Wayne Township (part 6 of 16)

John H. McGraw spent his boyhood days on the home place in Colerain township, residiiig there until he became 20 years of age, when he chose contracting for his business through life and immediately started to work with an uncle, William McGraw. For the past 13 years he has met with unbounded good fortune in his business life, and the firm of which he is a member have charge of probably 90 per cent, of the building done in Bellaire, this speaking volumes for their promptness, splendid work, and strict attention to business. They employ about 20 men regularly and by kind, but firm, dealings with the workmen Mr. McGraw not only obtains the best results in the work but continues in their good will and respect. The numerous large contracts which he undertakes are filled to the letter, and thus he has the best wishes and commendation of all citizens. All his life has been spent in Belmont County, and the past 23 years he has lived in Bellaire.

Mr. McGraw was united in marriage bonds with Emma Nelson, who was born in Belmont County, and they have a family of five children, as follows: William and Robert, attending school, and John, Anna, and Herbert, who are still at home, the family residence being located at No. 4324 Noble street. The preference in religious matters is given to the United Presbyterian Church, of which our subject is now serving as trustee. Politically he is nearly always a supporter of the Democratic party, but votes for the man he considers the best for the place. In fraternal circles he belongs to Black Prince Lodge of the Knights of Pythias.

FRED NEININGER, mayor of the city of Bridgeport, has led a wonderfully active life in business affairs all over his township and countv. He is engaged in the butcher business in Bridgeport, being the oldest in that business in town, and is a stockholder in the Hide & Tallow Association, and in the Union Opera House of Bridgeport, Ohio.

Our subject is a son of John and Lucia (Gaus) Neininger. and was born June 15, 1857, claiming Wheeling, West Virginia, as his birthplace. His father and mother were natives of Germany and emigrated to the United

States and conducted a hotel at Wheeling. In 1865 John settled in Bridgeport, and started in business as a grocer and later embarked in the wholesale lic[Uor business in which he continued until his death at the age of forty-five years, in 1871. His wife has now reached the age of sixty-nine years and is still numbered among the inhabitants of Bridgeport. She and her husband had five children, our subject being the second. They are : Emma, now the wife of Elias Williams, of Wellsville, Ohio ; Fred (subject) ; Bertha, now Mrs. Fred Del-' man of Bridgeport ; Joseph, working in the mills at Columbus, Ohio; and Louis, who died at the early age of twenty years.

Fred Neininger received his education in the schools of Bridgeport, and at the close of those delightful days learned the trade of a butcher, and worked as a journeyman for thirteen years. He then embarked in the butcher business in Bridgeport and was for six )^ears president of the Wheeling Butchers' Protective Association. Fie is a charter member of the Hide & Tallow Association, and interested in many other business enterprises.

September 5, 1878, our subject was united in marriage with Louisa Cedars, a native of Germany, and they have five children: viz., Lucia, a bookkeeper and t3qDewriter; Eva, a member of the class of 1902 of the Bridgeport High School; Fred, Dora M., and Ada. The entire family are members of the English Lutheran Church, and attend services regularly-

Mr. Neininger is a Democrat in politics and takes a lively interest in township and county affairs. In 1892 he was elected councilman, and his service in this line was so satisfactory that in 1894 he was re-elected. In 1896 he was elected to the position of treasurer, and served with credit until 1898, when he became a candidate for mayor of Bridgeport and was elected, serving until the close of the nineteenth century, and was re-elected to start the new century. While fulfilling his duties as treasurer he ran for county commissioner on the Democratic ticket, and ran 1028 votes ahead of the ticket. All the Republicans elected had a majority of 1600 with the exception of the opponent of our subject who had only 412 majorit}' and this alone speaks well for our subject's popularity not only with the Democrats, but lilcewise with the Republicans.

In fraternal circles Mr. Neininger is a member of the Knights of Pythias and also affiliates with the Elks. He is a progressive and up-todate man and evidently believes firmly in twentieth century progress.

ELLIS P. LEE, editor and publisher of the Banicsvillc Enterprise, which is one of the leading local papers of Eastern Ohio, was horn in Berks County, Pennsylvania, August 16, 1842, and is a son of James and Lydia Lee, of Berks Count}o

Mr. Lee was born in the same house (which is still standing) in which Daniel Boone was born, and by intermarriage of his ancestors with the Boone family is distantly related to the noted Kentucky hunter. He can also trace his ancestors back more than fifteen hundred years, by the marriage of his great-grandfather to the daughter of Edward and Eleanor Foulke, descendants of the royal families of England and Wales. The genealogical tables of the Foulke family show different lines of descent from about 300 A. D., through Edward L, William the Conqueror, and the various kings of Great Britain, down to the time the Foulkes came to this country in 1698 and settled at Gwynedd, Pennsylvania.

In 1861 klr. Lee graduated with honor from Westtown Boarding School, the well-known school of the Society of Friends, near Westchester, Pennsylvania, and then engaged in teaching school in his native county, later following this profession in Columbiana County, Ohio. Air. Lee sul^sequently took a commercial course and graduated from Crittenden's Commercial College, in Philadelphia: in 1867 he mor^ed to Barnes\dlle where he entered the First National Bank as its bookkeeper, and was later placed in the responsible position of cashier. His faithful and efficient service in this capacity continued through nine years, and

It was in 1878 that Mr. Lee first became connected with the BarncsviUe Enterprise, entering as its foreman and local editor, and it was soon realized hy himself and friends that this congenial work promised great success. In October, 1888, Mr. Lee and wife purchased the property and good will, and under their management the paper has gained in popularity until at present it is a welcome visitor in almost every home in the city. Mr. Lee has shown excellent business ability and is a writer of force and character; he is able to present the local news in most pleasing form, and vigorously champions all progressive and laudable enterprises. In his work he is ably assisted by the talented lady who is his wife.

In 1869 Mr. Lee Avas united in marriage with Octa M. Dove, who is a daughter of John and Maria Dove, both of whom are natives of Maryland, and were among the early settlers in Barnesville. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lee, namely: Laura D., who died in 1883, and Charles E., who resides with his ])arents. Roth our subject and wife are active members of the Methodist Church and are prominent in the social life of the city. For a number of years Mr. Lee has been a member of the Masonic fraternity, and belongs to Friendship Lodge, No. 89, F. & A. M., and Barnesville Chapter, No. 69, R. A. M.

CARLOS A. SMITH, proprietor of the United States Steam Laundry, which- is the finest establishment of its kind in Bellaire, ( )hio, has had 20 years' experience in the laundry business. He spent 12 years in the service of the Bellaire Steam Laundry, on Guernsey street, which was then owned by his father, George C. Smith, who taught him all the details of the business. Our subject first started into business for himself on the east side of the park, but afterward secured a lot on the corner of Noble street and Central avenue, and constructed his present plant in 1893. The building is strictly a modern one, constructed of brick and measures about 42 feet by 60 feet. It is a onestory building and is equipped with the latest and most improved machinery. In the rear part of the building are the engine and boiler, the former being of 10 H. P. and the latter 20 H. P. These furnish the power which operates all the machinery. Mr. Smith personally superintends all work, and having such facilities for turning out good work, he naturally secures the "lion's share" of the business. In addition, he has a fine suburban trade, embracing New Concord, Cameron, Barnesville, and other surrounding towns. He employs from 17 to 20 workmen and guarantees satisfaction to his customers.

Mr. Smith was born at Mount Zion, Belmont County, Ohio, in October, 1861. His father, George C. Smith, was an early resident of Belmont County, and was a blacksmith by trade, but the latter years of his life were spent in the laundry business, ownand operating, as he did, the Bellaire Steam Laundry. He died in September, 1901, aged 68 years. Our subject's mother is also a native of Belmont County, having been born near Jacobsburg. Her maiden name was Nancy Snively, and at this writing she resides in Bellaire. Besides our subject, she has two other sons and four daughters, as follows; F. B. of Cleveland; E. R.; Mrs. Alice Groves of Pennsylvania; Mrs. James Johnson, whose husband was formerly city marshal of Bellaire; Meda, and Margaret.

Mr. Smith has a fine modern residence at No. 3354 Guernsey street, which he purchased some time ago and remodeled. His marriage with Kate Schick, of Belmont County, resulted in the birth of three children, viz.: Beulah, Lily, and Carlos A., Jr.

In his political preferment our subject is a Democrat, and socially is a Mason, and a member of Black Prince Lodge, Knights of Pythias; D. O. K. K.; B. P. O. E., and Royal Arcanum. The family attend services at the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which they are members. Mr. Smith is uniformly popular in his community, and his straightforward business methods have brought success which he deserves. Having discharged his duties in a manner above criticism, he has acc[uired the approval not only of patrons, but of all who are in any way connected with his establishment. He is a member of the national, Ohio State and local laundrymen associations.

HON. CHARLES J. HOWARD, one of the leading attorneys of Belmont County, Ohio, who has ably represented the county in the State Legislature for two terms, and is now serving the city of Barnesville as attorney, is one of the brilliant young men of this locality wdio give promise of sustaining the proud reputation wdiich Ohio now holds in the Sisterhood of States.

Hon. Charles J. Howard was born in Barnesville, on March 26, 1862, a son of Albertus and Mary L. (Fry) How^ard, who had a family of three children born to them. Albertus How-ard was the youngest of a family of seven children and w-as a native of Maryland. His father moved to Belmont County and died when his son was about four years of age, leaving him amnle means which he used, later in life, in extensive tobacco operations, continuing the shipping of tobacco ever since.

Mr. Howard of this biography was afforded excellent educational advantages, his completion of the common and high school course, in Barnesville, being followed by his attendance at the Ohio State LTniversity. Selecting the law as a profession, he began his reading with Collins & Smith, and in 1883 entered the Cincinnati Law School, wdrere he graduated in the same year and located in his native city. His ability soon brought him into prominence, and in 1895 he \vas elected to the State Legislature, and in 1897 approval of his course was shown by a re-election. His record while in the House is one reflecting credit upon himself and his constituency. He has ably served the city as attorney for several terras and his prospects are bright for higher political honors. His interest in educational matters caused him to give them time and attention on the School Board, and all matters of public moment promising to benefit this locality are sure of his interest. Mr. Howard is both a Mason and a Knight of Pythias, in his fraternal connection, wliile in religious matters, he belongs to the Presbyterian denomination and is superintendent of the Sunda}^- school at the present time.

JOHN R. GOW, the efficient postmaster of Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio, is now' serving his second term in that office, and is well know'll throughout the city as a business man and enterprising citizen. Mr. Gow's parents have both been dead some years, and he has practically spent his life in Belmont County.

The early boyhood days of Mr. Gow were passed upon a farm near Martin's Ferry, Ohio, and it was in that city that he filled his first position as a boy in the new'spaper business. He was just 16 years of age when he was engaged in the office of the "Ohio Valley New's," and this position he held w'ith good results for a number of years, but in 1875-76 he removed to Bellaire, where, associated W'ith others, he conducted the "Bellaire Leader'' for four years, making it a bri ght, newsy sheet, reading matter well selected, editorials good, and local new'S admirably presented, Follow'ing this, he was elected city clerk and held the office 16 years, until he received the appointment of postmaster from President IMcKinley. He took charge of his duties at the Post Office in April, 1898, and was re-appointed in April, 1902, by President Roosevelt, to the satisfaction of the people of his community.

Our subject has one son, Robert C., who w'as educated at Bellaire and also spent two years at Kenyon College, Gambler, Ohio. He is now' 21 years of age and is employed by the Bellaire Bottle Company. Mr. Gow is identified w'ith many business enterprises of Bellaire, among which are tlae following: He is a director of the First National Bank of Bellaire, of the Enterprise Enamel Company, and of the Bellaire Bottle Works. He is a Presbyterian in religious faith, having been reared as such.

Socially Mr. Gow affiliates with the Masonic fraternity, having passed through all the chairs of the blue lodge and chapter of Bellaire, and of Hope Commandery, K. T., at St. Clairsville.

WILLIAM SIDDALL, the well-known master mechanic at the Bellaire Works of the National Steel Company, came to this city in Eebruary, 1899, from Duquesne, Pennsylvania, to accept this responsible position, and has charge of all the mechanical part of this large plant.

By birth Mr. Siddall is an Englishman, born in 1867 in Birmingham, the great industrial center, where his father was a skilled machinist and where he served the rigorous apprenticeship demanded in his native country. Seeing wider opportunities in America for skilled labor, Mr. Siddall at the age of 21 years, in 1888, crossed the Atlantic and located first at Cleveland. There and in other localities Mr. Siddall has continued in his line of work. Eor a time he was located at Columbus, Ohio, and there entered the State University, where he took a special course in mechanical engineering. After completing the same he accepted the position of chief engineer of the Duquesne Mills, from which he was promoted to that of assistant master mechanic, which he resigned in order to accept the still more desirable one which he so ably fills at the present time.

In 1899 Mr. Siddall was united in marriage with a daughter of the well-known contractor, J. W. Jones, of Bellaire, and they have one daughter, Ella. His fine home was completed in the spring of 1902 and is located at No. 4145 Harrison street, and is a model of convenience and the first of its style of architecture in the city.

Politically, Mr. Siddall is identified with the Republican party, while fraternally be belongs to a number of organizations, notably the Knights of Pythias of Cleveland, and since 1891 Newburg Masonic Lodge of Cleveland, Baker Chapter of Cleveland, and Scioto Consistory of Columbus. Mrs. Siddall is a member of the Methodist Church, and is a lady of social culture. Mr. Siddall stands high in his profession and commands both the esteem and confidence of his employers as well as of the employees.

WILLIAM A. WOODS, a prominent farmer and dairyman of Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, is not only one of its most substantial citizens, but also one of its most reliable and respected men. He is a native of Pease township, and was born in 1861, a son of John Woods, of whom extended mention is made in the sketch of James Woods.

Mr. Woods grew to manhood, attending the district schools and assisting in the farm work and also helping in busy times in the neighborhood. One year after marriage he worked for his father and then operated one of the latter's farms, according to arrangement, working on shares. Mr. Woods prospered in this way during 13 years and then bought his present fine farm which comprises r 30 acres, which is reputed to be the best producing farm of the township. It was formerly known as the Cochran farm. Mr. Woods has placed very fine improvements here and has erected a handsome residence of ten rooms and a substantial and commodious l)arn. For the past three years he has added dairying to his other interests, his place being known as the Upland Dairy, and its products are sold in Bridgeport and Martin's Ferry. Mr. Woods is a practical farmer and believes in handling only good stock, keeping Jersey, Durham and Holstein cattle. His large home farm is devoted to general farming and dairying interests, and he owns another farm, con-

John M. Hendekson

The marriage of Mr. Woods was to Lou Devault, a daughter of William Devault, an early settler of the county, and they have had ten children born to them - Harry and John, who died young; Myrtle, Robert Lee, Jesse, Blanche, Addie, Grace, Ellis and Erma. In politics Mr. Woods has been a life-long Democrat. His religious views are liberal, but he is ever ready to give his support to all educational and moral enterprises.

JOHN M. HENDERSON, a hardware merchant of Martin's Eerry, and one of the most industrious business men of the city, owns the finest hardware store in the county, and has numerous other business enterprises that occupy all his attention, among them his interest in the coal lands so abundant throughout the States of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Mr. Henderson is a son of Hugh and Margaret (Cowen) Henderson, natives of the Keystone State, and is himself a native of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, where he was born February 13, 1863. Hugh Henderson was a stationary engineer by vocation, and followed that occupation throughout most of his lifetime. Previous to taking this up, however, he was a miller and owned a mill in Pennsylvania for many years until after the Civil War, when in 1869 he removed to Ohio and settled on a farm three miles from Martin's Ferry. This farm has recently been sold to the Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad Company, who will open up the coal fields it contains. Hugh Henderson is now a retired business man and resides at the old Henderson homestead in Martin's Ferry, situated at the head of Walnut street. He has reached the advanced age of 76 years. For three score years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, has held all the offices accorded to laymen, and has been superintendent of the Sunday-school, etc. His wife died at the age of 66 )^ears, May 6, 1898, having been a lifelong member of the same Methodist Episcopal Church. She was one of the most devoted of church workers, always painstaking and thorough in all she did, and her deeds and efforts to help others will furnish pleasant, endearing memories to the many, who remember her still, for long years to come. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were the parents of six children, our subject being the fifth child. The others are as follows : Jennie (Mrs. William P. Green), who resides in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania ; Homer W., who was first a comemrcial traveler for the Standard Oil Company until 1887, when he started the hotel business in Pittsburg, which he still carries on with good sucess; J. B., who is engaged in the coke and coal business at Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania, having enjoyed a very successful career ; Emma, who is a resident of the home place with her father, is a very active church worker and possesses many of the qualities and noble traits of character which characterized the efficient services of her mother; and Hugh K., who lives in Pittshurg, where for 14 years he was in the coal business with Joseph Walton, and where he still is identified with the Pittsburg coal combine.

John M. Henderson, our subject, received training in the way of education in the commercial department of Frasher's College at Wheeling, West Virginia. He served an apprenticeship at the Martin's Ferry Stove Works, and \vas later a member of the Joseph Bell Stove Company, of Wheeling. He remained at that place until the foundry was moved to Muncie, Indiana, in 1890 and then he found employment in Martin's Ferry, in the establishment of the hardware business which he still conducts. His rooms are large and well supplied with a full line of jobbers' and builders' supplies, shelf hardware, brick, tile, etc., in fact everything that should be handled by a hardware merchant. The large patronage which he has and the* satisfactory manner in which he conducts the business speak for his knowledge of the principles that are best employed, and for his honesty and accommodation as well. The building which he occupies could not have a better location.

On October 22, 1892, Mr. Henderson was united in marriage with Ida M. Cope of Smithfield, Ohio, the only child of William and Mary A. Cope, who are members of the Society of Friends, residing at Smithfield. To the union of our subject and his wife have been born four children, but one of whom is now living. The record follows: William H..and Lewis, who died in infancy; Joseph Charles, whose death took place in 1900, at the age of four years; and Lewis B., now three years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson are devoted to the Methodist Episcoi)al Church, in which the former has been trustee for over 20 years.

The business life of Mr. Henderson has many different enterprises to claim his attention, among which are the following. He is now the president of the First National Bank at Dillonvale, Ohio, which was established in Fel)ruary, 1901. Fie is also connected with other Ijanking houses all along the Ohio Valley. Ide has coal stock, and an interest in the mines throughout the surrounding country ; in the last three years he has disposed of 80,000 acres of coal land in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In Belmont County he has bought in fee over 5,000 acres of coal lands and disposed of over 18,000 acres.

In politics Mr. Henderson is a member of the Republican party, and was elected in 1890 to the City Council of Martin's Ferry, serving as a member two terms and as president of the same for two terms. He is always active in politics and as a business man is classed among tire leaders in the Upper Ohio Valley. No matter how great the rush in business life, he has time for church, town or county whenever they desire his service or help.

WILLIAM WESLEY WOODS, who has engaged successfully in various lines of business, is at the present time engaged in bottling and marketing the famous Woods' Lithia Water. He was born, reared and has always lived in Pease township, Belmont

Janies Woods was born December 18, 1818, and died October 25, 1898. He was a son of William and Elizabeth (Harness) Woods. William Woods, grandfather of our subject, was the first white child born back of Pittsburg, on what is called Woods' Run, and died in the sixty-eighth year of his age in 1847. He was of Scotch-Irish parentage, and for some years of his life engaged in the butchering business. He and his bride, who was the daughter of a wealthy Virginia planter, ran away to be married. She died in 1889 at the age of ninety-three years while living at the home of her son, John. Both are buried in the cemetery at Mt. Pleasant, Ohio. They had eight children, three of whom, two sons named William and a daughter, died in childhood. Those who grew to maturity were: John, a record of whose life appears in the sketch of James Woods; James; George, who was born in 1820 and died in 1900; Robert, who resides in Pease township, and in September, 1902, celebrated his seventy-fifth birthday, and Elizalreth, widow of Daniel Gill, who resides at Gillespie, Ohio.

daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (McConnell) Coss, her mother being a sister of Francis McConnell, a prominent man of this section. Daniel Coss served in the War of 1812 and the war with Mexico, and was cook for the famous General Harrison. He conducted a store at Bridgeport and during the prevalence of cholera ministered to and helped bury many of the victims. During that time he remained away from his family so as not to expose them, and neither he nor they contracted the dread disease. He was one of the founders of Methodism in Belmont County. In 1866 he and seven brothers held a reunion, the youngest being seventy-three years old and the others past eighty-four years. Their picture was taken.

George Kern

and the one in possession of our subject is very highly prized by him. Of these brothers, Jacob, lived to reach the age of 103 years, dying at Chillicothe; and Adam for some years conducted a livery at Martin's Ferry.

James and Martha (Coss) Woods reared seven children, as follows: John, who was born at Mt. Pleasant and died at the age of two years; Elizabeth, wife of James Mc- Bride of Piper City, Illinois; Eleanor, of Martin's Eerry, widow of George Hobensack; Eliza Bell, who died in July, 1888, was the wife of Richard Veasy of Martin's Ferry; James Ross, who resides at Bridgeport, married Mary McKeever; George, who died aged two years, and William Wesley, our subject.

William Wesley Woods has engaged in many lines of business, and although he has owned the home farm the past few years, has never engaged in farming. He promoted a most successful oil company, realizing a handsome amount in dividends, then purchased the home farm of 113 acres, on 'which he has lived since 1897. The old home was the voting precinct during the time of Andrew Jackson, and some of the ballots have since been found. Mr. Woods has erected a comfortable home. He has been engaged for some hve years in bottling and shipping the famous Woods' Lithia Water, obtained from an unfailing spring on the farm. It is particularly a cure for kidney troubles, and the number of cures effected have been numerous. Of 100 cases of Bright's disease where the water was freely used by the patients, but one was lost. The water is placed in one-gallon bottles manufactured at Bellaire, and from 100 to 500 per day are shipped to different parts of the country, some going as far as Minnesota and Oklahoma. Mr. Woods devotes his entire attention to this business, leasing his farm to others.

James and Rebecca (Heller) Stewart. She came with her parents when a child to Martin's Ferry, where her father conducted a feed store until his death. Her mother still resides there. She is one of eight children, as follows: George, an attorney of Detroit, who held a responsible government position under President Cleveland; Kate, wife of Samuel Heaton, a blacksmith of Martin's Ferry; John, of Cameron, West Virginia; Thomas S., a carpenter of Pittsburg; Frank, of Pittsburg; Margaret Isola; Ella, wife of R. H. McKee, teller of the Bank of the Ohio Wiley at Wheeling, and Carrie, who is single and at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Woods have six children, as follows: James Russell, born December 6, 1881; Martha Jane, born August ii, 1885; Katie Belle, born April 23, 1888; Margaret Isola, born iMarch 21, 1891; William McKinley, born September 25, 1893, and Paul Edwin, born November 20, 1899. Politically, Mr. Woods is a Republican. He is a member of the A. O. U. W. of Bridgeport. Religiously he is a member of the M. E. Church, attending Lancaster Chapel, which is located on the farm, the site of which was donated by James Woods.

GEORGE KERN, who has been secretary of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company of Bellaire, Ohio, for the past three years, was born in the Rhine section of Germany, in 1837. In 1853, when still a lad, he immigrated to America, intent upon making a career for himself. A short time w'as spent in Baltimore, Maryland, and then the young man made his way to Wheeling, (West) Virginia, and two years later located in Benwood, where he followed the trade of baker until he came to Bellaire. in 1856, engaging in the same business until 1885.

Mr. Kern then embarked in a confectionery business and continued in the same until he accepted his present responsible position as secretary of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company. The marriage of Mr. Kern was to Cath- erine Roder, who was l)orn in Hesse, Germany, and a family of 12 children was born to them, eight of these survi\'e and all live in Bellaire, with the exception of one who resides at Richmond. Virginia. The handsome family residence is located on Belmont street in South Bellaire, where the family is much esteemed and has a wide circle of friends. In politics Mr. Kern is a Democrat and has voted that ticket since 1859. For 20 years he served his township as trustee and has been a member of the City Council of Bellaire for 10 years. Mr. Kern is a man of social instincts and belongs to many fraternal orders, inclnding the Odd Fellows. For many years he has been a leading member of the German Reformed Church.

John H. Hopkins, assistant secretary of the Belmont Savings & Loan Company, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1867, a son of James P. and Isabel (Nelson) Hopkins, the former of whom died in 1881. The family moved to Belmont County and to Bellaire in 1882. His mother was born 70 years ago in Bclnront County and our subject has five brothers and two sisters, namely; Nettie; N. S., a farmer and also a stock dealer; Rev. J. A., pastor of a Christian Church in Maryland; R. L., a farmer of Belmont County; Mrs. Mary Giffin, living near Bellaife; George E., in the insurance business at Bellaire; and Bert W., now clerk of Pultney township.

IMr. Hopkins took a course at Wheeling Business College after attending the Bellaire High School, and since 1887 has followed bookkeei)ing, being for a time with the United States Glass Company at Pittsburg. Since June, 1898, he has been connected with his ])resent company and he is also secretary of the Bellaire Water Works, the business of the two concerns being conducted in the same office. Mr. Hopkins was married to Edna C. Blackburn, a daughter of M. L. Blackburn, and has one son, hrancis Perry. His pleasant home is situated at Rose Hill, and both he and wife belong to the Christian Church. His fraternal connection is wdth Black Prince Lodge, Knights of Pythias.

incorporated March 5, 1885, the incorporators being; James B. Darrah, deceased; William J. McClain; John W. Coulson; Patrick Whealan ; David H. Darrah; John E. Robinson; and James E. Anderson, and these formed the hoard of directors. The present officers are; J. F. Anderson, president; John H. McGraw, vice-president; George Kern, secretary; James T. Kelley, treasurer; and John H. Hopkins, assistant secretary, the board of directors being formed by the above with David Walker and Charles A. Grella. The business is carried on in Bellaire at No. 3252 Union street.

E. G. KRAUTER, a well-known farmer of Pease township, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Southern Germany in 1856, and resided there until he reached the age of eighteen years. He then came on a visit to his uncle, William Burkle, who at that time was a butcher of Bridgeport, Ohio. Mr. Krauter engaged in the grocery business successfully at Martin's Ferry for a period of eight years, then sold out to Louis Scheehle. He has since given his attention to farming.

Mir. Krauter is residing on the old Van Pelt farm, which he purchased in 1887 from Hiram MIcCombs, the grantee of Margaret Blocher, who had purchased the property at the division of the Van Pelt estate. Jacob "Pan Pelt had located on the place as early as 1825, and the family owned a large tract of land in Pease township. He built the brick part of the house now occupied by our subject in 1850, to which the latter added and remodeled, making a very attractive home. The Van Pelts, who were very prominent in this county, have all passed away. Oliver Van Pelt, the last of the name in this county, was born in 1831 and died August 15, 1902, having always lived in Pease township. Of the old homestead Mr. Krauter has 66 acres, and during the past fourteen years has been engaged in the dairy business, wholesaling to a milkman at Martin's Ferry. His farm is well stocked and he makes a specialty of Jersey and Holstein cattle. He also pur- chased the James Wiley home of 150 acres in 1897. The Wiley farm he leases on shares. He grows fruit extensively and devotes the upper part of his farm to raising grain and stock.

Mr. Krauter was united in marriage with a daughter of Christ Hoffman of Ohio County, West Virginia, he being a retired butcher residing in Fulton. To this union | were born two daughters, Carrie and Minnie, aged 20 and 16 years, respectively. In politics our subject has always been a Republican. He has been a member of the board of education for the past twelve years, and for ten years has been commissioner of the Martin's Ferry & Colerain Pike. Fraternally he is a member of the National Union. Religiously he is a German Lutheran, but his family is Presbyterian.

THEODORE NEFF, one of the best known citizens and business men of Belmont County, Ohio, maintains an office at No. 3184 Union street, Bellaire, and conducts the largest fire, life, accident, tornado and windstorm insurance business in the county. He is a native of this county, having been born in York township, October 15, 1851, and is a son of George and Martha (Williams) Neff.

The Neff or Neife family originally came from Switzerland, locating in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Conrad Neff, grandfather of our subject, a native of IMaryland, with two brothers, John and George, started overland for Missouri in 1797. LTpon arriving at Wheeling, (West) Virginia, the wife of Conrad Neff was taken sick and died. John Neff proceeded to Missouri, but George remained with Conrad. With their families they crossed the river and located a few miles from Bridgeport, in Belmont County, where they entered land. The numerous representatives of the Neff family, so widely known in Belmont County, are all descended from these hardy pioneers. By his first wife Conrad Neff had two children. He formed a second union in 1802 or 1803 with Elizabeth Feeley, by whom he had ten children, among them being the father of our subject. Of the twelve children of whom he was father, all lived to reach the age of seventy years, and one of them, Benjamin, is now residing in Pultney township, being past eighty years of age.

George Neff was born three miles east of St. Clairsville in 1809, and died December 18, 1884. He followed the occupation of farming, and during most of his life resided near Captina Creek. He married Martha Williams, who was born in 1811 in one of the first houses built in Bridgeport, and died in September, 1878. She was a daughter of Ezra Williams, who was born in County Cork, Ireland, and came to this country at an early day.

Theodore Neff's boyhood days were spent in York township, where he lived until he passed the age of 35 years. In 1901 he purchased his present home farm, a part of the Jacob Rodefer farm, on the hill overlooking many miles of the Ohio Valley and the cities of Wheeling and Bellaire. Here he will soon have laid out and suitably set with trees a park to be known as Neff's Grandview Park, which will be a valuable addition to the city of Bellaire. A means of transportation will be provided to convey people up and down the bluff, and the view being one of unsurpassed beauty, it will be a very popular place. j\Ir. Neff owns five farms in Belmont County, and for many years has engaged in growing vegetables and raising thoroughbred stock and fowls of all kinds. He is a Democrat in politics, but has accepted of no offices ex^ cept assessor of York township, in which capacity he served two terms. He and his son, Edney, are members of Ionic Lodge, No. 438, F. & A. IM. On his farm is located an abundance of splendid molding sand, for the removal and exportation of which the Belmont Sand Company was organized. The pits contain sands of every grade, for heavy and light molding, building, and for plastering and bricklaying. The company controls the large pits on

Mr. Neff's farm and otheis in the county, and supply sand for the local market and for many large corporations in other parts of the country, including the Pennsylvania Railroad. At the present time about lOO tons per day are taken from the pits and loaded upon cars. In the near future upto-date machinery, probably electrical, will be installed to reduce to a minimum the expense of loading and digging. Ochre is also found conveniently and will later be developed. Mr. Neff has been the prime mover in various business enterprises, notable among which is the Enterprise Enamel Company, of which he purchased the first shares of stock.

Five different business concerns have their oftice and headquarters at No. 3184 Union street, the office of Mr. Neff. Following is a brief sketch of each:

The Belmont Electric Light & Power Company was organized in 1899 by Theodore Neff, J. B. Watt, John T. Flynn, J. A. Green and Thomas E. Shelly. J. A. Green is president: H. A. Neff, secretary and manager, and five of the organizers are directors. The plant is located on Monroe street, between 35th and 36th streets, and supplies light and power for the city.

The Neff Real Estate & Investment Company was organized and chartered under the laws of Ohio in the spring of 1902 by Theodore Neff, John W. NefT, Harry A. Neff, Thomas B. McKelvey and J. O. Mc- Kelvey, these men constituting the board of directors. The officers are: T. B. McKelvey, president; Harry A. Neff, secretary, and E. D. Neff, treasurer. An extensive business has been done toward improving the city and suburbs, especially at Shadyside, where free excursions are run by the company and many lots have been sold for residence and speculative purposes. The prospects of the suburb for a home site are bright.

The Enterprise Telephone Company has over sixty 'phones in use, besides centrals, accommodating a large number of farms and business houses. The suburban line operates through St. Joe, McClainsville, Neff's siding, Bald Knob, etc., with central at Valonia and branches to Dillie's Bottom, and central at Key, with branches among farmers. It has central exchange with the National and Ohio Valley companies at Bellaire. Robert McKelvey is president; William Unterzuber, vice-president; Franklin Neff, secretary, and J. O. McKelvey, treasurer. Among the directors are William Ramsey, Samuel White, John W. Neff, Alexander Neff and Dr. Korell of Key.

The Eastern Ohio Milling Company was recently incorporated for the purpose of milling, dealing in feed and the wholesale grocery business. The officers are: George O. Robinson, president; Morris Elikan, vicepresident, and J. P. Clutter, secretary and treasurer. The office will be at the old Ault Mill, which will be remodeled and equipped. The directors of the company incude Alexander Neff and H. A. Neff.

united in marriage with Nancy J. McKelvey of Mead township, and they have three children, namely, Edney D., aged 22 years, who has for the past five years engaged in the insurance business with his father; Jacob H., who is 18 years old and lives at home, and Carrie L., aged 16 years. Religiously the family attends the U. P. Church.

JULIUS H. HAYS, superintendent of the carpenter and construction gang at the Bellaire plant of the National Steel Company for the past twelve years, is one of the oldest employees of the plant, his term of service ranking second. Mr. Hays is highly esteemed by his employers for his efficiency and long years of faithful attachment to their interests.

Julius H. Hays was born in 1852 in Germany, and alone and dependent upon his own resources he came to America at the age of 15 years. In Germany his father operated a large wind-power flouring mill.

Col. James F. Charlesworth

but the youth believed he could better his condition in a new country. A sister, Mulder, resides in Texas. Being willing, energetic and pleasant in manner, he soon secured employment in New York as clerk in a store at $8 a month and continued there for two years, and then went to Wheeling, West Virginia. There he learned the carpenter trade with William Bitmeyer, and followed the same in Wheeling, later being one of the builders of the Aetna Standard Mill. In 1884 he came to Bellaire and began work as a journeyman carpenter with his present employers, and by careful and thorough work gained his promotion in 1890 to the position of superintendent of all of the carpentering and construction of the heavy rigging of the steel works with a force of from 40 to 50 men under his charge. During his seventeen years' connection with this plant Mr. Hays has seen many changes. When he came here in 1884 three carpenters only were required where now fourteen, with helpers, are needed, and the mules which used to pull the cars have been replaced by twelve locomotives. The single blast furnace, where 60 tons of pig-iron was a large day's work, has been superseded by furnaces with a capacity of 350 tons.

Mr. Hays has a beautiful home at No. 4754 Jefferson street, containing eight apartments and surrounded by a fine lawn. The house was erected by him in 1888. He has a most interesting famil3^ which is well and favorably known in the city. His marriage was to Carrie Backer, daughter of Peter Backer, who came to Wheeling 52 years ago from Germany and was engaged for 28 years at the La Belle coal mine. Mr. Backer at the age of 81 years is still vigorous and but lately returned from an enjoyable visit to his native land. The five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hays were: Anna, at home; Alberta, the wife of Augustus Stellars, of the Novelty Stamping Compan}^ John, a clerk and assistant mechanical engineer at the steel works; Nellie, a stenographer in the office of

In political sentiment Mr. Hays is an ardent Republican, and he is fraternally connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. In his religious views he is very liberal, seeing good in every denomination, but his family attend the Episcopal Church, and this he liberally assists. From the position of a poor German lad without friends, Mr. Hays has made his own way in the world and now possesses ample means, many friends and is well deserving the high esteem in which he is held by those who know him best.

COL. JAMES F. CHARLESWORTH, who has attained a high degree of success as an attorney-at-law of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was born in that city, November 25, 1826, and is a son of Richard and Jane (Porter) Charlesworth. His father was one of the early business men of St. Clairsville, having come to Belmont County from Baltimore, Maryland, in 1820.

James F. Charlesworth was educated at Granville College, where he completed the course in 1844, and then engaged in business with his father. At the outbreak of the war with Mexico, he and his younger brother, Richard W., left home and enlisted in Company H, First Regiment Mounted Rifles, now the 3rd U. S. Cavalry. They saw active service in Mexico under Gen. Winfield Scott, and Colonel Charlesworth was wounded at Contreras. The colonel of his regiment performed the functions of mayor of the City of Mexico after the entrance of the United States troops, and the regiment was detailed for police duty for a period of nine months, quitting the city after the declaration of peace. Shortly after the war, Mr. Charlesworth returned to St. Clairsville, and entered upon the study of law under the supervision of General Weir. After his admission to the bar, in 1851. he success- 1 fully engaged in practice until 1854. when he was elected to the office of auditor of Belmont County, and served as such for a term of two vears.. In 1857, he became proprietor and editor of the Independent Republican, a paper which he published until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he felt that duty to his country called him to the field. Tde raised the first three years' company entered on the records of the adjutant general, and of this was commissionefl captain, Ji-dy 12, 1861. His previous military service made him of exceptional value to the country at this time. He was active in the field, and in the fall of 1861 received a slight wound at Alleghany Summit, Virginia. His ability as a soldier and leader attracted the attention of his superior officers, and he was rewarded by promotion as major of his regiment. May 16, 1862. On June 8th, of the same year, he was severely wounded at the battle of Cross Keys, a minnie ball entering the abdomen, and coming out about two inches from the spinal column. On July 30, 1862, he was promoted to be lieutenant-colonel, and on May 18, 1863. resigned because of jdiysical disability, further service being im- ])ossihle. His resignation received the following indorsement from Brig.-Gen. N. C. Mc- Lean, at the headquarters of the First Division, iith Army Cor])s, at Brooks Station, May 13, 1863: "Approved and respectfully forwarded to Lieut-Col. Charlesworth ; I approve as I jiersonally know him to be disabled by an honorable wound." Colonel Charlesworth still ]wssesses the ball which passed through his body, and was found where he fell. He also has in his possession the vest then worn by him, showing the direction the ball took. These relics he treasures as mementoes of honornhle service.

Upon his return home Colonel Charlesworth entered upon his duties as clerk of Belmont County, to which office he had been elected while in the service. In 1864, he served as colonel of the ist Regiment, Belmont County Militia. On the expiration of his term as clerk, he was appointed master commissioner of the Court of Common Pleas, and served in I'wt capacity for nine years. During the troubles incident to the construction of the Central Ohio Railroad, now the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, he was appointed and commissioned a captain, to organize the celebrated Washington Guards, which were on duty about four years. He also rendered valuable service to St. Clairsville during the county seat contest with Bellaire, and he and his associates succeeded in having the Legislature make a]:>propriatibns for the present magnificent county building. He is a Democrat, in politics, and has been an enthusiastic worker for party success. He was a delegate to the convention which nominated James E. Campbell for governor; he has served as vice-president of the Democratic State Central Committee. and as trustee of the Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Home. His fraternal associations are with Lodge No. 16, F. & A. M. ; Chapter No. 17, R. A. M.; and Hope Commandery. No. 26, K. T. He is a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was formerly commander of the Belmont County Battalion.

J. R. ANDERSON, superintendent of the public schools of Belmont County, Ohio, a man of scholarly attainments and personal popularity, is an Ohio product, born at Bellaire in 1863, a son of Isaac C. and Mahala J. (Lashley) Anderson, the latter of whom belongs to an old county family which located southeast of the city of Bellaire as early as 1830.

The Andersons were natives of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and there Isaac C. Anderson was born 76 years ago. A notal)le occasion was the celebration of the golden wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac C. Anderson, which took place at the family residence. No. 612 Vine street, Bellaire, in October, 1901. Mr. Anderson is a veteran of the Civil War, and he and his estimable wife are the central figures in a large family of children, namely: William, who is engaged in business in connection with the Bellaire Foundry & Machine Company; Mrs. P. R. Myers, who resides at Quincy, Illinois; Mrs. N. J. Mc- Donald, who resides in Bellaire; Newton, who is also connected with the Bellaire Foundry; J. Albert, who resides at South Bend, Indiana; J. R., who is the subject of this review; Mrs. Maria J. Simpson, who lives in Bellaire; Mrs. O. C. Henry, who is a resident of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and Charles, who is associated with the subject of this sketch in the ownership of the Bellaire Foundry 8c Machine Company plant.

The primary education of Superintendent Anderson was obtained in the public schools of Bellaire, and his degree of M. A. was secured after doing collegiate work at Bethany, W est Virginia. Mr. Anderson's services were immediately secured in the public schools of his native city, and for one year he was principal of the Second Ward school and for ten years was assistant principal of the Central building, in 1898 becoming superintendent, filling the position with the same efficiency which has marked his whole professional career, bringing the schools to a high standard.

The Bellaire Foundry & Machine Company, with which enterprise our subject is financially connected, was established in 1895 by Charles and J. R. Anderson and Clarence Simpson, the last named withdrawing after three years. The business is now the propertv of the Anderson brothers and is located at the corner of 33rd and Hamilton streets, where a large business is done, requiring the aid of a number of skilled foundrymen and machinists. It is one of the successful industries of Bellaire.

The marriage of Prof. J. R. Anderson was to a daughter of John Wood, who came some thirty years ago to Bellaire. and for thirty years has been one of the leading contracting carpenters in this vicinity. Mr. and Mrs. Wood reside at Shadvside. The seven children born to our subject and wife were as follows: Edward, Clarence, Walter, Robert, Bertie, Ethel and Raymond. Our subject was reared to believe implicitly in the principles of the Republican party, of which his father has been an adherent from its organization, and is active in its interests. Fraternally he is associated with the Ionic Lodge, F. & A. M., of Bellaire, the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows. The Christian Church has long been the religious body with which both the Anderson and Wood families have been identified, and our subject is one of its deacons and liberal supporters. His standing as teacher and citizen is unquestioned, and his personal attributes have brought to him a wide circle of friends.

ROBERT McDonald, a competent foreman to the superintendent of the converting and blooming mill of the National Steel Works at Bellaire, Ohio, is a veteran in the steel business, having done his first work in that line in 1875. At that time he entered the Edgar Thompson Steel Works, a part of the Carnegie plant, and has labored faithfully in developing the steel industry ever since. He spent nine years in the Duquesne mill, resigning his situation there to accept his present position at Bellaire, where he located in April, 1898. From too to 200 men are emplo5'ed in the departments under his charge, and as Mr. IMcDonald has worked his way through all the lower and intermediate departments, he is well fitted to fulfill the duties devolved upon him.

Our subject is a native of Pennsylvania and has one brother, J. H. IMcDonald, who is superintendent of the department at the steel works of which the sul^ject of this sketch is foreman. The residence of Air. IMcDonald is at No. 4269 Noble street. Three years ago he was called upon to mourn the death of his wife, who was a Kentucky lady. Five children blessed their union. The eldest daughter, Bertha, who is eighteen years old, manages the home for her father and looks after the younger children, Clifford, Flora and Esther, whose ages are, respectively, thirteen, eleven and eight years. Foster, the eldest son, who is twenty years old, is employed at the steel works.

Mr. McDonald is a faithful adherent to the Republican party, and uses both his vote and his influence to advance its interests. In fraternal organizations he is allied with the Masons, being a member of both blue lodge and the chapter of Bellaire. In his religious opinions he favors the Presbyterian Church, but his children prefer to attend the United Presbyterian.

R. SMILEY NELSON, proprietor of the United States Dairy, conducts the leading business in that line in Bellaire, Ohio. He was born in Pultney township in 1856, is a son of Matthew G. and Mary Ann (Keyser) Nelson, and grandson of Robert and Mary (McGregor) Nelson.

Robert Nelson was a native of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and located in Belmont County in 1812, purchasing at that time a 160-acre farm in section 25, Pultney township. He cleared this farm and upon it followed agricultural pursuits up to the time of his death, March 5, 1857. He was 69 years and six months old at the time of his death. His wife survived him for many years, and only two of her children lived to witness her death, which occurred November 21, 1881, she being in her 86th year. Eight children were born to her and her husband, namely, John, Robert, Elizabeth, Matthew G.. Thomas, Alexander, Benjamin Franklin and Margaret.

John Nelson was born in 1819, and died in 1902 in Illinois. Robert resides on the old home farm in Pultney township. He was born October 8, 1822, and married in 1849 Emeline Cummings, a daughter of Joseph and Anne (Prescott) Cummings. His wife was a native of Kennebec County, Maine, born in 1825. They have five children, as follows: Helen, wife of Warren Holgate, a ranchman of Manhattan, Montana; Annie; Edwin, a merchant in the State of Maine; Frank, who resides in Pultney township, and Margaret, wife of Rev. Ashbel Lane of Fremont, Ohio.

Matthew G. Nelson, the father of our subject, was born January 28, 1827, in Pultney township. He followed farming and died in 1871, but two months before his 45th birthday. His widow is still living, being now 79 years old. She resides with our subject. Five children were born to her and her husband. Of these, two, Ella and William, died young. One daughter, Lizzie, resides in Pultney township with our subject, while Frank K., our subject's only brother, has a family and resides on Wheeling Island, being an employee of the Aetna Standard Mill

We now take up the Ife or our subject, R. Smiley Nelson. He was reared on his father's farm in Pultney township, and during his youth he attended Rock Hill School. He followed in the footsteps of the grandfather and father and confined himself to agricultural pursuits until about eight years ago. At that time he believed he saw a good business opening, and his effort during the intervening years have proved the correctness of his judgment.

He established the United States Dairy at Bellaire and does a thriving business in that prosperous city. He runs two wagons, which cover regular routes daily, and about 100 galr

Roger Ashton

Ions of milk and cream are required to supply regular customers. IMr. Nelson keeps 40 good milch cows, many of them thoroughbreds - Jersey, Holstein and Durham breeds. The constant attention of four men is required to handle the business, which is conducted on a well-paying basis.

Mr. Nelson has a finely improved farm. His residence is large and comfortable, while many other convenient buildings are found on his place.

His marriage with Cordelia H. Robinson resulted in the birth of three daughters and one son. The latter, John G., drives one of his father's milk wagons. The other children Gara, Estella and Rachel, are also at home. Politically. Mr. Nelson is a stanch Republican. He is public spirited and charitable. He is a member of Rock Hill Presbyterian Church.

ROGER ASHTON, a prominent citizen of Martin's Eerry, councilman from the Eirst Ward, superintendent of local mines, and a stockholder in the German Bank, was born in jMontgomeryshire, Wales, September ii, 1845.

The parents of Mr. Ashton were John and Mary (Clayton) Ashton, rvho lived in WHles all of their lives. John Ashton was a wool carder by trade and followed the occupation through life. He lived to be over 82 years of age, surviving his wife many years, her death occurring at the age of 65 years. Both parents were members of the Calvinistic Alethodist Church. They were the parents of ten children, the five survivors being the following; John, Avho is a merchant in Wales ; Richard, who is a miner in Wales ; Thomas, Avho resides in Hocking Valley, Perry County. Ohio; William, who resides at Little Ealls, New York; the fifth being Roger, of this biography. The members of the family who have passed away are ; Edward, who died at the age of 23 ; Elizabeth, who lived to the age of 60; Benjamin, who died when 23 ; David, who died at the age of 30; and Mary Ann, who died when nine klr. Ashton had absolutely no early educational advantages, his first opportunity for attending school presenting itself when he was 23 years of age. At that time he was even ignorant of the letters of the alphabet, but he made excellent use of his six months at school, made such rapid progress, especially in mathematics, that his knowledge surpassed that of his teacher. After this period of schooling was passed he began business as a coal weigher, following that occupation for the succeeding nine years, at which time he came to the United States. ]Mr. Ashton began his business career in this country as a miner, digging coal in the very mines which are now being operated under his superintendence. They are located within the corporate limits of Martin's Eerry, and are owned by the American Sheet Steel Company. It is a testimonial to the ability and efficiency of ]\Ir. Ashton that he has risen from one of the most subordinate positions to his present one of responsibility, and has so satisfactorily filled the same for the past fifteen years. The high esteem in which he is held by the company is well deserved and very gratifying.

The first marriaee of IMr. Ashton was in his native land to iMargaret Evans, who died IMarch 19, i8gi, at the age of 42 years. A family of 12 children was born to this union, all of whom died in infancy with the exception of David R., who is a tin worker, unmarried, and a resident of Martin's Eerry. The second marriage of IMr. Ashton was on August 3. 1891, to Margaret Meredith, a native of Wales, who came to America in 1889, ^ daughter of Gwenllyn iMeredith. The children born to this union were as follows; Roger; Edith, who died at the age of seven months; IMarv; John, who died at the age of one year; and Margaret. Mr. Ashton has accumulated ample means, and owns three houses and one valuable lot within the corporate limits. He has taken an active part in the political life of the community and his election as councilman I on April 7, 1902, was not only a triumph for the Republican ticket, l)iit also a testimonial to his personal po])iilarity as his majority was nine over three to one against his opponent, h'raternally Mr. Ashton belongs to the Elks.

.V review of the career of Mr. Ashton gives an excellent illustration of the success which awaits those who come to America resolved to live a life of industry, to become integral parts of this great Nation and become its useful citizens. At tbe same time it may be noted that Mr. Ashton is a worthy representative of a country whose sturdy sons have contributed, in no small degree, to the prosperity of many sections of their adopted land.

-A.. O. MELLOTT, ex-mayor of Bellaire and senior member of the firm of Mellott & Son, undertakers and furniture dealers, owns the finest establishment of its kind in Bellaire and for many years has been one of the most successful merchants of that place. -About 30 years ago he purchased the store of the Marietta Chair Company, which at that time was entirely new, having just been rebuilt after a destructive fire. Mr. Mellott restocked tbe building and added the undertaking department.

The building in wbicb bis business is conducted is located on the corner of 33rd and Belmont streets, is 40 by 120 feet and is two stories bigh. The undertaking parlors are located on the second floor and first-class work in this line is guaranteed by Mr. Mellott, wbo is an expert embalmer. The furniture department contains a complete variety of up-to-date furniture at moderate prices, and the cpiality of goods is not surpassed anywhere in the city.

Mr. Mellott was born in Ricbland townsbip, near Glencoe, in September, 1830. His father. William ATellott, was a native of Eastern Pennsylv.'ufia, and the vear t8oo marks the date of his birth. About 1804 he was brought to Belmont Count^x Ohio, by his father, John ATellott, who located the first year on a tract now known as the Dixon farm. Later, he removed to the farm near Glencoe, which he purchased, and which is still in the possession of The family, being, at the present' time, owned by James A'lellott, a brother to our subject. The grandfather and father both followed farming as an avocation, and the former died in Monroe County when about 72 years of age. The latter died in 1885 at the great age of four score years and five. Both were stanch Democrats in politics.

The mother of our subject was, before marriage, a Aliss Ault, and was also a native of the Keystone State. She is also deceased. Her father, Frederick Ault, moved to Belmont County between 1820 and 1825, and two brothers, Frederick and George, reside near Belmont. Adr. Adellott has four brothers and one sister, as follows: Frederick, a farmer in Adonroe County, Ohio; Isaac, a farmer of Mead township, Belmont County, Ohio; Sarah, who married a .Mr. Adanchester, a farmer and railroad man of Adead township; David, a farmer of York township; and James, who resides on the home farm near Glencoe.

The subject of this biography was educated in the schools of Richland township and in the Barnesville Academy, and for the following 18 years he engaged in teaching school; then he followed agricultural pursuits for about five years. In 1867 he removed to Bellaire, and his interests have been identified with that city ever since. He operated a general merchandise store on Union street and carried on a successful business there for three years. Disposing of his business at a fair profit, he embarked in the manufacturing business with the Bellaire Stamping Company, being one of the organizers of the same, also serving as director. Then followed a prosperous period, during which he served as mayor, and as justice of the peace, previous to engaging in the vast business enterprise which still claims his attention.

Myers, a distinguished citizen of Mead township, and she was a descendant of one of the oldest families of Belmont County. Mrs. Mellott was born in 1837 and passed to her final rest in February, 1897. Three children were born to our subject and wife. Mfilliam D., the eldest son, is the junior member of the firm of Mellott & Son, having been admitted into the business in 1884. Alice, the only daughter, married Aaron Smalley, of Indianapolis, Indiana. James F., the youngest son of our subject, is an expert accountant and bookkeeper and for the past 14 years has served as bookkeeper of the First National Bank of Bellaire. He is married and resides in that city. The family favor the Methodist Episcopal Church.

In all respects Air. Alellott is a useful ,4ud influential member of society. Although a business man, he is well informed on all topics of general interest. As a friend he is highly valued, for he is ever ready with counsel, help and encouragement. His success has come from steady purpose and constant industry, and he justly merits the position of true worth and esteem which he has attained. He has a fine residence on the corner of Harrison and 32nd streets.

Air. Alellott was one of the incorporators of the First National Bank of Bellaire, Ohio, and has been a director in that institution since its organization.

CLARENCE E. BAUER, a director of the Novelty Stamping Company and for the past eight years superintendent of the stamping department of this successful plant, has been a resident of Bellaire since 1873, in which city he was educated.

The birth of Air. Bauer occurred in 1862 in Virginia, and during his early youth with hjs parents he resided at different towns in the Ohio Valley. His family and kindred are not very numerous, but he has two brothers and one sister residing at Bellaire. Since 1874 he has been interested in the stamping business, having at that date entered the employ of the old Bellaire Stamping Works, to which the Novelty plant succeeded. The stamping department, wdiich is immediately under his supervision, is one of the most important in the business, and forty men and a large amount of valuable machinery is in his charge, it being his business to see that they work in unison, with the greatest amount of accuracy and perfection, and with the least amount of expense. To successfully do this requires a man of certain talents, and these Air. Bauer possesses.

The family resides at No. 3628 Harrison street. His political affiliation is with the Republican party, although merely as a supporter, not as an office seeker. He is justly regarded as one of the enterprising business men of the city, and the plant with which he is associated is widely known for its excellent products.

ROBERT L. HENDERSON, a photographer b_v profession, is said to be the best artist in Bellaire, Ohio. Air. Henderson was born in 1869 in the city which is still his home, and he is a son of Robert and Hester J. (Sellers) Henderson. His father was a saddler by trade prior to his removal from Richmond, Virginia. After locating in Ohio, however, he followed railroad life, being employed in the transportation department of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad at Bellaire. He died in 1895, at the early age of 42 years.

The mother of our subject is still living, being at the present time a resident of Clarksburg, AVest A'irginia. She was born in Vdieeling, now AAVst Wrginia, and is a daughter of V. P. Sellers. Her father removed from West Afirginia to Bellaire, Ohio, where he conducted a jewelry store.

Air. Henderson is the eldest of a family of five children; the others are: Perry, of Parkersburg, AA'^est A^irginia: Pearl (Ash); Edward. a theatrical man, who makes his home in AA^heeling when not on the road; and

Cora, who is still at home. Our subject was educated iu the public schools of Bellaire and iu his youth learned the j)hotographer's trade with Mr. Sellers, an uncle, who now conducts a portable gallery. J:ie began business on his own behalf in 1896 and has been very successful. His gallery is located at No. 3161 Union street, just north of the (i!oI:)c Ilot'-d, where he is pleased to see all ])atrons. His photographs show the touch of an artist and give excellent satisfaction.

Emma Coffman, of Bellaire, became the wife of our subject, and they have two children, Paul and Mildred. Mrs. T-Ienderson's home was formerly in Centreville, Ohio, and the family have a pleasant cottage on Gravel Hill. In politics our subject is outspoken and true in his allegiance to the Republican party, and in fraternal circles he belongs to the Knights of Pythias and to the K. O. T. M. The family embrace the religion of the Christian Church and have a large number of friends. Mr. Henderson, wide awake to the interests of his community, is an upright, consistent and reliable citizen.

JAMIES M. WEEKS, president of the C. L. Dorer Foundry Company, located on Water street, north of 26th, is also manager of the National Glass Works, located on 2 1st and Union streets, the latter being owned by T. A. Rodefer.

The birth of Mr. Weeks took place in 1866, in Ohio County, West Virginia, and he was brought to Belmont County, Ohio, in youth, by his parents, William and Arminta (Higgs) Weeks, the former of whom is a miller by trade and has followed that business for many years. William Weeks was born 65 years ago in the Shenandoah Valley and married in Virginia, rearing a family of four sons and three daughters: James M.,

James M. Weeks, of this sketch, was reared near Bellaire and had but limited school advantages, it being necessary for him to leave school early in order to become an earning factor in the family. Pie first learned the glass business, working his way through all the various departments and becoming thoroughly acquainted with every detail. Since February i, 1893, he has been connected with the National Glass Works, and for the past three years has had entire charge of the manfacturing part of the plant, employing 150 men and boys. They turn out lamp chimneys, lantern globes, vault lights, sky lights and prismatic window lights, the output being in demand all over the country. The C. L. Dorer Foundry Company was established and incorporated in the winter of 1900-01, by J. M. Weeks, C. L. Dorer, Henry Vaupel, Sebastian Wimmer, and Clarence Simpson, the last named having charge of the business as general manager. The other officers are: C. L. Dorer, secretary and treasurer; S. Wimmer, vice-president, and our subject, president. This new and prosperous enterprise has enjoyed encourag - ing patronage and employs some 12 skilled mechanics, and prospects are that the number will soon be increased, as large contracts have been secured. The business is that of a general line of foundry work, a specialty being made of glass-mold castings. In addition to the great business interests which he has shown such ability to manage, Mr. Weeks is largxlv interested in Western lands, including mining property.

The marriage of our subject was to Della Lafferty, a native of Belmont County, and the pleasant family residence is at No. 2009 Belmont street. In politics Mr. Weeks favors the Prohibition party, while in religious connection he belongs to the South Bellaire Methodist Church. In our subject we find a typical representative of a self-made man, and he possesses the poise, the clear-headed shrewdness of one who has had to battle for his rights, and the confidence of one who has been successful. He has shown his ability in directing business affairs and in managing large forces of men, and takes a leading position in the business world of Bellaire. He is much assisted by his happy faculty of making friends and is regarded with esteem by those who know him either publicly or socially.

LOUIS LINCOLN SCHEEHLE, clerk of the courts of Belmont County, and an esteemed and well-known citizen of Martin's Ferry, was born in Wheeling, West Virginia, June 26, 1864, being a son of Philip G. and Elizabeth ( Hardman) Scheehle, both of whom were born in Germany.

Philip G. Scheehle came to the United States. He was a contractor and builder of note ; the Moundsville Penitentiary, the Wheeling Post Office, and many other imposing buildings stand to testify to his constructive ability. In Martin's Ferry he erected the Buckeye glass house and at Morgantown, West Virginia, he built the main college structure. Mr. Scheehle was well and favorably known through several States as a contractor of reliability. He was a man of ample means, of generous disposition and good citizenship. He belonged to the Lutheran Church. His death occurred at the age of 66 years. His wife died at the age of 64 years. They had a family of 12 children.

Louis Lincoln Scheehle was the seventh member of his parents' family and the only one who resides in the State of Ohio. His education was secured in the schools of Wheeling and in Frasher's Business College in that city. After finishing his attendance at school, he accepted a clerkship in a Wheeling grocery store and continued in the service of one employer for seven years. At the age of 21 he located in Martin's Ferry and put into practice the knowledge which his seven years had brought him. He embarked in the grocery business and this he has continued at the same place ever since.

managing it with excellent ability, and furnishing to the people of Martin's Ferry a store second to none. Mr. Scheehle has been a very successful investor in real estate and owns much valuable property. His attractive residence on 5th street is one of the handsomest and most elegantly appointed in the city. It IS his intention to still farther extend his business, which is now the largest in the county, by providing still larger and more modern quarters and adding to his now extensive stock everything to be found in grocery establishments in any part of the world.

In almost all of the prominent business enterprises of Martin's Ferry he has taken a leading part. For two terms he was a member of the board of the electric light plant. He now is president of the Retail Grocer's Association of Martin's Ferry, and his interest in educational matters has been shown by his serving two terms on the School Board, one term as its president. For many years he has been the treasurer of the German Lutheran Church. He is regarded as one of the city's most substantial and reliable men. His reputation as a capitalist is founded upon ample means and larg;e real estate holdings. In 1901 he was elected clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, on the Republican ticket.

On September 14, 1890, Mr. Scheehle was married to Louisa J.. daughter of the late Charles Seabright, and three children have been born to this union, namely : Elsie, Harold G. and Edward R. The religious connection of the family is with the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Scheehle is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and the Junior Order of United American Mechanics of Martin's Ferry.

THOMAS J. MEARS, formerly a prominent manufacturer of Martin's Ferry, now deceased, was born in Wellsville, Ohio, on August 9, 1848, being a son of Thomas and Jane (Callahan) Mears. His paternal grandparents were Mark and Judith (Dunn) Mears,

Thomas Hears, the father of the late Thomas J., was born in Ireland and came to America in 1836, settling at Montreal, Canada. Two years later he came to the United States and followed his trade of road contracting. In 1839 he removed to Defiance, Ohio, and secured the contract for digging a part of the Maumee Canal, where he was engaged for two years. His next work was at Wellsville, Ohio, where he graded two miles of the Cleveland & Pittsburg Railroad from that place to Yellow Creek, and also graded the road through Martin's Ferry. Another of his contracts was the turnpike road from Martin's Ferry to Mount Pleasant, Ohio. He died while engaged on the contract for railroad construction through Martin's Ferry. His widow survived until April ii, 1902, dying when almost 84 years of age. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hears, viz., Thomas J., Catherine (Mrs. Charles Burns), of Bellaire, Ohio; Mary, who for the past 32 years has been one of the Sisters of the Visitation of Abingdon, Virginia, and Elizabeth, who resides at the old home in Martin's Ferry.

The late Thomas J. Hears was educated in Martin's Ferry and learned the cooper's trade, which he followed for some ten years. In 1873 started a small factory in company with William Houge, George Watson and John Bowen, but this enterprise was not successful. In the following January, under other conditions, he again embarked in business in association with D. Park, Jr., on the site of the present works. In 1878 the plant was destroyed by fire, but business had been so prosperous that the factory was immediately rebuilt. On the death of Mr. Park in 1881, Mr. Hears became the sole proprietor and so continued until his own demise, on December 26, 1897, aged 49 years, 4 months and 18 days. His establishment was one of the most extensive plants for the manufacture of casks, barrels, kegs and boxes in the Upper Ohio Valley, and its prosperous development was a most eloc^uent commentary upon the business ability of its founder. Mr. Hears had other important business interests. He was one of the organizers of the Northwood Glass Works and a director of the same; a stockholder in the Crystal Glass Company of Bridgeport; also in the Junction Iron Works at Mingo Junction, and the Elson Glass Works. In addition he managed a factory at Bellaire in connection with a factory at Martin's Ferry and owned a general store in the latter city, located on Washington street. His investments in Martin's Ferry were many and important, and he was justly regarded as one of the notably successful men of the community. In his death the city lost one of her most enterprising citizens, one who was ever on the alert to build up the city, especially in the line of manufacturing. He was a stanch Democrat, but took no active part in politics, although he served in the City Council and as township clerk. He was a consistent member of the Roman Catholic Church at Wheeling.

On February 16, 1882, Mr. Hears was married to Emma Watson, daughter of William S. and Delilah H. (Williams) Watson, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania. By trade William S. Watson was a nailer and made his home in Wheeling, (West) Virginia, prior to his marriage. About 1850 he moved to Martin's Ferry, having married in 1849, lived there until his death, which took place in May, 1898, at the age of 75 years. The mother of Mrs. Hears was born in August, 1831, and died December 3, 1879. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Hears were Nathan and Lucy (Foraker) Watson, the former of whom lived into advanced age, the latter dying in early womanhood, William being the youngest child in their family. The maternal grandparents were Thomas and Hannah (Johnson) Williams, the former of whom was for a long period a manufacturer of edged tools in Belmont County.

children, as follows: John, who is a resident of Bridgeport; William, who died in boyhood; Joshua, who resides in Martin's Ferry; Hannah, who died at the age of two years; Adelaide P., who married William Woods, a farmer of Belmont County; Emma, who became Mrs. Mears; and James, who died at the age of 10 years. Five children were born to Thomas J. and Emma (Wat son) Mears, as follows: Janie P., born December 22, 1882, died August 6, 1896;

Mr. Mears was well known and universally respected, and his fellow citizens recall him with words of praise. To those who were admitted to his friendship and private life, he was known as a man of high and worthy motives.

JAMES F. McGILL, a prominent and successful citizen of Barnesville, Ohio, conducts a large blacksmith shop in this city, and also deals extensively^ in buggies, wagons and improved machinery of various kinds, being himself a practical machinist.

Mr. McGill was born September 9, 1859, on his father's farm in Warren township, Belmont County, Ohio. He is a son of John and Mary (Moore) McGill. John McGill was born in Belmont County, July 26, 1816, and died February 14, 1896. His widow still survives. He was one of the leading farmers of Warren township, and the family^ has been held in high esteem there for a long period.

James F. McGill obtained an excellent common school education in Warren township, and at the age of 21 years began to learn the blacksmith's trade. In 1880, he began farming and combined the two lines of business until 1898, when he took a trip to the far West. He located in Oregon, where he worked at his trade until he came back to his native county, and settled in Barnesville, on September 15, 1901. Since that time he has prospered in his business enterprises in this cityp and at his shop and

Mr. McGill was married March 20, 1883, to Ida M. Outland, a daughter of one of Barnesville's representative citizens. Four children were born to this union, namely: Outland T., who died in infancy ; Iva P. ; Howard C. and Clinton S. Mr. McGill is a member of the Knights of Pythias, in which he is active. He is regarded as one of the progressive young Imsiness men of the city, and is considered an excellent mechanic and a trustworthy and honorable citizen.

JAMES A. JUDKINS, M. D. A leading citizen of Barnesville, Ohio, is found in Dr. James A. Judkins, a prominent physician and surgeon, and a worthy representative of a name long respected in the commercial and social circles of this city.

The birth of Dr. Judkins occurred in 1842, in Barnesville, Ohio, and he was one of a family of three children born to Jesse and Eliza (Bailey) Judkins. The father was born in North Carolina, in 1799, and accompanied his parents to Barnesville in 1808. His father was a physician, and a Friend in religious belief. The mother was a daughter of James and Jane Bailey^ and was born in York County, Pennsylvania. In his early life, Jesse Judkins was engaged in farming, but later he became a merchant, and carried on an extensive business in Barnesville for many years.

Dr. Judkins attended the common schools of Barnesville. and began the study of medicine under the direction of his predecessor. Dr. E. Williams, in the same office he now occupies. He graduated from the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, in the class of 1866. He was in partnership with Dr. E. Williams, his preceptor, until 1881, after which he remained alone until he associated with him his son, William L. Judkins, who graduated in 1892, from Oberlin College, and later, entered the Ehiiversity^ of Pennsylvania, from the medical department of which he graduated in the class of 1894. For many y-ears the skill and ability of the sul)ject of this sketch have been generally recognized by the citizens of Barnesville and \'icinity, and he has easily held the position of the leading practitioner.

On October 2, 1867, Dr. James A. Judkins was united in marriage with Marietta V. Lewis, and two children l)orn to this union still survive, namely: Dr. William L. and

Mary Edna. The family is identified with the Methodist Church, in which it has always been one of tlie most highly valued. Fraternally, the Doctor is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Politically, he is a stanch Republican. He belongs to the I3elmont County Medical Society. Dr. Judkins, on account of his extensive experience, is often called into consultation with l)rother practitioners, with whom he enjoys the most cordial relations. He is highly esteemed in Barnesville and occupies an enviable position, socially and professionally. Since its organization, he has been one of the directors of the People's National Bank.

CHARLES W. RODEWIG, mayor of the city of Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Bellaire in November, 1862, being a son of Frederick and Margaret (Luckhard) Ivodewig, the latter of whom was born 63 years ago in Hesse, Germany, and is now a l)eloved and honored resident at the home of her son, H. P. Rode wig.

Frederick Rodewig, the father of Mayor Rodewig, was born near Hanover, Germany, where he learned the trade of willow worker, becoming a designer and maker of fancy chairs and other articles. At one time he exhibited some of his work at a fair in Wheeling. Llowever, Mr. Rodewig was ol)liged to give up his employment on account of impaired health, resulting from the sedentary occupation. In 1854 he located in Bellaire, and here engaged in a bakery l)usiness, which he successfully conducted until about 1887, when he retired from active business life. Mr. Rodewig became a prominent and influential man in Bellaire, was made receiver for the old street car line, and was active in securing the present electric service. He was one of the originators of the old line, and also of the gas plant, and later was a stockholder in the gas and electric light company. For nine years he was a member of the Board of Education and for four years was city treasurer, also serving for several years as councilman from the Third Ward. The handsome business block at No. 3137 Belmont street was erected by him. In politics he was a Democrat. During the period that he was a member of the School Board, a number of the commodious school buildings which adorn the city were erected. A family of seven sons came to him and his wife, viz.: August, who is in the employ of the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railway Company, at Bridgeport; Fred, who is a clerk in his brother's furniture store; Charles W. ; Henry P., who is a furniture merchant in Bellaire; John, who is a clerk in the above-named business;- and Edward and George, both connected with the glass works, the latter being a member of the Trade Assembly.

The present presiding city officer of Bellaire, Charles W. Rodewig, the subject of this sketch, has been connected with the business life of this city since attaining his majority. He assisted his father in the bakery business until 1889, was an efficient member of the police force, engaged in the furniture business for some years, became prominent in Democratic politics, and in April, 1902, was elected mayor of the city. He has justified the expectations of his friends in making a fine officer, and, judging the future by the past, Bellaire will have a clean, honest administration, in which its citizens can take pride.

The first marriage of Mayor Rodewig was to Lena Glaser, who at decease left one daughter, Clara M., a graduate of the Bellaire schools, and although but 18 years of a.ge, a cadet on the teacher's list. The second marriage of Mayor Rodewig was to Elizabeth Ludwig, and they have two children.

Thomas Mtstar Shreve

namely: Blanche and Carl W. The family are German Lutherans. Socially our subject belongs to the Belmont Turnverein, the Knights of Pythias, and the B. P. O. E., and he also belongs to the Chemical Company of the volunteer fire department.

THOMAS WISTAR SHREVE, a prominent attorney of Martin's Eerry, Belmont County, Oh.io, and a representative of an old and scholarly family, was born in Roscoe, Coshocton County, Ohio, March 31, 1858, and is a son of Charles R. and Martha (Bradshaw) Shreve, natives of Ohio and New York, respectively. All his ancestors, as far back as can be accurately traced, were very prominent men in the communities in which they lived, and all had ver}^ eventful lives.

It is believed that all the Shreves in America are the descendants of one Thomas Sheriff. The first authentic evidence of his presence in the country is found at Plymouth, Massachusetts, under date of December 7, 1641 ; he seems to have later moved to Rhode Island. He became the owner of land at Portsmouth, Rhode Island, December 10, 1666. Those of his descendants who stayed in Rhode Island as late as 1737 retained the name "Sheriff," while his son Caleb, who married and went to New Jersey, adopted the form "Shreve." Both names have the same meaning and derivation. Shrievalty, (shrevalty, as it is sometimes spelled) and sheriffalty are different spellings of the same word. Webster says that "shrieve" is a contraction of the Old English "shereve" or "shirereeve."

Caleb Shreve permanently located in New Jersey about 1680. He purchased land in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, to which he got title by virtue of a deed dated January 9, 1676-7. The original deed is in the possession of one of his descendants. On April 22, 1699, he purchased a farm in Burlington County, New Jersey, seven miles east of the present site of Mount Holly. This farm has ever since been owned by one of his descendants, a portion of the house in which Caleb Shreve lived which was built of brick is still standing. He had seven children to each of whom at their marriage he gave a fine farm. Judging from the records of New Jersey, Caleb Shreve and Ins immediate descendants played a most prominent part in the early history of the colony. Besides being prominent in civil life, the "Official Register of tlie Officers and Men of New Jersey in the Revolutionary War" shows that there were 12 Shreves, all of whom are believed to have been descendants of Caleb Shreve, in the Revolutionary Army. Among them were three colonels, one lieutenantcolonel, one captain and two lieutenants.

Col. Israel Shreve, the grandson of Caleb Shreve and great-great-grandfather of our subject, served his country throughout the Revolutionary War. Soon after the battle of Bunker Hill, the Provincial Congress ordered four regiments to be raised from New Jersey. Although Quaker blood coursed in his veins, Israel Shreve promptly responded and was appointed lieutenant-colonel of the second battalion of New Jersey troops November 8, 1775, and upon the re-organization of the "Jersey Line" November 28, 1776, he was made colonel of the Second Regiment, in which capacit}" he served until the end of the war. His regiment was a part of Maxwell's brigade and was with Washington in many of the most important battles of the Revolutionary War, and under his command won laurels in many bloody encounters. His son, Lieut. John Shreve, the great-grandfather of our subject, though a lad of only 13 years of age at the beginning of the war, took an active part in the struggle for independence, much of the time in service with his father. When the father's regiment marched for Canada in February, 1776, the son went with him. On July 15, 1776, John Shre^'e was appointed an ensign in his father's regiment. When the regiment was re-organized. he was made first ensign in the regiment, and later, July i, 1777, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Both father and son passed the winter of 1777 and 1778 with Washington at Valley Forge. Lieut. John Shreve has left, in his own handwriting, lengthy accounts of the connection of himself and his father with the Revolutionary War in general. Both were on the ground during the negotiations between Arnold and Andree, and both were eye witnesses of the latter's execution. Col. Israel Shreve had a brother, William Shreve, who served as major, then as lieutenant-colonel, and finally as colonel of the ist New Jersey Regiment. Another brother, Samuel Shreve, entered the Revolutionary Army as a captain in the First Battalion Gloucester (New Jersey), and became lieutenant-colonel of the same. Still another brother, Caleb Shreve, was very prominent in civil life, in New Jersey, during the war. Two of the three brothers of Col. Israel Shreve had sons in the same army, one of whom was a captain. All were "Fighting Quakers" and were disciplined for their want of meekness, but after the war were forgiven and allowed to return. Col. Israel Shreve died the same night Washington did, and it is believed about the same hour. It is said that his last words were: "Washington, O! Washington."

Lieut. John Shreve, the great-grandfather of the subject of this biography, spent about forty years of the best part of his life in Western Pennsylvania, where for a great part of that time he served as a public official in various capacities, representing his county several times in the State Legislature. lie died near Alliance, Ohio, at the age of 92 years, honored and respected lyy all.

His son. Dr. Thomas C. Shreve, the grandfather of our subject., was a graduate of Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, holding high rank among his associates and in the institution, and practiced his profession through life successfully. Pie passed the early part of his professional life in Ohio, during which time he represented his county in the Ohio Legislature in the years 1845 1846. He went to Kansas in 1857, locating at White Cloud. He had become prominent as an Abolitionist before he left Ohio. He was one of the early Republicans in the Sunflower