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J. M. ABBOTT, retired blacksmith, Millerstown. The grandfather, William Abbott, was one of the early pioneers of Johnson Township, and the father was also one of the pioneers, but died when our subject was 6 years of age; he was born in Johnson Township July 30, 1847. After his father's death he was brought up to farm labor among strangers until 15 years old, when he enlisted in the United States Army, in Co. E, 113 0. V. I., in which he served until Sept. 23, 1863, when he received four gunshot wounds at the battle of Chickamauga, at which he was also taken prisoner, but paroled on the field nine days after the battle. He was then transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, in which he served until the close of the war, and was mustered out and discharged at Harrisburg, Penn., July 21, 1865. After his return, he engaged as farm laborer until 1866, when he commenced blacksmithing with Jeremiah Bair, of St. Paris. Two years later, February, 5, married Angeline Evernham, and by this union three daughters have been burn-Lizzie, Anna and Emma A. Mrs. Abbott was born in Johnson Township May 19, 1848, and is a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Evernham. After J. M. completed his trade, he at once set up shop in Lena, Miami Co., where he successfully conducted his business until 1870, when he changed to his present location. there had a favorable patronage, but, in the spring of 1880, was appointed, in company with J. W. Weller, as Prospector for the "Nettle Creek Mining Company," which was shortly before organized. They spent the summer in Gunnison Co., Colo., searching into the prospects for the company. Here they remained until Oct. 19, 1880, and, while West, witnessed grand and magnificent mountain scenery. Operated on a mountain that was 13,882 feet above sea level, with flattering promise of financial success for the company.
JACOB AMMON, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; was born in 1821 in Rockingham Co., Va., and is a son of Peter (born in 1785) and Elizabeth Ammon, born in the same year, both of German parentage and natives of the same county as Jacob. They grew to maturity and married. During the war of 1812, Peter acted as substitute for another man. About 1827, he, with his wife and nine children, emigrated West, locating in Mad River Township, Champaign Co., where the tenth child was born to them. Peter purchased eighty acres of land, which he cultivated until his death, in 1851. His
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wife survived until 1857. Our subject has been a resident of Champaign Co. since 6 years of age. During his boyhood days, but few school privileges were enjoyed, hence education was limited with Jacob, who, during his early life, learned the black smith trade, and first set up shop in St. Paris. One year later he located in Millerstown, where he had learned his trade. There he conducted his business a period of twenty years, with a satisfactory patronage. At this time, ill health caused him to seek other labor, and he engaged in the general merchandise trade in the same village. In 1866, he sold this and purchased his present farm of eighty acres in Sec. 26, Johnson Township, where he has since been located, cultivating it with success. In 1847, he married Eliza Strickler, a native of Champaign Co., born in 1826. Their children, six in number, are all living.
REV. W. M. ANDREWS, Pastor of Reformed Church, St. Paris; a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ephraim Andrews, was born in Medina Co., Ohio, March 4, 1848, and raised to farm life until 19 years of age, during which time he received a limited education. At the above age, he entered the Heidelberg College, located at Tiffin, Ohio, from which he graduated in the classical course in June, 1873. On the 21st of the same month he married Miss Mary V. Craig, an accomplished lady of Tiffin, Ohio. After which, he took a two years' course of theology, and was ordained in the ministerial work in 1876. His charges have been New Philadelphia, Ohio; Reedsburg, Ohio, and his present one, St. Paris. Rev. Andrews is a man of good ability; height, six feet two inches; weight, 225 pounds, and possesses perfect health. They have two children, a son born in 1874, and a daughter in 1879.
WILLIAM APPLE, farmer; P. O., St. Paris; was born in Champaign Co.; in 1830, and is a son of Solomon and Catharine (Snapp) Apple; he was born in Union Co., Penn., and came to Ohio in an early day with his parents. Catharine was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, where she grew to maturity and married. Soon after their marriage they settled in Jackson Township, Champaign Co.; locating in the dense forest; passing through the pioneer days in opening out a fine farm of 240 acres, where they both died. The issue of this union were eight children, of whom six are now living, our subject being the eldest. He was raised to farm life, and remained at home until 30 years of age, at which time he married Mary A. Lyons; rented his present farm, which he afterward purchased from his father, and has added to the original until he now owns 247 acres in Johnson Township. He is an enterprising farmer; has his farm in a high state of cultivation and finely improved. Mr. Apple has served as Township Trustee and member of the local School Board a number of terms. Mr. and Mrs. Apple are the parents of five children, of whom three are now living.
JOHN BAKER, physician, St. Paris; born in 1812, in Germany; is a son of Casper and Barbara Baker, who were both of German, birth. They and family emigrated to the United States in 1834, locating in Somerset Co., Penn., where they lived and died at an old age. Their children were six in number, of whom John is the only surviving one to put upon record the untold history of the Baker family. He was raised to European life, where he received his literary education and primary knowledge of medicine, and was engaged in a pharmacy store, from which he was pressed into military service one year. In the meantime, was in the city of Darmstadt, where Gen. Garfield's ancestors originally lived. At the expiration of his military duty, he immediately emigrated to America. In 1839, he arrived in Ohio and studied medicine, chiefly at Wooster, where he prepared himself for his profession. In 1841, he began practicing in St. Paris, where he has since been favorably known. He is now nicely located and almost retired from the profession. His marriage with Elizabeth Pence, was celebrated in 1842. The issue of this union is two children, Frank and Mary C. Mrs. Baker was born 1822, in Champaign Co., Ohio.
MICHAEL BARNS, retired farmer; P. O. Millerstown ; is a son of Henry Barns, who was born in Virginia July 11, 1785, and was of German parentage. He was raised to farm life, and, Nov. 6, 1806, he married Charlotte Cramer, of Virginia.
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Their union lasted about one score years, when death seized Charlotte. and she was consigned to the silent tomb, leaving eight children. Mr. Barns afterward married Susan Kizer, also a native of Virginia. In after years they emigrated to Illinois, locating in Calhoun Co., where he died about 1852. Our subject was born in Virginia, April 15, 1815, where he grew to maturity on his father's farm, and obtained a common education in the subscription schools. April 2, 1844, he married Catherine Strayer, a native of Virginia, and, Oct. 8,1845, death severed their union. One child, John H., was born to them. Michael married for his second wife Margaret Kreglow, also of Virginia, born in 1828. After this marriage Mr. Barns again engaged in his previous trade, coopering, which he continued until 1849, when he emigrated to Ohio, locating at Urbana. Soon after, he purchased his present farm of 120 acres in Sec. 10, Johnson Township, where he has since resided and cultivated his land. Mr. Barns is finely located and well situated, and now entrusts the place to his four sons, who are industrious and bid fair to be useful men. They have three daughters-Mary E., wife of John H. Offenbacher ; Margaret C., now Mrs. Joseph Cisco, and one who remains at home.
ELISHA BERREY, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Elijah and Mary (Jones) Berrey, who were both natives of Virginia; they came to Champaign Co. in an early day, with their parents, and were among the first settlers. About 1825, their marriage was celebrated in Mad River Township; they were the parents of five children; of whom three are now living; Elijah's death occurred in 1835, and the widow now survives. Our subject was born in Champaign Co. Sept. 24, 1830, and raised to farm life; his education was procured in the log-hut schools of his native county. In 1849, he commenced life for himself by engaging as farm laborer. Seven years later, be married Barbara M., daughter of Absalom and Sarah Pence, after which he lived on a rented farm; one year later, he emigrated to Missouri; not liking the country, he returned, in 1858, and rented what is now his farm, in Sec. 26, Johnson Township; there he has since resided and cultivated his farm on a systematized plan. Mr. Berrey has been favorably known as a township officer and School Director, which place he filled for eighteen successive years, but refused to accept in the spring of 1880. Mr. Berrey, though not possessing a first-class education, is interested in the educational welfare of the vicinity. In May, 1872, Mrs. Mary Berrey was called hence, leaving her husband and five children to mourn her loss; one had passed away previous to her. Mr. Berrey afterward married Sarah Poorman, a native of Ohio; by this union they have had three children ; two are dead.
P. BERRY, saw-miller, contractor and builder, Millerstown. Among the business industries of Millerstown, we mention that of Peter Berry, which was established in 1867, since which he has been favorably known as contractor, builder, and manufacturer of all kinds of sawed lumber; in connection with this, he carries on, or superintends, farming to a large extent, which is done on a systemized plan. Mr. Berry was born in Johnson Township. Champaign Co., in 1835, and is a son of Elijah and Mary (Jones) Berry. Peter was raised to agricultural pursuits, and received a common-school education; he remained at home until 1856, when he went to Missouri, engaging in the stone-mason's trade; but, two years later, he returned to his native county, locating in Millerstown, after which he was variously engaged until the opening of his present business. Mr. Berry is a thorough-going business man of Millerstown. His marriage was celebrated, in 1859, with Elizabeth Jenkins, a native of Muskingum Co., Ohio, born in 1838; she is a worthy companion and mother of eight children-William D., Mary M., George M., Maggie M., Cora A., Joseph P., John (deceased) and Martha S.
ADAM BODEY, retired; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Fredrick Bodey, born Jan. 18, 1756, in Germany, where he grew to maturity; and, during the war of Independence, he emigrated to America, engaging as a patriot in that struggle, participating to its close, after which he settled in Virginia and married Barbara Libin. She was born in Rockingham Co., Va., June 28, 1784. They remained in her native State until their death. Fredrick died in 1818, and Barbara one year later. They were the parents of four
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children, of whom two now survive, Our subject was born in Virginia in 1808. and raised there to the age of 13. at which time be came to Ohio and endured many pioneer difficulties in Champaign Co. At the date of his first settlement in this county, Indians were numerous, and wild animals roamed the deep, unbroken forest. The educational privileges were very much limited, hence Adam received but little schooling. In 1830, he married Mary Brubaker. She was born in Virginia Sept. 15, 1814, and died Nov. 20, 1875. She was the mother of eight children, of whom six are now living. All save Mary are now married, she yet remains at home and dutifully cares for her aged father. Mr. Bodey has during life accumulated considerable land through his own exertions.
LEWIS BODEY, farmer; P. O. Millerstown ; is a grandson of Fredrick Bodey, and a son of Lewis Bodey, who was born in Virginia where he grew to majority and married. His wife died, and he married for his second wife Margaret Frisinger, also of Virginia. They emigrated West about 1,816, locating in Champaign Co., and were among the first white settlers, enduring many things that only those who passed through can describe. He entered 160 acres of land, which he greatly improved. He died in September, 1839, but his wife now survives at nearly fourscore years of age. Their children were eight in number, of whom four are now living, our subject being the seventh. He was born in Johnson Township in 1830, and raised to farm life. His education was obtained in the subscription schools. When but a boy he commenced life for himself by engaging as farm laborer, and, in 1857, he married Martha A. Bradley, a native of Virginia, but raised in Champaign Co. They have resided on their present farm of 86 acres Sec. 3, Johnson Township, since marriage, except four years. Mr. Bodey is a man of public spirit and feeling. Mr. and Mrs. Bodey are the parents of eleven children, of whom three are now deceased.
H. C. BODEY, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; was born in Putnam Co., Ohio, in 1840, and is a son of Adam Bodey. Our subject was raised to farm life in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, and received a common-school education ; he remained at home until 25 years of age, when he married Sarah E. Vincent, born in Dayton, Ohio, in 1845, after which he engaged in farming for himself, and is now successfully cultivating the old home farm in Sec. 9, Johnson Township. In 1875, be purchased a part of the property, and his prospects appear favorable for the future. Mr. and Mrs. Bodey are the parents of five children, viz., Henrietta, Charlotte A., Carlton V., Emmet A. and Annie V.
HARRISON BODEY, retired farmer ; P. O. Millerstown ; is a grandson of Frederick Bodey, who came with his father from their native country, Germany, during the war of Independence, in which they participated. The eldest Mr. Bodey, being seriously wounded in the bead, returned to his native country, Frederick continuing through the war to its close, after which he settled in the Shenandoah Valley, in Virginia, where be lived and died, at about threescore years of age. During life he was twice married, the second wife surviving at his death, but she has long since passed away. Christian Bodey, the father of our subject, was born in Virginia in 1796, where he passed through many difficulties in the pioneer days of his native State, and endured many hardships as a patriot in the war of 1812, after which be married Elizabeth Frisinger, of Virginia, born in 1800. In 1816, they emigrated West, entering what is now the old farm, in See. 3, Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio. After a stay of three years in the deep, unsettled wilds, the severe illness of Frederick, his father, called them to their native State, where he died. While Christian and his family were in Virginia, our subject was born, Oct. 18, 1819. Christian and family remained, to settle up the estate, and, in 1821, again came West, taking up their abode on the previously entered farm. This they took from its wilds to a good degree of improvement and cultivation. Their first neighbors were Indians, who were at times troublesome; many wild animals at that time roamed the woods, but these have long since disappeared. He lived through the rise and progress of Champaign Co., until his death in 1868 ; one year
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later his wife, too, passed away. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom five are now living, Harrison being the eldest; he was raised during the early days of the county, and endured many things that only those who have passed through can describe. He married Nancy A. Long in 1839, after which he engaged in cultivating his father's farm, where he remained until after the death of Christian (above given). Soon after, he received his heirship, on which he has erected a comfortable farm residence, and is well situated for life. Mr. Bodey is a man of social feeling, and a much-respected citizen. Mr. and Mrs. Bodey are the parents of ten children-Agnes, Elizabeth, Christian, Harriet, Benjamin, Margaret A., Harrison, Jr., Eliza E., Thomas J. and Vallandingham.
ISAAC BRUBAKER, retired banker, St. Paris; is one of the pioneers of Champaign Co.; is a son of Samuel Brubaker. who was born in Shenandoah Co., Va., about 1790, and emigrated with his parents to Ohio in a very early day, locating in Lawrence Co., where they remained seven years. They came to Champaign Co. soon after the war of 1812, locating near Millerstown, where Samuel's death occurred, about 1845. Our subject was born in Lawrence Co., Ohio, in 1814 ; was raised to farm life in the pioneer days of Champaign Co. He nobly assisted his father in opening out a farm from the unbroken wilderness. In 1835, he married Barbara A. Pence, who was born in Virginia in 1816, and died in St. Paris in 1875, leaving one daughter. Soon after the above marriage, Isaac engaged in farming for himself, in Johnson Township, which he continued until the spring of 1864, at which time he located in St. Paris. One year later he sold his farm and engaged in the bank of Brubaker & McMorran, which partnership lasted until 1877. In the same year he married bliss Harriet M. Manning, born near Zanesville, Ohio. She is a daughter of Rev. James Manning, who was an active . clergyman of the Lutheran denomination for fifty-three years, when he was stricken with a final and fatal disease. His last act was his resignation from the ministerial service.
JOSEPH BUROKER, attorney and farmer; P. O. St. Paris; another of the pioneers of Champaign Co., was born in Virginia June 12, 1818, and came with his parents to Ohio when but an infant. They settled in Mad River Township, Cham paign Co., where the father and mother both passed away. Joseph grew to majority on his father's farm, and nobly assisted in opening it out. His primary education was acquired in the common log-hut schools; but, through his own exertions, he has since greatly improved it. In that early day, the windows in schoolhouses were greased paper, pasted over openings to admit the light, while to-day we have glass, clear as crystal. Joseph's boyhood days were often spent in company with the Indians,. frequently seeing wild animals of different kinds, but both Indians and animals have long since disappeared from these parts. About 1838, Joseph commenced teaching school, and in March, two years later, he married Catherine Snapp. Afterward he settled on his farm in Johnson Township, which he cultivated in connection with the duties of his office of Justice of the Peace; thus he continued until the erection of the Columbus, Piqua & Indiana Railroad, the construction of which he was greatly interested in. Shortly before the road was finished, he, in company with his father-in-law, John Snapp, erected the first warehouse at St. Paris. They were the first grain buyers and shippers of that place. In connection with this, Joseph was appointed as ticket, freight and express agent. This position he filled several years, meanwhile turning some attention to law. Then he opened an office in St. Paris, devoting his time totally to the profession a number of years. In the meantime, he purchased his present farm. Sec. 15, and, for the purpose of raising his sons to farm life, located on it in 1873. Five years later he moved his office to his residence, and is still enjoying a reasonable patronage in the practice of law.
D. J. COMER, physician, Millerstown. Before engaging in any profession, it would be well for one to study his adaptability for the one of his choice, as Dr. Comer did, whose fitness for his profession has been shown by his success. The Doctor was
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born in Johnson Township in 1844, and is a son of Reuben Comer, one of the pioneers of the county. Our subject was raised to farm life, and acquired his elementary education in the common schools. His medical life began in 1873, after which he was in attendance at the Medical College of Ohio and the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, graduating, from the latter in 1876. One year later he located in Millerstown. January 1, 1878, his marriage was celebrated with Miss Anna C. Neer, a native of Concord Township, and one year his junior.
ISAAC COMER, general merchant, Millerstown, is a son of Reuben Comer, one of the pioneers of Johnson Township. He is the senior member of the firm of Nor man & Comer. A sketch of their business will be found under the name of the associated partners. The subject of this sketch was born in Johnson Township, and raised to farm life. This was his occupation until the opening of his present business. His education was acquired in the common school's, In 1858 he married Amanda J. Smith, of his native township. They have two children living-Mary E. (now Mrs. Robert Barger), and Emma A., wife of Jesse Jenkins.
C. W. COVALT, livery, St. Paris. In speaking of the business industries of St. Paris, the stable of C. W. Covalt deserves a liberal mention in this work. He is a native of Miami Co., Ohio ; was raised to farm life, and had all opportunities of becoming acquainted with horses. He has been engaged in the livery trade in St. Paris since 1873, and is located on South Springfield street. Here be has everything neatly and comfortably arranged ; be does not aim to keep as large a supply of horses as city liverymen, but what he has are among the best, as are also his carriages, buggies and funeral hacks. Mr. Covalt is a live young man in his business, and merits a good patronage. His first wife was Nannie Rollfe, to whom he was married in 1860. Twelve years later she died, leaving one son-Lewis F. Mr. Covalt married for his second wife Sarah J. White, a native of Champaign Co., Ohio.
H. B. DAVIS, teacher, St. Paris; was born in Zane Township, Logan Co., Ohio, in December, 1843; was raised to farm life, and acquired his primary education in the common schools, and so deep were his mental interests that he carried his book strapped to his body while plowing. His literary education was mostly acquired in the schools of Urbana and Dayton. In the latter he attended the Babbit & Wilt Commercial College, from which he bears a written recommendation as a fine penman and understanding the rudiments of that art. He commenced the profession of teaching when 22 years of are, to which he has since devoted his time. In 1868, he located in St. Paris, and has been engaged three years in the union schools of the town. Since a resident of St. Paris, he has filled several places of public trust, among which we mention United States Census Taker, and in the spring of 1880 was elected as Township Assessor, in which he had to overcome a large majority of the opposing party. In the winter of 1880, the Nettle Creek Mining Company was organized, in which he was elected as Secretary, and, by report of inspectors. things are now looking favorable in Colorado. He also owns five shares in the Monta Christa Mining Company. The life of Mr. Davis has been marked with many things, through which it was difficult to pass, and it is astonishing that he ever attained his present abilities. In 1868, he was united in marriage with Miss Mattie Carlo, born in Champaign Co., of German parentage, the father being a noted German physician.
L. W. FAULKNER, druggist and practitioner, St. Paris. The adaptability or this gentleman for his chosen profession has been shown by his success. He is a native of Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio; born Dec. 15, 1850 ; there he grew to manhood on his father's farm. His elementary education was acquired in the common schools. In 1869, he commenced teaching, which he followed two years; in the meantime he took up the study of medicine, reading steadily and closely; in the spring of 1873, he graduated from the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery. His first location was Casstown, Miami Co., Ohio, where he practiced five years, after which he emigrated to Coffey Co., Kan., locating in Burlington. There he devoted his
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attention to the same line of business as he is now engaged in. In December, 1879, he returned to his native county, locating in St. Paris, where he is a practical physician, and superintends a good drug store, stocked with a full line of drugs and druggists' sundries. Notwithstanding that he is a new man in the business circles of St. Paris, he has established a healthy patronage, which attentiveness and industry have brought him. His marriage with Miss Sallie McAnally was celebrated June 8, 1873. The issue of this union are two children-Stella M. and Harry M.
JOHN M. FRENCH, furniture dealer, St. Paris. St. Paris, like all towns of its size, is represented with one or more furniture dealers, among whom we mention J. M. French. He was born in Addison, Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, Dec. 6, 1837, and raised to his present trade under his father's instructions, remaining at home until 21 years of age. In the meantime he procured a common education. In 1858, he went to Indianapolis, Ind., workin in a first-class furniture factory, and, five years later, he engaged m clerk in the Adams Express Company, which he resigned in 1864. He went to Cincinnati, Ohio, engaging in the leading furniture manufactory, and afterward in a number of the first-class shops of the United States. In 1869, he returned to his native county and located in St. Paris, starting a shop for himself, in which he has since been duly engaged, and, since a resident here, has been elected as Councilman three terms, and a member of the St. Paris Union School Board two terms, of which body he is Clerk. March 26, 1865, he married Jennie Shellenberger, born in Juniata Co., Penn., in 1836; they have three children-Burt L., Annie E. and Earl D.
E. H. FURROW, general merchant, St. Paris. St. Paris, located in the south central part of Johnson Township, is an industrious and enterprising town. It is represented by various branches of business, among which E. H. Furrow's the oldest of its kind in the town (established thirty-five years ago), deserves more than a passing notice on the pages of this history. He has recently erected his present commodious and attractive store building on the eorner of Main and Springfield streets, where he carries a complete line of dry goods and fancy goods, clothing and gents' furnishing goods, glass and queens ware, and a full line of fancy groceries, etc. His long experience and taste enables him to superintend it, and keep it in a tasty and attractive style. In connection with his mercantile trade he owns considerable land near St. Paris, which is under his super vision and receives his attention almost daily. Mr. Furrow was born in Miami Co., Ohio, in 1823, and, from the age of 4 years to 22, the most of his time was spent in his father's store in Piqua. His marriage with Rachel Brown was celebrated in 1852 ; she was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1833. Their children are Thomas J., Lizzie L. (wife of Dr. F. Baker), Thirza W. and J. Lawrence.
J. K. FURROW, grocer, St. Paris; was born in Miami Co., Ohio, in 1831, and is a son of Mathias Furrow, who was born in Virginia and came to Ohio with his parents in a very early day. He mostly led the life of a farmer in Clark and Miami Counties; but, in 1852 when his death occurred, he resided in Shelby Co., Ohio. Our subject was raised to the life of a farmer's son, and acquired his education in common schools. He remained at home until 1852, when he married Margaret Nichols, born in Shelby Co., Ohio, in 1830. Soon after the marriage, J. K. retired from his previous occupation (pump making), and engaged in farming, which he continued until the fall of 1861, when the great crisis of our country was raging. He enlisted in Co. A, 44th 0. V. I., serving over three years, during which time he rose through all the degrees from private to Captain of his company. He afterward served as a cavalryman under Gen. Sheridan. While in service, he participated in the battles of Lewisburg, Va. ; Summerset, Ky.; siege of Knoxville, and many others. After his return home he associated with Stout, Skillen & Co., in Jackson Center, Shelby Co., Ohio, in general mercantile trade, where he remained until 1868, when he located in St. Paris in the grocery trade, and he now carries in connection a full line of glass and queensware and table cutlery. He is located on South Springfield street, where be has, by industry and good business babits, established a healthy trade. - The children of
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Mr. and Mrs. Furrow are six in number-O. F., Laura E., Effa F., Edgar O., Albert D. and John E.
O. F. FURROW, jeweler, St. Paris. Another enterprise of St. Paris which deserves more than a passing notice is the jewelry store of O. F. Furrow, located on Main street. He is a son of J. K. Furrow, and was born in Miami Co., Ohio, Aug. 6, 1854; since 14 years of age, he has been a resident of St. Paris; the first five years of his time were occupied in the union schools, and odd days and hours in his father's grocery. In 1875, he commenced his trade in St. Paris, and completed it in Piqua, under M. F. Richey, a first-class jeweler; in 1879, he bought a good stock of jewelry and watches in St. Paris, which he has replenished as often as trade demanded. He, as well as his father, is a thorough business man, and merits a hearty patronage. Nov. 8, 1879, he married Miss L. M. Smith, a native of Shelby Co., Ohio.
ISAAC GOOD, SR., retired farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Casper Good, who were both natives of Pennsylvania, where they married; they afterward settled in Shenandoah, now Page, Co., Va., where they died at advanced ages; seven children were given to this union, of whom Jonas, the father of our subject, was born in Virginia, where he grew to manhood on the farm, and married Sarah Tanner, a native of the same State; after marriage, he followed farming in connection with blacksmithing until his death, which occurred during the war of the late rebellion-having been a patriot in the war of 1812 ; his second wife followed him to her last resting place about 1862. Jonas and his first wife were the parents of eight children, Isaac being the oldest; he was born in Shenandoah Co., Va., Aug. 10, 1808, and was raised to agricultural pursuits in his native county ; he enjoyed limited school privileges in subscription schools. In 1834, he emigrated to Ohio, stopping as farm laborer in Champaign Co. Nine months later, he married Elizabeth Rinaker, born in Rockingham Co., Va.; he soon after settled on a farm, and, since then, his attention has been directed to farming, having accumulated considerable land; he assisted his married children, and yet retains 80 acres in Sec. 14, Johnson Township; for the past few years, he has devoted his time closely to the raising of fine stock, in which his taste and ability have been plainly shown. Mr. and Mrs. Good are the parents of seven sons, of whom two died in early life ; of the five surviving, two have become practical physicians; the remaining three are farmers, in which they show taste and ability.
DR. S. G. GOOD, physician, St. Paris; was born in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio; early in life, he applied himself in the common schools, where he acquired his primary education; he commenced teaching in September, 1861, in which profession he continued until 1874; in 1868, he was elected Township Assessor, to which office he was re-elected nine successive years. He commenced the study of medicine in 1872, which he continued until 1875, at which time he was elected Mayor of St. Paris, and turned his attention to the study of law; in the same year, he was elected as Justice of the Peace, and re-elected in 1878; he continued the reading of law until 1877, when he abandoned it, and resumed the study of medicine, in which he graduated in the spring of 1880, and is now a practical physician.
G. D. GRAHAM, book agent, Allen's P. O., Miami County; is a son of Joseph and Maria Graham, both natives of Bucks Co., Penn. She was born in Lower Makefield Township, in 1800; he, in Upper Makefield Township, March 29,1795. He was bred a farmer, and in youth received a common-school education. At the age of 16 he enlisted as a soldier in the war of 1812. In 1834, he, wife and three children emigrated to Ohio and located in Johnson Township, Champaign Co. They came through in wagons, being twenty-five days in making the journey-somewhat longer than by the present mode of travel. In one of the wagons he had, loose in a sack, 1,800 half-dollars in silver, with which he paid for his 80 acres of land. Upon their arrival, they set about to complete the improvement of the farm, which was then very imperfect. The part under cultivation was only partially cleared, and the buildings were a rude log house
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and a log barn. They soon made a comfortable home and had the farm in a good state of cultivation. He fitted his children for the path of life by giving them a common school education. It was not his ambition to extend his possessions, but he preferred to keep in good repair what he had, and at the time of his death he had about $6,000 and his homestead. He was upright in all his dealings, and, we are informed that he never owed a bill longer than six months. Maria, his wife. died Feb. 3, 1864, and Joseph, Oct. 8, 1872. Six children were born to them-Anna T., in Lower Makefield Township, Bucks Co., Penn., Aug. 31, 1820, now Mrs. John Wolcott, Sr.; James, in the above-named township, where be died in infanev ; Louisa, born in Bucks Co. Jan. 29, 1823, is the wife of William Roberts, of Lena, Miami Co., Ohio ; Eleanor J., now Mrs. Isaac C. Short, of Missouri, was born in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, May 5, 1835; Joseph A., born Nov. 30, 1839, and died Feb. 10, 1879, from the effects of burns received at the burning of his house on the home farm. He was married Oct. 9, 1869, to Esther P., daughter of John and Letitia Reeder. G. D., the subject of this sketch and fourth child, was born March 21, 1829, in Lower Makefield Township, Bucks Co., Penn. He was raised to agricultural pursuits, which have been his principal occupation till within the last year. He took an active part in suppressing the rebellion, enlisting Aug. 5, 1862. Was taken prisoner by Kirby Smith's men at Tate's Ford, Ky., Sept. 1, 1862 ; carried to Richmond and paroled. In the following March he returned to the field, and from that time till he was disabled, in June of that year, he saw a little of all that transpired. From that time till the close he was on guard duty. He is now engaged in the book business, and thus far has chosen to tread life's path alone.
S. D. HARMON, druggist, Millerstown. Among the business industries of the village of Millerstown we mention that of S. D. Harmon's new drug store, which was established in June, 1880. He carries a full line of drugs and druggists' sundries, paints, oils, etc. Mr. Harmon was born in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1851, and raised to agricultural pursuits. His elementary education was obtained in the common schools, after which, he attended the Bellefontaine Union High School and the Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. He was a standard teacher of Johnson Township, where his time principally has been occupied as such since 1869, commanding first-class wages. In December, 1871, he married Rebecca J. Grove, a native of Champaign Co., and five years his junior. Mr. and Mrs. Harmon are the parents of two sons-Theodocia R. and Claude.
G. W. HECK, farmer; P. O. Millerstown; is a son of John and Matilda (Pretzman) Heck ; they were both natives of Maryland, where they grew to maturity and married. In 1836, they emigrated to Ohio, locating in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., where John died at the age of 72. His wife still survives on the old farm. They were the parents of nine children, seven of whom are now living, our subject being the third eldest child. He was born in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1837, and raised to farm life, and acquired his education in the common schools. In 1861, he married Lydia Norman, after which he engaged in agricultural pursuits on his present farm of eighty-nine acres in Sec. 1, Johnson Township, where be has since resided, and cultivated his farm scientifically. His farm is located on the right bank of Nettle Creek, affording a fine view of the village of Millerstown and surrounding country. Mr. Heck has held the office of Township Trustee five years, which position he now fills with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. Mr. and Mrs. Heck are the parents of two children-Charles and Thomas. Mrs. Heck was born in Johnson Township in 1837, and is a daughter of Benjamin Norman.
ALLEN HUFFMAN, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; was born January, 1835, in Champaign Co., and is a son of Samuel and Catherine (Miller) Huffman. Samuel was born in Virginia, and when a child came to this county with his parents, who settled where St. Paris now is located. That was all in the woods, and the clearing it up is due to the hands of the pioneer Huffman family, where they remained until-their-death,
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and Samuel grew to manhood. His wife was born near Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio, and raised through its primitive days. After their marriage, they settled near St. Paris, and, in 1837, located on the old home farm, Sec. 24, Johnson Township, where Samuel died, soon after the late war. His wife now survives. Our subject was raised to agricultural pursuits, and acquired his education in the common schools. From the year 1856, he was variously engaged until he married, March, 1868, after which he engaged in farming in Montgomery Co., Ohio, and, in 1871, purchased his present farm of 111 acres, in Sec. 30, Johnson Township, where he is comfortably situated, and possessing a fine grain farm. Mr. and Mrs. Huffman are the parents of three children - Charles E., Minnie C. and Louisa A. Mrs. Rebecca Huffman was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1837, and is a daughter of Henry and Catherine Heincke, of Germany, who were among the early settlers of Montgomery Co., now both deceased.
C. JONES, physician and druggist, St. Paris; was born in Piqua, Miami Co., Ohio, June 2, 1851, and was raised in Shelby Co., Ohio. There he procured his elementary education in the district schools. In 1872, he commenced the study of medicine, under Dr. William Goodlove, of Montra, Ohio, and four years later he graduated from the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery. He continued his practice in Harper, Logan Co., Ohio, until February, 1877, when he located in St. Paris. Here he, in association with A. Muscleman, purchased the oldest drug stand in the place, well stocked with drugs and druggists sundries. They have greatly increased their stock and improved their appearance, and report good annual sales. In connection with the store, Dr. Jones has a healthy and liberal patronage in his profession. He has for fourteen years been an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a member of the I. O. O. F.. in which he is H. P. January 25, 1872, he married Sarah Morris, born in Shelby Co., Ohio, June 10, 1851. Her death occurred in St. Paris, Sept. 29, 1879. Their children were Mary E., Xerxes and Charles Foster.
BENJAMIN KIZER, retired farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kizer, who were born about the middle of the eighteenth century, in Virginia, where they married, and raised a family of eight children. The father and four children died of yellow fever, about 1790. Joseph, the father of Benjamin, was born in Page Co., Va., in 1777, where he grew up to manhood, and in 1809 married Catharine Comer, also a native of Virginia., Two years later, he, with his wife, two, children and mother, emigrated to Ohio, locating in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., on the bank of Nettle Creek. There he entered the service in the war of 1812, in which he participated three months, when he was honorably discharged, and returned home to his family. He at once commenced opening out a farm from the deep forest, where he had entered land, and in a reasonable time had a farm of 160 acres under ordinary improvement and cultivation ; this he farmed until his death, which occurred soon after the war of the late rebellion. His wife preceded him about ten years, and his mother about twoscore and five years. Joseph and Catharine were the parents of eight children, of whom five are now living. Our subject was born 1813, in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., where he has since resided. His boyhood days were spent in the deep, unbroken forest, sheltered in his father's lone log cabin. At about the age of 18, he went as assistant chain-carrier in surveying a direct road to Columbus, passing through many privations and hardships. In 1842, he and his brother purchased one quarter-section of his present farm, since which he has bought his brother's interest and added to it, until he now owns 297 acres in Secs. 14 and 20, Johnson Township, which is under good cultivation and improvement. Mr. Kizer has, during life, filled some of the most important offices of the township, and that of Justice for twenty-one successive years. He has a good stock farm, on which be is raising a fine class of stock. In November, 1844, he married Mary Pence, a native of Ohio. After a companionship of twelve years, death separated them, and Mrs. Kizer was consigned to the silent tomb, leaving three children. Mr. Kizer married Matilda Guss; they have had born to them three sons. There are now four sons and one daughter surviving. The great grandparents of our subject emigrated from Germany, about 1590.
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G. R. KISER, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. Millerstown; is a son of Nicholas and Margaret (Kiser) Kiser; he was a native of North Carolina and she of Pennsylvania. They came West with their parents in an early day, and settled in Clark Co., Ohio, where their marriage occurred. He afterward entered land in Shelby County, where they settled and passed through many of the pioneer days. His death occurred in 1843, leaving a wife and twelve children -one had passed away before him-and nine are now living, of which our subject is the seventh. He was born in Shelby Co., Ohio, December, 1829, and raised to farm life. Being left fatherless when but a boy, he soon after was on the waves of time, battling his way by engaging as a farm laborer and at saw-milling, from which be rose, step by step, to his present standing. He is a large land-owner ; part of his land lies in Champaign County, Indiana and Iowa. Mr. Kiser is one of the scientific farmers, takes. particular pride in keeping his land in a good, tillable state and well improved; he is one of the prominent grain-raisers of Johnson Township; he also handles and keeps a fine class of stock on his farms. Mr. Kiser is a self-made man, and has earned his property by his own exertions. In November, 1856, he married Margaret E. McVay, born in Butler Co., Ohio, in 1838. They have two children-John W. and Mary B.
KUMP & FRY, manufacturers of and dealers in carriages and buggies, St. Paris. St. Paris, like all towns of its size, is represented with various branches of industries. The above factory was established in 1855, under the name of J. Kump, after which several changes were made until 1872, when the senior member, Edward Fry, associated and formed the firm Kump, Beck & Fry. Four years later, Beck sold out to the present firm, who have a healthy patronage, which has been established by the use of good material and men of first-class ability to execute the work: Mr. Fry was born in the Province of Quebec, Canada, in 1841, raised to town life and acquired his education in his native country, where he learned his trade (painter). In 1860, he became a citizen of the United States, engaging in his trade at Rochester, N. Y., and since has been engaged elsewhere. He was employed in the well-known factory of David West, at Springfield, Ohio, where he was engaged eleven years, seven years of which he was foreman of the painter's department. Thus we see he has had experience and advantages in first-class shops of the United States, which makes him a mechanic of good ability. His marriage was celebrated Feb. 16, 1871, with Miss Emma J. Baker, of Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio.
SAMPSON LONG, contractor, builder and farmer; P. O. St. Paris; was born in Johnson Township, in 1829, on the farm he new owns. He is a son of John R. and Elizabeth (Hanback) Long; they were both natives of Virginia, coming to Ohio in an early day, where their marriage was celebrated. Soon after the birth of Sampson, Elizabeth was called hence, leaving our subject motherless. He afterward fell under the jurisdiction of a step-mother, maturing, through some difficulties, since which she has, too, passed away, and the father now lives in St. Paris with his third companion. Sampson was raised to farm life and enjoyed the usual common-school privileges, remaining at home until majority, when he engaged in the carpenter trade with Daniel Death. In his trade, he has since proven himself as a skilled mechanic, known far and near. In 1851, he married Elizabeth Heck, a native of Maryland. One year later he purchased his father's farm in Sec. 7, Johnson Township. This has since been under his supervision in connection with his trade, and he has added to the original purchase 13 acres in Sec. 1. Mr. and Mrs. Long are the parents of four children-Minerva C., George W., Victoria A. and Missouri May.
REV. WILLIAM LIPPINCOTT, minister, St. Paris; is a grandson of Samuel Lippincott, who was of English birth and came to America at a very early day ; he was one of the patriots of the war of the Independence, through which he passed and endured many hardships. Rev. Lippincott is a son of Rev. Ephraim Lippincott, who was born in Monmouth Co., N. J., soon after the war of 1776. Early in the nineteenth century he commenced his pastoral labors in the Baptist Church In 1827,
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he moved from Licking Co., Ohio, to Clark Co., Ohio, where he continued his profession, and eleven years later he located in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, and followed his pastoral labors until within a few years of his decease, in 1874. In 1806, he married Miss Mary, daughter of Rev. John W. Patterson ; they had nine children by this union ; six reached maturity, of whom five are now living. Our subject was born in Licking Co., Ohio, Oct. 28, 1819 ; seven years later, he with his parents located in Pike Township, Clark Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood on the farm, and acquired his elementary education in the log-hut schools, which he since, through industry and experience, has greatly improved. In 1869, he commenced his ministerial labors, and one year later he was ordained as a minister of the Baptist Church, in Wabash Co., Ind. In April, 1873, he located in St. Paris, where he has since labored in the Nettle Creek Church, a short distance off, and various other places. His marriage with Mary Wells was celebrated Feb. 20, 1840 ; she was born in Virginia Aug. 12, 1819.
JOHN LOUDENBACK, Justice of the Peace; P. O. Millerstown; born in Concord Township, Champaign County, Feb. 7, 18'34, and raised to farm life in the pioneer days ; his education was acquired in the log-hut schools. In 1844, he entered life for himself, and Oct. 9, 1845, married Martha A. Jenkins, continuing farm pursuits until his location in Millerstown (1859). While a resident of Concord Township, h6 was elected to the office of Justice, and, when two-thirds of the term had expired, he moved to his present location. He has a residence second to none in the village, with good surrounding improvements. In March, 1856, he entered in the first land purchase (in Logan County), since which several changes have taken place. He now owns 148 acres in Champaign County, and land in Allen Co., Ind ; this he has mostly procured by his own exertions. Since a resident of Millerstown, he has held his present office four terms ; he is a man of charity and public spirit. Mr. Loudenback has for a number of years been a member of the I. O. O. F., Odd Fellows' Beneficiary y Association and an active member of the Universalist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Loudenback have raised two children to maturity-Samuel Compton and Mary J. Jenkins.
JAMES McALLISTER (deceased) ; was born in North Carolina, Oct. 23, 1803, and was left an orphan when about 3 years old, at which time (1806) he came to Ohio with his sister, Mrs. Sullivan, the mother of Samuel Sullivan, of Miami Co, He remained with his sister until he was able to shift for himself, and many a hard struggle did he have. After he grew to manhood, he made rails for 25 cents per day, and walked two miles, night and morning. But, like most, and probably all, who have started under similar circumstances, he knew the value of a dollar and made the best use of it. By economy and hard work, lie finally became the owner of a fine farm of 160 acres in Jackson Township, and a good property in St. Paris. His land he took from a state of nature, and converted the forests into highly cultivated fields and made a comfortable and desirable home. He was twice married, first to Esther Layton, by whom he had five children-Joseph L., born Jan. 8, 1826; Malcolm D., Nov. 23, 1828; Lemuel, April 25, 1832; Susan L., March 21, 1838, and Cinda J., Sept. 14, 1844. In about a near after the death of Esther McAllister, he married Delilah Kirby. She was born in Warren Co., Ohio, Nov. 3, 1826. To this union three children were given James 1I., born July 11; H. G., Dec. 16,1851, and I. N., Nov. 23, 1860. James McAllister departed this life Feb. 28, 1875, having been a member of the Christian Church for over thirty years. Thus was the church robbed of a worthy member, the community of a respectable citizen, and his family of a loving father, whose example they will do well to imitate. Mrs. McAllister and her son; I. N., reside in St. Paris. The two first-born are deceased. James M. died at the age of 5 years, and H. G. in his 234 year. He was a graduate of the Ohio Medical College, at Cincinnati, and practiced a short time at Terre Haute, Champaign Co., finally in Cincinnati, for about. two years. He became quite an expert in surgery. His death occurred April 15. 1S74.
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CHRISTIAN McMORRAN, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Samuel McMorran, Sr., who was of Scotch parentage. They came to America before the war of Independence. Samuel, Sr., was born in 1.785, in Pennsylvania. After spending his minor years in his native State, he became a resident of New York State until 1813, when lie came West, locating in Montgomery Co., Ohio. One year later he removed to Johnson Township, purchasing eighty acres of land, now owned by William Apple. This, in connection with two other farms, he took from its wilds during life. While a resident of Montgomery Co., Ohio, he married Barbara Heaston, born in Virginia in 1789. She came to Ohio with her parents when but a child. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel, Sr., had six children, and each of them received a liberal heirship. Samuel, Sr., died in 1863, and Barbara in 1864. Our subject was born in 1823, in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, and raised to farm life. He enjoyed the usual common schools of the day. In 1848, he married Sarah Loudenback, and commenced the channel of life for himself as a farmer, which ire has since continued. His first and only location was on a part of his present firm, but he now owns 520 acres under a good state of cultivation. This lie conducts on a good principle, and shows himself as an enterprising farmer. His wife was born in 1825, in Mad River Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, and, after a companionship of ten years, she was called hence. His second wife was a younger surer, Susan Loudenback, born in 1830. Four children were born to each union; all are now living, eight in number. Mr. McMorran's wives were daughters of Reuben and Mary Loudenback, who were early settlers in the county; but have long since passed away.
CAPT. S. T. McMORRAN, attorney at law, St. Paris; born in Jackson Township in 1831, and raised on his father's farm, in Johnson Township. His elementary education was acquired in the common schools, and improved at the Delaware and other colleges of Ohio. His marriage with Susan Brubaker was celebrated in March, 1855. In the fall of 1861, he rapidly closed up his private affairs and raised a company of soldiers; he entered the service as Captain of Co. C, 66th O. V. I. In November of the same fall, they entered Camp McArthur, at Urbana, remaining until January, 1862, when they joined Gen. Landers in Virginia. In the same spring, they were engaged in the battle of Port Republic, in which Capt. McMorran was slightly wounded. Aug. 9, while participating in the battle of Cedar Mountains, he received a second wound, which disabled him for service, and to-day leaves him affected. He returned home in January 1863; joined the military Home Guard, which was mustered into service the same spring, continuing out 100 days. Thus has he shown a helping hand in the military duties of our country. On May 1, 1865, he associated with Isaac Brubaker in the organization of the first systematized bank of St. Paris. This received his supervision for twelve years, when he retired from its duties and engaged regularly ill the profession oŁ law. In the same year the bank was organized, Capt. Mc.Morran was elected as Representative from his native county to the State Legislature, where he served so honorably that two years later he was re-elected, thereby being a member of that distinguished body two successive terms. Mr. and Mrs. McMorran were the parents of two sons-Isaac N. and one who died in infancy. Mrs. McMorran is a native of Champaign Co., born in 1840.
HENRY MAGGERT, farmer; P. O. St. Paris. Is a son of Abraham and Sarah (Vems) Maggert, who were both natives of Virginia; he was born May 22, 1790, awl she Sept. 12, 1791. They married in their native State, and, soon after the war of 1812, they and two children emigrated to Ohio, locating on See. 12, Johnson Township, Champaign Co. There Abraham entered eighty acres of land, which he cleared, improved and cultivated until his death, which occurred Dec. 25, 1871 ; his wife preceded him about five years. They were the parents of eight children. Our subject, being one of the five survivors, was born Feb. 1 l. 1826, in Johnson Township, where he was raised to farm life. and obtained a common-school education at that day. His marriage with Emeline Baker was celebrated June 28, 1849, after which he engaged in farming in Jackson Township where he owned a small farm ; one year later,
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he erected a house, and continued to improve it till 1853, when he purchased his present farm, Sec. 26, Johnson Township. This being unimproved, he has since, through industry and energy, cleared up and improved to a good state. Mr. and Mrs. Maggert were the parents of nine children-Sarah E., Mary C., Laura M., Nancy A., Minerva J., James W., Rosa M., Isabella F. (died in infancy), and Taletha A. Mrs. Maggert was born in Fairfield Co., Ohio, in 1827. She is a daughter of Henry and Mary Baker, both natives of Pennsylvania. They came with their parents to the above named county, where they married. They afterward located in Allen Co., where they both died. Seven of their fifteen children are now living.
J. B. MAHAN, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. St. Paris; is a brother of Jason Mahan, whose biography appears in this volume. J. B. was born April 7, 1819, in Bucks Co., Penn.; he reached manhood in his native State. It can be seen in Jason's sketch what year he came West; after which he engaged on his father's farm until Feb. 16, 1845, when he married Esther Alexander, born in 1825, in Bucks Co., Penn.; she came West with her parents, at the age of 14. Her death occurred Oct. 18, 1865, leaving eight children. Mr. Mahan has for years been the owner of one-fourth of Sec. 27, on which he settled and commenced farming soon after* his marriage. He is a successful farmer and stock-raiser; to the latter, he turns his attention more particularly. He raises fine horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, for which he is known throughout the county.
JASON MAHAN, farmer and stock-raiser; Allen's P. O., Miami County; is a grandson of Cornelius Mahan, of Irish parentage, born in Pennsylvania, about the middle of the last century. His wife, Mary Shafer, was of German parentage ; they both endured many hardships in their native State, where they died, at a ripe old age. Cornelius Mahan, Jr. (the father of our subject), was born about 1790, in Pennsylvania, where he grew to majority, and served as a patriot in the war of 1812. After his return be married Deborah Brelsford, a native of Pennsylvania. Cornelius then continued his trade of blacksmith, and in after years connected it with farming. In 1842, he, wife and nine children, emigrated West, crossing the mountains in a two-horse wagon; in which they conveyed their goods to Champaign County, locating in Johnson Township. Cornelius, Jr., bought 240 acres of land on what is now the Piqua & Urbana pike. Additions were made to the original purchase, until it was almost doubled at the date of his death, Sept. 23, 1844. His wife survived until August, 1864, when she, too, passed away. One of their ten children had come West in 1838, and joined them in 1842. Jason Mahan was born in Bucks Co., Penn., Jan. 14, 1823. After coming West, he married, Jan. 12, 1851, Frances Beaver, of Licking Co., Ohio, born October, 1832. Mr. Mahan has been, during life, connected with the saw-mill business, in connection with farming. He has for years been the owner of one-quarter of Sec. 27, Johnson Township; he located on it in 1861, and since 1865 has cultivated it, and raised considerable stock, on which he prides himself. He gives great attention to cattle, hogs and sheep. Mr. and Mrs. Mahan have three living children.
JOHN MILLER, farmer; P. O. Millerstown ; was born in Concord Township, Champaign County, in 1834, and is a son of John, Sr., and Mary Miller, who were both natives of Virginia. They came to Ohio in an early day, where they married and settled, at the grist-mill on Nettle Creek, known as the old Miller's mill. This he ran for a number of years, after which he removed to the place of his death, in Concord Township. His widow now survives. Their children were nine in number, of whom eight are now living. Our subject was raised to agricultural pursuits, and procured his education in the common schools. In 1862, he married Eliza J. Zimmerman, after which be commenced farming for himself on rented land. Five years later, he purchased his present farm of 80 acres, in Sec. 4, Johnson Township, which he cultivates well and has well improved. They have four children-Elmer Mc., Viola M., Rosaltha R. and Mary E.
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J. W. MILLETT, dealer in and manufacturer of harness, St. Paris; born in Twin Township, Darke Co., Ohio, in 1827; his father being a harness-maker, he was raised to his present trade, mostly in Greenville, where he acquired his primary education, which he completed at the Liber College, Indiana. In 1856, he opened a harness establishment in Portland, Jay Co., Ind., where he conducted it for several years; while a resident there, he was appointed County School Examiner; after selling out, he took quite a trip through the Eastern States and Canada, engaging in some of the first-class shops. During the late rebellion, he served 100 days, and was seriously wounded at the battle of Bull Run; be was sent to Tompkins Co., N. Y., where he was cared for until his recovery, after which he returned to his native county and opened a harness - Shop in Dallas; remaining but a short time, he located in St. Paris (1 863), where he has since been conducting his business, with a favorable patronage of the town and surrounding vicinity. Since a resident of St. Paris, he has been instrumental in the general welfare of the business department of the town, having erected several business rooms, which he turned into the hands of go-ahead business men ; he has also held some of the leading offices in the corporation. April 8, 1862, he married Miss Nancy Chambers, a native of Quincy, Logan Co , Ohio; they have had three children-John W., Hattie D. and Frank A. (deceased).
G. M. MINNICH, general merchant, Millerstown. In speaking of the business industries of Millerstown, we mention that of G. M. Minnich, as general merchant, established in 1878. Even though he is a new man in the business circles of the village, by his close business habits, neatness, and the attractive appearance of his store, he has established a healthy trade. Mr. Minnich was born in Millerstown, Johnson Township, in 1850, and raised to farm duties; his education was acquired in the common schools; he now resides with his widowed mother; the parents, Israel and Annie (Buroker) Minnich, were born, he in Virginia, and she in Champaign Co., where their marriage occurred; they were married nearly thirty years, when death separated them, and he was consigned to the silent tomb.
JOSIAH MOTT, retired; P. O. St. Paris; son of Josiah Mott, Sr., who was born in Connecticut about 1759, where he remained until the age of 18, when he enlisted in the war of independence, passing through many privations and hardships. At the close of the war, he was on the present site of Cincinnati, Ohio (Ft. Washington), where he married, and by that union had five children, of whom all are now dead. He married, for his second wife, Eunice Palmer, born in Vermont about 1793; the issue of this union was ten children, of whom eight are now living. During the war of 1812, Josiah Mott, Sr., served in the ranks of the army; as a patriot and soldier, be deserves honorable mention in the list of our country's defenders; his death occurred in 1837. Our subject (the eldest son of the second marriage) was born in Franklin, Warren Co., Ohio, July 30, 1812, where be grew to manhood on the farm, and acquired a limited education in the subscription schools. In the fall of 1831, be married Mary A. Schoby, born in New Jersey, and came West with her parents to Ohio at the age of 3 years; their companionship lasted a period of thirty-five years and five months, when death seized her and she was consigned to the silent tomb; she had fourteen children, of whom eight now survive. In the spring of 1832, Josiah Mott, Jr., located in Clark Co., Ohio, where he was variously engaged until 1836, at which time he commenced farming rented land, and followed the same until 1851, when he bought 80 acres of land in Elizabeth Township, Miami Co.; six years later, he sold out, and located on his present farm, in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, which now consists of 227 1/2 acres; in March, 1875, be purchased his present beautiful home of 17 acres, in the corporation of St. Paris, where he located the following fall, and is now finely situated for life. His second marriage was celebrated Aug. 8, 1869, with Margaret (Greene) McInally, born in Miami Co., Ohio, in 1826. At the date of the last marriage, the family was increased with his wife's children, and they, with his, lived as agreeably as if all were brothers and sisters Mr. Mott has, during his time, attentively cared for
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his two mothers-in-law, one of, whom recently died at the age of 89 years, and one now survives at the age of 79. Thus has be shown a charitable life, which, for years past, has been spent in the practice of the doctrine of the Universalist Church.
ISAAC NICHLES, farmer; P. O. Millerstown; is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Clem) Nichles, who were both natives of Virginia, where they were raised and married. In 1828, they emigrated to Ohio, locating in Licking Co.; one year later, they removed to Champaign Co., locating near Millerstown, Johnson Township, where they passed through many of the pioneer difficulties, which only those who participated in can describe. In 1833, Daniel died, leaving a family of wife and three children. The duty of raising them devolved exclusively upon the mother, which she did with credit to herself and honor to the children, of whom two sons now survive, Noah and Isaac; her death occurred Oct. 15, 1870. Our subject was raised to a farm life, and acquired his education in the common schools. In 1853, he took charge of the home farm, since which be has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, continuing on the old home farm until 1858, when they (he and his mother) located on his present farm of 103 1/2 acres, in See. 4, Johnson Township. He has a fine farm, well improved, and a location second to none in this township for elevation, affording a good view of Bald Knob, in Logan Co., at a distance of 21 miles. Mr. Nichles married April 16, 1861, Miss J. C. Weller, born in Virginia in 1835; they have one son-Willie A.-born June 28, 1863, now a bright and promising young man.
BENJAMIN NORMAN, retired farmer; P. O. Millerstown. Another of the pioneers of Champaign Co. is Benjamin Norman, a grandson of John Norman, who was of German parentage; he lived through many of the wild days of Virginia, where he died. Our subject is a son of Mr. and Mrs. John C. Norman; Mr. Norman was born in Virginia, and she in Maryland; they married in Virginia, early in the nineteenth century, and, in 1805, they emigrated to Ohio, locating on the present site of Millerstown. They were among the first white settlers in what is now Concord Township. He entered a half-section of land, which was all in the unbroken forest. He lived through nearly half a century in Champaign Co., when death seized him and severed him from his wife, who, twelve years later, also passed away. They were the parents of nine children, of whom four are now living, our subject being the eldest. He was born in what is now Concord Township July 16, 1806. He has since resided in the county, and is one among if not its oldest native. ' He lived through the pioneer days of the country, and watched its rise and progress, step by step, for three-fourths of a century. Mr. Norman is worthy of having a complete outline of his life, which we here record, on the pages of the Champaign Co. history. His earliest recollections are of the deep, unbroken forest that surrounded his father's lone log cabin, now supplanted by waving fields of grain. Their first visitors were the troublesome Indians, who have long been exterminated, and the wild animals that roamed the woods, now driven by advancing civilization to seek a home in the Far West. Fine buildings have taken the place of the rude log huts, and many things could here be given that properly belong in the body of this history. At the age of 25, he married Barbara Ward, born in Virginia in 1811 ; after the marriage, he engaged in farming, and, one year later, his father gave him a quarter-section of land, a part of which he yet owns. His first land purchase was made in 1840, since which many changes have been made, and he has nobly assisted his children, six of whom have married, and one remains at home and dutifully assists her parents. Mr. Norman is located on Sec. 7, Johnson Township, where he has devoted considerable attention to the raising of fine stock, which he made a success. Mr. and Mrs. Norman have for many years been consistent members of the Baptist Church, and raised their family in the faith of the same.
JOHN C. NORMAN, of the firm of Norman & Comer, general merchants, Millerstown, a beautiful village located in the east central part of Johnson Township, in Nettle Creek Valley ; like all towns of its size, is represented by one or more general merchants, among whom we mention the firm oŁ Norman & Comer. They formed their
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partnership in 1868, since which they have been favorably known in their line, which consists of dry and fancy goods, groceries, and all articles kept in a general store. The post office is located in their store. John C. Norman is a son of Gabriel Norman, whose biography appears in Concord Township; also a nephew of Benjamin Norman, of Johnson Township, in whose sketch proper mention is made of the ancestors. John C. was born in Concord Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, Jan. 22, 1843 ; raised to farm life, and enjoyed the usual common-school privileges and a short period at the Urbana High School. He engaged in teaching, which he followed several years. March 17, 1868, he married Mary A. Pence, born in Champaign Co., in 1849. They have had two children-Maude, the survivor, and Charles, who died at the age of 5 months.
LEMUEL PENCE, retired farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of David and Barbara (Offenbacker) Pence, both natives of Virginia, where they married. They emigrated to Ohio at an early day, locating in Champaign Co., where he became the owner of several fine farms, which he superintended daring life. His wire died about 1840, and he in 1864. Their children were ten in number, of whom three are now living, Lemuel being the second youngest; he was born in Concord Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1821, and was raised to farm life and obtained a common education. He remained at home and nobly assisted his father until Aug. 5, 1847, when he married Miss Ann Jeffries, after which they commenced housekeeping on the old farm and cultivating the land. Mr. Pence is a practical farmer, and success has accompanied him through life. In 1871, he erected his present commodious and attractive dwelling on Sec. 1, Johnson Township, where he owns a fine farm in connection with other land. His residence is decorated with many attractive ornaments, and is kept in complete order by his noble and worthy wife. They are the parents of three children, viz., Sarah L., born Aug. 8, 1848; Aug. 8, 1864, she married T. P. Kite, and March 1, 1877, death severed their union, and she was consigned to the silent tomb. J. S., born July 30, 1850, received his primary education in the common schools, improved it at college, and is now a resident of Concord Township. The third child, Alice S., was born Oct. 2, 1860, and Jan. 1, 1879, married J. W. Byler. May 25, following, she was called hence by that destructive disease, consumption. Mrs. Pence was born in Butler Co , Ohio, March 8, 1826. On her 54th anniversary, there assembled about fifty persons of a refined class to celebrate the day. The parties came from Urbana, St. Paris and Millerstown. All passed off as merry as a wedding bell. After the big dinner, which all such occasions afford, Mrs. Pence was more completely surprised with numerous presents, among which we mention a gold watch and chain from her devoted husband, and a fine chair from her beloved and only son.
JACOB PENCE, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; son of Jacob and Sarah (Ebert) Pence, both natives of Virginia. They emigrated in their youthful days to Johnson Township, Champaign Co., where they married. They soon after became the owners of 80 acres , of land (in Sec. 6, Johnson Township) which they took from its wilds to a good state of cultivation and improvement. During life, Jacob Pence, Sr., devoted most of his time to his trade of blacksmith, following the same until within a few years of his death, which occurred in August, 1857. His third wife now survives at the advanced age of 73. Jacob, Sr., was the father of ten children, of whom four are now living. Jacob, Jr., our subject, was born in Johnson Township in 1828, where he has ever since resided. He was raised to farm life and obtained a limited education. In 1849, he married Mahala Offenbacker, after which he engaged in farming for himself in the spring and summer months, and during the fall and winter months he was engaged in threshing. Mr. Pence started in life on a mere nothing, and by his own exertions has accumulated until he now owns a fine farm of 262 acres in a good location and well im proved. Mr. and Mrs. Pence are the parents of seven children, of whom six are now living.
WILLIAM F. PENCE, farmer; P. O. St. Paris. His father, Fredrick Pence was born in Virginia, where he was drafted in the war of 1812. He married, in his
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native State, Amelia Jenkins, and, in 1819, when the Pence emigration came from Virginia they, too, were a part of its company. On reaching Champaign Co. they settled near Millerstown, in Johnson Township. Fredrick erected a grist-mill at the head of Mosquito Lake. This he ran for years. On Feb. 2, 1836, after a stay in the newly settled country of nearly one score years, he passed away. His wife followed about 1862. Nine children were born to them, of whom William F. is the youngest and only one left to put on record the untold history of his father's family. He was born in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Feb. 11, 1830 ; he has always been a resident of the county; his father dying when he was but a child, and the duty of rearing the family devolved mainly upon the mother. In 1850, William F. married Emiline Pence, born in Clark Co., Ohio, 1833, and died April 15, 1877. Nine of their eleven children are now living. After the above marriage, W. F. settled on his father's farm. A few years thence rented until 1861, when he located on his present farm of 80 acres, in Sec. 28, Johnson Township. This he has mostly cleared up and has under a good state of cultivation and improvement.
ELI PENCE, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Samuel Pence, born in Champaign Co., where he was raised through the early part of the nineteenth century, many privations being connected with his life. He married about 1825, to Mary A. Howard, a native of this State. After a companionship of some years, he died and left nine children. Mary A. still survives; has married and buried her second husband, by whom she had four children. Eight of her thirteen children now survive. Eli was born in Johnson Township Jan. 20, 1842, and was left fatherless when but a child; he then fell into the hands of some of his relatives, by whom he was properly cared for until Aug. 4, 1862. At this time the great crisis of our country was raging, and he entered Co. H, 45th O. V. I, serving to the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio. During his military life, he participated in the battles of Knoxville, Tenn. ; Loudon, Tenn. ; the battle of Resaca, Ga., where he was slightly wounded in the right shoulder, and many other battles of minor importance. On March 4, 1866, after his return from the service, he married Rachel A. Sroufe. One year later he located on what is now his farm. This he has since purchased by degrees, and now owns a well-im proved grain farm. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Pence are Orlando, William F., Samuel C., Mary E. and Emma A. Mrs. Pence was born on their present farm, and is a daughter of George O. Sroufe, who was a prominent pioneer of this township.
ELLIOTT PENCE, teacher, Millerstown; son of Barney and Jane (Morris) Pence, was born Jan. 24, 1848, and is one of a family of eight children, five by first wife, Jane, above mentioned, to whom his father was married in 1836, and three by second marriage, to Margaret Johnson in 1852. We mention them in the following order, viz., Benjamin F., John Wesley, Elliott, James H. T. and Nancy Jane by first marriage; and by second wife three girls, of whom :Mary and Jenny are now living. Elliott was married Nov. 24, 1870, to Barbara A. Hanback, by whom he has two boys, Victor Augustus and Homer. The Pence family is a large one, and figures conspicuously in the annals of Champaign Co. We are indebted to the subject of this sketch for a brief record of the family. The paternal grandfather, Jacob Pence, was born in Buckingham Co., Va., and married Eve Prince, of the same county and State. Seven children were born to them, three boys-Peter, William and Barney (the latter being the father of our subject), and four girls-Anna, Polly, Betsy and Susie. With his family he removed in 1819 to Ohio, occupying a month in making the journey, and settled on Owen's Creek in Champaign Co. All the children reached maturity, married and struck out for themselves. In the following order: Anna became the wife of Jesse Jenkins ; Peter married Sarah Dosh; William married Susan Hoak; Betsy became the wife of Jacob Miller; Polly, the wife of Fredrick Dosh; and lastly, Barney married Jane Morris, as previously noted. Barney Pence settled in Concord Township, where he still resides, never moved but once, and has never voted outside of said township.
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LAMBERT POND, St. Paris, President First National Bank of St. Paris; was born in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1828, and is a son of Samuel and Eleanor (Service) Pond. Samuel was born in Philadelphia, Penn., about 1798, and Eleanor in Hamilton Co., Ohio, in 1806, where their marriage occurred in 1825. They soon after moved to Jackson Township, Champaign Co., where they passed through the pioneer days of the county. He died at the age of 45 and she at 48. They were the parents of eight children, of whom our subject is the eldest. He was raised to farm life and acquired his education in district schools. Lambert, being but a boy at the death of his father, with brave heart and stout hands nobly assisted in caring for the family. At about this time, he commenced teaching, which he chiefly continued until 1872, though, in the meantime, he devoted a few years to merchandising, in Springfield, Ohio, and Millerstown, Champaign Co. In 1874, he became cashier in the bank of Brubaker & McMorran, of St. Paris, which, in 1877, changed to the Citizens' Bank, where he remained until April, 1880, when he retired from the position. Since then, the bank of which he is now the President has been organized, in which he has been an able manager. In 1851, he married Miss Priscilla, daughter of Rev. Moses Frazee, Jr., a man of prominence in this vicinity. She, three years later, was consigned to the silent tomb, leaving one child-James L. Mr. Pond married for his second wife Miss Margaret Neff, of Clark Co., Ohio. Four children have been born to them-Charles L., W. F., Anna R. and Joseph L.
JACOB POORMAN, retired farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Daniel and Mary A. (Greenwalt) Poorman, both natives of Pennsylvania, where they matured and married, probably in 1812. Ten years later, they and five children emigrated to Perry Co., Ohio, and, in 1826, they pressed onward to Harrison Township, Champaign Co., where they purchased a farm and cultivated it until within a few years of his death, which occurred in Johnson Township, his wife having passed away previous to him. Our subject being the third child of a family of eight children, of whom four are now living. He was born in the year 1818, in Lancaster Co., Penn. Since 1826 he has been a resident of this county, where he was raised and schooled, in the pioneer days of the county, passing through many privations and hardships, that can be described by only those who experienced the trials of those days. In March, 1841, he married Julia Ann Kesler. Two years later she died, leaving husband and one child-Daniel. June 28, 1844, Jacob married for his second wife Nancy Nicbols, born in 1824. Soon after the first marriage Jacob began farming for himself on the home farm, then rented in Johnson Township, where he, in 1849, purchased seventy acres of big present farm, to which he has added until he owns 120 acres in Sec. 26, which has since under gone great changes and is now a fine grain and stock farm, operated well.Mr. and Mrs. Poorman were the parents of eleven children, of whom ten are now living-Sarah E., Philip (deceased, Barbara J., David, William, Julian, John L., Jacob A., Minerva E., George N. and James A.
DANIEL POORMAN, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; was born in 1842, in Jackson Township, Champaign County, and is a son of Jacob Poorman. Daniel was raised to farm life, chiefly in Johnson Township, and his education was acquired in the common schools. In June, 1861, he married Susan Pence, and engaged in farming for himself as renter; thus he continued until 1864, when he bought 53 acres in Section 20, which he cultivated until 1877, when he sold it with a view of getting a larger farm, which he accomplished, and now owns 811 acres in Section 21, Johnson Township. He is an enterprising farmer and well-to-do citizen of the county. To this union six children have been born, of whom three now survive. Mrs. Poorman was born in Johnson Township in 1840, and is a sister to Eli Pence.
HENRY PUTNAM, retired farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Zachariah and Winafred (Collins) Putnam, who were both born in old Virginia, soon after the war of Independence. When but children, they, with their parents, were taken to Kentucky, and grew to maturity in the early days of that State, and married. In 1816, they and
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six children emigrated to Ohio, Henry being born one year previous; they settled in Mad River Township, Champaign County, and five years later located in Jackson Township, where Zachariah purchased a farm of 100 acres; this, he, by the assistance of his noble family, took to a good state of cultivation. In 1845, Winafred was called hence, being the mother of nine children ; ten years later, Zachariah, too, passed away. Our subject was raised through the pioneer days of Champaign County on his father's farm, enduring many privations and early-day hardships. Where at that time the handiwork of nature stood in all its grandeur, to-day are seen waving, fields of grain, and fine buildings have taken the place of the rude log huts. These changes are to a great extent due to the pioneers of this county, of whom Mr. Putnam is one. His first wife was Mary A. Davis, with whom he lived six years; death severing their union, he married Margaret Wolgamuth, a native of Jackson Township,. Champaign County, born about 1831. He remained on the old home farm until 1860, at which time he sold his interest and purchased his present farm of 143 acres in Johnson Township, whereon he located and cultivated until 1870, when he retired from its duties, leaving the farm in the hands of his sons, who are three in number. They also have three daughters, all are now living.
C. W. REED, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Thomas J. and Rachel (Canine) Reed; he was a native of Pennsylvania and she of New Jersey. They came to Ohio in an early day, locating in Union Co., where they married, after which they located in Delaware Co., where Rachel died in August, 1829. Thomas J. married for his second wife Lydia (Orton) Peck ; they soon after came to Champaign Co., and remained residents of the same until 1848, when they located in Logan Co., where Thomas died, over threescore years of age; his widow still survives. Thomas J. was the father of twelve children, seven of whom were born to his second wife. Our subject was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1822, and was raised to farm life in various families after the death of his mother. In 1844, he married Phebe Comer, born in Johnson Township in 1825. After his marriage he engaged in farming for himself in Johnson Township, where he has since followed the same upon a complete plan. His real estate amounts to 293 acres under good cultivation. The offices of public trust in his care have been Township Trustee, Supervisor and School Director, the former of which he now fills. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Reed are ten in number, of whom six are living-Adam, John T., William V., Philip M., Sarah A. and George B.
EMMET V. RHOADS, County Treasurer, St. Paris. Was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Feb. 2, 1847, and when but 5 years old his parents located in Champaign Co., Ohio, where he was mostly raised and acquired a common education. In 1865, be commenced teaching; this remained his pursuit until 1869, in which year he engaged as clerk in a hardware store in St. Paris, which received his attention until 1875. In the meantime, Feb. 24, 1870, lie married Serena, daughter of George W. and Peninah Kite. She was born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Aug. 17, 1843, and has had born to her three children-Allie V., Oliver W. and Grace A. When Mr. Rhoads was 28 years of age, he was appointed as Internal Revenue Store-keeper, which position he filled with honor and success until March 8, 1879, when he was appointed by the County Commissioners to the office of County Treasurer (which term expired Sept. 1, 1880). During his official duty, he filled the position with honor to himself, and is now prominently identified in the county, and is one who manifests great interest in the welfare of the town in which he resides (St. Paris) in the educational and general elevation and progress, and at present is a member of the School Board and Council. Since May 16, 1868, he has been a member of the I. O. O. F., in which he within two years there after rose to "Past Grand," being prominently identified: in its duties since, and has filled the office of D. D. G. M. three years, and at present represents his district in the Grand Lodge of Ohio. In April, 1869, he became a member of the Champaign Encampment, No. 29, Urbana, Ohio, in which he remained until July, 1871, when, through his effort and management, the Russell Encampment, No. 141, was organized
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at St. Paris. In this organization he was first elected Senior Warden, and later Chief Patriarch," thence Scribe, in which capacity he served seven years. During this time, served as Trustee, two years as D. D. G. P., and two years as representative to the Grand Encampment of Ohio. In May, 1872, became a member of Minneola Tribe. No. 37, I. 0. R. M. at Urbana, Ohio, and now, after receiving all its degrees, is still a member. In January, 1875, he joined Columbus Lodge, No. 3, K. P., Columbus, O., and has taken all its degrees, and remained a member until 1879, when he withdrew and united with Lauacelot Lodge, No. 107, K. P., Urbana, Ohio, where he now holds his membership. In 1872, was made a Master Mason in Pharos Lodge, No. 355, F. & A. M. ; was that year elected Secretary, and filled that position several years, since which he has filled the offices of S. W. and W. M. In 1873, was made a Royal Arch Mason in St. Paris Chapter, No. 132, R. A. M., and, on the night of his exaltation, was elected Secretary, in which he served one year ; thence elected Principal Sojourner. One year later, Dec. 7, was elected as H. P., in which office he has since served. He represented the Chapter in the Grand Chapter of Ohio seven years, and is a member of the Council, Royal and Select Masters of Urbana, Ohio. The enterprise of the First National Bank of St. Paris was organized in June, 1880, at which time he was elected its Cashier.
SAMUEL RHYNARD, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Peter Rhynard, born March 30, 1801, in Preble Co., Ohio, and raised through the pioneer privations of that county. In 1826, he married Mary Martindale, born Sept. 10, 1808, in Miami Co., Ohio. They soon after settled on a farm in Adams Township, Darke Co., Ohio, taking it from its wilds to a high state of cultivation and improvement. She died, April 8, 1862, and he, June 1, 1873. Nine of their eleven children now survive. The subject of this sketch was born May 28, 1827, in Adams Township, Darke County, where he grew to manhood and nobly assisted in opening out his father's farm. At the age of 20, he engaged in the harness trade in his native county ; after completing his trade, he followed journey work in Dayton, Covington and other points until March, 1851, when he opened the first shop of its kind in St. Paris, and conducted it three years. On Dec. 12, 1852, he married Mary McKinley. In 1856, he emigrated to Benton Co., Iowa, with the anticipation of permanently settling, but, not liking the country, he returned, in the fall of 1857, to Champaign County, and rented land for several years, since which he has bought and sold land, and new owns a fine farm of 180 acres, on which he is well situated. It is well adapted to grain and stock, both of which receive due attention. Mrs. Rhynard was born July 5, 1835, and died Sept. 24, 1878. She was the mother of six children-William A., Sarah E., Peter, George W., Albert and Ira E.
J. F. RIKER, gardener; P. O. St. Paris. Another of the noteworthy enterprises of St. Paris is the fruit and vegetable garden of J. F. Riker, which is a new and only feature of its kind in Johnson Township. He commenced in 1878, on a small scale, and since then great changes in style and size have taken place in his garden, to which he closely devotes his time. He was born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, in 1828, and for the last half-century he has been a resident of Champaign County, where he was raised and educated. A portion of his life has been devoted to teaching. In the spring of 1852, he went to California, by the overland route; his object was moneymaking, in which he was unsuccessful, but the trip greatly improved his delicate health. He returned in the fall of 1853; the following year he married Eliza Lichliter, born in Virginia, in 1832; they have three children-one son, F. E., and two daughters, Carrie B. and Emma. In 1862, he enlisted in Co. E, 113th O. V. I., serving two years, during which time he was remarkably fortunate, never participated in any battles, therefore returned home uninjured. Since his return he has been elected as Mayor of St. Paris a number of terms, which office he was the first to hold after the incorporation of the town.
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H. SAYLER, manufacturer of carriages and buggies, St. Paris. Like all towns of its size, St. Paris is represented with various branches of industry. Mr. Saylor was born near Springfield, Ohio, in 1835, and raised to farm life; his education was procured in the common schools; being left fatherless when but a boy, he, as the oldest son, had much of the family duty devolving upon him, which he bore with brave heart and stout hands. At the age of 18 he commenced his trade in New Carlisle; three years later, he opened business for himself in Clark County, and, in 1859, he located in St. Paris, being the second factory of its kind in the county. Here he at first labored under some disadvantages and a heavy loss by fire, but, by perseverance and close business habits, he has progressed until he now runs a first-class carriage and buggy manufactory. His experience of twenty-five years enables him to superintend the same with perfect success. He takes special pride in buying good material and employing men of competent ability to execute the work. Mr. Sayler is the patentee of several valuable fixtures to buggies, which are extensively used on his buggies. They are the Patent Cast-steel Fifth Wheel, and Patent Top-Lever, and can be seen at his factory, on Springfield street, near depot. Mr. Sayler, while a resident of St. Paris, has been a member of the Town Council, and at the organization of the First National Bank of St. Paris, in the spring of 1880, he was elected Vice President. December 25, 1860, his marriage was celebrated with Miss Lucinda C. Heaston, of Clark Co.. Ohio, born in 1835. The fruits of this union are Albert R. and Emma C.
J. T. SCHOOLER, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a great-grandson of William and Mar. garet (Jones) Schooler. He was of Scotch parentage, born in Pennsylvania about 1735, and she was also a native of Pennsylvania and of Welsh parentage. In after years, they located in Kentucky, where Margaret died, after which William and family emigrated to Logan Co., Ohio, where he died. J. T. is a grandson of Benjamin and Margaret (Jones) Schooler. They were both natives of Pennsylvania, and married in Kentucky. Henceforward, from 1807, he was a resident of Logan Co., Ohio; serving as a patriot of the war of 1812, filling a Captain's position through the entire struggle. In 1813, while in military duty, his wife was called away. He died in 1831. He was twice married, having six children by each companion. J. T. is a son of E. J. and Rachel (Cox) Schooler ; he is a native of Logan Co., Ohio, born 1809, and she of Greene Co., Penn. He spent sixty-six years in his native township, and in the 22d year of his age he married. His life has been that of a farmer, witnessing and participating in many of the pioneer days of his native county. His last and only permanent change through life was that from Logan Co. to his present location in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., where he has resided since September, 1874. Our subject, J. T., was born Sept. 5, 1844, in Logan Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood on his father's farm and acquired a common school education. In 1866, he married Sarah J. McMorran and settled on the farm where he was raised, remaining on the same and cultivating it until 1874, when he located on his present farm of 100 acres in Johnson Township, See. 20. They have three children-Lizzie C. M., Even T. and John Me. Mrs. Schooler is a daughter of John and Sidney McMorran and a niece of Capt. S. T. McMorran.
JASPER SCOTT, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Allen's, Miami Co.; is a son of Asa and Mary (White) Scott; the former was born and raised in Trenton, N. J., where he enlisted in the war of 1812-15, serving to its close; returned home and married. His wife was burn and raised in Pennsylvania, near the Delaware River. They remained in the East until 1832, when he, wife and four children came West to Brown Township, Miami Co. They crossed the mountains in a two-horse wagon. On settling in the above-named township, he took a lease and worked bard to clear it up. He removed near Lena, same township, where they remained until 1839, when he bought 174 acres in Johnson Township, Champaign Co., and settled in the woods, cleared and improved it. This he cultivated until his death, which occurred during the late war. While plowing in the field, he seated himself on the plow-beam to rest. In a few minutes after he was seized with heart disease, and he passed into eternity; his wife sur-
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vived until January, 1879, when she, too, passed away. Our subject was born in 1825 in New Jersey, and at the age of 7 years came west with his parents. His education was obtained in the common schools. In 1856. he began life for himself in Adams Township, where he continued eighteen years, though one year after commencing in life he unfortunately had his thigh broken, and, through the incompetence of the attending physician, it has left him a cripple for life. In the year 1874, he moved from his farm in the above-named township to the old farm which he now owns. It is a fine grain and stock farm. His marriage was celebrated with Sarah C. W. Cory in 1856; after a united life of thirteen years, death seized her. She was the mother of three children, of whom one, Asa, now survives; he was born Aug. 24, 1857. Sarah was born in New York State, and came West with her parents in an early day. They settled in Brown Township, Miami Co., where the father died. The mother survived several years. Sept. 15, 1869, Jasper married Sarah J. Pardington, a native of Shelby Co., Ohio. Two years later, she, too, was called hence, Aug. 3, 1871.
REV. J. W. SCOTT, Pastor of the Regular Baptist Church, St. Paris; was born in Allegheny Co., Penn., in 1850, and, when but a child, he, with his parents, moved to Washington Co., Penn., where he acquired his primary education in the common schools. At the age of 20, he attended a normal school, and soon after commenced teaching, and two years later he entered the ministerial profession, after which he was in attendance at the Pleasant Hill Seminary, Monongahela College and Crozier's Theological Seminary. In 1877, he went from school, continuing his pastoral labors; locating in Kingsbury, Ind., where he faithfully labored until January, 1879, when he located in Covington, Miami Co., Ohio, and, in December following, he accepted his present situation, where he has charge of a large and attentive congregation. Though Rev. Scott is but a young man in his profession, he is a live and industrious worker. In September, 1877, his marriage was solemnized, in Delaware Co., Penn., with Miss Ids E. Springer, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1858. They have one child, Ethel E.
JONATHAN SHAWVER, carpenter and builder; P. O. St. Paris; born in what is now Carroll Co., Ohio, in 1821, and is a son of Daniel and Mary E. (Shultz) Shawver; he .was a native of Pennsylvania, and she of Maryland; they married in Ohio, early in the nineteenth century. In 1833, be and his family, save the eldest son, located in Logan Co., Ohio, where Daniel purchased 300 acres of land, to which he added until he had a sufficient amount to give each of his children 80 acres or its equivalent. They were fourteen in number, all of whom reached maturity and married. All save two were living when Daniel died, at the age of 84 years; and three years later his wife passed away at the age of 83. Our subject is the seventh son; he was raised to farm-life and acquired his education in the common schools, and remaining at home until 21, when he commenced carpentering, in which he was well known. In the meantime, he took, in connection, the stonemason trade, which he made a success. In 1864, he purchased 90 acres of his present farm in Sec. 12, Johnson Township, to which he has since added 131 acres ; this is under a good state of cultivation and improvement. Mr. Shawver has one of the finest locations in the township, on which he erected good buildings, doing all but the plastering himself. He is a man of genius,and success has accompanied him through life. Dec. 2, 1852, he married Sarah Apple, a native Champaign Co., Ohio, born in 1832. They have three children-Mary C., wife of M. L. Lemman ; Solomon A. and Amanda M. Mr. and Mrs. Shawver have for years been members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and raised their children in harmony with its principles.
CHARLES SLACK, farmer; P. O. Allen's, Miami Co.; born in September, 1816, in Pennsylvania; his father, Cornelius, was born in the same State in 1773, and his mother, Achsah Graham, also a native of the Keystone State, was born in 1780, remaining in Pennsylvania until 1830. They and four children emigrated West, locating on Sec. 32, Johnson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio; the original land purchased by Cornelius being 87 acres ; he gradually rose through life, and at his death, in 1856, he
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had 194 acres under a good degree of improvement. His wife survived to the age of fourscore years and more. Charles was a lad of 14 when he came West with his parents. He enjoyed the privileges of the common schools only, and remained his father's assistant until May, 1842, when he married Sarah Sills. Six years later the death messenger called her hence. She was near her husband's age; she left one child, Cornelius; her husband, afterward married Ruffina Offenbacher, a native of Virginia. They have three children living. At the date of his first marriage, he located on his present farm, for which his father afterward made him a deed. This he has cultivated since; has it under a good tillable state and well improved. He is a well-to-do farmer of Johnson Township.
S. M. SLUSSER, farmer; P. O. St. Paris; is a son of Peter and Mary (McFadden) Slusser. He was born in 1790, in Virginia, and she in 1801, in Pennsylvania. They both came West with their parents in the days of their youth, settling in Montgomery Co., where they married, remaining in Montgomery Co. until 1833, when they located on the farm now owned by S. M. Through his own industry and the assistance of his family, he reclaimed it from its wild state, and brought it under good cultivation, tilling it until his death, June 13, 1851. His wife now survives and resides in the county where she first settled in Ohio. The children of Peter and Mary were four in number, of whom three are now living. Our subject, the eldest, was born in 1829, in Miami Co. He was raised to agricultural pursuits, mostly on his present farm. In 1856, he married Louisa Jenkins, a native of Champaign Co., Ohio, born in 1829. He then commenced farming on his present farm, and at the death of his father obtained his interest, and has since by intervals purchased the remainder, now possessing the homestead, 47 acres, in Sec. 32, Johnson Township. Their children are three in number-Mary E., John H. and Cory F.
J. W. SMOOT, stock-raiser and retired farmer; P. O. Tawawa, Shelby Co.; is a son of Jacob G. and Catherine (Shank) Smoot. Jacob was a native of Hampshire Co., W. Va., and Catherine, of New Jersey. Their marriage was celebrated soon after the war of 1812. They immediately emigrated to Ohio, locating on Sugar Creek, Montgomery Co. Jacob G. lived a renter through life, and made frequent changes. At the time of his death, April, 1850, he was a resident of Green Township, Shelby Co., Ohio. His wife still survives at the age of fourscore and six years. Eight children were given to their marriage, of whom five now survive. J. W., the third child, was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1822. He was raised to farm life and acquired a medium education, which was governed by privileges. His wife, Jemima Dorsy, was born in the year 1829, in Shelby Co., Ohio. Their marriage occurred in 1847, and he continued farming as renter until 1850, when he purchased 44 acres of his present farm, all in the unbroken forest. This he has brought to a good state of cultivation, and added to it until he now owns 200 acres of well-improved land in this and Shelby Co. J. W. has for several years past turned his attention to stock-raising, in which he takes a pride. Mr. and Mrs. Smoot are the parents of six children, of whom four are now living, viz., Sarah C., wife of Dr. C. Offenbacher. Mary L. B., wife of David Mahan ; Eva A. and Ora E.
SOLOMON SNAPP, retired farmer; P. O. Millerstown ; was born Dec. 18, 1825, in Montgomery Co., Ohio, and is a son of Daniel and Margaret (Barnhart) Snapp. Our subject was raised to farm life in this county, and obtained his education in the district schools. In 1847, he commenced life for himself by engaging in farming. One year later he married Emiline Pressler, a native of Montgomery Co., but raised in Indiana. After his marriage, he farmed his grandfather's place one year, when he purchased 100 acres of his present farm, Sec. 10, Johnson Township, where he has since resided. Through industry and proper management, he has since added to it until he now owns 240 acres, which is in a fine state of cultivation, and he superintends it with good success. Mr. Snapp is a man of social ability, and a decided Democrat.
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VALENTINE SNIDER, retired farmer; P. O. Millerstown ; was born in Virginia in 1793, and raised to farm life. His education was obtained in the subscription schools. In 1818, he married Catherine Martz, a native of Virginia, born in 1795. They remained in their native State until 1825, when they moved to Ohio, locating in Greene Co. Ten years later, they removed to Champaign Co. and purchased 105 acres of his present farm in Section 3, Johnson Township, to which he has since added until be now owns 178 acres, which is mostly under cultivation. This he cultivated himself, with the assistance of his five sons, until 1870, when he retired from its duties and is now entrusted to the hands of his children. Mrs. Snider died in 1838, leaving eight children. Mr. Snider has since married his second wife. He is one of the patriots of the war of 1812, having enlisted in Rockingham Co., Va., serving three months through but few difficulties, and is now one of the surviving pensioners of that war. Mr. Snider is a son of Valentine, Sr, and Elizabeth (Wagner) Snider. She was a native of Virginia, and he of Germany. He came to America before the Revolutionary war. His death occurred in Virginia; and his wife died in Ohio (near Dayton). They were the parents of eight children, of whom all save our subject are now deceased, he being the only one left to relate the incidents and genealogy of the Snider family.
G. W. SNYDER, Superintendent of Public Schools, St. Paris; was born in Marion Co., Ohio, Feb. 22, 1841, where he grew to the age of 17 on the farm, and acquired his elementary education in the district schools. In the fall of 1858, he entered the Hillsdale College, Mich., from which he graduated in 1863, having passed through by his own exertions. In August, 1863, when the great war of the rebellion was raging, he enlisted in Co. H, 82d O. V. I., from which he was honorably discharged in the spring of 1864, on account of poor health. Soon after returning home, he commenced teaching, and, while teaching a village school in Allen Co., Ohio, June 19, 1864, he married, after which he returned to Marion, Ohio, and opened a book and stationery store; this he continued until 1868, when he again took up the profession of teaching, and has had charge of Springfield Academy, Whitley Co., Ind., and other schools of the State. In the spring of 1874, he took charge of the De Graff schools, in Logan Co., Ohio, having conducted other schools in the State up to September, 1877, when he came to St. Paris, where he has since remained. Mr. Snyder, having passed the legal State examinations in Indiana and Ohio, has procured certificates of the same, and can legally teach in either State His ability enabled him to raise the schools of St. Paris from a low standard to a good condition. He has a high-school course, embracing a good graduating standard, from which eleven pupils have passed since his coming to St. Paris. The average attendance of his school the last year was 200 in five departments.
TOMLIN & LOSH, hardware and agricultural implements, St. Paris. The above mentioned business, as well as other industries, is well represented in St.. Paris, and, prominent among the citizens of the place who have been instrumental in building up this branch of trade, are the above-named gentlemen. This firm was formed, and established the agricultural implement trade, in 1876. One year later, they placed on their shelves a full and complete line of hardware. Owing to the acquaintanceship of Mr. Tomlin with the farmers in the agricultural implement trade in former years, they soon had a hearty and pleasing patronage. J. C. Tomlin was born in Clark Co., Ohio, in 1844, raised to farm life, and obtained a common-school education. At the age of 18, when the great crisis of our country was raging, be enlisted in Co. I, 8th O. V. C., serving eighteen months; while in service, he was engaged in several battles; was wounded in the battle of Liberty, W. Va., but was one of the fortunate ones to return to his native State, locating in Champaign Co., where he followed carpentering a few years, then engaged in the agricultural implement trade, in which his entire attention has since been occupied. In 1860, he married Mary E. Baker, of Champaign Co., Ohio; the issue of this union was six children, of whom two are now living.
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G. W. VERDIER, liveryman, St. Paris. In speaking of the business men of St. Paris, we give a personal sketch of G. W. Verdier. He was born in Shelby Co., Ohio, in 1848, and raised to farm life; he obtained his education in the common schools. In 1867, he married Eliza Miover, three years his junior, born in Shelby Co.; he then rented a farm and commenced agricultural pursuits; this farm he afterward bought; in 1875, he sold it, and now owns a fine farm of 80 acres in Jackson Township, Champaign Co., Ohio, which he has rented. In 1873, he located in St. Paris and opened out a livery stable; he is a man of experience and close observation, and keeps a good livery stable ; he is located on East Main street; here he has everything neatly and comfortably arranged; he does not aim to keep as large a stock of horses as city liverymen, but what he has are good, as are also his carriages and buggies. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Verdier are Eva O. and Jennie B.
MARTIN WELLS, retired farmer; P. O. Allen's, Miami Co.; he is a son of William and Phoebe (Hudleston) Wells; he was born near the close of the eighteenth century, in Kentucky, where he grew to majority; thence he went to Phoebe's native State, Virginia, and married; in 1834, they and eleven children emigrated from Virginia to Jackson Township, Champaign Co., where the twelfth child was born to them. William engaged in farming in his newly settled home, which he followed through life; his death occurred about 1842, and his wife died five years later. Mr. Martin was born Nov. 12, 1817, in Virginia, and, when 17 years of age, he, with his parents, emigrated to Ohio, where he matured and has since resided. In December, 1838, he married Pamelia Flowers and began farming as renter; in 1845, he purchased a small lot of land, and, three years later, changed it (with difference in cash) for his present farm of 100 acres, in Sees. 30 and 36, Johnson Township; this is under good cultivation and improvement, and he is comfortably situated for life. Mr. and Mrs. Wells are the parents of ten children, of whom seven now survive. Mrs. Wells was born -in 1820, in Pennsylvania, and, in 1834, she, with her parents, George and Elizabeth (Everett) Flowers, emigrated from New Jersey to Champaign Co., where her parents lived and died-George at a medium age, and, a few years later, his wife, too, passed into the silent sleep.
D. M. WHITMER, physician, Millerstown. Among the medical profession of Millerstown, we record the name of D. M. Whitmer, who was born May 27, 1849, in Shelby Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood on his father's farm, and acquired his elementary education in the common schools, after which he was in attendance at the Sidney High School, the county seat of Shelby Co. Dr. Whitmer, during life, has devoted seven years to the teacher's profession, during which time he was engaged in reading medicine. In June, 1875, he graduated from the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery. May 13 of the same year, he married Miss Rachel Key, and, July 9 following, located in Millerstown, where he has since been favorably known as a practitioner. Mrs. Whitmer is a daughter of John and Annie Key, and was born in 1852.