REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS

MARION COUNTY, OHIO

1907 HISTORY

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BENJAMIN ISAAC WADDEL, a prominent general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on his well-improved farm of 82 acres, situated in section 20, Waldo township, also owns a farm of 30 acres in Morrow County. Mr. Waddel was born in Waldo township, Marion County, Ohio, September 11, 1858, and is a son of Isaac and Margaret (Strine) Waddel.

Isaac Waddel was born in Marion County, Ohio, February 6, 1831, and was a son of John and Margaret (Giffin) Waddel. In March, 1821, his parents came to Richland township, Marion County, from what is now West Virginia. They had 10 children, namely: William, Daniel, Samuel, John, Benjamin, Isaac, Nancy, Elizabeth, Jane and Mary.

Isaac Waddel married Margaret Strine, who was born in Richland township, Marion County, Ohio, April 5, 1834, being a daughter of John and Mary (Moneysmith) Strine. John Strine, who was of German descent, settled in Marion County at a very early day, coming from Pennsylvania. The following sons and daughters constituted the family of John and Mary Strine: Elizabeth, Catherine, Mary, Nancy, Henry, Jacob (who served in the Civil War and died of fever contracted in the army), John (also a soldier of the Civil War), Peter (who was killed at the battle of Lookout Mountain), James, Martin, William Henderson and Margaret.

After his marriage, Isaac Waddel bought a farm of 80 acres in Waldo township, but in the following year traded this property for a farm of 80 acres lying just across the road. After living on the second farm for four years, he sold out and purchased a farm in Westfield township, Morrow County, on which he died November 6, 1859. His widow, who was married at a later date to J. B. Culp, resides on the farm just across the road. J. B. Culp was born in Pennsylvania and is a son of Andrew Culp, who was an early settler in Marion County. J. B. Culp was married (first) to Catherine Strine, a sister of his second wife. He served as a soldier for a year and a half during the Civil War and was married to Mrs. Waddel after his return from the army. Isaac and Margaret Waddel had three sons, namely: John S., born July 15, 1854; James G., born September 9, 1856; and Benjamin Isaac.

Benjamin Isaac Waddel was six months old when the family moved to Morrow County, where his father died in the following November. He remained at home working for his mother until be reached his majority, then worked on neighboring farms for two years, after which he rented land and while operating it lived at home. He had a part interest in the Morrow County homestead of his father's estate, and lived there for two years following his marriage, and then sold his interest and in 1886 bought his present farm in Waldo township, which adjoins the farm on which he was born. His present comfortable residence was remodeled from a small house which was standing on the property when he came here. He has engaged in general farming and stock-raising and is known as one of the successful agriculturists of his township.

Mr. Waddel was married March 13, 1884, to Emma V. Harmon, who died September 22, 1903, at the age of 40 years and 5 months. She was a daughter of Peter and Hester (Stauffer) Harmon, of Morrow County, who had six children in all, the other five being named Nancy E., Anna L., John W., Perry F. and William H. Mr. and Mrs. Waddel had three children, namely: Walter L., born July 11, 1885, who was married March 27, 1907, to Mabel A. Denman, daughter of John and Minnie Denman, of Marion County; and Estella M., born November 3, 1890, and Carlos R., born July 7, 1893, who lives at home. The elder son, in partnership with, Walter Klingle, owns and operates a threshing and corn-shredder outfit, and is also interested in a sawmill.

Politically, Mr. Waddel is identified with the Prohibition party, but having no desire for office takes only a good citizen's interest in politics. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN E. WADDELL, (PICTURE) president of the Marion National Bank, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, has been identified with this large and influential financial institution for the past four years and is one of the representative men of the city of Marion. Mr. Waddell was born in Waldo township, Marion County, Ohio, December 28, 1851, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Emery) Waddell.

William Waddell was born in Ohio County, Virginia (now West Virginia), December 25, 1820, and was a son of John and Margaret (Giffin) Waddell. In March, 1821, his parents migrated to Marion County, Ohio, coming over the mountains in a covered wagon, and settling as pioneers in Richland township. There he was reared to manhood and subsequently established a home of his own in Waldo township. On November 7, 1844, he married Elizabeth Emery, who was a daughter of John and Catherine Emery. William Waddell died March 28, 19078, aged 86 years, 3 months and 3 days. He had been a resident of Marion County for 86 years--almost the whole period of his life.

John E. Waddell was reared On his father's farm, where he continued to live until the fall of 1888. His education was obtained in the public-schools and for some six years he engaged in teaching. In the autumn of 1888, he came to Marion and was established in an insurance business here, in partnership with Michael Waddell and James A Knapp, up to May, 19033, when he became assistant cashier of the Marion National Bank. On January I, 1904, he became cashier of the institution, one year later he was elected vice-president as well as cashier, and on January 1, 1906, he became president. During his whole connection with the bank, his careful, conservative course has greatly contributed to its prosperity.

On October 31, 1873, Mr. Waddell was united in marriage with Margaret Jacoby, a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Worline) Jacoby. They have two children, namely: Stella, who is the wife of Earl Smart, a shoe merchant at Marion; and Homer, who is also engaged in the shoe business here. Mr. Waddell gave both his children many educational and social advantages and both are graduates of the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware. Mr. Waddell and family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is prominent in the Masonic fraternity.

MICHAEL WADDELL, a prominent citizen of Marion, is secretary of the Home Building, Savings & Loan Company of this city, and is identified with business and social organizations of various kinds. Mr. Wadde1 was born in Richland township,, Marion County, Ohio, May 2, 1853, and is a son of Samuel Waddell, formerly a well-known agriculturist.

Mr. Waddell passed his boyhood and school days on his father's farm and later spent some eight years as teacher in Marion County. For a number of years he carried on farming, but in 1887 he came to Marion, where he engaged in an insurance business, with which he is still identified, being the senior partner in the firm of Waddell & Knapp, with business location at No. 123 1/2 East Center street. In 1893 Mr. Waddell was elected clerk of the courts, on the Democratic ticket, and was honored with reelection in 1896. In 1898, when the Home Building, Savings & Loan Company was organized, he became a director, and in March 1900, he became its secretary. The unparalleled success of this Organization since then must, in large measure, be credited to Mr. Waddell's energy and excellent business management. Its gross assets have increased, in this period, from $65,000 to $400,000. He gives a large part of his time to furthering the interests of this enterprise, one in which Marion takes much pride.

Mr. Waddell was married (first), in 1879, to Mary E. Rupp, who died in May, 1886, leaving two children, Earl and Bessie I., the latter of whom is a popular teacher in the Marion public schools. In October, 1887, Mr. Waddel was married (second) to Nettle A. Redd, and they have three children-Roy H., Helen C. and Donna L. Mr. Waddell and family belong to the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Marion Board of Education ; is president of the board of trustees of the Children's Home; is secretary of the board of trustees of the Old Ladies' Home; and is a member of the board of trustees of the Marion Public Library. Fraternally, he belongs to all the Masonic bodies at Marion, and to the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine at Columbus, and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias. His interests are wide and varied and he leads a busy and useful life. He is honored and esteemed by his fellow-citizens.

JESSE B. WALKER, who has been engaged in conducting a blacksmith and repair shop at Green Camp since November, 1877, was born in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio, about one mile southeast of Green Camp, March 1, 1854, and is a son of Nelson and Emily M. (Brinker) Walker.

Nelson Walker was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, January 2 , 1820, and is a son of Jesse Walker, a native of Scotland, who came to America when a young man and fought in the War of 1812. Jesse Walker first located in Maryland, and later came to Pickaway County, Ohio. About 1830 he came to Marion County, and entered 100 acres of land in Green Camp township. Nelson Walker was about 10 years old when he came with his father to, Marion County. He married Emily M. Brinker who came from Pennsylvania to Marion County, Ohio, with her parents, George and Sarah Brinker. Five children were born to Nelson Walker and his wife: Jesse B.; George 0., who died aged 24 years; Noel C., of Detroit, Michigan; Reason M., of Marion; Nelson B., of Beeville, Bee County, Texas; and Zoa May, who married Martin J. Critchett, of Delaware County, Ohio. After his marriage, Nelson Walker operated a farm in Pleasant township for many years and here Mrs. Walker died April 17, 1876. Mr. Walker subsequently married Sarah Ball, of LaRue, who is now deceased. Mr. Walker died at LaRue, where he had lived for some time after he retired from farm labor.

Jesse B. Walker was reared on his father's farm in Pleasant township and at the age of 21 went to Delaware where he learned the blacksmith's trade from Levan Miller. He came to Green Camp in November, 1877, and opened a blacksmith shop. He has since continued in this business, having had three different locations in the village during the last 29 years. He purchased from his father a fine residence property, and has one of the nicest homes in Green Camp. Besides attending to his shop, Mr. Walker is agent for D. W. Howard, the undertaker.

Mr. Walker was married December 31, 1877, to Ruth E. Berry, a daughter of Thomas and Margaret Berry. She died August 22, 1878. On May 16, 1880, he was married to Laura A. Bradshaw, a daughter of R. R. Bradshaw. They have two children: Dessie G., who married Harry A. Williams, of Marion, and has two children-Ralph Walker and Donald Edward; and Zella Flossie, who married David B. Fletcher, of Green Camp, and one child, Fred Walker.

Mr. Walker has served two terms as township treasurer. He is a member of Green Camp Lodge, No. 644, 1. 0. 0. F., and of Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. & A. M.

GEORGE W. WALTERS, who is engaged in general farming and stock raising in Grand Prairie township, where he owns 986 acres of valuable farm land, was born October 10, 1842, in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Louis and Margaret Walters, both of whom died when George W., was very young.

Mr. Walters was reared from the time he was four old by Philip Retterer, of Grand Prairie township, and he received his education in the district school known then as the Dawson school, but now as the George W. Hill school. Mr. Walters has always been engaged in general farming and makes a specialty of stockraising. He is one of the largest land-owners in the township. His home is located in section 21.

Mr. Walters was married in 1866 to Lucretia Shoots, who is a daughter of the late Landry Shoots, and they have reared five children, as follows: Eva Ione, educated at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware and an accomplished musician, who is the wife of S. E. Bretz (a veterinary surgeon and undertaker, at Nevada, Wyandot County), and the mother of one child, Rowena; Marietta, educated at Ohio Normal University at Ada and the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, who is teaching school at Marion; Eleanor Lucretia, who also took a course of study at the Ohio Wesleyan University at. Delaware and was for some time a teacher in the Grand Prairie township schools; Charlotte Ann, living at home, who also attended the Ohio Weslayan University, and Rowena Margaret, who died aged 19 years.

Mr. Walters, who is a Republican in polltics, has served his township in various offices, having been township trustee for several terms. He was a member of the Marlon County Agricultural Society for 12 years, and is now a trustee of the Children's Home at Marion. He is a member and a trustee of the Free Baptist Church at Brush Ridge.

MARTIN VAN BUREN WALTON, a highly respected citizen and prosperous farmer of Scott township, was born August 19, 1836, in Scott township, just north of Letimberville, and was less than a year old when he came to his present farm with his parents, David and Louisa (Winchell) Walton.

Upon coming to Marion County, Ohio, from his native State, Pennsylvania, David Walton settled in Scott township, soon afterward purchasing a tract of 200 acres, now included in our subject's farm, on which he resided until his death. He operated a still house for about five years before coming to Marlon County, in partnership with his brother-in-law, Thomas Johnson. He had four sisters who came with him to this county: Martha, who is. married Thomas Johnson; Mary, who married John Roberts; Laura who married Benjamin Warner; and Mrs. Jane McCulley David Walton married Louisa Winchell, who was born in New York State, and they bad the following children: Oliver Perry, deceased; George; Benjamin; James, who resides in the State of Washington ; Warner, deceased; Mrs. Lavina Robinson, who resides in Putnam County, Ohio; Mary, deceased; Mrs. Martha Kennedy, of Marion; Annie, deceased, who was the wife of Edward Monnett; Martin Van Buren; and one that died in infancy unnamed.

Martin Van Buren Walton helped his father clear the land and was 14 years old when his father died, after which the burden of the work fell upon him. He has always followed farming, has effected all the improvements on the farm, including the house and barns. When his father first came to the farm, he built a double, hewed-log house and was still residing in this at the time of his death. Mr. Walton rents a part of his land to his son James.

Mr. Walton was married December 27, 1856, to Catherine Miller, who was born in Marion County, east of Waldo, November 2, 1836, and was a daughter of Jacob and Charity (Johnson) Miller. Mrs. Walton died February .3, 1907. Four children were born to them, as follows: Ida, who married George Neal, of Letimberville, and has 10 children- Mrs. Orpha Reeder (who has five children), Roy (who is married and has one child), Kizey (who married John Miller and has one child), Martin, Otto (who is married and has two children), Mrs. Ethel Jones (who, has one child), Burt, Howard, Hazel and Nellie; James residing on the borne farm, who married Mrs. Hattie Foos; Ora, who lives at Bucyrus, Ohio; and Merte, who married Harvey Kennedy and has six children-Vere, Fred, Warren. Ella, James and Walter.

Politically, Mr. Walton is a Democrat in national politics, but is independent locally. He has served his township in various offices; he was constable for many years, trustee for 19 years, and ditch trustee and supervisor for many years. Mr. Walton is a liberal supporter and an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he has been connected for the past 49 years; he has been superintendent. of the Sunday school for 30 years. He has missed attending service just one Sunday each year when he and his wife visited her relatives. Mrs. Walton, who was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for 50 years, and a teacher in the Sunday school for 48 years, was a fine Christian woman. She taught in the Sunday school until within two years of her death, when she became a helpless invalid by reason of a stroke of paralysis. Mr. Walton has been a member of the Grange for four years,

BENJAMIN F. WAPLES, cashier of The Marion Savings Bank, has been identified with the business interests of this city and section for more than a quarter of a century. Mr. Waples was born October 18, 1852, in Wyandot County, Ohio, where his father, Eli Waples, was an old settler.

After completing his education in the public schools, Mr. Waples taught during one year, at LaRue, Ohio, and then went to clerking in business houses at that place, first with Hopkins & Leonard, and later with Lucas & Seffner. It was something in the light of chance that first brought Mr. Waples to Marion. In 1879 H. S. Lucas embarked in a dry goods business at Marion and secured the services of Mr. Waples. The latter soon made himself a well-known and popular citizen and in 1883 he was elected county auditor.

Mr. Waples became interested in the growing industries of his section and when the Malleable Iron Company was organized, he was made superintendent and superintended the construction of the concern's buildings. He continued as superintendent for three years. In 1889 he became identified with the interests of The Norris & Christian Lime & Stone Company, and remained with this large corporation for a period of 15. In 1904, when The Marion Savings Bank was organized, Mr. Waples became its cashier and since that time has devoted his energies almost exclusively to banking. For some time he has been a member of the Board of Public Service and at all times has proved himself a public spirited, useful citizen.

On October 21, 1874, Mr. Waples was united in marriage with Maud A. Delong, who is a daughter of the late Dr. H. P. Delong. They have one daughter, Carrie M., who married S. A. Raub, of LaRue, Ohio.

FRANCIS MARION WARNER, a substantial and highly respected citizen of Marion township, residing on his well-improved farm of 133 acres, was born January 15, 1853, in Leesburg township, Union County, Ohio, and is a son of John and Margaret Jane (Chenoweth) Warner and a grandson of Isaac Warner.

John Warner was born in Harrison County, Ohio, where he was reared and where on October 8, 1835, he was married to Margaret Jane Chenoweth. The year following his marriage, he moved to Union County, where he lived until the fall of 1862, when he removed to Stark County, Indiana, where he purchased a farm. He never lived on this farm as he moved upon a farm of a sister, whose sons had enlisted in the army. At the close of the war in 1865, after the return of his sister's sons from the war, he returned to Union County, Ohio. In the fall of 1870 he sold his Indiana farm and moved to Kansas, where he bought a farm in Brown County, on which he lived until the time of his death, which occurred February 7, 1874. After his death his widow sold the farm and went to live with her son William in Kiowa County, Kansas.

Francis M. Wamer, our subject, was the youngest of a family of eight children, his twin having died when about three weeks old. He was practically reared in Union County. Ohio, and was 17 years old when his parents moved to Brown County, Kansas, and located on a farm. Here he continued to live until 1875, when he removed to Sumner County, Kansas and engaged in freighting goods to the Indians for the United States government in winter and in conducting a farm and cattle ranch in summer. In 1881 he returned with his family to Union County, Ohio, where he lived about two years, after which he moved to Wyandot County and worked by the month for three years. He then came to Marion County in the spring of 1887 and rented farms for the next 14 years, in 1902 purchasing his present farm where he has since been engaged in general farming, stock-raising and operating a dairy, having 44 head of cows and running one milk wagon.

Mr. Warner was married January 29, 1874, to Florence Miles, a daughter of Fielding F;. and Penelope R. (Straw) Miles. Four chilclren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Warner, namely: Alfaretta; Francis M., Jr., residing on his father's farm, who married Millie Styer and has two children--William Marion and Dorothy; Florence May, a graduate of the Ohio Northern University at Ada, who married Willis G. Patterson, an attorney, of Wooster, Ohio; and Fred W., a graduate of the Northern University at Ada, who is a a practicing attorney of Marion.

FRED W. WARNER, attorney-at-law, at Marion, was born in 1882 in Union County, Ohio. His father, Francis Marion Warner, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work, is a prominent farmer and dairyman of Marion township.

When Fred W. Warner was four years of age, his parents removed from Union to Marion County and he was reared near this city. He completed his education at the Ohio Northern University at Ada, where he was graduated in law in 1904. On January 2, 1905, he formed a partnership with Fred L. Carhart, under the firm name of Carhart & Warner, and they continued in practice until August, 1906, when Mr. Carhart became deputy clerk of the courts of Marion County. Since then, Mr. Warner has been practicing alone and has most creditably handled a number of important cases of litigation.

On November 7, 1906, Mr. Warner was united in marriage with Edith Grace Lockwood who is a daughter of Dewitt Lockwood, of Chillicothe, Ohio.

Mr. Warner is a representative citizen, taking a commendable interest in public matters and political affairs and is most favorably considered by Both the bar and the public. He is a Royal Arch Mason and Knight of Pytllias.

GEORGE WASHBURN, a well-known citizen and prosperous farmer of Big Island township, residing on his farm of 154 acres situated in section 4, was born August 15, 1852, in Salt Rock township, Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Darius and Susan (Green) Washburn.

Darius Washburn was born near Waldo, Marion County, Ohio, and was reared and educated at Marion. He engaged in agricultural pursuits in this county until his death, which occurred in the fall of 1873. He married three times, (first) to Susan Green, who died in 1861. She was a native of Marion County, and a daughter of John Green, who was one of the early pioneers of Salt Rock township. They had four children: George; Arabella, deceased; Charles, residing at St. Louis, Mo.; and Amos, who died in infancy.

George Washburn grew to manhood on his father's farm in Salt Rock township. He has always been a general farmer and stock-raiser, making a specialty of growing corn and oats.After his marriage he lived for a period of 18 years on a farm in Salt Rock township, west of Morral, after which he lived for over five years in Grand Prairie township, and in 1901, bought his present place, moving here April 1, 1902.

Mr. Washburn was married March 12, 1879, to Anna E. Brady, who was born and reared in Big Island township and is a daughter of Porter and Lucy (Tuttle) Brady. Four children were born to this union: James A., born June 13, 1880, who married May Anthony and has one child, Helen Louise; Jessie Belle, who married Richard McAllister, of Marion and has one child, Mary Alice; Frank; and Clifford, who died aged nine months. Mr. Washburn is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, at Marion.

OZIAS WASHBURN, a prominent resident of Morral, and one of the largest land-owners of Salt Rock township, where he has 367 acres of valuable farm land in sections 15 and 16, was born September 23, 1852, in this township and is a son of Elias and Elizabeth (Morral ) Washburn.

Elias Washburn, the father of our subject was born in Waldo township, Marion County, Ohio, and was married to Elizabeth Morral, a daughter of Samuel Morral, who was one of the earliest settlers of this township. Mr. Morral was one of the best known men of Salt Rock township and was known all over the county as "Uncle Sammy." He was an auctioneer and was a large land-owner, owning a great deal the land where the town of Morral is now located. He died in Salt Rock township at the age of 76 years. Mr. and Mrs. Elias Washburn had five children, as follows: Ozias, the subject of'this sketch; John, of Morral; Sanford, who died in 1888, leaving widow and two children, now residents of Nebraska; Howard E., of Salt Rock township; and Rosanna, who married Dr. J. M. Cline, a dentist of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Washburn was killed by lightning on our subject's farm August 18, 1860. Mrs. Washburn died in 1888.

Ozias Washburn was reared and educated in Salt Rock township, and has always been engaged in following farming and stock-raising, feeding a great many sheep and cattle and raising a great many hogs. He was married November 19, 1891, to Kate Taylor, a daughter of Amos Taylor and they have two children: Mildred and Carl. Mr. Washburn resided on his farm until October, 1906, when he became a resident of Morral, but still continues to operate the farm. He is a stanch Republican and has served the township in various offices, having been treasurer, land appraiser, assessor, clerk of the School Board and for a number of years has been Clerk of the township, which office he continues to hold. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias.

CHRISTIAN WASSERBECK; JR., whose fine farm Of 52 3/4 acres is situated on the Mount Olive turnpike, in Green Camp township, four miles west of Green Camp, was born September 7, 1865, in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Christian and Christina (Benzler) Wasserbeck.

Christian Wasserbeck, who was born in Horrheim, Wuerttemberg, Germany, May 30, 1830, is one of the highly respected citizens and substantial farmers of Green Camp township. He worked on is father's farm until 1852, when he came to Marion, Ohio. While working on a farm in Waldo township, he married Christina Benzler, who was born September 14, 1835 in Horrheim, Wuerttemberg, Germany and was a daughter of Joseph and Catharina "Katie" (Angermeier) Benzler. John Benzler died in Germany and the mother of Mrs. Wasserbeck brought her family to Waldo township, Marion County, in 1848. Mr. Wasserbeck bought a farm of 40 acres in Waldo township, to which he added 15 acres; subsequently he sold all and bought 125 acres in Pleasant township. In 1878 he traded the last farm for 250 acres in Green Camp township, where he has resided ever since, now owning 414 acres. Christian Wasserbeck and wife had six children: Kate, who is the widow of Jacob Almendinger; Joseph, who lives in Union County; Jacob, who owns a farm in Bowling Green township; Christian, Jr.; Albert, who is engaged in farming in Oklahoma; and Emma, deceased, who was the wife of Walter Parrot. The family belong to the German Reformed Church.

Christian Wasserbeck, Jr., attended the district schools in his boyhood. He was 12 years old when his father moved to Green Camp township, and he has lived here ever since, purchasing his farm in 1900. The comfortable frame residence, of modern construction, was on the place at the time of purchase.

On January 31, 1900, Mr. Wasserbeck was married to Mrs. Flora May Ruth, the widow of Charles P. Ruth and a daughter of John and Emily Smith; she had three children by her first marriage, namely: Blanche Elma, Wilda Belle and Emma Dell. Mrs. Wasserbeck died August 10, 1906, leaving Mr. Wasserbeck one little daughter, Princess Lucille.

Mr. Wasserbeck has always been considered a first-class farmer. He raises a fine lot of good stock, including horses, cattle and hogs.

WATKIN WATKINS, who resides on his well-improved farm of 136 acres in Prospect township, was born November 2, 1837, in this township and is a son of Robert and Johanna (Parry) Watkins, and a grandson of Watkin Watkins, after whom he was named.

Watkin Watkins, who was a native of Wales, first settled at Baltimore, Maryland, upon coming to this country. In 1805, with his family, he removed to Radnor, Delaware County, Ohio, where he resided until his death. He was the father of six children, namely: Evan, Robert, Thomas, John, Mary Ann and Charlotte (who married W. Lawrence)-all now deceased.

Robert Watkins was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and was a child in years when his parents moved to Radnor, Ohio, in 1805. He was reared to manhood in Radnor and later married Johanna Parry, a native of Wales, who at the age of 11 years came to America with her parents, who settled at Radnor, Ohio,. Robert learned the carpenter's trade with his father and worked at that trade the greater part of his life. In 1836 he and his family removed to what is now the village of Prospect, Marion County, which was then known as Middletown and was within the boundaries of Delaware County. He first located in a two-story log house where Dr. George Masters now lives, and opened a tavern, which was the first opened in this locality. At that time the country was still wild and unsettled, with only a few houses, scattered here and there. He subsequently built a frame house where the hotel now stands and conducted the Watkins Hotel, the sign of which is still in the electric light plant of the village. He later built a brick hotel on the site, after moving the frame building back, and there conducted a hotel until his death, which occurred in October, 1853, after which his widow and children continued to run the hotel for many years. Robert and Johanna Watkins were the parents of seven children, namely: Elizabeth, who married John Wyatt; Sarah M.; Watkins; Robert; Thomas P.; and Walter and Johanna, deceased.

Watkin Watkins, our subject, was reared in Prospect and obtained his education in the Prospect schools. At the age of 15 years he started to learn the trade of a saddler, which he was obliged to give up after three years on account of his lungs He then began dealing in horses, in partnership with his two brothers and William Lewis, ex-sheriff of Delaware County. They bought, sold and shipped horses to Minnesota, Iowa and other points and during the Civil War did quite a business supplying the army with horses. Mr. Watkins has always lived in Prospect, but has traveled considerably. He has been to France four times and in 1868 spent four months in that country, also visiting England, Belgium, his; mother's birthplace in Wales and other countries, upon his return bringing with him 28 stallions.

Mr. Watkins was united in marriage with Eliza B. Patten, who was born in Marion, April 16, 1842, and is a daughter of Richard and Susan Gordon (Kennedy) Patten. Richard Patten was a son of William Patten, who settled in Marion County at a very early period, entering the farm now owned by our subject. Richard Patten and his wife were the parents of six children, namely: Harry Edward, Mary Ann and Richard Leroy, all deceased; Eliza Busby, the wife of our subject; and two children that died in infancy. Mr. Patten died in 1871 and his wife died 1869.

Richard L. Watkins, the only child of our subject and wife, married Jennie Knackel, a daughter of Manuel Knackel, and they have one child, Watkin Watkins, who is named after his grandfather, the subject of this sketch. Richard L. Watkins is associated with the Soyers Publishing Cornpany, an advertising company of New York. His wife and son live with his father, who resides in a large, 13-room brick house.

Mr. Watkins was appointed and served two years on the Board of Ohio Penitentiary Managers, during which term there were nine men executed. He is at present a member of the jury commission at Marion. Politically, he is a Republican and has always taken an active interest in the affairs of the county.

GEORGE I,OUIS WATTS, a successful agriculturist of Salt Rock township, whose well-improved farm of 135 acres is located in section 26, was born in Preble County, Ohio, September 8, 1846, and is a son of James and Nancy ( Price) Watts.

James Watts was engaged in the distilling business in Preble County, where he rented a distillery; he died of cholera in Missouri, where he had gone in search of a new location for his business. He left a family of seven children, as follows: Mary Ann, deceased, who was the wife of William Coler; John P., deceased; Jane who married John Whitcomb and resided in New Washington, Crawford County, Ohio, until her decease, March 10, 1907; Marjorie, v ho died in infancy; George Louis; Andrew, who died in infancy; and Patterson, who lives in Tully township, Marion County.

George L. Watts was a child of five years when his father died. Shortly after the father's death the family moved to Marion County, and here and in Crawford County the subject of this sketch was reared always living near the County line. In 1864 he enlisted in Company C, 197th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., to serve one year, havng been hired as a substitute from Bucyrus township, Crawford County. His service consisted of nothing but guard duty. He was first stationed at Washington, D. C.; later at Alexandria, Virginia, for one month; then at Dover, Delaware; from Dover being sent to Havre de Grace to guard a ferryboat, after which he returned to Baltimore, where he was mustered out, being finally discharged at Columbus, Ohio. He returned home to Marion County after the war and on June 2, 1870, was united in marriage with Martha Kennedv. a daughter of William Kennedy. Mrs. Watts died March 9, 1884, leaving seven children, of whom but four are living as follows: Effie, who died aged 24 years; Thomas Bert, who married May Overly, lives near Crestline and has four children; Oded F.., a salesman for the Pittsburg Casket & Fluid Company, residing in Cleveland, Ohio; Dessie, who married O. G. Briggs, manager of the Marion Building and Loan Company, and has two children; Nannie, who died aged 13 years; William, a resident of Cleveland, who is a salesman for a crockery company; and an infant that died unnamed a few clays after the death of the mottler. Mr. Watts was subsequently married to his wife's sister, Anzilla Kennedy, on June 21, 1885. To this union were born six children, namely: George K., who married Sadie Warner, lives in Morral and has one son; Marva, who died aged 12 months; Elva; Lester; Eldridge, deceased at the age of five months; and Margrette, who died at the age of five weeks.

After his first marriage, Mr. Watts moved to Crawford County, where he owned a farm of 80 acres, which he operated until 1898 when he bought and moved upon his present farm of 136 acres, where he has since resided, engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He is recognized as one of the leading, substantial farmers of the township. Mr. Watts is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and has been superintendent of the Sunday-school for the past eight years. A view of his residence accompanies this sketch.

DANA OLIVER WEEKS, M. D., only son of the late Dr. Oliver W.Weeks, has been engaged in the practice of medicine in Marion for the past 15 years. He was born in Caledonia, Marion County, Ohio, December 16, 1866, and, after attending the common schools in his native county, took a literary college course at the University of Wooster, in 1887, 1888 and 1889. He then matriculated at Starling Medical College, Columbus, from which he was graduated in 1892, at once entering upon a practice at Marion with his late father. In 1901 he took a post-graduate course at the Chicago Post-Graduate School and Hospital. He is past president of the Marion Medical Society and a member of the Marion County Medical Society, Ohio State Medical Society and American Medical Association. He is medical examiner for the following life insurance companies: Northwestern Mutual, of Milwaukee; Metropolitan, of New York; Massachusetts Mutual, Pacific Mutual, Penn Mutual, Aetna, National Trustee and American Insurance Union; and is the medical adjuster for the United States Health and Accident Insurance Company, of Saginaw, Michigan, and the General Accident Insurance Company, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Dana C. Weeks married Gertrude Douglas, the accomplished daughter of James J. Douglas. This union was blessed with two children, namely: Oliver Douglas, aged 10 years; and Frank Dana, aged three. Dr. Weeks is a member of Marion Lodge, No. 402, Knights of Pythias; Marion Lodge, No. 32, B. P. O. E.; Sons of Veterans and the Marion Commercial Club. He is a Republican in politics and with his wife affiliates with the First Presbyterian Church of Marion, in which he is a deacon. Mrs. Weeks is a member of the oldest ladies' club in Marion, known as the "Twigs." Dr. Weeks' residence and office is at No. 425 West Center street.

OLIVER W. WEEKS, M. S., M. D., deceased, ormerly one of the leading physicians and surgeons as well as esteemed and respected citizens of Marion, was born May 22, 1841, in Delaware County, Ohio, and was a son of Samuel C. and Jane (Cunningham) Weeks.

The father of Dr. Weeks was a native of Maryland and the mother, of Pennsylvania. In 1830 they came to Ohio and lived in Licking County until 1838, when they removed to Delaware County, and in 1867 retired to Caledonia, Marion County, where both died. They had seven children.

Oliver W. Weeks received only ordinary school advantages, but when he was but 16 years of age he secured a teacher's certificate and engaged in teaching school. The outbreak of the Civil War found him ready to offer his services to his country, and in the second year of its progress, on August 13, I862, he enlisted in Company A, 121st Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., in time to participate in the battle of Perryville, where he was severely wounded. Illness from exposure also followed and it is doubtful whether he ever recovered normal health, although many years of extreme usefulness were left him. After a long period in several hospitals, he was made chief clerk in the medical director's office at Columbus, where he remained until his honorable discharge on January 19, 1864.

As early as 1861 our subject became interested in medicine and after his discharge from the army he located at Richwood and engaged in a drug business, having already taken a course of lectures at Starling Medical College, Columbus, and after taking a second course was graduated at Cincinnati in 1865. Subsequently he received the ad eundem degree of medicine and surgery from Columbus Medical College, on February 29, 1876. In June, 1865, he was graduated by the Medical and Scientific Society and in 1872 received the honorary degree of Master of Sciences from Bethany College, West Virginia. On November 22, 1866, he was appointed assistant assessor of District No. 12, of the Eighth Internal Revenue Collection District of Ohio.

In 1878 Dr. Weeks came to Marion, having previously practiced in Delaware County and at Caledonia, Marion County, and up to the time of his death continued active in his profession. He was president of the Marion County Medical Society and was considered an authority on many special diseases. He was a member of the Ohio State Medical Society, as well as of the American Medical Association. He was a member of the Pan-American Medical Congress in 1893. He was also a public-spirited citizen and took much interest in the establishment of good government and the advancement of civic importance. He served as a useful member of the City Council of Marion for several years. He was a stanch Republican. In the First Christian Church of Marion, of which he was a member, he was a good worker.

On September 4, 1865, Dr. Weeks was married, at Tiffin, Ohio, to Flora S. Dana, daughter of the late Dr. Marcus Dana. Mrs. Weeks survives and makes her home at No. 411 West Center street.

The late Dr. Weeks was prominent in several fraternal orders. As a Mason, he was a member of blue lodge, chapter and commandery; he was also a member of the Knights of Pythias, Royal Arcanum and Grand Army of the Republic. He was medical director for the medical department of the Grand Army of the Republic, as well as surgeon general of the Department of Ohio, G. A. R. He was responsible for the erection of the Soldiers' Memorial Chapel in the Marion Cemetery. He served as surgeon of the Fifth Regiment, Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias. He was past medical director, past brigadier surgeon and past surgeon general of the Uniform Rank Knights of Pythias. The Masonic lodge at Caledonia was named after him. He was at one time a member of the board of examiners for applicants at West Point Military Academy and Annapolis Naval Academy from the 8th and 13th congressional districts. During Harrison's, McKinley's, Roosevelt's and part of Cleveland's administrations he was a. member of the Board' of Examining Surgeons for Pensions. Dr. Weeks died at his home in Marion, January 11, 1903, aged 61 years.

Dr. Weeks was a man of upright character and in military, civic, business and professional life he was an ideal representative of good citizenship and the highest type of American manliness.

WILLIAM JOHN WEIR, a prominent farmer, large land-owner and extensive stock-raiser of Scott township, was born on his present farm September 23, 1861, and is a son of Samuel and Mary (Mason) Weir and a grandson of Samuel and Nancy Weir.

Samuel Weir, father of our subject, was born in 1827 in County Donegal, Ireland. At the age of 20 years, when he came to America, he had saved $175 by working for $15 a month. He was located in Philadelphia several years before coming to Caledonia, Marion County, Ohio, in 1857, at which time he had $91, some of his earnings at Philadelphia having been sent to his widowed mother in Ireland, so that she and the other members of the family could come to this country. He was a farmer by occupation and when he came to Marion County he first worked on the farm that our subject now owns. By hard work and good business management he was enabled, in 1866, to purchase the farm, which consisted of 100 acres, at $55 per acre. On this property he subsequently erected a house costing $2,000. At the time of his death, December 3, 1893, at the age of 71 years, he was the owner of 220 acres of land. He was married June 13, 1861, to Mary Mason, who was born in Scott township within half a mile of where our subject resides, and was a daughter of Joseph and Sarah Mason. They were the parents of but one child, William John Weir, the subject of this sketch.

William John Weir was reared and has always lived in Scott township. He obtained his education in the schools of this township and took charge of the farm some time previous to his father's death. He is one of the most successful farmers and stock-raisers of the county, and owns and operates about 600 acres of land in Scott township. Mr. Weir is also prominently identified with various other business enterprises of the county. He is vice-president and a director of the Farmers' Savings Bank of Caledonia, and is a stockholder in the City National Bank of Marion; The Fairbanks Steam Shovel Company of Marion and The Union Portland Cement Company located at Rushsylvania, Ohio. He was a stockholder and also a director for three years after its organization, of the Marion Lime & Stone Company. He is a Democrat in politics and served one term as township trustee; he was a member of the School Board for 10 years and is now president of that body. he is at present road commissioner, in charge of the construction of the Letimberville and Caledonia turnpikes. Religiously he is a member' of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Weir was married July 17, 1884, to Louise L. Wish, a native of Missouri, and a daughter of John and Mary Wish. Five children were born to this union: Charles E., who died at the age of two years and six months; Marion Oscar, deceased at the age of six months; Loren E., now attending school; Mary E. and Ethel G. Mrs. Weir died September 17, 1895, and is buried at the Caledonia Cemetery.

REDDEN SMITH WEISEL. an extensive lumber dealer of the village of Prospect, is one of the oldest lumbermen of the county having been engaged in the business for 37 years past. He was born September 9, 1849, in New Jersey and has been a resident of this county since a child of two years, when he came here with his parents, Joseph and Mary (Smith) Weisel.

Joseph Weisel was a native of Pennsylvania and a cooper by trade. Before coming to Ohio he worked at his trade all through the State of Pennsylvania, making tight barrels. Later on, when a resident of the Buckeye State, he made shingles, shaving them out of oak. He became blind just previous to his death, which occurred July 4, 1897, at the age of 80 years. His wife, Mary Smith, who was of Pennsylvania German descent, died April 14, 1860, aged 40 years. To them were born seven children, as follows: Elias, deceased; Tobias; Redden Smith; Mary, who married J. M. Greek; Sophia, who married William Howison and after his death became the wife of William Lust; Isabel, who married Noah Gast, a merchant at Prospect; and Thomas, deceased.

Redden S. Weisel was about two years old when his parents moved from New Jersey to Ohio in a one-horse wagon and still has the little chair in which he sat during the trip. His father settled on a 25-acre tract of land in Prospect township, about two miles west of Prospect. This land was covered with timber and was very swampy on it there was an old sawmill, run by a Mr. Finley, from whom lumber was secured to erect a plank house, which is still standing. They cleared this land and made a productive farm out of it. Mr. Weisel's mother died on this farm and he, his father arid brother Tobias kept house for three years subsequent to her death, when his father sold the farm and moved to Prospect, where he worked at his trade for the remainder of his

life. Mr. Weisel experienced many hardships during his boyhood days, especially after the death of his mother when he had to shift for himself often finding it very rough sailing. His education was obtained during the winter months when not engaged in farm work. In 1870 he engaged in the lumber business with Henry M. Barnhardt, founder of the Marion Steam Shovel Works, who then ran a sawmill north of Prospect, equipped with one muley-saw. In the fall of 1871 Mr. Weisel bought his partner's interest and continued to conduct the business alone until 1877. In the meantime, in 18,74, he and John DeTurk bought a circular sawmill in Green Camp township

which they operated in connection with a cidermill and tile-yard that they also owned. In 1879 they dissolved partnership, Mr. Weisel retaining the sawmill, which he has since continued to operate, and which he moved to Prospect in 1880. Mr. Weisel purchased his present residence property on Water street in 1881 and the following year erected a fine, large, 10-room frame house. He also owns other residence property in the village.

Mr. Weisel was married February 15, 1877, to Martha Petty, who died April 27, 1895. Our subject is a Democrat in politics, and is at present township trustee. He was a member of the Village Council for a period of seven years and also filled the office of township trustee back in the '90's. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and fraternally, is a member of Prospect Lodge, No. 483, 1. 0. 0. F., and also of the Encampment of the same order.

WALTER J. WEISER, M. D., who has been successfully practicing his profession at Claridon for the past 12 years, was born near Norton, Ohio, September 6, 1870, and is a son of George and Rosa (Howald) Weiser.

George Weiser was born in Delaware County, Ohio, where he followed farming for many years. He was a son of Jabez Weiser, also a farmer, who came from Pennsylvania at an early period and located in Delaware County. George Weiser married Rosa Howald, a native of Switzerland, who came to America with her parents when about three or four years of age. Her parents first settled in Lickin, County, Ohio. but subsequently moved to Delaware County. Mr. and Mrs. George Weiser had seven children: Walter: John, living on the old home place; Clement G., who lives one mile east of Norton; Mamie, who married Dr. L. B. Simpson, of Radnor; Della, who died in childhood; and William Wesley and Lettie, who live at home. The late George Weiser was a Democrat and held various township offices. His widow is still living at her home near Norton.

Walter J. Weiser was reared in Delaware County, and received his early education in the district schools of that county, later attending the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware for three years, after which he taught school for two years, at the same time studying medicine. He then entered the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical Institute, from which, after pursuing a three-years' course, he was graduated June 6, 1894. He immediately thereafter located at Claridon and embarked in the practice of his profession, in which he has met with abundant success. he at first had competition but has none now.

Dr. Weiser was married November :2, 1899, to Lillian D. Baird, who was born near Caledonia and is a daughter of William and Ellen (Christie) Baird, who live in Claridon township. One child has been born to Dr. and Mrs. Weiser-Marjorie Lucille. Dr. Weiser is a Republican in politics. He is a member of Calanthe Lodge, No. 116, K. of P., at Caledonia. and of the Marion County Medical Society. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

WILLIAM M. WILLIAMS, vice-president and general manager of the Adelaide Brick & Tile Company, of Claridon, was born at Radnor, Delaware County, Ohio, September 20, 1869. He is a son of David L. and Margaret (Griffith) Williams, and a grandson of Benjamin Williams, who was a native of Wales.

David L. Williams was born in Delaware County, Ohio, and until the outbreak of the war was engaged in the grocery business at Radnor. He served throughout the entire war and was in many of the important battles fought in Tennessee and that section of the country. At the close of the war he returned to Ohio, making Columbus his headquarters for a short time, after which he returned to Radnor and from there came to Claridon to regulate the old Lautterette tile-mill, and for some time was engaged here in the manufacturing of tile and brick. He married Margaret Griffith, who was also a native of Delaware County, Ohio. She died at Radnor in 1872.

William M. Williams was four years old when his father moved to Claridon and here he was reared and educated. He worked on a. farm until his connection with the Adelaide Brick & Tile Company began. He started in when a boy with the salary of $2 a month, and grew up in the business, the success of which has been due to his efforts. He is now vice-president and general manager of the company; the other officers of the company are: C. H. Beringer, president; and C. E. Miller, secretary and treasurer. They burn about 20 kilns a season, the product from which kilns is sold for about $6,000 and is used in this locality. The erection of the old Lautterette the mill was commenced in 1876; it was conducted by J. F. Ullom until 1897, when the present owners, the Adelaide Brick & Tile Company, acquired it.

Mr. Williams was married May 3, 1900, to Florence E. Irey, a native of Claridon township and a daughter of Harrison H. Irey, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. three children have been born to our subject and his wife: William Lorin, born May 4, 1901, who died September 2, 1902, aged 16 months; Irey E., born October 31, 1903; and Margaret L., born April 12, 1906. Mr. Williams has three brothers and two sisters still living.

Mr. Williams is a Democrat in politics. Socially, he is a member of Calanthe Lodge, K. of P., and Oliver Lodge, No. 447, F. & A. M., both of Caledonia.

B. E. WILSON, an enterprising and progressive young business men of Marion, secretary and treasurer of The McMurray Sulky Company, at Marion, was born in this city in 1878, and is a member of one of the oldest families of this section of Ohio.

Amos C. Wilson, grandfather of B. E. Wilson, came to this section with Eber Baker, in Indian days, and built and operated the first mill in these parts. Amos H. Wilson, the father of B. E. Wilson, was born in Marion County, and engaged in farming for a number of years. He still survives and lives in a comfortable home on Cherry street, Marion.

After completing his education, B. E. Wilson engaged in teaching in the county schools for five years, and taught for one year in the Marion Business College. In 1904 he accepted the position of bookkeeper and stenographer with The McMurray Sulky Company, and since March, 1906, has been secretary and treasurer of this organization. He has also acquired a large amount of stock and is one of the directors of the comapny. His standing in business circles is high.

In 1903 Mr. Wilson was married to Maud Tea, who is a daughter of the late Marks H. and Alice (Hoover) Tea. Mr. Wilson belongs to the Masons and the Modern Woodmen of America.

FRANK WILSON, residing on his well-improved and highly cultivated farm of 80 acres in Green Camp township, is one of the leading agriculturists of the township. He was born April 1, 1870, in Clark County, Ohio, and is a son of Joseph VanZona and Eliza Ann (Hansbrough) Wilson.

Joseph V. Wilson was born and reared in Clark County and his wife was a native of Virginia. Mr. Wilson moved to Marion County about 1871 and for many years was head sawyer in different mills in this section and resided on the farm where Israel Irey now resides. Later he moved to Agosta, where he lived until his death, which occurred March 1, 1882. His widow is still living and a resident of Marion. Eight children were born to Joseph V. and Eliza Wilson, namely: Mrs. Elizabeth Danner, of Marion; Josephine, who married George W. Bailey and died March 5, 1883; Derostus F., of De Cliff; Charles F., Agosta; Edwin S. of Marion; Georgianna, who married Charles Moore, of Champaign, Illinois; John V., of Marion; and Frank, the subject of this sketch.

Frank Wilson was reared in the vicinity of Agosta and obtained his education. in the district schools. Subsequently to leaving school, he began teaching in the district schools of the county and continued in this vocation for a period of 10 years, during which time he taught schools in Big Island, Montgomery, Bowling Green and Green Camp townships. In the spring of 1892 he located on his present farm where he resided until 1901 when he removed to Agosta for three years, returning to the farm in 1904. Mr. Wilson is a member of the school Board of Green Camp township, having been appointed to fill the vacancy caused by the death of David LaRue, which occurred in the spring of 1905.

Mr. Wilson was united in marriage December 15, 1889, to Ida E. Imbody, a daughter of Wilson Imbody, ex-commissioner of Marion County. Two children bless their union: VanZona; and Gladys May.

JOHN V. WILSON, junior member of the prominent real estate and insurance firm of Jones & Wilson, at Marion, was born in 1867 in Clark County, Ohio, and is a son of the late Joseph V. Wilson.

John V. Wilson was five years of age when his parents moved to Marion County, where he was reared and enjoyed good educational advantages. For about 12 years he taught school in various parts of Marion County, making many friends in the different localities, who continued such when, in 1896. he went into the real estate and insurance business at Marion, in partnership with W T. Jones. This firm has prospered from the first, a division of work being made, by which Mr. Wilson looks after the fire insurance department and Mr. Jones after the life and accident. They are agents for a number of the leading companies of the country and carry many risks. The firm also does an extensive real estate business, having platted the Perry, Jones & Wilson Addition and at present are engaged with the Jones & Wilson Addition. They deal exclusively in city property and have erected a number of handsome residences on their land. Although often solicited, the firm handles only firm or individual property, doing no commission business. Mr. Wilson is interested in several other business enterprises, and is a member of the present City Council.

In 1899 Mr. Wilson was married to Elizabeth Jacoby, daughter of John Jacoby, and they have three children: Jay, Harry and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a steward. Fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias.

RICHARD WILSON, deceased, was born in Watsontown, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, November 14, 1804. He learned the trade of a chairmaker and came to Marion in 1828, where he was for a time employed in a chair factory and then clerked in a store. From 1833 to 1851 he was county treasurer. While in this office his generosity led him to pay the taxes of many a poor man and it is said that no one was sold out for taxes during his terms of office. He was a representative in the Lower House of the State Legislature in 1858 and 1859 and from 1866 to 1871 was county auditor. After retiring from the latter office, he was frequently elected assessor of Marion township. He built the track for the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad in the early 50's and in the operation lost a fortune.

Mr. Wilson was a prominent Mason. He died February 11, 1882, in his 78th year and at his request the burial service was conducted by the local blue lodge, with the Knights Templar as an escort.

Mr. Wilson married Sophronia Parrish. Mrs. F. R. Saiter of Marion is their daughter.

One son lost his life in the War of the Rebellion. Another son, Byron, entered' the United States Navy in his youth and at the time of his death, September 6, 1893, held the rank of captain, being third on the list.

FREDERICK WINCH, one of the highly respected citizens, Civil War veterans and successful farmers of Tully township, resides on his well improved farm of 150 acres of finely-cultivated land. Mr. Winch was born December 14, 1833, in Wetzler, Prussia, Germany, and is a son of Philip and Margaretta (Keiner) Winch.

The mother of Mr. Winch died in Germany. In 1854 the father with his family came to America and settled in Tully township, Marion County, Ohio, where he purchased a farm of 20 acres. At a later date he sold this property and removed to an 80-acre farm near Upper Sandusky, where he lived a few years and then went to Sioux County, Iowa, where he resided until his death, at the age of 88 years. Prior to emigrating from his native land, he had served as agent of a steamship company which was interested in sending emigrants to other countries. His first marriage was to Margaretta Keiner, who died aged 45 years; his second marriage was to Christina Weis. The children born to the first union were the following: Conrad, who died in Texas; Henrietta, who married John Sames and died at Galion, Ohio; two infants a daughter and son, who died unnamed; Frederick; Mrs. Katrina Fey, deceased; William, residing in Iowa; Mrs. Wilhelmina Walke, residing in Iowa; and Charles and Aaron, deceased.

Frederick Winch was 20 years of age when he accompanied his father to America. His

first employer was a Mr. Spiece, with whom he remained for five years. Later he worked for a short time for William Conier. In the, fall of 1860, following his marriage, he located on a farm of 40 acres in Tully township that he had acquired, which was the nucleus of the fine property which he owns and occupies at the present time. The land was so heavily timbered when he took possession that it was necessary for him to make a small clearing before he could erect his house, which was a log structure, 18 by 24 feet in dimensions. Mr. Winch had completed his comfortable little cabin and had dug a well, and had made plans. for the rapid clearing of the remainder of his land, when he was called into the service of the Union.

Mr. Winch enlisted October 12, 1862, at Camp Mansfield, in Company I, 64th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was honorably discharged August 15, 1863. During this period he was on duty every day with the exception of two, his service being in Kentucky and Tennessee. He was neither taken prisoner nor wounded but his ears were injured by the kick of the guns then used. In his case, having a bad cold at the time, the concussion affected the distended drum of the ear to such an extent that it broke.

During his absence, his brave young wife had lived alone in the cabin, attending to the necessary farm work as best she could. She later proved most helpful to him and Mr. Winch attributes much of his success to her industry, frugality and excellent management. He kept yearly adding to his land until he owned 155 acres, five of which are now owned by one of his sons. While clearing his land and rapidly putting it under cultivation, Mr. Winch kept on making improvements. He set out an orchard which is in a flourishing condition, and later built the fine modern home and the substantial barn and other farm structures.

Mr. Winch was married September 14, 1860, to Mary Crissinger, who was born in an old house standing across the road north of the present Winch home, and is a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Plotner) Crissinger. Mr. and Mrs. Winch have had six sons and two daughters, namely: Henry, residing on the home farm, who married Mary Stoltz and has one son, Clyde Frederick; John, residing at Marion, who married Amanda Nase and has two daughters-Mamie and Bertha; Daniel, residing in Crawford County, who married Amanda Stoltz and has three children-Edna, Ralph and Zola; James, deceased, who married Dora Glathart-their two children are also deceased; Charles, who married Cora Fitch and has one daughter, Jessie; Richard, residing on the home farm, who married Iva Dickson; Matilda, who married (first) Preston Churchill, and has one daughter, Blanche, and married (second) Charles Dycen-they have one daughter, Mary Ellen; and Henrietta, who married William Kurtz, resides at Martel and has one daughter, Mildred.

Mr. Winch has always been identified with the Democratic party, but reserves the right to cast his vote locally for the candidate he deems best qualified for the office. For six years Mr. Winch served as a trustee of Tully township, performing the duties with the greatest faithfulness. He is a member of the Reformed Church.

WILLIAM BENTON WITHROW, one of the leading farmers and a prominent citizen of Green Camp township, where he owns a fine farm of 248 acres, partly in Green Camp and partly in Bowling Green townships, was born in Knox County, Ohio, December 3, 1863, and is a son of John W. and Elizabeth (Roof) Withrow.

The parents of Mr. Withrow moved to Marion County when he was a babe of nine months, and settled on a farm in Green Camp township. At that time this whole fertile section of country was nothing but a wilderness and it required great imagination to foresee its present fruitful condition. There were but few roads cut in the whole township and none approached this farm. As William Benton grew up, he assisted his father in clearing the land and from earliest boyhood recalls the hardships and experiences of pioneer life. The family lived at first in an old log house. John W. Withrow made many improvements on this farm before he died, March 5, 1888: his widow survived until February 10, 1901. They had two children, namely William Benton, and a daughter who died at birth.

Another member of the Withrow family in this county is William J. Withrow, an uncle of William Benton, and a brother of his late father. William J. Withrow was born in Carroll County, Ohio, May 21, 1834, and is son of James and Elizabeth (Downs) Withrow who moved co Knox County in 1839. William J. Withrow grew to manhood in Knox County and from there, in October, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, 65th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and served until his honorable discharge at Hillsboro, Tennessee, in August, 1863. He participated in the battle of Stone River and in many skirmishes, but returned unharmed to his home. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. In 1863 he moved to Marion County, purchasing a farm of 40 acres to which he subsequently added 40 acres more. He married Catherine Horn and they have had six children.

William Benton Withrow was reared and educated in Green Camp township. On December 2, 1887, he was united in marriage with Myrtle Severns, a daughter of William and Drusilla. Severns, formerly of Knox County:. This marriage took place at Covington, Kentucky, and was of a romantic nature, only the principals knowing, anything about it until it took place. Mr. and Mrs. Withrow lived on the Withrow homestead until he bought his present farm of 60 acres, to which he later added 68 acres in Bowling Green township. Of the land that he farms 128 acres are in his own name and 120 acres are still in his father's name, although he is the only heir; his farm of 60 acres on which he lives is on the line between Green Camp and Bowling Green townships, on the Sager, Trey and Imbody turnpike, 12 miles west of Marion; his farm of 68 acres in Bowling Green township is opposite the old home place of his father and the 120-acre farm is about half a-mile east of his home farm. He carried on general farming, raising hogs, cattle and horses, wheat, clover and corn.

Mr. and Mrs Withrow have had five children, as follows: Earl, who attends the Agosta

High School; John; Oliver; Glenn, who die aged 10 months and 7 days; and Grace. The younger children attend the district school. The pleasant family home was erected by Mr Withrow and he has also built a substantial barn, with dimensions of 32 by 56 feet, wit a 26-foot shed. All the surroundings of this country home indicate thrift and good management

ADAM FREDERICK WOLFINGER,: who resides on his excellent farm of 176 acres situated in section 18, Richland township, was born January 6, 1843, in this township, and is a son of Jacob Frederick and Gertrude (Pfeiffer) Wolfinger.

The father of Mr. Wolfinger was born in Germany, where he lived into young manhood, attending the public schools and learning the trade of a shoemaker. Wishing to try his fortune in America, a friend made it possible for him to come to the United States. He located first in Maryland, where he worked at his trade for several years and then made his way to Fairfield County, Ohio, and still later to Marion County. Here he purchased from John Jones 96 acres of farming land in Richland township at $4.44 per acre, and soon erected a round log house. While engaged in clearing his land he worked at his trade at night and thus added to his income, by his industry and thrift accumulating a competency. He died at the age of 72 years. There were nine children in the family, as follows: John, residing in Oregon; William and Jacob, both deceased; Eliza deceased, who was the wife of Gottlieb Reeley; Adam Frederick; Catherine, who is the widow of Jacob Mautz; Caroline, who died at the age of 24 years; Elias, of Richland township, and Samuel, who died in infancy.

Adam Frederick Wolfinger remained at home and worked for his father until the later's death, his mother having died in his boyhood. In 1870 he bought 96 acres of land from Philip Bauer, which, with the 80 acres he had previously bought of John Mayer, of Pleasant township, make up his present farm of 176 acres. He farms both places but has always resided on the 96-acre tract, on which, in 1899, he built his handsome frame residence of 10 rooms. The substantial barn and other buildings he also constructed. His farm is generally conceded to be one of the best managed in the whole township.

Mr. Wolfinger is a member of the German Methodist Episcopal Church. He holds to no particular political creed, voting for the man who in his estimation will best carry out the principles of good government. Mr. Wolfinger is very popular in his neighborhood and his reputation is that of a man of sterling integrity.

ELIAS WOLFINGER, dealer in full blooded registered Delaine Merino sheep, resides on the old homestead farm of 96 acres, in section 18, Richland township, on which his late father settled many years ago. Mr. Wolfinger was born on this farm, July 20, 1848, and is a son of Jacob Frederick and Gertrude (Pfeiffer) Wolfinger.

Jacob F. Wolfinger was born in Germany (Sep 18, 1805 in Obernhausen, Graefenhausen, Wuerttemberg son of Johann Michael and Maria Katharina Kraemer Wolfinger) and was 21 years of age when he came to America, after a voyage of 72 days, landing at Baltimore, Maryland, a stranger half starved and without money. He found a six pence on the street and bought a loaf of bread, which constituted his first meal in America. He had learned the shoemaker's trade, however, and soon obtained work but he was not satisfied with city life, desiring to push on to the West and secure farming lands. Leaving Baltimore, he later reached Fairfield County, Ohio, working at his trade when occasion offered, and peddling clocks as a further means of subsistence. Thus he came to Marion County, and in the course of time purchased the farm on which his son Elias now lives, this property costing him $4.44 per acre. At that time Richland township was practically unsettled, consisting of a dense forest with scarcely a road cut through. Wild game was plentiful and he frequently had to drive the deer out of his young orchard. He cleared the first piece of land he bought and added other tracts. By marriage he became connected with the Fifer family, an old pioneer one, and nine children were born to him and his good wife, as follows: John, residing in Oregon; William and Jacob, both deceased; Eliza, deceased, who was the wife of Gottlieb Reeley; Adam Frederick, of Richland township; Catherine, who is the widow of Jacob Mautz; Caroline, deceased at the age of 24 years; Elias; and Samuel, who died in infancy. The mother died in 1850 and the father in 1879. They were most estimable people, possessing the respect and esteem of all who knew them.

Elias Wolfinger remained at home until he was 21 years of age, after which he worked two years away from home and then returned to assist his father, subsequently purchasing the homestead farm. Here he has carried on general farming and stock-raising and has made a specialty of breeding fine Delaine Merino sheep, full-blooded and registered. This as become a large industry and Mr. Wolfinger has all he can do to supply the demand, which comes from all over the country. Much credit is due him for having raised the sheep standard in this neighborhood so high.

Mr. Wolfinger was married when 26 years of age to Caroline Halt, a daughter of Frederick and Catherine (Treankle) Halt born September 24, 1850 in Kleinaspach, Wuerttemberg). (Her parents were from Germany - Johann Frederick Halt and Katharine Treankle. They were born in Germannsweiler, Wuerttemberg) The father of Mrs. Wolfinger died in Richland township, aged 88 years, but her mother still survives. Mrs. Wolfinger had two brothers and one sister, namely: John, deceased; Frederick; and Catherine, who is the wife of Frederick Fellmeth.

Mr. and Mrs. Wolfinger have had five children, namely: Samuel, who married Clara Ullmer and has one child, Edwin; Anna, deceased; John; William, who married Myrtle Lust; and Benjamin, deceased. The old famly home is one which was built by Jacob Wolfinger, but it has been enlarged and improved y by our subject. It stands far back from the public highway and is beautifully shaded by handsome pine trees.

Politically, Mr. Wolfinger is a Democrat. He was reared in the German Methodist Episcopal Church and was taught in the Sunday school. Like all of his name, he is an upright man and is noted for his thrift and industry and his success as a farmer

JACOB WOLFINGER, (PICTURE) whose portrait accompanies this sketch, was one of the highly respected citizens and substantial farmers of Marion township, where he died August 17, 1904. He was born in Richland township, Marion County, Ohio, October 14, 1838, and was a son of Frederick and Gertrude (Pfeiffer) Wolfinger, natives of Germany. (Obernhausen, Graenhausen, Wuerttemberg)

Jacob Wolfinger was reared to useful pursuits on his father's farm in Richland township, where he also attended school. In 1859, when about 21 years of age, he left home in order to see something of the world, and was attracted to California by the glowing tales told of the fortunes awaiting those who had the courage to go and seek them. He took passage on a vessel which went around Cape Horn and safely reached the gold fields where he engaged in mining for one year, going from there to Canyon City, Oregon. He remained in these rich mines for a considerable period, becoming a manager there. In 1869, after eight years of absence, he returned to Marion County, bringing with him enough earnings to purchase the farms aggregating 283 acres, which his widow and son now own and operate. Mr. Wolfinger was one of the fortunate gold seekers who, through industry and good management, secured enough of the precious metal to insure comfort for himself and family through life. He returned to the East by way of the Isthmus of Panama. For some years prior to his marriage he continued to farm and immediately afterward he settled on the present home place of 170 acres. He was a man of a great deal of energy and enterprise and as long as he lived took an interest in improving his possessions. In 1880 he erected the present commodious frame residence on the place, which contains nine comfortable rooms and later built barns and, sheds and purchased much valuable farm machinery. During his life-time he was much interested in the raising of first-class stock and in this industry his son continues, with equal success. The land owned by the family includes the home place of 170 acres, 18 acres in another tract in Marion township and 95 acres in Richland township.

On November 17, 1874, Mr. Wolfinger was married to Sarah Ann Blockson, who is a daughter of Sarnuel and Catherine Blockson, prominent farming people of Richland township. They had two children: Elizabeth and Samuel F. The former was born September 23, 1875, and is the wife of Jay Monnett, of Marion township. Samuel F., who was born September 5, 1878, manages the operation of the farm. The family belong to Calvary Evangelical Church.

JOHN WOLFINGER, a prominent farmer and well-known citizen of Waldo township, residing on his valuable farm of 79 1/2 acres, situated in section 34, belongs to one of the old pioneer families of this part of Ohio. Mr. Wolfinger was born in the old log house on the homestead farm in Waldo township, July 6, 1835, and is a son of John and Barbara (Kraner) Wolfinger.

John Wolfinger came to America from Germany before he had reached military age, stopping first in Fairfield County, Ohio, but later coming to Marion County, He was a very industrious young man and made many friends. In Fairfield County he was employed in a livery stable, but worked as a farmer after coming to Marion County, and saved up enough money to buy a wild farm of 40 acres, in Waldo township, on which he settled in 1832, probably about the time of his marriage. This part of Marion County was then entirely unsettled and when he took possession of his land, he cut down the first trees on the place, in order to find a space on which he could erect his round-log cabin. In this cabin the family lived for a number of years. The father worked early and late, subsequently adding 20 more acres of land and doing all the clearing himself. He did not live long enough to enjoy the results of his labor, dying when but 35 years of age, July 6, 1845, when our subject was a little boy, leaving his widow with a large family of small children. He was a worthy member of the Lutheran Church. He married Barbara Kraner, (born on May 5, 1811 in Wilferdingen to Michael and Eva (Kroener) Kroener) who was born in Germany and came to America with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kraner. The children of John and Barbara Wolfinger were: Barbara, who married Henry Hunselman; John; Jacob, who died in 1884; August, deceased; Christopher; Eva, who married John Click; and Sophia, deceased. Two children died in infancy. The mother survived until 1886, dying at the age of 72 years. She was a worthy member of the German Lutheran Church from the early days when services in this township were held in the various homes of the neighborhood.

John Wolfinger was 11 years of age when his father died and he then went to work for his uncle, Christian Kraner, with whom he remained for five years, working hard and not having much time to go to school. After he became the owner of a team of good horses, he returned to the home farm and went to operating it for his mother. In those days little machinery was in use and farming was hard labor. Mr. Wolfinger bought 60 acres of his father's estate, to which he added 60, buying from Frederick Bridge's heirs, and still later, 20 acres from Martin Snider. On the marriage of his son, Mr. Wolfinger sold him 60 acres, retaining still enough for his own use, on which he carries on general farming. When he settled here, there was an old house standing in the orchard, but Mr. Wolfinger soon built the present commodious eight-room frame residence and his large and substantial barns and other buildings.

On October 27, 1859, Mr. Wolfinger was married to Elizabeth Michtle (Maechtle) who was born in Ochsenbach, Wuerttemberg. Germany. Julv 5, 1835, and is a daughter of Johann Jacob and. Cstharina (Gaertner) Maechtle. Jacob Maechtle was born in Germany, where he learned the trade of a weaver. In 1844 he emigrated with his family to America, settling on a partly cleared farm in Pleasant township, Marion County, Ohio. After the death of his wife, he moved to Indiana, where he bought a farm with his son-in-law, Christian Weisess, and there he died. His four children were: Augusta, wife of Christian Weisess; Elizabeth; and two deceased.

Mr. and Mrs. Wolfinger have had two children, Jacob and Christina. Jacob resides on a farm of 80 acres, which includes the old homestead, adjoining the farm of his father. He married Mary Lust, a daughter of John Lust, of Pleasant township, and they have two children: Edith, who is the wife of Daniel Almendenger, and Minnie. The only daughter, Christina. who married William Lust, died in 1899, at the age of 32 years, leaving three children: Harvey, Elmer and. Charles.

Mr. Wolfinger has always been a stanch Democrat, but no inducement could ever make him consent to run for offce. With his family he belongs to the Lutheran Church, in which he has been an official for some time.

JOHN A. WOLFORD, (PICTURE) deceased, whose portrait accompanies this sketch, was for many years one of the foremost legal practitioners of Marion. He was born in Green Camp township, Marion County, Ohio, March 15, 1853, and died October 30, 1898.

John A. Wolford reached a high measure of success but it was the result of no fortuitous circumstances, simply the consequence of his own ambitious efforts. By hard work on the paternal farm he earned the means to enter Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, Michigan, where he completed a collegiate course of training, graduating in 1877. He had been engaged in the study of the law for some time and completed his law course with John F. McNeal, of Marion, with whom he entered into partnership in 1879, after his admission to the bar in 1878. After being associated in practice with Mr. McNeal for 15 years, Mr. Wolford engaged in practice alone for one or two years, and then formed a partnership with Daniel R. Crissinger, under the firm name of Wolford & Crissinger, which continued until his death. During his 20 years of practice he was connected with cases that stirred the whole county. He possessed an unusually fine mind which he had trained to a high degree and his professional work was characterized by those qualities which inspired the confidence and respect of his clients, the sincerest admiration of the bar and the high regard of the bench his personality was genial and attractive and his manhood to which he aspired was very high. His professional career was without a blemish.

On November 1, 1877, Mr. Wolford was married to, Mary A. Johnston. a daughter of Daniel and Susannah (Weaver) Johnston, of Monroe County, Michigan. Daniel Johnston a farmer and real estate dealer. He died March 6, 1886. Mrs. Johnston survived many years, dying at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Wolford, April 1, 1907. To Mr. and Mrs. Wolford was horn one daughter, Harriet May, who graduated from the Marion public schools in 1906. Mrs. Wolford and daughter reside in the family home at No. 517 East Church street.

Fraternally, Mr. Wolford was prominently identified with the Masonic bodies and his interest in the same continued to the time of his death. For a number of years he enjoyed the distinction of having been one of the youngest men ever elected as a presiding officer of Marion Chapter, No. 62, R. A. M. He was master of the blue lodge for two years and high priest of the chapter for five years.

OSWALD WOLLENWEBER, (PICTURE) president and treasurer of The Wollenweber Lumber Company, formerly vice-president of The Prendergast Lumber & Coal Company, both of Marion, has been for about 18 years a resident of the city of Marion, of which he is one of the most prominent and highly respected citizens. He was born at Columbus, Ohio, in 1867, and is a son of Ernest and Elizabeth (Schaad) Wollenweber, both of whom are deceased.

Oswald Wollenweber was reared in Columbus where he attended the public schools and early in life accepted a position in the office of The Kilburne & Jacobs Manufacturing Company, of his native city, in whose employ he remained for about three years. At the age of 21 years he came to Marion and entered the employ of the firm of W. & J. F. Prendergast as bookkeeper, and when The Prendergast Lumber & Coal Company was incorporated in 1895 he was elected secretary of the concern, some, years later becoming vice-president, and so continuing until early in 1907, when a reorganization brought about the dissolution of the company. On February 18, 1907, Mr. Wollenweber became president of The Wollenweber Lumber Company, in which were consolidated the entire business of The Marion Lumber & Coal Company and the retail business of The Prendergast Lumber & Coal Company, the wholesale business of the latter concern being assumed by The Prendergast Company. Mr. Wollenweber is also interested in many other business concerns of the city, including The Marion County Telephone Company, of which he is treasurer; The Houghton Sulky Company, in which he is a stockholder; and the Marion National Bank, of which he is a director. He is a member of the Marion Commercial Club and has been for two terms a leading member of the City Council of Marion.

Mr. Wollenweber was united in marriage in 1888 with Bertha W. Leffler, a daughter of Godfried Leffler, who is one, of Marion's most prominent business men. Our subject and his wife have two children: Oswald and Dorothy. Mr. Wollenweber and family are members, of the German Evangelical Church. he is a member of Marion Lodge, No. 32, B. P 0.E., and of the various Masonic bodies at Marion, including the blue lodge, chapter, council and commandery. His portrait accompanies this sketch.

CLINTON HERBERT WOOLGAR, D.D.S., one of the valued citizens of LaRue, and a leading dental surgeon of the village, was born at Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, June 6, 1873. He is a son of William and Paulina J. (Rook) Woolgar.

Dr. Woolgar is of English extraction. His maternal grandfather, John Rook, was born in York, England: after coming to America, he married, in New York, and then moved as a pioneer to Michigan. At that time the city of Detroit, which now covers his original farm, was but a trading post, with a few scattered homes and places of business. Later he moved to Ann Arbor, where he died. The mother of Dr. Woolgar was born near the latter city and died June 8, 1901.

The father of Dr. Woolgar was born in the city of London, England, and died in Michigan in 1878. During the Civil War, William Woolgar served gallantly as a member of the 26th Regiment, Michigan Vol. Cav., reenlisting at the close of his first term and spending three and a half years as a soldier, during nine months of this period being a prisoner at Andersonville. He survived this terrible. experience and returned to his home, where he was for some years a prominent member of the Grand Army of the Republic. He ,vas also a member of the Masonic fraternity. His children were Ernest M., a graduate of the Ohio Dental College, who is engaged in practice at Clyde, Ohio; Clinton Herbert, the subject of this sketch ; Bertha C., who resides at Fort Collins, Colorado; Clara E., who is a teacher in the public schools at Bethel, Wisconsin; and Fred R., a graduate of the Ohio Dental College, who is successfully engaged in the practice of his profession at Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Dr. Woolgar, after completing the common-school course, spent three years at Battle Creek College and one year at Franklin College, completing the junior year at the latter institution, and then entered the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Dental Surgery, in 1896, graduating from the medical department in 1899. He then took up the study of dentistry, in 1900 entering the Detroit Medical and Dental College, and in 1901 satisfactorily passing the examination of the Michigan Board of Dental Examiners. For several years he practiced at Detroit and then spent the winter of 1903 in the Ohio College of Dental Surgery, where he was graduated in 1904. Such thorough preparation for professional work is somewhat unusual and testifies to the enthusiasm with which Dr. Woolgar regards dental surgery and explains his unvarying success. he has a large and lucrative practice at LaRue and stands very high, both professionally and socially.

Dr. Woolgar was married to Kate Symms, who is a daughter of Daniel and Mary Symms, of Cincinnati. In religious belief, Dr. Woolgar is a Seventh Day Adventist.

JAMES F. WOTTRING, (PICTURE) cashier of the, People's Bank, of Green Camp, was born July 21, 1852, at Prospect, Marion County, Ohio, and is a son of Lewis H. and Rachel L. (Waters) Wottring.

Lewis H. Wottring was born at Stockertown, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1827, and is a son of Jacob J. Wottring, who brought his family to Marion County in 1839, settling on a farm in Prospect township. His death occurred at Prospect, February 11, 1892, at the age of 89 years and 3 months. He was one of the large land-owners of the township. Lewis H. Wottring married Rachel L. Waters at what was then called Middletown, but now bears the name of Prospect. She was born May 10, 1827, in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Nehemiah B. Waters, who was born in New Jersey and came to Marion County in 1834. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wottring are living. James F. is their only child.

James F. Wottring was reared and educated mainly at Prospect, attending a grammar school at Clyde for a short season. Until 1875 his father conducted a grocery store and for a number of years James assisted. His father then moved on a farm, from which he returned to Prospect in 1904. James followed house painting for a time and spent one year as clerk to judge B. C. Waters, an uncle, who was probate judge at Delaware. Upon his return, he again was associated with his father in a grocery business and in 1883 entered the Prospect

Bank as assistant cashier. When the People's Bank was organized at Green Camp, Mr. Wottring accepted the position of cashier, and moved his family to Green Camp, June 18, 1904. During his residence in Prospect township, he served as township clerk five years, as clerk of the corporation 12 years, as clerk of the village school district eight years arid as justice of the peace one term of three years.

In 1874 Mr. Wottring was married to Lydia D. Leist, who died July 1, 1901. She was survived by two children: Louis C.; and Mrs. Margaret E. Osborn, of Prospect. The former is a graduate of the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, and is practicing his profession in that city; he has one daughter, Lydia D. Mr. Wottring was married (second) October 7, 1903, to Eveline E. Gast. He is a. member of the German Reformed Church. He has been a prominent Odd Fellow for a number of years, belonging to Prospect Lodge, No. 483, arid to Prospect Encampment, No. 277.

LEWIS H. WOTTRING, who has been one of the representative farmers of Prospect township for man), years, now living retired with his wife, in the comfortable home of his son, at Prospect, still retains possession of his valuable farm of 109 1/4 acres, situated in the above named township. He was born near Stockertown, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1827, and is a son of J. J. and Hannah (,Mohr) Wottring.

J. J. Wottring, father of Lewis H., was born on the farm of his father, Jacob Wottring, in Pennsylvania. The grandfather was a farmer and also owned a blacksmith shop in which the son learned the trade. In 1839 J. J. Wottring and a neighbor by the name of Butz decided to remove to Ohio with their families. Mr. Butz made use of a two-horse wagon, but the Wottrings had four horses attached to their wagon and two horses to the buggy In which rode the mother and young children. They brought with them as much of their furniture as could be carried, one valuable piece being the old clock, about nine feet tall. It still keeps good time and Mr. Wottring values it highly.

The travelers settled on the old Martley farm on the Scioto River in Prospect township. then in Delaware County. This was a wild and unsettled section at that time. Game was plentiful in the woods and the deer were so tame they could easily be shot, but Lewis thought too much of them to kill them and even watched with interest when seven came to feed in his father's turnip patch. No roads had yet been cut through the forests and when any member of the family penetrated to, civilization he had to blaze his way, in order to return to the pioneer log cabin which they had found on the place. The father, with the assistance of his sons, began to clear the farm this being the first agricultural experience Lewis had ever had, as formerly he had assisted his father in the blacksmith shop. It was hard work to put in and harvest a crop, when everything had to be done by hand. The father and mother both died in Prospect township, being about 89 years of age. They had three children, namely: Lewis H.; Samuel P., deceased; and Eliza Ann, who married Dr. Farnum-both now deceased

Lewis H. Wottring was 12 years old when he accompanied his parents to Ohio and he attended school for some winters following. On September 3, 1848, Mr. Wottring was married to Rachel L. Waters, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, May 10, 1827, and is a daughter of N. B. Waters, who was a native of Pennsylvania and came as a pioneer to Fairfield County. Mr. and Mrs. Wottring have one son, James F., who is cashier of the People's Bank of Green Camp, which is a branch of the Prospect Bank, of. which his father is vice-president. James F. Wottring was married (first) to Lydia D. Liest, who at death left two children, namely: Louis Claude, practicing medicine at Cincinnati, who married Mary Keys and has one child, Lydia Dora; and Ethelyn, who married John Osborn and has one child, Donald. James F. Wottring married (second) Eva Gast.

Following his marriage, Lewis H. Wottring moved to what was then the village of Middletown, which he later assisted in having renamed Prospect. He was a natural mechanic and had had some experience in wagon-making and went to work in his father's shop with a Mr. Smith, but later learned the carpenter's trade and worked at the same for several years. He next was employed in the general store of J. A. Fields & Company and then worked for several years as a cabinet-maker in the shop of J. B. Gast, but finally bought his brother's grocery store. After conducting it for several years, he sold out and then went to Clyde, Ohio, where he entered into partnership with his brother, but after 18 months there he returned to Prospect, at his father's request.. For a number of years, Mr. Wottring engaged in a grocery business and when he retired from that he went to live on the home place, which he received from his father, and continued there for 24 years engaged in farming. In June, 1904, Mr. Wottring and wife removed to Prospect, where they have a pleasant home and congenial surroundings.

Politically, Mr. Wottring is a stanch Democrat. Since 1854 he has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and since 1874 has been a member of the encampment. He is a member of the Reformed Church. Portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Wottring accompany this sketch.

WILLIAM C. WOTTRING. who has been entrusted with the important office of treasurer of Marion County is numbered with the prominent and substantial men of this section of Ohio. He was born in Delaware County, Ohio, October 18, 1854, and is a son of Levi and Elizabeth (Steaver) Wottring.

The father of Mr. Wottring was a prosperous farmer in Marion County for many years and was well and favorably known. His death occurred in 1893. He married Elizabeth Steaver and they had a family of six children.

William C. Wottring was reared and educated in Marion County and here his interests are centered. His life has been mainly devoted to the lumber business, in which he has prospered. Politically he has always affiliated with the Democratic party and by this organization was elected county treasurer, in the fall of 1905, receiving the handsome majority of 917 votes.

Mr. Wottring was united in marriage with Eliza A. Lunger, who is a daughter of John Lunger, one of Marion's well-known citizens. They have two sons and one daughter. The family home is situated at No. 921 East Center street, Marion. Fraternally Mr. Wottring is connected with the Odd Fellows and the Woodmen.