Wayne Township (part 5 of 16)

Mr. Rietz married a Miss Schramm of Washington County, Ohio, who has two brothers now residing in Bellaire. To Mr. and Mrs. Rietz have been born three children. Albert, now in business with his father, is married and has one child. Lena married Charles Kaiser, of Bellaire, and they have four children. William has a position in the Dollar Savings Bank of Bellaire.

Mr. Rietz is especially influential in the public alfiairs of his city and has served the Fourth Ward for six years in the City Council. In politics he is usually a Democrat, but somewhat independent. Fraternally he affiliates with the I. O. O. F. He belongs to the German Reform Church.

HARRY C. FUHR, the popular Fifth Ward councilman of Bellaire, and a man of attainments, is now filling the position of superintendent of the Bellaire Steel Works of the National Steel Company. Both by education and inherent ability he has been prepared for this work, as is shown by the perfect regularity and attention to details with which everything in his (the electrical) department is managed. With nothing but his own resources and a vast stock of energy to rely upon, he has attained his present position. Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, he is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Fuhr.

Charles Fuhr, now deceased, was a baker by trade and followed that occupation in Wheeling for many years. Flis wife is still living in that place.

when his father died, and was reared in Wheeling under the careful guidance of his mother. He secured his early education in the public schools of the Eighth Ward, from which he graduated. Later he took a course in electrical engineering at Scranton, Pennsylvania, which he completed at the very early age of 17. After a short stay in his native city looking about for an opening, he secured a lucrative position with the General Electric Company, the headquarters of which are at Lynn, Massachusetts. Thorough knowledge of his work and strict attention to business secured him at once the confidence of his employers, and he remained with the company for three years, traveling through the East and putting in electric plants. The general satisfaction which he gave while with this firm and his experience with it enabled him to rise in his profession, and in 1895 he secured the superintendency of the electrical department of the Bellaire Steel Works of the National Steel Company. Here he has 18 men constantly under his charge. He is popular both with his employees . and with the company. Under his supervision the first electric mining machine in Belmont County was placed in position.

After severing his connection with the General Electric Company at Lynn, Massachusetts, Mr. Fuhr returned to Wheeling, where he married a Miss Rigner of that place. They have had two children - Irvin H. C., who is now seven years old,- and Wayne Charles, now an infant. The family reside at 4482 Jefferson street, but Mr. Fuhr is about to erect a splendid new residence on Harrison street.

Mr. Fuhr is a well educated man, reads and writes German with accui'acy and speaks it fluently. As a Republican he has been exceedingly active in politics both in Wheeling and Bellaire. In 1900 he was elected a member of the City Council from the Fifth Ward, and the efficient Avay in which he is performing his duties promise excellent chances for re-election. He is colonel of the

Eleventh Regiment, Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias. He is a member of Black Prince Lodge, No. 19, of Wheeling, and of the D. O. K. K. He has served four years in the \ATst Virginia National Guards, and is a member of the A. O. U. Wh

JOHN D. HAYS, treasurer of Belmont County and a prominent resident of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was born in Wheeling township, Belmont County, in 1857. He is a son of Henderson and Catherine (Downing) Hays.

Henderson Hays, was born in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, March 29, 1821, and was the eldest son of William and Elizabeth (Irwin) Hays. By the death of his parents he was thrown upon his own resources at the early age of 12 years. He resided in his native county until a short time after his first marriage, when he moved to Wheeling township, and there following farming until his death. In 1842, he married Olivia Coulter, who died in 1852, having given birth to the following children; Euphemia E., who was born in 1845, married John Caldwell in 1872; Cynthia A., w'ho was born in 1846, and was married in 1876, to John Gillespy; and Vlary T., who was born in 1848, and was married, in 1874. to R. E. Dool. Henderson Hays formed a second union in 1854, with Catherine Downing, a daughter of John and Eleanor (Lee) Downing, both natives of Ohio. Five children were born to them, namely: Wfilliam G., born in 1855, '^vho resides at Bannock, Ohio; John

E. , who was born in 1862, and died in 1863; and Lena VI., born in 1867, who was married, in 1889,' to Rev. Thomas E. Holliday, both of whom are now missionaries in India. VIr. Hays died January i, 1890, and VIrs. Hays, who was born Vlarch 21, 1827, now resides in St. Clairsville.

pointed deputy county treasurer, he necessarily moved to St. Clairsville, where he discharged the duties of that ofhce for two successive terms. In 1901, before his term of office had expired, he was nominated l;)y acclamation for county treasurer, and his election followed in November of that year. He is a man of recognized ability, and is held in high esteem.

SEBASTIAN VVIMMER, now residing at his pleasant home at the corner of 31st and Union streets, is one of the wealthy retired business men of Bellaire, having for many years condncted a sami)le room and cafe in the place, and later, in partnership with Conrad Rnmbach, engaged in the wholesale liquor business. He is now deriving a large income from his investments in various flourishing industries in the place, among them the Enterprise Enameling Works, the C. L. Dorer Eoundry and the Belllaire Bottle Works.

Mr. Wimmer's success in life is entirely due to his own well directed efforts, coming as he does of poor parentage. He was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1857, and is the son of a common, hard-working miner. At the early age of fourteen, in 1871 young Sebastian came to this country and settled in \Vheeling, West Virginia, where, preparatory to a life work he learned the cigarmakers trade. This line of work, however, he made but little use of, turning it to account merely as a stepping-stone to ^something better. By 1873 he had managed to get a little something ahead, and, coming to Bellaire, opened a sample room and cafe. After this he made money fast and continned the business for many years. In 1892 he formed his partnership with Conrad Rumbach and engaged in the wholesale liquor business. So rapidly did he accumulate wealth in this industry that in 1901, though not far advanced in years, he decided to discontinue the business and lead a less strenuous life. As fast as he has been able to lay aside money he has always invested it where it would bring in large returns, and he now owns stock in three of the largest concerns in the city, which are mentioned above, and is a director of the C. L. Dorer Foundry Company.

Mr. Wimmer married Miss Madden, who was born in Bellaire, being a daughter of John Madden, a stone-mason and contractor, who has long resided in the place. Mr. and Mrs. Wimmer have three children, two daughters and a son, all of whom are living- at home.

Mr. Wimmer has long been influential in local affairs, and has served for four years as a member of the City Council. In politics he is a Democrat, but takes issue against free silver. Fraternally he affiliates with the Turners and B. P. O. E., and in religious sentiment he is a Roman Catholic.

MADISON ALDREDGE, formerly a well known resident of Martin's Ferry, and auditor Belmont County, Ohio, and now residing in St. Clairsville, Ohio, was born at Martin's Ferry in 1858, and is a son of Madison M. and M. A. (Chaffin) Aldredge.

Madison M. Aldredge was born in Eastern Virginia in 1816. At an early age he became a mechanic and continued thus for many years. He was for a considerable period a government storekeeper. He moved from Eastern Virginia to Wheeling, (West) Virginia, in 1846, and resided there until 1861, with the exception of a short time in 1850, when he lived in Martin's Ferry. In 1861, he took up his residence in Martin's Ferry, and lived there until his death, which occurred in 1890. He was united in marriage with Miss M. A. Chaffin of Wheeling, who was born in 1822, and died in 1895. They reared the following children: Stanton

Madison Aldredge was reared and schooled at Martin's Ferry, and there learned the trade of a pattern-maker, which he followed until the fall of 1895. year he was elected auditor of Belmont County. He assumed hi% official duties in October, 1896, and his manner of discharging them won for him the approval and support of the people, as was evidenced by his re-election in the fall of 1898.

P. ; Edna M. ; Hattie G. ; Madison, Jr.; and Erank. In politics, Mr. Aldredge is unswerving in his adherence to the principles of the Republican party. Fraternall3^ he is a member of Lodge No. 486, F. & A. M.; Chapter No. 54. R. A. M. ; Hope Commandery No. 26, k. T. ; Aladdin Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.; and Lodge No. 54, K. of P.

DR. SAMUEL L. WEST is a prominent pltysician of Belmont County, Ohio, and a resident of St. Clairsville, where he was born Febraary 23, i860. He is a son of Dr. Henry West, who was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, near the Belmont County line, in 1810.

Dr. Henry West received his medical training in the Ohio Medical College, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and began his practice at Bridgeport, in Belmont County. In 1840, he removed to St. Clairsville, where he continued in practice until his death, in 1887. He was married three times, and Dr. Samuel L. West was a son of his second wife, Agnes Parker, who died in 1867, leaving four children, as follows: Lura, the wife of R. R. Barrett, of Moundsville, West Virginia; Dr. James P., of Bellaire, Ohio; Dr. Samuel L., the subject of this sketch, and Henry, deceased. The first wife of Dr. Henry W est was, before marriage, Adaline Kirkwood, by whom he had the following children: Mary B. (Carroll); Joseph H. ;

Sarah (Askew) ; John E. ; Benjamin F. ; William K. ; and Adaline K. (Lane). Dr. Henry West's third marriage was with Mary Jane Douglas, by whom he had five children, as follows: Ella D. (Enoch); Agnes (West);

Dr. Samuel L. West received his primary education in St. Clairsville, where he attended the High School. He studied pharmacy there, and was engaged in a drug store for six years. He then took up the study of medicine at the Ohio Medical College, in Cincinnati, and was graduated with the class of 1883. He immediatel}^ began the practice of his profession at St. Clairsville, where he still follows it. He has a large and lucrative practice, and is ranked among the foremost ph^'sicians of Belmont County. He has a thorough knowledge of the science of medicine, and is worthy of the confidence placed in his ability.

FRED WASSMAN, JR., is manager of the firm styled Fred Wassman & Son, which conducts the flourishing shoe store at No. 3267 Belmont street, Bellaire.

Fred Wassman, Sr., was born in Wheeling, West Virginia, and is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wassman, both natives of Germany. The elder Mr. Wassman and wife came to this country before marriage and settled at Wheeling, where they were married. Though practically without capital, having a good trade upon which to rely, he soon afterward opened in the Eighth Ward of that cit}' a boot and shoe store, which he conducted with success for many years. About 1870, however, he disposed of this business and moved to Bellaire, where he erected a large building - the one now occupied by Seller's music store and the Wassman tailor shop - and there he opened another boot and shoe store, and also engaged in some manufacturing. The last named industry, though having realized from it large profits, he discontinued in 1885, and turned his attention exclusively to the mercantile business. In 1891 he erected the large and elegant building on Belmont street where the business is now being conducted and a year later moved there. A wise financier, successful in his line, he ahvays derived from his business a large income, part of which he invested in city property. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1900, in his 71st year, he owned besides his shoe store four other large shops on Belmont street extending to the Carroll corner. Mr. Wassman and his wife had six children, whom they reared, all but one of whom were born in Mdieeling - Louisa, who married a Mr. Braunlich; IMinnie, Fred, Jr., William, who is married and is a merchant and tailor in Bellaire; Charles, who is also married, and who is cashier of the Baltimore & Ohio R. R. at Bellaire, and Carrie. The family now reside in the building partly occupied by the store. Mr. Wassman was a man of pronounced political views and affiliated with the Democrats. Fraternally he belonged to the I. O. O. F.

Fred Wassman, Jr., has for some time been connected with the shoe store which he is now, with the help of his sisters, Minnie and Carrie, so ably conducting. The building in which he is carrying on his business is a large three-story structure, 33 by ito feet, and his store is on the first floor. The Bell Telephone office is on the second floor, and the Masonic Hall on the third. Mr. Wassman handles the best grade of goods, a thoroughly up-to-date stock, and the largest probably of its kind in the city. His show window is certainly the most attractive and draws a large and paying custom. As a business man he stands high in his community, and by his honesty and square dealing, as well as marked ability, he has won the confidence of all who know him.

Besides attending to his store, Mr. Wassman finds time for the performance of public and social duties, and he served the Third ^^Hrd very efficiently^ for four y^ears as a member of the City Council. In politics he is a Democrat. Fraternally he affiliates with the K. of P.; Uniform Rank, K. of P.; the B. P. O. E. and the F. & A. M., Lodge No. 2.67, of Bellaire. Though the parents were Lutherans, Mr. Wassman and his brothers and sisters are Presbyterians.

JOHN GIFFIN, a representative farmer and iuost highly esteemed citizen of Pultney township, Belmont County, Ohio, who is also a survivor of the Civil War, was born in Pease township, on High Ridge, April 26, 1842, a son of Robert and Sarah (Hinkle) Giffin, and a brother of Hugh Giffin, in whose sketch in this volume appears extended mention of the Giffin family, which originated in Scotland and was founded in Virginia 116 years ago.

Mr. Giffin was reared on the home farm and secured his education in the district -schools of Pease township. His life has been an agricultural one, broken into by a service of five months in the army in Company A, 170th Ohio Vol. Inf., during the Civil War, and he now recalls those experiences as a member of Branum Post, G. A. R., No. 22 1 .

In 1866 Mr. Giffin married Margaret C. McAllister, who is a sister to the wife of Hugh Giffin. After marriage our subject and wife resided on High Ridge until 1878, and then moved to Franklin station, Richland township, where Mr. Giffin was engaged for three y^ears in farming, returning then to Pease township, where he operated very successfully for 16 years the place known as the Alexander farm. The tract known as the Nelson farm was then for sale, and this Mr. Giffin bought and farmed it for five years, selling then in order to purchase his present most desirable farm located in section 2, Pultney township, to which the family removed in April, 1902.

Charles Arnold

mer, who died at the age of seven months; Joseph A., who resides in Pease township, married Emma Wise and has two children, Carl and Russell; Anna M., who is the wife of Charles Wise, resides on the Keyser farm and they have three children, Nellie F., Florence and Theodore; Frank Merwood, who married Gertrude Cunningham, resides near Bellaire, their children being Felah, Frank, Ralph and Edith, deceased; Fizzie D., Martin Wilbur, Everett J., Calvin Earl and Margaret Helen, all at home, making a pleasant, happy family circle.

Until 1880 Mr. Gifhn voted the Democratic ticket, but since that time he has actively supported the Republican party. While a resident of Richland township he served acceptably as township trustee and is . now president of the Pultney township school board. Mr. Giffin's fraternal membership is in the order of Knights of Pythias. His ancestors have all been earnest workers in the Presbyterian Church, and in that faith he was reared by a careful and pious mother. He is an elder in the Rock Hill Church and is clerk of the session. Mr. Giffin is a public spirited man.

CHARFES ARNOLD, one of Bellaire's eminent and valuable citizens, is a member of the drug firm of Charles Arnold & Company, whose first-class establishment is at No. 3123 Union street. Mr. Arnold has been connected with this drug business since July 5, 1892, having purchased at that time the store of D. H. Darrah, which had been established for a number of years. A full line of the best pure drugs is carried, in addition to the numerous large and small articles usually found in a store of the kind ; the compounding of prescriptions constitutes a large part of the firm's business.

Mr. Arnold is a son of Adam and Barbara (Rice) Arnold, was born in 1867 near Beallsville, Monroe County, Ohio, and spent his youthful days in that vicinit}^ Adam Arnold was born in Fulda, Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, and immigrated to the United States while still a boy, proceeding to Wheeling, (AVest) \7irginia, upon his arrival in this country. He spent onl}^ a short time in that city, however, going from there to Bellaire, where by diligence and study he mastered the English language. Removing from Bellaire in 1852, he worked in the southern part of Belmont County at various places and finally went to Monroe County and began farming there. In this he met with the best of success and at times he also superintended the loading of coal barges, and made trips on the river.

Adam Arnold was united in marriage with Barbara Rice, a daughter of John Rice, one of the pioneer settlers of Belmont County. She was a native of Bavaria, Germany, and her death, as well as that of Mr. Arnold, took place in 1895. They had a large family, consisting of 12 children, of whom 10 are still survivors and are widely separated by their respective homes. One child resides at AA-^hatcom, Washington; one daughter lives in Butler, Pennsylvania, and one in Pittsburg; two daughters and one son are still inmates of the old homestead in Monroe County; a son, George Arnold, is an attorney-at-law in Bellaire, having his office over the Post Office. He is accounted one of the most able and eloquent barristers of the city and has a good general practice. His birth took place February 5, 1863, in Monroe County: after his early education, he studied law at AAffiodsfield, Ohio, in the office of Hunter & Mallory, being admitted to the bar in June, 1890. At that date he came to Belmont County, became a teacher and followed that profession for 10 years, beginning the practice of law in 1900. His marriage with Louisa C. Zink, of Monroe County, was prolific of three children, namely, Minnie N., Paul E. and Esther A. The family now reside at Powhatan Point, York township, Belmont County, of which town Mr. Arnold is the present mayor. He supports the Democratic party in politics and has served creditably as justice of the peace in Pultney township. Fraternally he affiliates with the Knights of Pythias, being a member of Black Prince Lodge of Bellaire.

Our subject was reared upon his father's farm and attended public school at Beallsville, Ohio, afterward taking a course at the normal scliool in that city, also. He then became a school teacher and ]nirsued that calling for three years in Monroe County. In 1888 he entered the Uniyersity of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and two years later completed the course in pharmacy. In 1890 and 1891 he was emplo)'ed as a pharmacy clerk at Ravenswood, West Virginia, and in 1892 he purchased his ])resent business from Mr. Darrah. In his l)usiness career he has shown good judgment and marked ability: he has become popular among his fellow citizens and has secured a good patronage.

Mr. Arnold is a member of and worker in the IMethodist E])iscopal Church of Bellaire, and in fraternal circles affiliates with Black Prince Lodge, No. 57, K. of P., and Arlington Di\'ision, No. 92, Uniform Rank, K. of P., both of Bellaire.

MRS. MARY E. CLEMENS. One of the beautiful, historic old residences of Belmont County, Ohio, is located in Pease township, near Blaine, and is owned and occupied l:>y Mrs. Mary E. Clemens, who inherited it from her well-known father, the late Joshua Burley. This residence was probably built by the Patterson family, as early as 1827, and it, with the surrounding farm and the stone mill, came into Mr. Burley's possession from the Ogleby estate in 1867.

The birth of Mrs. Clemens took place in klarshall County, West Virginia, then Virginia, a daughter of Joshua and Catherine (Rosebury) Burley, the former of whom was born in Marshall County, Virginia, in 1814, and died in Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, in 1883. His father was one of the first sheriffs of Marshall County and Joshua seryed for a long period as his deputy, and later succeeded to the office, which he held for two terms. Mr. Burley was also a capitalist, and was one of the most substantial men of his township. As noted, he purchased the farm now occupied by his daughter, in March, 1867, and as this property lay in the proposed path of the C., L. & W. Railway, his granting of the right of way proved very profitable to him. The company, with other considerations, gave him an engine for his grist-mill, it formerly having been operated by water power. Mr. Burley did not live long to enjoy his pleasant country home; moving upon it in 1880, he died in 1883. *He married Catherine Rose- Iniry, who was born in 1813 in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, and died in 1888. Joshua Burley and wife had four children, namely: Mary E., who became Mrs. Clemens; James L., who lived on the farm and operated the mill for some years, but now resides at Mountain Lake Park, Maryland, a civil engineer by profession; Frank, who is engaged in business at Bridgeport, Ohio, and Sarah, who married Robert Sweeney, an uncle of the present Mayor A. T. Sweeney, of Wheeling. Both of them, with their infant child, are deceased. Mrs. Clemens' brother, James L., is a man of large business interests and is engaged in platting property at Lock Lynn, Maryland, having done the same previousL at Mountain Lake Park. When he first went there he lived in a tent, while now it has been made a delightful resort. Mr. Burley's wife died a number of years ago, leaving him six sons, three of whom have since died.

On January 30, 1867, Mary E. Burley was married to Jeremiah Clemens, who was born at Wheeling, and died January i6, 1894, aged 53 years. In politics he was a Republican, and his religious membership was with the Methodist Church. He was a charter member of the Knights of Honor lodge of Wheeling, and for a number of years was its financial reporter. In August, 1868, Mr. and Mrs. Clemens moved to Muscatine, Iowa, where the former opened up a grocery business, but two years later returned to Wheeling, where for 12 years he conducted a prosjierous shoe business on the corner of Main and nth streets. When Mr. Burley bought the farm he sold his business and retired to the country and remained there, caring- for his wife's parents until their death. He was a man of most estimable character and numbered among his intimate friends many of the leading men of this locality. The three children born to our subject and husband are; Burley, aged 31 years, engaged in the wholesale liquor business at Moundsville. West Virginia, married Mrs. Charles Weaver, formerly Emma Shoemaker, of Woodsfield, Ohio; Frank B., aged 29 years, engaged in the Laughlin Mill, resides with his mother, and Otie, aged 20 years, married William Britton, and they also reside with Mrs. Clemens and have one child, Jessie Hollingsworth, who was named for Judge Hoi lingsworth, of Belmont County, this distinguished jurist being a close personal friend of both the child's grandfather and great-grandfather.

WILLIAM A. ALLEN, one of the successful farmers, large land owners and prominent citizens of Belmont County, is located in the southwest corner of Pease township, on a well appointed and finely cultivated farm of 500 acres.

Mr. Allen is a native of both Pease township and Belmont County, and was born in 1858. He is a son of John and Sarah (Greenlee) Allen, the former of whom was also born in Pease township, in 1814, and died in 1886. John Allen, the grandfather, was one of the pioneers who settled Belmont County and secured a large tract of land, at the time of his decease owning about 1,000 acres in Pease and Pultney townships. Here he carried on large farming operations and engaged extensively in sheep raising. Grandfather Allen was born in Scotland, but married a Miss Giffin in America and reared two sons and three daughters. These were: John, William. Margaret. Label, and Martha. John and his son William, the subject of this sketch, now occupy his farm, which lies in Pease and Pultney townships. Margaret married a Mr. Hinkle. Martha married a ]Mr. Greenlee. All are now deceased.

John Allen, son of John, also engaged extensivel}^ in farming and stock raising, and amassed an ample fortune. In political belief he was a Democrat. In 1848 he married Sarah Greenlee, who was born in Belmont County in 1822, and died in 1861. She was the mother of seven children, of whom only two lived to reach maturity, our subject and a sister, Martha J., who married F. D. Bailey, and resided at St. Clairsville until her death in 1884. The others were: James, John, Lizzie Bell, and an unnamed infant.

William A. Allen has always resided on the home place, which is excellently improved and one of the most valuable estates in the county. He engages in general farming, operating his farm with great success, being a thorough agriculturist. In politics ]\Ir. Allen has always been identified with the Democratic party.

The- ladv who became the wife of William A. Allen was a IMiss Annie Warrell, who was born in Washington County. Pennsylvania. A son and daughter complete the home circle, Sarah Janet and William A., Jr. Mr. Allen and family are valued and consistent members of High Ridge LTnited Presbyterian Church.

H. GREELEY BRANTDI, successfully engaged in business as a wholesale grocer in Bridgeport, Belmont County, Ohio, was formerlv a member of the well-known firm of A. Branum & Sons. He is a son of Alexander and Lvdia (Lash) Branum, the former a native of Toronto. Canada, and the latter of Belmont County, Ohio.

Alexander Branum did much to benefit his fellowmen. and was widelv known and respected in Belmont Countv, whither he removed in 1840, from his home in Canada. He followed the business of a contractor and builder for man}' years and his first work was in YTeeling where he was employed in the Top Mill. He af^er^var(l worked at the Kinsey Mill for some time, and built many buildings over West Virginia and Helmont County, Ohio, until April y, 1S52, be became a member of the firm of 1 larden & Branum, wholesale grocers. They continued under this name until 1855 or 56, when Mr. Harden went west and the partnership was dissolved. Mr. Branum then formed a i)artnersbip with Samuel Junkins and William Alexander, which firm did a successful business until 1871. He then rented the present building and established a new business with his two sons, H. G. Branum and A. C. Ifranum as partners, continuing until 1883. At this time he sold his interest to his sons and retired from active business life, enjoying his rest until the date of his death, December, 1 886, aged seventy years. As a contractor and builder he was everywhere recognized as a skilled workman; as a merchant he had wonderfully good business sagacity: as a citizen he was always earnest and active in his work, honorable and popular. He was one of the founders of the Belmont County Bank, which subsequently became the First National Bank of Bridgeport, Ohio. He always took an interest in young men and hoys, and gave them much good advice. His many little acts of kindness in this regard are yet well-remembered though he has long since pased away. In his religious belief he was a Swedenborgian, as is also his wife, who is now eighty-three years of age, a resident of Bridgejwrt at the old homestead. .She and her husband had eight children ; namely. John kl. : Mrs. Robinson Frank; A. P. ; H. Greeley, our subject ; A. C. ; P. D. : Velma ; and Anna. In July, 1862, John M. Branum enlisted in the 98th Reg. Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at the breaking out of the Civil War, leaving his studies at Hopedale, in order to serve his country. He served until March 19, 1865, when he was killed at Bentonville, North Carolina, this being one of the last battles of the war. A. P. is also deceased, having departed this life at the age of twenty-six years. P. D. Branum is one of the firm of Dillworth Bros. Co., wholesale grocers of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Velma Branum is now Mrs. F. A.

Mayberry, and is a resident of Tiffin, Ohio, where her husband is connected with a boot and shoe company. Anna married A. J. Smith, manager of the West Virginia Glass Co. at Martin's Ferry, Ohio.

Our subject is a native of St. Clairsville, Ohio, and received the greater part of his education in the schools of Wheeling and in Belmont County. He is a most successful business man and has been in business since boyhood. He is a member. of the M. E. Church in his religious opinions ; in politics he has very little interest, voting for the man who, in his opinion, is most capable to fill the position or office.

Mr. Branum was united in marriage with Nannie Rhodes in 1874. She was a native of Bridgeport, and they had one child, Charles H., who departed this life, December 21, 1899, at the early age of twenty-five years and seven days. His loss was deeply mourned as he was a young man of much promise, and an excellent salesman.

HUGH GIFFIN. There resides in a pleasant home on one of the fertile and well-improved farms of Pultney township, Belmont County, an esteemed citizen in the person of Hugh Giffin, who is a representative of a family which was established 116 years ago in the vicinity of Wheeling, (West) Virginia. Its founders came as pioneers from Scotland, bringing with them the robust health and thrifty habits of that land, and not only increased in numbers, but prospered in worldly affairs in proportion.

The birth of Hugh Giffin occurred on October 19, 1834, at High Ridge, Pease township, and he was a son of Robert and Sarah ('Hinkle) Giffin, both of whom were natives of Belmont County, Ohio, the former of Pease township and the latter of Pultne}'' township. The mother was a daughter of Christopher Hinkle, who was a soldier in the War of i8t2 from Ohio, in which State he located, coming from Pennsylvania prior to 1800. His death took place about i86o,' his life having been devoted to farming and milling. Mrs. Giffin was born September 21, i 1807, and died in 1894. Robert Giffin, the father of Hugh, was born in 1804, and his father was a native of Roney's Point, Virginia. After marriage Robert Giffin first settled in Pultney and later lived in Pease township, but in the spring' of 1851 they moved to a farm located on Moss Run, near MciMechen's Creek, where they resided until death. Mr. Giffin died in 1868. The children born to Robert Giffin and wife were the following: George, who resides in Bridgeport; Mrs. Sarah Donley, who resides near Quincy, in Pultney township, on Mc- Mechen's Creek; Christopher, who is a farmer and truck gardener, who resides near Garfield school house, in Pease township; Daniel, who died in 1855 in the West: Hugh, of this sketch:

Robert, who is a brickmason of Bridgeport, Ohio: Mulliam, who is a farmer of Moss Run, in Pultney township; Rebecca, who is the wife of William Church, of Bridgeport; John, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work; Mary Jane, who is the wife of Gilbert Neelon; Susan, who married V. McFarland, moved to Oregon about 1872 and died there in 1888, and James A., who is a truck farmer of Pultney township, on Moss Run. The first born was IMary, who lived to be but two years old.

Hugh Giffin attended the district schools in his boyhood, and was early taught the duties pertaining to life on a farm. Until 1877 he resided on High Ridge, but then purchased and located on his present farm, in section 31, Pultney township, a property which was formerly known as the James Tarbet farm. Here Mr. Giffin has successfully carried on general farming and dairying for 23 vears, becoming in the meantime one of the most highly respected as well as most substantial men of his township. He was reared in the Democratic faith and is still identified with that party. For generations the Giffins have been pillars of Presbyterianism, and for the past 36 years our subject has been a trustee of the Rock Hill

In 1858 i\Ir. Giffin was united in marriage with Isabelle McAllister, who was born in Pultne}" township and was a daughter of John and Elizabeth IMcAllister. This marriage has resulted in the birth of nine children, who, with their children, make up one of the happiest family circles in Pultney township. The youngest child has reached the age of 32 years, and the grandchildren number 28, and with Mr. and Mrs. Giffin as the center, make up one of the most vigorous and intelligent aggregations of kindred in this part of the county. Our subject and estimable wife had the pleasure of seeing them all gathered together around the home board on a recent occasion, when it was decided and later carried out to have the family group photographed at Bellaire.

The children born to IMr. and Mrs. Hugh Giffin are the following: Sarah A. married John Finney, son of James Finney, and they reside near St. Clairsville; John Wallace«ha5 a fine home near his parents and carries on a dairy business, and is the father of these children, Ella. IMyrtle, Margaret, Laura, losephine and Ernest: George D. resides at Eairmont, AVest Ahrginia, married Ida B. Blackburn and has four children. Isabel. Hugh, Louis and Elizabeth: Albert James resides near his father, married IMary B. Hopkurs and has two children, Edna and Harold; Robert Milton also resides near his father, married Mary Jane Keys and has two children. Bessie and Edith: Ross L. resides in Steubenville, Ohio, married IMaggie Kinney and they have four children, John, Howard. Catherine Isabelle and Alaro'aret Edna: Eannie luiella married George Pierson, and they reside at the home and have three children, Marv Lucille, Herbert M. and R. Erancis; Nannie Bell married Edgar E. AAfise, of Pultnev township, and thev have two children. Luther A. and Elsie May, and JMary Olive married AAfiHiam Garner and thev reside on the Erank Bell farm, near St. Clairsville.

FRY BROTHERS, the present proprietors of one of the foremost business houses in Ifellaire, Ohio, are men of unusual business propensities. The firm is composed of William 11. and James L. Fry and their business was established in 1894, since which time it has so largely increased as to make it necessary to have a different building, causing the erection of the fine new structure at the corner of i8th and Belmont streets. It is 37 feet by 64 feet and is three stories high, the first floor being devoted exclusively to the business, while the other floors are used for residence. Throughout the building may be found the latest modern improvements, such as electric lights, etc., and a Bell Jflione, No. 1,002. Their stock consists of all kinds of staple and fancy groceries, the best brands of flour, and provisions, country produce, hay, grain and mill feed, much of which is solicited by 'phone. 'Phey employ from four to five men to take care of their large trade, which extends not only throughout Bellaire, but through the suburbs and in many towns all over the county.

County, Pennsylvania, and is a son of Isaac and Touisa Fry, residents of the First Ward, Bellaire, who came to Belmont County in February, 1872. The father is now followed the coal mining business until about six years ago. William H. Fry recei^'ed his education in the Bellaire schools, and when but 17 began his business career by clerking in a grocer}^ store, being employed first by Samuel Moore and later l)v T A. Green, with whom he remained five or six years. At that time he knew the business thoroughly and embarked in the same for himself, taking his brother, James L., in with him as a partner, and they have continued since then, working their way to the position they now occupy.

William II. Fry chose Emma L. Long for his wife. She was a native of Belmont County, and they have six children and reside on 1 8th street. The names of these children are as follow^s: Thelma, Grade, Katie, Clyde, Orma, and Earl.

James L. Ery was united in matrimony with Emma Schramm, of Belmont County, and they have one son, Ray. In political opinions the brothers are strong adherents of the Republican party, and in fraternal circles they are members of the Knights of the Golden Eagle and the O. U. A. M., James L. being a member of the Knights of Pythias also. They are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CARTER BROTHERS is a leading ' firm of Bellaire, Ohio, in the wholesale and retail line, dealing in grain, hay, feed and seeds, and having commodious quarters at No. 3454 Belmont street. The firm is composed of Robert J. and William H. Carter, who are equally active in the management of the business, which was established in July, 1892. They are practically the only seed dealers in the county, and carry a complete assortment. Their attitude to the trade is cordial and friendly, while they maintain excellent relations with the public generally, their methods as well as the quality of their goods having gained them this satisfactory standing.

In 1900 they erected the present large building, which covers a lot 33 by 120 feet and is three stories in height. Two hands are employed and a number of teams are needed for delivering and hauling. The business has made a very prosperous advance during the years since it was started, and is the largest as w^ell as the most reliable in this locality.

William H. Carter w'as born in 1853, in Wheeling, (West) Virginia, a son of John Carter, who, wdth , his wife, came from County Meath, Ireland, about 1850, locating first at Wheeling. Robert J. Carter was born in 1864 at Bellaire, where his father, John Carter, w?as an early brick manufact- urer, his plant occupying the present site of the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railway depot. The one living daughter born to Mr. Carter is Mrs. Annie Carrick, the widow of M. J. Carrick, - she resides in Bellaire.

The Carter brothers first engaged in the manufature of brick, with their father, aftei they had finished the common school course, and later established and conducted for five years, from 1887 to 1892, the Carter Dairy, disposing of the same upon entering into their present enterprise. Both are yet unmarried and reside in pleasant apartments on the upper floors of their building. In politics they are Democrats, but pay much more attention to the proper and successful conduct of their business than they do to political activity. They were reared in the Roman Catholic Church and are regular in their attendance upon its services. Both are solid, sensible, reliable business men, whose success means just so much more prosperity to their city, as they are interested in all that assists in its growth and development.

JAMES SYKES ELY, M. D., is one of the most prominent physicians and citizens of Belmont Coimty, Ohio. He is one of the organizers, and the present president, of the Barnesville People's National Bank. He is also one of the founders of the Barnesville Gas Company, and the owner of valuable property interests. Dr. Ely was born August 22, 1832, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah (Brown) Ely, of Harford County, Maryland.

In 1832, Jacob Ely removed his family to Morristown, Ohio. There he followed his trade of carpenter and cabinet-maker until 1838. At that date he removed to Loydsville and embarked there in a general mercantile business which he followed through the balance of his life. Both parents were members of the Society of Friends.

and was hut 1 7 years of age when he began the study of the profession in which he has become so prominent. His first preceptor was Dr. C. Schooley, then of Loydsville, and later, of Martin's Ferry, and he completed the entire course in three years under this skilled physician. He finished his medical studies too early, however, to permit of practicing, as the public would hardly place confidence in one so young. Until he was judged old enough, the talented young physician engaged in teaching, but in 1856 he located in the village of Somerton, Ohio. In 1862, he attended a course of lectures at the Ohio Medical College, and graduated in the following June. He was commissioned as assistant-surgeon of the 126th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., November 14, 1862. He joined the regiment at Cumberland, Maryland, and when the Federal forces were driven out of Martinsburg, he volunteered to remain and care for the suffering Union soldiers. Consequently, he fell into the hands of the enemy, from whom he received good treatment and was soon paroled. While at Martinshurg, two corps of General Lee's army passed through en route to Gettysburg, and as a matter of curiosity he counted 256 pieces of artillery in their train. On their return through IMartinsburg, he also noted that none of the artillery passed through. On February 8, 1864, Dr. Ely received a commission as surgeon of the 126th Reg. Ohio Vol. Inf., and on April 21, 1864, he received a commission from the President as assistant surgeon, United States Volunteers. The AYilderness campaign was, however, then imminent, and the Doctor withheld his acceptance and remained with liis regiment. Later, he was assigned to the operating staff of his brigade, and here his work was incessant, and was of such a nature, that young physicians of today, with modern antiseptics and discoveries at hand, are forced to look with profound admiration on the successful surgeons of the Civil War.

LTpon the arrival of his regiment at Cold Harhor, Dr. Ely reported at the headquarters of the Army of the Potomac, and was mustered in as assistant surgeon of United States

\'o!iinteers, and was detailed for duty with the department of held hospitals at White House, Virginia. In June, 18O4, these hospitals were removed to City Point, Virginia, and the Doctor was there on duty until December 22, 1864. 1'hen he was placed in charge of the cavalry cor])s hospital, principally to accomplish its reorganization. In the following January, he was placed in charge of the depot held hospital, of tlie 6th Army Corps, and held that position until the surrender of General Lee, when all the hospitals at that place were broken up. On May 26, 1865, having continued on duty until the last moment. Dr. Ely transferred all the remaining hospital inmates aboard the hospital steamer "Connecticut," in charge of Surgeon of U. S. Volunteers, J. B. Hood, for transportation to Washington. Although much suffering was endured by various patients, none can ever realize the unselhsh devotion displayed by Dr. Ely, or the efforts he put forth at all times in their behalf. His valuable services were ap- ])reciated, however, by the government. On August 12, 1865, he was placed in charge of the City General Hospital at Indianapolis, and was finally mustered out of service on October 16, 1865.

After these years of faithful service, under the hardest possible conditions. Dr. Ely returned to his home, and on November 7, 1865, located in Barnesville, where he has ever since resided. In 1868, he received an appointment as United States examining surgeon for pensions, a position he held under the administration of President Cleveland.

In 1854, Dr. Ely was married to Emily E. Hogne, a daughter of Samuel Hogue. Three children were iJorn to this union, the only survior being Ernest S., who is a graduate of the Cincinnati School of Pharmacy, and is engaged in the drug business as a partner in the firm of Ely & Wilson in Barnesville. As noted in the opening of this article. Dr. Ely has been a very important factor in the development of the various commercial and financial enterprises of this city, and has become one of the most substantial citizens of Barnesville. His friends are met, and old battles talked over.

JAMES WOODS, a well-known and successful business man of Bridgeport, Belmont County, Ohio, is identified with many of the leading enterprises in this locality. While his office is located in Bridgeport, his home is situated on the Cadiz Pike and is one of the new and elegant residences along this highway.

James Woods was born at Mount Pleasant, Ohio, some 53 years ago, a son of John W oods, who was for many years prominently identified with the progress and development of Belmont County. John Woods was also Ijorn at Mount Pleasant, Ohio, in 1816, and was a son of William Woods, a native of Ireland. Grandfather William Woods married Elizabeth Harness, who was a daughter of a wealthy planter of Virginia. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and died in Mount Pleasant, Jefferson County, Ohio. Plis son John came to Belmont County March 26, 1863, and located in Pease township on a farm which was secured from Gen. Robert E. Lee, and it was land given by the government to the famous Harry Lee for services rendered in the Revolutionary War. John Woods accumulated both land and property, became a sound financier and was one of the directors of the Eirst National Bank of Bridgeport, severing his connection of 25 years shortly before his death. He died August 7, 1897. He was widely known, as he engaged in a number of business enterprises and accumulated the most of his large means by industry and keen business judgment. In his earlier years he dealt in cattle and drove them himself from one county to another: he was long a large wool buyer and handled sheep extensively for this purpose. For a number of years he was closely connected with Mr. Hogg, a wealthy business man of Mount Pleasant. He settled up his own estate and adjusted his affairs two years prior to his death. His widow still resides on the large farm which he occupied on the Cadiz Pike. The children of John Woods were four in number, namely, Janies, of this sketch; John and William A., both residents of Pease township, and Mrs. Anna S. Litten, of Colerain. Mr. Woods was prominent in the Democratic party, also in the Masonic fraternity, and exerted a wide influence in both bodies.

James Woods was married in 1900 to Jetta Hayes, and they reside in the beautiful home recently completed. Mr. Woods is a stockholder in the First National Bank of Bridgeport, and through his energy, capital and influence contributes materially to the development and prosperity of Bridgeport and vicinity.

T. BRADLEY SMITH, prominently known in Bridgeport, Belmont County, Ohio, as a member of the W. B. Hall Furniture Company, is also serving his county in the office of county commissioner, having been elected in 1896 by the Republican party.

Our subject is a native of Jefferson County, \Vest Virginia, born September 18, 1840. He is a son of Frederick C. and Mary E. (Sharff) Smith, natives of the states of Virginia and Maryland respectii'ely. Frederick C. Smith was a merchant miller by trade and was known throughout the county as one of its most enterprising business men. In 1857, he removed from his home in the Valle}^ of Virginia, and resided in Wheeling until 1862, but at that date removed to Belmont County, Ohio, and here lived many years, doing the farmers in this district great service by trading with them and furnishing them a home market for their grain. He served in some of the minor offices to the satisfaction of his party, and in his religious convictions was an attendant of the M. E. Church. He died April 12, 1883, at the age of sixty-nine }fears and nine months.

T. B. Smith received his education in the public schools of Wheeling, and in the schools of Jefferson County. At the close of school days he took up the occupation of a merchant miller, and establishing a business at Elm Grove, carried on the same for four years with much success. In 1866 he left Elm Grove and entered into partnership with his father, in the same business, at Bridgeport, Ohio, the firm name being Smith & Son. This continued until the death of the elder Mr. Smith, in 1883, when the buisness was carried on by our subject until 1898; at that date the milling business was discontinued, and no other business was established until 1902. In March, 1902, the W. B. Hall Furniture Company commenced business, the partners being W. B. Hall, Madison Aldredge and T. B. Smith, our subject. Their furniture room is very large and is one of the finest in the county. The company carries a heavy stock, and are enjoying the best trade of the city. In addition to their furniture department they have an undertaking department, which is also one of the l^est in the city, and their stock includes a fine line of wall paper.

October 8, 1867, Mr. Smith was united in nratrirnony with Nannie A. Lash, a daughter of Abram and Nannie (Powell) Lash, people who were well known throughout the county. Mrs. Smith is a native of Belmont County and she and her husband have two children, Fred L. and hlary Eloise. Fred L. is an electrician in charge of the electrical work in the plant of the iVmericaar Tin Plate Company at IMartin's Ferry. He was united in marriage with hlinnie Morgan, a native of Bridgeport, Ohio, and they have one child. IMorgan B.

hlary Eloise is now doing excellent service as saleslady in the employ of the AV. B. Hall Furniture Company; she has the advantage of a very good education, and has a knowledge of bookkeeping, typewriting and stenography, being a graduate of the Bridgeport High School, class of 1901.

Mr. Smith has clone his best to serve the Republican party since the election of Mr. Ihncoln in 1861. For several years he served as school director, and is now doing excellent service as county commissioner of Belmont County, lie and his worthy wife are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Smith is considered one of his county's most substantial citizens and has unc]uestionably good business c|ualifications.

MORDECAI NELSON, a well-known railroad man and an esteemed citizen of Bellaire, Ohio, was born in Bultney township, one mile west of this city, in 1842. He is a son of Joseph and Tlieresa (Wheatley) Nelson, the -former of whom was of Irish birth and parentage.

Joseph Nelson, the father of Mordecai, came to the United States when but a small I)oy, with his parents, who located at West Liberty, Ohio County, (West) Virginia, and when he had reached maturity he removed to Belmont County, Ohio, in 1811, just following his marriage, and located on the farm where his son, our subject, was born. Here he carried on farming all his life, dying in 1851, aged 61 years, his widow surviving until 1876, dying when over 75 years. Seven children were born to Joseph and Theresa Nelson, three of whom, including our subject, are living, namely: Mrs. Elizabeth

Hopkins, who remains on the home farm; and Joseph C., who is time-keeper for the National Cash Register Company, at Dayton, Ohio, where he has a family. The members of the family who have passed away are: IMrs. E. R. Gill; Mrs. George Mertz; John, who died 14 years ago; Robert, who died in 1884; and Isaac, who died in Nebraska in 1892, - his two sons still reside in Nel)raska.

Until the age of 21 years our subject remained at home, occupied with agricultural pursuits, receiving his education in the public schools. About two months after reaching his majority, he entered the employ of the C. & P. Railroad as fireman, between

Bellaire and Pittsburg, and five years later, in 1868, he was promoted to the position of engineer, and has served as such continuously ever since. He is fortunate in having a short and pleasant run, between Bellaire and Martin's Ferry, as this enables him to enjoy home life, which, in his case, is appreciated, as he is devoted to his home and family. Since 1878 this home has been located at No. 3632 Guernsey street, Mr. Nelson having purchased it at that time.

In 1870 Mr. Nelson married Annie E., a daughter of Thomas Anderson, of Ohio County, West Virginia, and three children were born to them, namely: Edna May, who died at the age of 16 years; Alice Lulu, and William E. In politics Mr. Nelson has always been a Republican, his father having been an old line Whig. Our subject is serving his fifth term of three years each as a member of the city water board of Bellaire. Since 1865 he has been a Mason, and belongs to Bellaire Lodge, No. 267, and Bellaire Chapter. In 1870, at Allegheny, he joined the order of B. of L. E., and belongs to Wellsville Division, No. 170.

As citizen and business man, as well as an attendant of the services of the Christian Church, of which his family are members, Mr. Nelson has so lived as to gain the regard of his fellow citizens, and he is able to number among his warm personal friends a large proportion of the leading men of Bellaire and vicinity.

HUGH M. MERRITT, who laid out the town of Merritt, in Belmont County, Ohio, is a native of Pultney township, which is still his home, having been born July 19, 1842, within two miles of his present residence. He is a son of Robert and Eveline (Milligan) Merritt and grandson of William and Mary (Long) Merritt.

AVilliam Merritt was born in 1780 and followed farming as his vocation through life. He purchased the farm upon which the Suburban Bi'ick Works are located, near Bel- laire, and lived there until his death, which took place in his 55th year, January 12, 1835. December 18, 1806, he was united in marriage with Mary Long, who was born September 7, 1783, and died February 21, 1840, in her 57th year.

Harriet, James L., Sarah Ann, Elizabeth L., and Benjamin A. Mary was born December I, 1807, and lived to the advanced age of 80 years. She married George Alilligan on the i8th day of November, 1824. They moved into West Virginia, locating for a time near Triadelphia, and they reared a large family. In later years they moved to a farm near Mt. Vernon, where both spent their last years. Harriet was born January 16, 1812, and died at the early age of three years. James L. was born June 17, 1814, and died June 15, 1815. Sarah Ann was born January 20, 1818, and her death took place April 23, 1879. She married John W. Milligan and they resided some years in Harrison County, but subsequently returned and purchased the old homestead, known as the George Robinson farm, which was their home until death. Elizabeth L. was born April 20, 1821. Benjamin i\. was born September 2, 1825, and came to his death by drowning in McMechen's Creek, May 23, 1850. He married Mary Thomas.

Robert Merritt, the father of our subject, was born March 6, 1809, and died July 26, 1884. On the 1 8th day of October, 1831, he was joined in marriage with Eveline Milligan; she was born February 19, 1812.

and died January ii, 1901. About 1847 Robert Merritt moved with his family to the farm just east of subject's present home, and the same is now owned by Charles Rosser. There the father engaged in farming and reared a large family. The children were as follows: Mary A., Eliza Ruth, James L., they lived at the Robert Alexander homestead, which is still the home of the widow. Eliza Ruth married Alfred Stroman. They lived in Southern Illinois until the death of her husband. Mrs. Stroman has returned to her old home, but now resides on the Hutchison place in Pultney township, near St. Clairsville. James L., who was a minister of the Presbyterian faith for many years, died in 1883, leaving a widow, wLo resides in California.

Hannah J. is the wife of James W. Alellott, of Richland township, near Glencoe. William W. died in 1862, during the Civil War, at Tuscumbia, Alabama, at the early age of 22 years. Sarah E. died in 1864, aged 20 years. Josiah died in 1890, aged 40 years. He was twice married, and left a widow, who resides in Atlantic, Iowa. His death took place near Griswold. Iowa. Benjamin A., who lived in Nebraska and was a candidate for R-epresentative at the time of his death, was killed in Cass County, Iowa, in 1894. Robert Mitchell is single and resides in California.

Hugh M. IMerritt, from his fifth year, was reared on the old homestead, of which he now owns a part. For several years he lived in the old log house, which was over a century old. His farm consisted of 77 acres of land adjacent to the town of klerritt, which he laid out. He has added many improvements to his place, now having a nice residence and a fine set of farm buildings. He has devoted his life exclusively to his farming interests. He has been twice married. His first marriage took place March 24. 1869, with Sarah V. Payne. She was a native of Frederick County, Virginia, and a daughter of Joseph E, and Sarah A. C. Payne. She died January 7, 1873, leaving three children: Anna Roberta, Joseph William, and Sarah E. V.

Anna Roberta was born April 29, 1870. She married William Crim, of Frederick County, Virginia, and they have two children, Lois and Hugh M. Joseph William was born July 26, 1871. and resides near our subject, lie married Carrie Dunlap and they ha\'e reared four children. The eldest two, George William and Charles Robert, are twins, and the others are Joseph P. and Helen. Sarah E. V. was born December 13, 1872. She is the wife of Charles Ridgeway, of Berkeley County, Virginia, and they have three children.

yVpril 29, 1875, Mr. Merritt was joined in marriage wdth Rachel A. Fisher, daughter of Louis and Hannah Fisher, of Smith township. This marriage is without issue, and the present Mrs. Merritt was born May 3, 1845. Politically our subject is firm in his allegiance to the Democratic party. The family attend the First Presbyterian Church of Bellaire.

\\TLLL\M LIPPHARDT. Among; the successful and rapidly expanding business concerns of Bellaire, Ohio, is that known as the Enterprise Enamel Company, which, since its organization in October, 1897, has grown into one of the leading industrial plants of Belmont County. The officers, directors and stockholders are, in the main, responsible and prominent citizens of Bellaire and vicinity.

'Hie first meeting of the board of directors of the new enterprise convened on December 13, 1897, with William Lipphardt as president; Carl L. Dorer, vice-president; James F. DuBois, secretary and treasurer, the other members being F. H. Eick, J. A. Green, Theodore Neff, and Theodore Rossbach. Since that first meeting some re-organization has taken place, and the present officers are as follows; William Lipphardt, of Martin's Ferry, president; Thomas L. Strong, vice-president and general manager; R. C. Faris, secretary and treasurer. The board of directors is composed of the following leading citizens and capitalists: William Lipphardt, Thomas F. Strong, Theodore Neff, C. L. Dorer, J. A. Green, William A. Howell, and John R. Gow.

erected to permit of the use of modern machinery, and now some two acres of land are included in the plant. The imposing main building, three stories in height, with dimensions of 60 by 120 feet, contains the offices, the packing department and store rooms. The furnace room, where the burning and baking is done, is a one-story building, with dimensions of 120 by 78 feet, while the drying and shipping rooms require another one-story building, of 120 by too feet. The building of another large structure, in which will be installed machinery for pressing iron into shape, shows that this enterprise is living up to its name, its business continually expanding until almost every part of the country is demanding the products of the Bellaire plant. The location of the Enterprise Enamel Company works is on Flnion street, between 17th and 1 8th, a situation which affords the best of railroad facilities, the Baltimore & Ohio road being on one side and the C. & P. on the other. The necessary number of employees reaches 220. The distributing point for the completed work of the Enterprise company is Chicago, the trade being handled through jobbers.

That this business should have reached such large proportions in comparatively so short a time, must, in a great measure, be attributed to the business energy of its officers, wdio have all contributed to the success of this industry, which shows every indication of continued prosperity.

W. C. BERGUNDTHAL, a citizen of Bellaire and ex-treasurer of Belmont County, Ohio, was born in 1851 in Monroe County, near the Belmont County line.

W. C. Bergundthal was reared in Belmont County, and for many years prior to 1897 was connected with the Lantern Globe Company of Bellaire, Ohio. In the fall of 1897, he was elected county treasurer on the Republican

Mr. Bergundthal was united in marriage with Cora V. Dorsey of Powhatan, Ohio, January 20, 1881, and they have two children: Wilma, born in 1886; and John, born in 1891. Fraternally, our subject is a member of Moriah Lodge No. 105, F. & A. 1\I. ; Bellaire Chapter No. 107, R. A. M. ; Hope Commandery No 26, K. T. ; Ohio Consistory S. P. R. S. of Cincinnati, Ohio; and Syrian Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Cincinnati. Mr. Bergundthal is the present cashier of the German Savings Bank of Martin's Ferry, which institution was incorporated under the laws of Ohio in the spring of 1902.

Hon. John Salisbury Cochran

HON. JOHN SALISBURY COCHRAN, Probate judge for Belmont County, secretary of the Board of Trade of Martin's Ferry, Ohio, a lawyer of prominence and a highly esteemed citizen, is a worthy representative of a family of unusual prominence in the military life of the country, for generations.

Robert Cochran, the grandfather of Judge Cochran, was a direct descendant of Sir Archibald Cocbran, the ninth Earl of Dundonald, England, and a son of William Cochran, who was a pioneer settler in Virginia, east of the present city of Wheeling. In company with William Boggs, William Cochran was sent from Fort Van IMeter as a scout to ascertain the results of the battle of Fort Henr}", and in this adventure was killed and scalped by the Indians, east of Wheeling. William Cochran also was associated with the noted scout and Indian fighter, Louis Wetzel, and accompanied him in many of his famous expeditions.

Robert Cochran was a contemporary of Elizabeth Zaire, the noted heroine whose tale has been told in song and story, who carried the powder at the battle of Fort Henry when it was attacked by the combined forces of English and Indians, September 13 and 14, 1782. It Avill be remembered that this was the last battle of the War of the Revolution and was fought after peace was declared, no electric messages then flashing the news of peace almost as soon as it was declared, as would be the case in modern warfare. At this time Robert Cochran was 20 years of age and Elizabeth Zaire was 16. Although history does not reveal the existence of any romantic attachment between the brave girl and our subject's ancestor, it is known that they were friends and companions, the family farms adjoining on the hillside back of Martin's Ferry. On the Zane farm, Elizabeth died in 1828, while Robert Cochran lived to within three months of 100 years, his tomb being the oldest one in the old Weeks Cemetery. He was a large landowner, his possessions extending from Bridgeport to Glen's Run, the same being now divided into many good farm homes. His wife was Rebecca Pierce, who was a relative, a cousin in fact, of President Franklin K. Pierce. Her death, at the age of 59 years, was caused by an injury to her throat, accidentally inflicted by the horns of a cow.

Judge Cochran was born in Colerain township, Belmont Count}^ Ohio, September 9, 1841, being a son of Robert and Susanna (Davis) Cochran, both natives of Ohio, the former born in 1813 and the latter in 1814. Robert Cochran, like his father, was a large landowner and was a successful stockraiser. During the Civil W'ar he saw six of his brave sons serving at one time in the L^nion Army, all of them being under 2 1 years of age, except the eldest, who had cast his maiden vote for .\braham Lincoln in i860. Through devotion to a son. Mr. Cochran lost his own life. One son was lying dangerously sick within the Confederate lines and the father hastened to endeavor to secure his release, and contracted typhoid fever, from which he died, in 1863, the sick son recovering and arriving safely at home. The mother survived tmtil 1893, dying at about tbe age of 80 years. Both parents were devoted in their attachment to the Methodist Church and their home was open to every minister of their religious faith. They were what this modern age. in its desire to express its highest type of Christian living, denominates, sometimes, as "real" people, and exerted an inrtuence which is stil] felt by those who came within their accjiiaintance. A family of 13 children was born to them, two of these dying in infancy. The names of the ii that grew to maturity are as follows : Robert H. ; Lncelia; JohnS., subject of this sketch; Wilson and Watson, twins ; Crowner C. ; Anna B. ; Cordelia ; Fenimore P. ; Alfaretta B. ; and Sumner F. Robert H., who was judge of the County Court of Ohio County, West Virginia, and one of the prominent men of the State, was born June 25, 1836, and died in Toledo, Ohio, h'ebruary 22, 1895, aged 59 years. He was a member of General Negley's staff and was provost marshal of that division. He participated in the battle of Stone River and other engagements. After the war, he was at different times supreme dictator of the Knights of Honor, a memljer of the executive board of the Army of the Cumberland, and made the first annual address of the meeting of the society of the Army of the Cumberland, at Chattanooga, Tennessee. He projected and constructed the \Vheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, also the Wheeling Terminal Railway, and he built the bridge 5]:)anning the Ohio River at Martin's h'erry. At different times he was president of I)Oth of these roads. Lucelia, who married John Brown, was a consistent member of the Methodist Church, and died in 1864, aged 58 years. Both Wilson and Watson belonged to the 52nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., both enlisted twice, both were sick and were discharged, and on reco\'ery both re-enlisted. Wilson removed to Creighton, Cass County, Missouri, where he is a justice of the peace and mayor of the town, while Watson resides in Severance, Doniphan County, Kansas, a successful builder and contractor, Crowner C. enlisted in the Union .\rmy, in 1862 and served through the war as a private, and now resides in Bridgeport, where he is paving contractor. Anna B. married Robert Woods and died when about 40 years of age. Cordelia married Dr. John Major, who is deceased, and she resides in Severance, Kansas. Fenimore P. ran away from home when a little over 13 years of age, enlisted as a drummer boy, was promoted to be orderly at

General Wood'^ headquarters and served until after the close of the war. He now resides at Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, and has been prosecuting attorney of the county for a number of years. Alfaretta B. married William Strain, superintendent of the schools of Brooke County, West Virginia, and is deceased. Sumner F. resides in Martin's Ferry, an employee of the Laughlin Tin Mill.

Our subject had completed his course of study in the Martin's Ferry High School, when the great wave of enthusiasm passed through the loyal North at the call of the President for troops to subdue the rebellion. On July 16, i86t, he enrolled his name as a soldier in Company K, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. The death of his father recalled him home after a service of a little less than one year, during which period he saw no small amount of active service. For a long time he was occupied in settling up the estate and in arranging his late father's affairs and then engaged in teaching while he pursued his law studies under ex- Supreme Court Judge Kemion, Sr., of St. Clairsville. In December, 1863, he was admitted to the bar and began practice at once in St. Clairsville, one year later removing to Sedalia, Missouri, where he became prosecuting attorney of Pettis County and was subsequently elected judge of the Court of Common Pleas. After four years in Missouri, Judge Cochran returned east and entered into a law practice with his brother Robert H., at Wheeling, West Virginia, the partnership of Cochran & Cochran existing until i88o, when Robert H. Cochran was elected president of the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, his removal to Toledo following. Our subject remained in Martin's Ferry as the attorney for that road and later for the Wheeling Terminal Railway, but in 1882 he bought a farm on the hill overlooking Martin's Ferry, near the old ancestral home, and removed thereto, although he still continued his practice in Wheeling. Judge Cochran has a large clientage in Martin's Ferry and the eastern counties of the State, his reputation as a fair and impartial adviser in complicated questions of law, as well as his knowledge and experience of almost every form of litigation, having gained him increasing practice as the years ha^'e gone by. At the recent election, occnrring November 4, 1902, Judge Cochran was elected Probate judge for Belmont County b}' a majority of 1,829 votes, leading all candidates on the Republican ticket, whether national. State or county.

On ]\Iarch 22, 1867, Ji-'^dge Cochran was married to hlartha A. Weldin, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, a native of Wheeling, West Virginia, a daughter of Jacob and Alice Weldin, both of whom are deceased. One son was born to this union, Arthur Weldin, who died in infancy. Both Judge Cochran and his wife are valued members of the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is an ardent member of the Republican party, while fraternally he is associated with the Knights of the Maccabees.

DEWITT DANFORD, senior member of the law firm of Danford & Danford, of Bellaire, Ohio, is not only a representative member of his profession, but he is also a leading citizen, whose usefulness in civic affairs was shown by his election to the position of president of the City Council, and his selection as city solicitor, for three succeeding terms. Mr. Danford is a Buckeye, born in Washington township, Belmont County in 1843.

His grandfather, William Danford, came to Belmont County, with two brothers, in 1799, and he made the first permanent settlement on Captina Creek, the farm now being occupied by John Danford. William Danford died in Sandusky when his son Samuel was but a youth.

Samuel Danford, the father of our subject, was born in Belmont County in 1804, and died in 1899. By occupation he was a farmer, but during the War of the Rebellion he was a mustering officer in Belmont County, his father having been in the War of 1812, with the rank of lieutenant. The family through three generations have displayed a loyal spirit and have served faithfully and well. The mother of our subject was a daughter of John Mechem, and crossed the Alleghany ^Mountains with her parents when she was but two years old. She was born in 1800 and died in 1891. Three sons and three daughters were reared by Samuel Danford and wife, one son, our subject, and two daughters still surviving. Lorenzo Danford, lately deceased, a very prominent citizen of Ohio, was elected a member of Congress in 1894, prior to which year having been a law partner with his brother Dewitt. Another brother, John, gave up his life at Stone River, during the Civil War.

In June, 1861, Mr. Danford, of this sketch, entered into the service of his country, enlisting in Company E, 2nd Virginia Regiment, afterwards "mounted infantry," and remained in the service for three years, being mustered out as a member of the 5th West Virginia Cavalry. His regiment participated in many engagements and skirmishes, a part of the time in an independent brigade, and during the winter of 1863-64 it was under the command of General Averill during his raid across the mountains. The last fight in which our subject took part was at Floyd Mountain, under General Crook.

Upon his return home, IMr. Danford entered upon the study of the law at St. Clairsville, and he was admitted to the bar of Belmont County in 1866, locating for a time at Bellaire. In 1867 he took a trip to the West, visitins: Gentry County, Missouri, where he taught school for a few months and then entered the offices of the county clerk and collector, remaining so connected for seven years. When Mr. Danford resumed his residence in Bellaire he began a law practice in partnership with J. F. Anderson, which existed until 1884, but the failing health of both himself and wife made removal to a farm a matter of importance. Three years later he came back, invigorated and in 1887 formed a law partnership with his brother, Lorenzo Danford, which con-

In 1874 Mr. Danford married Laura Cook, a daughter of Dr. John Cook. She was born in 1841 at Richmond, Jefferson County, Ohio, but the family removed to St. Clairsville some years prior to her marriage. Her death occurred in 1897, at the age of 56 years. The one son of this marriage was born at Bellaire in 1875, and is the junior partner in the firm of Danford & Danford. There are few young men in this city who have so (juickly come to the front in public life as has Cook Danford. He read law for two years with his father, and then spent two years at the Ohio State University in the Law School, and in 1896 was admitted to the Ohio bar. He is serving his second term as city solicitor. By marriage he is connected with the family of John Timberlake, prominent in Washington township, and has one daughter, Laura Elizabeth.

In politics our subject is an active Republican, and has efficiently served in many local offices. For a considerable period he was a member of the City Council, and a portion of the time its president, and as city solicitor he gave satisfaction during three terms. Mr. Danford is a Methodist in religious belief. His acquaintance is large in Bellaire. and the firm of Danford & Danford has the confidence of the public in no small degree.

HUGH M. PICKENS, who is extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits in his native township, was born September 25, 1833, in Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, in his father's cabin in the northern part of the township. He is a son of John Clark and Martha (McConahey) Pickens, and grandson of William and Agnes (Alexander) Pickens.

William Pickens, grandfather of our subject, was born September 15, 1762, in Scotland, and with two of his brothers came to this country, locating in Maryland. He came to Belmont County, Ohio, early in the nineteenth century and secured land in the northern part of Pease township from Robert and Elizabeth Woods. It was a tract of 220 acres extending to the Jefferson County line and located in section 33, township 4, range 2. The deed to this property bears date of October 21, 1821, and has since been in possession of the Pickens family. In 1822 William Pickens built a house which is still standing and is used now by S. A. C. Pickens. He was a cabinetmaker by trade, also a millwright, and made doors, mouldings, etc. He built and conducted the first sawmill on Deep Run. Later he moved to Mount Pleasant, where he became a large property holder, and there he lived until his death, April 24, 1841. William Pickens was first married to Agnes Alexander, who was born in Scotland in 1762, came to America in 1771, and died April 4, 1817. He formed a second union with Margaret DeMent, who was born August 3, 1779. By his first wife he had the following children: Margaret, born March 5, 1790; Thomas, born February 26, 1792; James, born June 13, 1794; Ellen, born October 20, 1796; William, born April 10, 1799; Janet, born November 14, 1801; Nancy A., born February 3, 1804; John Clark, born August 15, 1806, and Alexander, born

John Clark Pickens was born in Pease township and reared on the home farm. He purchased the farm now owned by his son, S. A. C. Pickens, from the other heirs, and died in the residence where he had lived from the time he was 17 years of age. He 'was married February 9, 1831, to Martha Mc- Conahey, who was born April 12, 1807, at Warrenton, Ohio, and died March 23, 1881. Their children were as follows: William, Hugh M., Margaret E., James Calvin, Thomas M.. Agnes Eliza, Martha J., and Samuel A. C. William, who was born March 7, 1832, and died in 1884, married a daughter of Dr. Caldwell, who survives him. They had the following children: Rev. John, who is a Presbyterian minister;

Hugh, who lives with his mother; Harry, who is married and lives at Adena, Ohio; Herbert, who is a druggist of Pittsburg; Paul, who is in the hardware and general agency business at Colerain; Mrs. Maude (Dungan), who lives on a farm near Newcastle, Pennsylvania; Ora (Edwards), deceased; Bessie, who is at home, and Blanche, Walter and Sadie, who died young. James Calvin was born April 22, 1838, and died October 3, 1839. Margaret E., born June 9, 1836, died March i, 1847. Thomas M., born Eebruary 20, 1840, died September 20, 1849. Agnes Eliza, born April 23, 1843, widow of Rev. Dr. Alexander, who died in Virginia, resides in Wheeling. Martha J., who was born February 9, 1845, died October 28, 1876.

Samuel A. C. Pickens was born in 1848 and has resided on the old home farm all his life. He owns a tract of 181 acres, and since his father's death in 1887 has built a fine new ten-room house. He was married in 1873 to Mary J. Finney, a daughter of Robert J. Finney, and granddaughter of Joseph and Mary (Mitchell) Finney. Joseph Finney came to Ohio from Pennsylvania early in the nineteenth century. He and his wife were parents of the following children; Robert J., John M., who resides on the old home place; James C., deceased; Jane, who resides with John; Elizabeth, wife of George Parks, living in Iowa; Elizabeth, deceased, was the wife of William Darrah, and IMargaret A., whose death occurred recently. Robert J. Finney was born near Martin's Ferry, October 9, 1823. He married Rebecca Gow, a daughter of William Gow, whose family came from Ireland, and she died December 25, 1896, at the age of 69 years. They had twelve children, Margaret A., wife of Frank Jordan, living near Bridgeport; Mar}^ J., bora in 1853, wife of Samuel A. C. Pickens; Louise, wife of I. N. Talbot of Martin's Ferrv; Janette C., who is at home: William J., who married Emma West and lives in Pease township; Joseph A., who married Eva Shears and lives in Pease township; Laura

R., wife of Dr. Burdette of Burgetstown, Pennsylvania; one who died in infancy; Robert L., who married Jane McCune and resides in Pease township; Val L, wife of W. Taylor of Pease township, and John C., who is single and lives at home. Samuel A. C. Pickens and wife have five children, as follows: Elmer E., Mattie I., Robert C., Ada R. and Mary E.

Hugh M. Pickens was reared on the farm now owned by S. A. C. Pickens and lived there until his marriage in 1857. He started for himself and lived on a farm near the old home place for some years, then was located on a farm near Mount Pleasant for a period of eleven years. Disposing of that place, he moved to Scotch Ridge, in Pease township, where he continued until 1882, when he purchased and located upon his present home farm on the Burlington Pike, about four miles northwest of Martin's Ferry. He is a very prosperous farmer and one of the respected citizens of his section.

December 24, 1857, Hugh M. Pickens was joined in the bonds of matrimony with Margaret M. Jamison, who was born in Harrison County, Ohio, December 23, 1841, and is a daughter of Alexander and Mary Jamison, both of whom are deceased. Thirteen children have blessed this union: Martha Ada, born August 23, 1839, died September 8, 1864: James Alexander, born March 2, 1861, died September 19, 1863: Mary Margaret, born September 29, 1862, died September 6, 1864: John Ross, born Julv 21, 1863, resides in Denver, Colorado: William Clark, a twin brother of John Ross, is employed in the large department store of Stone & Thomas at Wheeling: Barclay Jamison, born June 18, 1867, is employed at the Hub clothing store at Wheeling: Samuel McConahey.

born April 4, 1869, died July 29, 1870; Athelbert Hueh, born February 7, 1871, married Nevada Darrah and resides with our subject; a son, born February 17, 1873. died on October 3 of that year: a daughter, also born February 17, 1873, died on June 20, 1873: Martha Jane, born August 4, 1876, married

William Irwin and resides at Steubenville, Ohio, - they have a son, Hugh P.; Agnes Jamison, born March i6, 1873, is the wife of Walker McConnell, a farmer near Steubenville, - they have one child, Mai'y T., born in September, 1902; Lizzie Lawton, born May 26, 1880, is the only child at home with our subject and his wife. Seven of the children, with their families, are members of the Presbyterian Church, which the Pickens family has always favored.

DR. P. E. HEPLER, prominent as a physician and surgeon in Bridgeport, Ohio, as a man of discreet judgment, skilled in the profession he has chosen for his life-work, is an essential citizen of Bridgeport. He is a son of Jesse and Elizabeth (Money) Hepler, both natives of Clarion County, Pennsylvania, and descended from old and well-known families of that State.

Mr. Hepler, father of our subject, is now a retired farmer, residing at Fairmount City, Pennsylvania, and reached his seventy-eighth milestone on May 20, 1902. His marriage with Elizabeth Money resulted in three children, Dr. A. J., Margaret, and Dr. P. E., our subject. For years, the parents were prominent, working members of the German Reform Church. A. J. Hepler is now a leading physician and surgeon in New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and is examining physician on theUnited States pension board, and also occupies the position of president of one of the banks of the city. His enterprise and activity in business affairs are a credit to his ability and spirit as a citizen. Margaret Hepler married Gabriel Stallman, a resident of Limestone, Pennsylvania, who is extensively engaged as a farmer. The mother of these children is still living and was 67 years old, June 18, 1902.

Like his parents, our subject is a native of Clarion County, Pennsylvania, and was born May 10, 1872. His educational advantages were many, he being a student at the Clarion State Normal School at first, subsequently taking a course at the Western University of

Dr. Hepler, then a full-fledged physician and surgeon, chose Fairmount, Clarion County, Pennsylvania, as his first held of labor and enjoyed a good practice until his removal from there to Bridgeport, Belmont County, Ohio, in 1895, where he has since been most successful, and the general practice which he has built up in this city should be a credit and honor to the ability and purpose of any physician.

Our subject is still enjoying a life of single blessedness. In fraternal circles he affiliates with a large number of organizations, and is also examiner for some of the^m, among them the A. O. U. W., the Patriotic Order of Sons of America, Knights of the Golden Eagle, and both Junior and Senior orders of the United American Mechanics. In religious belief he is a member of the German Reform' Church.

The Doctor stands high both as a citizen and as a practitioner. He is a gentleman of courteous, refined bearing, the picture of health and strength, is well read in his profession and the literature of the day, and takes great interest in what is daily taking place.

ALLEN BAILEY, a progressive farmer and dairyman, of Warren township, Belmont Count}% Ohio, is also one of the county's most substantial and reliable citizens, highly - esteemed for his integrity wherever known.

The birth of Allen Bailey took place on June II, 1859, in Goshen township, Belmont County, one of the seven children born to Jesse and Asenath (Patterson) Bailey, three of whom still survive. Our subject was reared and educated in Goshen township and still owns a valuable farm of 100 acres in that township. Since 1889 he has resided in Warren township and here owns a farm of 150 acres, devoting much attention to dairying interests, in connection with extensive farming.

David Patterson, a carpenter by trade, and a member of one of the highly respected county families. The children born to this marriage are: Ethel E., Clifford J., Ernest D., Edna

A., Mary A., Dorothy and George Wilson. Our subject and family are all members of the Society of Eriends. For several years Mr. Bailey has served on the School Board, and belongs to the Grange, taking a deep interest in the movement. His political opinions make his vote an independent one, bound by no party tie. His Warren township farm is the one formerly owned by Hon. AVilliam Bundy, and is known to he one of the most valuable in this part of the county. Mr. Bailey, as previously mentioned, is a man who is held in the highest esteem, and has a wide circle of friends.

E. E. McCOMBS, attorney-at-law and notary public at Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, is president of the German Savings Bank Company and president of the School Board. His parents were Hiram M. and- Sarah kl. (Kemple) IMcCombs, natives of West Virginia, and our subject was born August 23, i860, in Marshall County, West Virginia.

Hiram- M. McCombs followed agricultural pursuits in West Virginia until 1877 and then located near Mount Pleasant, Jefferson County, Ohio, where he lived until 1880, when he moved to Martin's Ferry and was interested in the grain and feed business until he went on the farm previous to being again engaged in the grain and feed busines with his son. Mr. McCombs never held office, hut was often of service in helping his friends to office. He and his wife were active members of the Presbyterian Church in West Virginia, before coming to Ohio, and he served quite a while as deacon. His death took place January 2, 1894, hut his widow still survives, a much respected resident of Martin's Ferry, where she makes her home with her son, the subject of this sketch. She was the mother of five children, as follows : Charles W. : Ida Bell, who died in

1881 ; E. E. ; Etta A., wife of G .G. Sedgwick, postmaster of Martin's Ferry; and Bessie A., who died at the early age of five years in 1882, a few months after the death of Ida Bell.

The common schools of West A'irginia and Ohio furnished our subject with the education he possessed prior to his locating in IMartin's Ferry, where he was graduated from the High School in the class of 1883. Shortly after this, he accepted a position as bookkeeper and teller in the Exchange Bank, now known as the People's Savings Bank, and there remained for about two and a half years, at which time he decided to study law. Securing a certificate, he taught school for one year and read law, and finally enrolled himself among the students in the law school at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1887. He was graduated in the class of 1890, and was admitted to the bar May 29, 1890. He immediately opened an office in Martin's Ferry, and has met with success in building up a good practice. He has been identified with quite a number of important cases so far in his career, but prefers office rather than court practice. He was early admitted to practice in the State and Federal courts. He has identified himself with many of tlie leading interests of the city, and is held in the highest regard.

January 15, 1891, kir. McCombs was united in marriage with Cassie B. Chandler, a native of Belmont County, and a daughter of the late Joseph S. and Therza H. (Hogg) Chandler. Her father was for many years a prominent citizen of Mount Pleasant, Ohio, and was a weaver by trade. Mr. and klrs. McCombs have two children, Frank H. and Ralph E. In religion they are Presbyterians.

Mr. jMcComhs has never cared for office and the one he now holds as president of the School Board is the only one he has ever accepted. He has now served three years as a member and two years as president. For three years prior to becoming a member of the hoard, he held the office of president of the City Board of School Examiners, hut when he accepted the former he resigned the latter office. In fraternal circles he is a Mason, being past worshipful master of the blue lodge, past high priest of Bel- mont Cha])ter, and a meml^er of the council, coniinandcry and shrine. In politics he is a l\epnl)lican of decided opinions. He is classed among' the county's most worthy citizens.

JOHN H. McGRAW, associated with J. W. Jones, under the firm name of Jones & McGraw, is a representative citizen of Bellaire, Ohio, in every respect. The firm do a most flourishing- business and have the most extensive contracts in the city, in the building line, and are well known throughout this section of Ohio. Mr. McGraw is a son of James and Sarah (McCracken) McGraw, his birth occurring in the vicinity of High Ridge Church.

James McGraw was a native of Ireland, and was born in 1848 in County Antrim. He was also a contractor and builder by trade, and an excellent workman. He was united in matrimony with Sarah McCracken, who was also born in Ireland and left her native countiy at the age of six years. Mr. McGraw was located at first in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, but later removed to Belmont County, where he remained until his death in April, 1893, at the age of 79 years. His wife departed this life some years before, in June, t88o, and left a number of children to mourn her loss. Their union resulted in eight children, of whom the following are yet living: William, who is a farmer and justice of the peace in Colerain township; Robert, of Coffey County, Kansas; Margaret (Egan), living in Moundsville, West Virginia; Sarah, who is the wife of A. J. Keyser, residing near Flushing, Belmont County; and John H. The father of these children was a thorough Democrat and esteemed as a dutiful and useful citizen.