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UNION TOWNSHIP.
SAMUEL ALLISON, farmer; P. O. Mutual. The subject of this sketch wag born in Jefferson Co., Va., Dec. 28, 1828; he is a son of Christopher and Elizabeth Allison, both natives of Virginia, who emigrated to this State about the year 1832, stopping in Clark Co. for a short time, and finally locating in this county, where they remained to the time of their deaths, some fifteen or twenty years ago. They were parents of twelve children, eight boys and four girls. Samuel Allison spent his boyhood on the farm, and was educated in the the common schools of his day. Since arriving at maturity, he has followed the avocation of his boyhood, which he fully understands, and to which he is attached. He has been twice married; first in 1850, to Lucy Reed, who bore him five children-Emma C., Samuel K., George R., Robert T. and William D. She died in 1863. He celebrated his second marriage with Cynthia Ann Shepherd, Oct. 1, 1868; two children are the result of this union, viz., Clifford and Grace Elizabeth. Five of his children are living, two at home, the others in " neighboring cities. His farm consists of 168 acres, well adapted to the raising of grain, which is his chief occupation.
GEORGE H. BALDWIN, miller; P. O. Urbana. The subject of this sketch was born in Pennsylvania Jan. 11, 1844; he is a son of Joshua and Mary Baldwin, natives of Pennsylvania. Joshua was a farmer, giving his attention entirely to that business; he came to this county in 1871, and is the father of seven children, all living. George H. passed his boyhood on the farm in a manner incident to youth. In 1865, he came to this State and located in Clark Co., in which he followed the business of milling. In 1871, he came to this county, and since has given his undivided attention to one of the most complete and extensive mills in this county, having a working capacity of about twenty thousand bushels per annum. He is a gentleman thoroughly educated in his business, which, taken in conjunction with the reputation of his mill, makes him a contemporary whose competition is felt. Though but a resident of the county for a comparatively short time, he has built up an extensive trade, receiving the hearty support of an appreciative public. April 11, 1867, he was joined in wedlock to Margaret E. McConkey, by whom he has had three children, one living-George M.
SAMUEL BARNETT, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of Butler Co., Ohio, born Oct. 4, 1831; he is a son of Samuel and Mary Mitchell Barnett, natives of Dauphin Co., Penn.; they came to this State in 1817 and located in Warren Co.; afterward lived in Butler for several years, then, in 1841, came to Clark Co., settling in Springfield, where he remained to the time of his death, May 10, 1869 ; he was a farmer in his earlier years, afterward a miller, being one of the men who established the hydraulic at Springfield, the inaugural step toward making it one of the first manufacturing towns in Western Ohio. He was the father of ten children-James, Susanna, David M., Mary, William A., Levi, Nancy A., Sarah, George W. and Samuel. All are living but Susanna and David M., being scattered over different parts of the country from Ohio to Kansas. The subject of this sketch was reared on the farm, and educated chiefly at Springfield. After arriving at maturity, he commenced farming in this county on the place where he now lives, consisting of 167 acres, all under cultivation or in pasture, 'where he carries on mixed farming. In October, 1855, he married Mary Campbell. They were parents of five children, four of whom-John C., Carrie B., Mary L. and Laura L., are living and at home, and Fannie M., deceased.
STEPHEN BEATY, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of this township, born in 1822; he is a son of Miles C. and Anna Beaty. Miles C. was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., and, when 2 years old, his parents moved to Kentucky. In 1806, he came to this State and located on Buck Creek. He afterward attended the mill at Taylortown, having learned the trade of his father; then went to Lagonda and milled for old
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Gen. Kenton. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Finally, he purchased the farm on which Stephen and his sisters now live. His wife, Miss Runyon, was one of the earliest settlers of this section ; when she came to the State, there was but one house in Urbana. During the latter years of his life, Mr. Beaty followed farming. He was esteemed by the people, and held varions offices of trust and profit; he was County Commissioner, Assessor and Justice of the Peace for six or seven terms. He was strictly honest, and did his business in such a way as to need no administrator. He died in June, 1861. His wife survived him six years. Stephen and his sisters (first four, now only three) came into the possession of the farm by buying the other brothers out, and continue to make it their home, sharing each other's pleasures and possessions. They are all members of the United Presbyterian Church, and are consistent working Christians.
BENJAMIN F. CHENEY, farmer; P. O. Mutual. The subject of this sketch is a native of this county, born Nov. 2, 1829. He is a son of Benjamin and Sarah Cochran Cheney, both natives of Harrison Co., Va. Benjamin Cheney emigrated to this county in 1805, in company with his three brothers, William, Ebenezer and Jonathan, all settling in this county. He was the father of nine children-eight boys and one girl ; only three are now living, John, near La Fayette, Ind., Samuel and our subject, in this township. Mr. C. has followed farming all his life, dealing largely in cattle, with which he is very successful. His farms consist of 296 acres, nearly all under good improvement and well supplied with springs and their branches, affording the finest facilities for raising stock. Feb. 16, 1858, he married Mary E. Little. They are parents of five children-Oscar L., Verden E., Alice B. and Pearl E., are living and are all at home ; Earl A. died in infancy. Mrs. Cheney is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
JACOB CONKLYN (deceased). The subject of this memoir was a native of Jefferson Co., Va, born July 14, 1810. He was a son of Henry and Mary Conklyn. His father died in Virginia when Jacob was only 15 years old; he then learned the trade of blacksmith, and in 1834 came to this State in company with his mother and eight brothers and sisters, finally locating, in 1838, in this county, where they remained till the time of his death, his mother living near him until her death, which occurred in 1847. Mr. C. followed the profession of blacksmith and carried on a farm at the same time till within the last ten years, when his health became so poor that he was obliged to abandon the trade as a business, and devoted his entire attention to the farm. He was a class leader in the Methodist Episcopal Church for more than thirty years, and was a consistent and exemplary Christian gentleman, always interested in the general welfare of the community. He was sober and upright, open-hearted and fondly attached to his family and friends. He was called from this life Feb. 8, 1880. Mrs. Conklyn remains on the farm with her son Jacob H. H. Mr. Conklyn was the father of eight children, four of whom are living. His marriage was celebrated with Miss Emily Hedges, Oct. 25, 1838.
JAMES L. CRAIN, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; is a native of this county; born on the Pretty Prairie Feb. 24, 1830. He is a son of Louis F. and Clara Phifer Crain. He (Louis F.) came to this State from Fleming Co., Ky., in 1822 or 1823. She came from Greenbrier, Va., a few years earlier. They were parents of three children-Lucinda J., James.L. and Louise C. They are all living in this section, one in Springfield and one in. Urbana. Louis F. owned a large tract of land on the Pretty Prairie, where he followed farming till his death, in 1833. His widow married William Vance, in 1837, and removed to the farm where James L. now lives. Our subject spent his boyhood on the farm and received his education in the common schools and with Prof. Robinson, at Springfield. After attaining his majority, he began farming, which he has followed ever since, in connection with the mill of Baldwin & Crain, of which he is a partner, and the Olive Mills, which he and his stepfather, Mr. Vance, built. He was also engaged in the mercantile business for a few years. In 1856, he was joined in
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wedlock to Martha A. Todd. They are the parents of two children-Clare A. and Caroline J.; both are living at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Crain and one daughter are members of the Presbyterian Church, and are all zealous advocates of the cause of temperance. Mr. Crain has done much to build up the commercial wealth of this section by using his means in mills and other industries, furnishing a home market for the immense wheat crops, and giving employment to men in the manufacture of flour and lumber.
LEONARD W. DEYO, blacksmith, Urbana; is a native of Pickaway Co., Ohio; born May 15, 1837. He is a son of Joseph and Eliza Henderson Deyo. The family was originally from Virginia. Joseph Deyo was a farmer, and the father of ten children, seven of whom are now living. He died when Leonard W. was quite young. Our subject was raised on the farm and educated in the common schools. At the age of 14 or 15, he began work at the blacksmith's trade, which he followed about eighteen months, after which he farmed till 1861, when the call of his country aroused his patriotism and he enlisted in the 30th O. V. I., under Col. Hugh Ewing. He took part in the battles of Cross Lanes, Va., Antietam, second Bull Run, Vicksburg and Jackson, fighting for several days in routing Jo Johnston at Mission Ridge, the Peach Tree Creek stampede and other lesser battles and skirmishes, winding up at Atlanta, where he was prostrated with sickness and remained unfit for duty for a year. He was discharged in December, 1864. On returning home, he again engaged in farming till 1869, at which time he removed to Missouri and traded in stock for a period of two years, when he returned to Pickaway Co. and opened a blacksmith-shop. He remained there till January, 1874 ; he then came to this county, where he has remained ever since; three years of the time at Catawba Station. In 1865, he was joined in wedlock to Mary Jane Matlock. They are parents of seven children-Charlie W., David, George, Maggie, Mary, Effie and Harry, all of whom are living.
WESLEY DILTZ, farmer; P. O. Cable; is a native of Kentucky. He was born April 22, 1801. At the age of 3 years, he came with his parents to Warren Co., and at the age of 8 or 9 to this county, where he has remained ever since. He is a son of Joseph and Mary Jarrard Diltz-Joseph was a native of New Jersey, of German descent; Mary Jarrard was of English parentage. They were parents of twelve children, six boys and six girls-Susan, John, Joseph, Sallie, Samuel, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Wesley, Cynthia, Jarrard, Wilkinson and Mary-all of whom lived to maturity except Joseph and Mary, he dying of croup at the age of 4, and she dying at 7, probably of king's evil. Joseph Diltz came to this county in 1808 or 1809, and located where he lived to the time of his death, which occurred June 7, 1824, in the 72d year of his age. He was one of the first settlers of this county, coming here when the timid deer and turkey went almost unmolested through the deep forests and dense thickets. Bears were also in abundance, and game of every description easily obtained. Our subject was joined in matrimony to Cynthia Kennard Nov. 22, 1825. They were parents of nine children, three boys and six girls, seven of whom are still living, two little girls-Lavina and Sarah Jane-having died of whooping-cough. Although Mr. Diltz received his education in the old log schoolhouse of his time and was obliged to go three miles to attend, he is an intelligent and interesting old gentleman, and furnishes facts with readiness and ease. He has been a farmer all his life, but has now retired from active pursuits. and is enjoying the fruits of his early labors. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which they have labored for half a century in the cause of the Master.
SAMUEL M. DUNLAP, farmer; P. O. Mutual; was born in this township April 26, 1829. He is a son of John and Ann (Paull) Dunlap, both natives of Virginia, though John came from Kentucky, where he had lived for several years, to this State. They were parents of ten children, eight boys and two girls, one of whom died quite young. Our subject spent his boyhood on a farm in a manner incident to youth, and was educated in the common schools of that day. His father died when he was
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only 15. He was then hired out by his mother until he attained his majority, after which he worked six or seven years on the farm at the enormous price of $8 per month, and, by frugality, saved money even at that. July 14, 1859, he was united in wedlock to Nancy M. Johnson, and began life in earnest, following the profession of farmer. They are parents of five children-Annie E., born May 4, 1860; Mary E., April 15, 1862; John W., Aug. 18, 1864; Charles R., Sept. 16, 1871, and Emma N., March 12, 1880. All are at home with their parents, and enjoying the society of those who are near and dear to them by the ties of nature and affection. His home consists of 51 acres. They are social and kind-hearted people, and generous in their treatment of every one.
LOUIS A. GANSON, farmer and small-fruit grower; P. O. Urbana ; is a native of this township, born Feb. 26, 1839. He is a son of Francis and Mary A. (Allen) Ganson. Francis was a native of Chester Co., Penn. He emigrated to this State, in company with his father, in 1833. He is a farmer, living in this township. Our subject spent his boyhood on the farm, and was educated in the common schools. At the age of 21, he began farming for himself in connection with the small-fruit business, which he has followed ever since, except while in the army, being one of the largest grape-growers in the county. Aug. 11, 1862, when the flag of our country was in danger and patriotic hearts went out in sympathy, he left home and family and everything that makes life desirable, feeling that he owed his first duty to his country, and enlisted in the 95th 0. V. I., with which he served eighteen months, performing duty at Richmond, Ky., at Vicksburg, at Memphis, guarding the city at the first taking of Jackson, and other points on the river. He was discharged on account of disabilities Dec. 9, 1863. Oct. 18, 1860, he was married to Louisa R., daughter of john Harper. They are parents of seven children, all living. His place consists of 52 3/4 acres, ail under cultivation. There is a small lake covering about 3 acres on the east side, which furnishes good stock water the year round. Mr. G. is at present one of the Trustees of the township, holding the office for the second year.
WILLIAM J. GIVEN, farmer; P. O. Mechanicsburg; is a native of Pennsyl. vania, born in Berks Co., Dec. 6, 1821 ; he is a son of Tatty and Mary Ann (Stewart) Given, both natives of Pennsylvania. They came to this State in the fall of 1837, locating on a farm in this county, on the State road, below Urbana, where he remained seven years. He continued farming till the death of his wife, in October, 1846, after which he quit farming and lived with his children. William J. was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He has followed farming all his life, and is comfortably situated for the business, having teams and tools sufficient for the purpose. Jan. 2, 1845, he was united in wedlock to Matilda Vinyard ; they are parents of seven children -Sarah J., Mary Ann, John, Samuel and George, who are living, and William and Elizabeth, deceased. George is the only one at home, the others being married. They have also a niece, Mary Vinyard, who has been living with them as one of the family from infancy. Mr. and Mrs. G. are both active members of the M. E. Church, with which they have been connected twenty-one years. His farm consists of 139 acres, and he makes a specialty of the cultivation of grain.
JOHN HARPER, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The subject of this sketch is a native of Berkeley Co., Va., born March 3, 1798 ; he is a son of Samuel and Sarah (Cunningham) Harper ; he was a Virginian by birth, she a Pennsylvanian, of Scotch origin. They emigrated. to this State in 1802, and settled in Fairfield Co., where they remained for fourteen years, settling in this county in 1816. They were parents of twelve children six boys and six girls-six of whom are still living-one in Dayton, one in Allen Co., and the remaining four in Champaign. Samuel Harper followed the profession of farmer all his life. When he came to this county, there were no improvements, with the exception of an occasional house, there being only two houses between TJrbana and Mechanicsburg. They lived to a green old age in this county, he dying; in his 91st year, and she in her 78th. John Harper, in connection with his brothers;
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did most of the work of clearing the farm and improving their adopted home. He has been thrice married-first, sixty-two years ago, to Rebecca Woods, by whom he had two children; his second marriage was with Elizabeth Wilson, of Fairfield Co., formerly of Pennsylvania; she bore him five children; being again left a widower, he celebrated his third marriage with Sarah C. Bailey, forty years ago; two children were the result of this union. Six of his children are living, all married; his wife's daughter, Mary Ann Clark, was reared in the same family. Mr. and Mrs. Harper are quite well and active for people of their age, being able to do light work and attend to affairs generally on the farm. They have lived together and shared each other's joys and sorrows for twoscore years. They are both members of the M. E. Church, with which he has been connected nearly sixty years, and are trying to live consistent Christian lives, both for their own satisfaction and the cause of the Master.
MARTHA HAYS, farmer; P. O. Mechanicsburg ; is a native of Knox Co., Ohio; born Dec. 25, 1803. She is a daughter of James Pollock, and has been twice married; first, to Joseph Coe, in Knox Co. They removed to Richland Co., where they lived twenty-one years and had eight children. Her second marriage was with Samuel Hays, after coming to this county. Two children were the result of this marriage. None of her children are living. She survives alone, and has borne much trouble in the loss of her family. She still owns the farm, and her grand-daughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. Owen, are living on the place, and take charge of affairs, repaying the debt of gratitude which Mrs. Owen owes. Her mother died when she was only 18 months old, and her grandmother reared her as her own. Mrs. Hays and the entire family, including both husbands, were church members. She has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for many years.
SAMUEL M. HODGE, farmer; P. O. Mechanicsburg ; is a native of Clark Co.; born March 2, 1832. He is a son of James H. and Elizabeth Sailor Hodge. He (James H.) was a native of Montgomery Co., Ky., and came to this State with his father, Andrew, one of the oldest settlers of Clark, in 1808, when only 8 years old. Elizabeth Sailor was a native of Virginia. James Hodge was a farmer, owning a large tract of land lying in this and Clark Counties. Samuel M. was reared on the farm, and educated in the common schools. After attaining his majority, he drove cattle for a couple of years, and then engaged in farming for himself, which he has followed ever since. He has served the people in the capacity of Trustee for three years. In 1862, he was elected Captain of the militia. Oct. 25, 1855, he was joined in wedlock to Amanda M. Roberts. They are parents of ten children, eight of whom are living. Mr. Hodge has something over 600 acres of land, which he farms, being one of the most extensive farmers in the township. He raises stock of all kinds largely, but makes a specialty of hogs.
JOHN H. HODGE, farmer; P. O. Horr's; is a native of Clark Co.; born Jan. 1, 1835. He is a son of James H. and Elizabeth Sailor Hodge. Mr. Hodge was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He has followed the profession of farmer all his life. His farms consist of 489 acres. The one where be lives is devoted to the cultivation of grain. The farm of 197 acres, in Clark, is a stock farm. He was united in wedlock, Jan. 17, 1861, to Miranda Hunter. They are parents of three children; one only-Willis-is living; two infants deceased. Mr. Hodge came to this county in 1861, and has been an active and respected citizen. He has served as a member of the School Board for several years.
ALFRED A. HULL, farmer; P. O. Mechanicsburg ; is a native of Ohio, born at the head of Beaver Creek Jan. 18, 1821. He is a son of Benjamin and Louisa Monson Hull. H e was a native of Kentucky; she of New York. They came to this State in their youth, and located in Clark Co., where they remained till about the year 1830, when they removed to Madison Co. where they lived till the fall of 1846, at which time they emigrated to Illinois, where be still lives. Alfred A. Hull was reared on the farm, and educated first in the common schools, afterward at the London Academy, under J. M. Christian,
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and the best schools of the section. At the age of 20, he began teaching, which profession he followed twenty-five years. He has had a personal acquaintance with Mr. Pinneo, author of the English Grammar, also Dr. Ray, Dr. Lord, of Columbus, Prof. Robert Wilson and Mr. Hinkle and other prominent educators of Ohio. He removed to this county in 1855, and located on Sugar Hill farm, where he still resides. Mr. Hull has served the people of his township in the capacity of Trustee for several years, and as Justice of the Peace for three years. He was also a member of the Board of Education for nine years, and was instrumental in having the comfortable and stable schoolhouse of the township erected. Nov. 9, 1843, he was joined in wedlock to Margaret A. Kirkley, a native of Madison Co. They are parents of three children-M. Louisa, born. March 10, 1846; Benjamin, F., Feb. 22, 1848, and Wm. B., July 20, 1852, all of whom are living in this county and one in Clark. Mr. Hull is enjoying very good health for a man of his age, and his door is always open for the hospitable entertainment of strangers. His estimable wife is afflicted with asthma, making it necessary to exercise great care with her health. They have traveled considerably through this and other States, hoping that a change of atmosphere might prove beneficial, which seems to have been the result. Mr. Hull has a taste for literature, and some talent in that direction. While traveling, he corresponded for the Central Ohio News. His farm consists of 178 acres, pleasantly located, with one of the finest springs in the section, supplying it with good running water.
ZENAS B. JONES, farmer; P. O. Urbana ; is a native of this county, born June 23,1834. He is a son of John and Mary Lafferty Jones, both natives of this county. Their parents were Virginians, but came to this State in 1804, and located in this county at. a time when it was one vast, uncultivated wilderness. John Jones spent his entire life in this county, helping to build up its interests and wealth as a farmer, living quietly at home, but taking an active interest in the affairs of the community. He was the father of seven children-Zenas B., John W., Thomas O., Levi M., Sarah C., Charles C. and Edward E., all are still living. He died within sight of his birthplace, at the age of 72. Zenas B. was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He remained at home with his father till the fall of 1861, when, at the call of his country, he left home to protect the flag which we all love, and enlisted in the 66th O. V. I. He served about one year, being wounded in the first fight, Port Republic. and left on the field. He fell into the hands of the rebels, where he remained three months. He was then exchanged and discharged; he still leaves the marks of his wounds, from which he is lame in the hip. After returning from the service, he again went to farming for himself, which he has continued ever since. In 1865, he was joined in wedlock to Eliza J. McConnell. They have no children, though they have two nieces who are living with them. They are both active members of the M. E. Church. His farm consists of 140 acres.
SAMUEL MCADAMS, farmer; P. O. Mechanicsburg; is a native of this county ; born on the farm where he now. lives, June 16, 1834. He is a son of John and Rachel Graham McAdams. He, John was a native of this county, born Oct. 30, 1808. She was also a native of this State, born Feb. 28, 1811. John McAdams was the son of John, one of the earliest settlers of this part of the State, coming here prior to 1800, when the country was entirely wild, and the principal inhabitants were Indians. John McAdams, father of Samuel, reared a large family of children, viz., Ellen, Eliza Jane, Samuel, Melons; Francis, Marion, Mary Ann, Harriet and Ruth, all of whom are living but Ellen and Melona. Eliza lives in Iowa, and Mary Ann in Indiana. The remainder of the family live in this county. Mr. M. was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He has been a farmer all his life, in connection with which he has run a threshing machine for twelve years. April 6. 1854, he married Nancy Jane Doak, by whom he had six children. She died in 1865. His second marriage was celebrated April 12, 1866, with Winnie Thompson. They are parents of seven children, all of whom are living; one of the children by his first wife is dead. His farm consists of 18' acres in a body, and in a good state of cultivation.
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JAMES A. McLAIN, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of this county, and was born on the place where he now resides, July 29, 1804. His parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Runyon McLain, came to this county in the fall of 1801 or 1802. Joseph was a native of Loudoun Co., Va., and Elizabeth Runyon a native of Elizabethtown, N. J. They came down the Ohio River in a flat-boat to Cincinnati, and stopped at Monroe, where they raised a crop of corn, then came to Champaign and located near what is now Mutual, where they remained to the time of their death; he dying in 1834, and she in 1839. They were parents of seven children, of whom James A. is the third son. Oar subject was reared upon the farm, and received his education in the common schools with his brothers and sisters, except William, who was a graduate of Oxford, and afterward a prominent divine in Washington City. Mr. McLain has followed the profession of farmer all his life, and has applied his ax to the sturdy oaks that once covered the fine farm which he now owns. In 1836, he married Jane M. Wilson, with whom he lived seven years. They had no children. In 1844, he celebrated his second marriage with Martha Ann Porter, who has born him eleven children, nine of whom are still living and have grown to manhood and womanhood. Mr. McLain has held different township offices, and was Justice of the Peace for six years. Although of a naturally reticent disposition, he has taken a lively interest in the welfare of the community, and has done much to build up the wealth of Union Township. He and his entire family are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has been an Elder for forty years, and has had the greater part of the management of the finances of the church, and assisted largely in building three different churches in that time. They are exemplary and consistent Christians, laboring faithfully in the cause of the Master, with the hope of the reward of the just. Squire McLain is spending the latter years of his life in the enjoyment of the society of his wife and family, and has accumulated wealth. Although now seventy-six years of age, he is hearty and active, attending to the thousand little chores about the farm.
WILLIAM S. MADDEN, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of this county, born Sept. 10, 1844; he is a son of Perry G. and Mary Stewart Madden. Perry Madden was a native of Virginia, born in 1809 ; he came to this State about fifty years ago and located in this county; he followed farming in connection with stock and real-estate trading, and owned large tracts of land at different times ; was one of the most successful business men of the community, and was well beloved by the people ; he died in March, 1879. William S. was reared on the farm and educated in the district schools; he, like his father, followed farming and the raising of stock ; his farm consists of 232 acres, all in a good state of cultivation but about fifty acres of timber. He was married to Louisa Dickinson in 1865 ; they are parents of three children - Frederick W., Nathaniel C. and Mary M.; all are living well. Mr. M. is one of the leading young farmers of this section, taking an active interest in anything for the public good and the advancement of the interests of the community of which he is a member.
JOHN F. MICHAEL (deceased) ; was a native of Frederick Co., Md., born May 7, 1811 ; he was a son of Christopher and Ann Catharine Michael, both natives of Maryland; Christopher was born May 4, 1775; Ann Catharine was of German parentage, and was born April 12, 1774; he died in Maryland March 8, 1846 ; she came to this State with her son John F., with whom she remained till her death, Dec. 14, 1858. John F. Michael came to this State in 1853 and located on a farm in this county, where he remained the rest of his life; he followed the profession of farmer all his life. He was a member of the German Reformed Church. He was married, March 16, 1837, to Mary Ann Hyatt; they were parents of eight children, six of whom-William F., born March 6, 1838; Eli H., Feb. 27, 1842; James K. P., Nov. 20, 1844; John F., Dec. 18, 1846; Margaret Ann C., Sept. 23, 1852; Samuel M., Nov. 11, 1855-are living; Christopher, born Dec. 10, 1839, and Charles E., Sept. 9, 1849, deceased. Mrs. Michael is still living on the old homestead ; her- son, John F.,
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is living with her, and takes charge of the farm in connection with his brother William F. William F. is married, and the father of seven children, five of whom are living, Effie J., James W., Franklin P., Charlotte and Bertha E.; William F. and Emma Grace deceased; his wife was Emily D., daughter of Samuel Harper, deceased. The two brothers, William F. and John F., have lived on the farm where they now reside ever since they came to the State, twenty-seven years ago. William F. is a member of the Buck Creek Presbyterian Church.
THOMAS NEELD, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of Warren Co., Ohio, born May 16, 1840. He is a son of Joseph and Ellen (Halloway) Neeld. He (Joseph) was originally from Pennsylvania ; she was a native of this State. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood on the farm in a manner incident to youth, and received his education in the common schools. In 1861, having just attained his majority, when the flag of our country was in danger and the boom of rebel cannon was heard near the national capital, he left his home and enlisted in the 6th O. V. I., with which he served faithfully for more than four years, though part of the time in the marine service. He was in the battles of Pittsburg Landing and other points along the river while in the marine service,,also at the siege of Vicksburg and the Red River campaign, and other points in that section of the South. Jan. 19, 1865, he was mustered out at Vicksburg. On returning home, he located in Highland Co., where he engaged in farming, which he has followed ever since. In 1861, he was united in wedlock to Martha Ann Knotts. They are parents of six children-Walter, Charles, Mary Ellen, Louis, Mertie and Arthur. All are living and hearty, and at home with their parents. He removed to this county in March, 1876.
NATHAN NEER, farmer; P. O. Horr's ; is a native of Clark Co., Ohio, born Jan. 4, 1824. He is a son of Nathan and Jane (Conrad) Neer, both natives of Loudoun Co., Va. They came to this State in 1823, and located in Clark Co., where Catawba now stands. It was then a forest. He was a farmer all his life, clearing his place from a state of nature. They were parents of six children ; two only are now living Nathan and Enos. He died in 1864. Nathan Neer has followed the profession of farmer all his life, having a large farm, consisting of 250 acres, valued at about $50 per acre. In 1846, he was joined in wedlock to Lucinda Spry. They have been on the farm where they now live for thirty years, and have accumulated considerable property. They have no children.
ARY PAULL, farmer ; P. O. Mutual; is a daughter of William and Ann (Jack) Paull, natives of Butler Co., W. Va. They emigrated to this State in 1814, and settled on the farm where Ary now lives. It was then entirely in a state of nature, with the exception of a small field, which had been opened by a squatter. Mr. Paull brought seven children over the Alleghanies, three boys and four girls, three of whom are still living. They came overland from Virginia with two four-horse teams through the then almost unbroken wilds. He died Jan. 1 of the following year, 1815. His wife continued living on the farm, and reared her entire family. She departed this life July 31, 1846. After the death of her mother, Ary located on the place where she now lives, it being her share of the inheritance. Her life has been one checkered scene, having passed through all the trials incident to this life. Affliction in the shape of disease of every form has been her lot. She has bravely struggled through all, and, though now 75 years of age,, her mind is bright and active. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church by birthright and education, and cheerfully and consistently walks in the footsteps of the Master, trusting that the reward will come in the great future.
JESSE C. PHILLIPS, farmer; P. O. Urbana; was born in Kentucky March 14, 1799; be is a son of Elijah and Hannah Corwin Phillips, both natives of Pennsylvania, who emigrated to Kentucky in an early day; Elijah Phillips died within a few day; of the birth of Jesse C.; his wife, in company with h, her brothers, of the old family of Corwins, came to Warren Co. in the summer of 1790. In the year 1813, Mrs. Phillips removed to Champaign Co., where, in the course of a year or so. she married
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Philip Kenton, one of the pioneers of this county; she remained here till the time of her death, some twenty-five years ago. Jesse C. is the survivor of five children; he has followed the business of tanning and currying the greater part of his life, having devoted his entire attention to the business for thirty-seven years; for the past twenty years, he has followed farming; he has always been an energetic citizen, taking an active part in anything tending to the general good of the county. In 1837, he was elected Representative to the Ohio Legislature, and re-elected in 1839 ; he served as Justice of the Peace for seven terms (twenty-one years). On the 25th day of March, 1827, he was joined in wedlock with Ellen Stewart ; they were the parents of eleven children, five of whom-Elizabeth, Elijah, Hannah, Francis W. and Sophia S.-are still living. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have been married for more than fifty-three years, and, although Mr. Phillips is rather feeble, his partner for so many years is hale for a lady of her age, and able to attend to his wants. They have witnessed many changing scenes in life, and great developments in the country. Their children are living hi this State, except one, who resides in Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have been members of the O. S. Baptist Church (Nettle Creek) for more than forty years; he has been a member of the Masonic order since Oct. 12, 1826.
SAMUEL H. RANNELLS, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Virginia May 1, 1827; he is a son of William and Nancy (Humes) Rannells, both- natives of Virginia; they emigrated to this State about the year 1828, and located on the farm where Robert N. Rannells now lives; they were parents of eight children, four of whom-Samuel H., Nancy M. (Mrs. Gould), Robert N. and John E.-are living, and reside in this county. Mr. Rannells followed the fortunes of the farm during his life; coming here when the country was wild and uncultivated, he reared a large family and opened one of the large farms of this section. His marriage with Nancy Humes was celebrated Sept. 30, 1824; he died May 20, 1874; his wife departed this life in 1862. Samuel H. was reared on the farm, and received his education in the common schools; at the age of 21, he began farming for himself ; his farm now contains 160 acres, which he devotes chiefly to the cultivation of grain. In 1859, he was married to Elizabeth Donaldson, who has borne him five children, all living, viz., William, Katie, Frank, Clifford and Ralph. He and his estimable wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, with which they have been connected many years, and are consistent working Christians ; he is a public-spirited gentleman, taking an active interest in the general good of the community of which he is a member.
ROBERT N. RANNELLS, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The above gentleman is a native of this county, born Aug. .35, 1832. He is a son of William and Nancy Rannells. Our subject was reared on the farm, and received his education in the schools of the county. He has followed farming as a vocation thus far in life, and, at present, is the possessor of 210 acres of choice farming land, to which he devotes his time and talent in raising grain and stock; in the latter, he deals quite extensively. He is a member of the Buck Creek Presbyterian Church, with which he has been connected several years. He is an active and successful business man, and interested in the general welfare of the community.
JOSEPH M. ROBERTS, farmer; P. O. Horr's; is a native of Clark Co., Ohio, born June 27, 1827. He is a son of James H. and Mary Ann (Wren) Roberts, natives of Virginia. She came to Clark Co. in 1803, when Indians were numerous in this section. He came in 1810. After their marriage they located on a farm, where they remained till the time of their deaths. James H. entered the land on which he lived, and, in 1817, it being unsafe to send money by the mails, he rode to Washington on horseback to make the last payment on his farm He was a soldier of the war of 1812, and served under Gen. Harrison in the Northwestern army. He died at the advanced age of 79 years 11 months. She died also in her 80th year. Joseph M. was reared on the farm, and tilled the corn with the single-shovel plow, in connection with the immense hoe of that time. He has been a farmer all his life, with the exception
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of a few years; when he was a young man he drove cattle across the mountains ta Lancaster, Penn. He has witnessed the changes of half a century, and added his labor to the common cause. In 1864, when the President called for the assistance of the N. H. G., imbued with the true spirit of patriotism, he went with his company to Columbus, and enlisted in the volunteer service in the 134th Regiment, where he served for four months. Nov. 24, 1856, he was united in wedlock to Lovey Reed. They are parents of nine children, six of whom-James H., Ella, Washington Irving, Harry, Nettie and Mary, are living; Channing, Denny and William V., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts and the three eldest children are members of the regular Baptist Church. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F. of the R. P. degree, a fact in which he feels great pride, having been attached to the order since 1853. He has a tomahawk in his possession which was found in a tree, and has been in the family for fifty years. It was lost at one time for twenty years; also the sword carried by his father when Captain of the militia.
WILLIAM F. ROCK, farmer; P. O. Urbana; is a native of this county, born Oct. 27, 1833. He is a son of John and Amelia Copse Rock, both natives of this county. They were the parents of twelve children, five of whom are living-William F., Sarah H., Felix I,., Sylvester H. and. John W., all residents of this county. John Rock was one of Champaign's oldest boys, born in 1806 or 1807. He lived in this county all his life, adding his labor to the general cause of building up the interests of the community of which he was a member. He died Jan. 11, 1875. William F. was reared on the farm, and received his education in the common schools of his time. He has followed farming all his life, his farm consisting of 57 acres, in a good state of cultivation, with the exception of about 12 acres of timber.. Was united in wedlock, Dec. 20, 1855, to Elma A. Brown. They are parents of two children-Charles O. and Frank E.; one is still at home, the other married and living in the neighborhood. Mr. Rock was a member of the 134th O. V. I., for one hundred days. His brother, St. Ledger J., was killed June 9, 1862, at Port Republic. Mr. and Mrs. R. and the eldest son are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and are consistent and working Christians; Mr. R. is also Superintendent of the Long Pond Sunday School, and has in past years superintended two schools at the same time. He takes an active interest in anything that is for the public good. He is holding the office of Justice of the Peace at the present time, this being his fourth year.
MRS. MARY SCEVA, farmer; P. O. Mutual. Mrs. Mary Sceva was born in Merrimack Co.. N. H., March 28, 1812. She is a daughter of Charles and Abigail Huntoon, both natives of the Granite State. June 28, 1835, she was joined in wed lock m Aaron Sceva, born Sept. 7, 1806. After living among their native hills for a year, they immigrated to this county and settled on the farm where Mrs. Sceva now lives. She is one of thirteen children-four boys and nine girls; one brother and two sisters are still living. Mrs. S. is the mother of four children-Mary J., born Aug. 20, 1836; George A., Aug. 28, 1840; Angeline, Nov. 28, 1841, and Charles H., May 23, 1846, all of whom are living and residents of this county, the youngest son living with his mother and widowed sister, Angeline-Mrs. Tinney. Mrs. S. has lived on the farm since their first settlement, and reared her family. She is an earnest, consistent Christian lady, having been connected with the church since she was 16 years of age, first with the Free-Will Baptists, the church of her parents, and, after coming to this county, with the Methodist Episcopal. She is of a generous nature, always taking an interest in any good work which is for the general welfare of the community of which she is a member. She is spending her latter years in company with her son and widowed daughter and her two children, one of whom is just verging into womanhood. Her farm consist of 80 acres of the Military Survey.
JOHN M. SMITH, farmer; P. O. Mutual; is a native of Rockingham Co., N. H. born April 20,1824. He is a son of Benjamin and Lydia Ladd Smith. They were parents of seven children, Dudley, Stephen, Mercy, Lydia, Benjamin, Mary and our subject-
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all of whom are residents of the Granite State, but John M. He came to this State in 1854 and located on a farm in this county as a renter. In 1867, he was married to Eliza Jane Moody. They have no children. Mr. Smith is a carpenter by trade, and followed the business while a resident of New Hampshire, and has done something at it since he came here, though not making a business of the art. He now owns a little farm of 77 acres, all in a good state of cultivation, where he is spending the mature years of his life in the enjoyment of the society of his wife and the fruits of his labor.
FRED H. SNYDER, trader; P. O. Mutual; is a native of Lancaster Co., Penn. He is a son of Louis and Elizabeth Annie Snyder. Louis was a native of Baltimore, Md., from which place he removed to Lancaster Co., Penn., where he married. In 1838 or 1839, he emigrated to this State and located in Clark Co. He was a resident of Clark and Champaign Counties the remainder of his life. He was father of eight children, five boys and three girls, all of whom are living. Fred H. is the oldest of the family, and has followed various pursuits in life, having been an extensive dealer in stock for several years, shipping to Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and Buffalo, handling as many as 2,000 hogs and 500 steers in a season. He was one of the incorporators of the village of Mutual, and its first Mayor, holding the office of Justice of the Peace at the same time. He has also been a member of the Council, and held other offices of trust. He is a genial, social gentleman, and takes an active interest in the public good. Nov. 20, 1860, he married Sallie E. Harper. Four children were the result of this union; two only are living. Jan. 22, 1879, Mrs. Snyder was called away. He and his two children continue to keep house, preferring the influence and society of home. He is a member of Catawba Lodge, No. 339, I. O. O. F., to which he is much attached.
JOSEPH R. VAN METER, farmer; P. O. Horr's; was born in Clark Co., Ohio, July 31, 1817. He is a son of Jacob and Sarah R. Van Meter. Jacob was of Virginia parentage; and Sarah R. of Maryland. They were married, after coming to this State, on Mad River. They at first located in Clark Co., where they remained for several years, after which (probably about 1825), they removed to this county and settled on the farm where William J. Van Meter now lives, where they remained to the time of their death, he dying Feb. 22, 1857, and she dying July 27, 1859. They were parents of eight children, six girls and two boys, one girl dying in infancy. Mrs. Bretner died June 14, 1877, and Harriet E., Oct. 5, 1849. The other members of the family are still living. Jacob's mother, a widow, came to this State in an early day with her family of seven children-Henry, Jacob, Solomon, Isaac, Ann, Rebecca and Sallie-and located on a farm, enduring the hardships and trials incident to pioneer life. Our subject was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He has given his especial attention to farming and the raising of stock. He has a farm of 240 acres, well adapted to the purpose. Feb. 1, 1847, he was united in the bonds of matrimony to Sarah A. Bretner. They are parents of four children-Edwin R., born March 6, 1848; Charlie R., Oct. 12, 1849; Lee H., March 7, 1852, and Jacob L., Nov. 21, 1853-all of whom are living, one in Illinois, the remaining three near home. Edwin R. and Lee H. are married. Mr. and Mrs. Van Meter are active and effective workers in the M. E. Church, with which they have been connected for more than thirty years. Mr. Van Meter continues the management of the farm, though so afflicted with rheumatism as to keep him from active employment.
WILLIAM J. VAN METER, farmer; P. O. Horr's ; is a native of this county, born July 25, 1833, on the farm where he now lives; he is a son of Jacob and Sarah Van Meter. Mr. Van Meter passed the earlier years of his life on a farm, and was educated at Lebanon and Springfield; he has given his attention to farming, with the exception of three years spent in telegraphing. He was joined in wedlock to Elizabeth Baldwin, Feb. 2, 1860 ; they are the parents of five children-Cooley B., Frank R., Hattie N., Minerva M. and Eleanor-all of whom are living at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. V. are active members of the M. E. Church, to which they have been attached for many years; they are exemplary and consistent
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Christians, and are genteel and generous neighbors. His farm consists of 340 acres, which he farms both in grain and stock; it is well supplied with springs, affording fine facilities for stock, and every field on the farm is well supplied with running water.
JOHN W. WILSON, farmer; P. O. Mutual; is a native of Frederick Co., Va., born Sept. 1, 1825; he is a son of Armstad and Sallie (Gough) Wilson; he was a native of Virginia, she of Delaware, though she went to Virginia when only a child. They were parents of eleven children, nine of whom are living. Our subject was reared on the farm, and received the rudiments of an education in the common schools, attending but little, however, on account of the jealousy existing between the aristocracy and the plebeians. He has, by labor and close application, with the advantages of an inquiring mind, attained a good general knowledge. He has followed farming all his life; his farm consists of 60 acres, which he tills in connection with the adjoining land. He came to this State in 1851, locating in this county. In the fall of 1860, he married Mary E. Madden; they are parents of two children-Laura B. and Sarah Jane; both are at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the M. E. Church, and are zealous workers in the cause of the Master.
ROBERT M. WOODS, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Ohio Co., Va., in the year 1800. He is a son of Andrew and Mary (Mitchell) Woods, natives of Virginia. He emigrated to this county in 1832, locating near Urbana, where he remained one year. He then purchased the farm on which he now lives. He is one of seven children, viz., Andrew, Samuel, Robert, Alfred, Jane, Margaret and Mary Ann. All grew to maturity. Feb. 19, 1822, he married Rebecca, daughter of Col. William Voss. They are parents of eight children-Rachel V., Alfred, Mary, James, Edwin, William, Robert and Jane, four of whom, viz., William, Robert, Mary (Mrs. J. W. Ogden) and Jane (Mrs. Griffith Ellis). Mr. Woods has lived in Champaign for nearly fifty years, although he has changed location several times. Part of the time he lived in Urbana, and then on a small place about two miles east of that place, where his house was burned, and his furniture, together with many valuable records, were lost. Mr. Woods is quite active although fourscore years of age, and assists in seeing after the affairs of the farm. He and his aged wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, living exemplary and consistent Christian lives.
JAMES YOUNG, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The subject of this sketch is a native of this county, born Sept. 13, 1841. He is a son of John and Margaret (Myers) Young. He (John) was a native of Scotland and she of Virginia. He came to this country about forty eight years ago, first stopping in Canada a couple of years, then came to this county. He was a weaver by trade, which he followed all his life, working at different places in the country. He died in 1854. Mrs. Young was twice married, having one son, H. L. Kester, by her first husband, and one, our subject, by her second. He spent his boyhood on the farm, and has followed the business ever since, with the exception of three years and four months in the service of his country. He was married, in 1873, to Emma Protsman. They have had two children-Maggie May, living, and Albert, deceased. His farm consists of 129 acres, nearly all under improvement. Mrs. Young is a member of the M. E. Church.