Washington Township (part 9 of 21)

Roddie Reynolds

Mr. Reynolds was for a number of years one of the most prominent citizens of Preble county, a man whose life of earnest effort was honorable and upright, worthy of the -confidence and regard of his fellow men. He was born in Elfin, Roscommon county, Ireland, in 1844. His father belonged to one of the wealthy Irish families, and marrying a poor girl against the consent of his parents, he was disinherited. He came to the United States with his family when the subject of this review was only six years of age, landing in Boston in 1850. Later he removed to Trenton, New Jersey, and in 1856 the family came to Preble county, the father having died of cholera in the meantime. In the public schools Roddie Reynolds pursued his education and afterward learned the printer's and tinner's trades. When seventeen years of age he began business on his own account as a dealer in hardware, tinware and stoves. He also became an ironwork contractor, and by careful management and honorable dealing soon secured a liberal patronage and built up a good business. After the breaking out of the civil war he twice attempted to enlist in the United States army, but was rejected on account of being too young for the service. In May, 1864, he joined the United States navy, and became master's mate on the flagship General Burnside, of the Mississippi squadron, and in December, 1864, was made executive officer of the steamship General Thomas, of the same squadron. He rendered splendid service for his country, ad in recognition of his loyalty and ability he was presented with a beautiful sword by Lieutenant-Commander Moreau Forrest, of the squadron. He operated mostly on the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers, and the exposure which he endured in defense of the country led to the sickness which resulted in his death on the 19th of October, 1884, at the age of forty years. The exposure to all kinds of weather affected his voice so greatly that he was obliged to resign in 1865, being unable to give commands.

On the 29th of November, 1866, Mr. Reynolds was united in marriage to Miss S. E. Daugherty, a daughter of John M. Daugherty, who lived in Preble county for many years. Their union was blessed with three children, of whom two are living: Louis Clement Reynolds, who is now an attorney of Eaton; and Nellie S., the wife of

After his return from the war Mr. Reynolds resumed business as a hardware merchant and iron-work contractor, continuing his connection with the mercantile interests of Eaton until 1879, when he went to Washington, D. C., to accept the position of presidential clerk in the sixth auditor's office. He served as chief clerk for a time, and for a period was also the private secretary of General Le Fevre, congressman. On leaving Washington he was presented with a fine set of resolutions from his associates, expressing their high regard for him and their regret at his departure. Mr. Reynolds was a very enterprising and capable business man whose advancement resulted entirely from his own efforts. He worked his way upward, overcoming all difficulties and obstacles in his path, and as a result of his keen discernment, wise judgment and unflagging industry, he met with creditable success. In politics he was a stalwart Republican and was a very prominent and influential citizen.

Mrs. Reynolds now owns the old homestead of her parents that has been in the possession of the family for eighty years, it being settled by Samuel Hunt, the maternal grandfather of John M. Daugherty, the father of Mrs. Reynolds. Joseph Hunt, the grandfather of Samuel Hunt, served throughout the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Reynold's paternal grandfather served his country as a captain of militia in the war of 1812. Mrs. Reynolds has been connected with the Daughters of the American Revolution since December, 1893, belonging to St. Clair Chapter, of Preble county, and has been the regent since its organization, taking a deep interest and a very active part in its work. She is also a leading member of the Ladies of Naval Veterans' Association, of Providence, Rhode Island. She was a delegate to the annual convention of this association at Chicago in August, 1900, where she was elected its national secretary. She is also the chaplain of the Woman's Relief Corps, of Eaton ; is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and is very active in the State Historical and Archaeological Society of Ohio. She was appointed as lady representative of Preble county to the World's Fair. She has been secretary of the Children's Home since its organization under the present state law, and is deeply interested in benevolent and philanthropic work generally.

At her suggestion the ladies of Preble county had a buckeye tree cut on the one hundredth anniversary of the battle of Fort St. Clair, which took place here. This tree was cut by Lieutenant-Governor Harris and Mayor A. C. Risinger, and, being made into a cabinet or desk, was sent as an exhibit to the World's Fair. Later it was returned to Preble county, and it is proposed to keep the desk in preservation until the two hundredth anniversary of the battle.

On the 27th of May, 1897, Mrs. Reynolds and other ladies edited and published the Eaton Register, the proceeds of which were donated by the owners of the paper to the fund that was being raised to erect a monument to the unknown dead. In this work Mrs. Reynolds was associated with Mrs. M. S. Fisher, Mrs. M. V. Michael, Mrs. A. W. Risinger, Mrs. M. J. Welsh and Mrs. M. K. Stubbs. A member of the Research Literary Society, of Eaton, Mrs. Reynolds has also served as its president. It was this organization which gave the colors to the Ortt Rifles, and recently incorporated the Eaton public library. She took the United

Mrs. Reynolds is a lady of strong individuality, of marked force of character, of splendid intellectual attainments and has left the impress of her character and work upon the mental, moral and esthetic development of Preble county. Her philanthropic spirit has prompted her to many acts of benevolence. She has carried her literary researches far and wide into historic, scientific and classical fields, and among the prominent ladies of Preble county she is recognized as a leader of thought and social movement.

Thomas J. Stubbs

Thomas J. Stubbs is a native of Preble county, Ohio, born on a farm about two miles east of West Elkton, on the 10th day of August, 1838. His parents were Elisha and Elizabeth (Townsend) Stubbs. Elisha Stubbs was born in Georgia, November 29, 1798, and was a son of Thomas and Mary (Hobson) Stubbs. Thomas Stubbs also was born in Georgia, and was a son of John and Esther (Maddock) Stubbs, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania and was the fourth son of Thomas and Mary (Minor) Stubbs, natives of England. Thomas Stubbs was the progenitor of this family in America. He emigrated from England to America about 1718, and soon after married Mary Minor, in Chester county, Pennsylvania, in 1720. They were both members of the Society of Friends, and reared nine children, viz. : Daniel, Esther,

Thomas, John, Joseph, Mary, Elizabeth, Sarah and Ann Stubbs. The genealogy of the Stubbs family may be traced back for many centuries - to Richard, of Hull, England.

and Mary (Minor) Stubbs, removed from Pennsylvania to North Carolina in the spring of 1755, and there married Esther Maddock, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Joseph Maddock, and they had fourteen children. About 1768 they removed to a point within about thirty miles of Augusta, Georgia, where they both died, he dying December 27, 1803, aged seventy-one years. Unto John and Esther (Maddock) Stubbs were born these children : Hannah,.

Jesse, Nathan, Isaac, Thomas, Samuel, Rachael, Esther, Deborah, Mary, John, William, Joseph and Sarah. The last named died in infancy, while all the others grew to mature years, married and in a short time after their father's death removed to and settled in the southwestern part of Ohio, with the exception of Jesse Stubbs, who settled in Indiana some forty miles from where his brothers and sisters had settled in Ohio. Of these children Thomas Stubbs was born near Augusta, Georgia, in 1775, and died near West Elkton, Ohio, June 29, 1844. He married Mary Hobson and came to Preble county, Ohio, in 1805, and devoted his life to the pursuit of farming. To Thomas and Mary (Hobson) Stubbs were born the following children : Elisha, Arab, Charles,

Elisha Stubbs came to Preble county, Ohio, with his parents in 1805, and settled with them in Gratis township. September 9, 1819, he married Elizabeth Townsend, a daughter of John and Elvira (Cane) Townsend. Her father was a soldier of the Revolution. He and wife came from Georgia, and each lived to a ripe old age, he dying in 1853, aged nearly ninety years, and she at the age of one hundred and two years and four days. Unto Elisha and Elizabeth

(Townsend) Stubbs were born eight children, viz. : Eli, Hiram, Keziah, Rachael H., Enos P., Isaac C., Thomas J. and Esther T. The father of these children was a natural mechanic and worked at the cooper's trade to some extent, and erected most of the buildings on his own farm. Pie was a Whig in early life and on the dissolution of that party joined the ranks of the new Republican party. For several years he served as a justice of the peace, hearing a commission dated 1826 and signed by Governor Jeremiah Morrow. He and wife were members of the Society of Friends, and were among the highly respected people of their community. During the last years of their lives they resided in the village of West Elkton, and were laid to rest in Friends cemetery at this place. Their influence for good was long potent in the community in which they resided.

Thomas J. Stubbs, whose name introduces this record, was educated in the common schools. His observing eye and retentive memory have enabled him to add largely to his knowledge since putting aside his school books. He was reared to farm life. He inherited some of his father's mechanical genius and about twenty years ago began work at the stone-mason's trade, which he followed for some time, as well as carpentering. However, the greater part of his life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits, and today he owns and occupies a farm on section 29, Gratis township, his home being pleasantly located about one-half mile west of the village of West Elkton, in the neighborhood of which place his entire life has been spent. His father, serving for many years as a justice of the peace, and doingmuch legal business in the drawing up of deeds and other documents and in the settlements of estates, his son, after the father's death, was naturally turned to for the transaction of like forms of business. Some fifteen years ago he was commissioned a notary public by Governor James E. Campbell. He has done much legal, business in the settlement of estates, serving as administrator, executor and guardian, and in the drawing up of many legal documents. He is also a justice of the peace.

On the 2d of September, 1858, Mr. Stubbs was united in marriage to Miss Rachel A. Stubbs, a distant relative and a daughter of Nathan and Ann (Mendenhall) Stubbs. Her father died when she was nine years of age. She was born in Preble county, April 8, 1841. Her brothers and sisters who reached years of maturity were Martha Ann, the wife of Lewis Taylor and a minister in the Friends church; Elijah M., who died in Kansas, at the age of fifty-nine years; Elizabeth J., the wife of Zimri Stubbs; Milton, who is living in Lyons county, Kansas ; and Marmaduke M., who was killed at Camden, Ohio, by the cars.

Unto Thomas J. and Rachel A. Stubbs were born five children, viz. : Effie L., born December 22, 1859, and died May 6, 1885; she began teaching in her eighteenth year and was successful in her calling. The second child was Alva E., who died at the age of two and a half years. The living children are D. E. Stubbs, of whom brief mention is made farther on ; Bertha A., born May 9, 1871 ; and Verona, born December 7, 1873, who is the wife of F. C. Roberts, of the vicinity of West Elkton. The parents are members of the Society of Friends, and for years have been overseers in the church. In political views Mr. Stubbs is a stanch Republican, and as a citizen and official he has ever been true to public duty and trust de-

D. E. Stubbs, of Eaton, Ohio, was born near West Elkton, Ohio, August 21, 1865, and is a son of Thomas J. Stubbs, of whom mention is made above. He was educated at Earlham College, Richmond, Indiana, in which city he learned printing and binding. Finishing his trade he worked as journeyman for several years, visiting and working in many places throughout the United States. During the time he did considerable work as reporter and correspondent. His first newspaper work was done while he was a student in Earlham College as a writer for the Associated Press. He has always been a writer for the Associated Press and is also special correspondent for several leading daily papers. In the spring of 1888 he purchased the Twin Valley Times, of West Alexandria, Ohio, and for about four years thereafter remained the proprietor and editor that weekly paper. Selling the paper, he came to Eaton and purchased an interest in the Eaton Democrat, and for more than a year was associated with Mr. L. G. Gould in the publication of the Democrat. Selling his interest in this paper Mr. Stubbs embarked in the stationery and book business in Eaton. At the same time establishing in connection therewith a job printing business. After a duration he discontinued the stationery and book business that he might devote his entire time to job printing and book binding, which he has since continued with success.

Fraternally Mr. Stubbs is a member of the Knights of Pythias. As a printer and book binder Mr. Stubbs is a master of his trade and has made a success in this line of business. As a writer he has gained a good reputation, and as a citizen he is numbered among the representative.

Augustus A. McNeill is occupying the position of postmaster of New Paris, and in the discharge of his duties has won high commendation, showing that the public trust reposed in him is well merited. He was born in Clermont county, Ohio, April 13, i860, and is of Irish lineage, manifesting in his life many of the sturdy and stalwart characteristics of that race. His grandfather, John McNeill, was born in Ireland and came to America in 1812, locating in Monroe township, Clermont county, Ohio, where he reared his children and followed the occupation of farming. He secured land from the government, transformed it into rich and fertile fields and upon the old homestead spent his remaining days. He had six sons and six daughters who reached adult age and eight of the number yet survive. John McNeill, Jr., the father of our subject, was born in Clermont county, Ohio, and there remained until twenty-one years of age, when he went to California, remaining upon the Pacific slope for about four years, engaged in mining. Upon bis return he again located in the county of his nativity, where he carried on farming for some time. During the civil war his patriotic spirit was aroused and with marked loyalty and devotion to the old flag he raised a company which went to the front. Afterward he re-enlisted and was the captain of a company of the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. For a number of years he was identified with the agricultural interests of Preble county. He married Caroline Fee, a native of Clermont county, Ohio, who was reared in the same locality as her husband, a daughter of Daniel Fee, a noted Abolitionist whose home became a station on the famous underground railroad, whereby many a slave was assisted on his way to freedom. He was of Scotch descent. By the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. McNeill three children, one son and two daughters, were born. The father died in Preble county, in 1891, at the age of sixty-one years, but the mother still survives, at the age of sixty-nine years.

Augustus A. McNeill, their only son, spent the first fourteen years of his life in Clermont county, Ohio, and then accompanied his parents on their removal to Richmond, this state, Where he remained for four years. At the age of eighteen he came with them to Preble county, a location being made upon a farm in Jefferson township. He remained with the family until his marriage, which occurred on the 1st of April, 1881, Miss Frances S. Paul becoming his wife. She is a native of Jefferson township and a daughter of James H. and Margaret J. (Brinley) Paul, who were early settlers of Preble county. They now have two interesting children, Paul F. and Flavilla, at home.

After his marriage Mr. McNeill engaged in buying stock in connection with his father-in-law for some time and later operated his father's farm until 1894, when he came to New Paris and embarked in the lumber business. He was connected with the commercial interests of the city in that way until August, 1897, When he was appointed postmaster by President McKinley and still serves in that position. His administration of the affairs of the office is business-like. He is notably prompt and reliable and in office has won a very high reputation. He has served as the assessor of his township for two terms and was a trustee for six years. His political support is given the Republican party and he is most loyal to its principles. He belongs to the New Paris Lodge, No. 303, I. O. O. F., with which he has been identified since 1887, and its benevolent and fraternal principles he exemplifies in his life.

John Phillip Sauer

Extensively engaged in farming in Jackson township, Preble county, Mr. Sauer is the owner of four hundred and forty-five acres of valuable land, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation until the well tilled fields now yield to him a handsome return. In the pastures are found good grades of stock, and everything about the place is neat and thrifty in appearance. The owner follows the progressive methods of farming and has one of the most desirable and attractive homes in this section of the state. A native of Ohio, 'he was born in Butler county, on the 15th of February, 1842, his parents being William and Sarah A. (Potterf) Sauer. The father was born in Germany, on the 10th of March, 1809, and was a son of John P. and Christina Sauer. He worked in his father's vineyard in early life and when he was eighteen years of age accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, the family locating in Butler county where the grandfa- ther established a distillery. In its operations he was assisted by his son William until four years after the latter's marriage, when he removed to Preble county and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land west of West Alexandria, in Twin township, the farm upon which his son George T. now resides. There he made his home for a number of years, but his last days were spent in West Alexandria, where he died on the 27th of October, 1888. He was an ardent Democrat in politics and a strong anti-slavery man. For many years he held membership in the Lutheran church and took an active part in its work, doing all in his power to promote the cause of Christianity among men. In his family were nine children, of whom eight are living, namely : Christy A., wife of Herman Steinmeyer, a prominent farmer of Twin township; John P., our subject; George T., a farmer of Twin township, Preble county; James B., a farmer of Lanier township, Preble county ; Catherine, wife of John Pundt, of Johnson county, Kansas; Mary A., wife of Thomas F. Ryder, a farmer of Lanier township, Preble county; Ida, wife of Samuel Smith, a farmer and dairyman of Twin township; and Edward M., a farmer of Washington township, Preble county.

John Phillip Sauer acquired his education in the common schools and was reared upon his father's farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey he chose Miss Caroline Steinmeyer, their marriage being celebrated on the 16th of June,, 1864. The lady is a daughter of Frederick Steinmeyer. In February following his marriage Mr. Sauer took up his abode on the farm where he now resides, and during the succeeding five years rented a quartersection of land from his father. In 1870 he purchased the farm and has since become one of the substantial agriculturists of the county. As the years have passed and his financial resources have increased he has added to his property until within the home place is embraced four hundred and fortyfive acres of rich land. For the past twenty years he has also engaged in feeding cattle. He began that business on a small scale but his trade has steadily increased until he is now one of the largest feeders in this section of the county. His business interests have been energetically prosecuted and his labors have brought to him a very enviable degree of success. For the past four years he has been the agent for the Page Wire Fence for the territory included within Dixon township and the southern half of Jackson township. He is a man of resourceful business ability, wide-awake, alert, diligent and enterprising, and he carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes. His business methods are honorable, commanding the respect and confidence of all, and those who know him regard him as a most straightforward and reliable man.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Sauer have been born four children, of whom three are living : Edward C., who is engaged in farming a portion of the home place, married Miss Emma C. Schloterbeck, and they have two children, Hazel and Carl Clayton; Frederick W. married Miss Orclena McWhinney and is also engaged in operating a part of the home farm ; and Dena L. is at home. In his political views Mr. Sauer is a Democrat, and for several years he has served as a member of the board of education. The schools find in him a warm friend, for he recognizes the value of education as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. He has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking, but keeps well informed on the issues of the day and gives an intelligent support to his party. He devotes his attention almost exclusively to his business affairs and his interests are well managed and carefully conducted and bring to him a very desirable financial return.

Christian Flora

Christian Flora has passed the seventyfifth milestone on life's journey, and his career has been an active, useful and honorable one. He has long been numbered among the farmers of Jackson township, Preble county, where he is the owner of a valuable tract of land. He was born in Franklin county, Virginia, March 29, 1824, and is of German lineage. His great-grandfather, Joseph Flora, was the founder of the family in America, having emigrated to the new world from Germany. His son, Joseph Flora, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Franklin county, Virginia, and there occurred the birth of Jonathan Flora, the father of our subject. The latter came to Ohio in 1831, taking up his abode in Gasper township, Preble county. For many years he carried on agricultural pursuits, his death occurring in 1865. In religious faith he was a Dunkard, holding membership with that church. He wedded Mary Bowman, who was born in Franklin county, Virginia, belonged to one of the old and honored families of that state, and died in 1880. This worthy couple were the parents of ten children, five of whom are yet living: Catherine, wife of John Studebaker, of Cass county, Indiana ; Christian ; John, who is living in Liberty, Indiana; Mary, widow of Thomas

Charles and a resident of Gasper township, Preble county; and Jonathan, of Eaton. The deceased were Hannah, who married David Spitler; Elizabeth, who married Abram Cooper; Susanna, who married Benjamin Cooper; Nancy, who died unmarried; and Peter.

When only seven years of age Christian Flora accompanied his parents on their emigration to the Buckeye state. He attended the country schools in Gasper township and was reared to the work of the farm, early becoming familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist.

In 1848 he was married and began operating a farm on his own account. He continued to rent land until 1851, when he purchased the Franklin McWhinney farm, just north of his present home. It was in 1855 that he purchased the old homestead where he has since lived. His careful cultivation of the fields has brought to him a good income, and . he has long been known as one of the leading and enterprising agriculturists of the community. During the civil war he was a stanch Union man and contributed freely of his means in support of the cause. He was one of the celebrated "squirrel riflemen'' who, upon the governor's call for troops, went to Cincinnati to aid in repelling the threatened invasion of Morgan who was making his way northward from Kentucky. During his absence his wife, a most patriotic and loyal woman, drove a four-horse team to a reaper in the wheat field. She was also active in the work of the Sanitary Aid Society, and did all she could to advance the Union cause and promote the interests of the men on the field and in the hospital.

gentleman whose name introduces this review. Her father, David Potterf, was born September 14, 1802, and died February 13, 1 874. The Potterf family is also of German lineage and was founded in America by the great-grandfather of Mrs. Flora, who settled in Rockingham county, Virginia. His son, Gasper Potterf, was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, in 1754, and came to Ohio in 1806, settling in what is now Gasper township, Preble* county. The township of Gasper was named in his honor, receiving his first name, and during the early development of the county he was one of its prominent and influential citizens. Prior to emigrating westward he loyally served in the war of the Revolution, participating in the battles of Brandywine, Valley Forge and Yorktown, being present at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, and he was also at one time a prisoner in the hands of the English. He had the honor and pleasure of being present when General Washington delivered his farewell address to the army. He was married in 1784 to Susannah Ridenour, who died in 1831, and his death occurred in Gasper township, on the 4th of October, 1836, when he had reached the age of eighty-two years. David Potterf, the father of Mrs. Flora, was a farmer by occupation, and having arrived at years of maturity he wedded Anna Sorber, a daughter of Jacob and Catherine Sorber, who came to Preble county in 1 8 1 1 . She was a consistent and faithful member of the Reformed church, and died in March, 1895, aged eighty-six years, respected by all who knew her. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Potterf were born eleven children, seven of whom are yet living, namely : Mrs. Flora; George W., a physician of Sterling, Kansas; Eliza J., wife of Isaiah Ross, of West Alexandria, Ohio; Mary C., wife of

John Flora, of Liberty, Indiana ; Anna M., wife of Jacob Klinger, of West Alexandria. Lewis A. and David E., who are also residents of West Alexandria. The four deceased children are : Susannah, who married Joseph Barmhizer; Catherine, wife of Lonis Pottenger; Jacob C. ; and Philena, who died in infancy.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Flora were born four children : Edwin E., who is living in Sumner county, Kansas; Alvina F., wife of Marks Deem, of Eaton; Perry C., a resident of Jackson township; and Anna B., wife of G. W. Rehfuss, of Eaton. Throughout the greater part of their married life Mr. and Mrs. Flora have resided upon the farm which is now their home, their residence here covering a period of forty-five years. They are widely and favorably known in the community and are leading members of the Christian church of Eaton, in which they take a very active part. They contributed liberally to its support and Mr. Flora has served as a member of its board of deacons. In his political views he is a stalwart Republican, having supported that party since its organization. For many years he served as township trustee and as school trustee, discharging his duties with marked promptness and fidelity. All who know him high ly for his sterling worth, and it is with pleasure that we present the record of this honored pioneer and respected farmer to the readers of this volume.

Dentistry may be said to be almost unique among other occupations, as it is at once a profession, a trade and a business. Such being the case it follows that in order to attain the highest success in it one must be thoroughly conversant with the theory of the art, must be expert in the many tools and appliances incidental to the practice of modern dentistry, and must possess business qualifications adequate to dealing with the financial side of the profession. In none of these qualifications is Dr. Wilcox lacking, and to-day he is numbered among the skillful representatives of his chosen profession, which fact is indicated by the liberal patronage which is accorded to him.

His entire life has been passed in Preble county. He was born in Monroe township, this county, May 14, 185 1. His father, Abram Wilcox, was a native of the Empire state, where he was reared to manhood. Ultimately he made his way down the Ohio river to Cincinnati and thence to Preble county. He was a cooper by trade and carried on that business first at Eldorado and afterward at New Paris. In his political views he was a Democrat who was never an aspirant for office, preferring to give his attention to his business affairs. He married Miss Henrietta Brightwell, who was born and reared in Maryland, a daughter of John Brightwell, who served his country in the war of 1812. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox were born seven children, four of whom reached years of maturity. The father died at the age of sixty-seven years and the mother passed away in the eightieth year of her age.

Dr. Wilcox is the youngest child and only son of his parents' family who reached adult age. He was reared in Eldorado until 1861, when, at the age of ten, he came with his parents to New Paris and in the schools of this city supplemented the knowledge which he had gained in the former town. Deciding to devote his life to the practice of dentistry, he began preparing for the profession when sixteen years of age as a student in the office of Dr. J. L. Braffett in New Paris. He remained with him for three years as an apprentice, after which he became the Doctor's partner and that connection continued for five years. Dr. Wilcox has since engaged in practice alone and is one of the oldest dentists in years of continuous connection with the profession in the state. He has much natural mechanical ability as well as a comprehensive knowledge of the practical principles of dentistry and has secured many patents on original devices for performing the work of his profession. He certainly has one of the best equipped offices in the state and his superior skill and ability have given to him prestige as a representative of his chosen calling.

The Doctor has been twice married. In Boston, Indiana, in 1880, he married Miss Viola Clingpeel, by whom he had a daughter, Henrietta B. P., who is now attending school. His first wife died about six years after their marriage. The Doctor's present wife was formerly Mrs. Minnie Halley, a daughter of Samuel Mitchell and a native of Preble county. In his political views Dr. Wilcox is a stanch Democrat and keeps well informed on the issues of the day, giving to his party an intelligent support. Recognized as one of its leaders in his community, he was elected on its ticket to the office of mayor of New Paris in 1890 and served most acceptably in that position. He belongs to Fellowship Lodge, No. 106, F. & A. M., and to the Knights of Pythias of Eldorado and I. O. O. F. of New Paris. He also holds membership in the Eastern Indiana Dental Association and spares no expense nor effort that will advance his knowledge and skill in his chosen profes- sion. His patience, unfailing courtesy and kindliness have made him very popular, both in business life and in the social circles, and he well merits the high regard in which he is uniformly held.

Charles W. Bloom

One of the most prominent representatives of the journalistic profession in Preble county is the gentleman whose name introduces this review, the well-known editor and proprietor of the New Paris Mirror. A native of this county, he was born in Jef ferson township, September 4, 1846, and fs a son of Guy and Hannah (Jameson) Bloom. The father was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1815, and about 1825 accompanied his parents on their removal to Darke county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood upon a farm. He came to Preble county when a young man and was married in New Paris to Hannah Jameson, who was born in Kentucky, in 1827, and was brought to New Paris in 1836 by her father, Wesley Jameson, also a native of Kentucky, who left there in the '50s and died in Noblesville, Indiana. Our subject's paternal grandfather, named Joseph Bloom, was born in Pennsylvania, of German descent, and died in Darke county, this state. Throughout his active business life the father followed farming in Preble county, and was well and favorably known. Fraternally he was a Mason. Lie died in September, 1883, and his wife passed away in 1899. Our subject is the oldest of their ten children, all born in Preble county. The others who are still living are Horace G. ; Mary, the wife of William B. Reid; and Homer.

Charles W. Bloom was principally educated in the common schools, hut also attended the academy at Richmond, Indiana, for a time. Going to that city at the age of nineteen years he was there engaged in the furniture business with his father for a while, and was also an engineer. On his return to New Paris he located on the home farm, which he operated during the summer months, while he taught school through the winter season for six years. While thus employed he was married, January 6, 1870, to Miss Anna Pence, also a native of Preble county and a daughter of Nimrod and Elizabeth Pence. By this union was born a daughter, Grace, who learned the printing business in her father's office and is now the wife of W. L. Hahn, a merchant of New Paris.

Mr. Bloom continued to engage in school teaching for four years after his marriage, and then devoted his time exclusively to his farming interests until 1884. He still owns a good farm of one hundred and eighteen acres in Jefferson township, which he now rents. Removing to New Paris, in 1884, he has since engaged in the printing business. He is the editor of the Mirror, which was established in 1877, and was published under the name of the Business Mirror for some time. The first paper with which he was connected was The Amateur, in 1877, since which time he has been more or less interested in journalistic work, and in connection with the publication of his present paper he also conducts a job printing office.

In the spring of 1864 Mr. Bloom served one hundred days as a member of the Ohio National Guards. Lie is a prominent an 1 active member of New Paris Lodge, No. 303, I. O. O F., of which he has been secretary for twelve years, and he has been quite an influential and prominent member of the Prohibition party, having always been a strong temperance man. He was a member of tbe national convention of that party held at Pittsburg, in 1896, and for four years took a very active part in politics, but since the disruption of that party during the convention he has voted independently. Religiously he is a member of the Universalist church and is now serving as moderator of the same. He takes a deep interest in everything pertaining to the public welfare of his town, and withholds his support from no enterprise calculated to prove of public benefit.

A retired physician of Eaton, Dr. Welsh has well earned a period of rest by a long life of usefulness and activity in the medical profession. For over forty years he ministered to suffering humanity in Eaton and the surrounding country, and he was the loved family physician of many a household. No night was so dark or so stormy that it prevented his reaching the bedside of the sick or distressed, and he never refused to respond to a professional call even though he knew the hope of pecuniary reward was slight. Though disposed to be wise and careful in the expenditure of his energies, it is said that he was never too tired or too sick to go when called. Being a man of strong constitution, lie was able to undergo many hardships through his long and successful professional career. Now after many years of honorable connection with the medical fraternity he is permitted to retire from active practice and to enjoy the quiet and rest of a life, surrounded by all the necessities and many of the luxuries which go to make life worth the living, for he not only gained an enviable reputation for his skill

On the 30th of July, 1821, in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, Dr. Welsh was horn. He was eight years of age when his father died. When a youth of fifteen he removed with his mother to Indiana. Soon after attaining his majority he began, in an irregular way, the study of medicine, being at the same time engaged in school-teaching. In 1858 he was graduated at the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, and immediately afterward he located in Eaton, since which time he has been closely identified with the growth of this city and Preble county. During all this time he has been accounted one of the most skillful representatives of his profession and one of the most valuable and progressive citizens of the community. Though always to he relied upon as a friend of progress, interested in public matters, and ardent in the support of universal education, his activity in professional life and his duties as a physician precluded his active connection with public or social affairs. He served for many years on the board of education in Eaton and always favored liberal appropriations for carrying on the work and the employment of the best teachers. Much credit and praise is due the board of education, which secured for Eaton its present excellent school building on Barron street. Dr. Welsh was the president of that board and was influential in obtaining for Eaton the splendid building which stands as a monument to the intellectual activity of the; town, and especially to those who were members of tbe board at the time, of its erection.

At one time Dr. Welsh was interested in the banking business at Kokomo, Indiana, but through no fault of his own this enterprise proved a failure. He took no legal or other advantage to escape his responsibility, but finally paid off every liability to which he was legally and morally obligated, thus sustaining in the aggregate a loss of more than fifty thousand dollars. In his business transactions the Doctor has ever been fair and honorable, dealing justly with his fellow men. At no time has his integrity ever been called into question, and his word has ever been regarded as good as his bond.

The Doctor has been twice married, his first wife being Miss Eva J. Garver, whom he wedded May 16, 1841. She became the mother of six children, the eldest of whom was Dr. Isaac N. Welsh, who for many years successfully practiced dentistry in Eaton. Of the children only two survive - Mrs. A. C. Risinger and Dr. E. E. Welsh - both of Eaton. Of the others, Mary Amanda died at the age of four years ; Louisa became the wife of S. B. Tizzard and died in young womanhood ; and Lucy V. died in early life. On the 22 d of February,

1878, the mother was called to the home beyond this life and by a large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends her remains were borne to Mound Hill cemetery and there interred. She was a lady of sterling qualities, a devoted wife and mother and a faithful friend. On the nth of September,

1879, the Doctor was again married, his second union being with Miss Catherine Oakes, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. By the second marriage there is one son, James Oakes Welsh, who was born April 12, 1885.

In religious beiief the Doctor is a Universalist, and in politics he has been a Republican from the organization of the party. Previously he was an Abolitionist and Free- Soiler. He voted for James G. Birney, the

Though not a voter during the campaign of William Henry Harrison, he lent his aid and enthusiasm to further the interests of the "log-cabin candidate." In all life's relations he has borne the part of a true, sincere and honorable man. Successful in his chosen profession, proficient in business affairs, public-spirited, kind and considerate to his family and fellow men, he is numbered among the venerated and highly respected residents of Preble county, and certainly deserves honorable mention among the leading residents of Preble county.

Mrs. Katharine Oakes Welsh

Mrs. Katharine Oakes Welsh is a native of Callaway county, Missouri, and a daughter of Jeremiah and Catherine (Stutes) Oakes. Her paternal grandfather, Edward Prince Oakes, came to southwestern Indiana in the pioneer days, locating near Fairfield, Indiana. He married Elizabeth Mitchell, a representative of one of the prominent families of Massachusetts, while he came of an old family of Maine, in which state he was born. In the fall of 1841 Jeremiah Oakes and his wife removed to Missouri, but soon afterward left that state and returned to Fairfield, Indiana, where he died in December, 1845. Catherine Stutes was his second wife and survived him for forty years.

Katharine Oakes began her education in the public schools, attending the high school of Dayton, Ohio, and in 1869 was graduated at Antioch College with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. She subsequently engaged in teaching, following that profession for seventeen years. In 1864-5 she, was a teacher of the high school at Washington Court House, and in 1865-6 she taught in the pub- lie schools of Eaton. During the succeeding scholastic year she was at Antioch College. She taught at Milledgeville, Fayette county, Ohio, in the year 1867-8. On the 14th of February, 1870, she returned to Eaton, where she began teaching in the high school, remaining there for more than two years. From 1872 to 1874 she was the principal of the high school and Northern Building in Springfield, Ohio; from 1874 to 1878 she was the principal of the high school at Ravenna, Portage county, Ohio; and in 1878-9 taught in the preparatory department of Antioch College, at the. same time instructing a private class of young ladies. Her first teaching was done in the Southwest District school, in Dayton, Ohio, being employed in the absence of the regular teacher, though she was then but twelve years of age. The first compensation she ever received for teaching was five dollars, obtained for giving instruction in the first five books of geometry, at Yellow Springs, Ohio.

On the nth of September, 1879, she became the second wife of James B. Welsh, of Eaton, Ohio, by whom she has one son, James Oakes, now a student in the high school of this city. As a teacher Mrs. Welsh was very successful. She became prominently known among the educators of the state and gained a very enviable reputation as a representative of the profession. To her efforts was largely due the introduction and upbuilding of the Eaton high school in its beginning. In religious faith Mrs. Welsh is of the Disciples' church. Of scholarly attainments, strong mentality, keen discernment and foresight, aided by diplomacy and culture, she is a lady of remarkable ability and has left a favorable impress of her character in the various relations of life in which she has been called.

John Parker

One of the most enterprising and progressive business men of Preble county is John Parker, who resides in Jackson township, where he is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was born on the 15th of April, 1858, in the township which is still his home, his parents being Asher and Harriet (Larsh) Parker. The father was horn in Monmouth county. New Jersey, on the 24th of March, 1828, and when six years of age came with his parents to Ohio, the family locating in Butler county, where they remained for a year, and then removed to Sommers township, just west of Camden, in Preble county, where the grandparents, Lewis and Mary (Smith) Parker, spent their remaining days. They were both natives of Monmouth county. New Jersey, and the former was a son of William and Mary (Smith) Parker. They, too, were natives of the same state, and the Parkers were originally from Ireland, the first American emigrants reaching this country at an early period in its development. The maternal grandparents of our subject were John and Lydia (Truax) Larsh. The former was of French descent, became one of the pioneer settlers of Preble county and was a wellknown farmer of Dixon township.

Asher Parker was reared upon the home farm and was married on the 2d of March, 1852, to Miss Harriet Larsh, who was born in Dixon township, August xo, 1828. They began their domestic life on a farm on sec- I tion 20, Jackson township, where Mr. Parker operated one hundred and e'ghtv acres belonging to his father. T here he re- j mained for twelve years, after which he purchased one hundred and sixty-three acres on section 26, Jackson township, making his home thereon until 1886, when he disposed of that property and purchased his present farm of two hundred and sixty acres on sections 35 and 36, of the same township. Here he has since resided and has been very successful in his business undertakings. He is now living retired, having acquired a competence which enables him to put aside all the more arduous duties of life. In his political views he is a Republican, but has never been an aspirant for office, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business interests, in which he has won a very creditable degree of prosperity. In his family were five children, four of whom are yet living: William, who resides on the home farm, where he was born ; John ; Lewis, proprietor of a meat market in Eaton ; and Ida, wife of Everet Nearon, a farmer of Jackson township.

On the home farm John Parker spent the days of his boyhood and youth and in the common schools of the neighborhood acquired his education. On attaining his majority he began operating a portion of his father's land upon shares, and about 1895 his father retired from the management of the farm and our subject assumed charge. He displays excellent business ability in the conduct of the place, and the well tilled fields, the buildings kept in good repair and improvements in good condition, all indicate the careful supervision of a painstaking and progressive manager.

Mr. Parker is a valued member of Eaton Lodge No. 30, and Preble Encampment, No. 45, I. O. O. F., and has filled all the chairs of the lodge. He also belongs to Waverly Lodge, No. 143, K. P., of Eaton; Dakota Tribe, No. 73, I. O. R. M., of Eaton, of which he is the prophet. In his political affiliations he is a stalwart Republican. He is recognized as one of the progressive young business men of the county, a favorite of his friends and esteemed by all with whom he has come in contact.

Werter Davis Pugh

Werter Davis Pugh is one of the most highly respected citizens of Preble county, and his fellow townsmen gave every evidence of their appreciation of his ability by electing him to public office. He is now identified with the agricultural interests of Washington township, but was born in Gasper township, on the 27th of May, 1846, a representative of one of the old southern families. His grandfather, William Puglr, was a native of Georgia and came to Ohio at a pioneer epoch. He was one of the first settlers of Dixon township and there devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits. Plis son, John Pugh, the father of our subject, was born in Dixon township and in early life learned the blacksmith's trade, following that occupation near the present home of our subject. As a companion and helpmeet on life's journey he chose Miss Mary Moren, daughter of Joseph Moren, who belonged to one of the old families of Ohio. She died in 1847, and Mr. Pugh passed away in 1854. They were both consistent and faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church and took an active part in its work, Mr. Pugh serving as class leader. This worthy couple had three children : Mary E., wife of J. J. Lewis, of Crawfonlsville, Indiana; Joseph, who makes his home in Rushville, Indiana; and Werter Davis, of this review.

forded. Much interested in the civil war and fervently desiring the supremacy of the Union arms, he enlisted in 1864, although only eighteen years of age, and went to the front as a member of the One Hundred and Fifty-sixth Ohio Infantry. After the war he was employed as a clerk in a store in Camden and since 1866 he has been engaged in farming. Since 1870 he has owned his present farm in Washington township, comprising eighty-four acres, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation. He carries on general farming and the well tilled fields give evidence of his careful supervision. Everything about the place is neat and thrifty in appearance and the owner is recognized as one of the progressive and piactical agriculturists of his community.

On the 5th of April, ] 870, Mr. Pugh was married to Miss Josephine A. Dooley, a daughter of Isaac H. Dooley and granddaughter of Silas Dooley, Sr. They had two children, but only one is living, Alfred D., who married Nelle Stubbs and resides at home. The daughter-in-law has splendid artistic talents and has won many prizes for fine paintings. In his political affiliations Mr. Pugh is a Republican, and by his fellow townsmen was called to the office of county commissioner in the fall of 1888 for a tlrreeyears term. So acceptably did he fill the position that he was re-elected and continued the incumbent for six years, discharging his duties with marked fidelity. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity and the Grand Army of the Republic, bas many warm friends among the members of those organizations, and is regarded as a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family of the county. His entire life has been passed here and through more than fifty years' connection with the interests of this community he has ever borne his part in the work that has contributed to the substantial development and improvement of his township, county and state.

Josiah Jones

Josiah Jones is a retired farmer living in New Paris. Years of active connection with agricultural pursuits, in which his well directed efforts brought to him a comfortable competence, well entitles him to the rest which he is now enjoying. He was born in Pennsylvania, November 24, 1833. His father, John Jones, was born in Columbia county, that state, August 22, 1805, a son of Joseph and Catherine Jones. When he had attained man's estate he was joined in wedlock to Patience Newell, who was born in Pennsylvania, March 22, 1806. Three of the brothers - Reuben O., Obadiah E. and Peter - now reside in Minnesota; William is living west of Eaton, in Preble county; George died in Pennsylvania; Mary Jane is the deceased wife of John L. Douglas; and another sister died in early life. Their son, Josiah, was about thirteen years of age when the mother died. He then started out in life for himself and for three years resided on the farm of Peter Mitchell, working in the field and meadow and becoming familiar with all the duties of agricultural life. He afterward went to live with William Hawley, and while there began working by the month as a farm hand, receivingten dollars per month in compensation for his services. Through almost his entire life he has resided in Preble county, having been ! brought to the county when a year old. When he first began work he received nothing but his board and clothing in return for his labor, receiving his first wages when he entered the employ of John Mitchell, with whom he remained for five months. On the expiration of that period he went to the vicinity of Eaton, where he drove a team and attended school for nine days. He continued to work by the month until he was married. Resolute purpose, determined will and unflagging energy are numbered among his chief characteristics and have enabled him to work his way steadily upward.

On the 2 cl of February, i860, Mr. Jones was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Mills, of Jefferson township, Preble county. She was born in that township, August 17, 1831. Her father, George Mills, was a native of Ireland and during his boyhood came to America, taking up his abode in Clinton county, Ohio, where he married Cynthia Strong, a native of that locality. They settled in Preble county and Mrs. Mills died when her daughter was about three years old. She was the only daughter of the family and had but one brother, who died when thirteen years old. Her father afterward married Elizabeth Swerer and they became the parents of five children, four now living: Joseph S. ; Sarah A., the widow of Albert J. Hawley and a resident of New Paris; William, a farmer of Jefferson township; and Martha J., the wife of James Murry, who resides on a farm four miles southeast of New Paris. The other member of the family was John, who passed away at the age of thirteen. Mrs. Jones remained with her father until his death, which occurred when she was twenty-one years of age. She was educated in the common schools of Jefferson township, and by her marriage she became the mother of two children, but both are now deceased, one having died in infancy, while Frank Oscar died at the age of five months.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Jones located in New Paris and about two months later purchased a farm near the old homestead in Jefferson township. There Mr. Jones carried on general farming until August 18, 1879, when he retired to private life and took up his abode in New Paris, where he erected the residence in which he has since made his home. He still owns his farm, comprising one hundred and sixty acres, and the rental therefrom materially increases his income. He certainly deserves great credit for what he has achieved. He began life for himself amid very unfavoring circumstances and has worked his way upward, overcoming many difficulties and obstacles. During the civil war Mr. Jones manifested his loyalty to the government by responding to President Lincoln's call for volunteers. He joined Company B, One Hundred and Fiftysixth Ohio Infantry, and served throughout the term of his enlistment as a private, being engaged in guard duty during the greater part of that period of four months. Socially lie is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to the lodge in New Paris. He joined the organization in 1859 and is the third oldest member in the lodge, only two of the present representatives having been connected with the society when he joined. He has filled all of the chairs, both in the subordinate lodge and encampment, has aided in initiating many into the order and at all times has been faithful to the beneficent principles upon which this society rests. Pie is a stanch Republican in politics having joined its organization and loyally upheld its banner since that time. His life has been well spent. Fidelity to every manly principle and faithfulness to every duty have gained for him the high reward of all with whom he has been associated, and now he is enjoying a lest which he has truly earned and richly deserves.

Henry Brown

One of the leading farmers of Monroe township, Henry Brown, whose home is on section 9, is a representative of one of the oldest and most highly respected families of Preble county. He was born in Monroe township, March 10, 1850, and is the oldest living son of John and Sarah (Banta) Brown, of whom more extended mention is made in connection with the sketch of John Brown on another page of this volume.

Our subject attended the district schools near his boyhood home, and acquired an excellent knowledge of farm work while assisting his father. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-six years of age, when he was married, October 12, 1876, to Miss Eliza McClure, the oldest daughter of David and Martha (Kyle) McClure, of Butler township, Darke countVj Ohio, where she was born, reared and educated. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have three sons : Harley E., born in Monroe township, Preble county, April 26, 1879; Glenn D., born October 30, 1886; and Ray M., born August 16, 1890. All are at home.

After his marriage Mr. Brown located on his father's farm, on section 12, Monroe towmship, where he remained about two years, and then removed to the J. W. Leas farm, w-est of West Manchester, where he was engaged in general farming until 1887. when he bought the farm where he nowr resides, but did not locate thereon until the following year. Here he has sixty-one acres of rich and fertile land, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation. He has also made many improvements upon the place, including the erection of a pleasant, modern, six-room residence, in 1899, at a cost of eight hundred dollars. He is a thorough and skillful farmer and is meeting with well deserved success in his labors. Politically he is identified with the Democratic party and has served as towmship trustee one term. He is a member of the Christian church and is held in high regard by all who know him.

Charles Schreel

One of the most important industries of this section of Ohio is the cultivation, preparation and sale of tobacco, and of this enterprise Mr. Schreel is a worthy representative. He deals in leaf tobacco in Eldorado and is also conducting an extensive and successful grain trade. The salient features in his prosperity are his close application and indefatigable industry, and his life record should serve to encourage others who are forced to depend upon their own exertions for advancement in the field of commerce.

A native of the Buckeye state, Mr. Schreel was born in Montgomery county, on the 1 2th of February, 1842. and is of German lineage. His father, George Schreel, was born in Germany, and when a young man crossed the Atlantic to the new world, locating in Montgomery county, Ohio, wdiere he w7as united in marriage to Miss Rosa (Gentner) a native of Pennsylvania. They located in Montgomery county and there remained until 1857, the year of their removal to Preble county. The father was a cooper by trade, but after coming to Preble county he followed farmingin Twin township, in connection with cooper- ing, and also engaged in the manufacture of sorghum. Both he and his wife died upon the old family homestead, the former at the age of seventy-six years and the latter at the age of seventy-four. In their family were fourteen children, but only five are living at the time of this writing - the summer of 1900.

Mr. Schreel is the second in order of birth. He spent the first fourteen years of his life in the county of his nativitjyand began his education in the public schools there. He then came with his parents to Preble county and remained at home until 1861, when, prompted by a spirit of patriotism, he offered his services to the government, enlisting as a member of Company E, Seventy-first Ohio Infantry. He remained at the front for over three years and participated in the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Atlanta, Lovejoy's Station, Elk River, Franklin, Nashville and many others of lesser importance. He was captured at Clarksville, Tennessee, but was afterward exchanged. At Hartsville, however, he was once more captured, but succeeded in making his escape by running away and hiding in a corn field. He was never seriously wounded and was always found at his post of duty, faithfully defending the old flag and the cause it represented. When his term had expired, he received an honorable discharge at Nashville, Tennessee, in December, 1864, and with an honorable military record returned to his home in Preble county. He then attended school for a short time, after which lie entered upon his business career as a clerk in a hotel at West Alexandria, where he remained for about nine months.

On the expiration of that period Mr. Schreel removed to Darke county, Ohio, where he conducted a saw-mill and also engaged in general merchandising for two years at Poplar Ridge. He then sold out and in January, 1870, came to Preble county, locating in Eldorado, where he established a general mercantile store, which he successfully conducted for twenty-four years. He then disposed of the establishment to his son-in-law, H. H. Minnich, who still conducts the business, while Mr. Schreel devotes his energies to dealing in grain and leaf tobacco. He has here a grain elevator, which he erected in 1896, and which has a capacity of twenty thousand bushels, and is operated by a forty-horse-power engine. He handles all kinds of grain and seeds and his business has reached extensive proportions. He also enjoys' a large trade as a dealer in leaf tobacco and his sales annually bring him a good income.

In 1869 Mr. Schreel was united in marriage to Miss Mary. Oswalt, a native of Greenville, Darke county, Ohio, and a daughter of William and Sarah J. (Willis) Oswalt. Their marriage has been blessed with one daughter and one son : Jennie, now the wife of H. H. Minnich, an enterprising merchant of Eldorado; and Frank U,, who was born in Eldorado, May 27, 1879, and has been associated with his father in business since 1899, being admitted to partnership at the age of twenty years. They also lost one child, Bessie, who died at the age of two months.

Mr. Schreel belongs to Eldorado Lodge, No. 389, K. of P., and is a member of the Universalist church. He gives his support to every measure which he believes will promote the public good along soc'al, material, educational and moral lines, and has long been one of the most active factors in business affairs in the village which he makes his home. His efforts have been crowned

Frank Dalrymple

Upon one of the fine farms in Washington township, Preble county, Frank Dalrymple makes his home, his time and energies being devoted to agricultural pursuits, in which he is meeting with signal success. He was born in Monroe township, on the 14th of April, 1859, and is a son of John and Catherine (Garber) Dalrymple. His father, John Dalrymple, was a native of Jefferson township, and in early life learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed in connection with farming. He married Catherine, daughter of Edward Garber, a native of Ireland. She is still living, at the age of sixty-five years, but Mr. Dalrymple died in May, 1896. They had taken up their abode in Washington township in 1871, and here Mrs. Dalrymple still makes her home. By her marriage she became the mother of seven children, who are st 11 living, namely : Sarah, now Mr. J. J. Kayler, Frank J., of this review; Alice, who is the widow of F. D. Harshman and resides with her mother; Henry, who is living near the old homestead; Libbie, wife of W. S. Johnson, of Washington township; Ora J., at home, and Clarence L., who is living in Washington township.

Mr. Dalrymple, whose name begins this record, was reared on the farm and obtained his education in the common schools, although his advantages were somewhat United, owing to the necessity that he should operate the farm. At the age of twentythree years he began farming on his own account and in 1882 he purchased his present property, consisting of a valuable tract of one hundred and sixty-five acres. He now successfully carries on general farming and his fields are well tilled, while his improvements are modern, being such as are found upon a model farm of the twentieth century. He has served for six years as township trustee and has labored earnestly for its advancement and general welfare.

On Christmas day, 1881, occurred the marriage of Mr. Dalrymple and Miss Laura A. Kayler, daughter of William Kayler, of Washington township. Six children were born to them, of whom four are yet living, namely: Charles A., John A., Earl O. and Mary M. Mrs. Dalrymple is a member of the Lutheran church and an estimable lady, v hose many good qualities have gained for her high regard. Mr. Dalrymple deserves great credit for his success in life. Faithfulness to duty and strict adherence to a fixed purpose will do more to advance a man's interests than wealth or advantageous circumstances. The successful men of the day are they who have planned their own advancement and have accomplished it in spite of many obstacles and with a certainty quite often attained only through their own efforts. Such has been the life record of Mr. Dalrymple, who is now numbered among the leading farmers of Washington township.

Charles Miller

Charles Miller has retired from farming and is enjoying a rest which is the fitting reward of his years of continuous and honorable labor. He was born in Germany, on the 1st of April, 1837, and was a son of Jacob Miller, a stone mason and contractor, whose birth also occurred in that country. Our subject spent the first seventeen years of his life in the land of his nativity, pursuing his education in the public schools. Thinking to better his financial conditions, he resolved to come to America, and made his way as far as the coast. There his funds became exhausted, and, not having money enough to pay his passage, he was forced to abandon the trip until 1854, when he crossed the Atlantic, landing in New York. He at once made his way westward and became a resident of Lanier township, Preble county, where he worked by the month as a farm hand until he was twenty-three years of age. His industry and enterprise in that time brought to him capital sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm. He became the owner of a tract of land in Mercer county, which he operated for ten years, when he sold out and bought a farm in Washington township, Preble county. Here he owns one hundred and eighty-two acres of rich and arable land, which is now rented to his son, and through a long period he was actively connected with its development and improvement and was regarded as one of the leading farmers of his neighborhood. His methods were progressive and practical and his success was founded upon the reliable quality of unflagging industry.

O11 the 14th of February, 1861, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Anna, daughter of Frederick Stancy, of Germany. 1 hey became the parents of six children : Mary, wife of Joseph C. Stover, who is living near Eaton; William E., a resident of Kansas City, Missouri; Hattie, wife of C. M. Rader, a lawyer of Walla Walla, Washington, who is now filling the position of state's attorney; Frank, who married Lulu Wilkin, and is a farmer of Washington township; Lizzie, wife of Clarence Mc- Whinney, of Preble county; and John E., who married Maggie Gillen and is operating his father's farm. Both Mr. and Mrs. Miller became members of the Eaton Christian church and were very active workers therein, but Mrs. Miller's labors were ended in death on the 14th of June, 1897, when she was called to the home beyond. She was a faithful wife, a loving mother and a considerate friend, greatly beloved by all who knew her. Mr. Miller is an influential and prominent member of the church, is serving as trustee and as a member of the official hoard, and was a member of the building committee at the time of the erection of the new church. From the little German home across the sea he made his way to the nqw world and entered upon a career which seems most marvelous, yet it is not the outcome of propitious circumstances, but is the honest reward of labor, good management, ambition and energy - without which no man can win prosperity.

John H. Bennett

John H. Bennett is now living retired on his farm in Somers township but for many years carried agricultural pursuits there. He was born in Maysville, Kentucky, November 27, 1815. His grandparents were William and Sarah Bennett and they had a family of ten children, eight sons and two daughters, all of whom reached mature years and married. Two members of the family died in Louisville, Kentucky, one in San Francisco and the others in Oxford. The grandmother died when well advanced in years, but the grandfather was again married and had a daughter by the second union. John Bennett, the father of our subject, was born in 1786, and was probably a native of Virginia. He removed to Kentucky, where lie married Elizabeth Hopper, who was born in that state in 1789. They became the parents of eleven children, and six sons and four daughters reached mature years. The only surviving one is John H. Bennett, who is the fourth in order of birth. With one exception all of the children were married and reared families of their own and all became residents of this section of Ohio. 1 he father died June 14, 1866, and his wife passed away April 7, 1877.

John H. Bennett was reared in Preble county from the age of three years and acquired a fair common-school education. All was wild and unimproved in this section of the country during his boyhood, much of the land being still in its primitive condition. Large tracts of forest land were uncleared and the homes of the pioneers were widely scattered. He assisted in the work of his father's farm until his marriage, which occurred on the 15th of August, 1840, Miss Eliza M. Macy becoming his wife. She was a daughter of Stephen and Mary (Gardner) Macy. The children born of this union were five in number, four sons and a daughter. Telemicus, the eldest, who was educated in Louisville, Kentucky, and became a practicing physician of the regular school in Broad Ripple, Indiana, has a wife and throe children, two daughters and a son. David F., who conducted a hotel in Cincinnati, died March 21, 1896, leaving two sons, who are loc'ated in Chicago. Mary E. is the widow of James M. Barnet and has two sons : E. O. Barnet, a well educated man who has filled many prominent positions, and who is now married and has two children; and Frank J. Hamrich, who is married and has one son. Rush S. is proprietor of the Arlington House of Camden and has one daughter and two sons. William G. studied medicine, hut is now a commercial traveler with headquarters at Indianapolis, Indiana.

In his political views Mr. Bennett is a Republican, served as assessor for one year and has been road commissioner since 1851, in which year the Somers and Gratis free pike was built by him. Throughout his business career he has carried on farming and still owns eighty-six acres of land, but is practically living retired at the present time. He also worked at the cooper's trade during the winter seasons for about ten years and through this dual employment acquired a comfortable competence which now enables him to rest from the more arduous duties of life. He and his most estimable wife have been members of the Methodist church for over half a century and he has served as steward for many years. He has sat under forty-two different pastors in one church, covering a period of seventy years and has always been at his place in the house of worship until very recently. He yet attends in good weather and throughout his entire life has exemplified his earnest Christian belief.

For more than a quarter of a century Mr. Bennett has witnessed the growth and development of the county. His memory goes hack to the days when he pursued his education in a log school house with paper windows and puncheon seats. There were no wagon-roads at the time of the arrival of the family in Preble county and they found their way through the forest by the aid of blazed trees. Their nearest neighbor was eight miles away and Camden contained only three log houses. They took their grist on horseback to Oxford, a distance of twelve miles, where there was a treadmill operated by four oxen. There was no postoffice near here until the one at Camden was established, and for some time afterward the mail was received only twice a week, it being carried on horseback. Not only has Mr. Bennett been an eye witness of the wonderful growth which has occurred in the county, but at all times has borne his part in the work of progress and improvement, withholding his support from no measure which he believed would prove of public good. He is indeed an honored pioneer and one whose close identification with the interests of this section of the state well entitles him to representation in this volume.

Long actively and honorably connected with the agricultural interests of Preble county, John McWhinney, now deceased, was a valued representative of his community and his loss was deeply mourned. He was one of the native sons of Jackson township, Preble county, born August 23, 1819, his parents being John and Mary (Dugan) Mc- Whinney, who emigrated from Knox county, Tennessee, to Preble county in 1815 or 1816, settling in Jackson township, on the Richmond and Eaton pike road, near New Westville. The father, John McWhinney, was a well-known farmer and stock buyer, being one of the representative men of the county in the early days. He was twice married. After the death of his first wife, who was the mother of the subject of this review, he married a widow named Alexander, and they soon afterward removed to

John McWhinney was principally reared and educated in Wayne county, Indiana, having been a mere child when his parents removed to that locality. He first wedded Miss Cynthia Adams and they became the parents of four children, all of whom are now deceased, and after the death of his first wife he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah J. Moore, who' still survives him. After his marriage he devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, locating on a farm owned by his father, and after the death of the latter he purchased the old homestead, this being some years later. It continued to be his home until 1856, when he disposed of the property and came to the present homestead farm of two hundred and thirteen acres, in Jackson township, where he lived up to the hour of his death, which occurred June 2, 1895. He was a successful farmer and was a man who ordered his life upon the most lofty plane of integrity and honor. His sterling character gamed to him the confidence and esteem of all with whom he came in contact and his life was a benediction to those near and dear to him. He was an ardent supporter of the Republican party, and in religious belief he was reared a Presbyterian, uniting with this denomination some years prior to lrs demise. While in no sense a seeker for public preferment, he was called upon to serve in various township offices, having been a justice of the peace and township trustee.

He married Sarah J. Moore, who was born in Adams county, Ohio, April 16, 1834, being the daughter of Milton and Jane (Paul) Moore. Her mother died when the daughter was about six years of age. and ten years later her father died and she came to Preble county to make her home with an aunt, on the maternal side of the family, and here was eventually consummated her marriage to John McWhinney. She is a devoted member of the old-school Presbyterian church. John and Sarah J. McWhinney became the parents of five children, of whom the only survivors are Edward F. and John L., the former an enterprising farmer of Jackson township.

The latter is a representative of one of the old and honored pioneer families of Preble county, and here he is personally recognized as one of the progressive and influential farmers, his fine homestead beinglocated on section 7, Jackson township, where he is successfully carrying on operations according to modern scientific plans. John L. McWhinney grew to maturity on the old homestead, being accorded the advantages of the common schools. As he approached manhood, being the only son at home, the responsibilities of the farm management early devolved upon him; his father being near the meridian of h:s life and leaning more and more on the shoulders of the younger man, who was ever glad to show his filial solicitude and to do all in Iris power to further the temporal interests of his parents. Thus he had the practical management of the farm when but eighteen years of age, and after the death of his father he and his mother acquired the homestead, -where they have ever since made their home, Mr. McWhinney having been deservedly successful in his efforts, in which he has been fortified by experience and strong intellectual forces.

O11 the 30th of November, 1899, Mr. McWhinney was united in marriage to Miss Abbie Smith, who was born in Jackson township, the daughter of Elisha and Man-

Smith, well known citizens of the county. Pol it cal ly Mr. McWhinney gives his support to the Republican party ; religiously he is a member of tbe Society of Friends, and fraternally is identified with Harmony Lodge, No. 396, Knights of Pythias. He is known as one of the progressive youngfarmers of the county and enjoys a distinct popularity in social circles here.

Aaron Brubaker

Aaron Brubaker is now living retired upon his farm adjoining the corporation limits of the town of Winchester. His rest is well deserved, being the fitting reward of many years of active toil and close and honorable connection with agricultural interests of Preble county. He was born in Lanier township, October 23, 1854. His father, Jacob Brubaker, was a native of Gratis township, born a mile and a half west of Winchester, on the 18th of September, 1827. The grandfather, John Brubaker, like many of the well known and honored pioneer settlers of the state, was a native of Rockingham county, Virginia. His birth occurred there in 1877 and he died in Preble county in 1846. Tbe mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Flory and was a daughter of Marylis Flory. She became the wife of Jacob Brubaker in 1846 and they located on a farm in Lanier township in 1847 or 1848. There the father made his first purchase of land, becomingowner of eighty acres. When he had cleared off all the indebtedness on that property he purchased one hundred acres additional and added to that from time to time until his landed possessions aggregated three hundred and forty acres. He was a very industrious and hardworking man and car- ried on general farming, also making a specialty of tire raising of hogs. He Lkewise kept cattle and sheep, feeding all of his farm products to his stock, except his wheat, of which he raised from eight to fifteen hundred bushels annually. Thus his income was materially augmented, for wheat in those days brought from a dollar to a dollar and a half per bushel.

Mr. Brubaker was a Republican in his political affiliations and took an active interest in educational affairs. In his family were fourteen children, of whom six sons and seven daughters reached mature years. All were married and, with one exception, all had families, so that there were twentyfive grandsons and twelve granddaughters. One of the children, Sarah Ann, died at the age of three years, and Minerva, who became the wife of John Ozias, died at the age of twenty-eight, leaving a son and a daughter. The first born of this family was Joseph Brubaker, whose birth occurred in September, 1848. He has been twice married and has four living children. Mrs. Marylis Rinehart, a widow, is the second in order of birth. Henry C. is engaged in farming near the old homestead. Mary Jane is the wife of Daniel Eikenberry. Aaron is the fifth in order of birth and Eli is the sixth of the family. Christiana is the wife of John Brubaker. Nancy married John Wagner. Amos and Marcus were ninth and tenth. Lydia is the wife of Henry Denlinger and Cora is the wife of William Denlinger. The living members of this family are all residents of Preble county. The father died August 15, 1894, but his widow is still living on the old homestead, where she is still enjoying life at the age of seventy years.

good common-school privileges and Aaron Brubaker remained under the parental roof throughout the period of his minority. He worked in the fields through the summer months and in the winter season pursued his studies. He had small capital when he started out in life on his own account and for some time he engaged in threshing. His first purchase of land comprised eleven acres in Lanier township. For seven years he was engaged in the 'manufacture of drain tiling and found it a very profitable source of income, his business in that way steadily increasing. In the fall of 1882 he came to his present home in Gratis township, purchasing one hundred and fifty-four acres of land, to which he has since added a tract of twenty-two acres. He has a large and commodious frame residence, which he erected in 1892. He has also built excellent tobacco sheds and other outbuildings and successfully carried on general farming until 1898, since which time his land has been operated by tenants, one of whom is his foster son, Joseph Jordan, who lived with him between the ages of fourteen and twenty-five years. At the latter date he was married and is now operating the greater part of the Brubaker farm. As an agriculturist our subject won prosperity, his well directed labors enabling him to secure good returns from his crops and stock.

O11 the 23d of July, 1878, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brubaker and Miss Clara Eikenberry, who was born in Lanic-r township and is a daughter of Christian and Sarah (Young) Eikenberry, both of whom are yet living. The father was a carpenter and farmer. In his family were two daughters, Mrs. Brubaker and Laura, the latter now the wife of William Williams. Mr. and Mrs. Brubaker have one child, a daughter, at home. Serious illness has caused her to suffer greatly from deafness, but she is very quick to read the lips and looks of those she knows and has little or no difficulty in understanding her parents. She is very studious and rapid with her pen, and is a young lady of culture and refinement. Mr. Brubaker is a member of and local minister in the German Baptist church, and in politics is a Republican. He is one of forty-four farmers belonging to the Winchester Telephone Association and became one of its charter members. This club has telephone connection with West Elkton, Camden, Eaton, West Alexandria, Farmersville and Ingomar, all direct, and can reach points much further through other lines. His enterprising spirit and his determined purpose have been salient features in his success and have enabled him to work his way steadily upward, overcoming all difficulties and obstacles in his path until he now occupies a leading position among the representative citizens of the community.

John Jacob Kayler

Labor forms the foundation of all prosperity, and it is to his enterprising and well directed efforts that our subject owes his position as a leading and representative farmer of Washington township, Preble county. He was born November 17, 1849, on the farm which is still his home and which has been in possession of the family for eighty-five years. His father, William Kayler, was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, in 1808, a son of John and Catherine (Haynes) Kayler. They, too, were natives of Rockingham county, the former born in 1776 and the latter in 1782. With their family they emigrated westward, taking up their abode in Ohio in 1814. John Kayler served in the war of 1812. There was quite a romantic chapter in his life record, occasioned by his elopement. The lady whom he loved was the daughter of wealthy parents, her father owning a large plantation and many slaves. On account of the poverty of Mr. Kayler the parents opposed him, and in consequence an elopement was the result. After their marriage they remained in Virginia for ten years, and then on account of the unfriendly spirit of her parents they decided to come west. Arriving in Ohio they cast in their lot with the pioneer settlers of Preble county and here spent their remaining days, the grandfather of our subject passing away in 1856, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1862.

William Kayler was only six years of age when he accompanied his parents to the Buckeye state. He experienced the usual hardships and trials which fall to the lot of pioneer settlers and was reared to the work of the farm, following the plow almost as soon as old enough to reach the handles. In 1837 he wedded Rebecca Delawater, who came to Ohio from Maryland in 1822. His death occurred in 1876 and his wife, surviving for some years, passed away in 1890. In his business affairs he was quite successful and was accounted one of the leading landowners of this locality, having seven hundred and forty acres of land in addition to considerable money. He was an active and influential member of the Lutheran church, in which he long held office, and to the support of the church he contributed very liberally. In politics he was a zealous Democrat. In his family were eleven children, eight of whom are yet living, namely : Josiah, a

Preble county; Malinda, wife of F. C. Harshman, of Eaton; John J., of this review; Eliza, wife of J. B. Everding, of Twin township; Sarah, wife of Henry Elder; Laura, wife of F. J. Dalrymple, and Olive E., wife of George Elder, of West Alexandria.

Mr. Kayler, whose name introduces this review, pursued his education in the country schools and spent his boyhood upon the old family homestead. In 1875 he purchased a farm in the same locality, and when his father died he bought the interests of the other heirs in the home property which he has since owned and operated. He has here three hundred and eighty-eight acres of valuable land and is successfully carrying on general farming. He also raises hogs on an extensive scale, and that branch of his business brings to him a good income. All his trade transactions are carried on with the strictest regard for the ethics of commercial life, and in business circles his reputation for honesty is above question.

Mr. Kayler belongs to Bolivar Lodge, A. F. & A. M., of Eaton, and has filled all of the offices in the Knights of Pythias fraternity. He is also a Forester, is trustee of that lodge and has been a representative to the grand lodge. A Democrat in his political affiliations, he was a candidate for sheriff in 1892, but was defeated. He has served on the school board, and for fourteen years was a member of the agricultural board, serving for three years as its vicepresident.

On the 28th of October, 1875, occurred the marriage of Mr. Kayler and Miss Sarah Dalrymple, a daughter of John Dalrymple, of Preble county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kayler have been born six children, five of whom are yet living, namely: Benjamin, who since early life has served as a Sundayschool teacher and is now superintendent of the Sunday-school ; Estie, Charles and Bertha, all intelligent and interesting children. The parents are very active and zealous members of the Christian church of Eaton and take a leading part in its work, doing all in their power to promote its growth and success. Mr. Kayler contributes liberally to its support and withholds his co-operation from no* public movement or measure which he believes will prove of benefit to the community.

Absalom Holtry

This well-known retired farmer of Lewisburg, was born January 8, 1834, in Montgomery county, Ohio, two miles east of Germantown, and comes of good old Revolutionary stock, some of his paternal ancestors having aided the colonies in their struggle for independence. His father, Peter Holtry, was a native of Pennsylvania, but was reared in Maryland, about twentyfive miles from Baltimore, having removed to the latter state with his father, George Holtry, also a native of Pennsylvania, and a farmer by occupation. In 1825 the latter took his family to Montgomery county, Ohio, where ' he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, for fourteen hundred dollars, anti resided thereon for fifteen years. There Peter Holtry married Susan Showers, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Abram Showers, who was born in Germany and came to this country during the Revolutionary war, in which he took an active part. After peace was restored he located in Kentucky, where he taught a German school until his death, which occurred when Mrs. Holtry was only five years old. He had married in Pennsylvania prior to going to Kentucky. After her father's death Mrs. Holtry was taken to the home of an uncle, but for five years before her marriage she earned her own living. On coming to this state she settled in Salem, Montgomery county, but was married to Mr. Holtry in Germantown. The following three years were passed in that county, at the end of which time the father of our subject purchased eighty acres of school land in Twin township, Preble county, where they made their home until 1859 and then he died at the age of seventy-three years. He was a consistent member of the Reformed church and in politics was first a Whig and later a Democrat. He was a very prominent and influential man in his community and was called upon to fill nearly all of the township offices, including those of clerk and justice of the peace. He engaged in teaching school at one time and always wrote with a goose quill. His estimable wife died at the age of sixty-three years. They had three children, namely : Sarah, who is living in Preble county, at the age of seventy years; Absalom, our subject, and George, who died at about the age of twentythree years.

Absalom Holtry was only three years old when the family removed to Twin township. Preble county, where he grew to manhood, attending the d' strict schools and assisting his father in the labors of the farm. On the 4th of December, 1862, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Beam, who was born in German township, Montgomery county, June 18, 1839, her parents, John W. and Polly (Ozias) Beam, being among the pioneers of this locality. Her mother was born and reared in Twin township and belonged to one of its oldest families. Both parents were of German descent. Our subject and his wife have one daughter, Adda V., now the wife of William Schaffer, a dealer in groceries and queensware at St. Mary's, Auglaize county, Ohio, by whom she has two sons, Carl and Ralph.

For sixteen years after his marriage Mr. Holtry remained on his father's farm, successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising, and as he prospered in his undertakings he also loaned money. After the death of his father he purchased the interests of the other heirs in the old homestead and continued to reside thereon until his removal to Lewisburg in 1887. He still owns the farm and also another in Harrison township, and has three houses in Lewisburg, one of which he occupies, while he rents the other two. He continues to loan money. A man of keen perception and unbounded enterprise, his success in life is due to his own efforts and he deserves prominent mention among the leading and representative business men of the county. As a Democrat he was elected one of the trustees of Twin township, and was a member of the board for several years, his services giving the utmost satisfaction to his constituents.