76 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

ABRAHAM AMRINE (deceased), an old and highly respected pioneer of Union County. was born March 18, 1818, and died June 24, 1878. He was the third son of Henry and Mary Amrine, who came to Union County in 1821. He passed his boyhood and early life on his flat her's farm, and assisted him in clearing it up. September 12, 1839, he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Mackelfish, a native of Pickaway County, where she was born, April 26. 1818. Her parents, George and Malinda, Mackelfish, came to this county in 1833, and settled near Richwood. where they both ended their days; the former died August 25, 1861, and the latter April 16, 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Amrine were the parents of eleven children, of whom six are living: Mary M., wife of John Neulove; Sarah E., wife of Oliver Shaw; Elsworth, married Elizabeth Johnson; Henry N., married Sarah E. Wells, Martha E., wife of Lewis Bonnette, and Abraham, who married Ora Lee. In 1889, Mr. Avarice purchased 103 acres of the farm he left at his death. It was in its primeval state when he settled on it, which was in the fall of 1839. By earnest and constant labor he cleared up his farm to a cultivated state, and made additions, till he became the owner of 406 acres of valuable land, on which he made most of the improvements. He em. barked in life with small means, and in the woods; but by his untiring industry, economy and good business management he accumulated large property. he displayed a lively interest in all religious and educational matters. he and wife were members of tire Marysville M. E. Church, wit with which church he was identified for over forty-two years. He served in the capacity of class leader for eighteen years. He aided liberally in the erection of the M. E. Church of Marysville, with which he was associated till his death.

HENRY N. AMRINE, farmer , P. O. Marysville, son of Abraham and Nancy Amrine, was born on the homestead April 17, 1851. He was brought up to farming, and has always pursued that avocation, in connection with keeping thoroughbred Spanish Merino sheep, which he has followed the last five years with fine success. If is marriage occurred October 3. 1872, with Miss Sarah E. Wells, a native of Licking County, where she was born February 11, 1852. Her parents were Joseph and Mary Wells. Five children were the issue of this union: Mary O. Nancy C., Alice G., Henry C., and an infant daughter, deceased. Mr. Amrine owns a well improved firm of ninety-one acres. He is identified with the society of K. of P. and I.. O. of R. M. Politically, he is a Republican. Mr. A. is a member of the M. E. Church.

HENRY AMRINE, a prominent farmer of Paris Township. was born on the old Amrine Ironic. stead November 21, 1821. He is a son of Abram and Mary Amrine, and a grandson of - -, who were among tire earliest pioneers of Paris Township, and whose history is given in the general history of tire township. Mr. Amrine is the fourth son and seventh child of ten Children. He passed hits early life on his father's new and forest like farm, and received his training in the common schools of the county. In 1842, soon after his marriage, he located on 100 acres of land. which now constitute a part of his extensive farm His marriage occurred April 26, 1842, to Miss Martha Irvin, (laughter of William and Amelia (Evans) Irvin. The former came from Ireland with his parents some time prior to the Revolutionary war. His father was a soldier in that war, and received wounds from which he died a short time after its close. Mrs. Irvin was born in Staunton, Va ; her parents were natives of Wales, and also emigrated to America before Revolutionary days. Mrs. Amrine is a native of Madison County, Ohio; was born April 14, 1820. Mr. and Mrs. Amrine were blessed with three children, two of whom are living, viz. : Alfred, born February 7, 1843, married January 12, 1869, to Mi.,, Lucy Edson, and have two children-Nellie and Curtis ; Mary A., the Youngest child was born January 22, 1849, and was married November 1, 1868, to If. Whelpley ; they have two children-Edwin and James. Asbury L., the second child, was born July 14, 1845, and died November 14, 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Amrine started in life together, like many of their pioneer contemporaries, in limited circumstances and with few advantages. The farm on which they settled was largely and heavily timbered at the time, and it was through tire strongest exertions that they overcame the many difficulties and obstacles of their pioneer life, and Required for themselves a competence. By their active energy and industry they have accumulated large and valuable property, their farm consisting of over 700 acres of well improved land. besides large herds of livestock. In these years of their existence their lives have not been given wholly to the accumulation of wealth ; they have displayed a deep and active interest in the religious and educational institutions of the county and State. For many years they have been prominently identified with tire Old Amrine. M. E Church and its missions. They are among the largest contributors to the Ohio Wesleyan Univer-

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sity, having bestowed about $30,000 on that institution. Of late years Mr. Amrine has devoted his attention to raising fine sheep and horses, and has been successful in that avocation. His political affiliations have always been with the Republican party.

WILLIAM P. ANDERSON, druggist, Marysville. This gentleman was born in Montgomery County, Pa., January 31, 1836. His parents, John and Sarah (Price) Anderson, were natives and residents of that county. Being left an orphan at the age of five years, under the old law of Pennsylvania, was bound out to learn the saddler's trade, and when but twelve years old, had made everything in the harness line, from a whip to a saddle; at the age of thirteen, engaged at farm work ; between the ages of fifteen and twenty-one. learned both tailoring and cabinet-making. The subject of this sketch came to Ohio in 1856, locating in Lancaster, Ohio, where for a short time he worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1857. was appointed one of the officers of the Ohio Penitentiary, then under the Wardenship of John Ewing, of Chillicothe; resigned in 1858, and in connection with his brother-in-law, John H. Shearer. came to Marysville, Ohio, the same year, and engaged in the publication of the Marysville Tribune, and was also appointed Deputy Sheriff under Gen. A. Wiley. In 1861, was appointed Postmaster under President Lincoln's administration. Early in 1863, was appointed Deputy Provost Marshall for the Eighth Congressional District, resigned both positions in1863, and enlisted in the Ninth Ohio Independent Cavalry, known as the President's Escort, or Union Light Guards. Shortly after arriving in Washington, D. C, was detailed by Col. Wisewell, Military Governor of the District. for clerical duty on general and regular court maritals. Subsequently, by special order of Secretary of War Stanton, was transferred to the War Department proper and assigned to duty in the Briefing Department, where, soon after, he was placed in charge of the briefers, which position he held until mustered out with the command. At the organization of the Thirty-ninth Congress, December, 1865, received the first appointment as one of the officers of House post office. During the last session of the Thirty ninth Congress, served as private secretary to Capt. Ira Goodno, Door-keeper of the House. In the Fortieth Congress, was appointed one of the officers in the Doorkeeper's Department, and remained in the service until 1875, when he resigned. During his service in the War Department he briefed the document ever signed by President Lincoln. In the fall of 1875 he engaged with a house in Columbus as a commercial traveler until 1879, when he purchased the interests of J. J. Gledhill in the drug business in this city. John W., his son, having practical experience, is associated with him. Major Anderson, as our subject is familiarly known, is a member of the Ohio State Pharmaceutical Association, Mustering Officer of the Fifteenth District of Ohio O. A. R., and has taken all the degrees of Masonry in the York and A A. Scottish Rites, excepting the 33d. He has served as member of the City Council, and has always taken an active part In public affairs, and strongly attached to the interests of the Republican party. He was married February, 1858, to Miss Martha A. Kishler, daughter of John Kishler, late of Somerset, Perry Co., Ohio. John Willis and Emma E. are the fruits of this union.

F. T.. ARTHUR, merchant, Marysville. Charles and Harriet A. (Mealey) Arthur, the parents of our subject, were both natives of Maryland, and migrated to the West and formed home in the early settlements of Delaware County, where she died in 1881. He is at this time a resident of Delaware, having an interest in the Delaware Woolen Mill Company, with which he was formerly connected. They were the parents of five children, four of whom are living. The subject of this sketch was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1840. He wits raised on a farm and received his education in the schools of that county. In August, 1862, he enlisted as private in Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for the term of three years, and served in the fortunes of the Army of the Cumberland. On the battle field of Perryville, October 8, 1862, he was wounded in the left arm by a minnie ball, but filled his place in the ranks until discharged by reason of disability at Franklin, Tenn., April 29, 1863, as Second Lieutenant. He re-enlisted May 2. 1864, as private in the One Hundred and Forty fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and wag discharged as Commissary Sergeant at Camp Chase, August 2.5, 1864, by reason of expired tenure of service. Mr. A. came to this county in 1865, and in the following year engaged in the mercantile It business, which he followed until after his election to the office of County Clerk, in 1869. Three years afterward he was re-elected to the same position, and served two terms of three years each. During this time he engaged his spare moments to the study of law, and became so proficient that he was admitted to the bar at Columbus, by the Supreme Court, January 7, 1874. At the close of his public duties he again embarked in the mercantile trade, and occupied his present commodious store in January, 1882. He carries a large and complete stock of dry goods, and controls a fair and lucrative trade. Mr. A. was married in May, 1863, to Miss Alice M., daughter of David and Mary E. (Hempstead) Welsh. One daughter, Amelia H., born to bless this union, lived through the sunny summer of her youth, and just while life was sweetest, and the brightest flowers grew about her pathway, the reaper called her home. Her demise occurred August 2.5, 1882. D. D. Welsh was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, August 2.5, 1817. He settled as a farmer near this city in 1838, and was married, September 29, 1839, to Miss Mary E. Hempstead; she was born in Utica, N. Y., in 1818, and with her parents, Nathan and Polly Hempstead, came to this county in 1838. In 1843, he moved to Jackson County, Mich., where he died the following year. He was

78 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

a Captain of a company in the war of 1812, and raised a family of ton children, six of whom we still living. Mr. Welsh was one of the original stockholders of the Marysville Bank, and dealt largely in stock. He was left an orphan when six years of age, and was thrown upon his own resources. He made every movement available. and by perseverance and economy attained position and wealth. He was elected County Treasurer in 1861, and filled that position at the "a of his death in 1868. He owned, at the time of his death, 700 sores of land in this county, and was a man beloved and respected by all who knew him..

JOHN BARKER, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Marysville Sanitary 12, 1880. He is a son of John Barker, of Virginia, and Mary Hoyt Barker, a native of Pennsylvania. They were married in the Keystone State, and came to Marysville, where they resided a short time. Mr. Barker bought 100 acres of lead on the north side of Mill Creek, which he occupied a few years. then removed to the old Squire Amrine farm, and in 1885 located on the farm now owned and occupied by our subject. Mr. Barker died near Lewisburg, September 7, 1870. aged seventy-three; and Mrs. B. departed this life, October 28, 1858. in her fifty-seventh year. They had twelve children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the youngest. He was married October 29, 1857, to Harriet F. Turner, a daughter of Edmund Turner. by whom he has had two children-Edward H., born December 17, 1862 ; and Phebe A., born February 18, 1877. Mr. Barker hits always occupied the homestead, which contains 158 acres; he also has twelve acres in Allen Township, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and in politics is Democratic.

JOHN W. BARNES, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Harrison County, Ohio. June 19,, 1888. His parents were Levi and Susan (Rodgers) Barnes ; the former was born near Baltimore, Md., and the latter in Harrison County, Ohio. They removed to Guernsey County, Ohio, when our subject was but three years of age; Mr. Barnes died in 1846 and the following year John came with his brother, William Barnes. to this county and remained two years; in 1849 he returned near Cambridge and in 1850 came back to this county. where he has since reaided, except. while in his country's service. He entered the army in July, 1862. as a member of Company K, Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; after serving a year in the Western Army, he was transferred to the Department of the Gulf. He fought through the siege of Vicksburg and at Jackson, Carsion Cross Beau,. Sabine Cross Roads, Forts Gaines, Morgan, Spanish and Blakeley, and a number of minor battles; he was discharged at Mobile, Ala., July 15, 1865, at the close of the rebellion. He returned home and resumed his former avocation, which he has since followed. He was married, November, 1856, to Mrs. Catharine Hale, a widow of Jones Hale and a daughter of Athens Oliphant. Mrs. Barnes was born in Ross County, Ohio, November 30, 1833. They were blessed with six children, viz.: Lydia L.. wife of J. A. Bump; Boland J., married Anna Beightler; Lorenzo D., married Sarah J. Spain; Samantha J., Aaron B. and Georgiana. Mrs. Barnes had two daughters by her first husbandSarah, wife of William Epps, and Mary J., wife of Stephen Pyers. Mr. Barnes made his start in life by working by the month, and what he now owns is the fruits of his own labor. His farm contains ninety-five acres. and is under a good state of cultivation ; he is by occupation a farmer and stock-raiser. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church; he is connected with the Grand Army of the Republic, and in politics is a Republican.

GEORGE BEECHER. The subject of this sketch is a leading, influential citizen of Union County, was born near Utica, N. Y., April 18. 1827. His father, Zina Beecher, was born near New Haven, Conn., and was a first cousin to Lyman Beecher, the father of Henry Ward Beecher. His mother, Lucretia Sanford. was also born near New Haven, His parents were married in Connecticut, and moved to Herkimer County, N. Y., and in 1836 to Licking County, Ohio, where Mr. Beecher died September, 1868. Mrs. Beecher died February 4, 1880, at the ripe age of ninety-six years. She was a remarkably firm and intelligent lady, and retained her mental faculties up to the last. She was the mother of six sons and three daughters, of whom all the sons and one daughter are living-Lucretia (deceased); Beri. who resides in Granville. Ohio; Almelia deceased ; Lyman, who occupies the homestead in Licking County ; Edwin, of Fairfield, Ill.; Mary, wife of Carter Wilcox ; George, the subject of this sketch; Charles, of Cincinnati, attorney for the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad, and Walter, the youngest, resides in Mill Creek Township, this county. Mr. Beecher, our subject, was reared to manhood on his father's farm. For four years after he was of age, he worked for a salary of $100 per year. April 17, 1852, he came to Union County, and located on 185 acres of land in Mill Creek Township, which was in nature's original state. He cleared this farm, and continued to make additions till he now owns a body of land containing 509 acres, all of which he acquired by his untiring industry and-successful business management. In the fall of 1877, he purchased forty acres adjoining the corporation of Marysville on the east, sad erected on it a commodious frame residence. Mr. Beecher is engaged extensively in rearing fine sheep, and is ranked as one of the leading sheep-raisers of the county. For the last two years he has bought and shipped draft horses to Mansfield, doing a large and successful trade. He is a man of much force of character, and in the pursuits of life has been eminently successful. His marriage was celebrated January 16, 18.52, with Miss Rosanna Rogers, a daughter of M. W. and Mary Rogers, formerly of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Beecher is a native of Licking County, was born July 5, 1828. Three children are the fruits of this union-Alice A., wife of Marion Taylor, Clara and Mary L.

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SAMUEL BEIGHLER, farmer, P. O. Marysville, eldest son of Tobias and Sarah Beighler, was born in Paris Township December 10, 1828. He was reared and brought up on his father's farm, and was educated in the common schools. He was married April 12, 1849, to Miss Ann J. Fawcett, a daughter of Jesse and Philadelphia Fawcett. They have six sons living Asbury H., an attorney at law in Marysville; Warren, Jasper, John, Elwood and Tobias. Mr. Beighler purchased and located on his present farm in the spring of 1868. He cleared his hem from the "stump," and has well improved it. Mr. B. and wife are members of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican. He owns a farm of ninety acres, and is engaged in agriculture.

A. H. BEIGHTLER, attorney, Marysville. The Beightler family whose record maybe found In this volume, comprises one of the most extensive connections of the pioneer settlers. The subject of this sketch is a son of Samuel and Ann J. (Fawcett) Beightler, and was born in Paris Township, Union County, in 1852. He was raised on a farm and received his primary education in the high schools of this city, where he began the study of law in the office of R. L. Woodburn, in 1874. He was admitted to the bar April 20th, 1877, and the same year began the prac of his profession in Marysville, where he has since been constantly and actively engaged. He has served the township as clerk, and since his admission to the bar has filled the office of secretary of the Agricultural Society. he is a member of the Lodge and Chapter F. & A. M. at Marysville, and of the Commandry at Urbana and connected with the Presbyterian Church of this town. Politically Mr. B. is a stanch Republican. He was united in marriage to Miss Laura 0., daughter of G. T. Dorland, of Cincinnati, in 1880. Two children, Alice and Gordon R., are the issue of this union.

IRA BELVILLE, farmer, P. O. Marysville, son of Nicholas and Anna, Belville, was born in Paris Township April 19, 1939. He passed his early life on his father' a farm and received a common schooling. August 19, 1861, he married Caroline Smith, a daughter of Andrew and Jane Smith. She departed this life August 4, 1864, and August 4, 1867, Mr. Belville was again married, this time to Mrs. Rachel Draper, widow of Nelson Draper (deceased), and daughter of Adam Shirk. Three children were the fruits of this union: Anne L., Mary R. and Ada Rimy. Mrs. Belville died June 15, 1878. She had two children by her former husband ; of these one (Biance), is living. Hannah is deceased. In 1867, Mr. Belville took up his residence on his present farm. He is engaged in the pursuits of farming and rearing stock. His farm is located in Taylor and Liberty Townships and contains 81 acres. He has been prominently connected with the Grange, and in politics is Democratic.

ROBERT BELT, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born near Newark, Ohio, June 16, 1822. His parents, Benjamin and Rachel Crouch, were natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania respectively. They had nine children, of whom four are living: Leibe A. (wife of Samuel Park), Ella (wife of Asa Park), Robert and Wesley. Robert was reared on the homestead in Licking County and occupied it till 1846. In April, 1864, he came to Union County and bought 146 acres, his present farm. He was married in 1844 to Mary Park, a daughter of John and Margaret Park. She bore him ten children of whom five are living, viz.: Gilbert, George, Frank, Lucy and Ella. Alvin died October 22, 1846, Benjamin died October 21, 1864, Henry, December 1, 1864. and Isabell December 14, 1864. Mrs. Belt departed this. life January 6, 1865, of typhoid fever. The three children, Benjamin, Henry and Isabell, who preceded her but a few days, died from the same fever. Mr. Belt was again married, January 29, 1866, to Mrs. Mary C. Wells, widow of Joseph Wells, and daughter of Ezekiel and Sarah Cunningham. Mrs. Belt was born in Licking County September 2, 1832. She had two children by her first husband; one (Sarah E.) is living, now wife of Henry N. Amrine. Mr. Belt has cleared and well improved his farm which was covered with woods when he located on it in 1864. He has been a successful farmer; of late years he has devoted especial attention to rearing fine sheep. He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church of Marysville. He is associated with the Masonic fraternity. and in politics is a supporter of Republican principles end doctrines. He owns a farm of 148 acres, with good improvements, loomed near Marysville.

TOBIAS BIGLER (or Beighler), was born in Barks County, Pennsylvania, Jane 1, 1805. He is a son of George and Elizabeth (Lookenbill) Beighler, who were natives of Pennsylvania. The original name was spelled Beighler, but was subsequently changed to Bigler and since to Beightler. The name is of German origin, the grandfather of our subject having emigrated from Germany to the United States prior to the American Revolution. Tobias, the subject of this sketch, is the second son and fifth child of a family of eight children, of whom two are living, viz.: George, Elizabeth, Solomon. Rebecca, Sophia, Tobias, Sallie and Enoch. When our subject was four years of age, his parents removed to Licking County, Ohio, and the following year to Fairfield County, where he spent his boyhood and early manhood. He worked by the month at the small salary of $7 till he came to this county in the latter part of 1825. He "squatted " on land owned by James Dines for a short time then purchased one hundred acres of woodland for which he paid $450.. He cleared the site for his house. His dwelling place for several years was in the solitude of nature's wild dominion which was the habitation of the deer, wolf and bear. Mr. Bigler began the work of clearing and improving his farm and making additions -to his original purchase till his farm now contains 225 acres; of this 215 acres are well-improved

82 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

and under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Bigler was married January, 1827, to Miss Sarah Amrine, & daughter of John and Ornzie Amrine, and a native of Pennsylvania. Twelve children were the fruits of this union; of these eight are living, viz.: Samuel, Mary A., Andrew, John, Eliza, Daniel, Harrison and James M.; Abraham, Lewis, Solomon and George are deceased. Mrs. Bigler died March 25, 1862, and June 5, 1862, Mr. B. celebrated his second marriage with Nancy Barrows, daughter of Jeremiah and Mary A. Burrows. Of two children by this marriage one (Wilson H.) is living Nancy is deceased. Mr. Bigler is one of the sturdy old pioneers of Union County; he located within its limits when an almost unbroken forest, with no capital save his energy, which he diligently displayed in hewing down the monarchs of the forests and clearing up his farm. The broad acres with all their wealth of soil and improvements are the fruits of his years of arduous toil and industry. He is now bordering on the seventy-eighth year of his age, but is in possession of strong mental powers and a good physical condition.

HAMILTON BLUE, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Ross County, Ohio, May 24, 1819. He is a son of William and Margaret (Hamilton) Blue, natives of Old Virginia. Mr. Blue was born December 12, 1796, and Mrs. Blue, January 4, 1798. Mr. Blue's parents, John M. and Catharine Blue, removed to Ross County in 1808; his wife's parents, Alexander and Mary Hamilton, settled there about the same time. Mr. and Mrs. Blue were married May 28. 1818, and had lour sons-Hamilton, Josiah, David and William. They removed to Union County in 1882, and located in Paris Township, where Mr. Blue died, May 12, 1879. His widow lives .with Josiah, the second son. Hamilton was reared to manhood on a farm, and was educated in the common schools. October 20, 1839. he united in marriage with Susan Orahood, a daughter of Samuel and Polly Orahood, and a native of Hardy County, Va. She was born February 29, 1816. Her death occurred June 20, 1873, leaving one son and five daughters-Alexander, Melissa (wife of Joseph Snider), Mary E. (wife of Charles Amrine), Margaret (wife of Peter Heckel), Susan (wife of Jacob Reed) and Clarinda. Mr. Blue married the second time, October 29, 1876, to Mrs. Mary Martin, widow of Benjamin Martin and daughter of John and Euthania Thompson. Mrs. Blue was born in Virginia, October 29, 1817. She had nine children by Mr. Martin-Caroline (wife of John Johnson), Riley, Charles C., Mattie (wife of Alexander Blue) are living. Mr. Blue settled on his present farm in 1851; and has since occupied it, engaged in farming and rearing stock. Ilia farm contains 125 acres, and was all in woods when he located on it. He has cleared it up and aided in making many of the improvements of his neighborhood. He and wife are connected with the Christian Church. He is associated with the Masonic fraternity anti in politics with the Democracy.

JOSIAH BLUE, farmer, second son of William and Margaret Blue, was born in Ross County, Ohio, October 24, 1822. When ten years of age, his parents removed to Union County, and young Blue spent the rest of his early life on his father's farm, in the northern part of Paris Township. He married, September 10, 1846, to Malinda Orahood, a daughter of Samuel and Mary Orahood. Mrs. Blue was born in Union County, and died in February, 1848. and left one son and one daughter-Lewis F. and Nancy. Mr. Blue's second marriage occurred in 1851, with Mrs. Susanna Orahood, daughter of Levi and Susan Wells, and widow of Joseph Orahood. Of six children by this union, four are living-Sarah (wife of Silas G. Gray), Lucy, Dorcas, Dells, William and David. In 1851, Mr. Blue bought fifty-one acres of his present farm, find made additions till he now owns 171 acres, most of which he cleared and improved from the "stump." He is connected with the Masonic order and Democratic party and is a successful farmer.

R. S. BONNETTE, Superintendent of the County Infirmary, was born in Ohio County, Va., February 10, 1834. He is a son of John and Ann M. Bonnette, who came to Union County in 1840 and located in Leesburg Township, where our subject was reared to manhood. September, 1862, he volunteered in Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the following principal battles: Perryville, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain, and a number of minor battles. he accompanied Gen. Sherman on his march to the sea, and participated in all the engagements of note. In the spring of 1864, he was commissioned Sergeant. and served in that capacity until discharged. He returned home and farmed till 1868, and engaged in the grain trade in Dover, which he carried on till 1873. He returned to his farm, and was engaged in its pursuits till March, 1882, when he was appointed to his present charge. He has managed the institution successfully and creditably. He was married, October 9, 1856, to Heater A. S. Brown, a native of Union County, born March 16, 1837, and a daughter of S. P. G. and Sarah Brown. They have three children-Elbert W. (married Glennie Dodge). Linnie E. and Nelson 1. Mr. and Mrs. Bonnette are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Bonnette is identified with the IOOF and G. A. R., and in politics is a Republican. He served as Trustee of Leesburg Township two years. His farm in Leesburg contains 118 acres of well improved land.

JOHN K. BORGER, was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 8, 1841, and in 1843 was brought to America by his parents, William and Elizabeth B. Borger. They settled in Columbus, and in 1858 remove d to Darby Township, and in 1861 to Union Township, where Mrs. B. departed this life September 11, 1870. John is the youngest of five children. When fifteen years of age he took up the trade of bricklaying, with George A. Fox, of Marysville and followed

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it three years, since which time he has pursued the &vocation of farming and keeping stock, October 18, 1866, he was joined in marriage to Miss Maggie Magerlein, who was born in Bavaria, Germany, and came to this country with her parents, Leonard and Eve Magerlein, when only a child. She bore seven children, of whom six are living, viz. : John F., John L., Mary A., Latin L., John W. and George E. Charlie C. is deceased. Mr. Borger died August 20, 1882. Mr. B. was the possessor of 175 acres of rich land, fifty-two acres of which are situated in Paris Township. It is adorned with a substantial brick residence and other good improvements. Mr. Borger was a good, law-abiding citizen. he was a member of the Lutheran Church and a Democrat.

JOHN BRAUN, tailor, Marysville, is a native of Germany, where he was born in 1842. He crossed the waters to the land of the free in 1831, and loomed at Columbus, Ohio, where he worked at his trade until 1874, at which time he came to this city and engaged at his evocation with Otte Brothers. Here he has bent his energies to his task with scarcely one day of relief or relaxation. He was, however, possessed of the true German element, and by strict economy anti indomitable energy has made fine possessions. He erected a brick block of buildings in East Center street at a cost of $7,000, which is a fine addition to the street. Mr. Braun was married in 1865 to Miss Coney, daughter of Stephen Childers, a native of this county. Five children born to this union are all living, viz.: Clara, John, Harvey, Adam and Georgia.

JOHN M. BRODRICK, attorney, Marysville. John M. Brodrick, prosecuting attorney, is a native of Allen Township, Union County, where he was born May 19,1854. His parents, Isaac, Jr., and Sarah P. (Hoff) Brodrick, with their respected and venerable ancestors, were among the pilgrims and founders of Allen Township, who built their cabins in the forest. and scattering the a seed of that better intelligence, which, growing year by year, has transformed the dense forest into well cultivated fields and waving grain. A history of their settlement appears in another portion of this work. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, and learned to labor with his hands. He received his primary education in the district schools, and academy at Lewisburg. He began teaching school when eighteen years of age, and two year: afterward began the study of law in the office of Porter & Sterling, of this city. He was admitted to the bar September 5, 1875, and began the practice of his profession in this city November 1, 1876. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney in November, 1881, and fills that position at this time. He has also served two terms as Corporation Clerk, and has, by close application and attention to business, cultivated and sustained a large and well merited practice. He is a loyal Republican. a member of the Masonic fraternity, and past officer in the IOOF Mr. B. was married April 16, 1878, to Miss N. M. G., a daughter of B. T. Benton, and a native or Delaware, Ohio. One child, William F., is the issue of this union.

AARON BROWN, farmer, P. O. Marysville. a native of Fayette County, Pa., was born March 2,1813. His parents, Vincent and Amelia (Wilson) Brown, came from Pennsylvania to Union County in 1830 and settled in Darby Township, where Mr. Brown died in 1847 and Mrs. B. in 1862. Aaron is the sixth of nine children. He was reared to manhood a farmer boy. April 15, 1848. he united himself in marriage with Elizabeth Brown, a daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth Brown, and a native of Pennsylvania, where she was born November 11, 1826. Of seven children by this marriage only two are living: Amelia, and Harriet, wife of David H. Smith. Mr. Brown resided in Darby Township till 1866, when he removed to the farm he now occupies. He owns 129 acres of land, and is by occupation a farmer.

THOMAS BROWN, Ex-Judge of the Probate Court, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, March 25, 1819. In 1824, his parents Allen and Margaret M. Brown, came across the waters and settled in Clermont County, Ohio, where they resided two years, in IS27 removing to Campbell County, Ky., and in 1829 to Highland County, Ohio, where they were among the earliest pioneers. Mr. Brown bought a farm and kept a country tavern on the Cincinnati & Chillicothe Stage Road, fifteen miles west of Hillsboro. He entertained the "pioneer travelers" for twenty years, and died January 10, 1860. His widow followed him in September, 1876. They were the parents of six children, of whom our subject is the second. He was reared on a farm till fifteen, when he began and served an apprenticeship of four years and a half at tanning at Point Pleasant, Ohio, the birth place of Gen. Grant. At the expiration of this time he entered upon a course in Miami University, of Oxford, Ohio, and remained a student three and a half years, when, on account of ill health, he retired and taught school three years. In 1844, he engaged in the mercantile trade in Highland, and in 1846 removed to Marysville, where he continued in merchandising till 1851, where he was elected Probate Judge. In 1860. he was appointed to the same position to fill a vacancy. While Probate Judge he read law and was admitted to the bar in 1864. After practicing law two years, he again engaged in mercantile pursuits, retiring in 1870. The following year he embarked in the insurance business, and now represents the following companies, viz.: Hartford, Continental, North British and Mercantile, Lancashire Sun, Ohio, Dayton, Niagara and Michigan Mutual. Judge Brown was twice Mayor of Marysville and two terms Infirmary Director. He was first married April 4, 1849, to Miss, Mary E. Root, who died September 12, 1873, leaving four children; William M., Matilda R., wife of W. M. Liggett, Margaret S., wife of W. F. Gallaher, and Harry E. His second marriage occurred November 4, 1875, to Miss Sarah A. Carpenter, daughter of James Carpenter, of Delaware County. Judge Brown and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

84 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

B. V. BUFFINGTON, physician, Marysville. Dr. Buffington has attained considerable prominence as practitioner of this city and has won a merited reputation. He was born near Harpers pers Ferry, Va., in 1838. In infancy, his parents, Samuel and Nancy A. (Wheatley) Buffington, moved and settled in Pleasant Township, Clark Co., Ohio, being among the pioneers of that town hip. Subsequently they selected a home at Milford Center, Union County, where they yet reside. Here the subject it of this sketch was brought up and received hie common school education. At the age of twenty-two years, he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Leonard, of Urbana, and after four years of constant application and service, began the practice of his profession. He passed graduation at the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati in 1873, and as a student of that school has built up a large practice. Dr. B. became a resident physician of Marysville in 1868, and has firmly established himself as a successful doctor and esteemed citizen. He was married in New Carlisle. Clark Co., Ohio, in 1874, to Miss J. H. Johnson, a native of that county. Three children were born to this issue, two of whom are living, viz.: Edna B and Opel A. Dr. B. is associated with the IOOF society.

JOHN Q. BURGNER, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, was born in Delaware County Ohio, October 21, 1853 ; his parents were William Burgner and Mary A. Kile, his wife, the former of German and the latter of Scotch descent. William Burgner was born in Pennsylvania, in 1826, and when two years of age came to Ohio with his parents, settling in Fairfield County. 1860, he removed to Delaware County, and in 1872 came to Richwood, this county, where he now resides. His wife died in 1856. The subject of this sketch was raised principally on a farm and acquired his education in his native county. In 1872, he removed with his father to Richwood, and in the autumn of 1875, engaged with him in the mercantile trade under the firm name of William Burgner & Son. In October, 1881, he was elected Clerk of the Courts on the Republican ticket, and assumed the duties of his office in February, 1882. Mr. Burgner is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of Marysville, and is identified with the Masonic fraternity and Knights of Pythias.

AMOS BURRIS, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born on the Whitewater River, in Indiana, September 4, 1825. When three years of age, his parents, Jeremiah and Mary (Billater) Burris, removed to Adams County, and in 1841, to Union County. His father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died near Marysville December 25, 1863, aged seventy-two years. Amos, the subject of this sketch, was reared to manhood on the farm. May 15, 1844, he was joined in marriage with Miss Polly A., daughter of Moses and Elizabeth Amrine, by whom he has had six children, viz.: Randolph F., William M.. Martha, wife of Alonzo Reed, Josephine. Mahlon and Edgar. Mr. and Mrs. B. are connected with the United Brethren Church. He owns a farm of forty-six acres and is engaged in tilling the soil.

J. L. CAMERON, attorney, Marysville, is a native of Union City, and was born in Jackson Township May 22, 1814. His parents, Joseph and Sarah (Reed) Cameron, were natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively. They founded a home in Jackson Township, in 1821, and were among its earliest and most respected pioneers. He a was a successful farmer and resided on the homestead to the close of his life, in 1873. His devoted companion, who survives, is in the seventy-third year of her age. They were the parents of eight children, seven of whom are living. The subject of this sketch was reared on the homestead, where he was diligently engaged until the 7th day of October, 1868, when he joined the forces of the Union Army, in Company C, Twelfth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and was discharged as Corporal, at Chattanooga, Tenn., August 81, 1865. He participated in the battles of Cynthiana, Ky., Laurel Gap, Va., Mount Sterling, Ky., June 9, 1864; Wytheville, Va., December 16, 1864; Saltville, Va.. December 20, 1864; Marion, December 22, 1864; and on the memorable Stoneman raid, in February, 1865. Returning to peaceful pursuits, he began the study of law under the preceptorship of lion. J. W. Robinson, of this city. He was a pupil apt to learn, diligent and persevering in application to his studies, and became thoroughly versed in the arts of law. He was admitted to the bar in 1867, and soon after began the practice of his chosen profession in Marysville, where he has since been successfully engaged. It is but justice to say of Lawyer Cameron, that he was without the aid of advantageous circumstances, but has risen from the humble walks of life, to be classed among the leading attorneys at the bar of Union County. He was married, in 1872, to Miss Emma, daughter of William Toomire, of Champaign County, Ohio. Two children born to this issue-Mabel and Richard, are both living. Mr. C. is a member of the Masonic fraternity and a veteran in the ranks of the G. A. R.

B. F. CARMEAN. dry goods. Marysville. This house established business in this city April 1, 1880, under the firm name of B. F. Carmean & Co. The copartnership dissolved the following year, and B. F. Carmean, succeeding the company, became sole proprietor. He carries a stock of about $20,000, and has a large and increasing trade. Mr. C. is a native of Ohio, born in Van Wert County, in 1854. His parents, Smith and Sarah A. Carmean, were natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively. His father died in 1855, and in 1857, his mother moved to Auglaize County, where the subject of this sketch lived a "farmer boy " until eighteen years of age, and since then has been engaged in selling dry goods. Prior to Mr. Carmean's locating in this city, he lived in Washington C. H., Ohio, where, in 1879, he was married to Miss Millie J. McElwain, a native of Fayette County.

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JOHN CASSIL, deceased. Judge John Cassil was a son of Alex and Mary (Gray) Cassil, natives of Pennsylvania and Scotland respectively, and was born in Washingten County, Penn., February 19, 1803. His father moved to Jefferson County, Ohio, when he (John) was quite young. Subsequently he settled in Greene County, where both his parents died. The subject of this sketch was married in Jefferson County, Ohio, April 7, 1825, to Miss Drusilla Gladden, a daughter of Joseph and Hannah (Munn) Gladden, and a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, where she was born June 12, 1806. After marriage he became engaged in the woolen mills at Steubenville, Jefferson County, and in 1883, he removed to this county and purchased the land now known as the Mason Gill farm, upon which he settled. After ten years of farming, he took up his residence in Marysville, and for some years edited the Marysville Argus (now the Tribune). In 1842, he was elected Clerk of Courts, afterward served the county as Auditor, and wag Associate Judge some years. At the breaking out of the rebellion he recruited Company F, Sixty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as First Lieutenant, and resigned as Captain, June 21, 1862. He was wounded at Fort Republic, and though the wound was not Seri. ous. he did not recover from the effects of it for some months. He re returned to his home in 1863. At the time of his death he wits Justice of the Peace. and Mayor of this city; in early life he associated with the Christian Church, and was a man widely known and highly esteemed. His demise occurred at the residence of his son in Jasper County, Mo., June 16, 1864. He was the father of thirteen children-Gustavus A., a resident of New Mexico ; Hannah, widow of James Kinkade of this city; Mary G., deceased Samuel, deceased; Joseph G., a printer at Woodfield, Monroe Co., Ohio; Alexander G., who enlisted in the Nineteenth Ohio Battery, and afterward raised a company of colored troops (artillery) in Tennessee, and died at the Soldier's Hogue, Dayton, Ohio, December 19, 1882; Mary J., wife of Hon. J. W. Robinson; Reuben, a resident of Fort Bend County, Texas; Edward, deceased; James M., a resident of Fort Bend County, Texas; Martha E., at home: David G , deceased, and Drusilla, deceased.

A. S. CHAPMAN. The parents of the gentleman whose name heads this notice were Roswell Riggs Chapman, born in Blandford, Mass,, September 21, 1793, and Phoebe Stansbery, born in Scotch Plains, N. J., March 1, 1798. In 1803, the Chapman family came to Ohio with the Scioto Company. and located at Worthington, Franklin County. This company was composed of Members of the Episcopal Church. and was intended to establish an Episcopal settlement under the leadership of Col. James Kilbourn, who was its first minister. The Chapmans, who were Presbyterians in their religious belief, took the place in the colony of a family which failed to emigrate, and settled on the west side of the Olentangy River, about three miles above Worthington. The oldest son, Roswell Riggs Chapman, enlisted in Capt. Levi Pinney's Company in the war of 1812, served as a musician, becoming fife major of his regiment, and was taken prisoner by the British at Detroit upon the surrender of that post by Gen. Hall. After his return, he engaged as clerk for the Scioto Company in their store, subsequently forming a partnership in the dry goods, grocery and general produce business with his uncle, Dr. Daniel Upson. In the spring of 1816, he was married to Phoebe Stansbery. His health failed in 1826, and in 1827, being threatened with consumption, he went South, thinking to derive benefit from the change. The disease, however, had too strong a hold upon him, and he died on a steamer on the 13th of December, 1827, and was buried at Natchez, Miss. His wife. Phoebe Stansbery. was the only child of Judge Recompense Stansbery, who emigrated to Worthington, Ohio, in 1810. coming through Pennsylvania, down the Ohio River on a flat-boat and up the Muskingum as far as Zanesville, thence by wagon to Granville, in what is now Licking County, Ohio, an,] across the country to Worthington. Between the latter points there was then no road, and he was compelled to clear his way with an ax. Mr. Stansbery occupied a prominent position in the new settlement. In 1814, he was appointed Associate Judge of the Court of Common Pleas; wits Justice of the Peace, and in that capacity Married many of the early settlers, among them Orange Johnson and wife, pioneers of Columbus. He was for twenty-five years Postmaster at Worthington; was a large landholder and stock owner, having at one time 1200 sheep, when the region was yet thickly infested with wolves. He died in 1843. Albert Stansbery Chapman was born in Worthington, Franklin Co., Ohio, April 26, 1823, and passed his early years in acquiring an education. At the age of twelve, he began attending school at Blendon, under the instruction of Rev. Ebenezer Washburn, remaining two years, and next became a pupil of the Worthington school, taught by Rev. R. K. Nosh. At the age of eighteen years, he began reading medicine and teaching school during the winters. In 1843. He entered as clerk the dry goods establishment; of his uncle, Ira Reynolds, at West Liberty, Logan Co., Ohio, where he remained until 1846, going thence to Richland, in the same county, where he established a Store of his own. In 1846, he removed to the village of Newton, in Liberty Township, Union Co., Ohio, engaging in mercantile business, and remaining until the fall of 1847, when he returned to Richland and entered into partnership with his brother in merchandising and the manufacture of saleratus and boots and Shoes. In 1854, he again came to Union County, settling at Marysville, and embarking in the dry goods business in company with his brother and Isaac Channell. In the fall of 1855, owing to the failure of his health consumption threatening him-he closed out his business, purchased the old homestead at Worthington, and moved upon it, having lived there during his youth with his grandfather, Judge Stansbery. Being compelled from the state

86 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

of his health to seek out-of-door employment, Mr. Chapman acquired a taste for farming, and in 1862, purchased the farm in Jerome Township, Union County, now owned by John Curry, containing about 182 acres. In the spring of 1870, he located a second time at Marysville, entering into partnership with his son in the agricultural implement business, under the firm name of 0. S. Chapman & Co. In 1874, he and others organized the People's Bank, at Marysville, and in 1876, he formed a partnership with John S. Fleck, under the firm name of Fleck & Chapman, for the purpose of manufacturing doors, sash and blinds, end dealing in lumber. The business of this firm has increased from $7,000 in 1876, to $60,000 in 1882, over two million feet of lumber, and fifty cars of. shingles, and both handled in a year. When he came here, in 1874, he subscribed stock to a company formed for the purpose of manufacturing tubs, spokes, feather strips, etc., and became its superintendent and treasurer. He disposed of his stock when he become a partner in his present business with Mr. Fleck, in 1875. Mr. Chapman is still interested in agriculture, and in company with his son owns 386 acres of land in Jerome Township. When twenty-two years of age, Mr. Chapman married Miss Eveline M. Couch, of Springfield, Ohio, and to them have been born three children, of whom Charles Stansbery Chapman, present cashier of the People's Bank at Marysville, is the oldest, and the only survivor; Frank, the second child, died at the age of five years; Minnie, the youngest, was married in 1871, to A. J, Reicherts, of Delaware, Ohio, and died in 1872, leaving one child, who is living with her grandfather Chapman. Mr. Chapman, being left at the early age of four years without the example and counsel of a father, found that he must place dependence on himself in the great battle of life, and consequently determined to devote himself to study and become master of any business in which he should choose to engage. During his whole life it has been his aim to deal fairly and in good faith in his business transactions, and his word being once given has never been strictly kept. Being of a careful and cautious nature, he has never engaged in wild or vision ary speculations, but preferred the natural growth and legitimate profits of regular business. By strict attendance to business matters, with industry and economy he has accumulated not great wealth, but a sufficient competence. Charles Stansbery Chapman. oldest son and only Surviving child of A. S. and Eveline (Couch) Chapman, was born in Union County, Ohio. November 16, 1646; was educated in the schools of Worthington, Franklin Co., Ohio, and in 1870, came to Marysville, and engaged in business with his father. He has also been a member of the stock company which operates the People's Bank since its organization, and has hold the position of cashier from the beginning of the bank's existence. This position he fills admirably, and his genial and gentlemanly qualities insure for him popularity and the respect of patrons and citizens generally. He is a joint owner with his father in a large farm in Jerome Township. the two engaging extensively in stock-raising. Mr. Chapman's energies are always alive to public improvement and business advancement-traits which he inherits from his father. In 1870, he married Anna T., daughter of James Kinkade (now deceased), of Marysville, and two children - Frank T. and Max, have blessed this union.

F. J. CHERRINGTON. photographer, Marysville. This social gentleman is a germ of the Buckeye State, and was born near Gallipolis, Ohio, in 1845, his parents, Jefferson and Mary (flank) Cherrington, being distinguished among the early and respected pioneers of Galila County. His father was a farmer and resided in that county until his death. He was in early life a teacher of schools and music, and a life-long member of the M. E. Church. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and learned to labor with his hands, Attaining age and having a natural taste for photographing, he learned the trade and established himself in business at Logan, flocking County, Ohio. Four years afterward he came to this city and opened the gallery on Alain street, and opposition of no merit being offered in the Main street studio, he purchased the concern, since which time he has had control of the trade in the city and county surrounding. He is a thorough student of his profession, and produces the most approved styles of photography. Mr. C. during the rebellion gave his service to the one hundred day call in the One Hundred and Forty-first 0. V. I. He was married in 1874 to Miss Hattie, a daughter of George Strong, of Logan, Ohio. Two children born to this union are both living, viz.: George N. and Winnie M.

D. S. CLEMENT, retired, P. O. Marysville. David S. Clement, one of Union County's prominent pioneers, was born in Madison County, Ohio, July 15, 1831. He came to this county when a youth with his parents, where he acquired his education, and locating fit the southwestern part of the county, engaged in the mercantile trade. Here he built up a large business and named the place Irwin, which name it yet retains, and has become a populous village. He secured the first post office, and was virtually the founder of Irwin He served as Postmaster for ten consecutive years, and for a long period was Justice of the Peace. In 1865, he joined a colony and emigrated to Hannibal, Mo., and four years later returned and settled in Marysville, where he has since made his home. He subsequently engaged in the greenhouse business until 1882, when he retired from the active duties of life, to the comforts of his home and family.. His companion in marriage, whose maiden name was Lydia A. Miller, is a daughter of James Culver Miller, and his mother (Zelinda) was a descendant of the celebrated Burnham family, which is found in the early records of Massachusetts and Connecticut. The coat-of-arms to the name was granted on the 25th of October, A. D. 1517, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, to Sir

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William Burnham, of the West of England. The records go to show that the Burnham family spring from three brothers who landed at Cape Ann about the seventeenth century. Two of the brothers (John and Thomas), settled in Ipswich, Massachusetts, and Joshua at a place called Black Point in New Hampshire or Maine. The present representatives of the family come of the fifth generation, of which Ebenezer is the head. He with his sons (John and Josiah) were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. Hiram G. Miller, great grandson of Ebenezer, was born June 28, 1828, and is a resident of this county. Mr, and Mrs. Clement are the parents of one child-Estella (wife of Henry Burnett, of this city).

HON. J. B. COATS. Probate Judge, Marysville. John B. Costs was born in Guilford, Windham Co., State of Vermont, on the 5th day of September, A. D. 1821, in which State, with the exception of about two years' residence in the State of Massachusetts, he continued to reside until a few weeks prior to reaching majority. He was principally engaged in farm I labor during this time, leaving home to engage in the battle of life, on his own account, when a little over thirteen years of age. He received such education as the common schools afforded at hat time, and after leaving home made it a point to attend school during the three winter months, until arriving at majority. In 1842, he bid adieu to his native hills and started for Ohio. selecting it as, in his judgment, the best of the then Western States, arriving at Xenia in September of the aforesaid year. After attending school at the latter place for a few months, to add to his then limited store of knowledge, and familiarize himself with the customs of the country, he commenced teaching near Jamestown. Greene Co.. Ohio. He continued teaching and labor ing on a farm up to the year 1848, during which time he had read law with John H. Watson, of

Xenia, at which place he was admitted to the bar, on the 17th day of June, A. D 1847. In 1848, his health having become so impaired as to incapacitate him for entering upon the practice of his profession, he returned to his native State to recuperate, where he remained for about a year and a half, engaged in teaching and various pursuits a portion of the time. His health being restored, he returned to Ohio and located in Marysville, in December, 1849, entering into partnership in the practice of law with P. B. Cole, Esq., which partnership continued for about two years. Soon after coming to Marysville, he engaged in editorial labors, at intervals, as assistant editor of the Marysville Tribune. then under the control of the late Hon. C. S. Hamilton; being a pronounced Whig in politics, he labored in various ways to insure the success of that party till it ceased to exist, when he became a Republican. In November, 1858, he purchased the Tribune of Mr. Hamilton, assumed the editorial control of the same and continued to act in that capacity for one year, when he sold out. During his brief editorial career, he still continued in the practice of the law, in partnership with John L. Porter under the firm name of Coats & Porter. This was continued with an interruption of a few years up to 1862, when Mr. Porter went into the army. In 1858, he began acting as assistant editor of the Union Press and so continued until 1859; and in 1861 he assumed the editorship of the same paper, and in this capacity acted until the paper changed hands, some time in 1868. While engaged editorially, he labored with zeal to promote the success of the Republican party, and was a delegate in the convention of July 13th, 1854, at Columbus, which practically formed that party, and to which he has adhered during the years of its existence. The first office he was called to fill was that of Justice of the Peace, to which he was elected in 1861, serving three years, and Main elected to the same office in 1857. In 1859, he was elected to the office of Prosecuting Attorney of the county, a position that he held for three successive terms, when he retired. At the October election, in 1869, he was elected to the office of Probate Judge, which office, by successive elections, he now holds, having entered on his fifth term. At the April election, in 1 878, he was elected a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, to which position he had been nominated by a Republican convention, held in March of that year. It is but justice to Judge Costs to say that he did not seek this, and during the canvass, prior to his nomination, spoke the use of his name, believing it not in the fitness of things that he. while holding one office, should seek, or be elected to, another; but on receiving the nomination, he deemed it but justice to his friends who had placed him in nomination, that he should accept, and leave the matter in the hands of the people, to whose decision in the premises, he felt willing to submit with cheerfulness. He had numerous competitors for the nomination, which, as he had foreseen, caused some bitterness of feeling, and his competitor at the polls being an independent candidate, made the contest a very lively one, out of which he came with a majority of thirteen, in a very light vote. On April 20, 1854, Judge Costs married Catharine P. Vastine, of Delaware County Ohio, daughter of John and Catharine (Hetrick) Vastine, who removed to Iowa in 1854, and remained until their deaths. By this marriage three children have been born, to wit: John Wilber (who died in 1872 in his eighteenth year), Frances D., born October 19, 1866, and Charles N., born June 8, 1861,

JOHN CODER, grocer, Marysville. The parents of John Coder were among the, earliest pilgrims of Ross County, Ohio, and all classified with the pioneers of York Township, Union County, where they settled in 1836. Simon, his father, was a native of Pennsylvania. and his mother, whose name was Jane Gault, was a Virginian. He was a blacksmith by trade, but cleared a farm in York and Taylor Townships. He is a resident of York Township at this time, and is in the ninety-second year of his age. His estimable wife died in May, 1848. They were

88 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

parents of eight children, five of whom art living. The subject of this sketch was born in Rose County October 81, 1827. He was raised on a farm, and learned the trade of his father, at which he worked, when he came to this city in 1856. He first opened a shop on Main street, and for twenty-six years applied himself diligently to his profession. In the spring of 1882, he opened to the public a choice stock of groceries in his present location, and enjoys the good will and trade of a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. Mr. Coder was married in December, 1847, to Miss Catherine Staley, a native of Greens County, Ohio. This union hits been blessed with four children, three of whom are living, viz.. Jennie, William F. and Charles O. Mr. Coder numbers among the oldest resident business men of the city. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the Order of Red Men and Methodist Episcopal Church.

DANIEL COE, deceased, was born in Washington County, Penn., March 3, 1801. When eleven years of age, his parents died, and he was brought to live with his brother in the West, the family living in Jefferson County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood. Here he met and married Miss Mary Gladden, a daughter of Joseph and Hannah (Munn) Gladden, who were pioneers of Jefferson County in 1795, where she (Mary) was born on January 18, 1804 This couple pioneered their march of settlement to Union County in 1834, and founded a home on the hanks of the Big Derby, where Mr. Coe passed the remainder of his days. His death is recorded January 17, 1851. He was a farmer and was highly esteemed. He was the father of twelve children, five of whom are living, viz.: Philip, Joseph, a resident of Massachusetts, entered the ranks of the Union army in 1861, in Company D, Thirteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as a private, and served through the battles in which that regiment engaged, and was promoted to First Lieutenant; Sarah, wife of J. W. Robinson ; Lizzie, who was married in February. 1855, to Dr. Swayne, a celebrated physician of this county, by whom she had four children-Isabella, Mary, deceased; Martha and John. Dr. Swayne died in 1863, and in September, 1867, she married L.. H. Smith, now a resident of Kansas, by which she has one child, Jennie; and Mary. wife R. Henderson. of Minneapolis, Minn. Mrs Coe moved to and occupied her residence at Marysville in 1854, and is now surrounded by the younger generation. She has thirty-seven grand-children and five great-grandchildren. She is in the enjoyment of good health and is now in the seventy-ninth year of her age. Daniel and Mary Coe were life-long members of the Presbyterian Church and among the oldest and most respected citizens.

EDWARD EVERETT COLE, attorney, Marysville, was born in Marysville, Ohio, March 17, 1863. He taught school in Milford Centre one term in the winter of 1870-71, and entered the sophomore class at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, in September, 1871. In the fall of 1872, he entered the junior class at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, sod graduated from that institution in 1874. In the same year he removed to H untington, Ind., where he was connected with the Indiana Herald as local editor for some time. He returned to Marysville in 1875, studied law with his father, Judge P. B. Cole, and was admitted to the bar February 18, 1876. Since that time he has practiced his profession at Marysville.

GEORGE COLMAN, the subject of this sketch, is one of the wealthiest and most influential Germans of Union County. He was born in Byrne, Germany, April 14, 1828, and is a son of John A. and Mary (Kreitline) Colman ; the former a native of Byrne, was born August 9. 1797, and the latter it native of Newburg, Germany, was horn March - - They emigrated to the United States in 1840 and settled in Darby Township, where Mr. Colman purchased a tract of woodland containing 160 acres. He, with his family, occupied it till his death, which occurred May, 1879. Mr. Colman, oar subject. is the fourth of a family of twelve children. He was reared to manhood on a farm, and acquired his education in the common schools of the day. which were by no means noted for their excellence. When of age he embarked in life for himself, working by the month at wages of $8 per month. He was employed as a month -laborer for seven years, at a salary ranging from $8 to $18 per month. At the expiration off his term he had saved of the fruits of his "hard and honest toil" $1,400. He invested in seventy-one acres of land, now forming a part of his home farm, on which he located in the latter part of 1855. His farm was in its original state, and no improvements had yet been made. Mr. Colman began the work of clearing and improving his farm. He made subsequent additions to the original purchase, till his home farm now embodies 600 acres, besides 375 acres located in Jerome Township. Mr. Colman is a representative of that thrifty class of Germans who had intelligence sod principle, and although he went to do for himself when a poor boy, by his ceaseless industry and energy he has acquired large and valuable property, now owning, in all, 975 acres of finely improved land. He is a man of honor and integrity, and his success in life has been honorably achieved. He displays an important interest in all public enterprises, and is considered one of like most successful farmers of Union County. He was married April 17, 1855, to Mary C. Miller, daughter of John and Rebecca Miller. Mrs. Colman, a native of Germany, was born in May, 1833. Of ten children by this union. seven are living, viz.: John A., William G., John H., John M., Lizzie, Mary, and Emanuel L. Barbara, Anna and an infant are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Colman are members of the Lutheran Church, and Mr. C. is in political affairs a Republican.

GEORGE W. COURT, retired, Marysville. George Court was born March 26, 1835, in Marion County, Ohio, where he was left with limited means and education, and only through his indomitable energy and frugality has made life a pronounced success. He was raised on a farm,

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PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 91

and in 1856 began learning the carpenter's trade, and teaching school during the he winter. In 1859, he entered upon the mercantile pursuit in which he was engaged until 1868, when he removed to Richwood, Union County. Here he became associated in business with T. P. Cratty, with whom he has since been more or less connected. Mr. Court engaged largely in building and improving property; erected several dwellings and storehouses in Richwood, and otherwise aided in the improvement and growth of the town. In 1877 he was elected County Treasurer, and the following year became a resident of this city. He pursued the hardware trade during the year 1881, since which time he has been dealing in real estate and landed property. He was married in Marion County, Ohio, in March, 1861, to Miss Eliza, daughter of Thomas Phillips, of

that county. Two children born to this issue are living, viz.: Minnie and Edward. Frederick Court, grandfather of George, was a native of Germany, who settled in Virginia in - Joseph, the father of this subject, was born near Harper's Ferry, Va. He was married in Marion County, Ohio, to Miss Maria Sherman, a native of Vermont. Frederick and family moved and

settled in Ross County, Ohio, in 1816, thence to Marion County, where he died in 1842. Joseph raised a family of nine children-six boys and three girls--all of whom are living, as follows. George, eldest; William, Sarah, Mary, Louisa, John, Joseph, Stephen and Frank.

OTWAY CURRY.

It is impossible, in this volume, to give an adequate sketch of Mr. Carry, for the thousamd particulars which might be included can only be dwelt upon in an extended account of his life, such am only he who is most intimately acquainted with his character and career is competent to prepare.

Otway Curry was born March 26, 1804, on the site of what is now Greenfield, Highland County, Ohio. and was the son of Col. James Curry, a veteran officer of the Revolution, who came with his family to the territory now included in Union County in 1811. Otway Carry was a pupil in the log schoolhouse near the home of his boyhood, and also received much instruction from his parents, of a higher order than that imparted by the half-educated teachers whose services were in demand among the pioneers-even though they performed a good work in their way. The father was summoned to Chillicothe, a member of the Legislature, in 1812; the eldest son went out with the army to do battle for his country, and the rest of the family remained upon the farm under the superintendence of the prudent and patriotic mother. Alone in the wilderness, surrounded by savages, they were never molested, though often alarmed. On one occasion their horses showed every indication of fear; their dogs barked furiously, now rushing into the cornfield, and then retreating with bristling hair, as if driven. The family, concluding that Indiana were near, prepared to fight as well as pray. The mother, in marshaling her forces, stationed young Otway and his brother Stephenson on guard, Otway at the house corner, and Stephenson at the bars, with loaded guns at a rest, and charged them to take aim and fire as soon as they saw an Indian. Fortunately, there was no attack made upon the domestic fort.

As the boy grow to man's estate, he read the small but choice collection of books in his father's library; and, before he came of age, he attended a select school in the neighborhood taught by Mr. C., a farmer of good education. In 1823, being determined to learn a trade, he went to Lebanon, Ohio, and there learned the art of carpentry. He was subsequently located a short time each at Cincinnati and Detroit, and later at Marion, Ohio. In company with Henry Mason, both possessed of a romantic nature, he made and launched a skiff at Millville, a small village on the Scioto River, and descended that stream to it its mouth, proceeding thence down the Ohio to Cincinnati. At the latter point he engaged passage for himself and a box of tools, on a flatboat, and voyaged slowly down the Ohio and Mississippi to Port Gibson, where he spent one year. About this time he summoned courage to offer anonymously some verses to the newspapers, among which were his sweet poems, "My Mother," and "Kingdom Come." His lines won for him admiration at the outset, and it never diminished in degree during all the subsequent years. Returning to Cincinnati, he contributed more freely to the press, over the signature of "Abdallah," and at this time formed the acquaintance of William D. Gallagher, who was induced to seek, upon perusal of his stanzas, "The Minstrel's Home." This acquaintance was improved by time, and unbroken by jealousy, envy, or serious misunderstanding.

On leaving Cincinnati, Mr. Curry returned to his father's house, in Union County, where he passed the winter of 1828-29, dividing his time between the muse and the young lady. Miss Mary Noteman, who was about to and did, in December, become his wife. In 1829, he again visited the South, and spent four or five months at Baton Rouge, contributing, meanwhile, poetical productions both to the Cincinnati Mirror and the Cincinnati Chronicle. Upon his return, he settled in Union County and engaged in agricultural pursuits, which he prosecuted with industry tiII1839. While on his farm, he courted the muses as opportunity offered, and issued some of his best verses from his rural home. He first appeared in public life in 1836, as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, to which he was re-elected in 1837 and 1842. While serving his lost term, he purchased the newspaper known as the Greene County Torch Light, and removed to Xenia; he changed the name of the paper to Xenia Torch Light, and conducted it in an able manDer for two years, when he sold out and returned to Marysville He had previously, in 1888,

92 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

associated himself with William D. Gallagher in the publication, at Columbus, of a literary monthly magazine called the Hesperian. It was of a high order, but not being adequately sustained, was discontinued at the end of the third volume.

Mr. Curry had studied law before his removal to Xenia, but had practiced little up to that time. He became master of his profession, and one of his ablest competitors said of him that, "although he entered the law late in life, and practiced it scarcely ten years, yet he had no superior as a sound lawyer, within the range of his practice, and bade fair, if his life had been spared a few years longer, to become an eminent legal mind." In 1850, he was elected a member of the second Ohio Constitutional Convention, and with manly firmness and dignity he resisted some of the principles of the Instrument which that able body elaborated. In 1858, he purchased the Scioto Gazette, a daily paper published at Chillicothe, whither he removed. He continued to edit this paper with characteristic ability about one year, at the expiration of which time, owing to the failing health of his wife, he sold out and returned to Marysville, where he resumed the practice of his profession. In January, 1854, he was President of the Ohio Editorial Convention, at Cincinnati, and made many friends among the members, who had before known him only by his writings. He became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1848, and continued in that relation until his death, which occurred February 16, 1855, after a severe illness of two weeks' duration. A well-known biographer (the late Bishop Thomson) wrote of him:

"Mr. Curry's name is without a spot. In early life he labored with his hands, in later years with his mind-always rendering either moral or material benefit for all that he received. When called to office, it was by unsolicited suffrages, and, when placed in power, he was no tool of party. No speeches for sinister ends, no motion for faction purposes, no empty declamations or busy demonstrations or crafty schemes disgraced his political career. Guided by a sense of duty to his country, he walked heedless alike of private threats and popular clamor. At the bar he was the shield of innocence, the terror of guilt and the moderator of Justice. Though liable, like other men, to be deceived by his client and influenced by his passions, he would not enforce what he deemed an unjust claim or prosecute a just one in an unjust mode. As an editor, he manifested the same integrity, though sorely tried. Once determined on his course, he stopped at no obstacles, heeded no persecution, and declined no conflict. He was, however, too modest, unambitious and averse to public life for a leader. He was a man of great social and domestic virtue. As a neighbor, he was considerate, peaceful, obliging and hospitable; looking with patience upon the weakness, and with silence upon the wrongs of others, he cherished no malignity, fomented no disputes, flattered no patron, and pierced no victim. Though not insensible to in meanness and injury, he was too respectful of himself and too charitable toward others to indulge in any utterances that would give pain, unless they were necessary to a prudent maintenance of right. He was as far from being a cynic as a parasite. * * I a his home he found a paradise. Thither his steps tended when the toils of the day were over ; there, among his little ones, he talked as a child, he thought as a child, he played as a child; there, too, he rejoiced with the wife of his youth, and found in her smiles a recompense for his labors and a refuge from his cares. He was a man of fervent and unostentatious piety, and he delighted in simplicity of worship. * * * * Mr. Curry's chief characteristic was his taste. His mind was in harmony with nature; he had a relish for all beauty. To him it was not in vain that God painted the landscape green, cast the channels of the streams in graceful curves, light ed up the arch of night, and turned the gates of the day on golden hinges amid the anthems of a grateful world. No thirst for wealth, no conflict for honor, no lust for meaner pleasures destroyed his sensibility to the harmonies and proportions of the universe. From a child, he was fond of nature and solitude; as he grew up poets were his companions; with them he sympathized; with them he sat, side by side, in the enchanted land of song; to see, to enjoy what the idle, the worldly and the profane cannot-this was not merely his pastime, but his living. A luxurious melancholy chastened his spirit and mellowed the light which it reflected. * * * * The love of beauty is usually associated with the capacity to reproduce it; that is taste, this is art. Mr. Curry's art was not proportionate to his taste ; it manifested itself in the sweet music of his flute and the sweeter strains of his verse ; the former is lost in the empty air, the latter will float down the river of time. His poetry will not be relished by the masses; it has no paeans of battle, no provocations of mirth, no mockery of misery, no strokes of malice. It is the song of a religious soul; faith is the bond which links its stanzas, a faith that brings heaven near to earth and man into fellowship with angels. Like wine, it will be pronounced better as it grows older; not because it will improve, but because the world's taste will. What he uttered we may suppose was little compared with what he bore away with 'him into heaven, where he will take up the harp that he laid down too early on earth."

Rebecca S. Nichols, herself a gifted poetess, and a friend of Mr. Curry, speaks thus us eloquently of him: "Within the holy fire of poesy burned clear and bright, refining the material man and lifting the more ethereal element of our twofold nature up to the realms of love and faith and peace, where the indwelling soul preludes the feast of immortal joys. No petty ambitions, no goading desires for name and fame among the great of earth ever soiled the bosom of our friend. To more quietly in his accustomed round of prescribed duties-to enjoy the communion of chosen and congenial minds-to yield himself up to the manifold enchantments of

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 93

inspiring nature-to utter in verse, smooth and musical as his favorite streams, the live thoughts of the passing moments, made up the sum of his daily happiness ; and if a shade of Badness, as of some secret 'and acknowledged sorrow, bordered the placid beauty of existence, it only added tenderness to the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and made them more eager to minister to his simple and unadulterated pleasures."

Mr. Curry was a man of fine form, tall and well proportioned, possessed a broad, lofty brow, and an open countenance. He wore no beard and was seen always in office and street freshly and cleanly shaven. His taste was unacceptionable in dress, in language, in reading, and, indeed in all things. He was extremely cautious and careful, both in his speech and his writings, and nothing from his pen was ever permitted to go to the press until it had first been scrutinized, word by word, for the sake of correctness and improvement. From this fact, the criticism which his poems will bear is easily explained. He was, in all respects, a man which any community could ill afford to lose, and the sorrow of his friends and relatives at his untimely taking away wag profuse and most sincere.

Mr. Curry was married December 17, 1828, in the identical great frame house in which Zachariah Noteman now lives, to Mary, daughter of Andrew Noteman, of Jerome Township, on Darby Creek. Miss Noteman, born August 13, 1806, was a very handsome woman, and was known far and near as the "Darby Beauty." She had large, lustrous, dark eyes, dark brown

hair, and was of a quiet, engaging disposition. She was for many Years a member of the Methodist Church, an unassuming Christian woman, and a devoted wife and mother. Her father, it is said, was opposed to the marriage, because of young Curry's too great fondness for books, and the improbability of his ever, in consequence, becoming a thrifty farmer. But the

old gentlemen soon became reconciled and was, until the day of his death, a devoted friend of his son-in-law. Soon after the marriage, he gave his daughter and her husband a fine farm on Darby Creek, adjoining Plain City, at present known as the Jones farm. Mrs. Curry died at Marysville, Ohio, April 21, 1856, following her husband to the old Marysville churchyard in

just one year two months and six days. By this marriage there was born to Mr. and Mrs. Curry but two children, a daughter and a son. The eldest. Mary Aletha, was born September 21, 1829, and the son, Llewellyn, November, 28, 1831. Mary was married at her father's house in Marysville, June 24, 1846, to William Cooper, merchant, of Xenia, Ohio (deceased in 1849). She died at her home in Marysville March 18, 1872. Llewellyn studied law with his father and Hon. J. W. Robinson, and in the year 1857 he removed to Chicago, where, as successively lawyer, journalist and broker, he has since resided.

The following are some of Mr. Curry's choicest poems:

TO MY MOTHER.

My mother! though in darkness now

The slumber of the grave is passed,

Its gloom will soon be o'er, and thou

Wilt break away at last,

And dwell where neither grief nor pain

Can ever reach thy heart again.

Sleep on-the cold and heavy hand

Of death has stilled thy gentle breast;

No rude sound of this stormy land

Shall mar thy peaceful rest:

Undying guardians round thee close,

To count the years of thy repose.

A day of the far years will break

On every sea and every shore,

In whose bright morning thou shalt wake

And rise, to sleep no more-

No more to molder in the gloom

And coldness of the dreary tomb.

I saw thy fleeting life decay,

Even as a frail and withering flower,

And vainly strove to while away

Its swiftly closing hour :

It came, with many a thronging thought

Of anguish ne'er again forgot.

In life's proud dreams I have no part,

No share in its resounding glee;

The musings of my weary heart

Are in the grave with thee.

There have been bitter tears of mine

Above that lowly bed of thine.

94 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

It Seems to my fond memory now,

As it had been but yesterday,

When I was but a child, and thou

Didst cheer me in my play;

And in the evenings, still and lone,

Didst lull me with thy music-tone.

And when the twilight hours begun,

And shning constellations came,

Thou bad'st me know each nightly sun,

And con its ancient name;

For thou had'st learned their lore and light

With watchings in the tranquil night.

And then, when leaning on thy knee,

I saw them in their grandeur rise,

It was a joy, in Booth, to me

But now the starry skies

Seem holier grown and doubly fair,

Since thou art with the angels there.

The stream of life, with hurrying flow,

Its course may bear me swiftly thro'

I grieve not, for I soon Shall go,

And by thy side renew

The love which here for thee I bore,

And never leave thy presence more.

THE BLOSSOMS OF LIFE.

Life is like a sweeping river,

Ceaseless in its seaward flow-

On whose waves quick sunbeams quiver,

On whose banks sweet blossoms grow-

Blossoms quick to grow and perish;

Swift to bloom and swift to fall;

Those we earliest learn to cherish

Soonest pass beyond recall.

Shall we lose them all forever?

Leave them on this iiarthly strand?

Shall their joyous radiance never

Reach us in the spirit land?

Soon the tide of life up-flowing

Buoyantly from time's dim shore,

Where supernal flowers are growing,

Shall meander ever more,

There the hopes that long have told us

Of the climes beyond the tomb,

While superber skies enfold us,

Shall renew their starry bloom.

And the bloom that here in sadness

Faded from the flowers of love,

Shall with its immortal gladness

Crown us in the world above.

AUTUMN MUSINGS.

'Tis autumn. Many and many a fleeting age

Hath faded since the primal morn of Time;

And silently the slowly journeying years,

All redolent of countless seasons. pass.

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 95

The spring-time wakes in beauty, and is fraught

With power to thrill the leaping pulse of joy,

And urge the footsteps of ideal hope

With Flowery lightness on. In peerless day

Resplendent summer garlandeth the world;

And contemplation through her sky serene

Ascends unwearied, emulous to lead,

To marshal, and to proudly panoply

The votaries of ambition as they rise.

These, with their gilded pageants, disappear,

And vestal Truth leads on the silent hours

Of autumn's lonely reign. The weary plea

Creep o'er the waters, and the sun-brown plain

Oft whispering as they pass a long farewell

To the frail emblems of the waning year,

The drooping foliage, and the dying leaves.

This is the time for care; to break the spell

Of ever-fading fancy; to contrast

The evanescent beams of earthly bliss

With the long, dread array of deepening ill.

The ills of life are twofold those which fall

With lead-like weight upon the mortal clay

Are transient in their kind; for the frail dust

Erelong shall blend with the innumerous sands,

And atoms of the boundless universe,

Absorbed in the unfelt, unconscious rest

Of lifeless, soulless matter, without change.

Save when the far-off period shall arrive

Of shadowy nothingness.

The deadlier ills

That tinge existence with unbroken gloom

Are lost to melioration, for they hold

The ever-during spirit in their grasp,

And in their kind a withering permanence.

To linger in unrest- to be endowed

With high aspiring, endless, limitless!

On thought's unshackled pinions to outride

The air-borne eagles of the Appennines;

To pierce the surging depths of endless space;

To revel in the stalwart fervidness

Of its careering formal to sweep sublime

Through the far regions of immensity,

Then fall astounded front the dreaming height,

And wake in wildering durance: these are thin

That well may dim the sleepless eyes of care.

And thou, too, Friendship, pilgrim-child of heaven!

The balm that brings the spirit sweet relief

From the keen stings of sorrow and despair,

'Tie thine to give; yet the deep quietude

Of the bereaving tomb bath shrouded oft

The morning prime of beings formed for thee.

THE GREAT HEREAFTER.

'Tie sweet to think, when struggling

The goal of life to win,

That just beyond the shores of time

The better days begin.

When through the nameless ages

I cast my longing eyes,

Before me, like a boundless sea,

The Great Hereafter lies.

Along its brimming bosom

Perpetual summer smiles

And gathers like a golden robe,

Around the emerald isles.

96 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

There in the long blue distance,

By lulling breezes fanned,

I seem to see the flowering groves

Of old Beulah's land.

And far beyond the islands

That gem the wave serene,

The image of the cloudless shore

Of holy Heaven is seen.

Unto the Great Hereafter

Aforetime dim and dark

I freely now, and gladly, give

Of life the wandering bark.

And in the far-off haven,

When shadowy seas are passed,

By angel hands its quivering sails

Shall all be furled at last.

THE CLOSING YEAR.

The year has reached its evening time,

And well its closing gloom

May warn us of the lonely night

That gathers round the tomb.

But many a distant year and age

May slowly come and go,

Before the sleepers of the grave

Another spring-time know.

And yet, beyond the gloomy Yale,

Where death's dark river flows,

On sunniest shores our faith is fixed

Our deathless hopes repose.

We trust that when the night of time

Shall into morning break,

We shall, from long and heavy sleep,

With song and gladness wake.

THE TIME TO DIE.

Part not when the sleepers wake

At the young day's glimmering break

Part not in the golden light

When the early morn is bright,

And the mist-clouds dark and dim

All around thee sweep and swim ;

Through the radiance of the dawn

Let thy spirit linger on.

Part not in the fervid noon,

When the worlds where, swift and soon,

Thou with plumy wing shalt stray,

Seem so far, so fallen away.

Part not in the balmy eve,

When the passing sunbeams leave

Wavering crimson all around,

And the free wind's lulling sound

And the tones of human mirth

Bind thee to the homes of earth.

Rest thee, till the light and power

Of the waning twilight hour

Leave thee, girt with shadows dread

Gathering darkness round thee spread.

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 97

Linger till the stars outshine,

With their long and silent line,

Winding up the solemn sky,

To the zenith steep and high;

Then along the fearful track

Let thy spirit wander back,

Where the times eternal came,

Ages without end or name.

Muse upon the millions vast

Of the unremembered past-

Older than the hills their birth,

Changing with the changing earth;

Countless host succeeding host,

Order after order lost;

Planted in existence bright,

On the verge of endless night,

In this flickering life of pain

But a moment to remain;

Hurrying to eternal sleep

In their rocky mansions deep.

Muse upon the coming time,

When the ancient hills sublime

Shall be desolate and sere,

And the seas shall disappear.

All shall be one mighty tomb,

In whose overwhelming gloom

Every form of life shall bow;

And of all that greet thee now,

Many a loved and loving one,

Not a whisper, not a tone,

On the wave or on the shore,

Shall be heard, forevermore.

Musing in the feeble light

Of the still and starry night,

Soon shall thy sad spirit yearn

For the time to part, and turn

From the shadowy things of naught

To the land of life, thy thought

From the things of lowly dust

To the far-off Heaven, thy trust.

Then upon the closing eye

Heavy shall the midnight lie

Then shall be the hour of doom;

Gird thee for its fear and gloom

Calmly from thy cumbering clay

In the silence pass away.

It is said by one who saw Mr. Curry dying, that his dissolution Wes even as described in the last lines of the above poem-calmly and in the silence his spirit left the cumbering clay and the poet's heart was still.

The following "Fourth of July Ode" was written by Otway Curry,* and was first song at a celebration held at Bigelow's Grove, Pleasant Valley, Madison County, Ohio, July 4, 1833, under the leadership of Nelson Cone. The same gentleman led in singing it forty-five years later--September 27, 1878, at a re-union of the Curry family on Mr. Cone's farm in Jerome Township:

God of the high and boundless heaven,

We call upon Thy name;

We tread the soil that Thou beat given

To freedom and to fame.

Around us, on the ocean waves,

Our starry banners sweep ;

Around us, in their lowly groves,

Our patriot fathers sleep.

*The song as here given is found in The Hesperian for July, 1838.

102 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

With fearless hearts and stalwart hands,

They bore their eagles high

O'er serried arms and battle brands,

Careering in the sky;

For freedom, in her darkest day,

Their life-blood bathed the plain;

Their moldering tombs may pass away,

Their glories shall remain.

God of the free! Thy children bless,

With joy their labor crown;

Let their domain be limitless,

And endless their renown.

Proclaim the morn of freedom's birth

O'er every land and sea,

Till her pure spirit from the earth,

Even as the heavens are free.

THE GOINGS FORTH OF GOD.

God walketh on the earth. The purling rills

And mightier streams before Him glance away,

Rejoicing in His presence. On the plains

And spangled fields, and in the mazy vales,

The living throngs of earth before him fall

With thankful hymns, receiving from His hand

Immortal life and gladness. Clothed upon

With burning crowns the mountain-heralds stand,

Proclaiming to the blooming wilderness

The brightness of His coming, and the power

Of Him who ever liveth, all in all I

God walketh on the ocean. Brilliantly

The glassy waters mirror back His smiles,

The surging billows and the gamboling storms

Come crouching to His feet. The hoary deep

And the green, gorgeous islands offer up

The tribute of their treasures-pearls and shells

And crown-like drapery of the dashing foam.

And solemnly the tesselated hills,

And coral domes of mansions in the depths,

And gardens of the golden sanded sea,

B'end, with the anthems of the chiming waves,

Their alleluias unto Him who rules

The invisible armies of eternity.

God journeyeth in the sky. From sun to sun,

From star to star, the living lightnings flash,

And pealing thunders through all space proclaim

The goings forth of Him whose potent arm

Perpetuates existence, or destroys

From depths unknown, unsearchable, profound,

Forth rush the wandering comets: girt with flames

They blend, in order true, with marshaling hosts

Of starry worshipers. The unhallowed orbs

Of earth-born fire, that cleave the hazy air,

Blanched by the flood of uncreated light,

Fly with the fleeting winds and misty clouds

Back to their homes, and deep in darkness lie.

God journeyeth in the heavens. Refulgent stars,

And glittering crowns of prostrate Seraphim

Emboss His burning path. Around Him fall

Dread powers, dominions, hosts and kingly thrones.

Angels of God-adoring millions--join

With spirits pure, redeemed from distant worlds,

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Page 100 Picture of LeRoy Decker

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 101

In choral songs of praise: "Thee we adore,

For Thou art mighty. Everlasting spheres

Of light and glory in Thy presence wait.

Time, space, life, light, dominion, majesty,

Truth, wisdom--all are thine, Jehovah I Thou

First, last, supreme, eternal Potentate I"

The following is the famous "Log Cabin Song." written by Mr. Carry in 1840, and sung at the great Columbus Convention, on the 22d of February, in that year; tune, " Highland Laddie:"

Oh, where, tell me where, was your buckeye cabin made?

Oh, where, tell me where, was your buckeye cabin made?

'Twas built among the merry boys that wield the plow and spade,

Where the log cabins stand in the bonnie buckeye shade.

'Twas built, etc.

Oh, what, tell me what, is to be your cabin's fate?

Oh, what, tell me what, is to be your cabin's fate ?

We'll wheel it to the Capital, and place it there elate,

For a token and a sign of the bonnie Buckeye State.

We'll wheel, etc.

Oh, why, tell we why, does your buckeye cabin go?

Oh, why, tell me why, does your buckeye cabin go?

It goes against the spoilsmen, for well its builders know

It was Harrison that fought for the cabins long ago.

It goes, etc.

Oh, who fell before him in battle, tell me who?

Oh, who fell before him in battle, tell me who?

He drove the savage legions, and British armies, too,

At the Rapids and the Thames, and old Tippecanoe.

He drove, etc.

By whom, tell me whom, will the battle next be won?

By whom, tell me whom, will the battle next be won?

The spoilemen and leg-treasurers will soon begin to ran,

And the log - cabin candidate will march to Washington.

The spoilsmen, etc.

O what, tell me what, then, will little Martin do?

O what, tell me what, then, will little Martin do?

He'll "follow in the footsteps " of Price and Swartwout, too,

While the log-cabins ring spin with Tippecanoe.

He'll follow, etc.

Calvin W. McLain, of Jacksonville, Ill.. in a letter, dated January 81, 1888, mentioning the foregoing popular song, and the moving of the campaign log cabin from Marysville to Columbus, says:

"I was then but fifteen years old, and of course cannot give as good & history as one who passed through it at mature age. The first I knew of the song, 'O where, tell me where was your buckeye cabin made,' was a short time before the Columbus Convention of February 22, 1840, in my father's* office in the court house at Marysville; he was then County Auditor I think. Otway Curry had written the song, and he had his flute playing, and my father singing. There may have been others present, I cannot say; at any rate, that was the first rehearsal, and they were all wild over it. I was then the printer's devil for the paper called Our Freedom, and at once secured a copy of the song, went to work printing it, and was the first to put it in type and print it without help. The log cabin was then being built; I cannot recollect about the dedication speeches, etc. When the start was made for Columbus, it was before daybreak. I had not obtained permission to go, but secreted myself in one corner of the cabin until we were well out of town, and then showed my his bundle of the song; consent was given me to go. In addition to yourself, I believe one of the Winget boys was along, but think he did not go through. Well I remember the muddy and toilsome drive until we struck the pike near Jefferson ; then all was excitement in that cabin, preparing. for the first grand entry. There we met the delegation from the west, and the town was full of people to remain overnight. The song was sung as we drove through the streets to the hotel, and there was a rush of people from every direction. On

* Stephen McLain.

102 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

arriving at the hotel the crowd closed in on us and demanded the song again; once more was not enough, it had to be repeated, and each verse was followed by such shouts as roused the country round about. This first public rendering of the song I cannot better describe than by telling the experience of a relative of mine from near Urbana. He was a stanch Presbyterian of the Scottish type. He told me afterward that at this time, while we were singing the song, he was approaching the town on his way to Columbus; he heard these shouts at intervals, and, as he rode along, came to the conclusion that his party (he was a strong Whig) was going crazy, and he then and there decided that he would not take any part, or in any manner have anything to do with such wild operations. But he approached slowly, and arrived in time to bear the last verse, when he joined with the crowd an I yelled as loudly, threw his hat as high, and out as many antics as any one; farther than that, he did not stop it nor sober down until he got home again. As for myself, in looking back over forty-three years, I have made music a study in all conditions of society -social, religious, political and nation al - and have engaged wit It a thousand soldier voices in 'Shouting the battle-cry of Freedom,' during the war, but have never seen anything to excel the effect produced by this song.

"After the song was finished the second time, everybody wanted a copy of it. I was seated in front with the driver, and handed out my bill songs; my hands were cold and numb; I could not handle the money as it rolled in, but by the assistance of all on board, in a short time the songs were all gone, and until late at night I was in demand to teach the tune to the purchasers. At Jefferson we met another log cabin, I think from Springfield, Ohio, but, it had been built after ours. I claim that the Marysville cabin was the first built for that campaign. I was in the printing office at the time and had access to all the exchanges, and this fact was impressed on my memory. The next day on to Columbus, the Springfield party singing the questions, and the Marysville cabin boys the replies. I cannot describe the scenes at Columbus; suffice it to say that by the time we got there every one of the party was on the roof of the cabin. Crowds swayed from street to street to hear that song again; when the procession was over, the jam around us was so great it was impossible to move, and sing we had to as long as there was anybody on board. We finally wound up by driving in front of the Statesman office; the first verse brought Sam Medary to the window, when we gave him some items for his next issue. Several printing offices published and sold the song. The State Journal office, learning I was the first typo, gave me free all the songs I could saki, and my pockets were well filled when I got home. I cannot now recollect the persons who composed the party, except Mr. Curry and my father. One more incident and I am done: Some years ago, while visiting at Urbana, Ohio, I called at Ab Jennings', then living there, but since moved to Springfield, Ohio, While talking with Mrs. Jennings about Marysville, she excitedly arose and left the room; she soon returned with a flute in her hand, and with a flourish announced, 'that is the identical flute used by Otway Curry in playing while your father sang the log cabin song!' Of course I did reverence it.

Yours truly, CALVIN W. McLAIN."

COL. W. L. CURRY, Auditor of Union County, was born on the old Curry homestead in Jerome Township, June 25, 1839. He is the third son of Stephenson and Sarah D. Curry, and a grandson of Col. James Curry, whose history is given elsewhere in this -work. His early life was passed on his father's farm, his education being acquired in the common schools a and in the Marysville Academy, and Otterbein University, at Westerville. At the age of eighteen years he engaged in the profession of teaching, which he followed during the winter seasons of four years. On April 24, 1861, in response to the country's first call for volunteers, he enlisted in a company for the first three months' service that was not mustered into service, as the "three years' call " was issued before the company was recruited to the required number. On September 8, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and in October, 1861, was appointed Orderly Sergeant of his company. His regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, and after serving on scouting duty in Kentucky during the winter of 1861, they marched with Gen. Thomas' army to Pittsburgh Landing, in April, 1862, and participated in the siege of Corinth. On June 16, 1862, Sergt. Curry was commissioned Second Lieutenant, and on March 3, 1863, was promoted to First Lieutenant of his company. The next engagement in which he took part was at Booneville, Mississippi, followed by Courtland, Alabama, where he was taken prisoner. He was exchanged in February, 1863, returned to his regiment and took command of his company and participated in the campaign of Gen. Rosencrans' army, from Murfreesboro to Tullahoma and on to Chattanooga. In August, 1863, he was assigned to the command of Company M, and fought at Alpine and Lafayette, Ga., and at Chickamauga. He commanded this company on the famous raid of the rebel cavalry chieftain Gen. Wheeler through Tennessee, in the rear of Rosencrans' army, in October, 1863, and fought at McMinville, Murfreesboro, Shelbyville, Farmington and Mussel Shoals, Ala. Lieut. Curry and his company re-enlisted as veterans at Pulaski, Tenn., January 4, 1864, and after We veteran furlough of thirty days had expired, he joined Sherman's army, early in the spring of 1864, and fought at Moulton, Ala., Peachtree Creek, Noon-day Creek, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, and in Kilpatrick's daring raid around the Confederate army in Atlanta, August, 1864. In September, 1864, he was appointed Quartermaster of his regiment, and when Sherman started on his march to the sea, the First Ohio Cavalry marched with the army of Gen. Thomas to Tennessee to intercept Hood, and from there to

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 103

Louisville, Ky., to mount and equip. On December 14, 1864, Lieut. Curry was promoted to the rank of Captain. A few days after his arrival at Louisville, he was violently thrown from his horse and received injuries from which he has never recovered and on account of which he was discharged at Nashville, Tenn., December 30, 1864. Returning home he engaged in merchandising in New California, and in 1869, removed to Plain City, where he was engaged in the same business two years. In 1871, he removed to Richwood, where he was engaged in the drug trade until his election to the office of County Auditor, in October, 1875. He is now serving his third term as Auditor of Union County. He takes an active interest in everything pertaining to military matters, is considered the best authority on military law and history, and devotes a great deal of time to the interests of his comrades, in matters of pensions, bounties and other interests. He is now serving as commander of Ransom Reed Post, Grand Army of the Republic. He served for five years as Lieutenant Colonel of the Fourteenth Regiment Ohio National Guards. Col. Curry is a Republican in politics and always takes an active interest in the affairs of his party and in all political matters. He was married, December 21, 1865, to Martha J. Robinson, daughter of J. D. Robinson, of Jerome Township. She was born in Jerome Township April 12, 1843. Three children have been given to bless this union, of whom two are living-Ivaloo and Lucile. Mr. and Mrs. Curry are members of the Presbyterian Church at Marysville.

JAMES CURRY, fourth son of Stephenson and Sarah D. Curry, was born in Jerome Township, Union County, Ohio, January 4, 1842. he followed farming until February 6, 1865, when he enlisted and served one year in Company B, One Hundred and Eighty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Gen. Steadman, in Georgia. Resumed farming: for one year, and in April, 1867, began his collegiate course at Vermillion Institute, Hayesville, Ohio, where he delivered an oration at the triennial reunion of old students, August, 1869. He entered the junior class of the University of Wooster, Ohio, in the spring of 1871, this being the first year of its existence, from which he graduated September 18, 1872, with the degree of A. B., and in 1875, he received - the degree of A. M. from the same institution. He was chosen professor of mathematics in Vermillion Institute previous to graduation from the university, and served in that capacity as teacher of Latin and Greek from April, 1872, to June, 1873. He was married to Miss Maggie A. Sloan, of Hayesville, Ohio, September 30, 1873, and went to California to attend the San Francisco Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church. He was licensed to preach by the Presbytery of San Francisco, March 18, 1874, graduated from the seminary April 29. 1875, and received a call to become pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Carson City, Nev., which he declined, to continue in mission work at San Pablo and West Berkeley, Cal. Under his ministrations a church was gathered up and organized in each place. He was ordained to the gospel ministry and installed pastor of the church at San Pablo, August 28, 1876, while a beautiful house of worship was erected at West Berkeley in 1879. He was elected President of the Alumni Association of the San Francisco Theological Seminary at its organization October, 1880, and was twice re-elected, and delivered the first alumni and decennial oration of the seminary in San Francisco, April, 1881. He resigned his pastorate at San Pablo, February 1, 1883, to concentrate his labors at West Berkeley. At the present time (February, 1883,) he resides in West Berkeley, Cal., is in charge of the Presbyterian Church there, and Moderator of the Presbytery of San Francisco.

N. P. DAVIDSON, physician, Marysville, was born in Perry County, Ohio, October 10, 1849. He is the third son of Nicholas and Strait (Linn) Davidson. He was reared on a farm in his native place till fifteen years of age, when he left home to do for himself. He spent one summer working by the month in Pickaway County, then went to Clay County, Illinois, where he remained till 1872. He taught school, of winters for four years, working on the farm during the summer. In the fall of 1872 he returned to Ohio, and entered the National Normal School at Lebanon, in which he remained as a student two years. He resumed teaching and followed it in Warren, Fairfield and Hooking Counties, three years. He read medicine under Dr. G. W. Dawson of Gibsonville, Hooking County, finishing his course in 1877. He attended the Columbus Medical College, graduating February 24,1882. In 1877-78, he practiced with his preceptor in medicine, and in 1879 began the practice at Oakland, Fairfield County, where he continued until the fall of 1881. In March, 1882, he established himself in Marysville, when he is practicing his profession with success. On February 23, 1877, he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Shepherd, daughter of William and Jenette Shepherd, and a native of Xenia, Ohio. Dr. Davidson and lady are associated with the Presbyterian Church of Marysville. Dr. D. is a member of the Union County Medical Association, and Examining Surgeon for the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company. He had been a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity for twelve years, having joined Clay City, Illinois Lodge in 1871.

LE ROY DECKER, jeweler, Marysville. This enterprising character, with J. B. Cross, established business in this city in 1874, under the firm name of Decker & Cross. This copartnership dissolved the following year and Mr. Decker succeeding, became sole proprietor of the concern. He carries a stock comprising choice selections, in diamonds, watches, clocks, silverware and a full line of jewelery in valuable and artistic designs. He certainly displays fine and judicious judgment in his purchases, buying almost exclusively from the manufacturers. Therefore he is enabled to present to the public a line of goods, equal to any establishment of our larger cities.

104 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

Marysville may well feel proud of this class of enterprise, and the purchaser or visitor will &Iways meet with a pleasant and hearty welcome from its generous and social proprietor. The subject of this sketch whose portrait appears in this volume, emanates from the Buckeye State, and was born in Delaware County, Ohio, in 1845. His father, Frederick Decker, was a native of New Jersey, who, with his family, occupied an early settlement in Bucyrus. Crawford County, Ohio, and was distinguished as a pioneer and mechanic. He was a millwright by occupation, and erected one of the first mills in Bucyrus. Ohio. Subsequently he removed to Delaware County, Ohio, where he erected several mills which stand to-day as monuments to his enterprise and. mechanical abilities. For the past twenty-five years he has been engaged in farming, and is at this time, August, 1882, residing on the homestead near Millville, Delaware County. He retains the ownership of the Millville Mill an edifice of his construction located near the homestead. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary A. Munson, wait born in Now Jersey, and joined her husband in his success and sorrows until death called her from its scenes. Her demise occurred in Delaware County, in 1855. She was a Christian lady, a fond mother and devoted wife. Le Roy Decker was reared on a farm and was taught to toil with his hands. In 1863, he joined the boys in blue in Company D, One Hundred and Forty-fifth 0. N. G., and served four months in the field. The regiment was stationed at Arlington Heights performing duty at Forts Craig and Tillinghast. Returning to peaceful pursuits, he was married July 4, 1865, to Miss Maria L. Winget, a native of Delaware County, and's daughter of W. C. Winget, with whom he subsequently became associated in the mercantile trade at Ostrander. This connection dissolved nine years later, during which time Mr. D. learned the jewelry trade with Spencer Lincoln, of Delaware, after which he further pursued his studies in the wholesale house of G. T. Dorlin, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and became a thorough student and master of his profession. Mr. D. is a member of the Blue Lodge and Chapter in the Masonic fraternity of this city, and the Raper Commandery, No. 19, of Urbana Ohio. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. His living children are Ella A. and Edith M.

DAVID EDWARDS, book-keeper, Marysville, is the eldest son of Jesse P. and Abrilla 'Stephens) Edwards, both natives of Bedford County, Penn., who came to Ohio in 1847, and selected a home in Licking County, where they resided until 1861, when they moved and settled in Jerome Township, Union County, where they yet remain. The subject of this sketch was born in Bedford County, Penn., September 16, 1836. He received his primary education in the schools of Clyde, Sandusky County, completing his education at the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, and for two years prior to the Rebellion taught school in Licking County. In the spring of 1861, he further pursued his studies in the National Normal School at Lebanon, and the following year taught school at that place. In the summer of 1862, he came to this city, and in August enlisted as First Sergeant in Company K, Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the first engagement against Vicksburg, under Sherman, and at Arkansas Post, January 11, 1863. The following spring he was discharged at Jefferson Barracks, near St. Louis, on account of disability. Returning to peaceful pursuits, he was appointed Assistant Assessor of Internal Revenue, under C. S. Hamilton, and discharged the duties of that office two years, at which time he was appointed Postmaster. In this position he served two years, and resigned. Subsequently he became associated as assistant agent of the C., C., C.. and I. R. R., and became General Agent and Express Agent, July 1, 1872. This avocation he followed owed for ten years, and in July, 1881, he engaged as book-keeper for the Butter Tub Factory, in whose employ he is at this time engaged. Mr. Edwards has served on the School Board two terms, and also in the City Council. He ran on the Independent ticket for Clerk, in 1881, and is a citizen well known and highly esteemed. He was married in 1864 to Miss Lucinda, a daughter of Oliver Brooks, a native of Licking County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with four children, three of whom are living, viz.: Dwight B., Orra. H. and Arthur H. Mr. Edwards is a member of the Masonic order, the G. A. R., and connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, he is a Republican.

JOHN S. FLECK, of the firm of Fleck & Chapman, planing-mill, Marysville, is a son of John and Mary (Abrams) Fleck, both natives of Cumberland County, Penn., who settled in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1833. The following year he moved and entered upon a mercantile pursuit at Carrollton, Ohio. In the spring of 1842, he purchased and settled upon a farm in Jerome Township, Union County, which at that time was mostly wooded. Here he industriously worked in clearing the land and plying his trade, shoe-making. He was an energetic man, and a citizen widely known and esteemed. He lost his wife by death in 1858. His demise is recorded in 1872. The subject of this sketch was born in Cumberland County, Penn., January 4,1827. He became a citizen of Marysville in the fall of 1844, and engaged as an apprentice at the carpenter's trade with Samuel Restler. Three years after he took contracts for building, and entered largely upon the work of his profession. In 1876, he formed the above copartnership, and the firm erected the mill where they have since carried on a large and successful trade in the manufacture of sash, doors and building material. The building covers four lots and has a frontage on Main street of 264 feet. It is fully stocked with lumber, and the house employs from fifteen to twenty men. This firm began business with a capital of $2,500 each, and the sales for year 1881 were $45,000. The estimate for 1882 is $60,000. Mr. Fleck was married in 1849, to Miss

PARIS TOWNSHIP. - 105

Anna Rose, a native of Lancaster County, Penn., by whom he has three children, all living, viz.: Mary F., Edwin and Charles H.

GEORGE A. FOX, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1824. He, with his step-father, William Boerger, and his wife, Elizabeth, emigrated to this country in 1844. Andrew Fox, father of this subject, died before he (George) was born. He sought employment at Columbus, Ohio, where he became engaged and learned the trade of a bricklayer. This avocation he diligently pursued until 1853, when he moved to this county, and two years afterward purchased his present estate, consisting of seventy-two and three-fourths acres, thirty-three sores of which he in the limits of the corporation. He also has another farm of 133 acres in Paris Township, most of which is under cultivation. He was united in marriage April 1, 1850, with a daughter of Adam Kuhlman, of this county. Five children born to this union are living, as follows: Emanuel, George W., John L., Nettie M. and Frederick C. Mr. Fleck served in the ranks of the United States Army in 1847, during the war with Mexico, enlisting in Company B. of the Fourth Ohio Infantry, serving until its close, in 1848. He is a Trustee of the Lutheran Church of this city, and a min whose success in life has been marked by energy, economy and unremitting attention to business.

GEORGE EMANUEL FOX, contractor and builder, Marysville, Ohio, was born in Darby Township, this county, November 6, 1851, and is a son of George A. and Susanna Kuhlman Fox, natives of Bavaria, Germany, who came to America in 1844 and 1840, respectively. George is the eldest of five children-four sons and one daughter. He removed with his parents to near Marysville in 1854, from Columbus, Ohio, to which place they went soon after his birth. At the age of thirteen, he began learning the trade of masonry and bricklaying, and, seven years later; went to Columbus, in which place and others he followed his trade ten years, and then returned to Marysville. He is an efficient workman, and as monuments to his skill we mention the City Hall, Robinson Building, German Church, Tribune Building, Gunderman Building and a number of elegant private residences. He also built school buildings at the following places: Woodstock, Milford Centre, and Irwin Station. He was married January 24, 1876 to Miss Josephine. daughter of Andrew and Margaret Burger, who has borne him four children, viz., Carrie, Nettie, Katie and Mary. Mrs. Fox was born March 19, 1853. Both are members of the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Fox affiliates with the Democratic party and is a member of the City Council.

GEORGE W. FOX, Chief of Fire Department, Marysville, was born in Paris Township March 20, 1855, and is a brother of George E. Fox, whose sketch appears in this work. He was reared to farm pursuits until eighteen years of age. at which time he began learning masonry and brick laying with his father, with whom he served three years. He was afterward connected with his brother in the same business three years, and assisted in the erection of the buildings spoken of in George E.'s sketch. He has been a member of the city fire department since 1878, and was elected its chief in April, 1880, and re-elected in 1882. He was married January 17, 1878, to Barbara, daughter of George and Mary Geier, by whom he has had two children, viz., Mary and George William. Both Mr. and Mrs Fox are exemplary members of the German Lutheran Church, and are socially esteemed by their many friends and acquaintances. Mrs. F. was born at Columbus, Ohio, in 1855.

WESLEY GARRARD, merchant, Marysville. This establishment was opened to the public by its present proprietor, November 19, 1858, at that time located in a building on the present site of the Farmers' Bank. This institution gained notoriety, and became widely known as the Buck-horn Store, by the sign of the horns over the door. The took consists of groceries, hardware and notions in fact any article not to be found elsewhere, from a wooden toothpick to an anvil, may be had at Garrard's. He purchased the premises of his present location, which he occupied in 1872. His stock is complete, and his trade solid and substantial. Mr. Garrard is a native of Harmony Township, Clark Co., Ohio, where he was born June 9, 1839; he is the only child of Joseph and Lucy (Allen) Garrard, the former a son of Jacob Garrard, a native of Pennsylvania, and a pioneer of Clark County. He afterward moved to Madison County, where he died. The maternal grandparent, Elijah Allen, was a native of Virginia, a soldier in the war of 1812, and among the pioneers of Madison County. The parents of our subject moved with the family to this city, where he, Joseph, lived to the close of his life, November 23, 1880. He was a social, genial, warm-hearted, home-loving man, who left a host of friends to mourn his loss. The wife and mother, who survives, is in the sixty-seventh year of her age. Mr. Garrard has been elected Justice of the Peace several terms, and will serve until April, 1884. He was Mayor of this city six years, and is serving the second term on the School Board at the present time, July, 1882, also serving the third year as School Trustee, and is an honored member of the Masonic order. His marriage to Miss Dorcas Cheney, of Jackson Township, Union County, was celebrated in 1859. Three children born to this union are all living, viz., Frank H., Pearl C. and Clyde E.

SAMUEL G. GILCRIST, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, February 1, 1837. He is a son of Thomas C. and Eleanor (Guthrie) Gilcrist, the former a native of Brooke County, W., Va., and the latter of Harrison County, Ohio; his father was born August 1, 1812; his parents, William and Jane (Smith) Gilcrist, were among the earliest settlers

106 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY.

of Belmont County; they removed to Greene County about 1840, where they both died. Thomas C. Gilcrist married Ellen Guthrie, who bore him eight children, viz.-Samuel G., the subject of this sketch; William S.; Austin; Adalaide, wife of William A. Hollenback; Elizabeth J., wife of B. F. James; Robert A.; Mary R., wife of Nathan Hollenback, and Thomas F. Mr. and Mrs. Gilcrist resided in Harrison and Greene Counties till 1855, when they located in Mill Creek Township, this county, and the following year removed to Bureau County, Ill., where Mrs.. G. died January 14, 1862. Samuel G. our subject, was reared to manhood by his parents, and was educated in the common schools and high schools of Princeton, Ill.; he followed teaching, of winters, for ten years; in 1862 he removed to Marshall County, Ill., and in 1865 returned to Union County and located on the farm that he now occupies. His marriage occured September 9, 1862, with Miss Elizabeth Longbrake, a daughter of Levi Longbrake, one of the wealthiest citizens of Union County. Mrs. Gilcrist was born in Paris Township, September 30, 1844. Four children were the fruits of this union-Franklin M., born April 22, 1865; Levi L., born February 14, 1868; Ellen G., born May 13, 1872, and Samuel S., born August 8, 1878. Mr. Gilcrist owns a productive and well improved farm of 226 acres. He is engaged in the pursuits of agriculture and rearing fine stock, and ranks as one of the successful farmers of the county. He and wife are associated with the Disciples' Church, and are also connected with the Grange, with which Mr. Gilcrist has been prominently identified since its organization. He is now serving the fourth year as Master and has also filled various other offices of that Order. He is a member of the Board of Township Trustees, and in politics is Republican.

MICHAEL GUNDERMAN, farmer, P. O. Marysville, was born in Germany, April 13,1826; at the age of ten years his parents, George P. and Sophia Gunderman, emigrated to America and settled in Hamilton, Ohio, where they resided till 1840 and removed to Union County. Mr. Gunderman died in Marysville June 16, 1868, and Mrs. G., December, 1876. Michael is the eldest