is a | was r3 years old her parents embarked on a paper hanger and contractor, residing inBridge- | sailing vessel for the United States, but many port, married Ella Tomlinson and has one | misfortunes befell them. The vessel lost her child; Virginia Clara, who is Mrs. John Mc- | bearings and was on the ocean for I3 weeks, Millen and who resides in Maynard, has three | during which time a great deal of suffering children by a former marriage; Maggie, who is | prevailed on account of the scarcity of drinking Mrs. William Boyles and resides in Bridge- | water. The only way this was procured was port, has two children - Harry and Robert; by taking advantage of the rainstorms, hold- Van Roy, who married Bessie Higgs and has ing a sheet by its four corners, and catching two children - Irene and Kenneth; and Ida, | enough fresh water to turn into a vessel. In who is a graduate of Frasher's Business Col- | spite of this and many later hardships, this lege, in Wheeling. brave woman lived to the age of 74 years and For several years our subject served as a | reared a family of 11 children. member of the board of health and for two In 1803 David Hutchison journeyed to years he has been a trustee of the cemetery. In | Ohio, passing through Wheeling on his way Masonic circles Mr. Giffin has long been | to Belmont County, and finding there but a known as an enthusiastic and useful member, | few dwellings. He died in 1847, at the age of his connection with the order covering a period | 85 years. He and his wife were consistent of 35 years, during the most of this time he has members of the Presbyterian Church. The life been tyler ot the lodge. He also belongs to histories of the 11 children left by this most Belmont Chapter, No. 140, and has been guard worthy couple would, in many instances, read for a quarter of a century, and is one of the | like romances. All of them became most excharter members of this chapter. He is also a | emplary men and women. In the order of their charter member of Branum Post No. 221, G. | birth these children were as follows: Rebecca, A. R., is officer of the day and has filled al- | Nancy, James, Robert, David, William, Jane, most every official position in this post. He | Elizabeth, Mary, Joseph, and John S. Rebecca also belongs to the Senior Order of United | became Mrs. Jasper Robson and died in the American Mechanics. Mr. Giffin has many | Vicinity of St. Clairsville, December 23, 1892, friends in Bridgeport and is known for his in- | aged 89 years, 4 months and 20 days. Nancy tegrity and estimable character. The religious | died unmarried, October II, 1891, aged 86 connection of the family is with the Methodist | Years. James became an extensive farmer, Charca ^ . | having passed through the experiences of Ohio i pioneer life. For many years he was a leading elder in the Presbyterian Church and a mem-

" TT: ber of the session for 37 vears. His death oca Sion Hoi dos emm | res ET jue d x ` | years and 2 months old. obert died July 6, ps Sr Hit pus : E i ye th 1846, at the age of 36 years, 3 months and 18 u an MIU IS Ys days. He had made his home in Missouri. Jane (Smith) Hutchison. mde . | While making a journey to the old homestead David Hutchison er oat Hi ig | in Belmont County, he became so ill that he a me eras darin, | hardly reached there before the final collapse. D dun ud cea d eder country on ac- | David went to California in the late "forties," count of religious persecution, and settled in | prior, however, to the finding of gold in 1849. Pennsylvania in 1740, where they remained | He married in Ohio, and had a family of five through life. Our subject's grandmother, | children, four of whom still Survive. Since Nancy Hutchison, died in 1782. David Hutch- | he went out prospecting with two companions

Mary married, first, John Bickham, and after his death a Mr. Stockdel, who is a farmer in . Guernsey County. Joseph died December 11, 1896, unmarried, at the age of 73 years. had always lived at the old home. John S.*Hutchison, the youngest member of interests of the other heirs in the estate, and is now the owner of 279 acres of land. This is well improved and is of great value on account of being underlaid with coal deposits, the variety being known as the Pittsburg vein, No. 8. This coal Mr. Hutchison sold for $40 per acre. on this property. He now rents his farm.

to St. Clairsville, although he has by no means lost his interest in his fine land and stock. His farm has been an abundant producer of all kinds of grain, and there he has raised a great deal of fine stock, particularly Shropshire sheep, with which he has been very successful. For years he has ranked among the reliable, judicious and successful agriculturists of the county. He has been active in favoring those measures which his judgment convinced him would be of benefit to the locality, and served road, which at the time was one of the most important and useful enterprises of the county. His interest 'in educational matters has been shown by many years òf service on the School Board. A

Hutchison, | and they lived at several different points in Ohio, and then moved to Kansas, where she | died, April 27, 1856, at the age of 74 years. | Her remains were brought to Plymouth, Ohio, | Elizabeth married Samuel Hutch- | Dr. Thompson), a resident of this county ; and

Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1838, and is a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Kelsey) Rose, natives of Guernsey County. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hutchison, namely: Elizabeth J.; Mary R. (Mrs. E. S. Morgan), whose children are John, Adda, Lucill and Russell; Emma H. (Mrs.

Eva L., who resides at home. Mr. Hutchison and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and contribute liberally to its support. Mr. Hutchison belongs to no secret organizations and cares not for political preferment. Indeed, he does not consider himself a politician at all, but votes the Prohibition ticket from conscientious convictions. His greatest interest is in promoting the usefulness of the Presbyterian Church in St. Clairsville. During the erection of its edifice he was a member of the building committee, and a generous donor to the cause. For a number of years he has been a most successful teacher in the Sabbath-school, and takes a genuine delight in In every relation of life the subject of this sketch stands for what is right, and few men can have higher praise.

HENRY W. DOUGLASS, who passed out of life in January, 1896, was for a number of years one of the most successful and highly esteemed farmer-citizens of Warren township, Belmont County, Ohio. A good neighbor and a husband and father devoted to the welfare of his family, he left many to sorrow at his death, while his township lost, in him, one of its most honest and valued residents. N

13 children born to George and Ellen (Nuzum) Douglass. The father died in Belmont County, Ohio, in 1879, aged 84 years four months, and the mother died November 4, 1892, aged 88 years one month. Our late subject followed an agricultural life, and at his death left for the use of his family a fine, wellimproved farm consisting of 168 acres.

In March, 1874, Mr. Douglass was united in marriage with Sarah E. Reed, who was born in Somerset township, Belmont County, a daughter of William L. Reed. The four children born to this union were as follows: Harry C., born on April 29, 1875; Amy E., born on June 15, 1880; Emmor R., born June 24, 1882; and Grace M., born September 20, 1889. Harty C. and Emmor superintend the farm and are both well educated and intelligent young men. In July, 1896, Harry C. was united in marriage with Bertie E. Woodland, a daughter of John C. Woodiand, one of Belmont County's progressive citizens. One bright little daughter, Edith, has been born to this union. Harry C. Douglass, like his father, affiliates with the Democratic party. The religious connection of the family is with the Methodist Church, in which the late Mr. Douglass was most highly valued. He was also connected with the Masonic fraternity. The pleasant farmhouse is the home of the whole family, and also of Miss Maria C. Douglass, a sister of the late Henry W. Douglass. They are all well known in Warren township and enjoy universal esteem.

F. W. HIBBARD, who conducts the leading furniture and undertaking business in Barnesville, Ohio, is one of the city's most substantial men and prominent citizens. His family was established in the State in 1819, by his grandfather, Caleb Hibbard, who was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, November A IST. and was a cabinetmaker and watchmaker by

The birth of Mr. Hibbard occurred in Barnesville, January 26, 1844, and he is a son of Hiram and Sarah (Hamilton) Hibbard. Hiram Hibbard was born in Ohio in 1821, and his mother, Matilda (Stowe) Hibbard, was a relative of two distinguished Americans, John Quincy Adams and Harriet Beecher Stowe.

learning the cabinetmaker's trade, and in 1843 located in Barnesville, where he established a business which he later enlarged by the addition of a furniture line. His death. occurred April 5, 1868, at which time he held the office of township treasurer, a position of trust that he had filled for many years. Sarah (Hamilton) Hibbard passed away in March, 1888.

After graduating from the Hopedale school, in Harrison County, F. W. Hibbard took a preparatory course, in expectation of entering an Eastern college, but his plans miscarried, and he left school in 1865. At this time, he entered the freight department of the Central Ohio Division of.the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Bellaire, where he remained until October, 1867. He then returned to Barnesville, and entered into a partnership with his father. For a short time after the latter's death, the business was still carried on under the firm name of Hibbard & Son, but in late years F. W. Hibbard's name only has been in use. His store is the largest and most complete in the city and his stock is valued at about $10,000. His business interests include many of the most important enterprises of Barnesville. He is a stockholder in the glass company, and also in the gas and oil company. Many public positions have been offered for his acceptance, but he has refused all except a membership in the City Council.

In 1866, Mr. Hibbard was married to Delia A. Ogle, at Bellaire Ohio. Seven children have resulted from this: union, as follows: Maude O. (Mrs. Charles Heed) ; Claude S., wlio was associated with his father in business, died January 26, 1902; Gail H. (Mrs. J. Harry Lewis); Blanche P. (Mrs. George S. Bradfield) ; Grace C. (Mrs. Charles E. Lee), who died January 2, 1896; Fay F., who died January 2, 1896; and Madge D. (Mrs. L. M. H. Potter). Mr. Hibbard is a prominent member of Barnesville Lodge, No. 185, I. O. O. F.; Warren Lodge, No. 76, K. of P.; and of Rob- up to the demands of the day takes a deep interest in institutions which will prove of benefit to the city. The foundation stone of his success in life has been business integrity, and thus he has won the esteem of all who know him.

JOHN W. FOWLER, one of the most successful grocers of Barnesville, Ohio, is a product of that hustling, thriving community. Born there in February, 1847, he has for the most part spent his life in the place, and during his mature years has been prominently identified with several of its leading industries. He is the son of James and Mary A. (Holland) Fowler. s

James Fowler was born in Maryland, and was one of those hard-working, courageous tillers of the soil who dared hardship and privation, early pushed westward, and became . possessors of the fertile districts of the Ohio Valley. Coming to this country in 1818, he immediately set out for this region, and after some prospecting located on a farm just north of Barnesville, in what is now Warren township. Disdaining no labor, he did his share of the clearing and breaking of the new land, and in time possessed one of the most valuable pieces of property in the vicinity. Being a man of great enterprise, and seeing a good opening for a stone mason in the place, he learned that trade and followed it with marked success for many years. The Baltimore Ohio Railroad tunnel in Barnesville is an evidence of his skillful workmanship. After taking up the trade of a stone mason he made Barnesville his home for some time and became exceedingly popular and influential in the place. He died January 18, 1894, and his wife, Mary (Holland), passed away in 1848.

John W. Fowler obtained a thorough, practical education in the well conducted and progressive schools of Barnesville. As a special training for his life work he began to assist his father at an early age, and thus learned the trade of a stone mason, at which he became very proficient. Upon reaching manhood, he followed this business in Barnesville, on his own account, for several years, and always secured plenty of work and made good wages. During a part of each year, however, he was engaged in the tobacco packing industry, at which he also made considerable money, but when the season was over he resumed his work at masonry. During the raging of the Civil War he gave up his business for a while, and in 1864, in response to the President's call for soldiers, enlisted in Company E, 194th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and under the provost marshal went to the front. He served with distinction until he received his honorable discharge in November, 1865. After returning to Barnesville he resumed his business as a stone mason and tobacco packer, which he continued for many years. Strict attention to business and wise financial management enabled him, in the course of time, to lay by something substantial for the future. With this, in 1895, he opened, in Barnesville, a retail grocery store, and, taking in a son as partner, established the firm J. W. Fowler & Son. Being well known in the place, he had no difficulty in securing custom, and was soon conducting a large and flourishing business. His trade has steadily increased, and in 1900 it became so large that he found it advisable to take in a second son as partner, and the firm has since been known as J. W. Fowler & Sons. It carries a complete line of the best grade of groceries, and its stock of goods, which is larger than that of any similar establishment in Barnesville, is valued at $5,000. The business necessitates the use of three storage rooms and one wareroom, a substantial stone structure, 40 by 20 feet in dimensions. The store itself is located in the center of the town, on West Main street. The firm is thoroughly reliable and has established for itself, far and near, a reputation for honesty and fair dealing.

In November, 1872, Mr. Fowler married: Emma Barnes, who belongs to one of the first families of Barnesville. She is the daughter of Caleb Barnes and a relative of James Barnes, from whom the place received its name.

Mr. Fowler, though influential in his vicinity, has modestly reirained from pushing himself forward, politically. As a Republican, however, his word carries weight in local affairs. He stands high fraternally, as a member of the I. O: 0. F. and acts as presiding officer in the Sharon, Ohio, Encampment.

J. F. McCARTY, residing at No. 611 Broadway, Martin's Ferry, has in the last few years attained considerable prominence as an inventor. His articles, including a milk can, a fruit jar, and the Uneda punch have all been exceedingly practical, and have had a large sale. Mr. McCarty is undoubtedly talented, and as he is now scarcely past middle age, the public has reason to expect still greater works of him. He was born in Colerain township, Belmont County, November r5, 1858, and is a son of Ezra and Emily (Cope) McCarty.

-John McCarty, grandfather of J. F., was a native of Scotland. At an early date he came to the United States, and in the course of time became one of the pioneers of the new State of Ohio. He married an English woman, and they both lived to an advanced age, he being over 9o at the time of his death. Both were widely known and highly respected through the State.

Ezra McCarty, father of J. F., resided in Belmont County for many years of his life. Learning the carpenter's trade at an early age, he afterward followed that occupation for many years. Making a thorough success of his work, he finally rose to the position of a contractor. Many of the buildings, including houses and barns in Belmont County, are the results of his handiwork or supervision. He lived to the age of 74. dying in the spring of 1898. In early manhood he married Emily Cope, daughter of George and Hannah Cope | of Farmington, Colerain township. Mr. Cope | was a teacher for some years. Later he was engaged in the grocery business. His wife was a Quaker. Both lived to advanced age. Mrs. McCarty died in January, 1879, at the age of 45. To Mr. and Mrs. McCarty were born eight children; - George is a contractor in Martin's Ferry ; Charles, an architect in Wheeling; J. F. is mentioned below; Edward is a carpenter in Martin's Ferry; Lizzie, deceased, was married to Louis Keyser; Ada married Henry White and resides on a farm in Colerain township; Harry died May 15, 1902, at the age of 34; and William is engaged in the mill business in Martin's Ferry.

education. With a bent toward mechanics, upon starting out in life he decided to learn the blacksmith trade, and took his apprenticeship with Samuel Heaton, who has the reputation of being the best blacksmith in the State, and who is still carrying on a large business. Results proved that Mr. McCarty had chosen the work for which he was fitted, and he followed his trade from the time he was eighteen until 1897, in all about thirty-one years. His work led to some practical experiments, andabout the time he gave up blacksmithing he invented and secured a patent on a machine for separating tin plate. This proved successful and he sold his pie outright to the Aetna- Standard Company for a large sum. His next invention, a hot air heater, came a little too late to receive its merited deserts. But his milk can and his vacuum fruit jar have met with unqualified success. The milk can is so adjusted as to prevent a churning process during travel. The fruit jar is constructed of rubber and glass, may be handled by.a child without danger of its breaking, and is one of the most excellent articles for preserving fruit on the market. Among other recent inventions is a Uneda punch, which costs only about $15 and is guaranteed to do the work of a $95 punch. Mr. McCarty has already sold a great many of these, and they are everywhere giving excellent | satisfaction. January 4, 1880,

Sarah K. Lewis, who was born in Ohio, daughter of James and Sarah (Martin) Lewis. Mrs. Lewis is now living in Martin's Ferry, where she is highly respected and has many warm friends. Mr. Lewis was an engineer on the ferry boat for 14 years, and was well and favorably known over the county. He died in his soth year. Mr. and Mrs. McCarty have had two children, - Sarah Emily, born October 23, 1880, was a highly gifted girl, who completed her course at the Martin's Ferry High School in 1897 and was intending to continue her studies during the ensuing year, but was stricken with consumption and died September 17, 1897. Clara Belle graduated from the Martin's Ferry High School class of 1902.

Mr. McCarty occupies a leading place among the citizens of Martin's Ferry. He i$ a member of the K. of P. and Uniform Rank, K. of P., and as such has served as chairman of the executive board for some years. Asa Republican he exerts a large influence in politics. He and his family belong to the Presbyterian Church.

The Martin family of which Mrs. McCarty is a member has its tragedy, connected with her maternal grandfather, James W. Martin. He was for some time a resident of Brooke County, (West) Virginia; later, he resided in Wheeling; and in 1837 he moved to Martin's Ferry, where he erected what was for years the Martin family residence, a house which is still standing, on Fayette street. And it was here that all his children were born. He was a shoemaker by trade, and followed this occupation for many years in Martin's Ferry. As a man of influence and ability he also served as postmaster of the place for some time. He marrried Nancy Saunders, and they had eight children, of whom Sarah, the mother of Mrs. McCarty, is the only one now living. It was in 1848 that the sad event referred to took place. Mr. Martin, in behalf of his wife, a helpless invalid. had started to see a phvsician in Wheeling and procure medicine. When sufficient time for his return had elapsed he failed to appear. Nine days passed, and still he absented himself. The family, by this time, fully convinced that something very unusual had happened to him, institued a search. Kind neighbors did their best, but found no trace of him. On the tenth day the griefstricken wife called her children to her bedside and informed them that he was dead and that his body was in the river. She described minutely the exact spot where she believed he could be found. At her bidding kind friends searched the place. and sure enough found his body. The medicine, which he had obtained, was still in his pocket. There was a dent in his skull, which might have caused instant death. Whether it was received before or after his plunge in the river will ever be a mystery. Mrs. Martin's strange and accurate knowledge of his whereabouts had been revealed to her in a dream. She was not of a superstitious family, and this is the only instance in her life of dreams having any special meaning.

-SAMUEL FOWLER, whose prominence as a reliable contractor has been established, 1n Barnesville, Ohio,^was born there July 12, 1865, one of six children of William H. and Adeline (Prior) Fowler, four of whom still survive. William Fowler and his wife are residents of Barnesville, the former being one of the early settlers, and a contractor of note in this vicinity.

Samuel Fowler attended school in Barnesville and since the age of 24 years has been associated in the contracting business with his father. He has been very successful in his hne on account of the excellent work he has turned out, and the activity with which he has completed very important contracts. His first large contract was one mile of brick paving, which showed accurate, careful work, and was perfectly satisfactory to the municipality. The ten miles of graveling which he put upon the pike roads not only added to the beautv of the environs of the city, but gained him the commendation of all who make use of these highways. Mr. Fowler employs a force of from 25 He has at present, in course of erection, a fine residence on West Main street, which will be completed in the fall of 1902, at a cost of about $3,000. It will be provided .with all modern improvements, and will be handsome, convenient and comfortable.

known in Guernsey County, where he is a popular hotel-keeper. Two ltitle daughters were born to this union, namely: Helen and Louise. Mr. Fowler is identifed with the Republican party. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias. He is regarded as one of the progressive business men of Barnesville, and also as a citizen of integrity and reliability.

HEYWARD LONG. It has been said by many in these later years that a young man without capital cannot make his start in life and rise to a position of affluence in a short time. In reading the life of Heyward Long, the gentleman whose name heads this writing, one may easily see that no greater fallacy exists, and that opportunities arrive each day for those who have the energy, them. Heyward Long is now one of the most prominent business men of Martin's Ferry, where he carries on an extensive business as hardware merchant, at No. 412 Hanover street. He is a native of the city and was born March 24, 1871, a son of Conrad and Kate (Clark) Long and a greatgrandson of Elizabeth Zane, well known to the people of this part of the State as a girl of great daring and courage, who played her part in the history of the county. It was she who, during a fight with the Indians in defense of Fort Henry, volunteered to run to a near-by house before the deadly fire from the Indians and secure an apron full of powder. She performed the feat and returned in safety to the fort.

education in the German schools, under the care of an uncle. In 1856 lie immigrated to the United States, and has since made Martins Ferry his home. While in his native country he learned the trade of a tinner, and for a year following his arrival in the United States he readily found work at his trade. However, he was not satisfied, and bought a hardware store, which he conducted profitably until 1897, and has since been' in partnership with our subject in his store. Conrad Long was united in marriage with Kate Clark, a native of Martin's Ferry, who bore him six children, our subject being the third. The others are: Capitola, now Mrs. Harry Eberling, of Bellaire; Charles B., engaged as a tinner in the American Sheet Steel Company's establishment at Martin's Ferry; Eloise, at home; Pattie, who married William Anderson, of Wheeling; and Elizabeth. The father is now 69 years of age, and his wife is 67.

Heyward Long was educated in the High School of Martin's Ferry, and after school days were over he began his business career as a clerk in his father's store. Later he put in a year's time at bridge work, after which he started to work again as clerk, and in 1895 embárked in business for himself as a hardware merchant. The room he occupies is 85 feet long and 184 feet wide, with a basement under the entire building, while his wareroom is 20 by roo feet and is well stocked. He handles farm implements, paints, cutlery, stoves, etc., and all the various things found in a first-class hardware store of today. The store has electric lights and all the modern conveniences, and is very nicely located. The trade has gradually increased from the time the business was started.

May 9, 1893. our subject was united in marriage with Rosa Gordon, a. native of Greggs, West Virginia. and they have two children, Edna and Lillian. Mr. Long is chief of the fire department of Martin's Ferrv, and a member of the "Racing Team," a description of which is found in the sketch oí Dr. J. W. Darrah, elsewhere in this book. Mr. Long is fleet of foot, and therefore is a valued member of this team. Before his business affairs occupied all his time, he was given much to wrestling, that being a pastime of his. He is a very good athlete and has given much attention to athletics. He was captain in 1894 of the "Vigilant Athletic Club," whose football team won every game participated in by them during that year and were considered the champions of the Upper Ohio Valley, from Pittsburg to Portsmouth.

.In politics Mr. Long is an ardent Republican. Fraternally he is a Mason, affiliating with the blue lodge, F. & A. M.; Belmont Chapter No/r40; KR. AS M; Hope Cómmandery, No. 26, K. T.; and Osiris Temple of the Mystic Shrine of Wheeling. He is also a member of the Blair Lodge, B. P. O. E., No. 419, and the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, of which he is a charter member and trustee.

JAMES C. GRAY, a prominent attorney and one of the active and successful business men of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Belmont County on June 20, 1851, a son of James W. and Alison (Thorburn) Gray, the former of whom was a native of Belmont County, and the latter of Scotland.

James W. Gray, the father of the subject of this biography, was one of the leading business men of the Eastern Ohio Valley. In 1865 he bought a one-half interest in the William Wiley foundry and machine works, and continued to operate in that connection until he with others bought the other half interest and the firm continued until his retirement, in 1872, as the James W. Gray Company, Mr. Gray being almost sole owner. The castings made at this foundry gained favor over a wide territory, were used in Pittsburg, Wheeling and Cincinnati. During the Civil War they made shot, shells and cannon balls for the Union Army. It was one of the pioneer in-

For a number of years James W. Gray was an elder in the United Presbyterian Church. He was an Abolitionist in political sentiment and desired the prosecution of the war to its honorable end. His death occurred on June He was sincerely mourned for he was known to be an upright man and estimable citizen. The mother of our subject was born July 21, 1824, a daughter of Alexander Thorburn, who came from Scotland in the early days of the century passed, and settled at Scotch Ridge, Belmont County, but after a number of years moved to near Quincy, Illinois, where he died. His wife passed" away November 6, 1858, in this county. The children born to James W. Gray and his wife were four in number, viz.: John A., who is a professor in Muskingum College; James C., who is our subject; Ellen, who resides with her brother just mentioned; and Sarah, who has charge of the art department at Muskingum College. , ;

The early education of James C. Gray was obtained in Martin's Ferry, and later he completed his education at Muskingum College, graduating with the degree of B. L. He followed this with a law course at Ann Arbor, Michigan, graduating there in the class of 1880. His practice was begun at Martin's Ferry where he has since continued. He has served the city in several responsible positions, although his inclinations are not in the direction of political honor. His leading ambition is to rank well in his profession. For four years he served the city as solicitor, has been local attorney for several railroads. He created a favorable impression and a degree of prominence for himself in the famous case of the collision on the Ohio River between the "John Lomas" and the steamer "Scioto," on July 4, 1882. He was the senior counsel on the "Lomas" side. During the campaigns of 1896 and 1900 he was active in working for the Republican candidates in the national campaigns. While he seeks no office for himself, he is ever ready to help his friends and uphold the principles of his chosen party. Both oí his parents were devoted members of the Presbyterian Church, and he has found his religious home within that body for the past 18 years, and has been the director of the choir in the Martin's Ferry church.

On December 5, 1883, Mr. Gray was united in marriage with Clara Bird, a native of Easton, Pennsylvania, born June 20, 1861, a daughter of Joseph Bird, who was an English ironmaster that came to Belmont County in 1879. Mrs. Gray died on March 21, 1902, deeply lamented by all who knew her. She was devoted to the church, was a member of the Woman's Club at Wheeling, an exceedingly popular personage in social circles and a blessing to her home and family. The three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gray were: Calvin Bird, taking an electrical course at the American Tin Plate company's Works; James Paul; and William Shakspeare, named for the immortal bard on account of a relationship existing through his maternal grandparents. Mr. Gray as noted above has made an enviable record as a lawyer and is equally fortunate in possessing the confidence and esteem òf his fellow citizens who recognize in him an honest, upright and publicspirited man. y