Toledo City (part 9 of 21)

Mr. Leppelman manifests a deep interest in everything relating to the welfare and development of the city and is a valued member of the Toledo Chamber of Commerce. He is also connected with the Rotary Club and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and his political support is given to the republican party. He has depended upon his own efforts for advancement and his progressive spirit has prompted him to put forth earnest and effective effort that has placed him with Toledo's leading business men and prominent citizens. Mr. Leppelman's residence is at No. 662 West Delaware avenue.

Frederick Franklin Grose

Frederick Franklin Grose is devoting his attention to the real estate business in connection with the Ramseyer Company, of which he was made sales manager in 1916. He has always been a resident of Ohio, Upper Sandusky being the place of his nativity and January 10, 1887, the date of his birth. His parents were Lewis and Louise (Scheufler) Grose and it was while spending his boyhood under the parental roof that he devoted his attention largely to the acquirement of a public school education until he reached the age of fourteen years. He was twenty years of age when in 1907 he came to this city and secured employment in the Lion Store, where he continued for six years, working his way steadily upward until he became assistant manager of the clothing department. On severing that connection he turned his attention to real estate activity and entered into relations with the Ramseyer Company, being made sales manager in 1916. Through the intervening period he has continued in this position, which is one of large responsibility because of the extensive clientele of the firm. He wisely, carefully and successfully directs the sales force of this corporation and in this connection has become widely known in the business circles of his adopted city.

On the 16th of April, 1913, Mr. Grose was married to Miss Mabel M. Reasoner of Toledo and they have become parents of three children: Dorothy Grace, Helen Louise and Frederick Jack. Mr. Grose belongs to the Masonic fraternity and is a loyal follower of the teachings of the order, exemplifying in his daily conduct the spirit upon which the craft is based. He belongs to the Real Estate Association, but he has never sought to figure prominently in connection with public affairs. This does not mean that he is ever remiss in the duties of citizenship; on the contrary he is loyal to the best interests of community, commonwealth and country and endeavors to uphold high ideals at all times. He does not seek the rewards of office, however, but concentrates his efforts and attention upon his daily tasks as a business man and thus his course has been marked by steady advancement.

Samuel-E. Weil

Samuel E. Weil, organizer and president of the firm of S. E. Weil & Company, was born in Germany, on the Switzerland border, on the 19th of July, 1867, and is a son of the late Max and Fanny (Rosenthal) Weil. The father was engaged in the leather business, developing an enterprise of considerable proportions in his native country. The son was accorded liberal educational opportunities, attending the universities of Germany to the age of fifteen years, when he bade adieu to friends and native country and sailed for America, arriving in Toledo in 1882, since which time he has been a resident of this city, covering a period of forty years. Here he became associated with the wholesale fruit and produce business of Mr. N. L. Ries, one of the pioneers of Toledo, and throughout the intervening period has remained active in this commercial field. Acquainted with every phase of the business, he organized the firm of S. E. Weil & Company, of which he has been the head. In directing the affairs of the company and promoting its growth he has displayed marked capability, thoroughness, initiative and enterprise and with the passing years the business has expanded along lines that have made this one of the leading and strongest houses of its kind in the city. Mr. Weil has also directed his efforts into financial circles, becoming a director of the Security Savings Bank & Trust Company.

On the 27th of February, 1890, Mr. Weil was united in marriage to Miss Elise Ries of Toledo, Ohio. Their only child, Milton Ries Weil, died on the 10th of January, 1918, after a short illness, when but twenty-six years of age.

Samuel

Mr. Weil finds his recreation in golf but the major part of his time and attention is devoted to his business affairs. He has always had the best interests of the city at heart and no needy one has ever applied to him in vain. Mr. Weil is a modest, unassuming, kind-hearted gentleman and a great lover of children. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, where he has steadily worked his way to success by his untiring efforts.

Oliver Giles Comstock, M.D.

In the death of Dr. Oliver Giles Comstock, Toledo mourned the loss of one whose life was of great usefulness and value to the city and whose memory remains as a blessed benediction to all who knew him. A native of Sylvania, Ohio, he was born on the 29th of September, 1835, his parents being Giles and Electa (Vroman) Comstock, who resided on a farm in that locality. Oliver Giles Comstock obtained his early education in the public schools of Sylvania and afterward attended the high school at Adrian, Michigan. Later he continued his studies in Ann Arbor and at Ypsilanti, Michigan, and eventually he pursued a three years' course of study in the Toledo Medical College at Toledo, where he won his professional degree. Throughout his life he was of most studious nature, constantly broadening his knowledge and promoting his efficiency through wide reading and scientific research. After completing his course of study in Toledo he went to Detroit, where he engaged in the practice of medicine for some time, returning to this city in 1890 and here remaining until his demise, maintaining his home and office at No. 1530 Western avenue. He also occupied the chair of physiology in the Toledo Medical College for a time and he was surgeon-general for the canton of Odd Fellows. His private practice was very extensive and for eight years he filled the position of city physician. He enjoyed wide popularity among his brethren of the profession because of his deference for the opinions of others and his close conformity to the highest ethical standards. He was for a long time a member of the staff of the Toledo Hospital and he there maintained a ward for children. He was greatly loved among the poor, not only by reason of professional assistance rendered them without remuneration but also because of his kindly aid in many another way. It is said that he was constantly seen with a bundle which contained some needed article for an unfortunate one in whom he was interested.

In his political views Dr. Comstock was always a stanch republican and he was a member of the Lincoln Republican Club. He belonged to the Knights of Pythias, to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, to the Knights and Ladies of Security and to the city, county and state medical societies. His religious faith was indicated in his membership in the Broadway Methodist church and he served on its official board. Throughout his life he sought not only that advancement which means material gain but also sought promotion in that broader field of religious experience which draws the individual closer and closer into harmony with the laws of God. He recognized the brotherhood of man and this was continually manifest in his liberal charity and kindliness, many families being the special objects of his bounty, while at no time did he withhold a helping hand where he could render assistance. One'of his methods of recreation was the cultivation of flowers, of which he was very fond. He also derived great pleasure from the study of birds and dogs and he loved nature in every form. Each year he would make his way to the forest for a fishing trip and at the same time would find keen pleasure in the study of birds and nature in general. He made his life a practice ground for the life to come and was constantly reaching out into the broader realm of thought and of service.

On the 10th of September, 1890, in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Comstock was united in marriage to Miss Alvretta Perkins, a daughter of Horace A. and Naomi Perkins, the former a native of Trenton, Michigan, and a machinist by trade. Mrs. Comstock, like her husband, has been keenly interested in all those forces which make for uplift and cultural progress. She is a lady of innate refinement of nature and her life has been fraught with many good deeds. For fifteen years she belonged to the Educational Club of Toledo. In 1890 she was a member of the board of the Humane Society and she is widely known for her church work and her many benevyolent enterprises. She has taken part in all sorts of charitable work in connection with the Western Avenue Methodist Episcopal church and was the organizer and is the president of the Invincible Society, composed of a number of young ladies and recognized as one of the most flourishing of the church societies of the city. She has done a large amount of charitable work in a quiet way through the ladies' auxiliary to the Humane Society and through her assistance a number of needy children have been clothed and kept in school. At the present writing she is heading a movement to establish a home for girls in a part of the city where such an institution is much needed. She was the president of the Door of Hope for two years and later this was changed to the Flower Home for Girls. She belongs to the Rebekah Lodge, the Pythian Sisters and to the Toledo Relief Corps. She is a member of the Mental Culture Club and has always been keenly interested in literature, while her contributions to the meetings of the literary clubs with which she is identified have been of a most instructive and entertaining character. She recently read a paper full of pretty conceits which was most widely and "favorably commented upon and which she called "The Strange Story of the Flowers," comparing them to people, finding a similarity between the long, slender, graceful leaf and the refined oval face; the sharp, broad leaf and the broad, happy face; the coarse, rough leaf and the coarse, irregular features of some faces; and similar interesting comparisons. The little stanza telling how the forget-me-not got its name was quoted and other pretty fragments from her pen. Both Dr. and Mrs. Comstock contributed much toward the work of making the world a better and brighter place in which to live, and while his memory is cherished and revered by all with whom he came into contact, she is still carrying on the great work to which their lives had been dedicated - the work of uplift and progress along intellectual and moral lines. It was on the 29th of October, 1913, that Dr. Comstock was called to his final rest.

Burton K. Blanchet

Burton K. Blanchet, senior member of the firm of Blanchet, Thornburgh & Vandersall, is a native 'son of Toledo and one of the city's well known investment dealers. He was born February 3, 1888. He attended grammar school at Toledo, was graduated from high school at Terre Haute, Indiana, and attended Rose Polytechnic Institute of that city. His initial business experience was with the

Rathbun-Jones Engineering Company of Toledo and later with The General Motors Corporation. He entered the investment field in 1911, becoming associated with Stacy & Braum of Toledo, with whom he remained until 1917, when he organized the investment business of Graves & Blanchet, which in 1918 became known as Graves, Blanchet & Thornburgh. This partnership was continued until January 1, 1922, when Mr. Graves retired and a new partnership under the name of Blanchet, Thornburgh & Vandersall was established. They deal in municipal bonds and since its inception the business has enjoyed a steady growth, theirs now being one of the representative bond houses of the city.

In his political views Mr. Blanchet is a republican. He is a member of the Toledo Club, the Inverness Country Club and Sylvania Golf Club, while fraternally he is a Mason and a Shriner. He is a man of enterprise who displays sound judgment in the management of his business affairs, and he has been no small factor in the success and growth of the bond business of Blanchet, Thornburgh & Vandersall, whose offices are on the third floor of the Second National Bank building. Mr. Blanchet has a wide acquaintance among investment and financial men throughout the country. His residence is at No. 2120 Calumet avenue.

Parry 1G, Potter

Harry G. Potter, engaged in the real estate business in Toledo, is one of the substantial citizens that the Empire state has furnished Ohio. He was born in Corinth, New York, January 24, 1871, his parents being Frederick R. and Mary (Hill) Potter, the former a native of the state of New York, while the latter was born in London, England. She was brought to America during her girlhood days and thereafter resided in New York. Mr. Potter, too, is of English lineage, although the family has been represented for some time on this side of the Atlantic. He is an active member of the Baptist church and has been prominent in community affairs, serving at one time as postmaster of Schroon Lake, New York.

Harry G. Potter acquired his education in the schools of New York and of Toledo, first coming to this city in 1883, when a lad of twelve years. He returned to the Empire state, however, but some time afterward again took up his abode in Toledo. He began his business career in the employ of Harvey P. Platt, one of the prominent lawyers of this city, but he became interested in the real estate business and joined his preceptor in the firm of Harvey P. Platt & Company. He took up the work of reclaiming swamp lands in Ohio and in the south, afterward colonizing these lands, and throughout the intervening period he has steadily engaged in the real estate business, promoting many important projects of this kind. After a partnership with Mr. Platt, covering a period of fifteen years, he started out independently and now has well appointed offices in the Commerce-Guardian building. He has negotiated many important realty transfers for others and has handled important commissions as a real estate broker, while at the same time he has made judicious purchases and sales as an individual.

Mr. Potter is recognized as one of the foremost realtors of Toledo, possessing notably sound judgment and keen discrimination, while his knowledge of real estate values is comprehensive and accurate. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day but does not seek nor desire office. His religious faith is that of the Baptist church and his life has been well spent, gaining for him the confidence and high regard of those with whom he has been brought into contact.

William H. Standart

For many years William H. Standart was closely and prominently associated with business interests in Toledo and for a number of years he was the president of the Standart-Simmons Hardware Company. He retired from the active management of the business, however, some time before his death, but did not sever his financial connection with important interests of the city. Hus life served as a source of inspiration and encouragement to others, showing what can be accomplished by individual effort, for he started out in a humble position and won his advancement through merit and capability. Mr. Standart was a native of Indiana, his birth having occurred in the city of Attica, October 23, 1850, his parents being William E. and Alice L. (Jackson) Standart. The father was a merchant who for a number of years conducted business at Cleveland, Ohio, and with the outbreak of the Civil war in 1861 he prepared for active service, organizing what became known as Standart's Battery. He was chosen captain thereof and was chief of artillery in Palmer's Division of the Union forces. With his command: he served to the close of the war and his own valor, courage and loyalty inspired the men who served under him.

His son, William H. Standart, pursued his education in the public schools of Cleveland, supplemented by attendance for a year and a half at the University of Michigan.' He started out to provide for his own support, however, in 1866, when a boy of but sixteen years, by securing employment in a hardware store in Toledo and for an extended period he was closely associated with the hardware trade. He worked diligently, proved his loyalty and capability and advanced step by step. In 1878 he entered the employ of the Bostwick-Braun Company and after serving as an employe for almost a decade was admitted to partnership in 1887. He was then active in control of the business for about seventeen years but sold his interest in 1904. Two years later, or in 1906, he organized the Standart-Simmons Hardware Company, of which he continued president for a number of years. He developed this business upon a sound and substantial basis and directed his energies along lines leading to continued success. His entire business career was one which would bear the closest investigation and scrutiny and should prove of inspirational value to others, showing what can be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do. Up to the time of his death Mr. Standart maintained an interest in the Toledo Travelers Life Insurance Company, of which he was the first vice president, and his business interests and wise investments brought him a most substantial annual income.

On the 28th of September, 1888, Mr. Standart' was married to Miss Sarah M. Wheeler, a representative of one of the old families of this city residing here from early times. It was one of this family that built the Wheeler Opera House, which was the first place of amusement of this character in Toledo.

Mr. Standart passed away June 20, 1922. He was well known in club circles, having membership in the Toledo and Country clubs. He belonged also to the

Masonic fraternity and was a loyal supporter of the teachings and purposes of the craft. He ever manifested great interest in the Newsboys Association and believed in the wise encouragement and support of the little fellows who are distributing the papers through the city and from whose ranks have risen many of the now substantial and progressive business men and honored residents of Toledo. In a word, Mr. Standart was always alive to the possibilities of "awakening the little seeds of good asleep throughout the world" and especially were his efforts directed in those fields where labor is put forth to safeguard the child and bring about the development of character that has its basis in firm and upright principles.

Thomas N. Bierly, attorney at law, who has long occupied a position in the front rank of the legal profession in Toledo, comes to this state from Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Center county, February 21, 1855. He is a son of George and Sarah (Magee) Bierly, also natives of the Keystone state, whence they removed to Ohio in 1857, settling in Bradner, Wood county, where the 'father became a successful farmer, owning and cultivating a large and valuable tract of land throughout his remaining days. At the outbreak of the Mexican war he was appointed a captain of a Pennsylvania company and drilled the soldiers that went into service under his command. He was also made a drillmaster for the Federal troops during the Civil war. He passed away on his farm in Wood county at the notable age of ninety years, thus closing a life of great usefulness. His wife also passed away on the old homestead, at the age of eighty-six years. In their family were eight children, four of whom have passed to the great beyond, while those living are: Thomas N.; Cyrus, a resident of Marcy, Minnesota; Mrs. Nancy Plantz of Bradner, Ohio; and Mrs. Ella Westerfield, also living in Bradner.

In his youthful days Thomas N. Bierly attended the public schools of Prospect, Ohio, and early took up the profession of teaching in the country schools, which he followed for several years. He regarded this, however, merely as an initial step to other professional labor, as it was his desire to become a member of the bar and to this end he became a student in the law office of James R. Tyler at Perrysburg, who directed his reading until his admission to the bar in 1876. He afterward engaged in practice in Perrysburg and continued successfully in active practice in Wood county for eighteen years. In 1897, with broad and valuable experience, he came to Toledo, where he opened an office, and through the intervening period he has won place among the most prominent and highly respected members of the bar of this city. He displays marked ability in analyzing his cases and in readily seeing the relation between cause and effect, while he is seldom, if ever, at fault in the application of a legal principle.

Mr. Bierly was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Furbush of Adrian, Michigan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Furbush, and they have become parents of four children: Clarence C., born in Pemberville, Ohio, and educated in the Toledo high school, is now engaged in the insurance business in this city. He married Miss Frances Bowne of Chicago and they have two children, Virginia and Jane; Lulu, the second of the Bierly family, was born in Pemberville and also pursued a high school course in Toledo; Everett O., born in Pemberville, Ohio, and educated in the Toledo schools, married Miss Maude DeMuth and they have three children,

Maxine, Phyllis and Richard; Neva, born in Pemberville, has also pursued a high school course in Toledo. The family reside at No. 1793 Parkside.

Mr. Bierly has given his political allegiance to the democratic party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and has several times been called to public office. He served for eight years as mayor of Pemberville, giving to the city a businesslike and progressive administration, and he was also president of the school board there. He has likewise been a nominee for the office of common pleas judge and circuit judge. While undoubtedly not without that political ambition which is so great an incentive for fidelity and capability in public office, he nevertheless regards the pursuits of private life as in themselves abundantly worthy of his best efforts and concentrates his time and attention upon his professional duties, his devotion to his clients' interests being proverbial. He belongs to both the Lucas County and Ohio State Bar associations and enjoys in unusual degree the confidence, goodwill and respect of his professional brethren. He is also a loyal member of the Masonic fraternity, in which he has taken the Royal Arch degrees.

Albert Clifford Wannamaker

Albert Clifford Wannamaker, president of the Buckeye Furniture Company, has throughout his entire business career readily recognized the opportunities of trade and commerce and in the utilization of the advantages which have come to him he has reached a creditable place in business circles of this city. Ohio numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in Wayne county, on the 11th of February, 1873, his parents being Alfred and Catherine (Weaver ) Wannamaker. The father was a flour manufacturer, devoting many years to the milling business and with the trade Albert C. Wannamaker became familiar. At the usual age he entered the public schools of West Salem, Ohio, and after completing his course of study there attended a business college, thus qualifying for life's practical and responsible duties.

Mr. Wannamaker dates his residence in Toledo from 1891 and through the intervening period of almost a third of a century he has been closely associated with business activity here. He was originally associated with his father in his milling enterprises, acquainting himself with the actual work of the mill and with the office end of the business as well. In time he became city salesman and later was placed in charge of the shipping department. He was also eventually given charge of the production end of the business and thus gained an intimate and comprehensive knowledge of every phase of the trade from the time the grain was purchased until it was placed on the market a finished product. In 1912 Mr. Wannamaker purchased an interest in the Buckeye Furniture Company, all of the stock of which is owned by the family. He is now the president of this concern, which occupies four floors of a building eighty by one hundred and twenty feet, and which is capitalized for fifty thousand dollars. The plant is splendidly equipped with the latest improved machinery for carrying on business of this character and the success of the enterprise during the past decade is attributable in no small measure to the efforts, enterprise and broad business vision of Albert C. Wannamaker. He is also the vice president and one of the directors of the Community Collateral Loan Company and is a director of the Retail Merchants Board.

Albert

On the 28th of April, 1898, Mr. Wannamaker was united in marriage to Miss Maud Anna Schumacher of Toledo, Ohio, and they have become parents of two children: Gladys Marjorie and Alfred Gale. Mr. and Mrs. Wannamaker occupy an enviable social position, enjoying the warm friendship and high regard of many with whom they have been brought into contact. 'They are members of the Collingwood Avenue Presbyterian church and manifest a zealous interest in its work and the extension of its influence. Fraternally Mr. Wannamaker is also a Mason, connected with the Scottish Rite bodies up to and including the Consistory and with the Mystic Shrine. He likewise has membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and is always loyal to the teachings and purposes of these organizations. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and is a director of The Better Business Commission. The thoroughness with which he executes every task that devolves upon him and the alertness with which he greets every opportunity that comes to him are salient features in his steady advancement which has brought him from a humble position in business circles to rank with the leading representatives of his line in northwestern Ohio.

For a quarter of acentury Dr. W. T. Burke has engaged in the practice of medicine in Toledo and the passing years have firmly established his position among the leading physicians of the city. He was born in Northfield, Washtenaw county, Michigan, February 2, 1868, a son of Edward and Mary (Rogan) Burke, both of whom were natives of Ireland and in childhood were brought by their parents to the United States, the father being but eight years of age at that time, while the mother was a year younger. The paternal grandparents first settled in Pennsylvania, later removing to Michigan, and on reaching manhood Edward Burke took up the occupation of farming, which he continued to follow in the Wolverine state until his death. Mrs. Burke has also passed away. Seven children were born of their union, five of whom survive, namely: Rev. Anthony Burke, who was for many years pastor of a church at Battle Creek, Michigan, but is now living retired in southern California; Dr. Charles J. Burke, a prominent dentist of Battle Creek; Edward and James Burke, residents of Northfield, Michigan; and Dr. W. T. Burke of this review.

The last named attended the grammar schools of Northfield and the high school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, and then entered the State University in that city, winning his M. D. degree in 1895. After his graduation he went to northern Pennsylvania, where he remained for two years, acting in a professional capacity for several coal mining companies in that locality. In 1897 he came. to Toledo, where he has since made his home, and is now a member of the medical staff of Mercy Hospital, being also connected with the auxiliary staff of St. Vincent's Hospital. His professional labors have been attended with gratifying success and his practice has steadily grown in volume and importance as he has demonstrated his ability to cope with the intricate problems which continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and prolong life.

Dr. Burke is a loyal supporter of the city because of his belief in its opportunities and has shown his faith in its future by judicious real estate investments, his property being situated on Monroe street. He is a communicant of St. Patrick's

Roman Catholic church and his professional relations are with the Toledo Academy of Medicine, the Lucas County and Ohio State Medical societies and the American Medical Association. He stands high in the regard of his professional colleagues and his ambition keeps him abreast with the trend of the times in the field of modern medical and surgical practice.

William Frederick Pioch

William Frederick Pioch, a native son of Toledo, is a successful building contractor and a member of a family that for many years has occupied a position of leadership in this field. Their labors have contributed substantially to the improvement and upbuilding of the city and notable examples of their skill and handiwork are to be seen on all sides. Mr. Pioch was born in this city May 10, 1884, and is a son of John and Bertha (Seeman) Pioch, both of whom are of European birth. In early life they came to the United States, settling in Toledo, where the father entered commercial circles as a building contractor, and he is still engaged in that business, having erected many of the most substantial and attractive structures in the city. His work denotes marked skill and ability and his business transactions have ever been characterized by strict honor and integrity, winning for him the confidence and respect of all with whom he has been brought into contact. The mother also survives and nine children were born of their union. Seven are living: Emil F., Frederick K., Mrs. Alice Kramer, Lydia, Arthur, Herbert and W. F., all of whom are residents of Toledo.

In the Lutheran parochial school of this city William Frederick Pioch obtained his education and his initial business experience was secured in the office of Mr. Matz, a well known architect of Toledo, with whom he remained for a short time. He then entered the architectural and drafting department of the Campbell Lumber Company, with which he was identified until 1910, resigning his position in order to engage in the building and contracting business with his father. They erected many homes, schools, business blocks and other public edifices, some of the most notable examples of their work being the Tubercular Hospital, the Toledo branch of the State Laundry and public library buildings. In 1921 William Frederick Pioch embarked in the business independently and the venture has been a very successful one. He has been awarded many important contracts, erecting the Wills St. Claire service station in Toledo, the Washington Congregational church and chapel, the building occupied by the Progress Club, the Blodgett residence at Grand Rapids, Ohio, a service station at Maumee, Ohio, and for the Bondy Motor Sales Company, the United Brethren in Christ church and many other structures. There is no feature of the business with which he is not thoroughly familiar and he has the skill which enables him to combine utility and comfort with beauty of design. This, however, constitutes but one phase of Mr. Pioch's activities, for he is president of the Miller-Baitler Real Estate Company and the Buckeye Savings Association; secretary and treasurer of the Toledo Vitrified Brick Company and the Bondy Motor Sales Company; a director of the Enamel Vitrified Brick Company; and vice president of the Warnke Motor Sales Company of Maumee, Ohio. Opportunity has ever been to him the call to action aS many lines of activity have profited by his enterprise and superior business ability.

William F, Pioch

Mr. Pioch was married in Toledo, September 16, 1909, to Miss Edith A. Schmidt, a native of Marengo, Iowa, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Schmidt, well known residents of that place. Two children have been born of this union: Willis, whose birth occurred July 21, 1910, and who is now attending the parochial schools; and Raymond, born October 12, 1918. Mr. and Mrs. Pioch are members of the Lutheran church and his political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has labored effectively for the upbuilding and improvement of his city and through his membership with the Toledo Chamber of Commerce he is doing all in his power to promote its industrial development and prosperity. In business affairs he has made steady progress and the secret of his success lies in the fact that thoroughness and diligence have characterized all of his work. His life has been guided by high standards and he worthily bears a name which for many years has stood as a synonym for integrity, reliability and enterprise in business circles of Toledo. His home is at No. 1081 North Woodruff avenue.

Dr. W. A. Neill, a leading gynecologist of Toledo, is one of the younger members of the medical profession, but his years seem no bar to his progress, and he has already gained a position that many an older practitioner might well envy. He was born in Chetopa, Kansas, April 17, 1890, and is a son of William Richard and Mary (Dwyer) Neill, natives of Indiana. In early life they went to Kansas, where the father became connected with the live stock business, and later he removed to Oklahoma, where he continued his operations along that line. Subsequently he made his way to the Pacific northwest and is now engaged in the timber business at Vancouver, Washington. The mother also survives. Five children have been born to them: Charles, a resident of Oklahoma; Mrs. Lena Batters of Spokane, Washington; Bertha and Betty, who are yet at home with their parents; and W. A.

W. A. Neill obtained his early education in the grammar and high schools of Vancouver, Washington, and afterward became a student at Whitman College at Walla Walla, that state, which conferred upon him the B. S. degree in 1913. His professional training was acquired in the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1917, and following the entrance of the United States into the World war he enlisted in the navy. He was rommissioned a lieutenant in the Medical Corps and was assigned to a hospital ship, remaining in the service until the close of the war, crossing the Atlantic six times. He received his discharge in 1919, afterward coming to Toledo, where he has since followed his profession as a gynecologist. He is a skillful surgeon and in the treatment of cases entrusted to his care he has been very successful. He is a member of the medical staffs of the Flower and Lucas County hospitals and is building up a large practice. He is an earnest and conscientious student and utilizes every opportunity to broaden his knowledge and promote his efficiency.

Dr. Neill takes a deep interest in the welfare and advancement of the city with which he has allied his interests and has become identified with the Toledo Chamber of Commerce. He is also connected with the Toledo Yacht Club and his political allegiance is given to the republican party. His professional relations are with the Toledo & Lucas County Academy, the Ohio State Medical Society and the American Medical Association and he is also a member of Phi Delta Theta, Nu Sigma Nu and Alpha Omega, medical fraternities. He holds to high standards in professional service and his ambition, enterprise and ability are rapidly bringing him to the front in his chosen vocation.

Earl W. Newcomer

For many years Earl W. Newcomer was numbered among Toledo's leading pharmacists and he is now rendering valuable service to the city as welfare director. He was born in West Unity, Ohio, April 13, 1876, and his parents, Marion and Lucy (Wilson) Newcomer, are also natives of this state. For a time they resided in Kansas and the father successfully engaged in merchandising at West Unity, but he is now living retired in Toledo.

Earl W. Newcomer, their only child, attended the grammar and high schools of Bryan, Ohio, and afterward took up the study of pharmacy. For eight years he operated a drug store at Bryan and then disposed of the undertaking. Coming to Toledo in 1902, he resumed his operations along this line, building up a large business, which he successfully conducted until 1920, when the stores were sold. He is one of the directors of the Northern National Bank of this city. On the Ist of January, 1921, he was appointed welfare director of Toledo, in which capacity he is now serving, discharging his duties with efficiency and conscientiousness and working effectively to promote the public good.

In Toledo, in 1903, Mr. Newcomer was united in marriage to Miss Effie G. Saxton, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank G. Saxton of Jackson, Michigan, and they have a son, Frank S., who was born in 1905 and is a student at the Staunton Military Academy, Staunton, Virginia. Mr. Newcomer is a member of the Toledo Club, the Rotary Club, the Inverness Club and the Toledo Yacht Club and he is also identified with the Masonic fraternity. He is a broadminded man, deeply interested in all movements for reform and improvement, and an active worker for the good of his city, in which he is widely known and highly esteemed.

John James May

John James May was for over thirty-two years connected with the Lasalle & Koch Company and for years, until his retirement in 1923, was the head of its finance and credit department. Mr. May is well known in Toledo's mercantile circles, where he has been identified since boyhood. He deserves no little credit for what he has accomplished and his life record indicates what may be gained through diligence, ambition and determination. Born in Lucas county, on the 13th of March, 1867, he is a son of Martin and Margaret (Carter) May. His education was acquired in St. Patrick's parochial school and in the Toledo high school and then, as later, he used his opportunities and advantages in a wise way, thus laying the foundation for his later success. He earned his living when a young boy by selling newspapers on the streets of Toledo. He subsequently obtained a position as cash boy in a small store and his duties included the doing of all sorts of errands. He early realized that industry is the basis of success and he also felt that education was necessary for advancement. Accordingly, he studied nights and improved his leisure hours in the acquirement of knowledge. He took a private course in bookkeeping and thus fitted himself for larger responsibilities and more onerous duties. Step by step he advanced until he became manager of a store in Lima, Ohio, and in that connection he-also gained valuable experience that fitted him for still further advanced steps. In 1891 he became associated with the Lasalle & Koch Company in the position of bookkeeper, from which position he was advanced from time to time, until becoming the head of its credit and finance department. He proved himself fully worthy of the trust reposed in him, while his devotion to duty and close application to business were unusual. In forty years he took but eight days vacation.

On the 15th of June, 1892, Mr. May was married to Miss Jennie Ward of Mount Vernon, Ohio, and they are parents of four children: Virginia Clarissa, Rosalind Genevieve, John Joseph and Kathryn Ward. In addition to his pleasant home at No. 364 Rockingham street, Mr. May owns "Rose Lawn Farms'' - a valuable tract of two hundred and twenty-six acres in Springfield township, to which he gives his personal supervision and direction since retiring from commercial affairs.

Charges E.- Swartzbaugh

Toledo knew Charles E. Swartzbaugh as a citizen from 1897 to the time of his death, which occurred a quarter of a century later, and in that period recognized him as a progressive and reliable business man, dominated by a laudable ambition and inspired by a broad business vision. Ohio claims him as a native son, his birth having occurred in Lawrenceville, Clark county, in 1859. There he spent his early life, with the usual educational training of that locality and period, and after reaching young manhood ventured afield in order to try the business opportunities that might be secured elsewhere. He went to Buffalo, New York, where he continued until about 1897, when he came to Toledo. Through the intervening period he was one of the alert and energetic business men of this city. Here he organized the Toledo Cooker Company, of which he became president and in that position directed the activities and expansion of the business until his death. His plans were carefully formulated and promptly executed and his diligence and determination blazed the way to success.

Mr. Swartzbaugh was united in marriage to Miss Bessie Blackford and they became parents of six children: Charles E., Jr., Jason B., Isabelle, Mildred, Richard and Frances. The family residence was at No. 2203 Hollywood avenue and Mr. Swartzbaugh's interests centered at his own fireside, his greatest happiness being found in ministering to the comfort and welfare of the members of his own household. At the same time he never neglected his duties and obligations in other relations of life. He was a consistent member of Sanford L. Collins Lodge, F. & A. M., and he belonged to the Collingwood Presbyterian church, of which he was a loyal member and generous supporter. He also had membership in the Toledo Club and in the Inverness Club and his social qualties made him popular with those with whom he came into contact. He belonged likewise to the Chamber of Commerce and was interested in all of the projects of that organization to benefit the city along lines of material upbuilding, business expansion and civic progress. When he passed away he left behind him many friends who esteemed him not only for the success he had achieved but for the sterling traits of character which he manifested in every relation of life. His demise occurred on the 27th of April, 1922:

Alfred W. Reiser is a member of a family that has figured prominently in business circles of Toledo for the past thirty-eight years, being formerly president of The Reidon Company, one of the large manufacturing industries of the city. He was born in Perrysburg, Ohio, February 10, 1883, a son of Vincent and Mary (Raddick) Reiser, the former also a native of that place, while the latter was born in New York city. As a child Mrs. Reiser came with her parents to Ohio and in this state she was reared, educated and married. In 1884 the father entered commercial circles of Toledo and he is still actively connected with business interests of the city. The mother is also living. Seven children were born of their union: J. G., a photographer, and George F., manager of The Personal Employment Bureau, both residents of Toledo; Irving W., chief construction engineer for the Owens Bottle Company of this city; and Mrs. H. E. Beard, Mrs. Edward Shifler, Mrs. Edward Gunlite and Alfred W., all of Toledo.

In the acquirement of an education Alfred W. Reiser attended the grammar and high schools of Toledo and afterward became a student at the Polytechiic School, from which he was graduated. On the Ist of May, 1901, he entered the employ of The Western Gas Fixture Company, and that his services were highly appreciated is indicated in the fact that he became a director of the firm five years later, when he was but twenty-three years of age, while in 1908 he was made secretary. He continued to fill that office until he sold his interest in the concern and on the 6th of September, 1919, he organized The Reidon Company, of which he held the position of president and general manager. On June 24, 1922, he bought the entire interest of the above company and is now sole owner of the business, which is known as A. W. Reiser, being located at 127 and 129 Huron street. The concern manufactures electric lighting fixtures and since its inception the undertaking has enjoyed a steady and healthful growth, from thirty to forty people now being employed in the operation of the plant. Mr. Reiser has been watchful of every opportunity pointing toward success and his intelligently directed efforts have been attended by gratifying results. He also has other business interests, being a director of the Lucas County Mortgage Company.

On November 30, 1911, Mr. Reiser was married to Miss Emily A. Schneider, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. August Schneider of this city, and they have two daughters: Berniece, born in 1914; and Florrene, borne in 1917. Both are attending the public schools.

Mr. and Mrs. Reiser are members of St. Mathew's Evangelical Lutheran church and in his political views he is an independent republican. He is a member of the Toledo Club and is prominent in fraternal circles, belonging to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, to the chapter in Masonry, and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he is a past grand and also a field officer, being adjutant of the First Regiment, ranking as captain, while he is likewise connected with the Rebekahs, an auxiliary of the order. Mr. Reiser is a self-made man in whose vocabulary there is no such word as fail. He has ever recognized the fact that each day and hour has its opportunity and that effort, intelligently put forth, must ultimately win its reward, and his labors have found culmination in the development of a large productive enterprise which is a factor in the commercial upbuilding of the city, as well as a source of individual profit. Mr. Reiser resides at No, 109 Rosalind place.

Joseph W. Lane

Joseph W. Lane is numbered among the leading members of the Toledo bar and his adherence to high professional standards has won for him the respect and confidence of his fellow practitioners and also of the general public. He was born at Fort Seneca, Ohio, April 22, 1872, and his parents were Joseph W. and Mary E. (Edwards) Lane, both of whom were also natives of the Buckeye state, in which they spent their lives. His father died when he was very young, and his mother passed away recently.

Joseph W. Lane attended the public schools of Seneca county, Ohio, after which he was employed in a clerical capacity in various mercantile establishments of Toledo. He then took up the study of law in the office of F. W. Rickenbough, a well known attorney of this city, and in October, 1896, was admitted to the bar and became a member of the firm of Rickenbough and Lane, which continued until the death of Mr. Rickenbough. In 1914 he became a member of the firm of Geer & Lane, with which he has since been connected.

Mr. Lane has been married twice. On the 25th of. June, 1902, he wedded Miss Mary E. Holder, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George L. Holder, residents of this city. Mrs. Lane died in 1914. In 1917 Mr. Lane married Cora B. Louden, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Mapes.

Mr. and Mrs. Lane are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and he is a republican in his political views. He is a member of the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, the Toledo Yacht Club, the Sylvania Golf Club and the Toledo Automobile Club. His professional relations are with the Lucas County and Ohio State Bar associations and he is a member of all Toledo Masonic bodies and of the Knights of Pythias.

William W. Smith

William W. Smith, president of the J. W. Greene Company, dealers in musical instruments and musical merchandise, has long been associated with the commercial interests of Toledo in this way, having come to the city in 1896. He was born in Fremont, Ohio, April 6, 1872, and is a son of William J. and Laura (Greene) Smith. The father was a farmer by occupation, devoting his life to that pursuit in order to provide for the support of his family.

William W. Smith obtained a public school education and afterward took up the profession of teaching, which he successfully followed for a time, proving capable and efficient in the schoolroom, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge that he had acquired. Thinking to find business opportunities, how- ever, that would bring a more speedy financial return, he came to Toledo in 1896 and here entered into active assuciaticn with his maternal uncle, J. W. Greene, owner of a music store. For a number of years he traveled for the J. W. Greene Company and upon the incorporation of the business in 1899 he was elected the secretary and treasurer. He has remained one of the officials thereof and is now president. For more than a quarter of a century he has been identified with this house and the business throughout the period has steadily grown and developed, its trade increasing consistently year by year as the result of the keen business sagacity and unfaltering enterprise of the men at its head. There have been no esoteric phases in the career of William W. Smith, whose progress has been the logical outcome of his perseverance, his energy and capability.

The year which witnessed Mr. Smith's arrival in Toledo and his connection with the Greene music house also saw the establishment of a home of his own, for it was on the 12th of November, 1896, that he was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Havens of Fremont, Ohio. They are members of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal church, interested in its work and doing all in their power to further its progress. Mr. Smith is also a member of the Toledo Club, the Inverness Club, the Rotary Club and the Commerce Club, and is also a Knight of Pythias. His interests are broad in scope, covering all those activities which have to do with the city's upbuilding, progress and welfare.

Luther Merwin Cooley

Important commercial interests are under the direct supervision of Luther Merwin Cooley in his position as treasurer and general manager of the Cooley Drug Company of Toledo. A man of well balanced capacities and powers, he has Jong occupied a central place on the stage of action and his labors have found culmination in the development of a corporation which now controls a chain of stores and is constantly reaching out through its ramifying trade relations into broader territory and gaining a firmer hold upon public patronage through progressive and reliable business methods. Mr. Cooley has reversed the usual order of things by becoming a resident of Ohio. The tide of emigration has long been westward, but he did not follow the injunction of Horace Greeley to go west. Born in Brookville, Kansas, on the 11th of November, 1877, he is a son of Eli S. and Ella F. (Merwin) Cooley, . who were farming people of that locality, so that his youthful days were spent amid the surroundings of agricultural life. The public schools accorded him his early educational opportunities and later he took up the study of pharmacy in St. Louis, Missouri, where he remained for a year. It was in July, 1901, that he arrived in Toledo, where he purchased a drug store and through the intervening period his business has been steadily developed and expanded until he is now the owner of five retail establishments and one wholesale drug house conducted under the name of The Cooley Drug Company, of which he is the treasurer and manager. Having these different establishments, he is able to buy most advantageously and gives the public the benefit thereof. His prices are at all times reasonabie and earnest effort put forth to please his patrons has secured for him a volume of business that is most gratifying. He is likewise the vice president of the Squire-Cooley Company engaged in book publication, and in all business affairs he displays notably pond judgment and keen discrimination, enabling him readily to separate the vital and essential elements of business from those that are of little worth.

In December, 1902, Mr. Cooley was married to Miss Mary E. Daugherty of Brookville, Kansas, and they have two children: Edith Merwin; and Ralph Rupert, born April 14, 1909. Mr. Cooley belongs to the Toledo Automobile Club, which indicates something of the nature of his recreation, as he greatly enjoys touring in his motor car. He belongs to the Credit Men's Association, to the Commerce Club, the Chamber of Commerce of the United States, the Ohio State Pharmaceutical Association, the Toledo Drug Club, and the National Association of Retail Druggists. Toledo has long since accepted him as a valuable asset in her business life and ranks him as a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. Huis residence is at No. 1116 Lincoln avenue.

Edward A. Florian

Edward A. Florian, a man of forcefulness, energy and determination, has had broad experience along business lines and has made his influence felt in insurance circles 6f Toledo, being one of the leading operators in this field. He was born in Fostoria, Ohio, May 27, 1874, and his parents, Joseph and Mary (Layman) Florian, were also natives of that city. The paternal grandfather removed from Buffalo, New York, to Ohio in 1812, becoming one of the early pioneers of the state, and he first located at Sandusky, later settling at Fostoria. His son, Joseph Florian, devoted his life to the occupation of farming and passed away in 1911 at the advanced age of eighty-six years, while the mother's demise occurred in 1916. They had a large family, becoming the parents of sixteen children, ten of whom survive, namely: Mrs. Caroline Wagner, Mrs. Minnie Eckert and Mrs. Theresa Rudke, all of whom are living in Detroit, Michigan; Mrs. Louise Studer and Miss Martha Florian of Fostoria; Mrs. Christine Faul, whose home is at Cleveland, this state; and Joseph, Albert G., Mrs. H. T. Beach, and Edward A. Florian, all of this city.

The public schools of Fostoria and Toledo afforded Edward A. Florian his educational privileges and his commercial training was received in the David Business College of this city. After completing his course in that institution he secured a position with Chris Nopper, engaged in the hat and fur business, and remained with him for seven and a half years. He next entered the service of the Wertz-Kirk Hat Company, with which he was connected for six and a half years, and on the expiration of that period he embarked in the men's furnishing business, opening a store on South St. Clair street. This he conducted successfully for fifteen years and then sold to become secretary of the Corn City Savings Association, entering upon the duties of that office in 1907. He is now also at the head of the firm of E. Florian & Son, fire insurance. They represent the strongest and best known organizations in the field, acting as agents for the Southern Surety Company, the Hartford Fire Insurance Company, the Imperial Insurance Company, the Standard Insurance Company, the Citizens Insurance Company, the Insurance Company of North America and several others. They have established an enviable reputation for reliability and straightforward dealing and theirs is one of the leading insurance firms in the city. Mr. Forian is also interested in the Percentum Company, of which he is one of the directors. He is also the head of the Morgan Glove Company, manufacturers of canvas gloves.

On the 18th of June, 1895, Mr. Florian was married to Miss Jennie C. Metzger, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Metzger, prominent residents of this city, and they have become the parents of a son, Carl J. Florian, who was born in September, 1899, and is now a partner in his father's business. He married Miss Edith Redding, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Redding.

Mr. Florian is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church and a third degree Knight of Columbus. He is a member of the Sylvania Golf Club, the Maumee River Yacht Club and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. His business career has been marked by continuous advancement, for he has ever realized the fact that there is no progress without labor and has never feared to venture when a favorable opportunity was presented. In the fullness of time he has reaped the reward of earnest systematic effort, sound judgment and perseverance and is now numbered among Toledo's representative business men and valued citizens.

William G. Manning

William G. Manning, treasurer of the Toledo Plaster & Supply Company, has throughout his life been actuated by a spirit of energy and determination which has enabled him to advance steadily, step by step in his business career until he now ranks with the men of important business interests in his adopted city. Mr. Manning is a native of Michigan, his birth having occurred in Dansville, Ingham county, on the 28th of April, 1866, his parents being William H. and Permillie G. (Groat) Manning. The father was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and, while devoting his life to that holy calling, he also owned and conducted a farm.

The son pursued a public school education and afterward continued his studies in the Ferris Institute at Big Rapids, Michigan. Later he became a clerk in a dry goods store, where he remained for three years and was then advanced to the position of accountant, acting in that capacity for four years. In 1902 he came to Toledo, where he entered the employ of The Lamson Brothers Company, owners of a dry goods store, and in their establishment he acted as department manager for seven years and was in charge of their credit department for a period of six years. It will thus be seen that each change in his career has marked a forward step, bringing him a broader outlook and wider opportunities. He has improved every chance for advancement, never fearing to venture. where favoring opportunity pointed out the way, and his resolute spirit and indefatigable energy have guided him to a most creditable position in the business circles of the city. He has been identified with his present line of business for four years. This was first the Toledo Pulp Plaster Company, of which he became treasurer, and with the incorporation of the business under the name of the Toledo Plaster & Supply Company he continued to act as treasurer and is still in that postion. The business is now one of substantial proportions and as an executive Mr. Manning is contributing in substantial measure to the growth and success of the undertaking. He is likewise a director of the Detroit Fire Brick Company.

On the 7th of October, 1890, Mr. Manning was married to Miss Lillian D. Cassell of Grand Rapids, Michigan. They reside at No. 2635 Parkwood avenue. They are members of the Second Church of Christ Scientist, in which he has served as a trustee and as a first reader, and he is interested in all those forces which make for the uplift of the individual and the benefit of the community at large. Moreover, his business record illustrates what can be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do and his life history should serve to inspire and encourage others who start out in the business world as he did, without capital or special advantages, but who through individual merit and capability work their

Sigmond Sanger

Sigmond Sanger, member of the Toledo bar and also identified with many interests which directly affect the welfare, progress and happiness of the community at large, was born August 5, 1873, in Austria-Hungary, a son of Sol and Pauline (Klein) Sanger. He obtained a public school education in the schools of Toledo, for he was but a young lad when brought to the new world. Passing through consecutive grades, he was graduated with the class of 1889 of the Toledo high school, and then, having determined to make the practice of law his life work, he became a student in the University of Michigan, where he won the LL. B. degree as a member of the class of 1899. Immediately after his return to Toledo he entered upon active practice, and since 1910 has practiced as a member of the firm of Brown, Hahn & Sanger, occupying an enviable position in the legal circles of Toledo.

During the World war Mr. Sanger took an active interest in upholding the government and promoting the work growing out of war conditions. He was ward chairman during the Third, Fourth and Victory Loan drives and also was active as a member of the War Savings and War Chest committees. He has been a close student of modern-day conditions and is ever seeking to support justice and the right. During the war he was also chairman of a rent profiteering committee, seeking to prevent excessive rents, and also served on a committee to aid war risk insurance cases.

Mr. Sanger was married in 1919, to Margaret H. Dreyfus. Questions of public interest have been closely studied by him and at all times he keeps abreast with the best thinking men of the age concerning political, sociological and economic conditions. Since 1919 he has been president of the Toledo Public Library and is doing effective work in upholding and maintaining the high standards of this organization. He belongs to the Toledo and Ohio Bar associations and he commands at all times the respect and confidence of his colleagues and: contemporaries in the profession as well as of the general public.

Samuel Bryant Wood

Samuel Bryant Wood, the vice president of one of the leading real estate companies of Toledo - that of the George B. Ricaby Company - and also the vice president of the George B. Ricaby Company, Inc., of Buffalo, New York, is an active and energetic figure in real estate circles and one whose wisely directed efforts are bringing to him a substantial measure of success. Toledo numbers ° him among her native sons, his birth having occurred on the 2d of February, 1891, his parents being Harry D. and Julia (Mitchell) Wood. While spending his youthful days under the parental roof he attended the public schools and afterward pursued his studies in a preparatory school. When his textbooks were put aside he entered the real estate field in 1910 and a little later became associated with the George B. Ricaby Company, with which he has worked steadily upward until he is now the vice president of this concern, which is one of the oldest and strongest real estate companies of Toledo. He has gained wide experience and there are few men more thoroughly informed concerning realty values and the condition of the market. He has promoted many important realty transfers and his success is due to his close application, his earnest study, his persistency, his initiative and his indefatigable energy. He is vice president of the Ricaby-Wood- Rowland Company, general insurance.

Mr. Wood is a veteran of the World war. He enlisted in 1917, becoming a first lieutenant, and he served with the infantry, cavalry and artillery forces, being mustered out in December, 1918, with the rank of captain.

On the Ist of October, 1919, Mr. Wood was married to Miss Lois Morton and they have two children: Marybelle and Phyllis. Mr. Wood belongs to the Inverness, Toledo and Toledo Automobile clubs and is thus well known in club circles of the city. He likewise is connected with the Chamber of Commerce and is in full sympathy with the purposes of that organization to upbuild Toledo, to extend its business relations and to uphold its civic standards. He is also a member of the Toledo Real Estate Board. He is at all times actuated by a spirit of progressiveness in relation to public affairs as well as business and he has made for himself a creditable position in the regard of his fellow citizens.

Gustavus Adolphus Gessner

Gustavus Adolphus Gessner, president and general manager of the Gessner Company, was born in Fremont, Ohio, August 19, 1869, his parents being Dr. Gustavus Adolphus and Corolen Elizabeth (Lawton) Gessner. The father was a physician, engaging in practice for many years at Fremont, Ohio. On the paternal side he came of a long line of physicians and there were also many representatives of the medical profession among his ancestry on the maternal side. Among his forebears there were also those who served for the cause of independence in the Revolutionary war.

G. A. Gessner, Jr., obtained a high school education at Fremont, Ohio, spent one year at Oberlin College and then entered the Lehigh University School of Mines of Pennsylvania, which he attended for three years. He was afterward assistant engineer at Ashtabula, Ohio, and on leaving that place went to Alexandria, Indiana, where he remained for nearly four years as city engineer. In 1899 he came to Toledo, where he filled the position of first assistant city engineer until May, 1900. In that year he became associated with the firm of Riggs & Sherman, consulting engineers, and in 1904 was admitted to a partnership in the business. In 1907 he obtained a leave of absence from the company and became resident engineer for the city in the construction of the city filtration plant, one of the first large plants of its kind in the country. In 1910 he was made resident engineer in charge of construction at the Cherry Street bridge and then from 1911 until 1914 he was again with the

Riggs & Sherman Company. In the latter year he became superintendent of the Toledo city waterworks department, which position he filled until June, 1915, when he resigned to organize the Gessner Company, general contractors, of which he is the president and general manager. This company does all kinds of engineering and construction work and its patronage has already become of extensive and gratifying proportions. As a city representative and in the private practice of his profession, Mr. Gessner has been identified with many important engineering projects demanding a high degree of efficiency and skill and in every particular he has been adequate to the demands made upon him. He is thoroughly familiar with the scientific principles as well as with the practical phases of the business and his position in engineering circles is now one of high rank.

On the 29th of June, 1897, Mr. Gessner was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Lydia Booth of Ashtabula, Ohio, a direct descendant in the eleventh generation of John Alden and Priscilla Mullins. They have become the parents of two children: Charles Booth, who was born on the 17th of February, 1905; and Elizabeth Lawton. Fraternally Mr. Gessner is a Royal Arch Mason and is also connected with the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and with a college fraternity - the Theta Delta Chi. He belongs to the Chamber of Commerce, which indicates his interest in community affairs and public progress, and through the maternal line he is eligible to and has membership in the Sons of the American Revolution. His public-spirited citizenship is an outstanding feature in his career, while the strongly marked characteristic of his business life has been the thoroughness with which he has mastered every task and acquainted himself with every principle that has to do with engineering projects. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. .

Dom As -P Day

Among the varied lines of business which contribute to the commercial activity and prosperity of Toledo is that of The Container Company, of which Thomas P. Day is the chief executive officer, and the present success of the enterprise is directly attributable to his progressive policy and to his carefully devised and promptly executed plans. He was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, November 23, 1883, a son of Thomas Powers and Lillie Kingston (Means) Day, who were also natives of the Keystone state. The father was a financier of marked ability and aided in organizing the Peoples National Bank of Pittsburgh, of which he was made president. He was recognized as one of the most substantial business men of the city and continued at the head of that institution until his death, which occurred in 1899, when he was forty-eight years of age. Mrs. Day is now a resident of Pittsburgh. They were the parents of two children: Thomas P.; and Florence Means, who married D. Utley of Pittsburgh.

In the acquirement of an education Thomas P. Day attended Shady Side Academy at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and later he was a student at Hotchkiss University at Lakeside, Connecticut. His initial business experience was obtained as messenger for the Peoples National Bank of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and his faithfulness and ability led to his promotion to the position of discount clerk. He remained with the bank until 1909, when he came to Toledo and entered the employ of the C. A. King Grain Company, with which he was identified until

1916, when he assisted in organizing The Container Company, of which he was made secretary. He continued to fill that office until 1919, when he was made president, treasurer and manager, and has continued to serve in those capacities. The firm engages in the manufacture of fibre pails and since its inception the business has enjoyed a steady growth, from thirty-five to fifty men now being employed in the operation of the plant. Mr. Day carefully supervises every detail of the business, while he also has the ability to see clearly its larger aspects, and has been farsighted in directing the policy of the concern. '

On the 4th of September, 1907, Mr. Day was married to Miss Miriam King, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank I. King of Toledo, and they have a daughter, Jane, who was born in 1909 and is attending the Smead school. When national issues are at stake Mr. Day casts his ballot in favor of the candidates of the republican party, but at local elections he votes for the man whom he deems best fitted for office, regardless of party ties. He is a member of the Toledo Commerce Club, the Rotary Club and the Toledo Country Club. His life record commands uniform respect and confidence. His ability and energy have constituted the materials with which he has constructed his success and he has never deviated from the course which the world regards as right in the relations between man and his fellowmen, adhering closely to the rules which govern strict integrity and unabating industry. In matters of citizenship he is public-spirited and progressive and his cooperation can a:ways be counted upon in support of those movements which have for their object the upbuilding and advancement of the city.

William Bernard Hillebrand

Much of the commercial prestige which Toledo today enjoys is directly attributable to the civic loyalty and business enterprise of her native sons, whose well directed efforts have constituted a most important element in the upbuilding and development of the city. To this class belongs William Bernard Hillebrand, who for eighteen years has devoted his attention to the building and contracting business, and while he has gained individual prosperity, his labors have also contributed materially to the improvement and advancement of his city. He was born in Toledo, June 29, 1881, and his parents were Frank J. C. and Christina (Meyer) Hillebrand, the former a native of Cincinnati and the latter of Toledo. The father became a member of the firm of Hillebrand Brothers, conducting one of the largest furniture establishments of Toledo, and he is still a resident of the city, while the mother is also living. Six children have been born of their marriage: Leo S., whose biographical record appears elsewhere in this work ; William Bernard; Frank B., whose home is in Detroit, Michigan; Mrs. Richard F. Schneider of Toledo; Sister Mary Constance, who is connected with Mercy Hospital of Ann Arbor; and Cletus, who has passed away.

In the acquirement of an education William Bernard Hillebrand attended St. Peter's parochial school and the Tri-State Business College of Toledo and following his graduation from the latter institution he secured a clerical position with the John Mockett Company, well known clothiers of this city, with whom he remained for a short time. He then entered the employ of The Schillinger Brothers Company but left. their service at the end of ten months to embark in business on his own account and on the 23d of May, 1906, he became a member of the firm of Hummel

& Hillebrand, his partner being William A. Hummel, a prominent business man of - this city. They specialize in concrete construction work and rank with the leading building contractors of the city. They own a large tract of land, on which they have their offices and equipment, and many examples of their skill and handiwork are to be found in Toledo. Their reputation has spread beyond the limits of the city and they have been awarded important contracts in various parts of the country. They have about one hundred employes and their business is a large and rapidly growing one.

On the 23d of May, 1911, Mr. Hillebrand was married to Miss Mary A. Werle, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Werle of Toledo, and they have become the parents of four children: Helen, who was born June 27, 1912, and is attending St. Patrick's parochial school of this city; Lucille, who was born September 14, 1913, and is also a pupil at that school; William, born April 14, 1917; and Leonard, born June 27, 1919. Mr. and Mrs. Hillebrand are communicants of the Roman Catholic church and he is a member of the Knights of Columbus, in which he has taken the third degree. He is also identified with the Builders Exchange, the Commerce Club and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, while his political allegiance is given to the republican party. Mr. Hillebrand is a self-made man who has been both the architect and builder of his own fortune, and the methods which he has used have at all times balanced up with the principles of honor and integrity. He occupies a position of leadership in the field in which he is operating, and his work, which is of high character and uniform excellence, is a credit to the city and a feature in its substantial improvement. Mr. Hillebrand's residence is at No. 427 Belmont avenue.

F. M. Fuller

F. M. Fuller of The Pomeroy-Fuller Company, is one of Toledo's prominent realtors. He was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania, October 19, 1879, a son of A. M. and Elizabeth (Magaw) Fuller, the former a native of Little Falls, New York, and the latter of Meadville, Pennsylvania. They are now residing in the 'Keystone state and the father is a successful financier.

In the acquirement of an education F, M. Fuller attended the public schools of Meadville, Pennsylvania, and Worcester Academy of Massachusetts, afterward entering the University of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1901. In 1912 he came to Toledo and in 1913 joined Mr. Geo. E. Pomeroy, when he turned his attention to the real estate and insurance business, with which he has since been prominently identified.

The Pomeroy-Fuller Company is the oldest real estate and insurance firm in Toledo and enjoys a reputation for straightforward business methods and general commercial integrity not surpassed by any of its contemporaries. Mr. Fuller has made a close study of the business, to which he gives his undivided attention, and his cooperation has been a valuable asset in the attainment of the success which has attended the activities of the company.

In New York city, on the 29th of December, 1909, Mr. Fuller married Miss Marjorie Carolin, a daughter of William V. and Louise ( Mott) Carolin, a granddaughter of Valentine Mott, the famous surgeon of that city, and they have become the parents of two children: Edward Holcomb, whose birth occurred at Meadville,

Pennsylvania, in 1911; and Elizabeth Dauton, who was born in this city in 1913. Mr. and Mrs. Fuller are affiliated with the Trinity Episcopal church. He is a republican in his political views and is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club and is also connected with the Commerce Club and the Transportation Club. He has led an active and useful life, employing every opportunity to advance, and his present success is largely attributable to his close application and devotion to business. He has an intimate knowledge of realty values in this city, where his progressive spirit and business ability are recognized, as well as his high position among the leaders in his line of activity. Mr. Fuller's residence is at No. 2553 Robinwood avenue.

Harry Wayne Morgan

Harry Wayne Morgan, a partner in the law firm of Brown, Geddes, Schmettau & Williams, was born in Toledo, July 11, 1886. The public and high schools afforded him his preliminary educational opportunities and he afterward entered the University of Michigan as a law student in 1908, being there graduated with the class of 1910. During his college days he was associate editor of the Michigan Law Review and he won his Bachelor of Arts degree and also his J. D. degree from the University of Michigan. Following his graduation he entered upon general practice and was associated with the firm of King, Tracy, Chapman & Wells from 1910 until 1915. He was then alone in general practice until 1917, when he became associated with the firm of Brown, Geddes, Schmettau & Williams, and in January, 1918, was made a member of the firm. He has since practiced in this connection, being a representative of one of the strongest law firms not only of Toledo and northwestern Ohio but of the state. He belongs to the Lucas County and Ohio State Bar associations.

On the Ist of July, 1911, Mr. Morgan was married to Miss Stella Stollberg of Toledo and they have become parents of three children: John Howard, Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Jeanette. In his fraternal relations Mr. Morgan is a Mason and he belongs also to the Toledo Club and the Toledo Country Club. He is likewise a member of the Chamber of Commerce and his interest centers in those channels through which flow the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number, his progressive citizenship being one of the strong features in his career. His enviable record as a lawyer has been well earned and the progress that he has made in the past indicates that his future will be well worth watching.

Thomas Ignatius Wilson

By the way of the printing trade and commercial pursuits Thomas Ignatius Wilson has at length arrived in the real estate field and since 1914 has been the president of the T. I. Wilson Company. Through the intervening period of eight years a business of substantial proportions has been developed and the real estate records show many important property transfers promoted by this corporation. Mr. Wilson is a native son of Toledo, born on the 28th of April, 1883, his parents

The son, Thomas I. Wilson, was educated in St. Francis de Sales parochial school and early in life turned his attention to the newspaper business by becoming a printer's devil in a newspaper office, with which he was connected for six years, steadily working his way upward from his initial starting point. He afterward became a salesman with a paint company and again his course was marked by steady progress and advancement until he was made the district sales manager. Later he turned his attention to real estate operations and in 1914 organized the T. I. Wilson Company, the activities of which he has directed for the past eight years as its president. He is also a director of The Ten Associates Company, a real estate corporation of which he was one of the organizers. His name is a familiar one in realty circles throughout Toledo and the progressiveness of his methods is widely recognized, while his continued success also has its root in his close application, determined purpose and sound judgment.

On the 20th of June, 1914, Mr. Wilson was married to Miss Anna M. McCullen of Toledo and they had one daughter, Mary Elizabeth. The wife and mother passed away February 10, 1918, her death being deeply regretted by many friends. Mr. Wilson belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and has become a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He is also connected with the Commerce Club, belongs to the Toledo Automobile Club and to the Art Museum. He favors all those agencies and projects which are looking to the upbuilding of the city and its advancement along material and cultural lines. For recreation he turns to outdoor sports, but the major part of his time and attention is concentrated upon his business and he ranks today among the leading realtors of his native city.

Katherine M. Mapes

Thoroughly trained along professional lines, Katherine M. Mapes is now occupying the very responsible position of superintendent of the Municipal Hospital at Toledo. She is a native of Bryan, Williams county, Ohio, and a daughter of Samuel R. and Sarah A. (Lingle) Mapes. She attended the public schools of her native town and after a few years at home following the completion of her educational course, she came to Toledo in 1898, having in the meantime determined to enter upon preparation for a career as nurse. She entered the Toledo Hospital Training School for Nurses and completed the regular two years' course by graduation with the class of 1900. Almost immediately afterward she was made supervisor of the operating room at the Toledo Hospital, where she remained for several years. Following this she was appointed superintendent of the Deaconess Hospital on Robinwood avenue, later called the Flower Hospital, and afterward returned to the Toledo Hospital, becoming supervisor of the operating room, with which she was thus associated for a year. She left that position in 1911 to become superintendent of the training school of the Toledo Hospital and did effective work in that connection for a period of five years. She next went to the City Hospital at Lima, Ohio, expecting to relieve the superintendent there for three months, © but remained for ten months. With her return to Toledo she was given charge of the teaching center under the Red Cross and continued to act as supervisor of

Again coming to Toledo, Miss Mapes accepted the position of chief nurse at the Overland Hospital, where she remained for a year, after which she took a two years' rest, living at home with her mother. On the Ist of April, 1922, however, she again resumed professional duties and activities, being appointed superintendent of the Municipal Hospital by Mayor Brough. She brought to her present position a wealth of experience and broad knowledge and is rendering most effective service in this institution. She has been instrumental in introducing improved methods and the work of the hospital has been thoroughly systematized under her care.

Miss Mapes holds membership in the Epworth Methodist church and is also a valued member of the Toledo Woman's Club and a charter member of the Delphians. She is the honored president of District No. 9 of the Ohio State Graduate Nurses Association'and she belongs to both the state and national nurses' associations. She is likewise a member of the National League of Nursing Education and is identified with the American Legion as a member of the Kuhlman Saygers Pollock Post, which was organized in honor of nurses from Toledo who served during the World war and died in the service. Miss Mapes holds to the highest standards of her profession and is most zealous and earnest in the performance of her duties. Her personal qualities are such as to inspire confidence and cooperation from her patients, as she adds cheeriness and a courageous disposition to splendid poise.

Harry Talbird Foard

_ Harry Talbird Foard, one of the leading restaurateurs of Toledo, has devoted practically his entire life to the business in which he is now engaged and his success is the direct outcome of broad experience, industry and ability. Mr. Foard is a native of the south. He was born at Henderson, Kentucky, April 15, 1870, a son of Moses D. and Sammie (Smith) Foard, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Kentucky. Asa youth the father removed to the Blue Grass state, in which his marriage occurred, and he later engaged in the hardware business, successfully conducting a large establishment of that character at Henderson, Kentucky, until the time of his demise. The mother has also passed away. In their family were five children: W. D. and Mattie, both of whom are living at Owenton, Kentucky ; Clarence S., cashier for the Edison Company, of Chicago, Illinois; Jessie, deceased ; and Harry T.

The public schools of his native town afforded Harry Talbird Foard his educational opportunities and during the administration of President Cleveland he served as assistant postmaster of Owenton, Kentucky. On the expiration of his term he came to Toledo, where he entered business circles, at first conducting the Madison Hotel, while later he became chief clerk of the St. Charles Hotel, which position he filled successfully for seven years. He then went to Chicago and became connected with the dining car service of the Pennsylvania and New York Central Railroad _ companies, with which he was identified until 1916. Returning to Toledo, he opened the Waidorf Cafeteria in the Waldorf Hotel and his marked success in that venture led him to establish another cafeteria, his second location being at No. 239 Superior street. He is president of Foard's Cafeteria, and is operating two of the largest, best conducted and most widely patronized eating places in the city. His cafeterias have become popular with those of discriminating taste who prefer food of highest quality, prepared in a most appetizing form, and the standard of service is unexcelled. Mr. Foard has an economic knowledge of food values and in the control of his business he displays sound judgment, foresight and marked executive ability. Until 1922 he was president and one of the directors of the Waldorf Catering Company and he is now serving as first vice president and a director of the Ohio State Restaurant Men's Association.

On the 27th of December, 1898, Mr. Foard was united in marriage to Miss Sara Davies, who ably assists her husband in the management of the business. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Davies, are members of one of Toledo's most prominent families. Mr. Foard is a Knights Templar Mason and Noble of the Mystic Shrine and he is also a valued member of the Toledo Chamber of Commerce and the Exchange Club. He is a self-made man whose career has been marked by steady advancement, due to his close study of the business to which he has turned his attention and his unquestioned integrity and reliability, and his influence is one of broadening activity and strength in the field in which he is operating, while his personal qualities are such as make for warm and enduring friendship.

Dr. Ira O. Denman, a prominent physician and surgeon of Toledo, maintaining his offices in the Ohio building, has here followed his profession continuously and successfully during the past fifteen years and has made a specialty of the treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat. His birth occurred at Leanna, Kansas, on the 9th of June, 1873, his parents being Francis M. and Lydia (Harding) Denman, both natives of Indiana. The father enlisted for service in the Civil war, joining the Ninety-seventh Illinois Volunteer Regiment, | and was commissioned a captain. He participated in many notable engagements but was never wounded and after receiving his discharge he went to Kansas, where he took up a soldier's claim, on which he engaged in the raising of cattle, while later he developed a large nursery. Subsequently he removed to Charleston, IIlinois, but afterward went to California, hoping that a milder climate might restore his health, and his demise occurred in the Golden state in 1905. The mother had passed away at Charleston, Illinois, in 1900. Of the children born to their union two are living: George A. and Ira O., of this review.

Ira O. Denman supplemented his preliminary education by a course of study in the Allen County Normal School at Iola, Kansas, while his professional training was received in the Hahnemann Medical College of Chicago, from which he was graduated with the M. D. degree in 1897. Since then he has pursued postgraduate work in the Chicago Post Graduate Medical College, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical College and in the universities of Vienna and Freiberg, as well as in Morfield's Hospital of London, England, thus constantly augmenting his professional skill and ability. He first opened an office for the general practice of medicine and surgery at Charleston, Illinois, where he continued until the close of the year 1907, devoting considerable attention to diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat. In January, 1908, he came to

Toledo, where he has remained since and where his practice has been limited to ophthalmology, otology, rhinology and laryngology, in which branch of the profession he has become widely recognized as a specialist of pronounced power and efficiency. He served as chief of staff of the Toledo Hospital for two years, or from 1913 until 1915, and is oculist for the Pennsylvania Railroad, the Detroit & Toledo Shore Line Railroad and the Toledo, St. Louis & Western Railway. While a resident of Charleston, Illinois, he acted as chairman of the board of health from 1903 until 1907. He has membership connections with the American {Institute of Homeopathy, the Illinois State Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, the Northwestern Ohio Medical Society, of which he was at one time president, the Toledo Medical Society and the American Ophthalmological, Otological and Laryngological Association, of which he has been secretary and also president, serving in the latter capacity in 1918 and 1919. He is likewise identified with the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Oto-Laryngology, and has been elected to the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Denman originated technique and designed a chair for tonsillectomy under nitrous oxide and oxygen gas anesthesia, the patient in the forward inclined sitting posture. He has been frequently invited to demonstrate his original method and in 1920 appeared and operated before the American College of Surgeons at Montreal, subsequently before the American Ophthalmological and Oto-Laryngological Society in New York, the combined meeting at Columbus, Ohio, in 1922, of The Interstate Society of Anesthesists and National Research Society of Anesthesia and later San Francisco before the surgical section of the American Medical Association. ;

On the 14th of September, 1893, Dr. Denman was united in marriage to Miss Sabra Blair of Leanna, Kansas, and they reside at No. 2562 Parkwood avenue in Toledo, where they have gained an extensive circle of warm friends. The Doctor gives his political allegiance to the republican party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Christian (Disciples) church. He also belongs to the Toledo Club, the Toledo Yacht Club, the Toledo Commerce Club and the Inverness Golf Club of this city and likewise holds membership in the Unanimous Club of New York. His life has been actuated by a progressive spirit that has brought him steadily to the front in professional connections and it has ever been his purpose to make his services of the greatest possible benefit to his fellowmen.

Arnold John Machen

Arnold John Machen, president of The Arnold J. Machen Company, is one of Toledo's well known and successful realtors. While not yet a man of middle age Mr. Machen's life has been a busy one and includes an identification with banking interests and more than ten years with the real estate business. He was born in Toledo, September 28, 1890, his parents being Alphonse and Adelaide D. (Conlisk) Machen, the former a merchant of Toledo for many years.

Arnold John Machen acquired his education in the public schools, and after completing his high school work, he entered on his business career. He was first employed as a bank messenger in the Home Savings Bank, where his fidelity and capability won him promotion until he was made manager of the bookkeeping, transit and clearing department of that institution. He was thus engaged until

Arnold J. Machen

1911, when he turned his attention to the real estate field, becoming associated with The E. H. Close Realty Company, and four years later he was made the assistant treasurer of the George B. Ricaby Company, one of the foremost concerns in the real estate field of Toledo. In 1921 he was elected vice president of that company and took a prominent part in its management, until October 25, 1922, when he severed his connection to organize The Arnold J. Machen Company, for the conduct of a general real estate business on conservative lines. The officials of the company are: Mr. Machen, president; Vernon C. Vogel, vice president and secretary; and Paul E. Decker, vice president and treasurer, representing one, of the strongest organizations in the real estate business in Toledo. Mr. Machen is devoting his efforts to administrative direction and executive control, and his success is well merited. His vision is broad and his judgment sound in relation to those matters which claim the attention and demand the energies of the successful real estate man.» During his connection of more than a decade with the real estate business in Toledo, Mr. Machen has acquired a very intimate knowledge of realty values on which his judgment is most dependable. He enjoys athletic sports and in these finds needed recreation from the arduous cares of business life.