REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS

MARION COUNTY, OHIO

1907 HISTORY

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JUDSON N. DAVIDS, residing in a beautiful home at No. 752 North Main street, Marion, was born February 17, 1846, in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Thomas Davids. and a member of the early settled families of the State.

Thomas and Isabel (Morris) Davids were the founders of the Davids family in America. They emigrated from Wales in 1803, settling in Pennsylvania where they lived until 1805, when they came to Ohio and located near Radnor, in Delaware County, where Thomas Davids died of typhus fever, in 1810. Willlain Davids, son of Thomas and Isabel (Morris) Davids, was born in Wales and married Magdalene Jenkins, who was born in Wales. Evan Jenkins, grandfather of Magdalene. came from Wales in 1802, first settling at Franklinton Franklin County, Ohio, but removing to Radnor in 1808, where he and his wife died.

In 1822 William Davids moved to Pleasant township. Marion County, where he entered 160 acres of land which he cleared and occupied until his death, April 20. 1870, at the age of 77 years. He was a private in General Hull's army In the War of 1812. He was one of the early trustees of Pleasant township and also held other local offices. William and Magdalene Davids had 11 children. Thomas Davids father of Judson N., was born at Radnor, Delaware County, Ohio, and accompanied his parents to Marion County in 1822. He became a man of substance and prominence in the community.

Judson N. Davids was educated at Prospect and at Delaware, Ohio, and for a number of years taught school through the winter seasons and farmed in the summer. In 1864 he enlisted in Company I, 174th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was mustered into the service at Columbus. His regiment was attached to the Army of the Tennessee, and his first experience of war was in the sharp skirmish at Overall's Creek, Tennessee. After the battle at Goldsboro,, North Carolina, the regiment became a part of General Sherman's force and his company was sent to Raleigh to guard the city, and was detailed from there to Charlotte, North Carolina and finally was mustered out at Columbus. Mr. Davids resumed farming and school-teaching until 1896, when he settled at Prospect, in order to care for his aged mother. There he continued to live until 1902, when he built his present nice home at Marion. Mr. Davids has been largely interested in real estate investments and has handled property not only in Ohio, but also in Kentucky and Michigan.

In 1870 Mr. Davids was married to Elizabeth C. Wolford, who is a daughter of Godfrey Wolford. He is a member of Cooper Post, No. 117, G. A. R. at Marion.

REMINGTON R. DAVIDS, residing on his farm of 102 acres, in Prospect township, owns an additional 110 ½ acres, situated on the east side of the Gooding and Davids, turnpike. He was born on the old homestead farm in Prospect township, Marion County, Ohio, November 4, 1850, and is a son of Thomas and Mary Ann (Mounts) Davids.

William Davids, his grandfather, was born in Wales; he came to America with his parents, who settled in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. in 1800. After his father's death, his mother sold her possessions and with her son William, then 16 years of age, removed to Radnor township, Delaware County, Ohio As it was necessary to return to Pennsylvania in order to collect on the notes, taken in payment for his father's property that had been sold, William made the trip to Pennsylvania and home again to Ohio, on foot. Later he served in the War of 1812. In 1813 he married Magdalena Jenkins, who had accompanied her parents to Radnor township, Delaware County, from Wales. After marriage, William and wife moved to Pleasant township, Marion County settling in the green woods here in 1824. The death of William Davids took place April 21, 1870. He left 160 acres of land to his family. The 11 children of William Davids and wife were: Thomas; John E.; Jenkins; Sarah; Isabella, wife of J. W. Boyd; Phebe, who married (first) Dr. W. W. Bridge and (second) William Miles; James M.; Mary J., who married (first) Dr. Tyler and (second) Jacob Hoskins; Catherine; Noah; and Margaret E., wife of J. S. Harmon, But two members of the above named family survive.

Thomas Davids, father of Remington R. was born August 22, 1814, in Radnor township, Delaware County, Ohio, and accompanied the family to Pleasant township, Marion, County, in 1824. He assisted in clearing the pioneer farm and in 1845 was married to Mary Ann Mounts, who was born December 1, 1822, and died at the home of her son Remington R., September 17, 1904. Her grandparents came from, the North of Ireland to America and settled in Delaware County, Ohio and from there her parents moved to Marion County in 1820. The children of Thomas and Mary Ann (Mounts) Davids were: Judson N., of Marion; Harriet A., who died in 1865; Sarah Magdalena, who died young; Remington R.; and Thomas Elliott, who died young.

The farm on which Remington R. Davids was born consisted of 80 acres, which his grandfather had bought in 1831 for $140. Thomas Davids moved on it in 1847 and paid $800 for it. He lived on that farm until his death, which occurred May 3, 1870.

Remington R. Davids was reared a practical farmer and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. After his marriage, he lived for several years in Pleasant township, and then sold his farm and in 1872 bought all 80-acre tract known as the Henry Stiffler farm. In 1896 he bought his present property, the old J. W. Boyd place, from R. W. Watkins. His residence, a large comfortable farm-house, was on the property when he became the proprietor. Mr. Davids carries on general farming, raising grain and stock.

On November 24, 1870, Mr. Davids was married to Rose Isler, a daughter of Samuel and Rose (Knodle) Isler. Samuel Isler (they were born in Hafnerhaslach, Wuerttemberg) came to America with his wife and three children and first bought a wild farm of 50 acres, in Prospect township, Marion County, Ohio. While clearing his land, he was killed by a falling tree. His widow lived to the age of 70 years. They had eight children of whom the first born died in infancy. The others were as follows: Elizabeth, wife of Christopher Shilling of Prospect; Caleb, of Prospect township, John, of Prospect township; Catherine, wife of Christian Able, of Marion; Caroline, widow of Daniel Owens, of Marion; Sophia, deceased; and Rose.

Mr. and Mrs. Davids have had 14 children, as follows: William H., who married Bessie Codding, has three children-Newel, Roy and Carrie Louise-and lives on the old home farm; Iva Dell, who married George Bechtel, of Marion, and has four children-Lot Emmett, Charlotte, Donald and Leonard; Ruth, who married William Stockman, of Marion, and has four children-Helen, Vera, Remington and David; Cora A., who married Hosea Jones, residing at Radnor, and has two children-Leland and Vernon; Mary, who married William Watkins, of Radnor and has one child, Eltheo; Abigail Lewis, who married Charles Patterson, residing at Redlands, California and has two children-Levonia and Leslie; Thomas R., residing at Prospect, who married Hortense Gast; John E., who assists his father on the farm; Mattie, who resides. in California, Lena, Eva, James B. and Judson N., all at home,: and a babe that died in infancy.

Politically, Mr. Davids is a Republican as was his father. At various times he has served as a member of the School Board and as township trustee. Fraternally he a Mason, being a member of Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. & A. M., and of the chapter and council at Marion.

HERBERT J. DAVIS, a prominent and prosperous farmer and stock-raiser of Big Island township, residing on his farm of 100 acres located in section 9, was born in Salt Rock township, Marion County, Ohio, October 4, 1884, and is the only child of Thomas and Mintie (Parish) Davis.

Thomas Davis was a native of Farmington, Marion County, Virginia (now West Virginia), and was a son of James Davis, also a native of Virginia. Thomas Davis came to Marion County when about 24 years old and rented a farm in Big Island township for many years. In 1900 he purchased the farm on which his son now resides. He was united in marriage in Marion County, West Virginia, in March, 1869 with Mintie Parish, a daughter of Richard and Ellen Parish. Thomas Davis died March 6, 1906; his wife died March 6, 1898.

Herbert J. Davis was born, reared and has always lived in Marion County. He has engaged in general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of fine horses, sheep and hogs. On October 8, 1905, Mr. Davis was united in marriage with Cecil Frame, who is a daughter of Hopkins C. Frame of Big Island township. They have one child, Thomas Clark, born February 15, 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat, as was his father.

HON. WILLIAM Z. DAVIS, (PICTURE) judge of the Supreme Court of Ohio, and for many years one of the eminent lawyers and leading citizens of Marion County, was born at Loydsville, Belmont County, Ohio, June 10, 1839, and is a son of the late Dr. B. W. Davis.

In 1855 the parents of Judge Davis removed to Osborn, Greene County, in 1857 to Caledonia, in this county, and in 1860 to Marion. The education of the youth was carefully attended to; he being a student in public and private schools at Dayton, and in 1859, when he came to, Marion, he entered the High School, subsequently completing the course. Here the position as assistant to the county clerk offered him an opening and while he was performing its duties he began the study of the law with Gen. James H. and H. C. Godman. From 1859 until 1861 he applied himself closely to study, but when the call came for soldiers, he put aside his books and in April, 1861, enlisted in Company H, Fourth Reg., Ohio Vol, Inf., and served out the three months of his first enlistment. He then returned to Marion to continue his studies, and in February, 1862, he was admitted to the bar at Columbus, by the Supreme Court of Ohio.

In August, 1862, judge Davis again donned the Union blue, reenlisting for his country's service, entering Company E, 96th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and served faithfully and efficiently until he was honorably discharged, on account of serious illness, in March, 1863. During his second term of service he participated in the battles of Chickasaw Bayou and Arkansas Post.

After a slow recovery, the young soldier entered upon the practice of his profession, entering the office of the well-known law firm of West & Walker, attorneys at Belleforitaine, having charge of the affairs of the firm during Judge West's absence in the State Senate and Mr. Walker's attendance upon his duties as internal revenue assessor. His ability was plainly shown in this responsible position and was noted by his old preceptors, and when, in April, 1864, General Godman assumed the duties of Auditor of State, to which office he had been elected in the memorable election of 1863. Mr. Davis was invited to enter the firm, which subsequently became Godman & Davis. The combination proved a strong one and was continued until October, 1871, when the partnership was dissolved for the reason that H. C. Godman, his partner, removed from Marion. Judge Davis continued in practice alone (except a few years in partnership with Daniel R. Crissinger) and attained a high position as a practitioner, His cases bringing him into the highest courts, both State and Federal.

A short abstract of his first written argument before the Supreme Court of Ohio appears in 18 Ohio State Reports, 456; and his last appearance in the Federal courts was in the Supreme Court of the United States, at Washington, D. C., in December, 1899, in a case which was finally submitted and decided in 1901 and reported in 181 U. S. Reports, 73.

In 1899 he was elected judge of the Supreme Court of Ohio. One month before the beginning of the term for which he was elected, January 9, 1900, he took his seat in the Supreme Court by appointment from Governor Nash, Judge Bradbury having resigned. He was reelected in 1905. He has distinguished himself on the bench; and as a jurist he ranks with those judges who have made the supreme bench of the State illustrious. His first formal deliverance, as speaking for the court, a. per curiam and an opinion, appear in the cases reported in 61 Ohio St. R., 949 and 551.

Judge Davis is, by nature and by habit a student; and his studies have, by no means, been confined to the law. He has accomplished a wide reading in science as. well as in classical and English literature. Since he became a judge of the Supreme Court he has become an enthusiastic student of the German language and literature. as a relaxation from severer labors. He was for a number of years enrolled among the active members of the American Society of Microscopists; and he only relinquished that membership when advancing years and the pressure of business made the frequent use of the microscope too much of a tax on his eyesight. He, nevertheless, still resorts to it occasionally as a most fascinating recreation,

Judge Davis was married December 3, 1868, to Harriet M. Search, eldest daughter of Thomas and Matilda C. (Sharpless) Search. To them were born three children: Griselda. who is married to Victor E. Dombaugh; Ernestine, now deceased: and Helen Louise. Mrs. Davis died, after a very brief illness, August 2, 1901. Judge Davis was married again September 9, 1903, to Jessie Myer, of Columbus, Ohio.

He was one of the charter members of Marion Lodge, No. 402, Knights of Pythias, and has been chancellor commander of the same. Since early manhood he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and has contributed largely to the advancement and prosperity of that denomination in Marion.

Politically, Judge Davis is a Republican and has always been an important factor in political life, although declining its honors for himself. He has been acquainted with almost all of the distinguished men of Ohio of his time; and has been on terms of close friendship with many of them. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

SAMUEL DAY, one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of Montgomery township, residing on his finely cultivated farm of 240 acres, was born in Ross County, Ohio, September 13, 1821, and is a son of Ovington and Jane (Clark) Day.

Ovington Day was born at Pendleton, Virginia, in 1794, and was a son of Samuel and Margaret (Cohagen) Day, whose children were: Ransom, Adison; Ovington, Demoville, Hedgeman, Samuel, Rebecca and Dorcas. The elder daughter married a Mr. Blue and the younger, a Mr. Sykes. Samuel Day moved from Virginia to Ross County, Ohio, in 1805, and died there in 1821. In the War of 1812, he and two older brothers were in the army of 5,000 or 6,000 men, stationed at Upper Sandusky. Both he and his father, Benjamin Day, took part in the War of the Revolution and were members of the Patriot Army at the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown.

In 1818, in Ross County, Ohio, Ovington Day was married to Jane Clark, a daughter of William Clark, who was a son of James and Martha Clark. James Clark, the great-grandfather of Samuel Day, of Montgomery township, was murdered in Pennsylvania by the Indians. His widow later married a Mr. McKelvey. William Clark, who was the only son of his parents, had the following children: Jane, John, Betsey, Lovey, Samuel, Eleanor and Martha. William Clark settled 12 miles west of Chillicothe, in Ross County, Ohio, and lived there the remainder of his life.

In 1825 Ovington Day and wife moved to Marion County, and settled one mile southeast of Scott Town, in Big Island township, where. Mr. Day took up land on which he lived until his death in 1878, residing on the same farm for about 53 years. To him and his wife were born six sons and four daughters, namely: William, who never married and died at the age of 54 years; John, who died in infancy; James, deceased in 1904, on his farm four miles. north of LaRue, aged 70 years, who married Deliah Mears and had two children-Morilla G. and Easter, both of whom are living; John, who died in infancy; Allen, who resides on the old homestead in Big Island township; Martha, who died aged 12 years; Elizabeth, widow of the late Samuel Chapman, deceased in Florida in 1903; Love Ellen, born in 1836, who is the widow of Eli Waples, residing at Marion; Mrs. Daniel Colvin; Samuel; and a child died in infancy. The mother of the above family died in 1850, aged 50 years.

Samuel Day assisted his father in clearing his pioneer farm. In 1843, the year following his marriage, he moved upon his present farm in Montgomery township, finding 12 acres of the property partly cleared and fenced. An unfinished cabin stood where is now situated the comfortable home, and a huge chimney seven feet wide extended across one side. Mr. Day has always been a man of tireless industry and has cleared 365 acres of land. He built his present home in May, 1865, completing. it in the fall of that year. He now owns 240 acres of some of the best land in Marion County and has long been a man of independent means.

On November 2, 1842, Mr. Day married Sarah Ann Morris, a daughter of John and Agnes (Pettit) Morris. She was born in Delaware and accompanied her parents to Marion County in 1833. Her mother died at Agosta, in 1842, and her father some years later, at Upper Sandusky. Mr. and Mrs. Day have had two children, namely: Damaris, who married David H. Clifton, an extensive farmer and stock-raiser of Marion County, and has one child, Day D., who is cashier of the Campbell National Bank at LaRue and who married a daughter of the late Dr. Campbell; and Dallas, born May 5, 1845, deceased January 28, 1893, at the age of 47 years, who for 10 years was in the county recorder's office, six years as county recorder and four years as deputy.

Mr. Day has been a consistent member of the Democratic party all his life but has never been enough interested to seek office. He remembers when the total vote of Bowling Green, Montgomery and Grand townships for President aggregated 50 ballots, 48 of which were cast for Andrew Jackson and two for Henry Clay. He tells many interesting stories of the Indians and he well remembers William Walker, a half-breed, who was an educated man and successful lawyer. Mr. Day in many respects is a very remarkable man. He has always been a great reader and is thoroughly posted on all matters of current interest. He is now 86 years of age, and since his 75th birthday he has devoted himself closely to the study of music, finding in this beautiful science an interest which undoubtedly will prolong his life and which surely has introduced harmony into his later years.

WILLIAM E. DENMAN, a prominent citizen and prosperous farmer of Bowling Green, township, residing on his farm of 232 acres, was born in Knox County, Ohio, and is a son of William and Sarah Ann (Davidson) Denman.

Jonathan Denman, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of New Jersey. Late in life he located in Morrow County, Ohio, where he died in 1850 at the age of 82 years. He was twice married. His second wife bore him four children: John, Butler, Martha and William.

William Denman was born in 1812 in New Jersey, where he grew to manhood. In 1834 he came to Ohio and settled in Knox County near the Licking County line. Thirteen children were born to William and Sarah Ann (Davidson) Denman, namely: Mary Elizabeth, widow of James Williamson, residing in Morrow County; Martha Jane, deceased, who was the wife of Wesley James, of Missouri; Jonathan Brown, engaged in farming and stock-raising in Arkansas, who married Martha Reding; a son deceased in infancy; Clarissa Lucetta, deceased, who was the wife of Albert Ullman, of Missouri; Cressie Electa, who married John Blaze and lives in Arkansas; Cynthia Rosella, who married Isaac Rush and died near Mount Vernon, Ohio; Phoebe Elnora, unmarried, who resides at Chesterville, Ohio; Elvira, who died aged five years; Ida May, who married Joshua Chipps, of Medina County, Ohio; Joel Butler, who resides in Morrow County, where he is engaged in farming; Sarah Bell, who married John Gardner and resides at Fort Worth, Texas; and William E., the subject of this sketch. William Denman died in Morrow County in 1902 in his 90th year, his wife having passed away in 1893 when about 72 years of age.

William E. Denman was reared to manhood in Morrow County. His education was obtained in the district schools and the Chesterville High School, where he continued until 21 years of age, after which he went to Missouri and taught school for two years. Returning then to Morrow County, he attended school for another year, after which he taught during the winter months and farmed in the summer. he remained in Morrow County until 1877, when, having saved $1,000 by close economy and perseverance, he came to Marion County and purchased 103 acres of his present farm, on which there were but few improvements; only 30 acres of the land were cleared. The log house which was on the farm at the time of the purchase has been replaced by a brick house, which was erected in 1885. Mr. Denman has for the past few years been engaged in mixed farming, and raises a great many sheep and cattle. He is in every sense of the word a self-made man, starting in life on his own resources.

On, March 31, 1874, Mr. Denman was married to Sarah M. Howser, a daughter of Anthony and Eliza Howser, of Marion County, and they have had four children, as follows: Elva, who married Charles Melvin, of Marion, a bookkeeper by occupation, and has two children-Sarah Jane and Benjamin Bryan; William H., born in 1884, who was killed by lightning in August, 1906-he married Ethel Clark, a daughter of Charles and Margaret Clark, of Bowling Green township, and had two children, Annabell, and Cressie Delight; Benton Ellet, born September 26, 1886, who is attending the LaRue High School; and Wooster Butler, born February 11, 1887, also a student of the LaRue High School. Anthony Howser, the father of Mrs. Denman, was a native of Ohio and was for many years a resident of Scott township, Marion County, where he entered land at an early period. He died in 1883, aged 64 years, and his wife passed away at the age of 79 years.

Mr. Denman is a, Democrat in politics and is now serving his third term as justice of the peace, having served in this capacity for eight years. He is a member of LaRue Lodge, No. 463, F. & A. M., at LaRue and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of LaRue. Mr. Denman has always taken an active interest in the affairs of the township and is highly esteemed by all whose privilege it is to know him.

REV. JOSEPH M. DENNING, pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church at Marion, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, April 19, 1866, and is a son of Joseph and Catherine ( Welsh ) Denning.

Father Denning is of Irish extraction. His parents were born in County Louth, Province of Leinster, Ireland, and came to America with their parents, all settling at Cincinnati, where Joseph Denning followed the trade of carpenter. After completing the public school course at Cincinnati in 1881, Joseph M. Denning entered the Jesuit College of that city as a member of the humanity class. There he was graduated in 1887, completing the philosophical course, and in September of the same year he entered Mount St. Mary's Seminary of the West, Cincinnati, where he completed his theological course on June 14, 1891. On that date he was ordained to the holy priesthood. Until August, 1894, when he assumed the pastorate of St. Mary's Church, at Oxford, Ohio, Father Denning served as assistant at St. Patrick's, at London, Ohio, and at SS. Patrick and Peter's Cathedral, at Cincinnati. From Oxford, Father Denning was transferred to St. Denis' Church, Versailles, Darke County, Ohio, in 1898, and in 1901 became pastor of the church at Bellefontaine, and on April 15, 1904, accepted the call to St. Mary's at Marion.

Father Denning's piety and learning have already made him a power in this community. In addition to his exceptional gifts as a spiritual teacher, he has proven himself an ale administrator, as the material prosperity of his parish shows. The erection of the new parochial school building attached to St. Mary s, has been one of the results of his efforts and many improvements in church and parish illustrate his zeal and his executive ability.

ALBERT CHARLES DENZER, whose fine farm of 102 acres is situated in section 11, Waldo township, was born January 27, 1867, on his present farm, and is a son of Bernhard and Henrietta (Walter) Denzer.

Bernhard Denzer was born in Germany, but his father was a Frenchman. who had served as a rifleman in the Germany army. He had four children: Augustus, Charles, Bernhard and Louisa: All of the sons served in the German Army and Charles died in the service. Bernhard obtained a fair education and then learned the tailoring trade. About 1843 he married Henrietta Walter, who was born in Germany and was a daughter of Charles and Eva (Rose) Walter. She had two brothers, Charles and Augustus. Shortly after their marriage, Bernhard Denzer and wife started on a sailing vessel for America and after a very stormy passage of 86 days, landed at New York, where Bernhard worked as a tailor for two years. He then went to the State of Delaware and secured work on a canal, his wife in the meantime keeping a boardinghouse. After three years there, they removed to Columbus, but in a very short time left that city and came to Marion County, where a number of Germans had settled. At Columbus they met Bernhard Denzer's only sister, Louisa, then Mrs. Barth. The mother had died in Germany; the father, after the death of his wife, had decided to come to America and Mrs. Barth had started with him but he had died at sea. Mrs. Barth subsequently died at Columbus.

Bernhard Denzer and wife had a small amount of capital when they came to Marion County, with which they bought 22 acres of land in Richland township. An old log house was standing on the place and the family lived in it for several years. Later this farm was sold and 40 acres were bought on the State road in Richland township, which were subsequently sold when Mr. Denzer bought 80 acres in Waldo township. On that farm he lived for a number of years, in the meantime buying other lands and at length bought the farm on which Albert Charles resides, and here he died, May 26, 1902, aged 75 years, leaving over 300 acres of land to his family. His wife survives, hale and hearty, although she is 80 years of age. They had six children, as follows: Amelia, born in New York City, who married Alexander Briggs; Ferdinand, born in Marion County, who was accidentally killed by a horse at the age of 44 years; Charles, deceased in middle life, whose wife was Magdalena Axthelm; David, who married Amelia Ossing; William Hugo, a trustee of Waldo township, who married Margaret Vaughan; and Albert Charles.

Albert Charles Denzer was reared in Waldo township and went to work in the fields when he was very small. All the family worked hard in those days, his mother often working by his side-and she kept on working very often after all the rest of the family had gone to sleep. In 1901 his father divided his land among his children, and the farm of 102 acres, with a five-room frame house, was Albert's share. In a way this residence is unique, having been constructed entirely of walnut by the former owner of the property, David Smith. The substantial barn was built by Mr. Denzer after he took possession. He carries on general farming and stock-raising.

On April 19, 1900, Mr. Denzer was married to Pauline Geckle, who was born December 15, 1872, and is a daughter of William and Theresa (Shimpf) Geckle, the former of whom was born in Marion County, where his father had been a pioneer. The mother of Mrs. Denzer was born in Germany and had been brought to America by her parents, when 12 years old. Mr. and Mrs. Geckle had six children, namely: Rose, wife of Charles Himler; Pauline; William; Charles; Samuel and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. Geckle reside on their old farm in Richland township.

Mr. Denzer, like his father and brothers, is a stanch Democrat. The whole family belong to the Lutheran Church, in which Mr. Denzer was confirmed, May 29, 1881.

WILLIAM HUGO DENZER, a trustee of Waldo township, owns a valuable farm of 105 acres, situated in section 11. Mr. Denzer was born on his father's farm in Waldo township, April 27, 1863, and is a son of Bernhard and Henrietta (Waller) Denzer.

Bernhard Denzer was born in Germany, but his father was a native of France, who had become a rifleman in the German Army. He married in Germany and had four children: Augustus, Charles, Bernhard and Louisa. His wife died in Germany and his death occurred at sea when on his way to America. Bernhard Denzer, the third son, learned the tailoring trade and after coming to America, about 1845, worked at his trade in New York.. He then went to the State of Delaware, where he obtained a chance to assist In the building of a canal, His wife in the meantime keeping a boarding-house. During the three years they lived there they saved some money and with this they came to Ohio and located it Columbus. where they remained a few months. As other Germans had settled in Richland township, Marion County, they decided to, also make their home here. Upon coming here, Bernhard Denzer worked by the day for George Retterer, renting a place on the State road in Richland township. Later he bought a small farm of 22 acres on this road on which property stood all old log house, with floor so full of holes that when Mr. Denzer worked at tailoring, his thimble would often be lost through the cracks. He took in tailoring, besides attending to regular farm work. After clearing a portion of this farm, he sold it and bought one of 40 acres in Richland township, the greater part of which he had under cultivation when he sold it and bought a 92-acre farm in Waldo township. In the frame house standing on this property, William Hugo Denzer was born. Later, Bernhard Denzer added to his possessions by purchasing a 102-acre farm in Waldo township, which was encumbered with a dowery right, the owner of which, Catherine Smith, resided with the Denzer family for 20 years. Mr. Denzer then bought from James Downing 115 acres, 10 of which were deeded to one son and 105 to William Hugo, which constitutes the latter's farm at the present time. Still later, he bought 66 acres, under the condition that an aged lady, Mary Smith, should have a home on it. Thus from a very small beginning, Bernhard Denzer became one of the well-to-do men of Marion County. In all his efforts he was helped by his capable, industrious wife, who still survives, aged 80 years. Bernhard Denzer died May 26, 1902, at the age of 75 years. They had six children: namely: Amelia, born in New York City, who married Alexander Briggs; Ferdinand, who died aged 44 years; Charles, who died aged 44 years: David; William Hugo; and Albert Charles.

William Hugo Denzer grew up on the home farm and from boyhood did his full share of the hard work, only attending school when his tasks, were finished. His farm was deeded to him by his father. When he took possession, No improvements had been made. In 1894 he built a large, substantial barn and in 1903 erected his comfortable seven-room frame residence. He carries on general farming and has some full-blooded stock-cattle, sheep and hogs.

On November 2, 1887, Mr. Denzer was married to Margaret Vaughan, who was born on a farm in Morrow County, Ohio, November 1, 1866, and is a daughter of Lindley and Laura (Benedict) Vaughan. The father of Mrs. Denzer was born near Mount Gilead and the mother near South Woodbury, Morrow County, coming from pioneer families. They had 11 children: Clinton; Herbert; Robert; Joseph; Elizabeth, who married Henry Schultz; Margaret; Rhoda, who married John Hickman; Mary, who married William Loren; Johanna, who married Harry Hull; Laura, who married Bert Bending; and Thaddens. The father of Mrs. Denzer died in February, 1900, at the age of 65 years, but the mother still survives and resides on the old homestead. Her youngest son, Thaddeus, went as a missionary to India, in the fall of 1905, under the auspices of the Society of Friends.

Mr. and Mrs. Denzer have three children: Alice, who is at home; Ralph, who is employed in The Marion Steam Shovel Works; and Harold, who is also at home. Mrs. Denzer was reared in the religious faith of the Society of Friends. All the Denzers are Lutherans and William Hugo Denzer has served as one of the church trustees. Politically, he is a Democrat and is serving in his sixth year as township trustee; he has also filled the office of supervisor. On January 5, 1907, he was nominated for membership on the board of managers of the Marlon County Agricultural Society and on the 12th of the month was elected. He is a representative member of a very fine family which is known and respected all over Marion County.

MILTON B. DICKERSON, postmaster at Marion, is one of the city's prominent and substantial men. He was born at Marion, Ohio, April 19, 1855, and is a son of Theodore E. and Eliza C. (Walker) Dickerson, and a grandson of Hon. Joseph Dickerson, formerly a member of the New Jersey State Legislature.

Theodore H. Dickerson, father of Milton B., was born in New Jersey, came to Marion in 1853, and died in 1890 in this city, at the age of 63 years. At the opening of the Civil War he entered the army as a private and after a faithful service of three years was honorably discharged, having been promoted to the rank of 1st lieutenant. By profession he was a dentist and he also engaged in a jewelry business. He married Eliza C. Walker, who was a daughter of Col. Thomas Walker, who for 30 years was registrar of the Iowa Land office. Mrs. Dickerson died in 1891, at the age of 53 years. Milton B. was their only child.

Milton B. Dickerson was educated in the Marion schools. During 1870 and 1871 he served as page in the Ohio State Senate, where he made many friends. After his return to Marion, he entered the employ of the manufacturing firm of McMurray & Fisher, where he served his apprenticeship as a blacksmith and followed his trade until 1880, when, in partnership with William E. Moore of Marion, he engaged in mining for three years in Colorado, and then came back to Ohio. He was baggage master on the New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad for three years, and was then taken into the office. In 1888 he was transferred to Galion and made agent for the company. His efficiency was so marked that in 1890 he was made general agent for the Chcago & Erie and the New York, Lake Erie & Western railroad companies at Marion, and served in this capacity until other responsibilities caused him to resign railroad work.

Ever since his return to Marion in 1890, Mr. Dickerson has been closely identified with the interests of this city. In 1893 he was elected a member of the City Council and later later became its president, and served through a second term and also served 12 years as a member of the Board of Education. Politically he has always been identified with the Republican party. On July 1, 1904, he was appointed postmaster at Marion. As his assistant he has Horace S. Williams, a well known citizen, and employment is given to 25 individuals. Its receipts are very large and it is generally conceded that its entire management is such as to meet with popular approval.

On June 10, 1885, Mr. Dickerson was married to Mary J. Mossman, a daughter of Carlisle and Margaret Mossman, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the latter in Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Mossman came from old Presbyterian families. Mr.. and Mrs. Dickerson have five children, namely: Mildred Walker, Malcolm Gordon, Eliza Theodore, Margaret Mary and Milton Hedges.

Since 1891 the family home has been on Kensington place, where Mr. Dickerson erected a fine residence. Fraternally Mr. Dickerson has devoted his time exclusively to the Masonic fraternity. He is a past master, past high priest, past thrice illustrious master and past commander. He is also deputy grand master of the Grand Council, R. & S. M., of Ohio.

GEORGE DIETSCH, (PICTURE) deceased, whose portrait accompanies this sketch, is recalled to memory by kindred and a large circle of friends and acquaintances, with feelings of respect and warm expressions of esteem. He was born in Richland township, Marion County, Ohio, September 3, 1842, and died in Marion township, January 3, 1894. He was a son of Michael and Dorothy (Strohm) Dietsch, natives of Hatten, Alsace-Lorraine, France, who came to America and settled in Marion County, Ohio, among the pioneers.

George Dietsch was reared in Richland township and attended the district schools. He remained a resident of the township, with the exception of two and a half years which he spent in the service of his country, as a soldier in the Civil War, until about 1871, when he moved to Marion and conducted! a grocery business, in partnership with a Mr. Dening, for nine years. He had purchased 160 acres of land in Marion township, which was the nucleus of the present home farm of 240 acres, and on this Mr. Dietsch moved with his family and lived upon it until his death. During his life he did a great deal of improving and built the residence and several barns. After his death, his widow purchased 80 acres additional and has continued to improve the place, adding a substantial new barn and each year making the property more valuable. Mr. Dietsch was a practical farmer and had operated one of his father's farms before he moved to Marion.

Mr. Dietsch was a valued member of the Grand Army of the Republic. After serving two and a half years, as a defender of his country he was wounded and on this account was honorably discharged from the service.

On April 5, 1866, Mr. Dietsch was united in marriage with Caroline Schrote, who is a daughter of Frederick and Lydia ( Reeley) Schrote. The father of Mrs. Dietsch was born in Germany and was a bov of 10 years when the family started for America. They were attended by great misfortune as cholera broke out and the grandfather and an aunt of Mrs. Dietsch succumbed to it and were buried at sea. The grandmother and her two sons, Frederick and Jacob, who were left, landed on the strange shores, doubtless feeling bereft indeed. Arrangements had been made so that the little party safely reached their destination --Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio. The mother of Mrs. Dietsch was born in Pleasant township and was a daughter of Godfried Reeley, who was born in Pennsylvania and was also a pioneer in Marion County. Mrs. Dietsch is the eldest in a family of 11 children, the others being named as follows: Catharine, widow of Daniel Kaufman, residing in Marion township; Hannah, widow of John Dietsch, brother of our subject; Jacob, of Richland township; Christina F., wife of David Kaufman, of Pleasant township; Charles Frederick, of Pleasant township; Lydia, who resides on the home place in Pleasant township; Henry, who died aged one and one-half years; John, who lives with his sisters on the home farm; a babe that died in infancy; and Clara, who also lives.at home. The father of this family was found lifeless in one his own fields, and what made the calamity of more than usual severity to Mrs. Dietsch was that on the same night her husband died. in December, 1887.

Mr. and Mrs. Dietsch had 11 children born to them, as follows: Catherine, wife of Dr. E. F. Raffensperger, a dentist, at Marion; Hannah, living at home; Caroline, wife of John Kries, of Richland township, and the mother of two children--Benjamin and Victor; George, deceased at the age of 17 years; John, at home; Jacob, also at home; Lydia, deceased at the age of one year and 10 months; and Bertha, Albert, Florence and Stella, all at home. The children have been given excellent advantages of all kinds and they are well and favorably known in their section of the county. The family belongs to the German Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mrs. Dietsch, with the assistance of her capable sons, continues to carry on farming operations and has the satisfaction of knowing that she owns one of the most valuable as well as fine appearing farms of the township.

AUSTIN M. DILTS, a resident of Caledonia for almost 40 years, president of the Farmers' Savings Bank, of Caledonia, since its organization, is one of the most prominent business men of the village. He was born July 13, 1837, in Muskingum County, Ohio, and is a son of Peter and Sarah (Knight) Dilts and a grandson of Peter Dilts, Sr.

Peter Dilts, Sr., came with his wife, Elizabeth Dilts, from New Jersey to Ohio about 1812 and located on a. farm near Zanesville, where he lived until his death in 1845.

Peter Dilts, the father of our subject, was born on his father's farm near Zanesville as was also his Son, Our subject. He lived there until 1852, when he came to Claridon township, Marion County, and here lived until his death in 1888. He was united in marriage March 15, 1837, with Sarah Knight, who was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of Jesse Knight, who located in Muskingum County, Ohio, at a very early period. Peter Dilts was a Democrat in politics and took m active interest in the of his party. He was a member of the Disciples' Church.

M. Dilts, in his 15th. year, accompanied his parents from Muskingum County to Marion County. He lived for 10 years on the home farm within one mile of Caledonia, after which he left home and worked for some time on the plains. He went to California in 1864 and worked in San Francisco for four years, beginning as a common laborer and in six months being promoted to foreman, in which capacity he continued until 1868, when he returned to Ohio and engaged in the grocery and provision business at Caledonia for some time. He subsequently engaged in the dry goods business until 1882, after that was in the sawmill and lumber business until 1899, when he closed out the business and became assistant cashier of the Caledonia Deposit Bank, in which he was a stockholder. Mr. Dilts was one of the organizers and has been president of the Farmers' Savings Bank, of Caledonia, since its establishment, July 2, 1906. Politically, Mr. Dilts is independent in home affairs, but is Democratic in National politics. He has held various township offices, having been justice of the peace one term, member of the Village Council two terms, member of the School Board three years and mayor of the village two terms. Fraternally, he is a member of Caledonia Lodge, No. 200, I.0.0.F., and Calanthe Lodge, No. 116, K. of P., both of Caledonia, having joined the former in 1868, and having been a member of the latter for 32 years.

Mr. Dilts was married (first) in 1871 to Mary Boyer, of Crawford County, Ohio. She died in 1892. He was married (second) in 1893 to Mrs. Kate (Stanley) Gearhart, of Crawford County. They have three children: Wayne Stanley, aged 13 years; Marie, aged nine years; and Florence, who is four years old. Mr. and Mrs. Dilts are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

ROBERT S. DOMBAUGH, M. D., physician and surgeon, at Waldo, was born July 27, 1868, at Marion, Ohio, and is a son of Philip and Sarah Allen (Deardorff) Dombaugh.

Philip Dombaugh was born in German and accompanied his parents to America at the age of 10 years. They settled first at Gallon, Ohio, and later at Bucyrus. After his marriage, Philip Dombaugh removed to Marion, where he was clerk of the courts for 15 years. He reared a family of nine children, namely: Philip Emerson, residing at Toledo; Harry Mason, who graduated from the United States Naval Academy, at Annapolis, Maryland, and is now serving as a lieutenant commander in the United States Navy; Charles who died in 1876; William, residing in California; Edgar A., deceased; Victor, who is connected with The Huber Manufacturing Company, at Marion; Robert S.; John, who died aged 19 years; and J. Frederick, who is connected with The Norris & Christian Lime & Stone Company, at Marion. Philip Dombaugh died in October, 1905, his wife having passed away in 1894.

Robert S. Dombaugh was reared at Marion and in 1888 was graduated from the Marion High School. He immediately entered upon the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Hamilton, of Marion, and late in the same year entered the Columbus Medical College, where he was graduated in 1891. For a short season he practiced at Marion, but March 20, 1892, saw him established at Waldo, where he has continued ever since.

Dr. Dombaugh was married July 10, 1896, to Alice Straub, who was born in Waldo township, Marion County, Ohio, in 1869, daughter of John and Eliza (Osborn) Straub, of Waldo township. The father of Mrs. Dombaugh is deceased, but the mother still resides in Waldo township. Mr. and Mrs. Straub had six children, as follows: Flora J., who is the wife of Rev. J. C. Schaaf; Zoa, who is the wife of William Hoke; Frank, deceased; Alice; Della, who is the wife of John P. Augenstein; and a babe deceased in infancy.

Dr. and Mrs. Dombaugh have two children, Harry and Mildred. Dr. Dombaugh erected his handsome 10-roorn residence, in 1901, on property he had purchased from the Culp heirs. With his family he belongs to the German Reformed Church.

Fraternally, Dr. Dombaugh belongs to Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. & A. M.; to Whetstone Lodge, No. 817, Knights of Pythias, at Waldo; and to Waldo Lodge, of Odd Fellows. He is a stockholder in the Farm.ers' Bank at Waldo.

LEWIS CASS DONNENWIRTH, cashier of the Caledonia Deposit Bank and one of the most successful and enterprising business men of the village, was born August 11, 1851, in New Washington, Crawford County, Ohio and is a son of George and Caroline (Derr) Donnenwirth.

George Donnenwrth was born in Alsace, France, in 1828 and when 18 years old came to this country and located at Columbus, Ohio, subsequently removing to New Washington, Crawford County, where he engaged in his trade as blacksmith. He was elected treasurer of Crawford County in 1856 by the Democratic party and moved to Bucyrus, where he lived until his death, November 1, 1884. He also served as township trustee, justice of the peace and as mayor of Bucyrus.

Lewis Cass Donnenwirth, who was named after Gen. Lewis Cass, was five years old when his parents moved from New Washington, to Bucyrus, where he lived until he was 18 years of age. He then returned to New Washington, where he served an apprenticeship at black smithing, after which he engaged in business for himself, in which he continued until January 1, 1886. In 1885 he was elected clerk of the courts of Crawford County and served two. full terms, six years, and was afterwards deputy for one year under his successor. in 1893 he came to Caledonia and became cashier of the Caledonia Deposit Bank, a position he has continued to fill to the present time.

On May 1, 1872, Mr. Donnenwirth was united in marriage with Helena Guiss, a native of New Washington, Ohio, and a daughter of Christian and Barbara (Hildebrand) Guiss. Four children were born to our subject and his wife, all of whom passed away in infancy. Mr. Donnenwirth has always been a Democrat and takes an active interest in the political affairs of his village, township and county. When 22 or 23 years old he was elected township clerk and served in that capacity until 1893, with the exception of one year when he was village clerk. At different times he has been village treasurer and rnayor and has served on the Board of Education. He is a member of Calanthe Lodge, No. 116, K. of P., of Caledonia, and he and his wife are both members of the German Lutheran Church.

RICHARD R. DOUCE, a representative citizen and prosperous farmer and stock-raiser in the environs of Marion, owning a farm of 245 acres in Tully township, was born in Claridon township, Marion County, Ohio, in July, 1852, and is a son of Robert Douce, who came with his father, Vincent Douce, to this locality from England as early as 1822. Robert Douce was married in 1839 to Elizabeth Thew, a native of England, who came to America when three years old with her parents.

After completing the public school course in Claridon township, Richard R. Douce took a commercial course at Sharp's Business College, at Delaware. After his marriage he and his wife settled on the old Douce homestead, and as the parents had died he operated the home farm until his younger brothers were able to take charge. He then removed to his own farm of 66 acres and since then has acquired 245 acres in Tully township. Very recently Mr. Douce has erected a beautiful modern home on Mount Vernon avenue, one mile out of the heart of the city.

On April 4, 1877 Mr. Douce was married to Rebecca McKinstrv a daughter of Matthew McKinstry, one of the pioneers of this section. They have had eight children namely: Grace E., who is the wife of Irwin Auld, a farmer residing in Tulley township Matthew G., who married Dora Slack: and resides on the old homestead, having previously been a popular teacher in the public schools of Caledonia, for two years; Robert A., a farmer of Tully township, whose wife, Lizzie King, a daughter of Dr. J. I. King, formerly taught public school and also music--they have one child, Richard John; Bessie P., deceased in infancy; Elmer J., residing at home; Marshall, deceased in infancy; Richard Earl, a student in the Ma ion: High School; and William Franklin, also at school.

Mr. and Mrs. Douce are members o the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church of which religious body Mr. Douce has been a member for 44 years and frequently a church official. Fraternally, he is with Caledonia Lodge, No. 116, Knight of Pythias, and both he and his wife belong to the Rathbone Sisters.

DANIEL S. DRAKE was born December 12,1805, in Orange County, New York. He was the son of Judge William S. Drake, who settled in what is now Waldo township in October, 1807. William S. Drake served six months as a captain in the War of 1812 and then as Indian agent under General Harrison. From 1815 to 1838 he was a mail route agent, owning and operating a number of routes, that from Columbus to Sandusky being one of them. Before Waldo township was set off from Delaware County and organized, he was an associate judge of the Common Pleas Court of Delaware County. He died September 1, 1851. His son, Daniel S. Drake, owned a large stock farm just north of Waldo, where he resided until his death December 30, 1881.

EASTON E. DROWN, sheriff of Marion County, was born in Montgomery township, Marion County, Ohio, August 25, 1852, and is a son of Gilbert G. and Elvina (Perkins) Drown.

The parents of Mr. Drown were prosperous farming people of Montgomery township for a long period, having come to Marion County in 1824 from Marietta, Ohio. They reared a family of 12 children. The father died in 1881. The mother died June 11, 1867.

Easton E. Drown was reared on his father's farm and was educated in the common schools of Montgomery township. He continued to follow an agricultural life until 1884, when he embarked in a hardware business at Agosta. Later he removed to California and after a residence there for two years returned to Agosta. where he carried on a hardware business for two years. For the following two years he was connected with The Huber Manufacturing Company and the following eight years he was traveling salesman for The Houghton Buggy Company, later The Houghton-Merkel Company, his election to his present office closing that business connection.

Mr. Drown is a prominent member of the Republican party in Marion County, and in the fall of 1905 he was elected sheriff on its ticket, his majority over his opponent being 226. He has continued to perform the responsible duties of this office to the satisfaction of all law-abiding people and is assisted by Albert C. Johnston, as deputy.

On March 7, 1877, Mr. Drown was united in marriage with Anna E. Stanclift. Both he and his wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. Fraternally he is an Odd Fellow.

RICHARD CLIFTON DUGAN, D. O., (PICTURE) located at Marion, is the leading osteopathic medical practitioner in this section. He was born at Millersburg, Holmes County, Ohio, in 1870. His parents were David and Hannah (Cullen) Dugan, natives of Ohio. The father is a resident of Millersburg. The mother died in 1897.

Richard Clifton Dugan was reared on his father's farm in Holmes County. After completing the public school course at Millersburg, he entered Avalon College, at Trenton, Missouri. He then became interested in osteopathy and entered Dr. Still's American School of Osteopathy, at Kirkville, Missouri, where he was graduated in 1900. On February 6, 1900, he entered into practice at Marion and his efforts have met with success, his patients being located all over the county.

In 1897 Dr. Dugan was married to Mattie Burklew, of Holmes County, Ohio. They occupy a fine residence which Dr. Dugan erected at No. 126 South Vine street, where he has his office. They are members of the Central Christian Church. Dr. Dugan belongs to the National and to the Ohio osteopathic societies. As a citizen he is enterprising and public-spirited. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

GEORGE WESLEY DUNBAR. whose farm of 100 acres is located in Prospect township, was born February 28, 1842, in the old log house on the home farm in Prospect township, Son of Joseph and Mary (Kepner) Dunbar.

Joseph Dunbar was born in Pennsylvania and was of English and German ancestry, his father being of English descent and his mother, of German. He was one of a family of four children, namely : William, Lewis, Mrs Marv Bruner and Joseph. He was reared in Pennsylvania and came to Ohio when a young mail, settling first in Pickaway County, later coming to Marion County and locating in Prospect township,. He subsequently entered land in Iowa but continued to reside in Marion County, where he died February 8, 1871, aged 74 years, at which time he owned 125 acres of land in Prospect township. His widow died in March, 1884, aged 84 years. He made many trips across the country, in assisting several of his children to move to, Iowa. There were 14 children born to Joseph and Mary (Kepner) Dunbar, five of whom died in infancy. Those who were reared to maturity were: Benjamin, deceased; Betsy, who married H.Sailor-both now deceased; Mary, who married A. Harsh-both now deceased; Catherine, who married J. Romoser both now deceased; Maria, who married Joseph Bucy--both now deceased; John, deceased; Harriet deceased, who was the wife of Christopher Almendinger; William; and George Wesley.

George W. Dunbar was reared in Prospect township on the old home farm and attended school about four months each winter for several years at the old log schoolhouse which had one long window on one side and hewn-logs, supported by pegs, for seats. The country at this time was unsettled, consisting principally, of swamps and timberland, with but few roads, and the homes were chiefly log cabins, with here and there a, frame building. Wild turkeys, squirrels and other small game were very plentiful, and Mr. Dunbar often went hunting with his old-fashioned gun, though his father had one of the few good rifles of those days. He and his brothers assisted with the clearing of the land and also the other work on the farm, which was all done by hand, the scythe and the cradle being the only implements then in use for harvesting the grain and mowing the grass. After their marriage, his wife sold her farm near Worthington and they bought 50 acres of land in Prospect township, to which Mr. Dunbar later added 50 acres of the old Dunbar home farm. Here he has since been engaged in general farming. In 1883 he built his present residence, having previous1y lived for 17 years on the other side of the farm.

Mr. Dunbar was married December 21, 1865, to Mary Elizabeth Sanford, who was born at Columbus, Ohio, January 19, 1849, and was the only child of Isaac and Sarah Jane (Keys) Sanford, both of whom died at Columbus, when she was a child of 18 months. Isaac Sanford was born in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio, and was a son of Amasa Sanford, one of the early pioneers of the county, who lived to an advanced age. Mrs. Sanford was a native of England. After the death of her parents, Mrs. Dunbar resided until her marriage with her uncle John Nickelson, in Pleasant township. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dunbar, namely: John, residing at Marion, who married Carrie Byers and has two children-Frank and George Lee, Albin, a resident of Prospect township, who married Mary Landon and has two children--Edward and Florence; Nora, who, married Thomas P. Landon, of Prospect township, a brother of Mrs. Albin Dunbar, and has two children-Maud and Helen; Robert Lee, living in Delaware County, who married Atha Davis and has two children-Fern and Norman; and Sanford Elmer, deceased at the age of one year, four months and eight days. Eliza Hughes, who was born February 10, 1892, and whose father died in March 1900, also lives with Mr. and Mrs. Dunbar.

Politically, Mr. Dunbar is a stanch-Democrat and has served several terms as township trustee and as a member of the School Board. He is fraternally connected with the Odd Fellows' lodge at Prospect and is a member of the Baptist Church. Mrs. Dunbar is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

ANDREW DUTT, a prosperous farmer of Pleasant township, residing on his farm of 183 acres situated in section 2, was born on his father's farm in France, May 16, 1831, and is a son od Jacob and Mary (Peterman) Dutt.

Jacob Dutt and his wife were both natives of Obermodern, Alsace-Lorraine, France, where the former engaged in farming near Strasburg. For six years he was a soldier under Napoleon I. In 1842 he came to America with his wife and family, crossing the ocean in a sailing vessel, which required 33 days to make the trip. After landing in New York, they took a boat on the Hudson River to Albany, reached Buffalo by way of the Erie Canal, then crossed Lake Erie to Sandusky, and from that city the remainder of the trip was made by wagons down the "Mud" pike to Marion County, Ohio. Here Mr. Dutt bought an 80-acre tract of land in Pleasant township from George Jacobs. Scarcely any of the land had been cleared. Wild game was very plentiful, including turkeys and deer. Many of the Wyandot Indians still inhabited the county. Jacob Dutt erected a log house and after clearing the land he engaged in farming during the remainder of his life. His death occurred at Marion, in 1876, at the age of 83 years. His wife died in 1871, aged 78 years. They were the parents of four children: George, deceased, who married Sallie Schrom; Margaret, deceased, who first married E. Kraner, and after his death became the wife of John Coon; Michael, deceased, who married Catherine Meiley; and Andrew.

Andrew Butt was 10 years old when he came to this country with his parents and settled in Marion County. At the age of 16 he went to Columbus to learn the baker's trade, at which he worked for two years, when his health failed and he was obliged to return home. He then spent some time in visiting, going first to New York, and from there to Canada, and then back to New York, after which he returned to Marion County. In 1856 he bought from his father-in-law a tract of 80 acres, which is part of his present farm. The large seven-room house on the place was built by him in 1868. Ten years later he bought a tract of 40 acres from Philip Fromer, and in 1890 added another 63-acre farm, acquiring it from Charles Augenstein, making in all a farm of 183 acres, all in one body, although lying on both sides of the road. He also bought 40 acres of his father's farm, the home place, which he gave to his son-in-law, Charles Lust, who had married his daughter Ellen, who later purchased the remaining 40 acres, subsequently selling the entire tract of 80 acres to George Dutt. For a considerable period, until 1880, Mr. Dutt was extensively engaged in dealing in horses and hogs, shipping to New York, Pittsburg and Buffalo. In 1906 he retired from farm life, renting out the land, but still resides on the place. In 1862, he was drafted for service as a soldier, but secured a substitute to serve in his place. Politically, Mr. Dutt is a Democrat. He served for a number of years on the School Board, and was road supervisor for over 20 years. He is a member of the Lutheran Church.

Mr. Dutt was married January 20, 1854, to Helena Keist, who was born May 14, 1836, in Palmback, Baden, Germany, and is a daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Schleiht) Keist, who came from Baden, Germany, in 1848, making the trip by sailing vessel in 65 days. They located in Marion County, Ohio, as early settles, and both died at Agosta. They were the parents of 11 children: Jacob, Catherine, Caroline, Caroline (a), Helena, Rickea, Fred, Phoebe, Margaret, Minnie and Sophie, all of whom are deceased except Margaret and Mrs. Dutt.

There have been four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Dutt, namely: Andrew, who died in infancy; Mary, who died aged three years; Ellen who was born March 18, 1862, married (first) Charles Lust, and after his death married John Martin, and had two children by the first marriage--Charles and Pearlena, both deceased; and Henry, residing at Marion, who married Christina Lambert, and had seven children, namely: Edward, Clara, Ellen J., Raymond H., May M., Pearlena H. and Herman ( deceased ) .

GEORGE E. DWYER, who has been was born November 11, 1857, on the old James Graham farm in Marion township, and is a son of Edmond Dwyer, who was born in Ireland and came to this country in 1853. He located in Marion township, where he engaged in farming. He died in 1903. Politically he was an ardent Democrat.

George E. Dwyer was reared on his father's farm in Marion township and obtained his education in the schools of Marion and Wyandot counties, and also at the Ohio Normal University at Ada, after which he taught school for three years in both counties. He then engaged as a salesman in the grocery of Timothy Kelly of Marion, remaining with him for two years. He then served as township clerk for four years. He was subsequently employed for about eight years in the county surveyor's office under J. W. Scott and H. Hill, and then became assistant city engineer under Messrs. Scott and Ault. In 1903 he was appointed city engineer, which position he still fills.

Mr. Dwyer was married in 1886 to Mary Stewart, of Marion, and they have four children living: George Edmond; Harley Marcellus; Mary Clare, and Leo Patrick. Two children are deceased. Fraternally, Mr. Dwyer is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Eagles. He belongs to St. Mary's Catholic Church.

JOHN H. DWYER, proprietor of a stone quarry at Marion, was born in Marion County, Ohio, in 1855, and is a son of Thomas and Ann Dwyer, both of whom were natives of Ireland. They came to Marion County in 1851-52, where the father engaged in farming. He died in Big Island township, in 1869.

John H. Dwyer was reared in Marion County and attended the district schools, continuing to work on the farm until he was about 30 years of age. For the 10 following years he conducted a grocery business and for the same length of time was interested in real estate. In 1906 he bought out the Fairbanks stone quarry, which he has been operating ever since, dealing in both building and crushed stone.

In 1878, Mr. Dwyer was married to Margaret Molloy, a daughter of James Molloy, of Marion, and they have seven children, namely: Mary, who is a Sister of Charity; Agnes. who is the wife of A. W. Barr, of North Yakima, Washington; Kate, a graduate of the Marion Business College, who is bookkeeper for a large firm in Cincinnati; Cecilia, who is also a bookkeeper; and Gertrude, John and Clare, who are attending school.

Mr. Dwyer and family belong to St. Mary's Catholic Church. He is a member of the Catholic Knights of Ohio, and of the Knights of Columbus.