Wayne Township (part 14 of 16)

Mr. Korner is of German extraction, born in York township, Belmont County, in 1853. He is a son of Henry and Doris (Dempewolf) Korner, the latter of whom was born in Germany and died in Ohio, in 1895, aged 82 years. Henry Korner, the father, was born in 1810, in Germany and about the time of his majority came to the United States, finding his first employment in the lumber regions of the State of New York. His adopted country was at that time having some differences with Erance, and the young man enlisted in the Lhii ted States Navy, as a member of a hand, and on the historic old ship "Constitution" cruised through the Mediterranean and stopped at many European ports during his four years of service. After all this travel, Mr.- Korner selected Belmont County, Ohio, as his choice of residence, and at Steinersville, York township, he engaged in a mercantile business for several years. He then purchased the farm near the town, now owned by our subject, and engaged in farming until 1881, when his death occurred. Mr. Korner married Doris Dempewolf and they reared a family of seven children, as follows ; Theodore, who is a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia ; Gustavus, who resides at Bradford, Pennsylvania; Louisa (Mrs. Aggers), who resides in Seattle, Washington; Lewis, who is a resident of Prairie Depot, Ohio ; George A. ; Albert, a resident of Columbus, who was formerly a teacher in Belmont County ; and Dr. Alexander, who practices his profession at Woodsfield, Ohio.

Mr. Korner has engaged in extensive farming operations and has been also interested in modern dairying. In addition he has given much attention to the optioning of coal lands, both in Belmont and Monroe counties, and is well known through the locality as a keen, successful man of business enterprise. In the fall of 1901 he built his handsome residence in Steinersville, which, in modern equipment, comfort and convenience, is not equaled in York township. He has introduced a complete system of waterworks, finding his supply in a spring on an adjacent hill, this being the first private plant in the township.

On Eebruary 22, 1888, Mr. Korner was united in marriage with Clara Stackhouse, a daughter of Joshua Stackhouse, an old pioneer of the county, and to this union have been born two children, - Doris, aged 12 years, and AAHlclo, aged 10 years, both of whom are bright pupils at school. Mr. Korner has always been identified with the Democratic party, although no seeker for office, his varied business interests fully occupying the time not filled with personal and social activities. He is very well known in his locality and enjoys a full measure of the esteem of his fellow citizens, and is reckoned among the solid men of old York township.

M. C. STONEBRAKER, one of the prominent farmers and influential citizens of Mead township, Belmont County, was horn in March, 1857, on the farm where he new resides, the only son of Ephraim and Martha E. (Granfell) Stonebraker, who were married on December 30, 1852, at Jacobshurg, Belmont County.

Ephraim Stonebraker was the youngest of a family of 15 children born to his father, Samuel Stonebraker, who was twice married. Ephraim died on the farm where his widow resides with her son and family, near Key station, in March, 1865, aged 35 years. The mother of our subject was born August 12, 1833, a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Barnett) Granfell, the former being of English descent and the latter of Scotch-Irish. William Granfell was born September 27, 1791, and died in 1837; his wife, born June 4, 1805, died April 13, 1866. Their children were: INTartha E., James, Thomas, Miles, Preston, Mary, who died young, and Margaret, who married James Gladdin of Smith township and is also deceased. Mrs. Stonebraker is a niece of one who was so well known and highly regarded in this section that he was universally called "Uncle" Tommy Miles, a very early pioneer. He never married, and at death willed his section of land to relatives.

Our subject was educated in the district schools and has spent his whole life on his farm, which contains 80 acres of well tilled and productive land, where he has successfully carried on general farming and stock raising. Mr. Stonebraker erected here a very comfortable house in 1884 and replaced the old one, which serves well as a stable, although under its old roof three generations of the family found shelter for manv years. Mr. Stonebraker has leased the old farm and is preparing to remove to Key in order to give his children better educational advantages and to retire from enforced activity.

In 1878 Mr. Stonebraker was married to Mary Phillips, who was born in Smith township, in July, 1859, a daughter of James W. and Annie (White) Phillips, the latter of whom has been deceased for some 15 years. The Phillips family was a very early one in Smith township and lived near Jacobsburg station. The two children of Mr. and Mrs. Stonebraker are Earl B., born December 8, 1882, who is a graduate of the Wheeling Business College and is nOw a solicitor for the same; and Etta M., who was born May 3, 1891.

In political sentiment Mr. Stonebraker has been a lifelong Democrat, and he has most acceptably served for six years as township trustee and is serving his third term as justice of the peace, his excellent judgment and high standing in the community making him a very popular official. In religious views the family is in accord with the Presbyterian Church and attend services at the Concord Church.

GEORGE FLOTO, who conducts a meat market on 7th street, Martin's Ferry, and who is one of the excellent citizens of the place, was born in this city on May 5, 1866, a son of Henry and Margaret (Proler) Floto.

Henry Floto, the father, was born in Germany and came to America prior to his marriage. leaving his parents and several of his family in the old country. Several brothers live in Steubenville, Ohio. Mr. Floto followed the trade of baker through his active life, and is a well-known and respected citizen of the county, of ample means and is identified with a number of the financial enterprises of Martin's Ferry. He has been president of the board of directors of the old Buckeye glass house, and the People's Savings Bank and of other institutions. His life has been passsed here until within the last few years. He retired from active business although he is but 66 years of age, his wife being some six years his junior. Both are members of the German Lutheran Church. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. FlotO were the following: George, of this sketch; Ada, who assists her brothers in the bakery; Frank, who conducts the bakery bnsines in Martin's Ferry; Flenry, who is engaged in the meat business with his brother George; Christopher, who is engaged in the bakery; Emma and William, who reside at home. Two children are deceased.

George Floto acquired his education in the schools of Martin's Ferry and assisted his father in the baking business until his health failed him. Since changing his line of work he has regained his health and now has a very prosperous trade. He has been in the meat business for several years and thoroughly understands the wants of the public. He is a stockholder in the Germania Half-Dollar Savings Bank of Wheeling, and his industry and provident husbanding of his means augur a life of ease in his old age.

On April 12, 1894, Mr. Floto was married to Elizabeth H. Seabright, daughter of Charles and Louisa Seabright, and two children have been born to this union, a bright little son and daughter, Philip H. and Ruth L. Our subject and wife belong to the German Lutheran Church. He is fraternally connected with the Knights of Pythias and also belongs to the Lhiiform Rank. He takes only a passing interest in politics, but is fully awake to all that will benefit or advance the interests of his community, in this Avay proving himself a most useful citizen.

GEORGE LAWRENCE RAMSEY, M. D., is a leading physician of York township, Belmont County, Ohio, and a prominent representative of one of the old and honored pioneer families of the county. Dr. Ramsey was born in Mead township in 1872, being the eldest of the nine children born to his parents, AVilliam and Amanda (Helpbringer) Ramsey, most highly esteemed residents of Mead township.

The early ancestral history of the Ramsey family reaches back to Ireland, in which land the great-grandfather of Dr. Ramsey was born in 1772. In 1790 he immigrated to Washington County, Pennsylvania, where he married a Miss Falconer and in 1818 removed to Belmont County, Ohio, as one of the first settlers of Smith township. He left a family of six sons and one daughter, namely : David, John, Samuel, Abram, Allen, Aaron F., and Nellie.

Allen Ramsey, the grandfather of Dr. Ramsey, was born May 28, 1811, and married hlary Thornborough, in Washington township, Belmont County. The Thornborough family originated in England, the grandmother being a daughter of William and Matilda (Lazenb}^) Thornborough, who came to America and settled in Belmont County about 1818 and followed an agricultural life in Washington township until death. IMrs. Allen Ramsey died December i, 1902, at the age of 86 years.

Dr. Ramsey obtained his primary education in the common schools in the vicinity of his birthplace, and as early as the age of 14 years decided upon his life work, thereafter directing his study and reading to that end. When prepared for college, he entered the Ohio Medical Lhiiversity at Columbus, Ohio, graduating with much credit, on April 5, 1898. His first location for practice was at Batesville, Noble County, where he remained until the spring of 1901, when he settled at Powhatan Point, purchasing there his fine property on the turnpike, and owns one of the handsomest homes in this select neighhorhood.

On hlarch 20, 1900, Dr. Ramsey was married to Luella V. Wilson, a young lady of Charleston, Y'^est Virginia, and one child, Newell Wilson, was born to this union, in this county. Dr. Ramsey's fraternal connection is with the Knights of Pythias, of Batesville, and he also belongs to the Belmont County Medical Association. Like all his family, the Doctor is a strong supporter of the principles of the Republican party, and continues attached to the Methodist Clnirch, in which he was carefully reared hy an excellent mother. Dr. Ramsey sustains the most cordial relations with his brother practitioners, and his ability and skill have been very generally recognized by the community.

WILLIAM DUVALL, who since 1851 has been a resident of Belmont County and is well known as the postmaster and popular general merchant of Businessburg, in Mead township, is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Jefferson County, December 4, 1820.

The parents of Mr. Duvall were Dennis and Mahala (Fowler) Duvall, the former of whom died in Jefferson County and the latter in Mead township at the age of 77 years. Our subject is the only member of his parents' family surviving, and although the winters of 82 years have somewhat whitened his locks, his physical and mental activity place his years not l)eyond 50. With the vigor of middle life he manages the details of a large business and makes in person his purchases in Wheeling when necessary to supplement his stock. His capacity is such that he may justly look forward to many more years of activity and usefulness.

Mr. Duvall was reared in Jefferson County, where he remained until 1851, coming then to Pipe Creek, Belmont County, where he was engaged for some years in both farming and merchandising. In the stormy days of the Civil War his loyalty induced him to so arrange his business that he could enlist in the service of his country, entering in 1862 Company F, 52nd Ohio Vol. Inf., in which service he continued two years and eleven months, or until the close of the war. His regiment was inchided in the 14th Army Corps, 2nd Brigade and 32nd Division, under grim old General Sherman, with whom he marched to the sea. Although not seriously wounded, Mr. Duvall had some very close calls, one of these being at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain. Every day of his service but one, Mr. Duvall carried his load of equipment.

After his return from the army our subject opened up a general store at Businessburg, and this has mainly claimed his attention ever since. This store building was erected by Mr. Warren, who was one of th'e early pioneers of this locality. For the past 25 years the post office has been under Mr. Duvall's charge, its management giving general satisfaction. In politics our subject is a stanch Republican and is proud of his State and his party. In his earlier years he was in sympathy with the Know-Nothing party. He has not been a seeker for office; served during a short period as justice of the peace, and declined the position of township assessor even when elected. Mr. Duvall never married, but in the community in which he has lived so long is surrounded by warm personal friends. He attends the Bethel Presbyterian Church.

JOHN WORKMAN, a prominent and substantial farmer of Smith township, Belmont County, is a worthy representative of an old family of the county. He was born in Smith township in 1827, being a son of William and Isabel (Eckels) Workman, the former of whom was born in Maryland, and died in Ohio in 1865, aged 78 years. The latter was born in Belmont County, Ohio, and died here in 1885, at the age of 80 years.

William Workman accompanied his parents to Belmont County from Maryland, at an early day, and through a long life became well known in business and politics and accumulated an ample fortune. In his earlier years he engaged in milling and in wagon-making, but the latter part of his life was passed in farming. Mr. Workman bore his part in the War of 1812 and for many years was a justice of the peace. In politics a Democrat, he was the choice of his party for county commissioner at various times and creditably served for five terms as a member of the Ohio Legislature. He was one of the substantial men of his county and left a fine farm of 240 acres of valuable land to his family. A family of 1 1 children was born to William and Isabel Workman, namely: Charles C., Mary A., William, Robert E., Sarah J., Amos, John, David, Isabel, Robinson, and Keziah.

John Workman, the seventh member of the above family, was reared like other boys of his day, with much work and a little schooling, and grew to manhood quite capable of managing a farm of his own and of taking his place as one of the responsible citizens of his county. In 1849 married Elizabeth J. Lash, who was a daughter of Isaac and Ann (Ogleby) Lash, and was born in Belmont County in 1828. A family of 1 1 children was born to this union, as follows : William L., one deceased, Harvey C., Joseph, one deceased, Sarah J., John W., Mary A., Ida and two deceased.

Mr. Workman owns a fine farm of 103 acres, located one mile west of the hamlet of Whitney, and successfully carries on general farming and stock raising to a moderate extent. A man of reliability and integrity, he has taken a leading place in township movements, and has served most capably as justice of the peace, township trustee and as school director. In politics he is identified with the Democratic party. The religious membership of the family is with the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN YOUNG, a well-known and successful fruit grower of Pease township, Belmont County, is a native of Germany, a country which has given Ohio many of her most valued citizens.

Mr. Young was born in 1831, and he is a son of Jacob Young, who was also a native of Bavaria, Germany, and who brought his famil}^ to the United States in the fall of 1836. The voyage was made in a sailing vessel and 40 days were passed on the Atlantic Ocean. The family located at Wheeling where Jacob Young found work at his trade of blacksmith, and also in the coal mines, until the breaking out of the Civil War, when he became a member of the 77th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and participated in the siege of Vicksburg. He died several years ago, in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. The mother of our subject was a daughter of Erederick Kerner, who died at the home of Mr. Young, at the age of 89 years. Mrs. Jacob Young died June 13, 1885, at the age of 80 years.

John Young was the only child born to his parents and was given excellent educational advantages in the German schools, but had little opportunity to learn the English language. While still a lad, he earned 12^/3 cents a day, hoeing corn for Governor Sharnick, who resided south of AVheeling on Carval's Run. About 1849 entered the Top Mill at Wheeling and was one of the workmen there employed in making the wire which was used to build the old suspension bridge across the Ohio, from Wheeling to the Island. At the opening of the La Belle Mill he secured work there and remained until 1859. removing then to Pease township, Behuont County. In 1863 he was able to purchase his present home farm of about 60 acres, and since that time has made many substantial improvements on the place, erecting fine buildings and turning his land into a fruit farm. Here Mr. Young can show some of the finest grapes grown in this part of the State, his vineyard covering two and one-half acres, afid its productiveness enabling him to sell more than 10 tons of fruit a season. Other specialties are strawberries and raspberries. His careful culture and thorough knowledge of varieties and soils make these fruits very profitable.

On Eebruary 22, 1852, hlr. Young married Margaret IMeal, a native of Strasburg. Alsace, Prance, who died some years since, leaving the following children : Lizzie, who is the wife of Erederick Adolphs, resides on the Cadiz Pike; Albert, who married Margaret, a daughter of William Neelan, also resides along this pike, and is employed in the Aetna-Standard Mill ; Lena, who married Charles Adolphs, resides at Bridgeport : and Catherine, who married George IMeister, who is the leader of the famous Meister Band, of Bridgeport. The sec-

Mr. Young has been a faithful and enthusiastic Republican since he cast his first vote for John C. Fremont, in Ritchie township, Wheeling, at a time when it was a dangerous policy to speak in favor of the principles of the Republican party. Mr. Young was one of the eight men who were brave enough to vote as they deemed right. Tde is a man of admirable judgment and strict integrity, and has capably filled the position of supervisor of his township for about 10 years. Blis religious membership is in the German Lutheran Church. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows, of Bridgeport.

MILES HART, one of the well-known and popular citizens of Smith township, who for 28 consecutive years followed teaching in Belmont County, comes of an old agricultural family, which originated in the person of his gramlfather. Miles Llart, in Greene County, Pennsylvania.

Our sul.iject was born January 24, 1844, in Smith township, and is a son of Silas and Sarah (Twinem) Hart, the latter of whom was born in 1816, in the State of New York, a daughter of Leonard and Mary Twinem, who came from Ireland to Belmont County about 1817. Mrs. Hart died at the old home just north of Centreville. Silas Hart was born in 1817, in Smith township, and was a son of Miles Llart, rvho came to Belmont County in 1815 and stopped first in Mead township at Billie's Bottom and then settled permanently on section 28, in Smith township, where he died in 1852. Silas Hart died in the spring of 1894, at the home of his son Miles. Our subject is one of a family of seven children born to his parents, three of whom besides himself survive, namely: Catherine (Mrs. Barrett), of Texas; Leonard, a resident of Goshen township; and S. W., of

Miles Hart was reared on the farm and attended the country schools and also went to a select school. In 1866 he began to teach the winter sessions of school in his neighborhood, learning in the meantime the carpenter trade and spending the summer vacations on the farm, continuing thus until 1894, when he gave up the profession to devote himself entirely to the operation of his farm. Mr. Hart purchased this valuable and attractive home in 1872 and has 82 J4 acres of land most admirably fitted for farming and stock raising.

In 1878 Mr. Hart was married to Mary C. Stonebraker, who was born in Smith township in i860, being one of five children born to Jeremiah and Mary (Glover) Stonebraker, the three survivors being: James W., of wife of D. M. Scatterday. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hart, one of whom died in infancy. Of the two young ladies, Sarah is the successful teacher of a school near Martin's Eerry, and Blanche is still a student.

Mr. Hart has taken an active interest in politics in his locality, voting the Republican ticket, and has been called upon to serve in many offices, his intelligence, education and excellent judgment making him eminently desirable as a township or county official. By appointment he served one year as township clerk and was elected and re-elected, serving with the greatest efficiency. In the latter "seventies" he served for two years as assessor. The 'religious connection of the family is with the Concord Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Hart is the clerk of the congregation.

Mr. Hart's long associations as an educator make him a very well-known resident of Smith township, and few citizens are so highly regarded by all classes of people. As a teacher he was brought into such close relations that his interest in many of his neigh- bors began in childhood and a mutual regard has ever since been maintained. He has a wide circle of attached friends. He was elected a member of the Board of Education, and served with credit for a term of three years.

JOHN W. DeLANEY, a prominent farmer and successful stock raiser of Smith township, Belmont County, and one of its leading and representative citizens, was born in this township, December 24, 1840. His parents were John and Elizabeth (Montgomery) DeLaney, the former of whom was born in the State of Maryland, coming to Belmont County while < the National Road was being built, making his way from Baltimore afoot. He was fatherless and dependent upon his own resources, his father having met death on the Potomac River. Prior to coming to Ohio, John DeLaney had served as a soldier from Maiyland against the British, in the War of 1812, and was wounded.

When John DeLaney first came to Belmont County, he was engaged as a tobacco packer with the father of Col. J. E. Charlesworth. Several years later he bought a farm near Ferris Mills, which he improved, and then removed to the farm now owned and occupied by his son, J. W., of this sketch. Here he died, September 13, 1864, aged 75 years. The mother of our subject, Elizabeth (Montgomery) DeLaney, passed away March 30, 1878, having lived 84 years. Both parents were regarded highly in their locality. Their three children were : Hannah, who became

Adr. DeLaney is one of the large land owners of Smith township. Here he was born, reared and educated and here his useful life has been passed, mainly in agricultural pursuits, great attention having been given to stock raising. Mr. DeLaney probably owns the finest herd of thoroughbred Spanish Merino sheep in Belmont County and justly takes pride in them.

He is considered an authority in stock matters, notably so in sheep, and he has done much to raise the general standard in Belmont County. The fine farm where he now resides and upon which he built his elegant home, in the summer of 1878, comprises 160 acres and formerly belonged to his father. In addition, Mr. De Laney owns no acres in the northwest quarter of section 16, and a valuable tract of 80 acres in section 24. This is all valuable, cultivated land and some of the choicest in the township.

In 1878 Mr. DeLaney was united in marriage with Mary E. Workman, who was born in Knox County, and the five children born to this union are : Jerusha Jane; Martha Florilla, the wife of Harry Scott, of Warnock; A. N. ; J. W., Jr.; and Susan E.

As one of the representative members of the Republican party in Smith township. Air. De Laney has been called upon to accept a number of local offices and has performed the duties of the same with credit to himself and his locality. For a long period he has been a leading member of the Concord Presbyterian Church. He is one of the intelligent, upright, public-spirited citizens of his township, one always found in the front rank in progressive movements, and one whose advice may always be relied upon in agricultural affairs.

JOHN L. CUNARD, a worthy representative of one of the old families of Belmont County, Ohio, and a prominent farmer of Lhiion township, owning two fine farms of 93 and 50 acres, in section ii, and another large cultivated tract of 150 acres, in section 10, was born in Union township, November 15, 1874.

Smith Cunard, the father of JohnL., was born November 15, 1839, in LTnion township, and died January 10, 1902, in the same township, in which he passed his whole life, a farmer by vocation, and a large land owner, possessing 520 acres in the township. He was interested in sheep- raising and made it very profitable.

He was a man of estimable character, highly regarded in his community and was very frequently called niion to settle estates and hold township offices, being one of the truly reliable, solid citizens to whom a community looks for assistance in times of adversity or anxiety. At the age of 22 years he married Christina Cosset, daughter of William and Elizabeth Cosset, the former of whom lived to attain the age of 97 years and the latter, the age of 80 years. Mrs. Smith Cunard died August 12, 1902.

Marion Lee Cunard, the grandfather of John L., came to Ohio from Loudoun County Virginia, about 183C and settled first in Richland township, Belmont County, where he remained until 1846 ,and then removed to section 4, when he lived for 12 years, removing then to section 5, where he purchased 160 acres of land and lived upon it until his death, which occurred in 1868, at the age of 52 years. His parents were Edward and Adah (Thatcher) Cunard, both of whom died in Loudoun County where Edward Cunard was a slaveholder, - his widow eventually freed her slaves. Edward Cunard died a young man, but his widow survived him, living to be 80 years old. The children of Edward Cunard were: Marion L., Steven T.. Luther C., Sarah Ann (Mrs. d'homas Stone), Nancy C., (Mrs. Smith Marks), Mary P., unmarried, and Maria (Mrs. Craven Copeland), all of whom are deceased. Marion Lee Cunard married Permelia Nichols, who was born December 7, 1817, and died March 18, 1844. She had nine brothers and sisters, as follows: Maria (Mrs. James Gardner), deceased; Nancy (Mrs. William Norris) : Jonah, who first married Nancy Hoge and second, Jerusha Erance; Balaam, who married Abigail Hatcher; Sarah (Mrs. Caldwell Dunn) ; Samuel, who married Sarah Dillon; Elizabeth (Mrs. Andrew Richey); Alfred, a resident of Mercer County, Ohio, who married Eliza Hoover, now deceased ; and Daniel, who married Adaline Brock, and resides near Mount Hope school house. Other members of our subject's family are. John, an uncle, residing in Wheeling township, Belmont

County, who married first Lettie Spencer and second, Katie Neihart; and an aunt, Mrs. Ada A. Ferguson, born April 10, 1844, who was educated in the common schools and was married to Joseph W. Ferguson, July 19, 1879.

John L. Cunard was one of a family of five children born to his parents, three of whom died in early life. He was the fourth in order of birth, his surviving sister being Elizabeth Piersel, the wife of William Piersel, of Union township. This sister has one child, Mary Christina. Mr. Cunard and his sister have a claim of 150 acres of land in Union township, which is in the possesion of Sadie Rankin, who has a life claim on it, she having been a member of the family since her seventh year.

Mr. Cunard was educated in the common schools of his township, and has followed farming and stock raising all his life, making a specialty of grain crops. On November 15, 1899, married Ella Ida Walker, a native of Belmont County, and a daughter of William and Matilda Walker of this county. Mrs. Cunard was the seventh in a family of nine children born to her parents, the others being as follows : George, a resident of Bridgeport ; Margaret (Mrs. William Taylor), a resident of this county; Nancy, deceased; Orville, at home; Amy; James; Frank; and Clyde and Nellie, twins. One son. Walker Smith, was born to our subject and wife, on August 25, 1901. Mrs. Cunard is a consistent member of the United Presbyterian Church and is much valued socially. Mr. Cunard belongs tO' no secret societies, and votes with the Republican party, although in no sense a politician. He is one of the best known and most highly respected young farmers of the county and Ihds fair to become one of its most prominent farmers.

T. C. AYERS. The legal profession in St. Clairsville, Ohio.is well represented by men who have won reputation throughout Belmont County, and among these is T. C. Ayers, whose field of practice covers the county. State and United States courts. Mr. Ayers was born in Noble

Philander C. Ayers is one of Belmont County's most substantial farmers. After a residence of 14 years in Noble County, he moved to Belmont County, in 1863. 1862, he sent a substitute into the army, as his removal to Belmpnt County made it necessary^ for him to remain at home. He is in every way qualified to fill responsible positions, but has accepted only local offices. He has reached the age of 74 years, and his wife is about seven years his junior. Both are most highly respected members of the Methodist Church. They became the parents of 14 children, namely: Margaret F. (Morris); Mary E. (Bigley) ; Emma A. (Groves) ; Anna M. (Henderson) ; T. C. ; Adda E. (Howell); Tabitha J. (Barber); William F. ; E. E., a minister, who married Eleanor Elder; iMinnie C., who is at home; Harriet K. (Shepherd); John H., who married Clara Carpenter, and lives on the home farm; Esther M. (Shepherd); and Lorena B., who died in 1876, at the age of three and a half years.

The subject of this sketch attended the common schools and Hopedale Academy, in Harrison County, and pursued a course in the Ohio State University at Columbus, Ohio. He studied law under John Pollock, of St. Clairsville, and completed his legal studies at the Cincinnati Law School, in 1889. Since that time Mr. Ayers has made his home in St. Clairsville, and by reason of his public spirit, progressive enterprise and ability as a lawyer, he has become one of the leading citizens of the place.

On May 10. 1888, Mr. Ayers was united in marriage with Mary E. Gibson, who was born in Noble County, Ohio, and is a daughter of the late LeRoy Gibson, and a relative of General Gibson. Her mother was Margaret Berry, and both the Gibson and Berry families are old and honored ones in Belmont County. Two children were born to this union, - Kendall G. and Cecil L. Mrs. Ayers is an active member of the Methodist Church.

a prominent member of Belmont Lodge, No. 16, F. & A. M., in which he is past master. He is a past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, and was one of the organizers, on November 9, 1897, of the lodge of the Modern Woodmen of America, of which he has since been clerk. This lodge was the first one of that order in this Congressional district. As an orator, Mr. Ayers has always been in great demand during political campaigns, as his logical reasoning and fluency of speech impress his points as conclusively on an audience of voters as on a jury. IMr. Ayers is held in high esteem in St. Clairsville, his record having shown him to be wise in counsel, generous and fair in spirit, a scrupulous olficial, and honorable and agreeable in all the relations of life.

ISAAC H. PITTMAN, a well-known citizen of Pilcher, Wayne township, Belmont County, and the efficient and popular postmaster, was born April 17, 1870, in Monroe County, Ohio, being a son of David B. and Rachel Jane (Ady) Pittman.

The Pittman family is of French origin, but the grandfather of our subject, Theodore Pittman, was a native of Ohio, born near Beallsville, in Monroe County. His son, David B., was born in Monroe County in 1846, but came to Belmont County in 1881, locating first on Piney Creek, near Beallsville, removing to his present fine farm in section 30, near Pilcher, in 1885. For several years he has served as supervisor. His wife, Rachel Jane Ady, was born in 1850, near Cameron, j\Ionroe County, a daughter of Joshua and Catherine (Hurd) Ady. Our sul^ject is the eldest of the seven children born to his parents, the others being : Theodore A., a farmer of hlonroe County, who married Ella Hudson and has two children, - Elvert and Herbert; Ida, who lives at home; Catherine, who married Ezra Kirkbride, a farmer near Pilcher, and has two children, - Rose and Vernon; Charles, who is engaged in the huckster business and resides at Pilcher ; and Stephen L. and Marion S., who are both at home.

Mr. Pittman was educated both in Monroe and Belmont counties and took a supplementary course in a normal school. For nine years he engaged in farming' in Wayne township, l)Ut in 1899 turned his attention in a different direction, embarking in a mercantile business at Pilcher. Since its opening, his business has been greatly enlarged and now Mr. Pittman carries a stock that is valued at $2,000, conducting a general store and supplying a large territory. Since September, 1901, he has also l)een the postmaster and has become one of the most prominent men of the village, owning his own comfortalde and attractive home, his store and other property.

In 1891 Mr. Pittman was married to Flora Sutton, who was born in Wayne township, near Flunter, a daughter of Joseph and Phrelove (Stidd) Sutton, both families being among the early settlers. Mrs. Pittman has one sister, Mrs. Ernest Moore, of Wayne township. Mr. and Mrs. Pittman have one bright little son of JO years, Bracy S., who is an apt student at school and already a help in the business.

In politics Mr. Pittman is stanch in his Repul)licanism and is highly valued by his party. Ilis fraternal connection is with the lodge of Knights of Pythias, of Jerusalem, Monroe County. Both he and his estimable wife belong to and liberally assist in supporting the Christian Church.

SAMUEL GILLASPIE, a well-known agriculturist residing in York township, Belmont County, Ohio, resides on the old home farm where he was l)orn and has always lived. The date of his birth is 1842. and he is a son of David Gillaspie and grandson of David Gillaspie.

David Gillaspie, grandfather of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania and at the age of 16 years was in the block-house at Wheeling, (West) Virginia. Fie was a potter by trade and for some years worked aljout Wheeling. Upon coming to York township, he located upon the farm now owned and occupied by our subject, which has been in possession of the Gillaspie family for more than 90 years. He took up section 27 in partnership with the Moore family and lived upon this farm until his death in 1857. He married Hannah Stuckey, by whom he had the following children : John, Jacob, David, Nancy, Lydia, Barbara and Elizabeth.

David Gillaspie, father of our subject, was born in York township in 1812 and resided here all his life, dying in 1887. He was a Democrat in politics and served as township trustee many years. He married Matilda Gates, who now resides at Beallsville, Ohio, at the advanced age of 84 years. To them were born three children : Samuel ; Philena,

Samuel Gillaspie was reared in his native county and in 1862 enlisted in Company E, 52nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., in the 14th Army Corps, under General Sherman, accompanying that great general in his march through the Southern States to the Atlantic Coast. Upon the close of the war he returned home and has since engaged in farming. He helped to build the present house on the farm, as well as the barn and other outbuildings, and at the present time owns 72 acres of well improved land.

Mr. Gillaspie was joined in marriage to Melinda Hurley, who was born in Washington township, Belmont County, in 1847, is a daughter of Nehemiah and Elizabeth (Willis) Flurley, being one of eight children that grew to mature years: Washington, Charlotte,

Eranklin, James, Nehemiah, Cyrus, who died in Andersonville Prison, Sarah E., and Melinda. Those who died before reaching maturity were Adeline, Eveline, Sarah E., and an infant. To our subject and his wife were born the following children : Annie married

Louis Schafer and has three children living, Leroy, Myrtle, Goldie, and one deceased, Bernice Marie; Zepheniah married Mary Boner and has a daughter. Hazel ; Effie married George Kreichbaum, of York township, and has a son, Clarence; Elizabeth (Perin) has two sons living, Pdoyd and Ralph, and one de- ceased, John N. ; Winona, wife of Albert Newliart, has a son, Newell; Myrtle, Hattie, and Sherman. Three children - Maud, Lena, and an infant - are deceased. In politics Mr. Gillaspie is independent. Socially he is a member of G. A. R. Post, No. 595, at Armstrong's Mills. Religiously he is a member of the Christian Church.

Ithamer P. Gillaspie, a cousin of our subject, residing in section 28, York township, was born December 2, 1848, and is a son of John and Margaret (Cree) Gillaspie, his mother, who is 76 years of age, residing with him. His father was born in 1803 and died in 1879. Ithamer is one of 10 children: Melissa D., widow of David Carpenter, residing in Mead township; Nancy Jane, deceased, who was the wife of William Richmond; Wellington, of Wirt County, West Virginia; Ma'rgaret Elizabeth, deceased, wife of Abram Ramsay; David C., of Emporia, Kansas; John J. ; Hannah; Mary E. ; Ithamer P., and George W., of Glencoe. Ithamer P. Gillaspie married Sarah Janet Gift'en, who was born in York township in 1850 and is a daughter of John G. and Sarah Giffen, and they have four sons and one daughter, as follows : Martha J.

(Fish), of Bellaire, Ohio, who has two children, Neva and Eula ; Everett E., of W est Virginia; George W., of West Virginia; Cleveland G., and Clarence A. The Gillaspie family is one of the oldest and best known in York township.

PETER NEFF, a representative of one of Belmont County's oldest and most prominent families, is engaged in farming in Pultney township near the farm on which he was born, August 28, 1822.

Peter Neff is a son of George and Margaret (Helm) Neff, who came to Pultney township from near Baltimore, Maryland, as early as the spring of 1806. George Neff owned a farm, but followed blacksmithing, being one of the first to follow that trade in the county. They were parents of the following children:

Jacob Neff, who was born December 18, 1806, was married to Mary Owen, June 17, 1830. He lived and died in Richland townsliip. Andrew, born November 24, 1808, was married to Jane Alexander, April i, 1845, Henry, born July 30, 1811, is the oldest of the family now living. He was married to Matilda A. Hall on October 15, 1844. Mary, born July 30, 1813, is now deceased. George, born February 20, 1815, was married March 6, 1849, to Sarah Bucher, who died in June, 1900. He resides on his farm near Neff's siding. For a period of 60 years he conducted the sawmill now operated by his son, Franklin, it liaving been built in 1832. He has six children, as follows: John B., who is vice-president and general manager of a large fruit exchange in California; Enoch, who is a physician of St. Joseph, Missouri; George, who died at the age of two years; Margaret E., who died in 1882, at the age of 26 years; Franklin, born in 1858, is a civil engineer, manages his father's farm, is interested in coal and manufacturing enterprises and is secretary and treasurer of the Standard Stone & Brick Company, - he was married in 1891 to Mary E. Hall, a daughter of William Hall of Pultney townaliip; and Mary S., who married James S. Culverhouse of Cadiz. Hannah, the sixth child of George and Margaret (Helm) Neff, was born August i, 1817, and was married October 15, 1840, to James T. Scott. John, deceased, was born January 19, 1820. Elizabeth, who was born August 29, 1825, married Enoch D. Crawford, October 21,

Peter Neff is living on a farm which formed a part of the old homestead, and his fine brick residence is but a short distance from the place where he was born, although a new house stands on the old site. He follows general farming and has a great deal of pasture land, raising thoroughbred stock.

Ada. Clarence W. was born December 25, 1853, and actively manages our subject's farm of 326 acres. He married Mary Bell McKelvey, Octol>er 20, 1876, and has two children: Alva IMeades and Ada Luella. Ada, who was born March 23, 1857, was married October 25, 1876, to Thomas McKelvey, who resides near Bethel station, by whom she has two children; Clarence, who is with the Charles Arnold drug company of Bellaire, and May, who is at home. In politics, Mr. Neff is a Democrat. He is a member of the Coal Brook Presbyterian Church. His son Clarence W. and the latter's wife belong to the Belmont United Presbyterian Church.

DR. ISAAC G. COPE, whose death occurred August 31, 1898, practiced his profession in Belmont County for nearly 40 years, being located in Colerain township. Early in his career he gained an enviable reputation as a i)hysician, which increased as the years went hy. He was loved hy his many patients for his manly virtues ; he was in truth a "family physician,'' and the sick in spirit as well as in body confided in him.

Dr. Cope was Ijorn in Colerain township Eebruary 12, 1840, and was a son of Dr. Caleb Cope, whom the older generation remember as one of the pioneer physicians of Belmont County.

Dr. Caleb Cope was for many years the leading physician in Colerain township, and was noted not only for his great skill in his ])rofession, but also for his public spirit and loyalty to his country. He sent four of his sons to serve in the Civil War and contributed most liberally to its continuance. After a period of illness, he died October 6, 1875, aged about 65 years, sincerely lamented by a large family and by patients distributed all over the township and vicinity. Dr. Caleb Cope's- first marriage was to Mildred Eorvler, and six sons were born to this union, namely. Dr. Isaac G. ; Alexis and Herman, twins; John W. ; James H. ; and Orlando. Alexis enlisted at the be- ginning of the Civil War, as a private, for three months, and then became a veteran in the 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., coming out of the service with a captain's commission. Eor a number of years he has been the superintendent of the State University of Ohio, at Columbus. Herman died at the age of six years. John W. served in the Civil War as a member of the 98th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. He was married at Chattanooga, Tennessee, and died in that city in 1882, at the age of 39 years. James H. resides in Colerain township. Orlando is the superintendent of the Belmont County Infirmary. The mother of these sons died in 1849, and in 1850 Dr. Cope married Julia A. Erench, and the four children born to this union are the following: Dr. Charles

S., who resides in Michigan; Dr. William H., who resides in California; Erederick, who lives near Martin's Eerry; and Mary, who has her home with her brother, William H., in California. Eor some years she was a successful teacher in the county. The second Mrs. Cope died in 1873. Both she and her husl)and belonged to the Society of Eriends.

Dr. Isaac G. Cope was educated in the common schools of Earmington, Colerain township. He read medicine with his father and was engaged in practice when President Lincoln issued his call for 75,000 troops to quell the rebellion. He enlisted as a private, but on account of his medical knowledge was soon made hospital steward, and later was commissioned surgeon, in 1864. He served about three years and then resigned in order to return home and take up his father's practice, the latter being in failing health. Until his death, he was in constant practice and became still more eminent than his father. He was a valued member of the G. A .R. and was also connected with the Masonic societies of St. Clairsville.

On May 4, 1865, Dr. Isaac G. Cope was united in marriage with Elizabeth C. Dungan, a native of Belmont County and a daughter of B. Ellis and Sarah (Fox) Dungan. Mr. Dungan, who was a prosperous farmer, died March 14, 1883, at the age o£ 75 years; his wife died April 25, 1889, in her 8ist year. Both Mr. and Mrs. Dungan were estimable members of the Society of Friends. They had a family of eight children, as follows : Josiah, who was a clerk in a grocery, died in 1861, at the age of 25 years; Charles is a farmer of this county; William is farming on the old Dungan homestead; Thomas C., who is an attorney and real-estate dealer, lives in Missouri; Mary Anna married Edgar A. Berry, who is farming in Colerain township; Elizabeth C., the wife of our subject; Julia, who married John Lash, a jeweler in Wheeling, resides in a pleasant home on Wheeling Island; Sarah C., who married John Wiley, resides on a farm in Colerain township.

A family of 1 1 children was born to Dr. Isaac G. Cope and his wife, the record being as follows : Caleb H., who is a farmer of Belmont County, married Anna Hughes and they have three children, - Harold D., Esther L. and Bertha ; Dr. Ellis C. ; Mary Anna ; Sarah M. married Edwin Steer and has two children, - Ralph C. and Frank; Elizabeth |C. ; Alice M., who is taking a trained nurse's course in the Allegheny General Hospital ; Mabel I. ; Edith S. married Hollarn J. Cope and is a teacher in the San Jose (California) public schools, - they have on child, .Robert; Julia L. ; and Isaac G. and Lucille, both students at school.

Dr. Ellis C. Cope, second son of Dr. Isaac G. Cope, was born November 26, 1869, in Colerain township. Inheriting instincts, and spurred on by the eminent examples of his father and grandfather, he decided early in life to adopt the medical profession, and directed his studies to that end. His preparatory reading was pursued under his father and he graduated in 1893, at the Ohio Medical University, at Columbus. After a year of practice as a physician and surgeon in the Protestant Hospital, at Columbus, he began work in this county, locating at Barton. He has been made surgeon at this point for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and for several of the standard insurance companies.

1900, to Mercy Pratt, a native of Belmont County, being a daughter of Joseph and Anna Pratt. Mr. Pratt died at the age of 43 years, but Mrs. Pratt still survives and resides near Barton. Dr. Cope stands well both socially and professionally, being a member of the county, State and national medical societies, and being also identified with the leading organizations of a social nature in his community-

JOHN F. SHRY. A thorough business man, well-qualified farmer and prominent county official is found in John F. Shry, of sections 30 and 36, Wayne township, Belmont County. He was born in 1862, in Somerset township, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Baker) Shry.

Henry Shry was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, and came to Belmont County a fatherless boy. He found a pleasant home with Henry Gregg of Goshen township, with whom he remained until he began his own life as a farmer, becoming the owner of property in Goshen, Somerset and Warren townships. In politics he was always identified with the Democratic party. His death took place on November 30, 1900. The mother of our subject was Elizabeth Baker, who was born in Harrison County, Ohio, and who died when John F., who was the youngest of ten children, was four years of age, the others being; Milton H., who was a member of the 60th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., died in the army during the Civil War ; George also served in the army and died later in Belmont County, leaving a widow and farriily in Barnesviille; Thomais Irvin resides in Kirkwood township, this county; Winfield S. lives in Wayne township; Sarah Elizabeth is the wife of Jonathan Mercer of Warren township; Mary Eliza is the wife of Jonathan Briggs of Salem, Ohio; Ruth Ella is the wife of J. J. Sears of Piedmont, Ohio, formerly treasurer of Harrison County; William H., a horse dealer in California ; and Martha Jane, the wife of George Armstrong, of Morristown, Ohio.

When John F. Shry was lo years old, the family mo\'ed into Warren township and two years later into Goshen township, and in both townships was his education secured. In 1890 he ])urchased from Mr. Copeland his present line farm of 95 acres, and located on the place, making the greater part of the improvements that now add so much to the value of the property. Until within the past three or four years Mr. Shry has followed an agricultural life. Fie has of late been much interested in coal optioning and oil leasing, also giving some attention to politics. Like his father, he is a stanch Democrat, and is serving as township trustee, belonging also to the Board of Education.

In 1889 Mr. Shry was married to Mary Ellen Day, who was horn in Somerset township, and is a daughter of the late George Day, who died December 3, 1900, having served four years during the Civil War, a member of the 52nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. Two daughters have been Ijorn to this union, namely ; Bertha Mabel and Laura E., both little maidens at school. Mr. and Mrs. Shry attend services in the Methodist Church. He is a ])ublic-spirited, wide-awake citizen, fully equal to the demands of the day, and holds a high place in the regard of the residents of Wayne township.

JAMES RALEY, deceased, one of the hardy pioneers who performed his part in converting Belmont County from an unbroken wilderness into a country of rich farms, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 1756. When a young man, he went to Frederick County, Virginia, where he married Rachel Steer, a daughter of James and Abigail Steer of the same place. After five children had been born to them, they removed to what was then the Northwest Territory, purchasing from the government a farm in the northern part of Pease township, Belmont County, choosing a spot on a sunny hillside near a never-failing spring of water. Here James

Raley followed blacksmithing and with the help of his family soon cut off enough of the timljer to till the soil and raise crops, and in a few years had a plentiful supply of the comforts of life. Their sugar was made from the maple trees, their clothing from the flax they raised, and the wool from their sheep. The forests had to be cleared away before crops could be raised, but in common with other pioneers they toiled bravely on and soon were rewarded by a good living. Both James and Rachel Raley lived to an advanced age in the full possession of their faculties, and were buried in a near-by Friends' burying ground, where rest the remains of all their children except one. The farm remained in the family for 86 years and is now in possession of Edgar Berry. They were through life consistent and valued melubers of the Society of Friends. Of their children, who were 10 in number, several died before reaching maturity. Among those who grew to manhood and womanhood were: Asa; Hannah, who married John

Howard, by whom she had 10 children, of which number, one is now living, their descendants mostly being located in Iowa; Ann, who married Thomas Hirst, and is survived by a son who lives in Whittier, California, her descendants mostly being located in California and Arizona; Joseph, who married Sally Fowler, but died without issue; and Rachel, the youngest daughter, who married Daniel Atkinson, and left three children, - Mary, who married Evan Beitler of Cowles, Nebraska; Ruth, wife of John Thomas Packer, of Marietta, Iowa, and William, who married Catherine Williams and lives near Pleasant Grove, Ohio.

Asa Raley was born in 1797 and grew to be one of the substantial men of Pease township, Belmont County. In 1826, he married Asenath Hirst, a daughter of David Hirst. The latter, a son of John and Mary Hirst, was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, in 1761, and in 1796 was joined in marriage with Ann Smith, a daughter of Thomas and Rachel Smith. In '1815 they removed to Ohio, living two years at Mount Pleasant, Jefferson

County, nine years at Colerain, Belmont County, and the rest of their lives at Flushing, Belmont County. They reared a large family of children, the descendants of whom are settled in the West with the exception of a few who remain in Belmont County. These children were : Thomas, John, Israel, Asenath, Rachel, Mary, Smith and Hannah. Smith Hirst, the last survivor of the family, died at Colerain in 1898, aged nearly 90 years, leaving no family. They were consistent and useful members of the orthodox branch of the Society of Friends, and firm in their adherence to the doctrines held by them as a society.

To Asa and Asenath (Hirst) Raley were born the following offspring: David H., who lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.; Dr. J. Newton, who lives in Reading, Lyon County, Kansas; Mary H., wife of Edward Stratton of Salem, Ohio; Martha R., married to Joseph Russell, afterward to Gibson Binns (both now deceased), of Colerain, Ohio; Rachel R., wife of Jacob Maule of Colerain, Ohio; and Elizabeth and Melissa A., who are unmarried.

D. H. DARRAH, owner and proprietor of "Darrah's Pharmacy," a flourishing business establishment at No. 3175 Union street, Bellaire, Ohio, has worked in various capacities, but for the past 20 years has been chiefly engaged in the drug business. Mr. Darrah was born in 1856 and was reared at St. Clairsville, Ohio. He is a son of John and Martha (Harris) Darrah and grandson of William and Letetia (McFarland) Darrah. His mother was a daughter of David and Mary (Arrick) Harris and granddaughter of Enoch and Laney (Dew) Harris. His grandmother, Mary (Arrick) Harris, was a daughter of John and Susanna (Price) Arrick.

William Darrah, our subject's paternal grandfather, emigrated from Ireland and located at St. Clairsville, Belmont County, where he was engaged in mercantile business until his death. His wife, Letetia McFarland, was a native of Scotland.

John Darrah, father of D. H. Darrah, followed farming for some time prior to his death, but had investments in various public enterprises. Previous to, and during the Civil War, he bought and shipped stock to Chicago. He died soon after the close of that conflict. His wife's father, David Harris, served nine consecutive years as Probate judge of Belmont County.

D. H. Darrah was educated in the public school adjacent to his father's farm, three miles west of Bridgeport on the National Pike, and also had the benefits of an academic course in Franklin College at New Athens, Ohio. In 1874, he located in Bellaire and clerked several months in the First National Bank. He then entered the drug store of Husbands & Inskeep as an apprentice to learn the drug business. He afterward worked Gn a similar capacity with J. & M. N. Mercer, druggists, with whom he remained two years. A little latter he purchased an interest in the Bellaire Democrat and in partnership with John R. Gow tried journalism for about six months. In the latter "seventies" he purchased a drug store in South Bellaire and has been engaged mainly in that line of work ever since.

In 1896 he erected his present store building of modern design, which is built of brick and is two stories high. The lot upon which the structure stands is 120 by 24 feet, and the building itself is 84 by 24 feet. It has a steel ceiling and is conveniently arranged, being well stocked with drugs and the usual line of accessories found in any first-class drug store. The place also contains a fine soda fountain and everything is well arranged and neatly kept. Mr. Darrah is a registered pharmacist and fills prescriptions in a careful manner. In addition to this, he handles the finest line of pure drugs in the city and has put upon the market several preparations of his own composition. Conspicuous among the latter are "Darrah's Headache Powders" and "Darrah's Pleasant Worm Syrup." living', a daughter, Katie, and one deceased. Pearl, who died aged 12 years. In politics, Mr. Darrah is a Republican. Pie has served two terms as township clerk. At one time he was a candidate on the Republican ticket for county auditor. The county was then heavily Democratic, but notwithstanding this fact he was defeated by only two votes. He filled the office for 10 months, however, being appointed to fill a vacancy by the county commisioners. Mr. Darrah was appointed postmaster of Bellaire in 1888, during Harrison's administration and served four years.

In Masonic circles, our subject is a member of both the blue lodge, in which he served as master, and the chapter at Bellaire and of Hope Commandery No. 26 of St. Clairsville, of which he is senior warden. Aside from his business, he is interested in various enterj)rises. He is upright and honorable in all dealings and enjoys a good patronage. The family favor the Presbyterian Church and stand well in social circles. Mr. Darrah is a charter member of the Dollar Savings Bank of Bellaire, and has served as a director of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company.

JOHN CALDWELL, one of the substantial, representative and public-spirited citizens of Wheeling township, Belmont County, Ohio, who resides upon his fine farm comprising 168 acres of land situated in the coal and oil belt, was born May 18, 1843, in Wheeling township, at the home of his grandfather, John Bell.

The family is of Irish origin, the grandfather of our subject, also named John Caldwell, being a native of County Antrim, Ireland. He came to America with his family, when his son William was about five }^ears of age. In Ireland he married Mary Black of his own county and they had three children horn in the old country, - William, Jane and John Patrick, - while Elizabeth was born near Philadelphia, where they landed. The family started west at a later date, and at Pittsburg the father, with others, took a fever and died, leaving the widow in the strange land with four children to rear. She located in Washington County, Pennsylvania, about five miles west of Washington and bravely took up her burden, following weaving in order to bring her little ones bread. She educated them as well as she could, and kept them together, and in every way was a woman of character well worthy to be remembered by her descendants.

William Caldwell, the father of our subject was born in Ireland, Eebruary 14, 1814, and crossed the ocean with his parents in 1819. He lived with his mother near Little Washington until they removed to Ohio about 1830, when they located on a little farm near Fairpoint in Wheeling township, moving in 1836 to a farm which is now the site of Bannock, which he in association with his uncle, Patrick Black, bought equally, - William buying the west half, about 75 acres. June 2, 1842, Mr. Caldwell married Mary Jane Bell, daughter of John and Margaret (Dunn) Bell, of this county and of Scotch descent, tracing an ancestry to Robert Bruce of Bannockburn. After their marriage, William and his wife went to housekeeping on the farm, occupying the old log house then standing, the uncle building a new brick residence on his portion of the land, where he with two brothers lived out their lives. William also built a new residence and both of these still stand, some additions having been made to them. There were horn to William and Mary Jane (Bell) Caldwell a family of 13 children, namely : John our subject; Margaret Dunn, who was born in 1844, and died in 1852; William Taggart, who was born July 10, 1846, married Mary E. Price, has nine children, and lives in Wheeling township ; Patrick Black, who was born May 12, 1848, married Nancy Armstrong, has five children, and lives in Richland township, near Bannock; Elizabeth Jane, who was born July 26, 1850, married John Clark, has four children and lives in LTnion township; Robert Bruce, who was born April 26, 1852, married Margaret Snedeker of this county, has two children and lives in Richland townf ship, near East Richland; Mary, who was born January 27, 1855, died of diphtheria, in 1863; Annie Bell, who was born June 27, 1856, married Fred M. Daniel, has seven children, and resides in Richland township, near Bannock and St. Clairsville; an infant, born in 1857, deceased; George Alex., who was born July 13, 1858, lives single on the home farm at Bannock; James Hammond, who was born May 18, i860, died of diphtheria in 1863; Martha Ellen, who was born January 23, 1862, died of diphtheria in 1863; and Sarah Agnes, born March 4, 1864, who lives on the home farm.

Our subject remained at home until 1872 when, on January 24th, he married Euphemia Elizabeth Hays, a daughter of Henderson Hays, of Wheeling township, near Uniontown. After marriage, he moved to his present farm where he has continued to make improvements, erected all the buildings except the barn and has engaged in extensive farming. Mr. Caldwell's land is very valuable, lying as it does, in the coal and oil belt of the State. Since the death of Mrs. Caldwell, in 1894, various members of his family have resided with him. In religious belief, our subject is a Presbyterian, and like his father, active in the work of the church, also like the latter being identified with the Democratic party. For many years he has been township trustee and school director, and in 1890 and again in 1900, he served as land appraiser. Mr. Caldwell is much esteemed in his locality as an upright man, and one who through his public-spirit has assisted in the growth and development of his township.

JOHN J. KOEHNLINE, deceased, was for many years a prominent man of Bridgeport, Ohio, and during his long and useful life stood among the foremost and most enterprising citizens of Belmont County. He was born in Fulton, (West) Virginia, March 28, 1840, being the second child and eldest son of John M. and Elizabeth (Klem) Koehnline.

John M. Koehnlein was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1816, and came to the United States in 1838. The trip was made on board a sailing vessel and he was four months on the wa}o He located in Bellaire, Ohio, removing some time later to Marshall County, West Virginia, - while living there his marriage took place. His wife, Elizabeth Klem, was a native of Baden, Germany, and their marriage was consummated at Bellaire, Ohio. Mrs. Koehnline died February 5, 1899, the advanced age of 81 years and five months. Six children were born to her and her husband, as follows: Elizabeth, John J., the subject of this biography; Jacob; Catherine B.; Henry; and William. Elizabeth, rvho married Nicholas Zimmer, died at the age of 58 years. Jacob enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, serving four years. He finally died from cholera, after an illness of about five hours. Catherine married William Conway and is also deceased. Henry is a resident of the city of Bridgeport, Ohio, and William is a contractor and builder and real estate dealer of the same city.

John M. Koehnline was a pioneer in this section of the country. He opened the mine between Aetna and Bridgeport, during the war, having removed to the latter place in 1863, and engaged in the coal business. He shipped the product of his mine as far south as New Orleans. Elis death took place in 1875.

John J. Koehnline, our subject, was educated in his native place and was one of the pioneer river men on the Ohio River. He boated coal to Cincinnati and Louisville, from Bridgeport and often from Pittsburg. He had a steamboat of his own called the " General Harrison," and was also engaged in transferring freight across the river at Bellaire. In 1890, he moved up the river opposite the Wheeling steel bridge, and carried on the coal business from that point. This mine is now fun by his sons, and is the largest retail mine in the city, furnishing employment to upward of 18 men.

In company with his brother, William, our subject opened an ice house, under the firm name of Koehnline Brothers and for a number of years carried on a successful business.

Later an artificial ice plant was started by our subject and his son, George, and a flourishing business in that line has beeen carried on to the present day, the son having succeeded to the business. The plant has a capacity of 24 tons per day and during the summer season furnishes employment for 10 or 12 men. Four wagons are required to distribute ice, the product being disposed of in Bridgeport and vicinity. The running expenses of the plant exceed $200 per week, and it ranks among the most practical and useful enterprises in the city.

Mr. Koehnline was quite an extensive property owner, and floated the first coal to Louisville after the war. He enlisted in the Union Army, June i, i86i, as a private in the 2nd Reg., West Virginia Vol. Inf., which later became a cavalry regiment. Our subject served with the regiment throughout his term of service. having enlisted for four years. He was engaged principally in scout and picket duty previous to 1S64, and during that time participated in the engagements at Lewishurg, Sinking Creek, Wytheville, and various others. He was subsequently attached to Milroy's Brigade, 3rd Division, 3rd Army Corps, of the Army of West Virginia. He rvas with all the movements of the regiment until he was honorably discharged from service at the expiration of his term at Camp Carlisle, June 6, 1864. He took active part in the battles of Bull Run, Kelley's Ford, Rocky Faced Gap, Alleghany Mountain, and Beverly, and in the minor engagements of Lloyd's Run, Piedmont, New Market, and many other skirmishes. He also took part in Averill's famous raid. He was wounded in battle, hut never severely, but had numerous narrow escapes from danger by reason of his personal disregard of danger.

October 7, 1871. Mr. Koehnline was united in marriage with Miss Cilles, a daughter of George and Barbara (Smith) Cilles. The ceremony was performed on Wheeling Island, Rev. J. T. Latane, an Episcopalian divine of Wheeling, officiating. Mrs. Koehnline is the eldest of 10 children. Her father was a gardener by occupation and died in 1897, aged 76 years. He was a member of the Lutheran

Church. Flis wife, whose death took place during the same year, was a faithful member of the Catholic Church. Mr. and Mrs. Cilles reared the following children : Mrs. Koehnline, widow of our subject; Casper, who resides near Parkersburg, West Virginia; Minnie, deceased ; Amelia, who died when about 32 years old; Christina; Louisa, who died aged 19 years ; Tillie, wife of William Baker, of Wheeling; Jennie, a stenographer and bookkeeper in Wheeling; Rosa, who died aged 13 years; and George, a gardener of Wheeling Island.

Mr. Koehnline's death took place April 14, 1902, being 62 years and 17 days old at the time of his demise. He was not only an interesting character, but was a valued citizen as well. He lived almost all his life in Bridgeport, and was prominently connected with many of the important business enterprises of this city. He was a worthy and upright citizen and he was deeply mourned by a large number of citizens in this section of Ohio. He was a valued member of the G. A. R., and was past commander and treasurer of the same. Politically, he was an ardent Republican. In religious circles both he and Mrs. Koehnline were active members and workers, the former being a member of the German Lutheran Church ; and the latter has been a member of the Episcopal Church since her loth year. She has ever been a devoted and active worker in both church and Sunday-school work, contributing very lil)erally toward the support of both.

Mr. and Mrs. Koehnline reared a large family. Nine children were born to them, viz. : John J., Jr., who died in infancy; George M. ; Rosa B., who married James W. Dillon, of Bridgeport, and has one child, Elmer W. ; James A. ; Katie E., who was a member of the graduating class of 1902 of the Bridgeport High School, is assistant bookkeeper in the office of her brothers ; Thomas ; Harrison and Mary A. and Frederick, who died in infancy.

George M. Koehnline and his brother, James A., succeeded their father, John J. Koehnline, in the coal and ice business, and are regarded as being among the mose successful and rising young merchants of Bridgeport.

Crawford Welsh Armstrong

CRAWFORD WELSH ARMSTRONG, owner and operator of the Armstrong Mills in Washington township, located at one of the important stations on the Ohio River & Western Railroad, is one of the leading business men of Belmont County. Mr. Armstrong owns the town site at this place, and has had the property surveyed and platted, it being the only one of its kind in Washington township. Here he has erected a number of comfortable houses, many of which he has sold to resident employees of the great mills. For a number of years Mr. Armstrong has concentrated his efforts here and has engaged extensively in a mercantile business.

On December 5, 1841, Mr. Armstrong was born at Armstrong's Mills, being a son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Wedsh) Armstrong, the former of whom was born March ii, 1813, in Belmont County, a son of that old pioneer Thomas Armstrong, who, with his family, migrated from Pennsylvania to Ohio and settled in 1811 on Captina Creek. Here Thomas Armstrong started a tannery and young Alexander learned the business and when, in 1833, the father opened up a general store, the son was equally useful in a clerical position, exhibiting indeed so excellent a business capacity that in 1839 '^^as admitted to a partnership, his brother James receiving the other half interest in 1843. In 1844 Alexander Armstrong purchased the grist mill which his father built and continued to operate it in connection with a woolen factory, at the latter place manufacturing cloth and yarns and working the wool into rolls for the use of the neighboring farmers' wives. In 1847 brothers disposed of their dry goods and discontinued that branch of their business, but Alexander subsequently opened a new store, in partnership with a Mr. Miller, who, in 1849, interest to James

Armstrong. The firm of Armstrong Brothers continued until 1854, when the goods were again disposed of and the store room was leased to William AVoodburn, who continued there a few years and then removed his stock elsewhere.

a born merchant, again started into the mercantile business at his old stand, in partnership with E. W. Bryson, the latter retiring six years later, and Mr. Armstrong continuing alone until his death in March, 1884. During all this time he also conducted the woolen factory which he had built in 1846 and which is still a part of the large store building now occupied by the firm of C. \N . Armstrong & Son. Mr. Armstrong was the postmaster at this place from the receipt of his commission from President Tyler until his death, and he was succeeded for one year by his son, C. W. Armstrong. The mercantile business is now conducted by a Mr. Lindsey, who is also the postmaster. Alexander Armstrong was a man of unusual business acumen and became possessed of a large amount of property, owning 1,100 acres of land exclusive of his mills and stores. He was one of the important factors in the organization of the Bellaire & Southwestern Railroad, now the Bellaire, Zanesville & Cincinnati Railway, and served both as director and as vice-president. A later reorganization has changed this road into the Ohio River & AVestern Railroad, hut during Mr. Armstrong's connection it bore its former name. He was prominent also in the Methodist Church, and also in public life, as late as 1871 having a clerical position under the administration of Hon. Isaac AAAlsh in the State Treasurer's office. In all these various lines of activity, Mr. Armstrong displayed an uprightness of character and recognition of business integrity which reflects honor upon his family and the enterprises which hear his name.

In 1839 Alexander Armstrong was united in marriage with Elizabeth AAtelsh, who was horn February 21, 1819, in Belmont County, and was a daughter of Crawford and Mary Ann (Erford) AARlsh, the former of whom was horn July 7, 1784, in York County, Pennsylvania, and married in 1807; and the latter of whom was born September 20, 1789, in Cumberland Count}', Pennsylvania, and died Februar}' 21. 1875. Crawford AARlsh came to Belmont County soon after his marriage and took up land in the eastern part of Richland township, Inhnging liis wife in 1808 and here he died Decemher 13, 1S63. He had been a man of affairs and had served four terms in the Ohio Legislature. These children were born to Crawford Welsh and wife: John, Isaac,

Ilcnry, David, Elizabeth, James R., Temperance, Mary Jane, and Crawford Erford. John, who was horn Decemher 15, 1808, became ])rominent and served as associate judge in this county hut died at Laclede, Missouri, in 1866. Isaac, who was horn July 20, 1811, married IMary Armstrong, daughter of Thomas Armstrong, moved then to Beallsville, Monroe Comity, engaging in mercantile pursuits and the buying and shipping of tobacco, until 1854. Then he removed to a farm on Capitan Creek, near Armstrong's Mills, and lived there until death. In 1857 he was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives by the united vote of Americans and Republicans, was re-elected in 1859, and then served two years as Senator from the Belmont and Harrison County district. In t868 he was presidential elector for the 1 6th District and was chosen to carry the vote of Ohio to Washington. In 1871 he was elected State Treasurer and held the office to within six weeks of the expiration of his second term, his son Leroy completing the unexpired time, IMr. Welsh dying November 29, 1875. Henry, who was horn April 3, 1814, moved to near Laclede, Missouri, and died there. David, who was horn August 27, 1S16, died July 29, i866, at Glencoe, Richland township, having served as surgeon of the 33rd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., through the Civil War. James R., who was horn September 7, 1821, died in youth. Temperance, who was horn August 9, 1824, married Rev. John C. Thompson, a minister of the Congregational Church, and died May 29, T90T, at Clarksfield, Ohio. Mary Jane, who was horn January 10, 1828, died young. Crawford Erford. the only survivor, was born Decemher 19, 1833, served in the Civil War as a member of Company F, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., from August. 1862. until discharged Decemher 19^, 1864, on account of a severe wound in the leg, received in June, 1864, at Kenesaw Mountain, has never married but resides at

Crawford Welsh, Zwingle, Alonzo A., Hon. Elihu B., Rev. Thomas, Leroy Wood, and Mary Elizabeth. Julius Armstrong was born April 6, 1840, and resides at Columbus, where he is chief clerk in the oifice of the Secretary of State, having been first appointed by Governor McKinley and re-appointed by Governor Nash. From August, 1862, until the close of the Civil War he served in Company F, 52nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. He married Lizzie Warren of Belmont County and has three children, - Edna, Clara and Warren. Zwingle Armstrong was born December 22, 1843, and resides at Armstrong's Mills on his farm of 475 acres, where he built an elegant brick residence in i860. His first marriage was to Rosalie Kelley, who was born in 1853 at St. Clairsville, daughter of John and Rachel (Judkins) Kelley, the former a county treasurer many years ago. Mrs. Armstrong died 30 years since. The present Mrs. Zwingle Armstrong was formerly the widow of H. T. Meek, of Bellaire, and the children of her first marriage are : Nellie, the wife of J. M. Armstrong of Pittsburg; and Elsie, a student at Mount Union College. Alonzo A. Armstrong was born November 23, 1846, and is an Indian agent for the government in Arizona. He married Jennie Woodburn and they have one daughter, Florence. Hon. Elihu B. Armstrong was born September 7, 1849, has served two terms as State legislator and resides at Armstrong's Mills. He married Mary H. Lindsey, who died in November, 1899; the six children of this union are as follows : Carl, Bertie and Bertha (twins), Rex, Robert and Edith. Rev. Thomas Armstrong was born October 15, 1852, and is the pastor of the Methodist Church at Cadiz, Ohio. He married Maggie Neff and they have three children. Leroy Wood Armstrong was born May 26, 1857, and resides on his farm near the mills. He married Mattie Armstrong of Delaware, Ohio. Mary Elizabeth, who was born September 3, 1861, mar-

Crawford Welsh Armstrong, our subject, has made his home at Armstrong's Mills all his life except during an army service and from 1866 to 1871, when in business at Glencoe. From 1872 to 1882, at which time he purchased the mill, he was engaged in merchandising for his father and managed the mill, in the latter year purchasing the mill. He carried on the business on his own account until it was burned in April, 1900. No time was lost in rebuilding the mill, with increased facilities, and it was started January 15, 1901, with a capacity of 35 barrels. After the death of his father, our subject with his brother, Elihu B. Armstrong, continued the store about one year and then sold that line to Julius Armstrong, who several years later sold to H. B. Wilkinson, who in turn sold to its present proprietor, A. J. Lindsey. In the fall of 1892 our subject started the present store, which is conducted under the firm name of C. W. Armstrong & Son, the latter, Frank B.. having taken a half interest and for some years having been the manager of this large stock. Mr. Armstrong owns 50 acres of the town site, as noted before, and has done much to make this a very attractive locality.

B. , a very successful business man: Estella E., the wife of Luther Perkins of this vicinity, their children being, - Mary and Chester ; Bessie B., a student in a medical college at Columbus preparing for a professional life; Harry M., an engineer at the flouring mill; and Gertrude, at home.

Mr. Armstrong has a notable war record; enlisting as a private in November, 1861, in Company D, 43rd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., he was soon promoted to be corporal; December 31. 1863, he was appointed duty sergeant; and August 9, 1864, 1st sergeant. On April i, 1S65, he was made captain and mustered out as such July 19. 1865. Politically he has alwa}^s been identified with the Republican party, as have the other members of his family. Many township offices have been thrust upon him, and he served three years as jury commissioner, one of the first appointments by Judge J. B. Driggs in this county under the new law. Eor the past 30 years he has been a consistent member of the Methodist Church. His fraternal relations are with Hess Post, G. A. R., No. 595, of Armstrong's Mills. In every relation of life Mr. Armstrong occupies an honorable position and he is very justly regarded as one of the most progressive business men of Belmont County.

JOHN C. JOHNSON, who conducts a farm in Richmond township, Belmont County, Ohio, has various other business interests and is one of the substantial men of his vicinity. He is a native of this county, born in Colerain township, October 23, 1850. and is a son of Robert Johnson. His grandfather, George Johnson, was a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, and came to this country when a young man, settling near Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.

County in 1840, locating first in Pease township and then in Colerain township where he died. He also resided in Harrison County for a period of 17 years. He was a coal miner, well digger and riverman, in addition to which he engaged in farming a part of the time. He was a member of the IMethodist Church all his life, as were his parents before him. Prior to the war he was a Democrat, and then changed his political allegiance to the Republican party. He married Emily Dowell, who was born in Brownsville. Pennsylvania, and died in 1855, 37 years. They had

Jolin C. Johnson has employed most of his time in hnying and selling options on coal land, disposing of 2,100 acres in this manner in 1901 at a goodly profit, and still has some 1,900 to dispose of. He is a coal miner and worked for some time in the mines of Belmont County, in the mines at Streator, Illinois, and at other places. He worked on a farm during his early life, and in 1898 purchased the Kinter farm of 234 acres, which he is now successfully operating.

June 26, 1878, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Rebecca Ella Robison, a daughter of John and Lydia Robison. Mrs. K'ohison is now living at the age of 93 years, is hale and hearty, and every indication ]ioints to her reaching the century mark. Mrs. Johnson was born in Harrison County, August 28, 1853. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson liave been blessed with eight children, as follows: Anna Ma}^; Frederick; Cora Belle;

Mary Elva; Asa Jay; Clara Emma; and two who died young. Our subject is a Republican in politics, and is serving his second term on the School Board. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

J. OLIVER PORTERFIELD, a well-known educator of Belmont Count}^ Ohio, in which profession he has been engaged for the past 20 years, was born on the home farm in section 31, Smith township. April ii, 1861. He is a son of Alexander and Lydia Jane (Carleton) Porterfield, and grandson of John and Margaret (Rohh) Porterfield.

John Porterfield was born in County Donegal, Ireland, and came to the United States in t8oi, locating first in Pennsylvania. In 1805, he removed to Jefferson County, Ohio, where he remained until i8ii, when he came to Belmont County and located in Richland township on the farm now occupied by Prof. W. D. Porterfield. In 1818 he removed to Smith township, where he died. He and his wife had 16 cliildren, as follows: Elizabeth; Susan;

Margaret ; Emily ; Mary, widow of George Myers, residing in Pultney township; Monica; Andrew; Jane; Nathaniel; Alexander; Sarah, widow of George W. Kemp, residing in Goshen township ; and Joseph. But two of the family are now living.

Alexander Porterfield was born in Smith township, January 22, 1830, and died June 6, 1900. He was married November 6, 1856, to Lydia Jane Carleton, who was born in Goshen township March 12, 1839, and is a daughter of Thomas and Margaret ( Pryor) Carleton. She was born on the farm settled upon by the Carletons in 1814, and which has since been in the possession of the family. Her father, Thomas Carleton, was born in 1813 and died July 15, 1869. He married Margaret Pryor, who was born in 1819 and died October 16, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Carleton were parents of the following children: Lydia Jane; Joshua, deceased; Mark

L. ; Margaret Ann (Bentley), deceased; Thomas W., of Smith township; William, of Smith township; Elizabeth (Kinney), of Montgomery County, Kansas; and John O., of Goshen township.

Alexander Porterfield and wife had five children, as follows : Margaret Isabelle, who is at home; Clara D., wife of J. W. Stonebraker of Smith township; J. Oliver, subject of this sketch; Emma L., wife of W. W. Lucas of Smith township; and Crawford O., who owns and resides on a part of the home farm in Smith township, - he married Margaret I. Mellott, a daughter of Joshua R. Mellott of Smith township.

J. Oliver Porterfield was reared and primarily educated in the country schools. He entered upon his profession in 1883, and has since continued, his first schools being at Lampsville and in Goshen township. During 1886 and 1887, he taught at Hopedale College in Harrison County, and has since been located at many different places. He is at present in charge of the Lampsville school. He has never married and resides at the home built by his father in 1875, a most substantial and comfortable brick structure. The farm consists of 480 acres and

Politically, our subject is a Republican and since September i, 1900, has served as a member of the board of school examiners for the county. He was appointed to this office for a term of three }^ears.

JOHN W. NEFF, capitalist, planing-mill owner, coal operator and farmer, is prominent in each line and is one of the leading men of Belmont County. His large and well-cultivated farm, comprising 288 acres, is located nine miles south of St. Clairsville, and is one of the most valuable tracts of land in Richland township.

Mr. Neff is a son of Belmont County, born in 1846, in Pultney township, his parents, Andrew and Jane (Alexander) Neff, also being natives of the same township. The father died in the old home in 1852, having been a successful farmer through life, a member of the Democratic party, and long connected with the Presbyterian Church. The mother was a daughter of Robert Alexander, and she died in 1883, at the age of 68 years, a most consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. Robert Alexander's wife was a Miss Dixon. The three children born to our subject's parents were: John W., Alexander and Andrew J.

When Mr. Neff began his planing-mill operations in 1880, the machinery was erected in his barn; in 1883 his great new mill was ready for the expansion which had taken place in the business, which is now the most extensive in its line in the county. The many articles manufactured at his plant include such as the following: Siding, flooring, molding, brackets, casing, ceiling, window and door frames, farm ladders, step ladders, water troughs, sleds, telephone brackets, porch columns, fence pickets, paper roofing, Carey's roofing, lining paper, deadening felt, shingles, lath, lime, plaster, doors, windows, transoms, wire cloth, fence.

wood pumps, Myers' pumps and hay tools, spraying pumps, roller doors, track and hangers, pulleys, rope inch and under), hinges, locks and catches, nails, oil and paints, ochre, white lead and roof coating. To meet further demands, Mr. Neff is building another plant at Neff's siding. Another of his enterprises, the Neff Coal Company, is located just below. Mr. Neff is interested in the Shadyside Real Estate & Improvement Company, in various lots and enterprises in Bellaire, and is also a stockholder in the Dollar Savings Bank of Bellaire.

.McKelvey, a daughter of Samuel and Lucinda (Creamer) McKelvey. She was born in Mead township, Belmont County, in 1847. Four children were born to this union, namely : Lizzie E., who married Frank Mellott; Harry A., who married Dora Schramm, daughter of Jacob Schramm ; Andrew ; and Oliver. The religious connection of the family is with the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Neff is a man of business stability and integrity and is regarded with feelings of the highest esteem throughout Belmont County, hlr. Neff was one of the promoters of the Enterprise Telephone Company, and has been a director in the organization since its incorporation. In connection with his many other enterprises, he is also successfully engaged in the fruit-growing industry, making a specialty of plums and small fruit.

LEE EVANS. In Lee Evans, Wayne township, Belmont County, finds her oldest citizen who has continuously made his home here, and also one of her most successful farmers and leading men. Mr. Evans was born within tw© miles of his present home, in Wayne township, in 1826, and he is a son of John N. Evans, who was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, and accompanied his parents to Belmont County about 1804.

youth, and earlier family records are not at hand. He followed farming all his life and, later, coming to Ohio, bought a small farm in Goshen township, Belmont County, where he settled and became a man of consec|uence. For 20 years he was a justice of the peace in Goshen township and later was made treasurer of Wayne township. He died at the age of 70 years, in July, 1847, widow surviving some three years. Their children were these : John N., who was the father of our subject; Alfred, wbo was a merchant at Belmont, where he died; Israel, who moved to the West, became a farmer near Council Bluffs, Iowa, and died there; Nathan, known as Judge Evans, of Cambridge, represented the i6th District in Congress, and died at the above place; Margaret, who died at the age of 60 years ; George, who died on his farm in Indiana; Elizabeth, who married William McEarland, died at the age of 80 years, her husband still surviving in Goshen township, at the age of 90 years; Sarah, who is deceased ; Ezra E., who was known as Judge Evans, of Zanesville, was at attorney and died in the fall of 1901 ; Aaron, who has reached the age of 83 years, resides in Wayne township, near Somerton; and Albert, who died in youth.

John N. Evans resided in Goshen township until his marriage, and then moved to Wayne township, locating on the ridge, some two miles north of Newcastle, moving later to a property one mile south of Hunter, and then removing to a farm directly east, two miles, where his death occurred in 1862. Mr. Evans, like his father, became one of the prominent and responsible men of his time, called upon to fill offices and to assist in township government.

The mother of our subject was Jane Kinney, who was born in 1800 in County Armagh, Ireland, and who came to America in young womanhood. Her death occurred in June, 1859. She was a woman of strong personality and strength of character, and left a large family inheriting many of her admirable attributes. Tier children were : Elisha, deceased ; Mary, who resides in Western Iowa, at the age of 81 years; Thomas, deceased; Lee, of this biography ; Margaret, who lives in Wayne township; Deborah, deceased; Ruth, who died in November, 1859; Eden D., who died in Wayne township, in 1881, served three years in the Civil War; Elwood B., who resides on a farm in Wayne township; William H. H., who died in 1858; and Sarah E., who lives in Nashville, Indiana.

Eor 76 years Lee Evans has been a resident of Wayne township and has done his part in promoting the township's advancement. His early manhood was passed in farming during the summers and teaching school during the winters. Since 1863 has occupied his present farm of 364 acres, this land having been originally entered by a Mr. Stanley, but since tbe grandfather's time the homestead has been in tbe possession of the Evans family. Mr. Evans has carried on general farming and is known for the success which has always attended his efforts. In 1884 the present comfortable and commodious residence was erected to take the place of the old home which was destroyed by fire. The Evans men in every generation have been men of ability, who have taken prominent positions in their communities, and such has been the case with our subject. He has at various times served as justice of the peace and as treasurer of the township, and his opinion has been highly regarded and his judgment consulted in all public affairs. Since the organization of the Republican party he has been an ardent adherent, formerly having belonged to the Whig party and having cast his first vote for President Taylor. He has served many times as a delegate of his party and as members of various political organizations, and was a very important worker in the campaign which resulted in the election of the late Governor McKinley. Fraternally he has kmg belonged to the Masons, having been a member of Friendship Lodge, No. 89, at Barnesville, belonging now to Somerton Lodge, No. 354, F. & A. M.