Washington Township (part 11 of 21)

Michael Cahill pursued his education in the country schools, in the normal school for one year and in the high school at Lewisburg, Ohio. During the periods of vacation he worked upon a farm and in a brickyard, and the money thus acquired enabled him to continue his studies. Realizing the importance of education he gained a broad and practical general knowledge to serve as a firm foundation upon which to rear the superstructure of professional learning. He has successfully engaged in teaching at different intervals between the years 1884 and 1898, and displayed excellent ability as an educator. He has also been employed in a dry-goods store and has worked as a stone cutter. It was his desire, however, to enter professional life, and these various occupations have been used only as a means to an end. Fie began reading law in 1880, under the direction of I. JL Freeman and James A. Gilmore, pursuing his studies at night. His home was at Lewisburg, ten miles from the place where he pursued his studies, and in order to receive instructions he traveled that distance. In the fall of 1889 he was elected a justice of the peace of Harrison township and capably and impartially discharged the duties of the office until November, 1892, when he resigned in order to enter the Cincinnati Law School. Successfully passing the examinations, he was enrolled as a member of the senior class and was graduated in the spring of 1893, after which he was immediately admitted to the bar. The class chartered a car going to Columbus, where they took the necessary examination for admission, and Mr. Cahill was among the number licensed to practice.

where he opened a law and real-estate office; but the hard times which followed caused him to lose all that he had made. He then went to Lewisburg, where he remained until the fall of 1899, when he was elected prosecuting atorney for Preble county. He had served as a corporation clerk at Lewisburg and also as a justice of the peace. In June, 1900, he formed a partnership with Hon. A. M. Crisler, in the practice of law.

On the 14th of July, 1889, Mr. Cahill was united in marriage to Miss M. Belle Mills, a daughter of Jewett Mills, of Montgomery county. They now have one child, Clyde. Mr. Cahill certainly deserves great credit for his success in life, for what he has accomplished is the result of determined purpose and unflagging energy, whereby he has steadily worked his way upward in the face of many difficulties and obstacles, his resolute will enabling him to overcome all these and to-day he occupies a creditable position at the bar. He is an example of the boys who educate themselves and secure their own start in life - determined, self-reliant boys, willing to work for advancement which others secure through inheritance, destined by sheer force of character to succeed in the face of all opposition and to push to the front in one branch of enterprise or another. As a member of the legal profession he has displayed marked ability. Pie prepares his cases with great thoroughness and precision and in argument is logical, strong and convincing.

Hon. Griffin Pi. Eidson

There has been no man of Eaton more widely and honorably known than Griffin PI. Eidson, whose name is almost synonymous with that of the city, owing to the fact that his efforts have greatly advanced its material interests and its progress along social and moral lines. As practical politics claimed much of his time while he was a Republican in early life, and later a Democrat, his political services must necessarily be held secondary to those of much greater importance, his public spirit, progressiveness and liberality. In business he was very active, and at all times his career was characterized by the strictest fidelity to the ethics of commercial life. He belonged to that class of Americans who while promoting individual prosperity also advance the general good. Friendship was to him inviolable, and many are those who have obtained from him kindly counsel and generous assistance. He died March 29, 1897, and no death in Eaton has been more deeply mourned. However, the veil was lifted to gain the new glory of the true and beautiful life when death set the seal upon his mortal lips. Any monument erected to his memory and to commemorate his virtues would become dim and tarnished by time ere the recollection of his noble example shall cease to exert an influence upon the community in which he lived and labored to such worthy ends.

Mr. Eidson was a native of Lanier township, Preble county, his birth having occurred there on the 26th of October, 1827. His parents were Boyce and Rebecca Ann (Griffin) Eidson, who came with their respective families to Ohio as early as 1808. The father was a native of Virginia, and after arriving at man's estate he carried on farming and also conducted a hotel in Camden. Mr. Eidson, of this review, spent the first sixteen years of his life upon the home farm, and during that time pursued his education in the country schools. Pie then went to Hamilton, where he learned the tanner and currier's trade as an apprentice of Samuel Snively, his term of service beginning in 1843. Four years later his father died, and thus when in his twentieth year the arduous task of caring for his widowed mother and a family of eleven children, all younger than himself, devolved upon him. Nobly did he take up the burden and not only cared for the members of the family but also gave to his four brothers a start in business.

In the spring of 1848 he came to Eaton and entered the employ of Joseph Wilson, working at his trade until 1851, when he bought out his employer, continuing the business on his own account along that line until 1856. He then opened a general store, dealing in leather findings and carrying on an extensive business in Eaton, which was at that time an important commercial center. From 1859 until 1861 he was in Cincinnati, but with the exception of that period was a continuous resident of Eaton from the spring of 1848 until his death. In 1861 he returned to this city and embarked in the grocery business. In 1866 he established a hardware store which for many years was conducted under the firm name of Eidson & De Groot, the partners being known as the leading hardware dealers of the county. Mr. Eidson continued his connection with that branch of merchandising until August, 1892, when he began dealing in coal, sewer pipe, lime, etc. He entered into partnership with C. H. Parsons, under the firm name of Eidson & Parsons, a connection that was maintained until the death of our subject. He was a man of resourceful business ability who carried forward to successful completion whatever he undertook. For a number of years he was the president of the Farmers and Citizens' Bank of Eaton, and his capable control of that institution made it

On the 26th of October, 1853, Mr. Eidson was united in marriage to Miss Permelia Jane De Groot, a daughter of John De Groot, of New Jersey, who was of Holland descent. Their only child died in early life. Mrs. Eidson still survives her husband. She is a member of the Presbyterian church, takes an active part in its work and contributes liberally to its support. Mr. Eidson did not hold membership in the church, but gave very generously for the support of the gospel and was one of the largest contributors in the erection of the fine house of worship in Eaton. His life was permeated with the Christian spirit of helpfulness, charity and kindliness. He was the chairman of the building committee at the time of the erection of the Presbyterian church, and it was to his efforts more than to any one else that the church owes its existence today. He was a member of the board of directors of the County Children's Home, and took a deep interest in that work, which provided for the care, shelter and careful nurture of the homeless little ones.

A recognized leader in public thought and movement, his influence was most marked in all the affairs which concerned the general welfare. He was a prominent representative of the Democracy of Preble county, took a very deep and active interest in local politics and was serving as a member of the countv election board at the time of his death. For twenty-one years he was the corporation clerk of Eaton, was a member of the school board for several years, and was recognized as a warm friend of the cause of education. His labors in this direction while on the school board were productive of the greatest good and their in- faience cannot be measured. He was a member of the house of representatives in 1874-5, being elected as an independent candidate, and in that body he made an excellent record as a reformer as well as an energetic and zealous legislator. In February,

11874, there was introduced into the house a resolution of which he was the author, known as the anti-monopoly school-book resolution, under which a committee was appointed to inquire into the grievance of submission to the exorbitant prices of schoolbooks, and to report some manner by which a uniform series of text-books could be provided in the schools. In this work he won distinction and also the gratitude of the parents throughout the state. In September, 1875, he was unanimously nominated for the position of state senator and accepted the candidacy, but subsequently declined, in the belief that the demands of his business prevented him from meeting the wishes of his constituency.

He served on the staff of Governor Bishop, with the rank of colonel. He was also a member of the city council, serving in that position at the time the opera house was built. Of the Odd Fellows society he was a very valued representative. Over his life record there falls no shadow of wrong nor suspicion of evil. As a business man he had no superior and few equals. He was prompt, accurate, systematic and above all honest and straightforward in all his dealings. Though he started out in life a poor boy, not only dependent on his own exertions for his own support, but having eleven others dependent upon him, yet by his labors he rose to a position of wealth and acquired this competence entirely through the legitimate channels of trade. He was a largehearted man, who had a deep and sincere interest in his fellow men and their welfare. Those who won his friendship knew him to be faithful to the end, and the respect accorded him was shown at the time of his death, when all the business houses in the city closed during the funeral services, while the business men attended the solemn obsequies in a body. His influence cannot die, for the good is imperishable and his worth as a man and citizen should prove as an example to all who knew. him.

Occupying an enviable position in business circles in Eaton, having succeeded his uncle, Griffin H. Eidson, in the control of an important concern, C. H. Parsons was born in Galesburg, Illinois, on the 4th of August, 1868. His grandfather was David H. Parsons, and his father was P. H. Parsons, a native of Ashtabula county, Ohio. While on a visit in Eaton his mother died and since that time Mr. Parsons has lived with his aunt, Mrs. Eidson. He pursued his education in the common schools and in college at Dayton, Ohio, where he was graduated with the class of 1892. Returning to Eaton he then entered upon his business career, and is now managing the affairs left by his uncle. He is energetic, resolute and enterprising and is well known as a reliable young business man. He belongs to the order of Knights of Pythias, and is also a member of the Presbyterian church.

James L. Sayler

Although one of the younger members of the bar, James L. Sayler has already attained a position in legal circles of which many an older practitioner might well be proud. His ability and close application have won for him favorable comment, and his success is assured in a profession where success depends entirely upon individual merit.

James L. Sayler was born March 23, 1871, in Winchester, the town which his great-grandfather assisted in founding. He is indebted to the public-school system for the educational privileges which he enjoyed. His preparation for the bar was obtained in the law department of the Cincinnati College, at which institution he was graduated on the 30th of May, 1894. On the 31st he was admitted to the bar, and since 1895 has been engaged in practice in Eaton, where his advancement has been continuous. The success which he has attained is due to his own efforts and merits. The possession of advantages is no guarantee whatever of professional success. This comes not of itself, nor can it be secured without integrity, ability and industry, and these qualities Mr. Sayler possesses to an eminent degree. He was master commissioner in the Springfield, Jackson & Pomeroy Railroad case, being appointed by the court to determine who the stockholders were and their liabilities, together with the amounts due to the creditors. April 16, 1900, he was admitted to practice in the United States courts for the sixth circuit and southern district of Ohio. On the nth day of the same month he was appointed referee in bankruptcy for Preble county, under the act of July 1, 1898. Mr. Sayler is a member of the local and Ohio State Bar Associations.

Our subject is also a member of Bolivar Lodge, No. 84, F. & A. M. For some years he has been a member of the Christian church. His genial manner makes

Isaac Ulrich

The name of this gentleman appears on the roster of county officials of Preble county and he is now filling the office of county commissioner, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He is also one of the leading and representative farmers of Lanier township and is justly regarded as one of the valued citizens of his locality.

A native of Montgomery county, Ohio, he was born in Jackson township, September 25, 1846, and is a son of Adam and Lena (Oldfather) Ulrich. His great-grandparents were Martin and Dorothea Ulrich. His grandfather, Adam Ulrich, was born in the Keystone state, November 8, 1875, and was of German lineage. Some generations remote the name was spelled Ulrey. I11 1828 Adam Ulrich removed with his family from Pennsylvania to Ohio and froim the government entered a quarter section of land in Jackson township, two miles west of Farmersville, in Montgomery county. There he and his wife spent their remaining days, his death occurring on the 28th of November, 1841. He was an ardent and consistent member of the Lutheran church and an earnest Christian gentleman who enjoyed the confidence and respect of all. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Ann Hughes, was born in Pennsylvania, September 11, 1786, and was a daughter of Owen and Elizabeth (Jenkins) Hughes, who were of Quaker parentage. She was reared in that faith and hers was an upright life that shed its influence for good upon all with whom she came in contact. She died January 4, 1838.

Her son, Adam Ulrich, the father of our subject, was born in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, June 25, 1815, and was fourteen years of age when he came with his parents to the Buckeye state. He was one of eight children, the others 'being Catherine, Dorothea, Sarah, Elizabeth, Mary, Margaret and Isaac, all of whom are now deceased. He was reared on the old family homestead in this state, and as his parents were well advanced in years when they came to Ohio, the management of the farm early devolved upon him.

After the death of his parents he purchased the old homestead, and as a companion and helpmate on life's journey he chose Miss Lena Oldfather, their marriage being celebrated on the 19th of June, 1845. She was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, a daughter of John and Susan (Foutz) Oldfather. The former was a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania, born January 25, 1796, and his death occurred on the 23d of September, 1874. In 1811 he came to Ohio with his parents, Henry and Catherine (Zigler) Oldfather, who located in Jackson township, Montgomery county, where Henry Oldfather built a mill on Twin creek. That property later passed into the hands of his son John and some years later was rebuilt by him. The old mill is still standing, one of the few landmarks of pioneer days which yet remains. John Oldfather was a devout member of the Reformed church and for many years served as one of its elders. His wife, a daughter of Michael Foutz, was born in Montgomery county, whither he removed from North Carolina. At the time of his marriage Adam Ulrich located upon a farm and throughout his business career he carried on agricultural pursuits. He met with suc- cess, and as his financial resources increased he added to his property until his landed possessions were very extensive. In 1877 he retired from active business life and removed to Farmersville, where he died July 12, 1887. In his family were eight children, seven of whom are yet living, namely : Sarah, the wife of Joseph Kinsey, a farmer of Montgomery county, Ohio; Isaac; John H. ; Joseph, who carries on agricultural pursuits in Montgomery county; Mary, deceased ; Susan, wife of Harvey Cook, an agriculturist of Montgomery county; Jennie, wife of Franklin Rohrer, a farmer of Harrison township, Preble county, and Owen M., who is in the postoffice service in West Dayton, Ohio.

Upon the home farm Mr. Ulrich spent the days of his boyhood and youth, working in the fields through the summer months, while in the winter seasons he pursued his education in the public schools. Soon after he had attained his majority he purchased from his father the farm upon which he now resides, and through the four succeeding years he continued to make his home with his parents, operating his own land. He then chose as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Mary C. Nicodemus, the wedding being celebrated on the 20th of March, 1873. The lady is a native of Gratis township, Preble county, and a daughter of John and Mary A. (Beachler) Nicodemus. Her father was a native of this county, and a son of Joshua Nicodemus, who came to Ohio from Maryland in his early manhood. In this state he wedded Mary Shuey, who was born near Germantown, Montgomery county, and they began their domestic life upon a farm near Winchester, where the grandfather acquired an extensive tract of land. Through business reverses in later years, however, he lost his property and spent his last clays in the home of his daughter in Winchester. He was at one time an extensive farmer and for a number of years also owned and operated a mill, which was built by Mr. Neff. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ulrich have been born four children - Jesse E., Jennie S., Walter R. and Edgar F.

After his marriage Mr. Ulrich and his young wife took up their abode upon his farm and with characteristic energy he began its improvement, making a very desirable home for his family. In 1875 he erected his present handsome country residence and later built one of the finest barns in the township. As his financial resources increased he has extended the boundaries of his place until it now comprises two hundred and ten acres. In addition he owns a farm of one hundred and fifty-eight acres in Gasper township, three miles south of Eaton. He has prospered in his undertakings, his diligence, resolution and keen discrimintion, combined with unfaltering energy, bringing to him a handsome financial return for his labor.

Mr. Ulrich is one of the best known and most highly esteemed residents of Preble county and withholds his support from no movement or measure calculated to prove of public good. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend and he provided his children with excellent opportunities in that direction. His sons, Walter and Jesse, have attended business college in Dayton and Jacob has been a student in a shorthand college. Mr. Ulrich served for nine years as a member of the school board and did all in his power to promote the effectiveness of schools. In politics he is a stalwart Democrat, and in 1891 was elected on that ticket to the office of township trustee, in which capacity he served continuously until the spring of 1900, discharging his duties with marked fidelity. In 1899 he was nominated and elected to the office of county commissioner and is now the incumbent of this office. He and his wife hold membership in the Reformed church and for nine years he has been one of its deacons. Mr. Ulrich is a man of sterling worth, of high moral character and of genuine public spirit. His word is as good as bis bond and in all life's relations he is found true to duty and faithful to every trust reposed in him.

John H. Ulrich

I11 taking up the personal history of Mr. Ulrich we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known as an enterprising and prominent farmer of Preble county. His life has been j in a manner quiet and uneventful, but to the serious-minded student in such a history there are to be found lessons of value, for he ; has ever been true to his duty to himself, to his neighbor and to his country. Ohio I

His great-grandparents were Martin and 1 Dorothea Ulrich. His grandfather, Adam Ulrich, was born in the Keystone state, and was of German lineage. In 1828 Adam j Ulrich removed! with his family from Penn- ; syl vania to Ohio and settled in Jackson township, two miles from Farmersville, in Montgomery county. There he and his j wife spent their remaining days.

June 25, 1815, and was fourteen years of age when he came with his parents to the Buckeye state. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey he chose Miss Lena Old father, their marriage being celebrated on the 19th of June, 1845. She was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, a daughter of John and Susan (Foutz) Oldfather. The former was a native of Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and in 18 11 came to Ohio Avith his parents, Henry and Catherine (Zigler) Oldfather, who located in Jackson township, Montgomery county. At the time of his marriage Adam Ulrich located upon a farm and throughout his business career he carried on agricultural pursuits. He met with success and as his financial resources increased he added to his property until his landed possessions were very extensive. In 1877 he retired from active business life and removed to Farmersville, where he July 12, 1887. In his family were eight children, seven of whom are yet living, namely: Sarah, the wife of Joseph Kinsey, a farmer of Montgomery county, Ohio; Isaac; John H. ; Joseph, who carries on agricultural pursuits in Montgomery county; Mary, deceased; Susan, wife of Harvey Cook, an agriculturist of Montgomery county; Jennie, wife of Franklin Rohrer, a farmer of Harrison township, Preble county, and Owen M., who is in the postoffice service in West Dayton, Ohio.

John H. Ulrich spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farmer lads of that period. He assisted in the work of field and meadow, and in the common schools acquired his education. March 15, 1871, he married Miss Catherine Blackwell, a native of Virginia, who died in 1877, leaving one child, Ida, who is now the wife of John .Smith, a farmer of Lanier township. On the 15th of December, 1879, Mr. Ulrich chose for a second wife Miss Clara J. Fisher, a native of Lanier township, Preble county, and a daughter of David and Sarah A. (Neff) Fisher, both of whom were natives of this county, the father born November 28, 1828, and the mother on the 20th of April, 1827. Her death occurred November 24, 1887. Her paternal grandfather was Abraham Fisher and her maternal grandfather Christian Neff, 'and both were among the pioneer settlers of Preble county. The latter was a miller and built a mill on Twin creek, in Lanier township, where he carried on business for many years. After the marriage of David Fisher and Sarah Neff they took up their abode on the old Neff place and Mr. Fisher conducted a saw mill for some time. Later he engaged in farming, and after the death of his wife he removed to the state of Washington, in 1892, and is now making his home there with his son. He had eight children, six of whom are living. In order of birth they are as follows : Charlie, now deceased ; Ira ; Clara J. ; Christian; Ella., wife of John Roberts, of Lanier township; Rosa, deceased; Dolly, wife of John Bush, of Lanier township, and Kittie, the wife of Dessa Bookwalter, of Gratis township. Unto Mr. Ulrich and his second wife were born eight children: Charles/ who married Lavinia Kuhlenkamp and is now living in Winchester, his energies being devoted to teaching in the district schools; Warren; Crissie and Carrie, twins; Adam; Roy and Ray, who were twins, but the latter is now deceased, and Grace, who completes the family.

After his marriage Mr. Ulrich located on the farm where lie now lives. It was an eighty-acre tract at that time, owned by his father. Subsequently he purchased eighty acres, later eighty acres more, and still later another tract of forty acres. He has made many substantial improvements upon the place, including the erection, in 1882, of his commodious brick residence. From his perseverance, industry and capable management he has become one of the substantial farmers of Preble county, and his landed possessions now comprise two hundred acres. He makes a specialty of the raising of cattle and is also extensively engaged in the raising of other stock. His business is carefully prosecuted and his success is well merited.

Mr. Ulrich has always been deeply interested in educational work, the schools finding in him a stanch friend. For twelve years he served as a member of the school board, doing all in his power to advance the efficient work done by the teachers and pupils. His political support is given the Democracy. In his religious belief he is a Lutheran, while his wife is connected with the Dunkards. He is now serving for the third year as an elder in his church and his life is in harmony with his profession, for at all times he has been honorable and upright in his dealings and faithful to every trust. Energy and industry have been the salient features in his prosperity and his example should serve to encourage others who are forced to begin life dependent entirely upon their own efforts.

Dr. James L. Quinn, who in the exercise of his professional duties has won increasing respect and admiration by his ability and his strict regard for the unwritten ethical code of his profession, was born on a farm in Twin township, September 21, 1841.

At a pioneer epoch in the development of Preble county the Quinn family was founded within its borders, and its members have since been prominent in connection with public affairs which have contributed to the general welfare, upbuilding and prosperity. His parents, General John and Mary Ann (Pottinger) Quinn, were natives of Georgia and Butler county, Ohio, respectively. His father came to the Buckeye state in his seventeenth year, and his mother's people were among the first settlers of Butler county. The Doctor was reared upon a farm and in the public schools acquired his elementary education, which was supplemented by study in Miami University, at Oxford, Ohio. He entered that institution in i860, pursuing a classical course, but the outbreak of the civil war prevented the completion of the regular course. He enlisted on the 2d of May, 1864, as a member of Company D, One Hundred and Fifty-sixth Ohio Infantry, serving for four months in Cincinnati, Kentucky and Maryland. He was engaged in patrol duty and in guarding government property. In Maryland, however, he did general military duty, and on the 1st of September, 1864, his term having expired, he received an honorable discharge. He attended a commercial college in Cincinnati through the following winter, and in the winter of 1865 engaged in teaching school in Butler county, Ohio; but this was merely a means to an end, for it was his desire to become a member of the medical profession. He began the study of medicine in 1866, under private tutors, and attended his first course of lectures in Miami College, at Cincinnati, during the winter of 1867-8. In the institution he pursued three courses, one a summer course, and was graduated on the 1st of March, 1869. He was then appointed resident physician in the Cincinnati hospital, and his first year in practice was spent there. He gained thereby an excellent knowledge the practical work of his profession, and in the spring of 1870 he established a private office in Cincinnati, where he remained for more than a year. In 1871, however, he located in Muncie, Indiana, but soon decided to establish a home in Eaton, where he opened an office in May, 1872. He has since been in constant practice in this city, and his business has continually increased, both in volume and importance, so that he is now accounted one of the most successful and able practitioners of Preble county. He has been connected with the Hospital Interne Society of Cincinnati, and with the local medical societies of a professional character, thereby keeping in touch with the progress that is constantly being made by the medical fraternity.

The Doctor was married in Covington, Kentucky, in 1873, to Elizabeth Quinn, a native of Preble county, and to them have been born four children, namely: Carlotta

M., Ruth, John and Lillie; but the second named died at the age of twelve years. The others are with their parents. The Doctor has been connected with the Masonic fraternity since 1871, and is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He has been a life-long Republican in his political views, having cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He is now serving his second term as the coroner of Preble county, has been a member of the board of education, was for two years a member of the pension board of examiners, under President Harrison, and has recently been reappointed to that position by President Mc- Kinley. He stands today in a commanding position in the ranks of his profession, where advancement results entirely from individual merit, and is likewise prominent as a citizen and a man. A gentleman of fine address and thorough culture, he also occupies a first place in society as well as in medical circles, and in the history of Preble county he well deserves mention.

Hon. Robert W. Quinn

The profession of the law, when clothed with its true dignity and purity and strength, must rank first among the callings of men, as it relates to the rights of man. The work of the legal profession is to formulate, to harmonize, to regulate, to adjust, to administer those rules and principles that underlie and permeate all government and society and control the various relations of man. As thus viewed there attaches to the legal profession a nobleness that cannot but be reflected in the life of the true lawyer, who, conscious of the greatness of his profession, and honest in the pursuit of his purpose, embrace's the richness of learning, the profoundness of wisdom, the firmness of integrity and the purity of morals, together with the graces of modesty, courtesy and the general amenities of life. Of this class of lawyers Hon. Robert Wilson Quinn is a worthy representative and through a third of a century he has been numbered among the leading members of the Eaton bar.

He represents one of the most honored pioneer families of the state, his great-grandfather, John Quinn, having emigrated from the north of Ireland to the new world about the year 1750. He located in New Jersey and some time afterward was united in marriage to Miss Crooks, by whom he had ten children, five of whom, four sons and a daughter, ultimately came to Ohio. The sons who thus founded the family in the then far west were John, Robert, James and Joseph C. The daughter was Elizabeth, who subsequently became Mrs. Bennett and removed to Indiana at an early day.

Of this family Robert Ouinn was the paternal grandfather of our subject. He was born in New Jersey, February 24, 1761, and during his boyhood accompanied his father's family to Maryland, and in after years removed to Virginia and in 1789 to Georgia. He served his country in the war of the Revolution. He was married in 1787 to Elizabeth Lacy, a sister of General John Lacy, who served with distinction in the war of the Revolution. Elizabeth Lacy was born December 4, j 760, and was an ardent seeker after knowledge, becoming a lady of superior mental culture. From Georgia they removed to Ohio, in the year 1805, settling in Montgomery county, near Germantown. A year later they came into what is now Lanier township, Preble county, and rented a farm a mile and a half south of the present site of West Alexandria. The same year Mr. Quinn entered the southeast quarter of section 31, township 6, range 3, and not long afterward entered the southeast quarter of section 18, in the same township. This farm he and his son developed and improved, and it remained the property of his descendants for three-quarters of a century.

John Quinn, the eldest son of this pioneer, and usually known as General Quinn, was the father of our subject. He was born in Columbia county, Georgia, near the town of Wrightsboro, January 26, 1790, and was in his sixteenth year when the family came to Ohio. He inherited his mother's fondness for literary pursuits, although his early education was limited by reason of the poor school facilities, but his studious habits and extensive reading made him a thoroughly well informed man. Being the eldest son, much of the work of clearing the land and transforming it into a good farm devolved upon him. As the years went by his brothers, James and Robert, grew to manhood and married, leaving him still to care for the home property. He served for six months as a sergeant in the war of 1812, under the command of Captain J. C. Hawkins, of the Ohio militia, and about 1824 he was elected the general of the militia of Preble county, thus obtaining the title by which he was ever afterward known. He served as a member of the state board of equalization of real estate and in the year 1830 was elected sheriff of Preble county, which position he held for two terms, retiring January 1, 1835. In the fall of 1837 he was elected a member of the house of representatives of Ohio, t-hat service ending his career as a public official. He was a citizen in whom the public trust was well reposed, for he ever placed the general good before party prejudice and the welfare of his community before self-aggrandizement. In politics he was a Whig and afterward a Republican. Firm in his convictions, his opinions could be altered only by incontrovertible logic, yet he never entered into heated controversy. For many years he was an elder in the Disciples church, or Church of Christ, and labored earnestly to advance the cause of true religion among his fellow men; and he harmonized his life with its great principles.

General Quinn was married July 19, 1831, to Mary Ann Pott'nger, a daughter of Thomas Pottinger, one of the pioneers of Butler county, Ohio, in which county Mrs. Quinn was born January 2, 1804. As the infirmities of age came creeping on this worthy couple retired from their farm and in

1872 came to Eaton to reside in the family of their son, Robert W., their last clays being happily spent in his home. The father died on the 12th of February, 1873, and the mother survived him for two weeks. The funeral discourse of each was delivered by Elder Levi Purviance, an aged minister who had united them in marriage nearly fortytwo years before.

Robert Wilson Quinn of this review is the eldest living child of their family. Their first born was Thomas Pottinger Quinn, who died of cholera in 1854. He was then a young man of twenty-two years, pursuing law studies, and seemed to have a bright future before him. Their third son, John Willett Quinn, entered the Union army in 1861 as a member of the Seventy-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died of typhofid fever in the spring of 1862, in his twentythird year. James Lacy Quinn, the fourth son, is a practicing physician of Eaton. He was born September 21, 1841, and was also a defender of the Union during the civil war. Samuel Milton, who served for a short time in the army, studied law with his brother Robert in Eaton, later pursued a course in the Cincinnati Law College, and is now a practicing attorney at the Cincinnati bar.

Judge Quinn, whose name introduces this record, was born on the 28th of September, 1835, at his father's country residence in Twin township, Preble county. His elementary education was accpiired in the public schools, wherein were taught the common English branches of learning, including reading, writing, arithmetic, geography and English grammar. Occasionally a teacher could be secured who was capable of giving instructions in elementary algebra. On leaving the public schools lie became a student in Farmers' College, in the fall of 1853, and, with the exception of six months spent as teacher, he remained in that institution until July, 1856. Soon after the completion of his literary course he began the study of law under the direction of Hon. William J. Gilmore, of Eaton, who was afterward one of the justices of the supreme court of the state. He continued his reading for about two years and then entered the law department of the Cincinnati College, in which he was graduated in April, 1858. Successfully passing an examination, he was admitted to the bar in Cincinnati. Among his classmates were several who have attained distinction in the affairs of the nation. These include the Hon. Edmund T. Noyes, late United States minister to France; Hon. Samuel McKee, of Kentucky;- and Judges Avery and Moore, of the common-pleas bench of Hamilton county.

After his graduation Judge Quinn spent a year in the office of the firm of Bates & Scarborough, of Cincinnati, in order to better familiarize himself with the details of office work. A short time before the inauguration of the civil war he returned to his father's farm and did not resume practice until after the close of hostilities. During the rebellion he served for four months in the One Hundred and Fifty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, enlisting under the emergency call for one-hundred-day men. He took part in the battle of Fulk's Mill, near Cumberland, Maryland, but his regiment was mostly engaged in guard duty.

In April, 1867, Mr. Quinn removed to Eaton, where he entered upon the practice of his chosen profession, which he has continued up to the present time. In February, 1875, he was admitted to practice in the circuit court of the United States at Cincinnati. He has been very successful as a lawyer and, with little liking for the criminal branch of jurisprudence, he has devoted his attention almost exclusively to civil law. Along these lines he has been engaged either as attorney or referee in many of the most complex cases of the county. In the fall of 1881 he was elected the probate judge of Preble county, taking possession of the office February 9, 1882, and in the autumn of 1884 he was again elected, serving for six years in all. His knowledge of the law is comprehensive and exact, and he has gained prestige in a profession where advancement depends entirely upon individual merit.

Judge Quinn has been twice married, his first wife being Miss Josephine Palmer, of Cincinnati, whom he wedded on the 10th of January, 1861. They became- the parents of two children. Edmund F., who is a graduate of Princeton College and a lawyer by profession, is now serving as auditing clerk in the United States signal service in the war department at Washington. He was born December 13, 1867. Carrie B., the younger child, was born April 30, 1872, was a graduate of the Eaton high school and died March 30, 1892. The mother of these children died of consumption March 15, 1888. Judge Quinn was again married June 3, 1891, when Miss Emma F. Baird, of Butler county, Ohio, became his wife. She is a daughter of Arthur Baird, a representative of one of the first families of the county. She was educated in the public schools and in a select school, and with her husband shares the warm regard of many friends in Preble county.

The Judge has been a life-long Republican and a close student of the issues of the day, yet has never sought office. He served by appointment for a short term as the mayor of Eaton, and, with the exception of his service as probate judge, this is the only elective office he ever held. He and his first wife and children were all members of the Disciples church, in which he and his son still have their religious home. His present wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. The Judge is a Royal Arch Mason, his identification with the fraternity covering a period of forty-six years. He served for five years as the worshipful master of Bolivar Lodge, No. 82, F. & A. M., was for seven years its secretary and was a charter member of Mulhorn Post, G. A. R. He has been a life-long student, particularly along the lines of literature and general history. He owns one of the finest and most complete historical libraries, besides a valuable selection of miscellaneous publications and reference books and a large professional library. A man of scholarly attainments, his intellectual activity has given him preeminence among the leaders in thought and action in the county of his nativity. Judge Quinn is popular with a large circle of friends and acquaintances who honor and esteem him for his many virtues and his genuine worth. Of large brain and kindly heart, he is interesting and instructive in conversation, courteous and genial in deportment and kindly in manner.

Lurton D. Felton

Lurton D. Felton operates a good farm on section 30, Gasper township, and makes a specialty of the breeding of Poland China hogs. He is one of the leading stock men in this section and his capably-managed business interests are bringing to him an excellent financial return. He was born November 30, 1849, 011 his father's farm one mile north of his present home. His father, Edward Felton, was a native of North Carolina, born April 22, 1816, and at the age of fourteen he arrived in Ohio. He was of English lineage, for the grandfather of our subject emigrated from the "merrie isle" to North Carolina, where he died at an early age, leaving but one child, Edward. His widow was again married, her second husband being Josiah Elliott, by whom she had several children. She died in the '70s, at an advanced age. Edward Felton, having arrived at years of maturity, chose as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Talitha C. Wright, who was born in Preble county, June 19, 1821, a daughter of Samuel Wright, who was a native of Ireland. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Felton occurred in 1839, and their union was blessed with six sons and eight daughters. They lost an infant daughter, and John, who died at the age of eighteen years, but the others reached years of maturity. These are: William H., a farmer of Nebraska, who has been twice married and has fourteen children; Millie J., the wife of Edward Maddocks ; Susan, the widow of Joseph Skinner, of Illinois, by whom she had one son; Sally, the wife of T. A. White, resides in Anderson, Indiana, having four children, two sons and two daughters: Leah E., the wife of John A. Conger, of Iowa, and the mother of two children; Lurton D., the seventh in order of birth; Samuel, a tile manufacturer of Illinois, who is married and has five children; Nancy, the wife of Roland Wiley, of Kansas, by whom she has four children ; Rachel, who married Wesley Skinner, of Illinois, and has four children ; Edward, who is living in Nebraska; Caroline, the wife of Isaac Swafford, of Butler county, Ohio, by whom she has two children ;

Lurton D. Felton, whose name introduces this record, obtained his education in the common schools and worked upon the farm through the summer months, assisting in the fields from the time crops were planted until the harvests were garnered in the autumn. He was married January 9, 1872, when twenty-two years of age, to Miss Mary C. Moore, who was born in Butler county, Ohio, but at the time of her marriage resided in Gasper township. Her parents were William and Lavina Moore. Her father was born in Butler county, October 5, 1817, and was a son of Alexander and Mary (Orbison) Moore, the former born in North Carolina, October 3, 1799, and the latter on the 16th of October, 1791. About 1803 the grandfather of Mrs. Felton removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, and afterward went to Butler county, becoming one of its honored pioneer settlers. William Moore obtained a common-school education and also studied surveying. He removed to the vicinity of Logansport, Indiana, where he followed his chosen vocation, being employed as a surveyor in dividing up the reserve into farms when it came into tile market. He was married October 1, 1840, to Nancy Cohee, who was born in Hamilton, Ohio, and died April 2, 1846, survived by one of her two children : Rebecca, the wife of G. Id. Pierson, of Kansas City, Kansas. Mr. Moore was again married in 1848, his second union being with Lavina Bowman, of Butler county. She was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1827, a daughter of David and Catherine Bowman. By the second marriage of Mr. Moore there were four children : Silas, an engineer and electrician, who has charge of the lighthouse at Tacoma, on Puget Sound; Mary Catherine, the wife of our subject; Nancy Jane, who became the wife of Irving Flory and died April I, 1875; and Martha Ellen, who married James Wilson, and after his death became the wife of Thomas Taylor, with whom she now resides near West Elkton. Mr. Moore, the father of these children, engaged in the operation of a saw-mill in Indiana and shipped lumber to Chicago. He followed that pursuit from 1848 until 1862, and in the autumn of 1863 he located on his present farm in Gasper township, Preble county, where he owns one hundred and two acres. He also operated a saw-mill here for several years, but it was burned down in 1866. He carried on general farming for several years, but for a few years past has rented his farm.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Felton are: Frank D., a railroad man, who resides in Newton, Kansas, with his wife and one daughter; Grace A., the wife of Elmer Vanshiver, by whom she has two sons; Murriel, at home; Roland W., who died at the age of sixteen months; and Guy M., who assists his father in the operation of the home farm. Mr. Felton rents one hundred and ten acres of land and is very successfully engaged in the raising of blooded Poland China swine. He has some very fine stock, all of which could be registered. He is regarded as one of the leading raisers of hogs in this locality and his sales bring to him an excellent financial return.

Mr. Felton was reared in the Methodist faith and his wife is a member of that church. They are well known people, having a wide acquaintance in the county, and the sterling qualities of character which they display in the relation with their fellow men have gained for them the confidence and good will of many. with whom they have been brought in contact.

Henry P. Smith

This gentleman has the distinction of having won the proud American title of a self-made man. Several of the leading enterprises and business interests of Lewisburg bear the impress of his individuality and owe not a little of their success to his ability and capable powers of management. His great determination and energy have enabled him to overcome all the difficulties and obstacles in his path and work his way steadily upward to prosperity. He is known among his fellow townsmen for his reliability in all trade transactions and justly merits their confidence and regard.

Mr. Smith was born in the kingdom of Prussia, Germany, January 18, 1850, but was only two years old when brought to this country by his father, Frederick Smith, also a native of Prussia and a cooper by trade. The family located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where our subject was reared and educated. At the age of fourteen he commenced learning the cigarmaker's trade, which he followed in that city for five years, and then worked at the same in all of the principal cities of the west, including Omaha, Kansas City and St. Louis, returning to Cincinnati in 1871, by way of Iowa, Milwaukee and Chicago. In 1872 he again went to St. Louis, where he spent a year, and on his return to Cincinnati was employed as a traveling salesman for a cigar house one year. In 1874 he accepted a position as salesman for a leaf tobacco house, with which he was connected twelve years.

On the ist of August, 1886^ Mr. Smith came to Lewisburg and embarked in the leaftobacco business on his own account, buying and shipping that product extensively. In 1893 he formed a partnership with L. F. Parmerlee, which connection still continues. With others, he assisted in organizing the People's Banking Company in 1892, and has since filled the office of vicepresident. He is still interested in the tobacco trade, and is carrying on an extensive business along that line. He furnishes employment to forty people, and in 1899 paid out nine thousand dollars for labor alone. That year he handled two thousand cases of tobacco, the second largest amount handled by any firm in the county, and now has sixty thousand dollars' worth of tobacco 011 hands in his warehouse. His plant is heated by steam and in every respect is a firstclass establishment of its kind. Mr. Smith is one of the directors of the Miami Leaf Tobacco Association, with headquarters in Dayton.

On the 23d of September, 1874, in Lewisburg, Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Miss Anna M. Ruff, who was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and came to Lewisburg with her parents when young. By this union has been born one daughter, Pearl C., at home.

Mr. Smith has taken all of the degrees in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; has filled all the chairs in the local lodge and encampment, and has represented the lodges of Preble and Darke counties in the grand lodge of the state. Politically he is a stanch Republican, and has taken an active and prominent part in public affairs, serving as a member of the city council two terms and mayor of the village in 1899, but he resigned the latter office before his term expired. His time is wholly taken up with his extensive business interests. He is energetic, prompt and notably reliable in all transactions, and has the entire confidence and respect of his fellow citizens.

Nelson I. Snyder

Practical industry wisely and vigorously applied never fails of success; it carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are usually attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords amnle opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and self-improvement.

It is along such lines that Mr. Snyder has won success. He began life amid unfavoring circumstances on an Ohio farm, his birth having occurred in Warren county, four miles east of Morrow, March 13, 1861. He is a son of Philip A. and Barbara E. Snyder, early settlers of Warren county. At the age of five years Nelson Snyder lost his hearing by an attack of spotted fever, and in 1870 he entered the Ohio school for the deaf. While pursuing his education he worked for the Chronicle office at the school, from 1874 to 1879, and was then graduated. On the completion of his education he joined his parents in Blanchester, to which place they had removed from Warren county, but in the following autumn he went to South Charleston, Ohio, securing a situation in the Republican office, where he was employed until the summer of 1880. Returning then to Blanchester, he obtained a position as a compositor in the Press office, serving in this capacity until the spring of 1 88 1 , when the plant was sold, and with the change in ownership the name of the paper became the Star.

In the winter of 1882 Mr. Snyder, having saved some capital from his earnings, purchased a small grocery, placing a younger brother in charge, while he continued to work at the case in the Star office. The grocery business, however, did not prove a profitable investment and he lost all that he had saved. He continued to work in the Star office until the spring of 1888, when he voluntarily severed his connection with the paper and went to Cincinnati to secure wider fields. Upon his arrival in that city he secured a position in the first printing office in which he made application - the American Israelite - whose editor was the late venerable Rabbi Isaac Wise. Mr. Snyder worked on that paper until the following November, when he received a letter from Blanchester containing the proposition to sell the Star office. This he accepted and returning to his old home he immediately took charge of the paper, with his brother, Warren K., as a partner. The lease expired the following November, and a clause in the article of agreement between the proprietor of the Star outfit and Mr. Snyder and his brother, giving to our subject the first privilege of purchase, was not taken advantage of. The brothers had made this a profitable investment, but the owner asked an exorbitant sum for the plant and they refused to purchase at that price. The outfit was then sold to A. C. Bell, and Mr. Snyder remained in his employ, continuing in the Star office until the great conflagration had visited Blanchester, in the fall of 1895,

On the 2d of September, 1891, Mr. Snyder went to West Alexandria, Preble county, and the next day, accompanied by 1 MiSs Hallie N. Holland, made his way to Cincinnati, where, at the Palace Hotel, they were married by the late Rev. Benjamin Talbot. The lady is a daughter of Mrs. Julia A. Holland, who for a period of six- 1 teen years was the postmistress of West Alexandria, succeedine her father, Mahlon Karn, in that position. She was removed in 1884, by President Cleveland. Her husband, John 0. Holland, had been killed in 1, the civil war. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder began t their domestic life in Blanchester, and there, i on the 23d of February, 1894, a daughter j. (Carolyn) was born to them. |

In the fall of 1897 our subject removed tj with his little family to West Alexandria tj and in connection with M. W. Griswold determined to establish a new paper. On the > 3d of March, 1898, the Twin Valley Echo 1 made its first appearance and was accorded a flattering reception. Their most sanguine expectations for the success of this undertaking has been more than fully realized. The journal is a six-column, eight-page weekly, 1 and is a credit to the city, where it ranks with the best papers in this section of the state, both in workmanship and in the dissemination of news. It is neat in appearance and is an extremely -enterprising journal, well conducted and worthy of a very liberal patronage. Mr. Snyder indeed deserves great credit for his success in life. Not only, was he forced to start out for himself emptyhanded, but was handicapped by an affliction. The elemental strength of his character, however, was early manifest, and he has

William H. H. B. Minor

Dr. William Henry Harrison Brice Minor was born in Warren county, Ohio, on the 5th clay of October, 1812, the fourth child and second son of Eli W. and Dorcas A. Minor, who were natives of Greene county, Pennsylvania, and emigrated to this state in the year 1810. Dr. Minor held his ancestry in great esteem and delighted to study the genealogy of his family, which he could trace back nearly three hundred years. His family were of English origin, and the ancestor of the Minor family in the United States, Thomas Miner (e, not o), was born in England in the year 1608, whence he emigrated to this country in the year 1634. He had eight sons, and the youngest, Ste- 1 phen Minor (who changed the spelling of the name from Miner to Minor), was the great-grandfather of the subject of this ; sketch. It was to him that the Minor manor in Virginia was granted by the English , crown. He settled near Winchester, Virginia, a portion of which town was built on the manor. Stephen Minor was married to Athelia Updike, and his fifth son was Judge f John Minor, born at Winchester, January 5, 1747. John Minor married Cassandra Williams, February, 1776. Miss Williams was a sister to General Otho Williams, who commanded General Greene's rear guards in his famous retreat in the Carolinas in the Revolutionary war, and her brother, Eli Williams, was one of the commissioners who laid out the national road from Baltimore to Cumberland and in connection with Ellicott furnished supplies for General Anthony

Wayne's army in the Indian war on the Maumee. Judge John Minor, the grandfather, was an officer in the Revolutionary army and also for many years an associate judge of Greene county, Pennsylvania. He died at the ripe old age of eighty-nine.

His son, Eli, the father of our subject, was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, January 22, 1784, and married Dorcas A. Brice, in January, 1802, and brought his family to Ohio, in 1810. ' After having lived some eight years in Warren county he removed to Preble county and settled in the vicinity of Eaton. He possessed great energy and physical strength, and being also endowed with a happy, jovial nature, he participated with equal pleasure in both the labors and the sports of pioneer life. He was an intimate friend of the late Hon. Thomas Corwin, the two having served together as "wagon boys" in the war of 1812, carryingprovisions to General Harrison's army.

After living for some five or six years in Preble county, he removed to Cincinnati and resided there until the year 1830, when he returned to Greene county, Pennsylvania, to the neighborhood where lie was born and raised. Mr. Minor died in the year 1849, a very generally respected man. His wife was a sister of Dr. John Brice, who erected the third pioneer cabin in Newark, Ohio, and her nephew, Benjamin Brice, is on the retired list as the paymaster-general of the United States army.

In boyhood William Minor was of slender form and rather delicate constitution, although energetic, active and vivacious, and was an adept in all innocent sports and amusements. Reared as he was under the restricted circumstances and disadvantages of a frontier life, at a time when schools and means of education were both expensive and difficult of access, his school days were' necessarily few and limited, and his literary attainments were not of a very high order. Being naturally a close observer and possessed of keen perception and ambitious to excel, he made the best use of the limited opportunities that happened in his way. He, however, succeeded in gathering a broad stock of useful information, which served as the basis of a well informed and useful life. Very soon after the return of the family to Pennsylvania young William was apprenticed to the blacksmithing trade, and on the completion of his apprenticeship he returned to Preble county, Ohio, and established himself in business in Eaton, first in partnership with Joseph Wasson, who was the first blacksmith that located in Eaton, and later in his own shop. Ambitious to excel in all he undertook, he very soon acquired the reputation of being one of the best artificers in his craft in the country. Consequently his labors to meet all the requirements of his customers overtaxed his strength, and he was compelled, on account of ill health, to relinquish the business of blacksmithing in the year 1835. He then turned his attention to medicine, and after studying for three years under the preceptorship of his brother-in-law, Dr. Jessy Paramour, he commenced practicing as a physician in Eaton, in the year 1838. In his new profession, as in all else that he undertook^ his aim was to attain the highest degree of excellence. Having a comprehensive intellect, retentive memory, ready perception and untiring industry, he very soon stood in the front rank among his contemporaries. He continued in the practice of medicine in this place about twelve years, a part of which time he was in partnership with Dr. Paramour^ a part of the time with

Dr. Crume and the remainder of the time alone. Dr. Minor was a second time brought to face the fact that his health would not permit him to endure the hardships and exposures incident to a country practice, and in the year 1851 he relinquished the practice of his profession. He later engaged in mercantile business - first in the dry-goods trade and then in groceries and drugs. In the year of 1871 he retired from all active business pursuits and devoted his time to the care of his property, which industry and integrity and business sagacity had enabled him to accumulate.

On July 11, 1839, he married Miss Lavina C. Hollady, a daughter of James Hollady, of Preble county, and a granddaughter, on her mother's side, of William Bruce, the original proprietor of the site on which Eaton now stands. A son and three daughters were the fruits of this union. Only the two younger daughters are now living - the older, Mrs. Mary E. Farr, and the younger, Mrs. Nettie F. Lovette.

Dr. Minor may he truly said to have been a self-made man. Reared in comparative poverty and obscurity, under the most limited educational facilities, and without ? influential friends in early life to advance his interests, by his own unaided, but in- j domitable energy and perseverance, he attained an unusual competency for his advanced age, and an influential, standing in the community in which he lived. His habits from youth to old age were the very best. Dr. Minor was a gentleman of superior judgment, great caution and remarkable thoroughness in all that he did. Modest j and unassuming, he was positive in his con- | victions and he conscientiously carried them out, impelled by that highest motive, he "felt that it was right to do so." Integrity, fidelity and patriotism were the ruling principles of his life. Scrupulously prompt to fulfill all his own obligations and engagements, he expected and exacted a like promptness from others. Even tempered and mentally well balanced, always hopeful and possessed of great powers of self-control, he was enabled to pass through life with as little of the asperities incident to human experience as falls to the lot of most men. His was a character noble in its purpose and true to itself, one which was an ornament to the community in which he lived and an inspiration to others. Such men live to the benefit of the generations that follow them.

In March, 1846, Dr. Minor affiliated himself with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he continued a worthy and honored member during the remainder of his life. He died on the 12th day of August, 1880, having reached the age of sixty-seven years, ten months and six days. He had never professed or formed any church relations, but throughout his life he ever honored and relied on the impartial goodness of the Infinite Being, the Father of all.

In the subject of this review we have one who has attained distinction in the line of his profession, who has been an earnest and discriminating student and who holds a position of due relative precedence among the medical practitioners of West Alexandria. He has gained a reputation which many an older member of the fraternity might well envy, and a very liberal patronage is accorded him by reason of his pronounced skill and ability. He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, January 28, 1871, his parents being Alfred B. and Martha J. (Ewing) Cavey. His father, a native of Maryland, was born in 1829, and in that state he spent the days of his childhood and youth, his education being obtained in the common schools. On attaining his majority he left home and crossed the mountains to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he was engaged in railroad business. Later he was the superintendent of construction in the building of the Panhandle system from Pittsburg to Steubenville, and on the completion of the road he remained in the employ of the company in one or another important capacity until 1885. On severing his connection therewith he accepted the position of superintendent of construction of the portion of the Cincinnati branch of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad between Ashland and Augusta. That work occupied his time and attention for two and a half years, after which he entered the service of the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad Company, as assistant superintendent of the Springfield division, filling that position most creditably until 1897, when he retired from active business life. Throughout his connection with the Ohio & Mississippi road and up to the present time he has made his home in Riverton, Kentucky, and is regarded as one of the highly esteemed residents of that city. His wife was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, in 1837, and was a representative of an old and honored family of the state. Many of its members have been prominent in the various walks of life, and they thereby contributed to the development and material welfare of the communities with which they have been connected. Alfred and Martha Cavey had two children : Maud E.,

The latter spent his boyhood and youth at home, and in the common schools acquired his preliminary education, which was supplemented by a course in the Orchard City Business College at Flora, Illinois. On leaving that institution he went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, to visit an uncle, and while there was offered a position in his uncle's store, so that his residence in the Keystone state was continued for a year and a half. However, prior to this time he had determined to adopt the practice of medicine as a life work, and this led him to sever his connection with mercantile interests. While clerking, however, he began reading, and in 1892 he took a trip to the west, spending six months in that section of the country. He was in Colorado most of the time and then returned to Flora, Illinois, where his parents were then residing. In Flora he continued his medical studies in the office and under the direction of Dr. L. E. Elrod, and in 1894 matriculated in the Miami Medical College, of Cincinnati, at which he was graduated with high honors as a member of the class of 1897. In June of the same year he located in West Alexandria and within a few months he found himself in control of a large and constantly increasing patronage. He has been a close and thorough student of his profession and his medical knowledge is comprehensive and accurate. He continues his reading, so that he keeps constantly in touch with the progress that is made in the scie-nce of medicine, and is also conversant with the different theories and data advanced by the members of the Ohio State Medical Society, the American Medical Society and the Preble County Medical Society, with all of which 1 he holds membership relations. He is a member of the town board of health and is one of the most progressive and enterprising citizens of Preble county.

The Doctor was united in marriage to Miss Ardelle Wolfrey, the wedding being celebrated December 6, 1898. The lady is native of West Alexandria and a daughter of Reuben T. Wolfrey, who is connected with the West Alexandria water works. Dr. Cavey is a young man of model habits, of affable manner and uniform courtesy, and these qualities, taken in connection with his marked ability, have gained for him a leading place in the ranks of the medical fraternity and made him popular as a citizen.

George W. Deem

In past ages the history of a country was the record of wars and conquests; to-day it is the record of commercial activity, and those whose names are foremost in its annals are the leaders in business circles. The conquests now made are those of mind over matter, not of man over man, and the victor is he who can successfully establish, control and operate extensive commercial interests. George W. Deem is one of the strong and influential men whose lives have become an essential part of the history of Eaton and of Ohio. Tireless energy, keen perception, honesty of purpose, genius for devising and executing the right thing at the right time, joined to every-day common sense, guided by great will power, are the chief characteristics of the man. He is now connected with many leading enterprises of Eaton, and his efforts have brought to him gratifying success.

Joseph Deem, was a native of Licking River, Kentucky, and the grandfather of our subject was one of the first settlers of Butler county, Ohio, taking up his residence near Middletown, in 1810, when Joseph was only ten years of age. The latter was reared amid the wild scenes of the frontier and in 1836 came to Preble county. He was a farmer by occupation, and for a number of years served as the director of the poor-house. In his business affairs he was signally successful, becoming the possessor of a comfortable competency. An earnest Christian gentleman, he held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and in his life exemplified his belief. His death occurred in 1870. He married Miss Francis Tarr, a representative of an old family of Greencastle, Indiana, and she was called to her final rest on the 17th of January, 1871. They had nine children, of whom six are living, namely: William T., a resident of Eaton; Buckner Deem, formerly of Preble county; Mary Ann, the widow of Andrew Fall and a resident of Indiana; John T., of Eaton; Francis M., who also is residing in this city, and George W. The deceased are : Maria, married Moses Surface; Jane, who married Milton Specht, and James K. Deem.

George W. Deem was reared upon his father's farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He assisted in the work of field and meadow during the summer months and in the winter season pursued his education in the common schools. He continued farming until 1868, when he began buying and selling stock. In 1871 he embarked in the lumber business, and recently he has given his attention almost exclusively to the handling of hard wood lumber, buying sawed oak. He is an excellent judge of lumber; and the good quality which he carries, together with his honorable dealing and courteous treatment, has secured to him a very liberal patronage. He is a man of resourceful business ability whose efforts have by no means been limited to one line, and in his various undertakings he has met with the creditable success that has materially increased his income. He is interested in a brick-yard, being one of the stockholders of the Eaton Brick Company, in which industry he is associated with Judge Fisher, Fred Becker and Dr. Lovette. For the past six years he has been a director of the Eaton Banking Company and is also identified with the agricultural interests of the county, owning and operating forty acres of land and also superintending the cultivation of a farm of sixty acres which belongs to. his daughter. Although his business interests are extensive and varied, he controls, each with marked success, and his worth as a business man is widely acknowledged.

Mr. Deem has been twice married. In 1872 he wedded Fannie B. Bruce, who died January 26, 1892. For fifteen years she had been an invalid, and with her husband had traveled throughout the United States in search of health. She possessed many excellent characteristics and admirable qualities and her loss was deeply mourned by her friends. She left one child, Susan B., who is now the wife of C. A. Kelly, of Winchester, Indiana. For his second wife Mr. Deem wedded Mrs. Mary E. Deem, the widow of his brother, James K. Deem, who died January 7, 1891. Their wedding was celebrated December 29, 1898. Mrs. Deem is a consistent and valued member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and both she and her husband contribute liberally to its support. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and for six years has been its treasurer. He, however, withholds his support from no movement or measure which he believes will prove of benefit in advancing the moral interests of his community. For many years he has been an exemplary member of Bolivar Lodge, No. 82, A. F. & A. M., and in his life exemplifies the beneficent teachings of the fraternity. He finds his chief source of recreation and pleasure in hunting and is an excellent shot. In 1893 he visited Wisconsin and killed the first two deer he ever saw in the woods. With several friends he each year takes a hunting trip, finding great enjoyment in traveling through the forests with his gun. In business circles he sustains an unassailable reputation and is justly and uniformly regarded as one of the most prominent and reliable business men of Eaton. His success in life may be ascribed to positive and determined pursuit of business and to the fact that he is a man of honesty and integrity. While he is unusually liberal in support of all church work within the pale of his own religious creed, he is too fairminded to confine his sympathies or charities within the boundary lines of tenet or creed, and any deserving call for aid outside of his church meets with equally ready response.

James K. Deem

Throughout his life James K. Deem was identified with the agricultural interests of Eaton county, and he possessed those sterling traits of character, reliability, honesty and worth so often found in men whose lives are close to nature. He was born in this county, August 2, 1844, and was reared upon the farm. At an early age he went into the fields where he followed the plow and assisted in the planting, continuing his work until harvests were garnered in the autumn. The public schools afforded him his educational privileges and he was ever a warm friend of the public-school system. He served as a director for a number of years and always did everything in his power to promote the cause of education and make it more effective that the young might be well prepared for the practical and responsible duties of life. Throughout his business career he carried on agricultural pursuits, and his methods of fanning were practical and progressive. His fields were ever well tilled and the improvements upon his place were kept in good repair. His enterprise and labors brought to him creditable success, and in all business transactions his word was as good as his bond. He often said a good name was rather to be chosen than great riches, and he cared much more for the merited respect of his fellow men than for the financial reward which he might secure from his labor. His indeed was an upright life, well worthy of emulation.

On the 24th of December, 1868, Mr. Deem was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Bruce, and together they lived happily until death separated them, on the 7th of January, 1891. One son was born to them, Charles H., who is living near Eaton. Several years after the death of her first husband Mrs. Deem became the wife of his brother, George W. Deem.

Frank G. Shuey

greater opportunity for advancement than in that of the law - a profession in which votaries must, if successful, be endowed with native talent, sterling rectitude of character and singleness of purpose, while equally important concomitants are close study, careful appreciation and broad general knowledge, in addition to that of a more purely technical order. Of the legal profession Frank G. Shuey is a worthy representative and enjoys a distinctly representative clientele at Camden.

He was born on the 19th of August, 1866, in Germantown, Ohio. His father, Michael Shuey, was a native of the same locality, born September 22, 1822, and is now -living a retired life in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. A representative of an old Virginian family, his father, Lewis Shuey, was bcrn in that state, about 1790, and, emigrating westward, took up his abode in Germantown, Ohio, where his death occurred about 1873. He was a miller, farmer and merchant and also conducted a distillery on his farm. His busy and useful life brought to him good financial returns. He was married when about seventeen years of age, and, coming to Ohio, entered land from the government along Big Twin creek. Later he made other purchases and added to his property from time to time, becoming an extensive land owner. He also did a large and successful mercantile business and at his death left a comfortable estate. He had four sons : Lewis and Philip, both of whom died in Germantown; Jacob, who was engaged in the milling business and died in Miamisburg, Ohio ; and Michael, who is the last survivor of the family. These uncles of our subject were all married and had large families, and all learned and followed the milling business

Michael Shuey was reared in the Buckeye state, and when he had attained to years of maturity he chose as a companion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Mary H. Ireland, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1839, a daughter of Tyndal Ireland, whose wife bore the meaiden name of McBridle. They had a considerable number of children, their daughter, Mary, being one of the older. Mr. and Mrs. Shuey were married in Ohio, about 1864. The father had been previously married, his first wife having been Miss McGriff, and their children were: Lewis, John, Kittie, Erastus, Jesse, Odlin, Charles and Harrison. All have been married, with the exception of the daughter, whose home is with her father. By the second marriage there were six children : Minnie, the wife of Samuel Sowers, of St. Mary's, Ohio; Frank G. ; Raymond, a resident of Dayton, Ohio ; Firman, who was drowned at the age of six years; Lottie, a young lady at home; and Stanley, a teacher in Gratis township. All of the children were reared in the house in which Michael Shuey and his wife still make their home. It is situated upon a valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres, upon which is also a mill property, the mill being located just across the street from the dwelling. Mr. Shuey gave to his family liberal educational advantages, some of them attending college. Lewis received superior intellectual training and is now a pharmacist of Dayton.

was graduated at the age of eighteen. The following year he was graduated in the Twin Valley College, being one of the first to complete the course in that institution. Desiring to enter professional life, he prepared for the bar as a student in the Cincinnati Law School, in which he was graduated in 1895, after which he was licensed to practice at Columbus, Ohio. He at once opened an office in Camden, purchasing the law library and succeeding to the practice of J. M. Shafer. He also taught school for several years in Camden and was superintendent of the city schools here for three years, after which he spent one year in a similar capacity in Miamisburg. His entire time and attention, however, are now given to his chosen profession and he practices in all the courts of the county, doing a particularly large probate business. His knowledge of law is accurate and comprehensive and he prepares his cases with great thoroughness and precision, thus being able to present his cause with strength and ability before court or jury.

On the 29th of December, 1891, Mr. Shuey was happily married to Miss Lora Ferguson, a daughter of Dr. F. S. Ferguson, a prominent practicing physician of Camden. Her father was born in Oxford, Ohio, November 14, 1834, and is a son of John Ferguson, whose birth occurred in Campbelltown, Scotland, on the 8th of April, 1810. The latter served a seven-years apprenticeship to the tinner's and plumber's trades, and with six companions came to America when a young man, crossing the Atlantic in 1832. They soon separated after reaching the new world, but fifty years later five of the number met. A short time before his emigration John Ferguson married Catherine McGregor. For a year they resided in

Cincinnati, thence removed to Oxford,. Ohio, where Mr. Ferguson prospered in his undertakings, and where they reared a family of seven children, only two of whom are now living: Christina, the widow of George B. Morris, of Oxford ; and Dr. Ferguson. The parents were Scotch Presbyterians in their religious faith, and the father was a prominent Knight Templar Mason. The mother died at the age of fifty-seven and he was again married, his second union being with Isabel McMillan, of Glasgow, Scotland, by whom he had one son, Bruce Ferguson, now a student in the Miami University, at Oxford.

Dr. Ferguson, the father of Mrs. Shuey,. attended the public schools of Oxford and was graduated in the Miami University with the class of 1857. He began reading medicine in his native town, graduated in the Ohio Medical. College in 1861, and the same year began practice in Somerville, Ohio, where he remained until May, 1864, when he was appointed assistant surgeon of the One Hundred and Sixty-seventh Ohio Infantry, continuing in the service until September of that year. He was then appointed, acting assistant surgeon in the United States army and assigned to duty in West Virginia. After being mustered out he was in the hospital service at Madison, Indiana,, until the close of the war. He then came to Camden, where he practiced medicine in partnership with Dr. L. D. Dunham for two years, and then became his partner's successor. Next he was alone until 1884, when he formed a partnership with Dr. D. W. McQueen, which relation was maintained until November, 1899.

(George) Bohn. They have two children, Lora B., now Mrs. Shuey ; and John, at home. The mother died December 12, 1891, at the age of forty-eight years, respected by all who knew her. The Doctor is a member of the Odd Fellows order and is a past grand. He also belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, is a Republican in politics and served for three years as pension examiner under President Harrison, and was again appointed to that position in October, 1899, by President McKinley. He has served as a member of the common council and of the school board, and was reared in the Presbyterian church, of which he has been a trustee for twenty-five years. He is a charter member and for the past twelve years has been the president of the Camden Building & Loan Association. He belongs to the Preble County and the Union District Medical Societies and is a leading representative of the medical fraternity in this part of the county. In 1872 he erected a very pleasant and commodious residence in Camden, and since his wife's death his daughter, Mrs. Shuey. has had charge of his home. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Shuey have been born one son, Arthur Ferguson, a bright little lad of seven summers, whose birth occurred October 16, 1892.

Mr. Shuey is a very prominent Mason and is one of the six thirty-second-degree Masons in Preble county. He served as the master of Camden Lodge, No. 259, F. & A. M., for two years, belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, of Eaton, is a member of the Odd Fellows society and a past grand of the encampment. He likewise holds membership with the Foresters. In politics he is a stanch and earnest Republican and is serving his fourth year as township clerk, to which position he was first appointed and afterward elected. He has also been a member of the board of deputy supervisors for three years. In religious faith he is connected with the Reformed church of Miamisburg, of which his father is also a member. He holds a state teacher's certificate, passing the examination in December, 1890. A man of scholarly attainments and strong individuality, he has not only a large law library, but is also the possessor of a very large private library, containing many of the leading works of fiction, history and science. Genial and courteous in manner and kindly in disposition, he occupies a leading place in the public regard, and he and his estimable wife enjoy the hospitality of the best homes in Camden and the surrounding country.

Henry Pundt

For over thirty years this gentleman was actively identified with the agricultural interests of Preble county, and was one of its honored and highly esteemed citizens. His possessions were all acquired through his own efforts, and as the result of his consecutive endeavor he won a place among the substantial men of his community.

Mr. Pundt was born in Germany, September 5, 1835, and was eighteen years of age at the time of his emigration to America, the voyage being made on a sailing vessel and lasting forty-six days. He located at once in West Alexandria, Prc-ble county, Ohio, and found work by the month in the employ of Dr. Nesbet, of that village, with whom he remained many years. Subsequently he was employed on the farm of John Lesher for a time. After his marriage he settled in Twin township, where he operated rented land for eleven years, and then purchased the farm in Harrison township, where his widow now resides. He made many improvements upon the place and successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising throughout life. He also dealt in stock and while engaged in that business became widely known all over the county. He would buy almost anything which he believed he could dispose of at an advantage. He was upright and honorable in all his dealings, and in business transactions his word was considered as good as his bond.

In 1862 Mr. Pundt was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Ryder, who was born October 7, 1842, a mile and a half south of West Alexandria in Twin township, Preble county, and in both ancestral lines is of Pennsylvania Dutch descent. Her father, John Ryder, a native of Pennsylvania, came to this county at an early day and became a prominent farmer of Twin township, where he died, at the age of seventy-five years. Her mother, who bore the maiden name of Hannah Gebhart, was born in Miamisburg, Ohio, and died in her eightythird year. Mrs. Pundt was the fourth in order of birth in their family of ten children, five sons and five daughters, all born in Preble county, and she was reared in Twin township, her education being obtained in its district schools.

Kinsman, of Kansas, by whom she has one child living, Nellie; Katie, who majrried Henry Sobers, now of Kansas, and has two daughters - Edra and Elsa; Clara, the wife of Homer Brown, of Darke county, Ohio, by whom she has two sons - Victor and Ralph; Hannah, the wife of Frank Ramsey, of Lewisburg, this county, by whom she

On reaching Preble county Mr. Pundt had but twenty-five dollars with which to begin life in the new world, but being industrious, economical and ambitious, he# steadily prospered in his undertakings and was able to leave his family in comfortable circumstances. His widow still owns the home farm of one hundred and sixty-seven acres of land on section 22, Harrison township, and has displayed good business and executive ability in its management. Mr. Pundt died March 4, 1884, honored and respected by all who knew him, and the community realized that it had lost one of its valued and useful citizens. I11 politics he was a Democrat and in religious belief a Lutheran. He held office in his church and took quite a prominent part in religious work. His family is one of prominence in the community where they reside.

James Sayler

One of the prominent residents of Eaton is James Sayler, who is now engaged in the real estate and loan business. He is a native of Preble county, his birth having occurred in Winchester, on the 15th of April, 1830. His father, Christian Sayler, was born in Franklin county, Virginia, on the 4th of January, 1804, and was a son of Martin Sayler, who was born in Maryland, November 6, 1775. The ancestry of the family can be traced still farther back through several generations to Daniel Sayler, who was the founder of the family in America. A native of Switzerland, he was born January 15, 1708, and leaving the land of the Alps he crossed the Atlantic to the new world in 1725. For some time he was a resident of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, but his last days were passed in Frederick county, Maryland, where he died in 1778. His son, Christian Sayler, was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and in Frederick county, Maryland, he died, in 1797. He was the great-grandfather of our subject and the father of Martin Sayler, who established the family in Preble county. He removed from Maryland to Ohio in 1809 and was one of the three who laid out the town of Winchester, in 1817. Very prominent in public affairs, he left the impress of his individuality upon the county and was an active factor in advancing its interests along many lines. He enjoyed a most enviable reputation in his community as a millwright and was somewhat skilled as a surgeon. He was frequently solicited to become a candidate for office on account of his recognized ability and worth, but always declined the honors thus proffered him. Fie was a man of broad mind, well versed in the Bible, and was well known as a humorist - a quality which rendered him an entertaining companion.

Christian Sayler came to Preble county with his parents in the early part of the century and as a life work he chose the practice of medicine, beginning preparation for that calling under the direction of^Dr. Samuel Nixon. Later he attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, and when thorough and comprehensive study had well qualified him for the profession, he opened an office in Winchester, where he remained during his life. He won distinctive preferment as a leading physician, and had a very large practice, which brought to him a handsome competence. He was a man of fine appearance, rather quiet and reserved in manner, possessing a strong intellect. He was a deep thinker, and justly ranked among the most prominent citizens of his community.

James Sayler, whose name introduces this review, acquired his literary education in the common schools, and afterward filled the position of superintendent of the public schools of Winchester. Political questions awakening his deep interest, he has given close and earnest thought to the issues before the public, and was early recognized as one of the leading members of the Republican party in his community. In 1867 he was elected to represent Preble county in the state legislature, and was re-elected in 1869. In 1872 he was elected state senator for Preble and Montgomery counties, and while in the upper house ho served on the finance committee and was the chairman of the committee on common schools and school lands in the lower house. He championed several measures which time has proved to be of value. In 1881 he removed to Eaton, where he has since engaged in the real estate and loan business. In all matters of public trust his reputation is unassailable, and his integrity above question.

On the 15th of March, 1855, Mr. Sayler was united in marriage to Miss Sarah E. Kesling, a daughter of William Kesling, of Springboro, Ohio. Her great-grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, enlisting from Rockingham county, Virginia. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sayler were born four children : Marcus, who is engaged in the practice of medicine in Socorro, New Mexico; Walter, an ex-member of the legislature and a practicing attorney of Chicago; Carl E., who is engaged in the real estate business in Chicago, and James L., who is practicing law in Eaton.

Mr. Sayler and his family attend the Christian church and take a very active part in the work of the church. His public and private career are alike above reproach, and in all life's relations he has been true and faithful to the trust reposed in him.