G. M. Cummins, M. D., is a typical Ohioan and physician and has good reason to congratulate himself on the State of his birth, for it has been kind to him, although not beyond the measure of his deserts. He was born at Hamilton in 1876 and received his early education in the schools of Butler county, later attending country schools in Indiana, to which state his parents removed when he was a child. Graduating from high school in 1896, he prosecuted his medical studies at the Medical college of Ohio, and was graduated therefrom with his degree in 1900, the first several months of his practice being at Dayton. In November of the same year he established an office at Hamilton, and, through his able qualities as a physician and his stable, popular traits as a man, has continued his progress both in the development of a professional reputation and a profitable medical business. Doctor Cummins married Mary Clyne, and they are the parents of one son: George C. Since leaving college., Doctor Cummins has been a close student and has done much post-graduate work. He belongs to the Butler
County Medical, the Ohio State Medical, and the Union District Medical societies and also to the American Medical association, and for several years served as president of the county organization. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias. He possesses a fine library embracing both medical and general literature, and personally is a cultured, energetic, able and progressive physician and gentleman.
Mrs. Mary Cummins. Among other claims upon the consideration of her fellow townspeople Mrs. Mary Cummins presents that of being one of the financially strong and the socially popular element of Middletown where the greater part of her life has been spent, and where she is known as one of the most intelligent, well informed and tactful residents of the city. She is the widow of the late Garrett Cummins who was born on the homestead place of the Cummins family, on Franklin road, not far from Middletown, in 1850. Mr. Cummins was one of the highly respected farmers of his day and passed his life in operations on the homestead, which is a tract of 155 acres secured from the United States Government by the Van Ness family. There were six children in the family: William and Gertrude, who are deceased; Georgia, who is the wife of George Joslyn, of Youngstown, Ohio; Dr. L. C., a practicing dentist of Cincinnati; Minnie, who is the wife of Chris Bielstein of Youngstown. Mrs. Mary Cummins is the possessor of the deed to the property on which she now lives, dated 1798, and in which year it was entered by Garrett Van Ness. Gen. William Henry Harrison (later President), was a guest of Van Ness and camped with his troops on this historic place, the present home of Mrs. Cummins.
Mrs. Cummins is a. familiar figure in the religious and social life of the vicinity of Middletown, being a welcome guest at many local functions. She has some very valuable historical treasures, among: which .are numbered a mahogany highboy used in the first hotel in Cincinnati; a highboy made by General Marks in 1774, and which now looks almost like new; a mahogany secretary which was floated down the Ohio river and up the Miami on a log raft to her home; a History of the Miami and Erie Canal; a Gilbert Stuart portrait of a Knickerbocker Dutchman; a portrait of an old man painted by Beard nearly one hundred years ago; a deed on a grant for a New Jersey plantation written on sheepskin dated 1732 and 1735, bearing the royal signature of George II of England, and on which George Washington camped, and is now the site of Princeton College; deed for home signed by President Madison; English mezzotint treated so as to appear an oil painting, given by Nicholas Longworth, Sr.; badge worn at President, Harrison's inaugural dinner, satin, 2 by 6 inches, with Harrison�s portrait and cabin; satin badge 2 by 6 inches, worn at Dayton Barbecue day, where the Republican party was was born; an imported silken shawl listed at a fair many years ago as being one hundred and thirty-five years ago and still in a beautiful state of preservation; knee buckle worn by Stephen Hopkins while signing the Declaration of Independence; a signer�s copy of the Declaration of Independence, almost fallen to pieces and yellow age; a wine glass used by Washington;
peculiar earrings nearly two hundred years old; a paper announcing the death of Andrew Jackson; party invitations nearly one hundred years old; real colonial glassware; and a tapestry bed spread with the date 1832 woven in the corner. She also possesses oil portraits of great historic value. One is of Colonel Hendrickson, a step-grandfather of Garrett Cummins, a delegate to the National Convention which nominated William Henry Harrison for the presidency, and himself the man who presented the General's name before that distinguished body. Another is of William Cummins, who was of old Revolutionary stock; and still another of John McCracken, a paper maker by trade, and builder of the first paper mill in the United States, which was located in Cove Gap in the Cumberland mountains, the entire Gap property being owned by the McCrackens. Water power was used in the operation of this mill and slave labor was employed, the product being made by hand. When the Mason and Dixon line was definitely established and determined, the slaves were freed and the mill was converted into a flour mill. John McCracken was a journalist, and as a schoolmate of James Buchanan became his lifelong friend. Through his journalistic efforts he was largely instrumental in securing the presidential nomination for Buchanan and was likewise active in the work which resulted in his election.
Miss Jessie Cummins, daughter of Mrs. Cummins and a graduate of her home town high school and of Virginia college, is a young lady very much interested in church work, being a member of the Baptist church of Middletown of which she has been librarian and also secretary of the mission work, and for her faithful attendance has received diplomas and other prizes. Another of Mrs. Cummins' daughters, Minnie, is now Mrs. Bielstein and lives at Youngstown, Ohio. She is a graduate of the Middletown high school and Miami University, at which institution she was prominent in athletics, excelling in indoor baseball. She is also a graduate of Virginia college. Her husband is deputy sheriff of his county, and they have one daughter, Helen Van Ness. Georgia, another daughter of Mrs. Cummins, also lives in Youngstown, and is the wife of Mr. George Joslyn. They have two children, Thomas and Garrett.
Harry H. Cunningham. Nearly a century has rolled around since the first settlement of the Cunningham family in Ohio, and during that time its members have been leading citizens and prosperous agriculturists of Butler county. Of the men who worthily represent this name today, one who has made a success of his operations is Harry H. Cunningham, of Wayne township. Mr. Cunningham was born in this township, January 2, 1880, a son of Andrew and Sarah Jane (Weaver) Cunningham. The founder of the family in the United States was the great-grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham, Samuel F. Cunningham, who was born in Ireland in 1770, and came from Conway, Ireland, to America about the year 1795, locating at Trenton, N. J. He was there married in 1800 to Mary Smith, and took up his residence near Trenton, N. J. In 1820 he came to Trenton, Butler county, Ohio, where he passed the rest of his life in farming. He was the father of six children: James;
Robert, who went to Illinois; George, who settled at Pittsburg, Pa.; and three daughters. James Cunningham, the grandfather of Harry, went, in about 1860, to Illinois, where he passed the rest of his life as an agriculturist and died in 1891 at the age of eighty-eight years. July 28, 1829, he married Ruth Smith, who was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1801, and died in Wayne township, Butler county, in 1854. She was a daughter of James Smith, born in 1763 in Cumberland county, Pa., who settled at the mouth of Four Mile creek, in St. Clair township, Butler county, and died in 1834. James and Ruth (Smith) Cunningham were the parents of six children: William, born in 1830; Elizabeth, born in 1831; Isabella, born in 1833; James, born in 1834; Andrew, born in 1836; and David K., born in 1838. Andrew Cunningham, the father of Harry H., was born near Seven Mile, on the banks of Cotton Run creek, Butler county, October 3, 1836. He was married May 6, 1860, to Sarah Jane Weaver, who was born near Jacksonboro, Ohio, in 1842. Following their union they settled in Wayne township, where they passed the remainder of their lives, Mrs. Cunningham passing away in 1884 and her husband in 1914, and both being buried at Elk creek. They were the parents of the following children: Mary M., Martin W., Esther, Sarah E., John A., William J., Harry H. and Edith. The history of the Weaver family in America is a long and honorable one. The direct immigrant ancestor of Harry H. Cunningham on his mother's side was Frederick Weaver, who came from Germany and in 1730, lived in Lower Sancon township, Northampton county, Va. He was a member of the Lutheran congregation and the Weavers in direct descent from him were of the Lutheran faith, up to and including the grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham. Frederick Weaver had five children: Jacob; George; Michael, the ancestor of Mr. Cunningham; and two daughters, one of whom married Arnold Everhart. Eight of the grandchildren of Frederick Weaver fought as soldiers of the Revolution, and most of them were in the service under Gen. George Washington. The record of one of these patriots, Jacob Weaver, is as follows: Jacob Weaver, Northampton county, Pa., ensign 3d Pennsylvania Battalion, April 22, 1776; taken prisoner at Fort Washington, November, 16, 1776; exchanged December 12, 1776; was retained as captain of company to rank of independent company, January 13, 1777; annexed to the 10th Pennsylvania, November 7, 1777; retired in January, 1781. About 1750 Michael Weaver married Catherine Snyder, a native of the same county, and they had six children: John; Henry; Michael; Philip, the great-grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham; a daughter who married Thomas Coochis and settled at Darrtown, Ohio, in 1805; and a daughter who married Mr. Landis, and whose descendants are still found numerously in Butler county. Philip Weaver, the great-grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham, was born in Northampton county, Pa., in 1765, and died in 1835. He was married August 11,1787, to Catherine Hush, who was born in 1767, in Northumberland county, Pa., and died in 1845, in Butler county. They were the parents of four children, Henry, Michael, Catherine and John, all born in Pennsylvania, and all dying in Butler county,
Ohio, and were buried in Elk Creek cemetery, which has been used as a burial place by this family for over a century and is still the resting place of the younger descendants. The order of births and deaths follow: Henry and Michael were born in Lancaster, Lancaster county, Pa., the former born in 1789, and died in 1875. The latter was born in 1792, and died in 1813. Catherine was born in 1795, about ten miles north of Doylestown, Bucks county, Pa., and died in Butler county in 1865. Catherine Weaver married Samuel Snyder, of Madison township, Butler county, Ohio. Philip Weaver, Mr. Cunningham's great-grandfather, was a drummer boy during the Revolutionary war, under General Washington, when he was but twelve years of age. By the close of the struggle, however, he was able to bear arms, and subsequently received a pension for the services which he rendered as a soldier of the line. In 1808 Philip Weaver and his family migrated from eastern Northampton county, Pa., over the Alleghany mountains in the old-fashioned way, by wagon to Pittsburg. There the family and household goods were placed on one raft and the livestock on another and thus the little party and its worldly effects traveled down the Ohio river to Cincinnati. They then followed the Miami river as far north as Hamilton, and in 1809 settled on a farm in Wayne township. Henry Weaver, of the above family, served in the War of 1812. After the surrender of Hull the whole country was in a state of commotion and the necessary troops to keep up the defenses of the western frontier were drafted, among the men thus chosen for service being Henry Weaver. His time was originally set for sixty days, but he was out only twenty-six days, under General Winchester, at Fort Defiance, when he was relieved. John Weaver, the grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham, was born ten miles north of Doylestown, Bucks county, Pa., and ten miles south of the Weaver homestead, located in Lower Sancon township, Northampton county, Pa., in 1799, and died in Butler county, in 1880. He was married October 14, 1824, to Esther Clark, who was born near Trenton, N. J., in 1805, and died in 1873. They became the parents of five sons and five daughters: Jacob, born in 1825, who died in infancy; Catherine, born in 1826; Elizabeth, born in 1829; Mary Ann, born in 1831; Henry, born in 1833; Philip, born in 1835; John C., born in 1837; Martin, born in 1840; Sarah Jane, born in 1842; and Eliza Ellen. Of these children, Sarah Jane Weaver married Andrew Cunningham, and their eight children were as follows: Mary Ann, born in 1861, who is deceased; Martin W., born in 1863; Esther, born in 1867, who is deceased; Sarah E., born in 1870; John A., born in 1873; William J., born in 1876; Harry H., born in 1880; and Edith, born in 1882. Harry H. Cunningham received a common school education in Wayne township and worked on the home farm, being identified therewith until 1916, when he came to his present property in Wayne township. This is a tract of seventy-eight acres, which he has put under a high state of cultivation and in the management and operation of which Mr. Cunningham has shown himself a capable and industrious agriculturist. The manner in which he has conducted his business transactions has created a
favorable impression upon his associates and his standing is correspondingly high in commercial circles. With the members of his family he, holds membership in the Presbyterian church and has always faithfully discharged the obligations and responsibilities of citizenship, and during the war period was a generous contributor to all activities. Mr. Cunningham married Eleanor May, daughter of William Rush, of Henry county, Ohio, November 18, 1909, and to this union there have come two children: Fay, born October 22, 1910, who died in infancy; and Floyd, born in Henry county, Ohio, February 4, 1913.
Elmer D. Curryer. Since entering upon his active career as a Butler county agriculturist and land owner, Elmer D. Curryer has lent dignity and stability to his vocation, and thus has maintained and even added to the excellent reputation gained by the members of his family here. He is accounted one of the men of ability and resource who have made the most of their opportunities, and thus stands high in public opinion in Lemon township, where his property is located. Mr. Curryer was born on the old homestead, a part of which he now occupies, section 10, Lemon township, February 5, 1877, a son of Ira H. Curryer, a native of Shelby county, O., and a grandson of Daniel Curryer, also of that county. Ira H. Curryer came to Butler county as a young man, settling near Bethany, where he was married to Mary Ann Wyckoff, of Middletown. After their marriage they settled on the old Wyckoff place for one year and then moved to section 10, Lemon township, where they passed the remainder of their lives, the mother dying in November, 1906, aged sixty-six years, while the father passed away in January, 1911, aged sixty-eight years. Mr. Curryer erected a new residence and remodeled the barn, in addition to which he made many other valuable improvements. He was a breeder of Poland China hogs, Shorthorn cattle and a good grade of horses, and was considered a good judge of all kinds of live stock, as well as a business man of superior ability and sound integrity. In politics a staunch Democrat, he served on the election board, the school board and in township offices, and his public record was an excellent one. With his family, he attended the Presbyterian church at Blue Ball. Mr. and Mrs. Curryer were the parents of six children: Clara, who married George McLandless, of Indianapolis, Ind.; Nellie, the widow of Charles Harkrader, of Monroe, Ohio; Lulu, who married Judge Walter S. Harlan, of Hamilton; Elmer D.; Edith, who is single and resides at Hamilton; and Roy C., of Middletown, who married Mayme Barker. Elmer D. Curryer attended the public schools of Butler county, and after a preparatory course., with the expectation of following a professional career, entered the State university as a dental student. However, after one and one-half years, his health failed, and he was advised by his physician to return to the farm, a course which he forthwith pursued. He continued in business with his father until the elder man's death, at which time he bought fifty acres of the homestead, which he now has in a high state of cultivation. In addition to carrying on a general farming business, he is engaged extensively and successfully in the breeding of Holstein
cattle, Chester White hogs and Belgian Draft horses and in each department of his work, has shown thorough knowledge of the vocation to which he has dedicated his career. Like his father he is a man of the strictest integrity, and his reputation is an excellent one in commercial transactions. March 29, 1911, Mr. Curryer was united in marriage with Bertha May Compton, of Lemon township, a daughter of William Compton, a sketch of whose career will be found elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Curryer have had one son, William Compton, who died in infancy. Mrs. Curryer is a member of the United Presbyterian church at Monroe., and her husband is a supporter of religious movements. He is a Mason, belonging to Blue Lodge, No. 90, at Middletown, and Mrs. Curryer is identified with several ladies' fraternal and social societies. In politics Mr. Curryer is a Democrat, and has served as a member of the election board, as well as showing his interest in civic and public affairs in other ways.
Samuel O. Danner. Employed as a rougher at the American Rolling Mill company's plant since his arrival at Middletown, Samuel O. Danner has worked his way into the good graces of his company through industry and faithful performance of the duties of his position, and at the same time has gained the confidence and good will of a large number of the members of the army of workers who form the integral human cogs in this mighty industrial machine. Mr. Danner is a native of the city of Muncie, Ind., and was born March 4, 1875, a son of Thomas and Charlotte (George) Danner. His father, who was for many years an Indiana agriculturist, fought as a soldier during the Civil war, fighting for the Union as a member of an Indiana volunteer infantry regiment. After the war he returned to farming, but eventually became a foreman in rolling mills and was thus employed for a period of seventeen years. He finally retired on a well-earned competence, and he and his wife are now surrounded by every comfort in the evening of life. They have been the parents of six children: Samuel O., of this review; John J., a resident of Muncie, Ind.; Rose, who is the wife of Albert Bailey, of Middletown; William Danner; Mrs. Wm. Miles, and Mrs. Melvina Watkins, whose husband died during the influenza epidemic during the fall of 1918. Samuel O. Danner was reared on the home farm and received his training and education in an agricultural community, but the tilling of the soil did not appeal to him as a vocation in life, and he accordingly joined his father in working in the rolling mills. For some years he was employed at various places, but eventually located at Middletown, where he became a rougher in the rolling mills of the American Rolling Mill company, and has since been so employed. He is a steady and reliable workman and one who enjoys the respect of his employers and the friendship of his fellow workmen. Mr. Danner, some time after coming to Middletown, erected a comfortable and attractive home on Eleventh street, where he and his family reside in the midst of every modern comfort. Mr. Danner is a Baptist, and exercises his right of franchise as a supporter of the principles and candidates of the Republican party. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Knights of
Pythias, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Knights of the Maccabees, in all of which he is deservedly popular. September 26, 1903, he was united in matrimony with Daisy Langston, born February 9, 1881, at Indianapolis, Ind., a daughter of William and Jennie (Lomax) Langston, English people who are still living at the Indiana metropolis. There were four children in the Langston family: Mrs. Danner; Mrs. Ralph H. Zellar, of Franklin, Ohio; William, of Ludington, Mich.; and Myrtle, deceased, who was the wife of William George. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Danner, namely: Harold O., Donald, Thomas Arthur, Helen Virginia, Paul Eugene, and Ruth Jeanette. Mr. Langston, like Mr. Danner the elder, fought as a soldier of the Union during the dark days of the struggle between the forces of the North and South.
Almond Davis, deceased, was born in Union township, Butler county, Oho, September 27, 1854, the son of Almond, sr., and Maria (Herr) Davis. Almond Davis was born in Vermont, son of Moody and Rebecca (Morgan) Davis. Moody Davis came with his family across the river in St. Clair township, where for a long time he operated a mill. Almond Davis, sr., lived in Liberty township, where he followed the vocation of a farmer. There were seven children in the family: Almond, jr., subject of this sketch; Elizabeth, Mrs. Elliott, now in Liberty township; Moody, in Liberty township; Mary, Mrs. Hughes; Joseph, in Milford township; Harry, in Liberty township, and Edward, deceased. Almond, jr., our subject, after completing the educational course provided through the district schools, entered upon his life work as a farmer. He was married in 1878, to Jennie Kerr, daughter of William and Salome (Heck) Kerr. William Kerr was a son of William and Emma (Ball) Kerr. William Kerr, sr., was born in Butler county, and was of Irish descent. Salome Heck, wife of William Kerr, jr., was the daughter of Jonas and Magdalena (Buck). He came from Pennsylvania and settled in Madison township, and Magdalena Buck was born in Madison township. Aaron Kerr, brother of William Kerr, was a soldier in the Civil war. After their marriage, William Kerr and his wife Salome lived in Madison township, and to them were born seven children: Jonas, now living in Cincinnati; Jennie, wife of the subject of this sketch; Eunice, Mrs. Young, Cleveland, Ohio; John, Hamilton, Ohio; Charles, Portsmouth, Ohio; Salome, unmarried, Louisville, Ky.; Ollie, Mrs. Sherman, Trenton, Ohio. The parents are buried in Miltonville cemetery. After their marriage, Almond, our subject, and his wife lived in Fairfield township, Butler county, Ohio, on the farm purchased by his father from Luther Hughes. Throughout his entire life he followed the vocation of farming. To Mr. and Mrs. Davis were born three children; Truman, who married Emma Tuley and is the father of five children - Clarabelle, John, Helen, Warren, Rebecca - lives in Union township; Mary, unmarried; Charles. The death of Mr. Davis occurred November 11, 1916. In life, he was an industrious, careful man, and through his good management and well-directed efforts, a very desirable and profitable farm of 158 acres was left to Mrs. Davis, on which the family continues to make their home. Members of the family
have taken much part in the special efforts made in behalf of the Red Cross, Victory Loan drives, and the other war activities. Their long residence in the county has brought to them a very large circle of acquaintances and friends. The denominational affiliation of the family is with the Christian church.
Dunham Davis, a prominent farmer of Oxford township, was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, March 30, 1856. He is the son of Joshua and Elizabeth Davis. Joshua Davis was a native of New Jersey; his wife, Elizabeth, a native of Hamilton county, Ohio. Joshua Davis, came to Butler county in 1863 and located in Oxford. Here he built a business block which was a great improvement to the town at that time. He then retired and lived in Oxford until the time of his death, which occurred in 1884. His wife died in 1906. They were the parents of twelve children, five of whom are now living: Harriette, Catherine, Phoebe, Joshua and Dunham, the subject of this sketch. Dunham Davis received his education in Oxford. After leaving school he engaged in farming, retiling a farm from his father for three years. He then moved to Oxford and established a livery business where he remained but a short time. Desiring to return to farm life, he located on a farm of sixty-one acres in section 35, Oxford township, which he afterwards bought and where he now resides. He is a firm believer in fine-blooded stock, specializing in thoroughbred Duroc Jersey hogs and high grade horses. He has always taken an active interest in the affairs of his community, having been president of the Oxford township school board for thirteen years and is now township trustee, which office he has held for eight years. Mr. Davis was married in 1876 to Ella S. Rumple, daughter of William and Mary (Carr) Rumple. Three children were born to this union: Donald, Elizabeth, and William, now deceased. Donald answered the call of his country in the great World war, serving in the 324th Heavy Field Artillery, and seeing six months' service overseas.
Moody Davis. One of the best known and most esteemed of the retired farmers of Liberty township, Butler county, Ohio, is Moody Davis. He comes from a family of agriculturists and from the outset of his career demonstrated that he was of the type which is bound to succeed. Realizing that the young man who applies himself diligently and conscientiously can work his way to the top and become an influential figure in agriculture the same as in any other line of human endeavor he determined to follow in the footsteps of his father. Endowed with farseeing vision and of unquestioned honesty he soon became known as one of the promising young agriculturists of his community and his neighbors were pleased with his success. Although he has given up active farming after a long and useful career he still manifests much interest in affairs pertaining to the farm and his knowledge of intricate phases of planting, etc., is such that his counsel is frequently sought by his neighbors. His parents were among the early settlers of Butler county and located in that section when the extensive cultivated fields of today were vast prairies. Almond and Maria (Herr) Davis, the parents, were not only among the old settlers of Butler county,
but they were also among the most highly esteemed in that community. The father was known as a man whose friendship was to be prized, as his loyalty to his neighbors was such that he would undergo the most trying sacrifice in order to promote the well-being of his fellowmen. He was a native of Vermont and possessed the characteristic vigor and assertiveness of the typical New Englander. He migrated to Butler county when a young man and was married there. After marriage he and his wife moved to Warren county, Ohio, and remained there about five years, in the meantime Moody having been born. The longing for Butler county with its decided advantages as an agricultural section was such that the couple returned there, locating in Liberty township, where both lived on a farm until death. He passed away in 1883 and his wife died in 1906. To this couple seven children were born, four of whom are now living: Harry, Elizabeth, Moody and Joseph. Harry, who married Elizabeth Jacobs and has four children, Gordon, Joseph, Fred and Alice, makes his home with Moody; Elizabeth is the wife of J. Corwin Elliott and Joseph married Lena Kopp. The name of Davis has been inseparably associated with some of the most important movements of the early days which had for their purpose the development of the agricultural prestige of Butler county. It is but natural that the children should seek to perpetuate the estimable distinction achieved by their parents for doing things. Moody Davis for many years before his retirement was recognized as a man of much initiative and energy, who was revered as a neighbor and admired for his high character. He has always been a firm believer in the agricultural future of Butler county, and despite the fact that on numerous occasions he had opportunities to locate elsewhere he could not be induced to give up his residence in Liberty township. Although he has never taken active interest in politics he has been identified with undertakings that had for their purpose the promotion of the best interests of his community.
Truman Davis. Farming, in all its branches, has been considered an excellent line of business since the beginning of civilization, but it has only been in comparatively recent years that it has been developed to a state of perfection and has taken its proper place among the occupations followed by mankind. In the present day of progress and enlightenment, the farmers are operating along scientific lines, and one in Butler county who has recognized the value accruing through the following of modern methods and the use of improved inventions is Truman Davis, the owner of a valuable and well-improved property in Union township, Mr. Davis was born in this township, May 22, 1878, a son of Almond and Jennie (Kerr) Davis, both of this county. The father, a member of an old family, spent his entire life as an agriculturist in Butler county, where he owned 160 acres of land, and died highly esteemed and respected. A complete review of his career and the history of the Davis family will be found elsewhere in this work in the sketch of Moody Davis. Of the children born to Almond and Jennie Davis, one is deceased, and Mary and Truman survive. Truman Davis received his education in a country school in Butler county, and secured his
introduction to agricultural methods under the excellent preceptorship of his father. Later, after renting some land for a time, he was married and at that time began operations on a rented tract of 135 acres in Fairfield township, on which he made his home for four years, subsequently going to Liberty township, where he rented 160 acres for six years. During his residence in that township he served as a member of the board of township trustees. In 1914, Mr. Davis came to Union township and purchased the old Pocock farm, of 240 acres, on which he has since made numerous improvements. He engages in general farming, feeds from seventy-five to 150 hogs each year, and also handles a good grade of cattle, and in each direction has been successful in his efforts. He is a man of progressive ideas and great industry, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of the people in the community in which his pleasant home is located. Since coming to Union township he has served competently as a member of the board of school directors. Politically he is inclined to be a Democrat, but has independent ideas which keep him from being a radical. Mr. Davis married Emma, daughter of John S. and. Laura Tuley, and they are the parents of five children: Clarabelle, John A., Helen, Warren T., and Lillian Rebecca.
James T. Davison, who, with his wife, owns a beautiful farm of 104 acres lying in Union township, Butler county, is a native of this township but has not spent all his life here. His birth took place May 10, 1863, son of John and Sarah (Carr) Davison. In early life the father was a farmer in Butler county, but when James T. was six years old he moved to St. Paul, Ind., where he found profitable work for a time in a stone quarry, but later returned to agricultural pursuits and was a farmer in Rush county, Ind., during the remainder of his life. Of his family of eight children there are six living: James T. being the only one in Butler county. He enjoyed public school advantages in Rush county, Ind., and began life there as a farmhand, subsequently renting land for ten years in Rush county, at the end of that period embarking in the lumber business. For sixteen years Mr. Davison continued to be interested in lumber, in 1900 coming back to his native county, where he has resided ever since and where he is now engaged in farming. In 1913, he married Anna, daughter of Fred and Nancy (Lemon) Wicke, who were prominent people in Union township for many years, the father of Mrs. Davison being a man of substantial fortune and a leader in public affairs in Union township. Mr. and Mrs. Davison are well known and highly esteemed. They are members of the Presbyterian church of West Chester. Although Mr. Davison has never accepted any political office for himself he loyally supports his friends when they believe, as he does, in the principles of the old Democratic party.
John C. Day. In the death of John C. Day, which occurred April 8, 1915, Butler county lost one of its public-spirited citizens, a man whose life had been an exemplary one, and who by his honest and upright manner had won the respect and esteem of all who knew him. Mr. Day was for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits in Ross township, where he left his descendants the heritage
of an honored name, as well as material property that represented years of honest and industrious labor. He was born at Bevistown, Hamilton county, Ohio, May 23, 1861, a son of George and Anna (Fried) Day, natives of Germany. The parents were married in the land of their nativity, shortly after which they emigrated to the United States and settled in Hamilton county, where they passed the rest of their lives in the pursuits of agriculture and were well and familiarly known to the people of their community as honest, God-fearing people. They were the parents of the following children: John C.; Henry, Joseph and Louis, residents of Hamilton county; August, of Dayton, Ky., Anna, of Hamilton county, who married Chris Weber, and Helena, the wife of Henry Listerman, also of Hamilton county. John C. Day attended the public school at Bevistown and remained at home assisting his father until his marriage, October 12, 1884, to Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Lammat) Martin, natives of Germany and early residents of near Cincinnati, who passed the later years of their lives in agricultural operations in Hamilton county and were people well known and greatly respected. In the Martin family there were born the following children: Jacob, who is deceased; George., who makes his home with his sister, Mrs. Day; Barbara, the wife of Henry Schaefer; Christiana, who married Michael Kneppel; Catherine, who became the wife of Anthony Huber; Mary, who married Henry Kettleman; Philomena, deceased; Elizabeth, who became Mrs. Day; and Joseph. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Day settled on a farm in Morgan township, where they made their home for four years, and then came to Ross township took up a property on the Millville pike, from which they moved to the present Day farm, formerly the Bachmann place, a tract of 336 acres. Here Mr. Day continued successfully as a farmer and cattle raiser until his death. Mr. Day was a good farmer, a kind friend and an excellent citizen. He was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic church and made his religion his daily companion, being at all times ready to assist the sick or distressed. Kind and charitable to all, he was greatly missed, and his sorrowing family was the recipient of many messages of condolence from those who had known and admired him. In politics a Democrat, he did not seek office, although he answered the call of citizenship and acted ably as supervisor and in other township capacities. He and his wife were the parents of fifteen children: Catherine, who married Anthony Roth and resides at Lindenwald, Ohio; Aloysius, of Hamilton, who married Frances Staarman and has two children, Paul and Margaret; Eleanora, who married John Mayberry, of near Shandon, and has four children, Herman, Andrew, Marcella and Joseph; Leona, who is deceased; Emma, Cletus, Edward, Theresa, Mathilda, Mello, Leo, Hilda, Dorothy; Bertha, who died when five years of age; and Ralph. Mrs. Day, who survives her husband, still resides on the home farm, and is highly esteemed in her locality, where, during her long residence, she had drawn unto herself many lasting friendships.
David H. De Armond. A prominent and energetic figure in the business world of Hamilton during the past twenty years, David
H. De Armond is widely known in the real estate field as well as to the automobile trade. In both of his business connections he has met with unqualified success, and in his daily activities has demonstrated the possession of splendid business qualifications. Mr. De Armond was born on a farm in the southwestern part of Morgan township, Butler county, O., a son of Joseph De Armond. His paternal grandfather was King De Armond, one of the notable characters of the early days of Butler county, whence he came in 1823 from Western Pennsylvania. He took up a tract of land in the woods, cleared the timber by infinite labor, and finally succeeded in the establishing of a home, where he lived peacefully and quietly until the gold strike in California caused thousands of hopeful men from every part of the world to make the trip to the Golden State in quest of the precious metal. King De Armond was one of those to make the rush, but soon discovered that fortunes were not to be picked up by all and decided to return to his farm. On the return journey cholera broke out on shipboard, he fell a victim, died, and was buried at sea. He married Nancy Loyd of Pennsylvania, who ded at Shelbyville, Ind., and they became the parents of four children; King, who met his death in a gold mine accident in Idaho, in 1870; Joseph, the father of David H.; Elizabeth and Priscilla. All are now deceased. Joseph De Armond received his education in the home schools and also took a course in medicine, with the original intention of entering that profession as a practitioner, but was dissuaded from his object and instead of a professional life led an agricultural one. He passed his entire career on a farm in Morgan township, was an industrious, thrifty and successful farmer, and won the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens. His death occurred in 1895, while his widow survived until 1917. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the parents of the following children: John H., who was on the police force of Hamilton for many years and is now a United States Government guard; David H.; Evelyn, who married Charles Falkenstein, of Hamilton, O.; William, who is an automobile mechanician of Hamilton; James A., a resident of Chicago, and conductor on the Michigan Air Line Railroad; Emmasetta, who is the wife of Alex De Armond, in partnership in the automobile business with David H. De Armond at Hamilton; Alfred, who died in 1893; and Clyde, who died February 17, 1917. David H. De Armond attended the public graded and high schools, and entered upon his career as a school teacher. For six years he was engaged in molding the minds of the rural youths, and then gave up the profession of educator to accept employment in the business world as a traveling salesman for the Jersey Packing company, of Hamilton, his territory being in the western states. During this time he had his attention brought to the opportunities to be found in the real estate business, and began experimenting in a small way. Early successes encouraged him to further investments, and eventually he decided to turn his entire attention and abilities to this business. Accordingly, in 1902, he embarked in the business in partnership with Jo Williams, and they continued together until 1918, with offices in the Rentschler
building. They have been very successful in handling city and farm property, and have been the medium through which some large deals have been consummated. In 1918 the firm of Williams and De Armond was dissolved, Mr. De Armond forming a partnership with C. B. Thompson, of Hamilton, Ohio, under the firm name of De Armond & Thompson, with offices at 513-514 Rentschler building. The new firm met with phenomenal success from the beginning of its existence and is rated one of the most enterprising in Hamilton. In 1909, realizing the trend of affairs in regard to the use of the automobile, Mr. De Armond founded the Central Motor Company of Hamilton, and this was incorporated in the following year, with these officers: David H. De Armond, president; James A. Cox, vice-president and treasurer; and Frank Welsh, secretary. Later, Mr. Cox disposed of his interests and H. C. Snively succeeded him as vice-president and treasurer. In 1919 Mr. Snively disposed of his holding to Alex De Armond and Frank Welsh, who together with Mr. D. H. De Armond now control this enterprising and successful concern. This company conducts a selling agency for motor cars and trucks, maintains a service station, and handles Buick cars and Master trucks. In addition to being one of his city's prominent business men, Mr. De Armond has also been prominent in public affairs and active in politics. He is a staunch Democrat and on that ticket was elected clerk of the council one term and director of public safety two terms. He is personally popular with a wide circle of friends and enjoys the companionship of his fellows, being a life member of the Elks lodge No. 93 and the Knights of Pythias No. 39. Mr. De Armond married Miss Maude Heilman, of Preble county, O. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.
John Peter Deitsch, the owner of a ninety-eight acre farm in Ross township, Butler county, Ohio, is one of the many highly productive farmers of this township. This property, formerly owned by his father, is considered one of the most desirable of its acreage in the township, as the soil is of the best and every consideration appears to be in its favor. Mr. Deitsch has had the greatest degree of success during the years that he has operated the farm and considering his past achievements the future could not be more reassuring. Born in Butler county, September 6, 1867, he was the oldest of three children of Peter and Frances (Zettler) Deitsch, the other two being Frank, deceased, and Frances. The father was a native of France and the mother came to Ohio from Germany, and during their long residence in Butler county were highly esteemed by their neighbors. After their marriage in Hamilton they settled on a farm in Ross township and were devout members of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic church of Hamilton. John Peter was educated in the grammar schools and also St. Joseph's parochial school at Hamilton, and was possessed of the vigor and stamina so characteristic of the farmer boy which has placed him among the influential agriculturists of Butler county. He married Miss Louisa Ast, daughter of Andrew and Mary (Kramer) Ast, who were widely and favorably known throughout Butler county. The other children besides Louisa were - Anna, Nellie, Carrie, Mamie, John and Jacob. The
members of this family were devout Roman Catholics. After their marriage Mr. Deitsch and wife moved to the farm in Ross township, which was well improved when he took it over. He has added many modern improvements. Because of his long association with affairs pertaining to the farm he is recognized as an authority on such matters and is also known as a man of the utmost business integrity. While he has never taken active interest in politics he is a Democrat. He is a parishioner of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic church and was identified with the numerous World war activities.
Charles Dell. An instance of a man starting out in life with few visible assets, and through wise disposal of his opportunities transforming his condition into one of more than ordinary prosperity and influence, is found in the rise of Charles Dell, now a retired resident of Middletown, where for many years he was proprietor of the City Hotel. Mr. Dell .was born May 25, 1835, at Wildungen, Germany, a son of Morris and Margaret Dell, who passed their entire lives at that place. There were the following children in the family: Katie, who died in Europe; Frederick, a shoemaker by trade, who joined his brother at Middletown in 1861, and died at this place; Charles; Christian, a shoemaker, who died in Europe; and Charlotte, who also passed her life in Germany. Charles Dell attended the public schools of his native place, and as a young man learned the trade of shoemaker in his father's shop. He decided to seek his fortune in the United States, his arrival in this country being in the year 1854. In the fall of that year he left Philadelphia and located at Dayton, which city at that time had a population of but 10,000. While he knew his trade, he could not readily find employment and so accepted a place with B. F. Eltz, for whom he hauled wood, took care of the stock and performed odd jobs, for a salary of $5 per month. Later he found work at his trade at Franklin, where he remained one year, and then came to Middletown, where he worked at his vocation, being for some time employed by various firms here. He then again went to Franklin, where he worked for some time in the shoe shop of John Kaiser, but in 1866 again came to Middletown and was variously employed. During all this time his industry and thrift had enabled him to accumulate some capital, which, in 1876, he invested in the building of the City Hotel. During the next twenty-two years he acted as host of this establishment, which became one of the most popular in the city, being well patronized by the traveling public because of the excellence of its service and the geniality of its proprietor. When he retired from active work, Mr. Dell turned the management of the hotel over to his son, Frank, who conducted it until 1916. Mr. Dell still retains ownership of this property. Mr. Dell is now living in his comfortable home at 1024 East Third street, where he is enjoying the fruits of his many years of earnest and unremitting labor. He was married at Trenton, O., to Margaret Yeager, who was born in Germany, and they became the parents of nine children, as follows: Charles, engaged in the mining business at Los Angeles, Cal.; Mary, who married first Oliver Hall and second Edward Frisch and resides at Middletown; George, deceased, who was a
plumber at Cincinnati; Anna, who resides with her father; Frank, retired, who conducted the hotel business for eighteen years; Otto, a broker of Chicago; Clara, who married James Kemble, a Chicago broker; Dr. August, a practising physician of Middletown; and Harry, an attorney of this city. Charles Dell is a member of the Lutheran church of Middletown. His career emphasizes the worth of perseverance, good judgment, wise investment and economy, of careful development of children in ways of obedience, gratitude and painstaking methods, and of cheerfulness in labor, combined with looking on the bright side of things and expecting the best that the time and occupation affords. Mrs. Dell died February 28, 1919, and was buried at Middletown.
Alfred Demoret, veteran of the Civil war, one of the leading citizens of the thriving community of Venice, and formerly a successful and prominent agriculturist in the vicinity of that place, belongs to an old and honored family, and one whose members have distinguished themselves in various avenues of life's activities. He was born on a farm in Ross township, Butler county, Ohio, being a son of Joseph and Mary (Cou1ey) Demoret, and a grandson of Nicholas Demoret. Nicholas Demoret was born in France, and as a youth emigrated to America, where not long afterward he joined Gen. "Mad Anthony" Wayne in one of his expeditions against the Indians. He was married in Pennsylvania to Lydia Bennett, and following their union they came down the Ohio river on a flatboat and took up their residence at Cincinnati. In 1815 they removed to Butler county, where they spent the rest of their lives on a farm, and when they died were laid to rest in the cemetery at Venice. They were the parents of the following children: Louis, Samuel, John, Bartholomew, James K., Joseph, Lydia, Jane and Mary. Joseph Demoret was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, and following his marriage to Mary Couley settled two and one-half miles northwest of Venice, where both rounded out long, useful and honorable careers and died with the respect and esteem of their townspeople. They were the parents of William, who served during the Civil war, in the Army of the Cumberland, as a private in Company F, 93d Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Capt. Robert Joyce, Col. Charles Anderson; Alfred, of this notice; Louis; James; Samuel; Joseph E.; Mary E. Alfred Demoret was born February 7, 1843, and received a public school education in Butler county. He was reared on the home farm and was employed in assisting his father when the Civil war came on, and, with his brother, William, and his cousin, Ellis N., a son of James K. Demoret, he enlisted in Company F, 93d Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Mr. Demoret saw two years and ten months of active service with this regiment, which was attached to the Army of the Cumberland and engaged in battles in Tennessee, Kentucky and Georgia. Among his battles were Stone River, Chickamauga, Liberty Gap, Orchard Knob, Missionary Ridge, Resaca, Pickett's Mills, Peach-tree Creek, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Franklin and Nashville, and June 8, 1865, the war being over, the brave and gallant young soldier received his honorable discharge and was mustered out of the service. Resuming the
duties of civil life, he returned to the home farm, and one year later was united in marriage with Amanda M., daughter of George W. and Emmeline (Brundage) Ent, who had the following brothers and sisters: Eliza, John and Marilda, all older than she, and George W., Jane, William and James L., who were younger. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Demoret located on a farm in Ross township, and with the exception of two years in Milford township made that their home until 1893, when they occupied their present pleasant home at Venice, Mr. Demoret working at the carpenter trade till 1915 when he practically retired from active life. Mr. Demoret is a man of absolute integrity and commendable public spirit and maintains a high standing in the community. He gave good proof of his loyalty during the war, in which two of his grandsons engaged, and in which he was a large contributor to the Red Cross, Liberty Bond and other movements. His political tendencies cause him to vote the Democratic ticket, and he is still one of the popular comrades of Wetzel Compton Post, G. A. R., at Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Demoret have had the following children: Charles E., of Ross township, who married Ella Decker, and has two children, - Isaac A. and Sarah; William C., who married Sadie Decker and had two sons, Ernest and Gordon, and after her death married Emma Lehrmann; Louis S., who is unmarried of Ross township, Butler county; Frank S., who married Josie Lesourd and after her death took for his second wife Flossie Stinger; and John A., who is unmarried. Ernest and Gordon Demoret, sons of William C. Demoret, entered their country's service and were sent overseas to France, where Ernest was identified with the Aviation Corps and Gordon with the Motor Truck service, hauling supplies to the front.
J. A. Deneen. Butler county is fortunate in having as superintendent of the county infirmary and farm the present efficient and popular incumbent, whose executive ability and industrial experience admirably fortify him for the manifold responsibilities that rest upon him in connection with the farm operations and the proper care of the unfortunate wards of the well ordered institution. The official who holds this position is Mr. Deneen, and his executive loyalty is undoubtedly augmented by the fact that he is a native son of Butler county and takes deep interest in all things touching its welfare. The farm which is now owned by the county and utilized for the infirmary is the birth place of Mr. Deneen himself, who was born the 31st of March, 1866, at the time of his father's administration. The Deneen family has long been one of prominence and influence in Butler county, and on other pages of this work are given adequate data concerning its history, specially in the sketch dedicated to Samuel Deneen. He whose name introduces this review received his youthful education in the public schools of Fairfield and Liberty townships, with supplementary discipline in the high school at Monroe. After leaving school he was engaged in farming in Liberty township, and there after he conducted successful operations as an agriculturist and stock grower in Liberty township, where he at one time farmed 265 acres. During the course of his independent career as a farmer
he always gave special attention to the breeding and raising of fine live stock, including pure blood Poland China swine, Jersey cattle and Hampshiredown sheep. It may be noted in this connection that for thirty-five years he was thus engaged in raising full-blooded hogs of the best type, that Jersey cattle were continuously raised by him for a quarter of a century, and that he was a prominent grower of the Hampshiredown sheep for twelve years. He exhibited his live stock at numerous county fairs, not only in Ohio but also in Indiana and Michigan, and always proved a prize-winner at such exhibitions, even as he did in his exhibits at the Ohio State fair. In connection with his farm enterprise he conducted a successful dairy department for twenty-five years, and in connection with his varied and progressive activities he did much to improve the grades of live stock raised in this section of his native state. He continued his independent enterprise as one of the prominent and representative agriculturists and stock growers of Butler county until 1918 when he was appointed to and assumed the office of superintendent of the county infirmary and farm. He is the owner of a valuable farm of 154 acres, in Liberty township, is a man of fine personality and commands the unreserved confidence and esteem of the people of his native county. In politics he gives his allegiance to the Democratic party and he has ever been vigorous in support of measures and enterprises advanced for the general welfare of the community. On the 23d of February, 1888, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Deneen to Miss Carrie T. Williamson, who like-wise was born and reared in Butler county and who is a daughter of Ezra T. and Martha Williamson. Of the two children of this union the firstborn was Ralph W., who died at the age of fourteen years; Lawrence E., who is actively identified with farm industry in Butler county, married Miss Jean Sample, of Columbus, Ohio, and they have two children, Donald and Douglas, who now live on the old Deneen homestead.
Lawrence Deneen, one of the best known stockmen of Ohio, was born at Maud, O., Butler county, Ohio, September 29, 1895. He is a son of Jacob Deneen, a sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this work. He received his early education at Monroe, Ohio, and after being graduated from the high school there was matriculated at Ohio State university at Columbus. He devoted his entire time at college to the agricultural course, receiving the degree of B. S. of agriculture in 1917. His devotion to science in nowise impaired his social popularity; he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and was elected president and secretary of his class in his junior year. After the completion of his college career he returned to his father's farm and is now actively engaged in the management of that 154-acre property. He has attained unusual success in the breeding of thoroughbred Jersey cattle, Hampshiredown sheep, and Poland China hogs. He has exhibited with hi father in county fairs in the States of Ohio, Indiana and Michigan and in the years 1916, 1917, 1918 won the Sweepstake Prize at Hamilton with his Jersey cattle. Mr. Deneen was married in 1911 to Jean, a daughter of Edward and Mary Sample of Washington, Pa.,
and to their union have been born two children: Donald and Douglas. Politically the principles of the Democratic party conform nearest to his views, but he is liberal and progressive in recognizing that the man takes preeminence over the party.
Samuel Deneen, a retired farmer of Monroe, and one of the substantial men of Butler county, was formerly active in agricultural matters, and for fourteen years served as superintendent of the Butler County infirmary. He was born in Riley township, Butler county, O., January 23, 1831, a son of Alexander and Martha (Beyers) Deneen, and grandson of James and Mary (Cresswell) Deneen, natives of Pennsylvania, who, in 1800, came from their native state to Cincinnati, O., making the trip down the Ohio river in a flatboat. At that time Cincinnati was but a small settlement, and for five years they were engaged in farming there, in what is now the very center of the business portion of the city. In 1805 they moved to Riley township, Butler county, where James Deneen secured a section of government land, all of which was totally uncultivated, and he at once went to work to clear and develop it. On this land he erected a little log cabin and he and his wife went through many experiences and suffered from the hardships naturally attendant upon pioneer life. Upon one occasion his wife set out for a neighbor's, some distance from home, to try and secure her help in a proposed job, for in those days the pioneers were willing to assist each other in all their work. A storm came up, and the poor lady lost her way, and wandered about all night in the snow. Her feet were badly frozen, and she was attacked by the wolves. Probably she never forgot her experiences during the remainder of her life. James Deneen was a soldier during the American Revolution and he lived to be eighty-three years of age. Both he and his wife were consistent members of the Presbyterian church. Their children were as follows: Eliza, Betsy, Ann, an unnamed infant, Hettie and Alexander. Alexander Deneen was born January 1, 1800, in Pennsylvania, and was an infant when his parents brought him to Cincinnati, O., and only five years old when they arrived in Riley township. In those early days there were but few schools, and they were located long distances apart. Alexander Deneen had to walk three miles each way in order to secure the little schooling that came his way, but he made the most of his opportunities, and developed into a practical, well-informed man. After his marriage, he located on his father's homestead, and lived on it until his death, which occurred when he was eighty-four years old from typhoid fever. His wife died in 1864, aged fifty-eight years, a devout member of the Presbyterian church. Politically Alexander Deneen was a Democrat. He and Mrs. Deneen had the following children: Mary Jane, who died at the age of two years; James, who was a farmer, is deceased; Martha Ann, who married Malcolm Peters; Samuel, whose name heads this review; Mary J., a widow who lives at Oxford, O., was married (first) to Elisha London, and (second) to Alonzo Warren; John, who was a farmer, is deceased; Elizabeth, who married Hiram Linley, is deceased, and so is her husband; Margaret, who married Isaac Wilson, lives at Chicago, Ill.; William,
who was a butcher and farmer, is deceased; Washington, who was a farmer of Riley township; and Alfred, who conducts a truck garden in Kansas. Samuel Deneen attended the common schools of his native township, and assisted his father in the farm work, remaining at home until his marriage in 1858, when he engaged in farming on his own account, renting land in Riley township, and operating it until his appointment, in 1864, as superintendent of the Butler County infirmary, and held that position for fourteen years. He then bought a farm of eighty acres, one and one-half miles south of Monroe, later adding forty acres to it, and here he lived until 1896, when he moved to Bethany and spent a year. Mr. Deneen then retired and came to Monroe, where he has since resided. Politically he is a Democrat, and he served Monroe as trustee for one year. January 22, 1858, Samuel Deneen and Sarah C. Trembley were united in marriage. She was born in Riley township, Butler county, O., August 3, 1837, a daughter of Amos and Martha (Alexander) Trembley. Amos Trembley was born in Riley township, in 1811, a son of Daniel V. and Mary (Ross) Trembley, pioneers of Riley township, who had the following children: Peter, Samuel, Daniel, Sistes, Nancy, Mary, Margaret, Rebecca, Sarah and Amos. The Alexander family came from Pennsylvania to Riley township at a very early day. The parents of Martha (Alexander) Trembley had the following children: William, Henry, Lewis, Joseph, Elizabeth, Nancy and Martha. Amos Trembley and his wife had children as follows: Daniel, who was a farmer, is deceased; Sarah C., who is Mrs. Deneen; Cynthia, who is deceased; James, who is deceased; Rebecca; and an unnamed infant. Mr. and Mrs. Deneen became the parents of six children, three of whom survive, namely: Florence, who was married (first) to Charles Hughes, and (second) to John Seward of Hamilton, O.; Addie, who married James Tooley, lives at Hamilton, O., has two children, - Hirshel and Ernest; and Jacob A., who is a stockman and farmer, and county superintendent of the Butler county infirmary, married Carrie Williamson, and has one son, - Lawrence. Both Mr. and Mrs. Deneen stand very high in public estimation, and have attached to them a number of warm personal friends at Monroe and allover Butler county. They are kindly, charitable people, who have always done their full duty as they saw it, and their children are numbered among the desirable residents of their several communities. In his public life Mr. Deneen carried out humane policies, and it was generally recognized that his judgments were upright and sincere.
D. Frank Dick. During the period that D. Frank Dick has been engaged in the real estate business at Hamilton, he has been one of the potent forces in the upbuilding of the city and is credited with having been instrumental in the development of several fine residential sections. When he first took up this business, several sections of the city were restricted in area and population, but gave promise of attaining a position of importance, and Mr. Dick, who was possessed of an unusual amount of energy, had a large part in the city's growth. His career as a successful realty man has been made the more satisfactory through the fact that he is building
up the community of his nativity, he having been born at Hamilton, a son of David H. and Mary Jane (Baty) Dick, early settlers of Butler county. David H. Dick died before he reached his thirtieth year, leaving three children: D. Frank; Mrs. Hon. Henry C. Gray, of Hamilton; and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Dick was again married after the death of her first husband, to Wm. Sample, and he also passed away before the attainment of his thirtieth year, leaving two children, both now deceased. D. Frank Dick received his early education in the public schools of Hamilton and when still a lad went with his mother to Millville, where he also attended the graded schools, subsequently supplementing this attendance by a course at Miami university, Oxford, Ohio. For several years thereafter he followed farming as an employee and then embarked in agricultural pursuits upon his own account, and for twenty years was accounted one of the practical, progressive farmers of his locality, a splendid judge of cattle and a scientific tiller of the soil who studied his calling and lent dignity of labor to its operation. During all this period he had been more or less interested in the real estate business of which he made a close and careful study, and his early ventures therein encouraged him to enlarge his scope, until finally his holdings became of such volume that he decided to give up agricultural work in favor of the realty field. He now maintains offices at Park and Dick avenues and his transactions are extensive in character, having involved some of the largest deals of recent years at Hamilton. While he is shrewd and a keen business man, ready to accept every opportunity, he is honorable in his dealings and thus occupies an excellent position in public esteem and the confidence of his associates. He is a member of the Presbyterian church of Hamilton, of which he was for some years a trustee, and has contributed materially and generously to worthy religious, educational and charitable movements. He and Mrs. Dick make their home at their beautiful residence on Park and Dick avenues, in a community which has been developed under the supervision of Mr. Dick, and which is one of the exclusive residence districts of the city. In 1871, at Hamilton, Mr. Dick was united in marriage with Miss Louise Beal, who was born at Hamilton and has passed her entire life here, a woman very popular in social and church circles and one keenly interested in the important movements of the day, particularly as they affect her home locality. To this union there have been born four children, of whom two survive: Russie Dick Seidensticker, the wife of a well-known jewelry merchant at Hamilton; and Carrie, who is the wife of Elmore Frechtling, who is engaged in the insurance business at Hamilton.
John Wilson Dick. In enumerating the wide-awake agriculturists of Hanover township mention must be made of John Wilson Dick. He is widely and favorably known by the business interests as well as agriculturists of Butler county and enjoys the esteem of all. He was born in Ross township, Butler county, the son of Samuel and Isabelle (Parks) Dick. He was educated in the schools of the township and on February 20, 1884, married Emma F. Ormston, daughter of David and Nancy (Stone) Ormston. Thomas Stone,
an uncle of Mrs. Dick, was a captain in the Civil war. After his marriage Mr. Dick was engaged in the milling business at Hagerstown, Ind., for a time. Subsequently he farmed in Fairfield township and later retired and moved to Hamilton. His son, George, who died in October, 1918, married Irene Taylor, daughter of Henry and Flora (Parson) Taylor. Enoch Taylor, a paternal ancestor, was in the Civil war, and William Parsons, Mrs. George Dick's maternal ancestor, also saw service throughout the Civil war. John Wilson Dick and wife divide their time between Hamilton and the farm in Hanover township. From time to time he has made vast improvements in this property, thereby making it one of the most attractive and productive farms in his section of Ohio. He was an energetic worker in all war activities, putting forth every effort to make all Liberty loan campaigns a success. He is a member of the Presbyterian church.
Thomas J. Dickey was born in Madison township, Butler county, 1868. His parents were Samuel and Elizabeth Dickey, both natives of this county, the father having been engaged in the pursuits of agriculture during the major portion of his life. After he had acquired sufficient means to enable him to give up this arduous life he removed to West Middletown, Ohio, where he served as justice of the peace for a number of years. He and his wife were the parents of six children of whom Thomas J. Dickey is the only one living in this county. He attended the public schools of his native county and then took up farming with his father until the time of his marriage when he rented a farm in Madison township for three years. At the expiration of this period he moved to a farm near Poast Town where he resided for four years, thence locating in Warren county, farming there till February, 1918. In that month he took over the 220-acre Kyle farm in Liberty township which he is rapidly improving to take its place among the leading farms of that section. Socially he is prominent in the community and is a well-known member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Politically he adheres to the Jeffersonian tradition although he has never cared to become a candidate for public office. On December 19, 1894, Mr. Dickey was united in marriage to Maud, daughter of James Knox, and their union has been blessed by two children: Glynn, who died August, 1917, and Mildred still residing at home.
H. Robert Dilg, one of the native sons of Hamilton, commenced his career in a modest position and today is accounted one of the city's influential citizens, in his capacity as treasurer of the Black-Clawson company. Mr. Dilg was born at Hamilton, a son of Frederick and Mary (Kline) Dilg, natives of Ohio, the former of Cincinnati and the latter of Hamilton. The father was a pioneer merchant of Hamilton, and a man highly respected and esteemed, both because of his upright life and absolute integrity, and because of his record as a soldier during the Civil war, in which he fought bravely as a member of an Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He and his wife were the parents of six children: Catherine, Clara, Louise, Margaret, Mary and H. Robert. H. Robert Dilg received a public school education, and after graduating from high school became a bookkeeper
for August Benninghofer. In 1891 he entered the employ of the Black-Clawson company, manufacturers of paper mill machinery, with which concern he has remained to the present time, having steadily advanced in position and influence until he is today treasurer of this large concern and one of its heavy stockholders. His standing among business men of his community is that of a sound and conservative, yet progressive man of affairs, whose connections are important and whose friendships are numerous. He belongs to a number of social and fraternal bodies, and with his family, belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Dilg was married in 1895 to Anna M., daughter of John and Magdalena Miller, of Hamilton, and they have four children: Romilda, Fred, Robert and Mary Elizabeth.
Albert Dimmack. From the time of its inception, in 1900, until his resignation in 1919, Albert Dimmack was employed by the American Rolling mill in the capacity of roller and in this period established a reputation for integrity, honorable dealing, industry and fidelity that has since assisted him greatly in making a success of his venture as proprietor of a grocery at Middletown. In the commercial life of the city of his adoption, he has already made his influence and ability felt, and the high standing which he enjoyed in the confidence of his fellow-workers in his former occupation, is due to be duplicated in his new avenue of activity. Mr. Dimmack was born at Bilston, Staffordshire, England, March 24, 1877, a son of Ephraim and Harriet (Bucknall) Dimmack, the latter of whom is living at Washington, Pa., where the father died. His maternal grandparents were George and Mary (Clark) Bucknall, natives of France. In the family were the following children: Sallie, who died in infancy; Albert, of this notice; Anna, who is the wife of S. A. Lowrey, of Washington, Pa.; Ephraim, of Middletown; Ernest D., of Los Angeles, Calif.; Frank, of Wheeling, W. Va.; Amy, of Wheeling, W. Va.; Harriet, of Los Angeles, Calif.; and Arthur, of Washington, Pa. The education of Albert Dimmack was obtained in the Springfield Academy of Bilston, England, and he was still a young man when he emigrated to the United States to work at his trade. In 1900, at the time of the opening of the American Rolling mill he came to Middletown and became one of this concern's first employees here, and did not sever his connection until 1918, when he bought his present business and commenced his career as a grocer. As a naturally clever man of business, he has already made a good start in his venture, and has a well-stocked, up-to-date and attractive establishment at the corner of Sixth street and Curtis avenue, where he is enjoying an excellent patronage. In addition, he is the owner of a fine home on Curtis avenue and is interested in other property at Middletown. He is a self-made man in all that the word implies, as when he entered upon his career he had naught but his trade, his ambition and his determination to assist him and from a modest start has worked his way to prosperity and business standing. Mr. Dimmack is a clever and cultured Englishman, with a proper and intelligent appreciation of the higher things of life, as will be recognized by a visit to his home. He is a popular member
of the local lodges of the Masons and Elks, and on matters pertaining to politics takes something of an independent stand, preferring to judge candidates without the attachment of parties, and parties by principles. With his family, he belongs to the Episcopal church. In March, 1891, Mr. Dimmack was united in marriage with Miss Harriet Jeavons, who was born in England, December 29, 1876. To this union there have been born seven children: Elsie H., who is the wife of R. A. Long, of Middletown; Albert; Lois Martha; Ephraim; Marion, who is a senior in the Middletown high school; Audrey, who is a junior in the same institution; and Ruth Mary, who resides at home with her parents.
William S. Diver. The proprietor of Midland Farm, William S. Diver, has been the owner of this Butler county property since 1902, prior to which time he was variously engaged as a farmer and carpenter. In the development of his present farm, which is located three and one-half miles northwest of Middletown, on the Jacksonboro & Franklin road, he has brought into play native ability, industry, and modern ideas, with the result that he has become one of the prosperous agriculturists of Madison township. Mr. Diver was born in Riley township, Butler county, March 31, 1862, a son of Jacob and Emma (Rish) Diver. His father was born at Seven Mile, O., a son of Nicholas Diver, of Wittenburg, Germany, who married a Miss Swope and came to the United States in 1845, settling west of Hamilton, O., where he followed farming, and where both he and Mrs. Diver passed away. They were the parents of nine children, of whom the following survive: Samuel, of Millville; Jacob; Margaret, who married George Lebrick of Miamisburg, O.; Elizabeth, the widow of Jacob Falkenstein, of Millville; and Eliza, the wife of Joseph Weis, of Hamilton. Jacob Diver was given a common school education, and in early life was a shoemaker. Later he engaged in farming, and finally entered business affairs as a grain dealer and mill operator of Middletown, where he now makes his home. He has resided and carried on operations also at Bunker Hill, Seven Mile, West Elkton and other points, is well and favorably known as a business man and a citizen, and a review of his career will be found elsewhere in this work. Mrs. Diver, who was a native of Germany, died in 1894, in the faith of the Reformed church of which her husband is a member. They were the parents of seven children: William S.; Charles E., an elevator operator of Middletown, a sketch of whom will be found in this work; George, whose death occurred in boyhood; Albert C., of Middletown; Frank O., a mill owner of Middletown, whose sketch will be found in this publication; Elizabeth, the widow of Riley Schenck, who resides with her father; and Minnie, the wife of Hugh Ayers, of Middletown. William S. Diver was educated in the local schools and resided under the parental roof until his marriage, September 11, 1884, to Miss Nettie Marshall, who was born near Middletown, and daughter of Isaac and Eleanor (Doty) Marshall. Isaac was the only son of Henry and Rachel (Newland) Marshall, the latter of Dayton and the former of near Middletown, and Henry was a son of James Marshall, of New Jersey, who came to Ohio in 1800 and settled east of Middletown, where
he secured a section of land and established a home. He had eight children: Esther, Jane, Benjamin, James, Henry, Isaac, Sallie and one other. Isaac Marshall, the father of Mrs. Diver, grew up on the old Marshall homestead, and was a farmer all his life. He was active as a Democrat in politics, and held several local offices, among them infirmary director and township trustee. He is a member of the Baptist church. Since his retirement, he has made his home at Middletown, where he has been well and favorably known for nearly a quarter of a century. His first wife, who died in 1879, was Eleanor Doty, who was born in Lemon township, Butler county, a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Vail) Doty, and a granddaughter of Daniel Doty and Stephen Vail, both from New Jersey. Joseph and Mary Doty had children as follows: George R., deceased; Gilbert, of Madison township, Butler county; Vina, deceased; Alice, who died single in California; Jane, a resident of that state; Eleanor; and Mary and Martha, who died in infancy. After the death of his first wife, Isaac Marshall married Mrs. Martha Doty, the widow of Russell Doty, and a daughter of John Harkrader. His third wife bore the maiden name of Eliza Leibrock. Mr. Marshall's children by his first wife were as follows: Mrs. Diver; Dr. J. D., a practising physician of Hamilton, O.; Olive, the wife of Ed C. Stewart, of Middletown; Minnie, the wife of V. V. Puckett, of Hamilton; and Sarah, who .died at the age of six years. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Diver: Lurten E., a street car conductor of Detroit, Mich., who married Mary Guilfoyle and has five children, Mary, Nettie, John, Helen and Lurten; Emma, the wife of Garse Billett, a farmer of Madison township, with two children, William and Irma; Olive, the wife of Verne McDonald, a farmer of Madison township, with three children, Chester, Lee and Zelma L.; Ruby, the wife of D. Salmon of Madison township, and they have three children, May, Myrtle and Warren LeRoy, who married and enlisted May 29, 1918, in the U. S. Field Artillery, and was stationed at Camp Taylor, Ky.; and Wallace, Zelma, married Gust C. Chaffos, manager of the theaters in Middletown; Estell and William, residing with their parents. After his marriage, Mr. Diver located on the old Marshall homestead in Lemon township for a period of two years, then spent one year in Madison township as a farmer, following which he took up carpentry as a vocation and spent eleven years at that trade at Middletown and Dayton. He then went back to Lemon township for five years, but in 1902 bought his present place, a tract of 175 acres in section 4, Madison township, three and one-half miles northwest of Middletown, on the Jacksonboro & Franklin road. Midland farm is devoted to general farming, Mr. Diver having 100 acres under cultivation and raising all kinds of grain, as well as devoting some attention to the raising of live stock, mainly Percheron horses. He has given evidence of the possession of much ability as a progressive agriculturist, and the excellent improvements on his property are indicative of his industry and modern ideas. He votes the Democratic ticket, but is not a politician, although interested in everything that may eventuate beneficially for his community. With his family, he belongs to the Pleasant Ridge United Brethren
church. The families of Doty and Marshall from which Mrs. Diver is a descendant, can be traced directly to Edward Doty who came over on the Mayflower.
Joseph W. Doron. Among the realty operators of Hamilton, one who has long been a leader in his field and who has contributed largely to the upbuilding of the community and the attracting of new interests and industries thereto, is Joseph W. Doron. He has been a resident of Hamilton for more than thirty years, and for the greater part of this time has been connected with the real estate business, having built up an excellent reputation through his extensive operations and the manner in which he has directed his transactions. Mr. Doron was born in Chesterfield, N. J., a son of Charles S. and Sarah (Bell) Doron, natives of Mount Holly, N. J. His father, who was a manufacturer of leather goods, spent his entire life in New Jersey, where he died in 1890, and Joseph W. Doron was the only one of the family to locate in Butler county, Ohio. After securing his education in the public schools of his native state, Mr. Doron became a traveling salesman, with headquarters at New York, from which city he traveled on the road for a big cloth manufacturing house for twenty-seven years. In 1888 he came to Hamilton, continuing to travel for several years, and in 1889 erected his handsome home at No. 329 North C street, this being the second house built on Prospect hill. This land was originally owned by Stephen Hughes and later by Asa Shuler, from whom Mr. Doron purchased the entire addition of thirty-five lots, of which he has built on and sold the whole number with the exception of five. In 1889 Mr. Doron was married at Hamilton to Ellen, daughter of Asa and Mary (Sorber) Shuler, natives of Pennsylvania who came early to Hamilton, where Mr. Shuler was one of the founders of the Shuler & Benninghofen plant. Mr. Shuler was born August 15, 1823, the second son of Samuel and Susanna (Weise) Shuler. In 1847 he came to Hamilton, and December 25, 1852 was married to Mary Sorber, also born in Lehigh county, Pa., July 5, 1831. Mr. Shuler died May 12, 1895, and was followed to the grave by his widow December 15, 1898. They were the parents of seven children: Angeline, born February 10, 1854, who married Harry Lashhorn, of Hamilton; James Buchanan, born August 2, 1856, who died September 18, 1857; Charles Adam, born June 23, 1858; William Baron, born February 15,1860, who died January 1,1884; Albert, born August 7,1862, who died February 5, 1870; Ellen Susan, born November 2, 1866; and May, born September 9,1873, who is the wife of Dr. James A. Dale, a practising physician of Nashville, Tenn. After his marriage, Mr. Doron gave up the road and settled down to the real estate business, in which he has been engaged with great success ever since. He deals extensively in property at Hamilton as a builder and developer, and was the builder of the Dorona flats, in 1907, one of the large and important apartment buildings of Hamilton. Also, he is heavily interested in real estate at Topeka, Kans., where he has closed some heavy transactions, and where he laid out and sold J. W. Doron's Walnut Park addition. He is widely and favorably known in business circles and occupies an excellent position in the confidence of
his associates. In political affairs he supports the Republican party, and his connections aside from his business interests include membership in the Hamilton club and the Butler County Country club. Three sons have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Doron: Shuler W., Joseph W. and John Lawrence. Shuler W. Doron was born March 7 1890, and was graduated from Purdue university with the class of 1916. In 1915, with his brother, Joseph W., he started the electrical business of Doron Brothers, with a plant at Wayne and B streets, where six men are now given employment. In 1917 he enlisted in the United States Army, joining, November 17, the A. C. Radio service. From March 30, 1918, to June of that year he was at College Park, Md., and subsequently was stationed at Fort Sill, Okla., from where he was transferred to Camp Alfred Vail, N. J., until receiving his honorable discharge, December 10, 1918. His commission was as second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps, and during his service he acted as Senior Instructor of Air Service in radio work. Joseph W. Doron was born August 10, 1895, and was educated at Hamilton and Andover, Mass. He enlisted in the Radio Division, Company A, 308th Field Signal Battalion, 83d Division, as a private and was stationed at Camp Sherman. Later he went to the Officers' Training Camp, at Leon Springs, Texas, where he received his commission as second lieutenant and was sent to Little Silver, N. J. Next, he was transferred to Camp Hancock, Augusta, Ga., where he was made Camp Signal Supply Officer; and finally received his honorable discharge from service; he was promoted to first lieutenant on the 19th of June, 1919, U. S. R. John L. Doron was born November 13, 1900, and is now attending the Hamilton High school. Mrs. Doron, a woman of many graces and attainments, has been prominent in social life and civic activities. She is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Washington Memorial and was one of the organizers of the local Red Cross Chapter, and was chairman of the woman's committee of the Council of National Defense and of the National League of Woman's Service, both for Butler county.
James J. Dorsey, one of the best known farmers of Liberty township is of good Irish stock, being the son of James and Ellen (Kelly) Dorsey, both of whom were born in the Emerald Isle. James Dorsey, sr., the father of the subject of this sketch, became discontented with conditions in his own country and came to America, the land of commerce. Realizing that his province lay in the realm of agriculture, he immediately entered upon the career of a farmer, hiring out by the month. He applied himself so conscientiously to the tasks set him that his services soon came into great demand in his community, and by the exercise of unusual thrift he was enabled to procure a farm as a renter before he had reached the prime of life. He was successful in amassing sufficient capital to retire some years before his death. He met and married his wife in this country and to them were born seven children: Mary, Kate, Thomas, Sarah, Ella, Elizabeth and James J., with whom we are now concerned. Young James followed the regular curriculum in the public schools of Butler county; this finished, he went into farming with his father:
continuing with him until about 1892, when he and his brother, Thomas, rented the Rentschler farm in Fairfield township. The two brothers met with instant success, so much so in fact that in 1898 James was enabled to purchase a farm of his own in the same township. Later he removed to Liberty township, occupying the Clawson farm for seven years, when he took over his present farm of 160 acres, known as the Paul Scudder farm. He does a general farming business but specializes in stock raising, feeding on an average about 150 head of high-grade hogs annually and a considerable number of excellent cattle. He has always taken a keen interest in the welfare of his township and county. His breadth of view and his clear insight into public conditions, affecting his fellow citizens, has singled him out for public office which took the form of his being selected as Democratic Central Committeeman of Liberty township, an office he still holds. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias. In 1900, Mr. Dorsey was married to Louise Daugherty and they have three children: James, who graduated from Hamilton High school in 1918; Carrie; and Blanche. Charles Wesley Pitman Doty. In the death of Charles Wesley Pitman Doty, in September, 1907, Middletown lost a citizen who had contributed largely to its wealth of character and purpose, and who, because of his absolute integrity, a trained mind and pronounced business tendencies, had been a valuable factor in the formation of various of its enterprises. He was one of the forecasters of the present prosperity of the thriving community, and as far as lay in his power lent his hands and brain in aid of a realization of his faith. Mr. Doty was born at Rock Island, Ill., February 7, 1841, a son of Daniel C. and Catherine (Crane) Doty, natives of New Jersey. Daniel C. Doty's first marriage was with a Miss Mary Burgess, also of New Jersey, and three children were born to that union: Randall, Marcus and John. By his second wife he had five children: Aretus, George, deceased, who was a brick mason and contractor of Middletown; Charles W. P.; Joseph C., deceased, a sketch of whose career appears elsewhere in this work; and Daniel, a resident of Dayton. Daniel C. Doty, who was familiarly known as "Uncle Daniel," came to Middletown at an early day in its history and immediately interested himself in a large number of enterprises. He was the owner of a large tract of land, on which he carried on farming operations, also boated down the Mississippi in the early days, conducted a large brick yard, and followed other lines of business, his varied abilities and intense energy carrying him into various enterprises, all of which profited by his co-operation. He was a kind and generous man, not alone in his family, but in his general dealings with his fellow-men, and many a poor man was given an opportunity to make a start by his benefactions. He was a Democrat, although not a political aspirant for position. Mrs. Doty was a member of the Methodist church, and her husband, while not affiliated with any denomination, was a generous donator to all churches and to all worthy enterprises, civic, religious, educational or moral. He died in 1873, greatly respected and esteemed, while his widow survived him until 1901. Charles W. P. Doty was educated in the home
schools and was brought up under influences which made for industry and honesty, and under his father's guidance learned the rudiments of business. He was married October 6, 1864, to Miss Jane Kyle, a daughter of John and Ursula Kyle, the former born at Kinsman, Trumbull county, and the latter in Butler county, where they were married. Mr. Kyle located at Amanda, O., where he established himself as proprietor of a grocery. For some years prior to his death, Mr. Kyle was in ill health, and his demise occurred in 1881, when he was seventy-four, Mrs. Kyle surviving him until 1896 when she passed away at the age of seventy-seven. They were faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Their two daughters were: Emily, the widow of William Story, of Dayton; and Mrs. Doty. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Doty: Emma, who married George A. Shepard, a millwright of Dayton and has two children, Mark W., who was connected with the American Expeditionary Force, in France; and Ruth Marie, a teacher in the public schools; and Dr. Edgar Evans Doty, who was educated at Middletown and the Ohio Medical college, was an interne at the Jewish hospital one year, and in 1897 went to Red Lodge, Mont., where he engaged in practice until his death in October, 1910. Mrs. Doty is a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Middletown. After his marriage, Charles W. P. Doty continued in business with his father for many years, and after the elder man's death continued in the business of manufacturing brick. Also he was engaged in selling wagons and buggies at different points in Ohio for eighteen years, but his health finally failed, and about 1897 he retired from active pursuits. From that time forward he lived quietly at his comfortable home at Middletown, where death overtook him, in September, 1907, when he was sixty-six years of age. Mr. Doty was a Democrat in politics and served as a member of the board of equalization for some years in addition to holding other positions of trust. As a fair-minded man and honorable, gentle in his judgment of others, he was the recipient of long and lasting friendships. Mrs. Doty, who survives him, and resides at her pleasant home at No. 607 Yankee road, Middletown, is one who has the esteem and friendship of a wide circle of acquaintances, and is highly regarded in the community in which she has made her home for so many years.
Joseph C. Doty. A promoter of industry, for many years identified with business ventures at Middletown, a public-spirited citizen and one of the most efficient officials his community has known, the late Joseph C. Doty was one of the interesting and attractive personalities who in the past lent worth and distinction to his community and who drew from its opportunities and environment the essentials of a broad and public-spirited life. Mr. Doty was born at Middletown, November 3, 1847, a son of Daniel C. and Catherine (Crane) Doty, the latter of New Jersey. His father was one of the early settlers of the Middletown community, where he owned a large tract of land, and in the early days, in addition to farming, floated on the Mississippi river and also carried on a large business in the manufacture of brick. He was twice married, and his children
by his second wife, who bore the maiden name of Catherine Crane, were: Aritas, of Hamilton, O.; George L., deceased; Chas. W. P., deceased; Daniel, of Dayton; and Joseph C. Joseph C. Doty received his education in the public schools of Middletown, and as a youth was initiated into the secrets of business life under the guidanc of his father. He proved an apt pupil and readily assimilated the elder man's teachings, so that when he was ready to seek the experiences and rewards of an independent life was well prepared for such action. He was married December 31, 1872, to Miss Mar E. Smith, who was born at St. Marys, O., a daughter of Aaron A. and Rachael Smith, natives of the same community, highly respected farming people and devout members of the Methodist Episcopal church. It is a somewhat remarkable fact that both of Mrs. Doty parents lived to the advanced age of ninety-two years. There were six children in the Smith family: Charles H., a gardener of St. Marys; Matilda Jane, the wife of Charles McKee, of that place; Eliza F., deceased, who was a farmer at St. Marys; Mary E., now Mrs. Doty; Rettca, the wife of Byron Wolam, on the old Smith homestead; and Flora, the widow of William Chambers, of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Doty were the parents of four children: Arthur F., confectioner of Middletown, who is single and resides with his mother; Loretta Estella, who died in 1911 as the wife of Frank Dive of Middletown, leaving four sons, Norval, Paul, Franklin and Donald; Daniel C., of the Big Four railroad, who married Eunice Shirt: and has four children, Estom, Joseph, Aaron and Virginia May; and Fern Alma, who married William Lewis and has one son, Carroll Edwin. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Doty located at 101 Yankee road, Middletown, on the same site as the home occupied by Mr. Doty's father, and where Mrs. Doty still resides. Mr. Dot remodeled the house and made many improvements, adding much to the property both in value and attractiveness. The early promise which he had shown in a business way was fully realized, for he rose to be one of the substantial and well-to-do manufacturers of the city, being extensively engaged in the brick and ice business and developing his enterprises to large proportions. The integrity which he displayed in business affairs and which was manifest in all his transactions with his fellow-men caused him to gain an established place in public confidence, with the result that he was frequently called upon to fill offices of civic and general trust. He was the incumbent of a number of positions, including that of trustee of the Middletown water works, and his entire record in office was on which reflected credit upon himself and his community. Mr. Dot was a Democratic voter, and his fraternal affiliation was with the Knights of Pythias, in which he had numerous friends, as he had, in fact, in all walks of life.
J. L. Douglass, the secretary of the H. S. Coulter Transfer company, of Oxford, was born in Oxford township, a son of Isaiah an Anna (Patterson) Douglass, on May 21, 1864. Isaiah Douglass, farmer of Oxford township, was the father of five children: J. L Elizabeth, deceased; Zada; S. L., and W. C. Douglass. Zada married Cliff Schultz, of College Corner. S. L. Douglass resides at
home, and W. C. Douglass is living in California. J. L. Douglass attended the Miami university preparatory school, and later engaged in farming for himself in Oxford township, until 1909, when he moved to Oxford, where he conducted a meat business. In 1914 he met with an accident that nearly cost him his life. While crossing a railroad track in a buggy, it was struck by a fast train, and Mr. Douglass received serious injuries which incapacitated him from business for two years. In 1916 he entered the business of H. S. Coulter, the transfer company owner, and became treasurer of the business. In 1885 he married Anna Styhr, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Styhr, of Oxford. To this union were born the following children: Dwight, Elizabeth Lenore, Frieda, and Inez Marie. Dwight was a student of the McGuffey school of Oxford, and after finishing school, became identified with the Maxwell Motor company of Dayton, Ohio. While engaged in work there, he entered the United States Army, joining the infantry, and received training at Camp Jackson, South Carolina, where he rose to the rank of sergeant and after the cessation of hostilities was honorably discharged with a splendid record. He re-entered the employ of the Maxwell Motor company, and is at the company's offices in Detroit. Elizabeth Lenore Douglass married LeRoy McCrary, and resides in Israel township, Preble county. To them have been born three children: Robert, Verna, and Ralph. Frieda Douglass was married to Otto Krauss, and lives at Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Douglass and family are members of the Presbyterian church. He is a member of the K. P. lodge. He was very liberal in his aid to local war relief organizations, and was active in many patriotic lines.
Charles M. Downey. Prominent among the lives and energetic citizens of Middletown, Charles M. Downey is worthy of mention. Since coming to this city, in 1911, he has been identified with the American Rolling Mill plant, where he is now occupied as a roller, and is accounted one of the reliable and trustworthy employees of this great concern. He was born at Martins Ferry, Ohio, a son of Robert and Julia (Dunigan) Downey. His maternal grandparents were Bridget Lynch and Bryan Dunigan. His parents were natives of Ireland. The father came to the United States when twelve years of age and mother when a small child, and located in the vicinity of Wheeling, W. Va. Removing then to Martins Ferry, Ohio, Robert Downey established himself in the hardware and tinware business, with which he was connected until his death, September 12, 1906. He was a capable and highly respected business man, and a veteran of the Civil war, having been a sergeant in the 1st West Virginia Infantry. Following the death of her husband, Mrs. Robert Downey came to Middletown, where she now resides at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Alice Leasure. Charles M. Downey was educated in the public schools of Martins Ferry, was reared in that community, and there learned his trade. Likewise he took a prominent part in civic affairs, and became a leader of the Republican party, being elected a member of the city council in which he served for years. During the early days he was also a member of the Independent Hose company, of Martins Ferry. This famous organization, which
was widely known to the fire laddies of several decades ago, won the championship belt, valued at $1,000, which was presented by Richard K. Fox, the well-known New York sportsman, in the meet of the various hose companies held at Atlanta, Ga., in 1895, the company being also presented with $250 in gold. In 1911, Mr. Downey came to Middletown and entered the employ of the American Rolling mill, where he now discharges the duties of a roller. He is popular with his fellow-employees, as he is also with his fellow-members in the Masons and Knights Templar. Politically he continues to adhere staunchly to the principles of the Republican party, and his religious connection is with the Presbyterian church. After residing at Middletown for three months, Mr. Downey returned to Martins Ferry, where he was married December 16, 1911, to Lillian M., daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Muldrew) Hammond, the former of whom, a Civil war veteran, died in 1882, and the latter in 1881. Mrs. Downey also sustained another sad loss, in 1918, when during the epidemic of influenza which swept the country, her favorite nephew, Earl, only near relative, son of William Hammond, was stricken with that disease. He had been a frequent visitor at the home of his aunt and uncle, to whom he was devotedly attached and his death, which occurred at Martins Ferry, Va., was a great blow to them. Mrs. Downey is a woman of very attractive personality, as well as a charming hostess, and the pleasant modern home on Third street is frequently the scene of social gatherings at which are present the numerous friends of this popular couple.
Samuel Dowrey, jr., an employee of the American Rolling Mill company, is a son of Samuel and Anna (Blevens) Dowrey, and was born in Hamilton, Ohio, March 3, 1890. His parents are still living, and he has two brothers, both in Ohio: Glenn, in Hamilton, and Donald, in Middletown. He was married October 1, 1908, to Emma Jane Cheadle, daughter of Daniel W., and Mayme (Nelson) Cheadle, who are still living and are parents of three other children: Margaret Louise, Andrew and Nellie, both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Dowrey have no children. For the past fifteen years, Mr. Dowrey has been an open hearth charging machine operator for the American Rolling Mill company. He is a man of much versatility and possesses in a marked degree both poetical ability and inventive genius. Many of his poems have appeared in the American Rolling Mill company bulletin, and among his inventions are a stopper rod and a hand soap called "Swat." Mr. Dowrey purchased a magnificent stucco house on Queen street which is the family home, and in which he takes great delight. He is a member of the United Brethren church, and announces himself politically as a liberal.
William C. Dowty. There has been no one man connected with the Hamilton Fire department to which the city is more indebted for practical and permanent improvements than to William C. Dowty, chief of the department from 1905 until his retirement in 1917, and a member of this body of fire-fighters for a period of thirty-eight years. He won promotion to the head of his department both because of his fearlessness in the line of duty and his executive ability and his earnestness, honesty and absolute fidelity retained him
office through several changes of .administration and party managements. The final result of his faithful and progressive service was not only to firmly establish him in the confidence of the local public, but to give him a widespread reputation on all matters connected with fire-fighting. William C. Dowty, whose death occurred May 7, 1919, was born at Hamilton, November 14, 1855, a son of J. Wilson and Ann (Mathias) Dowty. His maternal grandfather was Isaac Mathias, who was born near Venice, Ohio, and was always a resident of Butler county, where he followed the business of tinsmith. His daughter, Mrs. Dowty, died in February, 1895, at the age of sixty years, in the faith of the Universalist church. J. Wilson Dowty was born near Venice, Ohio, a member of a family that originated in Virginia. As a young man he moved to Hamilton, was the owner of farm lands on Mount Pleasant pike, and was prominent in Democratic politics, serving at one time as clerk of Butler county, and for some years as constable at Hamilton. He died in 1862, at the age of thirty-two years. He and his wife were the parents of four children: one who died in infancy; William C.; Eliza F., who died in 1911, as the wife of Christian Eberling of Hamilton; and James Wilson, a tinner by trade, who served as constable and night watchman, and died in 1914, leaving a widow to survive him, she having borne the maiden name of Sallie Sutter. William C. Dowty received his education in the public schools of Hamilton. Following his father's death, his grandmother Dowty reared the children, and lived with the mother, and William C. Dowty began to learn the tinner's trade, with I. & J. Mathias, by whom he was employed six years. For five years he worked for Colonel Elliott, proprietor of the Still House, as engineer, and then spent two years on Colonel Elliott's farm. In 1880 he was appointed a member of the Hamilton Fire department and assigned to the Number One's. He immediately proved his worth as afire-fighter, especially in the days of the old fire engine, before Hamilton boasted of a city waterworks. He had started as a pipeman, but a few years later was promoted to the captaincy of the One's and continued to serve in that capacity until 1903, when he was made fire marshal of the department under its reorganization. In this capacity he served under Chief Adam Baker and upon the death of the latter two years later, Mr. Dowty was chosen as his successor. A better choice could not have been made, for under his leadership the fire department of Hamilton was well disciplined, made thoroughly competent and brought to the front as one of the best fire-fighting forces in the state. Chief Dowty remained at the head of the department until December 31, 1917, when, because of failing health, he retired to enjoy a well-earned rest. From that time forward he devoted his time to his home, his family and his friends, and seemed greatly to enjoy the freedom which had become his. His death occurred May 7, 1919, at his home, after a brief illness following hemorrhages caused by ulcer of the stomach. In speaking editorially of his death, the Hamilton Evening Journal said in part, as follows: "In the death of William C. Dowty, Hamilton has lost a most worthy citizen. He proved his worth by his public service and for thirty-eight years he was a member
of the fire department. In whatsoever capacity he served in this important branch of the city service, Mr. Dowty met every duty and responsibility faithfully and without hesitation. Later when advancement came to him, he studied the duties devolving upon him; made a study of what the people demanded of him and never faltered in the face of duty. He understood building construction, he understood the causes of fires, and knowing the causes he was able to fight a fire with marked generalship. As chief of the fire department Mr. Dowty led his men. He never ordered a man to go where he feared to go himself. His men trusted him, believed in him and they obeyed his commands. Some of Hamilton's most serious fires were fought under the direction of Mr. Dowty and in numerous instances his ability won the battle with the flames. And so in the death of William C. Dowty Hamilton has lost a citizen who gave the best years of his life to the public service and in those years won and held the confidence, the respect and good will of the people of the city generally." Fraternally Mr. Dowty was connected with Esther Court No.4, Tribe of Ben Hur. His religious affiliation was with the Reformed church. January 7, 1876, Mr. Dowty married Helen Cecelia, daughter of William and Isabella (Coleman) Rutter of Princeton, Ohio. Mrs. Rutter, who was the second wife of he husband, was born at Germantown, Ohio, her parents being native of Pennsylvania. William Rutter was a native of Venice, Ohio, and a shoe maker by trade. During the Civil war he enlisted from Kentucky was wounded in battle, and died and was buried at Chattanooga, Tenn. Later his widow moved to Hamilton, where she died in 1889, in the faith of the Lutheran church. Of the seven children in the Rutter family, two died in infancy, the others being Catherine, who died January 13, 1918, as the wife of the late Jacob Sebastian, who resided at Logansport and Terre Haute, Ind.; John Q., who married Laura Bryan, was a painter and decorator of Ada, Ohio, and died in 1917, leaving his widow to survive him; William, a shoemaker of Cincinnati, who married Josephine Starks; Mrs. Dowty; and Anna L., the wife of William Spivey. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dowty, of whom four survive: Bessie, graduate of the Hamilton High school, who also attended school at Wooster, Ohio, and now a teacher in the public schools of Hamilton; Pearl, also a teacher here, educated in the home schools and one term at Heidelberg college; Nina, a teacher of domestic science at Newport, Ky., educated at Hamilton, Newport, Lexington, Ky., and Oxford, Ohio; and Josephine, who is a graduate of the local schools and now at Toledo, where she is studying to be a trained nurse. Mrs. Dowty, who survives her husband and has numerous friends at Hamilton, resides at the pleasant family home, No. 31 N. D street, Hamilton.
Martin Druck, a leading citizen of Hanover township and or of the representative and honored residents of the Hamilton community, has been identified with the agricultural and business interests of this section for a number of years. He was born at Millville, Butler county, Ohio, September 27, 1872, a son of John and Mary (Denzler) Druck. His paternal grandfather, Charles Druck,
brought his family to the United States when his son, John, was a lad of eight years, the family first locating at Hamilton and then settling on a farm near the present property of Martin Druck. The Denzler family also came from Germany and first settled at Covington Ky. where Mary Denzler was born, but subsequently moved to a farm near Hamilton, where she met and married Mr. Druck. After their marriage they spent a short time at Millville and then settled down to farming on the present property of Martin Druck, but are now retired from active pursuits and make their comfortable home on Central avenue, Hamilton. They became the parents of six children: Charles, of Hamilton; Mrs. Elizabeth Baker, of that city; Martin; Mrs. Charles Protzman, of Hamilton; Susan, who is single and resides with her parents; and Mrs. Addie Coffer, of St. Clair township. Martin Druck obtained his education in the Blue Grass school and was reared on the home farm, which has always been his home. He has developed the property systematically and practically and has made numerous improvements, thereby making the property a valuable one. He carries on general farming and has met with success in stock raising, being at this time the owner of seventeen fine Holsteins. Everything pertaining to the public good receives his hearty endorsement and he is justly considered a .public-spirited citizen and one who did his full share in supporting war activities during the time when this country was engaged in the great struggle overseas. Mr. Druck was married in March, 1904, to Bertha, daughter of C. and Lucy Moyer, of Troy, Ohio, who were formerly prominent farming people of Butler county. Mr. and Mrs. Druck are the parents of three children: Edgar, born in 1905; Althea, born in 1907; and Lucille, born in 1908.
William Pierre DuChemin, who is foreman of the culvert department of the American Rolling mill at Middletown, was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of John William and Margaret (Rowland) DuChemin, and a descendant of an old and honorable French family. His father, who was born in France, emigrated to the United States in young manhood, prior to the Civil war, in which struggle he fought three years and nine months as a soldier of the Union and advanced to the rank of captain. Following the close of the war he located at Cincinnati, where he married Margaret Rowland, who died in 1883, Mr. DuChemin surviving her until 1901. There were two children in the family: William Pierre, of this notice; and Elizabeth, the widow of the late Dr. Glenn Miller, a practising physician of Oklahoma until his recent death. William P. DuChemin received his education in the public schools of Cincinnati, where he also learned his trade, and about 1900 came to Middletown, at the opening of the American Rolling mill. He was skilled at his vocation, steady in his work, reliable and trustworthy in the performance of his duties and always industrious, and gradually earned promotion to the position of foreman of the culvert department, a position which he has held for the past ten years. As a voter he supports Republican candidates and principles, and his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church. Mr. DuChemin married Carrie, daughter of Ezra Clark and Kate (Hirsch) Hinkle, and to this union there
have been born three children: Ruth Dell, William Glenn and Eloise May. The last-named, who is a student at the Middletown High school, possesses a beautiful voice, and is also a gifted performer on the piano. The comfortable and tastefully furnished home of the DuChemin's is located at 710 Baltimore street. In Mrs. DuChemin's family there were five children: Della May, the wife of E. Huntsbarger; Edith, the wife of Jacob Miller; Joe Alvin; Charles Edward; and Jim, who was in the United States Army and since his return has been engaged in the grocery business at Lakeside.
Louis Duemer. Of the men who now occupy positions of importance in the manufacturing world of Hamilton, few have better claims to the title of self-made man than has Louis Duemer, president of Louis Duemer & Sons. When he arrived in this country as a young man, he was possessed of little capital save that represented by his earnest determination and boundless ambition, and his willingness to work at whatever honorable occupation presented itself. From this modest beginning he has worked his way to the head of an important industry which is recognized as a leading factor in the field of pattern making and furnace manufacturing. Mr. Duemer was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1856, a son of J. and Sophia Duemer. His education was of the public school variety and three year spent in the Free Trades school at the City of Hamburg, and until he was twenty-five years of age he lived in his native place, being variously employed. Being of an ambitious nature, and not seeing any great future ahead of him, he came to the United States in 1881, and at once choosing Hamilton as the field for his success, secure employment at the Shortman & Blum Furniture factory. There he worked at his trade of cabinet maker for one year and subsequently was employed as a pattern maker by the Long & Allstatter company, and later by the Niles Tool works, the Gordon Maxwell Pump company and the Estate Stove works. While employed at the latter plant he made patterns for one of the first gas stoves in the United States. Mr. Duemer embarked in business on his own account in 1890, and by 1900 found it necessary to build the present modern plant on Central avenue, where a force of men of the highest skill are given employment in making patterns and manufacturing furnaces. In the latter connection Mr. Duemer has made patterns for some of the largest stove and furnace manufacturers in the country, and many of the best stoves and ranges used in a large part of this country were designed by him. A specialty of the company is the Hamilton All-Cast Double Radiator Furnace, for pipe or pipeless systems. For nearly thirty years the firm of Louis Duemer & Sons has successfully designed and built patterns for furnace heaters, coal, gas and wood stoves and ranges, and the specialty referred to is the result of long years of experience and specialized study. The furnaces of this company are built on scientific and practical principles, and careful attention has been given to the different parts, so as to make them of such shape and form as adapted to get the greatest possible efficiency and durability. M Duemer is widely known in business circles as a man of the highest principles and strictest integrity, and in his long career has never
committed an act which would betray the confidence of his associates or the public. He has a number of important business, social and civic connections, and in his wide acquaintance numbers many sincere friends. In 1882 he was united in marriage with Marie Shafer, and they are the parents of four sons and one daughter, three sons, Carl, Louis and Walter being associated in the business with their father.
Charles J. Duersch, who, with his brother, William, manages the large coal concern established by their father, at 448 Main street, Hamilton, is one of the alert business men of this city. The father, Adolph Duersch, was born in Germany, where he was married to Friedricka Brooks, also a native of Germany. Leaving Germany, they came to the United States, and arrived here before the close of the Civil war. Like so many of his countrymen during that trying period in America's history, Adolph Duersch became a soldier in the Union army, and served his adopted country faithfully until peace was declared. A tanner by trade, Adolph Duersch found remunerative employment at it until 1885, when he founded the coal business at Hamilton, now carried on by his sons, Charles J. and William, having himself passed away some years ago. At one time Adolph Duersch served as a member of the board of equalization of Hamilton, and was valued by his associates on it .because of his sound judgment and sincere honesty. He and his wife had seven children, of whom six survive, namely: Mary, Minnie and Katie, all of whom reside with their widowed mother at Hamilton; William, who married and has three children, and is now living at Hamilton; George J., who married Ida Pierson, has one child, and also lives at Hamilton; and Charles J., whose name heads this review. Charles J. Duersch was reared at Hamilton and attended its schools, as did his brothers and sisters. June 28, 1916, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma Clements, a daughter of J. W. Clements, who lives on Ross avenue, Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Duersch attend the Methodist Episcopal church. He votes the Democratic ticket. The fraternal affiliations of Mr. Duersch are with the Elks and Eagles. It has been the policy of the two brothers to carry out their father's plans for the management of the business into which he put so much of his own individuality, and their customers have continued with them as they have realized that the sons intend to live up to the standards established by the elder man. The younger men are dependable citizens, who are held in high esteem at Hamilton and in the county, and they deserve their prosperity for it is founded upon honest dealing, prompt service and fair methods, and having won the confidence of their community, they are retaining it in a marked degree.
George J. Duersch. Since 1897 George J. Duersch has contributed to the commercial equipment of Hamilton a sound and substantial bicycle and electrical business, which was founded by him and which has developed consistently under his able direction. Mr. Duersch has won his success in his native city, for he was born at Hamilton, October 23, 1878, a son of Adolph and Friedricka (Brooks) Duersch. His father, born in Germany and there educated,
was a young man when he emigrated to the United States during the period of the Civil war, and enlisted in the ranks of the Union army, with which he fought gallantly until the close of the struggle: At the finish of his military service, he took up the trade of tanner which he had learned in his youth, and followed it until 1885, in which year he established himself in a coal business at No. 44: Main street, Hamilton, which, since his death has been under the management of his sons, William and Charles J. Mr. Duersch was a capable man of business, whose integrity was never questioned and bore an equally good reputation as a citizen, his public activities having included service as a member of the board of equalization for several years. He and Mrs. Duersch, who survives him at Hamilton, had seven children, of whom six survive: Mary, Minnie, and Katie, with whom their mother makes her home; William who married, has three children, and lives at Hamilton; Charles J. who married Emma Clements; and George J. George J. Duersch was educated in the graded schools, and, having shown a mechanical turn, started to work for hardware concerns where he thoroughly mastered all the details pertaining to the bicycle and electrical business. He was but twenty-one years of age when he purchased property at No. 22 North Third street, and established himself in business as the proprietor of an enterprise of his own. His start was modest and unassuming, but his good workmanship, fidelity to engagements and unfailing courtesy soon won him added and constantly increasing patronage, and today his establishment is considered in the light of a necessary commercial adjunct to the town's business houses. He has a complete and well selected stock of goods, tastefully arranged and properly priced, and is in a position to do all manner of work pertaining to the cycle and electrical business. Mr. Duersch's success has been self-attained and he is eminently worthy of the respect and confidence in which he is held. Mr. Duersch married Miss Ida Pierson, daughter of Enoch Pierson, an early settler of Hamilton, and to this union there has been born one son, aged three years. Mr. Duersch is the owner of his own comfortable home at No. 539 Park avenue. He and his wife are consistent members of the Presbyterian church and have numerous friends therein, as they have throughout the city, where the family is well known.
John F. Duffield is one of the large landholders of Butler county and a dealer in real estate and his status as a business man and, citizen is typical of the material upon which his business rests and which has contributed materially to his success as a realty operator at Somerville. Mr. Duffield was born on a farm in Somers township, Preble county, Ohio, September 9, 1848, a son of James and Jane (McClung) Duffield. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, who was educated in the public schools and came to Ohio as a young man, settling at a location northeast of Collinsville after his marriage, his wife being a native of near Millville, this state. When he made his start in life his cash capital consisted of but fifty cents, to which was added his great ambition and determination. After renting land for several years, he went to Preble county,
where he purchased land in Somers township, one and one-fourth miles north of Somerville. There he cultivated his land and added thereto, became one of the substantial agriculturists of his community, and in the evening of life moved to a comfortable home at Somerville, where his death occurred in 1903, when he was eighty-six years of age. Mrs. Duffield, who died in 1900, had reached the advanced age of ninety-one years. In addition to being a skilled and scientific farmer, Mr. Duffield was a progressive and practical stockman and in 1850 brought the first Poland China hogs into Preble county. He was originally a Republican, but later transferred his allegiance to the Democratic party. He and Mrs. Duffield were consistent members of the Presbyterian church, and the parents of five children: Mary Elizabeth, who is deceased; Eliza Jane, the wife of Samuel Shellenberger; John F.; George, a farmer near Eaton, Ohio; and Sallie, who died April 24, 1905. George F. Duffield was educated in the public schools of Preble county and reared on his father's farm, but as a young man, like many other farmer's sons, was attracted by railroading, and went to Kansas City, Mo., where he secured employment with the Missouri Pacific railroad. Later he was with the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad, the Missouri, Kansas & Texas (Katy) railroad and the Union Pacific railroad, his railroad experience covering the period from 1867 to 1879, during which time for five years he was a conductor on a passenger train running out of Kansas City. Returning home in the latter year, he became associated in business with his father, of whose interests he took charge, and at once commenced the breeding of Poland China hogs on an extensive scale, developing steadily into one of the foremost men in his line in the country. His stock was exhibited at county fairs, state fairs and live stock expositions at Detroit, Mich.; St. Louis, Mo., throughout Indiana and Ohio, and at Carthage, Mo., and won numerous prizes and ribbons. In 1905, he removed his home to Somerville and began dealing in realty, a field in which he has also won great and well-merited success. Ready adaptation to opportunity, a capacity for gauging the possibility of increase in values and the well developed speculative instinct which places the natural broker in a class by himself, have been factors in Mr. Duffield's success. Since taking up his home at Somerville, Mr. Duffield has spent his winters in Florida. May 15, 1875, Mr. Duffield married Alice Stawpert, of Atchison, Kans., who died in October, 1882, leaving one son, Henry Frank, born April 19, 1880, in Preble county, educated in the home schools at Seven Mile, Ohio, and in 1903 married Edith Reed of West Elkton. Mr. Duffield's (the elder) present wife was formerly Eva I., daughter of James Young of Somerville. Mr. and Mrs. Duffield are consistent members .of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is active in local Republican political affairs, but not an office seeker, and his fraternal connection is with the Knights of Pythias. In various movements Mr. Duffield has evidenced commendable public spirit and zeal, and all his commercial transactions have been guided by probity, sagacity and good judgment.
Charles Duncan was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, February
16, 1846, son of James and Isabelle (Stuart) Duncan. James Duncan and Isabelle Stuart were married in Scotland, and to them were born six children: Janet, Charles, James, John, Alexandriana, and Alexander, all of whom were born in Scotland. After coming to the United States three other children were born to them: Margaret, Isabelle, and David. James Duncan emigrated with his family to this country, settled in Champaign county, Ohio, lived there the remainder of his life, and was buried in that county. Charles Duncan was the only member of the family who ever lived in Butler county. After leaving the district schools, in which he received his education, he engaged in farm work, but later became a teacher, for twelve years taught school in Champaign county, and then returned to the farm. In December, 1879, he was married to Emma R. Chambers, daughter of Enoch and Mary Ann (Moore) Chambers, of Fairfield township. These children were born in the family of Enoch Chambers: Harriet, Mrs. Ames; Orpha, Mrs. Treudley; Emma, wife of the subject of this sketch; Lydia, Mrs. Mills; whose husband, Stephen A. Mills, served four years in the Civil war; Sallie, Mrs. Miller; Cora, Mrs. Sweet, whose son, Howard, was in the U. S. Army during the World war. Enoch Chambers and his wife Mary Ann are deceased, the former dying in 1886 and the latter in 1886, and are buried in Greenwood cemetery. After their marriage, Charles Duncan and his wife lived in Champaign county, and in 1886 moved to a farm of eighty-three acres in Fairfield township, Butler county. They continue to live on the same farm, but through well-sustained efforts, good management and thrifty methods, that acreage has been increased to an even two hundred. Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are the parents of three daughters: Edith, Mrs. Burer, has a daughter, Janet, living in Fairfield township; Nellie, who attended Glendale college; and Mary, Mrs. Moran, a graduate of the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and Glendale college, and now lives in New Hampshire. Mr. Duncan is a Republican, a member of the Presbyterian church, and has done much war work, having been captain of his precinct team in every drive that was made.
John W. Durrough, prominent in Hamilton, Butler county, Ohio, as brick manufacturer, real estate and one time police magistrate, who died at that place March 4, 1911, was sincerely mourned. The remains were laid to rest in Greenwood cemetery, Hamilton, the Rev. A. B. Austin officiating. He was born June 27, 1850, a son of Stephen and Abagialf Durrough, who were old and respected residents of Ohio and Butler county. The father was one of the old-time well-builders of Hamilton and a man who understood thoroughly every phase of his business. His first venture in the business world, and one which proved his determined nature, was that of a brick manufacturer in Hamilton, and from the outset he met with success. Previous to starting in business for himself he had learned the brick making trade at the Leffler brick yard. His brick yard covered four acres of land on West Second street, Hamilton. Later he purchased the brick business of his brother and conducted this for about ten years. He became impressed with the possibilities of contracting and engaged in this line, also giving attention to real
estate. He continued in these activities until his death. Among his best known jobs was the laying out of the Durrough-Campbell addition in East Hamilton. During the period that he served as justice of the peace in Hamilton, he made a most enviable record and won the admiration of all for the fairness with which he dispensed justice. When he left this office the opinion was expressed generally among the legal fraternity that he had been one of the most efficient justices of the peace that had ever held that office in Hamilton. July 25 1885, he married Miss Margaret Gilmore, who was a daughter of W. S. Gilmore, one of the highly respected citizens of Hamilton. The latter's wife's name was Braden. The uniting of John W. Durrough and wife in matrimony linked two of the representative families of Hamilton. To Mr. and Mrs. Durrough, were born Miss A., who became the wife of Louis J. Campbell of Cincinnati, and who is the mother of two children, Miss Cora and Magdaline Durrough; and James Wilson. Mr. Durrough had always been a Democrat in politics and it was said that throughout his life he was always known for his loyalty to his party. He was considered a good campaigner and his services in this regard were eagerly sought. He was also a consistent churchgoer and had membership in the United Brethren.
Henry S. Earhart. Among the best known, most enterprising and highly regarded agriculturists of Oxford township, Butler county, Ohio, is Mr. H. S. Earhart, who owns sixty-seven and one-half acres of the most productive farming land in that section of the state. He is typical of the Ohio farmer, being energetic and keeping pace with the times and the success that he has had with his land has been well merited. Mr. Earhart was born in Preble county, Ohio, the eldest son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Search) Earhart. There were thirteen children. He attended school at Jericho and later went to Kansas with his brother-in-law. In 1870 he returned to Ohio and after a short period departed for Casey, Ill., where he engaged ill the hardware business for three years with Richard Young as partner. He realized that new and profitable opportunities awaited him in the farming industry and accordingly returned to Butler county to occupy the large and promising tract of land which has since proved so productive. Benjamin Earhart was born in Pennsylvania and came to Ohio in 1821. He witnessed the transformation of thousands of acres of prairie land into fertile farms and took an active interest in furthering the agricultural prestige of this great state and accordingly during his time was known as one of the most enterprising farmers of his section. Mrs. Earhart was born in Casey, Clark county, Ill. His parents were early settlers, of Scotch-Irish descent and were of Revolutionary and 1812 War stock. Henry Earhart married Maggie Strong of Clark county, Ill., in 1876, and to them were born six children: James, Daisy, Sina, Maud, Jeannette and Eunice. In addition to farming Mr. Earhart has found time to engage in other activities which have proved decidedly profitable. In politics Mr. Earhart is a Democrat and in religion a Methodist. During the World war he exerted himself to the utmost in the various activities of his community which would aid Uncle Sam and the allies in making the world safe for democracy
and the results of his work are best exemplified in the achievements of Butler county in the various Liberty Loan campaigns and other important work.
Charles F. Early. Located on the West Middletown and Poast Town road in Butler county is found the highly improved and fertile farm belonging to Charles F. Early, one of the progressive and practical agriculturists of the Miami valley. This worthy and enterprising citizen has passed his entire life in this region, having been born at Springboro, Warren county, Ohio, a son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Pence) Early. The Early family is well known in the Miami valley, having come during pioneer days from Virginia to this part of Ohio, where its members have been helpful factors in the development of what has become a prosperous and highly cultured region, and have controlled large tracts of land. There were four children in the family of Isaac and Elizabeth Early: Howard; Will; Charles F.; and Cora, who married E. A. Wellbaum, of Miamisburg. Charles F. Early attended the public schools of Warren county and was later sent to the celebrated Miami Valley college, where he was a student two terms, at Springboro. He began his independent career as a farmer, and has worked his way to the management of l50 acres of land, which formerly comprised the Temple Barklow farm. This he conducts for general farming purposes, operating a dairy business in connection with a herd of splendid Holstein cattle. He has a splendid set of buildings, including a handsome home, which has been completely remodeled since Mr. Early took over the management, and which is furnished in a manner appropriate to the tastes of a cultured and well-educated family. Mr. Early is a Democrat, but has been only a voter and not a politician or office seeker. With his family, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. He has succeeded in his career, not only as a farmer who has made his labors return him a splendid profit for his investment, but as a man who has established an excellent reputation in business circles and as a citizen who has won and held public esteem because of the stand he has taken on questions of public and community importance. January 6, 1885, Mr. Early was united in marriage with Margaret Catherine, daughter of Ambrose and Margaret (Bean) Dearth, and to this union there have been born two sons: Ernest R., who married Marie Temple, daughter of Albert, and Louise Speidel Temple; and Warren, who resides with his parents. Mrs. Early had seven brothers and sisters: Louella; Newton; Mary E., who married L. E. Somers, of Greenville, Ohio; Henry S., of Springboro, Ohio; Anna, deceased; Clement, of Centerville, Ohio; Keturah, who married William Rickard and now lives in California. Mrs. Early's great-grandfather, Edward Dearth, married Elizabeth Roberts, the former a native of Fayette county, Pa., and the latter of Virginia. Edward Dearth was a minister of the Christian faith who did not believe in ministers receiving remuneration for their services, and whose labors therefore were always without pay. The grandparents of Mrs. Early were Samuel and Keturah (Townsend) Dearth, natives of Pennsylvania, who migrated to Ohio and located in Warren county in 1798. They were among the true pioneers of the Miami valley,
and during the early days endured all the hardships and privations incidental to the log cabin days. Mr. Dearth, from small beginnings, made subsequent purchases of land until he had 1150 acres in one body, as well as 1100 acres in other parcels, and was accounted a prosperous man for his day and locality.
James Eberhart. The late James Eberhart, who, if anyone ever deserved the appellation of self-made man, was fully entitled to that characterization, and who was long a conspicuous figure in the agricultural annals of Butler county, was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1828. He was a son of Frederick Eberhart, also a native of the Keystone state, who came to Ohio as an early settler, and after a short stay at Miltonville located at Blue Ball, where he continued to be engaged in farming during the rest of his life. He and his wife were the parents of thirteen children, of whom but two survive: Sophia, the widow of B. Carr, of Middletown; and Mrs. Mary Van Rutan, of Chicago, Ill. James Eberhart attended the public schools of Trenton, but his opportunities for obtaining an education were limited, as on account of the expense incident to the maintenance of so large a family, he found it necessary to assist his parents by working diligently, and a large part of his youth was passed in assisting to clear the home farm. He lived at home until the time of his marriage, February 2, 1871, to Mrs. Lucinda Helwig, the widow of Henry Helwig and a daughter of Abe and Elizabeth Galloway, natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Galloway came to Ohio as a small boy, his parents settling near Hamilton or Seven Mile, and later going to Marshall, Ill., where they secured land and passed the rest of their lives in farming. Mr. Galloway was a Democrat, a good citizen and a kind father. His wife was a devout member of the old school Baptist church, and their ten children were reared in that faith: Mrs. Eberhart; John, Rhoda, William, Martin and Thomas, all residents of Illinois; Jackson, of Lewisville, Ind.; Mary Ann, who lives in the West; and Hannah and Elizabeth, who are deceased. By her first marriage, Mrs. Eberhart has two children: William Helwig, who for the past seven years has been a railroad engineer in South America; and Elizabeth, the wife of Leander Scheideler, who was a school teacher of Hamilton, O., and who died June 1, 1919, and was buried at Hamilton. Two sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Scheideler: Professor William, of Oxford university, and James Leslie, a druggist of Detroit, Mich. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Eberhart purchased a farm of 170 acres near Blue Ball, which they proceeded to develop and on which they made numerous improvements. In 1893 they retired from active labor and took up their residence at Middletown, where they became highly esteemed among the people of the community. It was their practice to spend the winters at Lake Worth, Fla., and it was on one of these trips that the death of Mr. Eberhart occurred, in February, 1917, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-nine years. Mr. Eberhart was a Republican in politics, and although never an aspirant for official position, always took an intelligent and lively interest in public affairs and current events. He was a man of acute mental powers, keen perception, sound judgment and indomitable
energy. He will long be remembered as one of the most diligent, reliable and successful farmers and stock raisers of his locality. He and his wife belonged to the Presbyterian church at Blue Ball, and Mrs. Eberhart, who is in her eighty-fourth year and very spry for her age, still adheres to this faith. She .is surrounded by all the comforts of life at her home, 534 East Third street, Middletown, is still vigorous and vivacious, and is distinguished by her many graces of mind and heart. She is a very estimable woman, and is held in cordial regard by numerous friends.
Marcus Eck. From the year 1900 until his death, in April, 1916, the late Marcus Eck was identified with the farming interests of Madison township, Butler county, and during this time definitely established the fact that his years of connection with other ventures had not made it impossible for him to successfully follow the vocation of his youth. Mr. Eck was born in Madison township, September 12, 1859, a son of Levi and Eliza (Gingrich) Eck. His father, who was both June 14, 1827, near Tarrytown, Ind., was an early settler of Butler county, locating on the Joshua Fall farm, and later purchased the farm in section 20, Madison township, on which the remainder of his life was passed. He married Eliza Gingrich, and they became the parents of eight children: Sylvanus, of Detroit, Mich.; Thaddeus, of Hamilton, O.; Titus, deceased; Marcus, deceased; Cornelius, Ferdinand, Emma, the wife of George Wood, of Dayton; and Ella, the wife of Wesley Hulf, of Indianapolis, Ind. Marcus Eck was given good educational advantages in his youth, attending the home schools as well as those of Lebanon, O., and Hartsville, Ind., and was reared on his father's farm. He early displayed a love for horses, and in this connection eventually went to Kentucky, where for some years he had charge of large trotting horse stables. The ill health of his father caused him to return to Madison township, in 1900, to take charge of the farm, and at the elder man's death, in September, 1905, he became its owner. He successfully managed its operation until his own death in April, 1916. Mr. Eck was a Republican in politics, and his religious connection was with the United Brethren church. He had a wide acquaintance in the community and was respected and esteemed as a man of integrity and a good citizen. Mr. Eck was married near Walton, Ky., November 4, 1886, to Miss Alice Jeffries, who was born near Independence, Ky., a daughter of Jesse and Mary (Rector) Jeffries, natives of the same community, where Mr. Jeffries followed farming until his death at the age of sixty years. Mr. and Mrs. Eck became the parents of seven children: Jessie, a graduate trained nurse of Battle Creek, Mich., who spent one year in the Oberlin (Ohio) Hospital in 1914, and a like period with Doctor Hatcke, of Dayton, and now the wife of W. P. Channon, of Middletown, O.; Mary, who is engaged in the millinery business there; Ella, a dietician in the general hospital, Boston, Mass.; Ferdinand, engaged in farming the home property; and Clifford, William and Catherine, the latter two twins, residing with their mother. Mrs. Eck is a member of the First Baptist church, and is prominently known in charitable and religious work, being actively identified
with the local organizations of the Ladies' Aid society and the Woman's Christian Temperance Union.
William Thomas Edwards. In the career of William Thomas Edwards, industry, perseverance and continued activity along a well-directed line of labor in a useful trade have combined to bring him prosperity, contentment and a position among the substantial and respected citizens of his community. Mr. Edwards, who is identified with the American Rolling mill at Middletown, in the capacity of roller, was born at Mountain Ash, Wales, May 31, 1874, a son of David and Anna (Thomas) Edwards. His mother died in 1892, but his father still survives in hale old age. Mr. Edwards has one sister, Margaret, who is now the wife of James Grinage, of Pueblo, Col. The public schools of Wheeling furnished Mr. Edwards with his educational instruction, and in that intensely active industrial municipality he laid the foundation for his career, his training being all along the lines of his present work. He continued as a resident of Wheeling until 1911, and still retains his home there, although nominally living at Middletown. During the past eight years he has been employed in the capacity of a roller at the American Rolling mill, where he has gained his employers' confidence and respect by reason of his industry and close application to the duties devolving upon him as the incumbent of his position. As a man of pleasing personality, he attracts friends readily and retains them indefinitely. In his political support Mr. Edwards is inclined to be liberal, voting for man rather than party and recognizing no definite factional lines. He belongs to the Masons and the Knights of Pythias, taking a keen interest in fraternal work, and his religious faith is that of the Christian church. His good citizenship has been displayed on a number of occasions. December 26, 1898, Mr. Edwards was united in matrimony with Daisy, daughter of George and Laura (Thomas) Deiters, and they are the parents of two children: Miss Laura Ann, born in 1899, who resides with her parents at 26 S. Huron street, Wheeling, W. Va.; and George, born in 1905, who is attending the public schools.
William Eesley. Upon one of the oldest vocations known to mankind, that of milling, the Eesley family has indelibly inscribed its name, and a worthy representative of both the family and the honored vocation is found in William Eesley, a miller at College Corner, who is also interested as an owner in the Oxford mills. Mr. Eesley was born at Detroit, Mich., a son of A. R. and Jennie (Goldie) Miller, the latter a native of Scotland and the former of Stratford-on-Avon, England. A. R. Eesley came of a long line of millers, but in young manhood adopted the vocation of school teaching which he followed for several years in his native place and for a time taught school in the house in which the famous Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare, was born. School teaching, however, was not to his liking. He had the family predilection for milling, and, finding that circumstances were not such as to encourage him in his inclinations in his native land, he emigrated to the United States and for a time lived at Newark, N. J. Later, he went to Ayr, Canada, where he secured employment as a miller, and while living there
met Jennie Goldie, who belonged to a family of millers who owned a mill at that place. They were married there and two children were born to them, J. R., who follows milling, and Mrs. J. B. Scoon, of Toronto. After the birth of these children, Mr. Eesley started traveling from place to place, building mills in various parts of Michigan and operating them, and after living for a time at Detroit finally located permanently at Toronto, Canada, where he operated a mill until his death and where his wife also passed away. Their children were: John R., William, Robert, A. R., C. L., and Garfield, all of whom became millers; Dr. George, a physician of Toronto; Anna, who married J. B. Scoon, of Toronto; and Mrs. Jennie Baxter and Mrs. George Sinclair, also of that city. William Eesley received his education in the public schools of Detroit, and upon the completion of his studies traveled for a number of years as a journeyman miller. In 1909, he took up his residence at College Corner, where he has since made his home and achieved his success, being the owner of a prosperous milling property on the Indiana side of the state line, although his residence is in Ohio. He has made a success of this venture and is accounted one of the substantial business men of his locality, and is likewise a third owner in the Oxford mills. He has various businesses, and civic connections, and is a popular member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Mr. Eesley married Clara Peel, of Topeka, Kans., a lineal descendant of the eminent English statesman, Sir Robert Peel, and a daughter of James and Ella Peel, of Mount Sterling, Ky. Mr. and Mrs. Eesley are the parents of one child: Frances, born in 1901, who married H. Toney, a farmer near College Corner, and has one child, William E.
William J. Ehrnschwender. During the entire career of William J. Ehrnschwender, covering a period of thirty-one years, he has been identified with the First National bank of Hamilton, an institution whose growth and development he has watched with the interested eye of a contributor to its prosperity. He has risen, through his own abilities and fidelity, from a humble position to one of importance with this large and prominent banking house, and in financial circles of the city and county is recognized as a man thoroughly schooled in all the principles and details of modern banking. Mr. Ehrnschwender was born at Hamilton, Ohio, a son of George M. and Margaret (Fuhrman) Ehrnschwender, whose other children were Amelia, George C. and John. The father, who was a baker and confectioner by vocation, conducted an establishment at No. 29 High street, Hamilton, for many years, and during the days of the Civil war handled a number of Government contracts for the baking of bread for use by the Union Army. Educated primarily in the public schools of Hamilton, William J. Ehrnschwender prepared himself for a business career after leaving high school by a course in the Ohio Commercial college. He then returned immediately to Hamilton, and in 1888 secured a position as bank messenger with the First National bank of this city. He proved energetic, faithful and capable, and soon was given advancement to a more responsible position, and from that time to the present his career has been one
in which he has been advanced by reason of his merit and labors. At this time he is filling capably the office of note teller, one of the most responsible in the bank, calling for a high order of ability and constant application. Mr. Ehrnschwender is a member of St. John's Evangelical church. He is a genial, sociable man, who enjoys the companionship of his fellows, and is a popular member of the local lodges of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Loyal Order of Moose.
Otto I. Ehresman. In the following out well-laid and ably-directed plans as foundry manager, merchant and farmer, Otto I. Ehresman has achieved honorable and satisfactory success, and at the same time has so conducted his affairs as to merit the esteem and confidence of his fellow-men. At the present time he is the owner of a valuable and well-cultivated property consisting of 258 acres, located in Madison township, this property having been attained through the medium of his own industrious efforts. Mr. Ehresman was born on the old Iutzi farm in Madison township, Butler county, Ohio, February 4, 1854, a son of Christian and Maria (Iutzi) Ehresman, natives of Germany. The father was a young man when he emigrated to the United States and after his marriage at Trenton located on a farm north of that place, where he carried on operations until his death twelve years later, in 1867, when he was but forty-five years of age. The politics of the elder Ehresman made him a Democrat, and he and his wife, who survived him until 1906 and was seventy-nine years old at the time of her demise, were members of the Mennonite faith. They had six children: Otto I.; Bena, who married William Jotter, of Trenton; Bertha, who is single and resides at Trenton; Maria, who married William Hege, of Chicago, Ill.; Amelia, single, and a resident of Trenton; and Louisa, who died when a child. Otto I. Ehresman had only a limited educational training, as his father died when the lad was only thirteen years old and his labors were needed to assist in supporting the family. He remained at home with his mother until 1885, in which year he married Mary Duscher, of Madison township, Butler county, a daughter of Henry and Ella (Ball) Duscher, the former a native of Germany and the latter of the state of New York. Mr. Duscher was but three years of age when brought to the United States by his parents, the family settling at Trenton, where he grew to young manhood. When he embarked upon his independent career it was as the owner of a malt house at Hamilton and a still house at Collinsville, but later he engaged in farming, and finally established a foundry at Hamilton, and conducted the present plant there (which was of his own building) until his death. He had also other business connections and was a man well known and highly esteemed. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church and the parents of seven children: Louisa, deceased, who was the wife of Fred H. Burk; Mary, who became Mrs. Ehresman; Frank, who died young; Libbie, a resident of Hamilton; Sophia, who married William Stephen, a coal dealer of Hamilton; Sarah Ellen, the wife of Fred H. Burk; and Clara, deceased, who was the wife of Gus Schween, present manager of the Duscher foundry. Three children
have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ehresman: Clarence, Victor and Herbert, all at home. Following his marriage, Mr. Ehresman went to Gratis township, Preble county, where he was engaged in farming for a period of five years, and then returned to Butler county to become manager of the old Duscher foundry for his father-in-law, gradually advancing to the position of vice-president. He later re-entered in farming in Madison township for four years, and then purchased the old Asa Schuler place, of 258 acres, on which he carried on operations for three years. He has modern improvements of all kinds, and is accounted a skilled, practical and progressive agriculturist, and one who keeps fully abreast of all advancements being made in his vocation. Mr. Ehresman has also had experience in commercial affairs, for during a period of thirteen years he conducted a successful grocery establishment at Trenton and maintained an excellent record as a business man of marked ability and high principles. He is a democrat, and he and Mrs. Ehresman are faithful members of the Mennonite church.
Leonard Eichler, a progressive, industrious and successful agriculturist of Hanover township, and the owner of a good property, in the management and cultivation of which he is demonstrating his ability to gain good results for the labor which he expends, was born on a farm in St. Clair township, Butler county, Ohio, November 21, 1862, a son of George and Mary (Bauman) Eichler, natives of Germany. Emigrating to the United States in young manhood, George Eichler secured a position as a hired hand on a farm in St. Clair township, and not long thereafter he met Miss Bauman, who had come to the same farm to take a position in the household service. They were married and for thirteen years thereafter resided in the same township, then moved to the property which is now occupied by their son Leonard. Both died firm in the faith of the Lutheran church and respected and esteemed by those who knew them. Of their three children, Leonard is the only survivor, Christine and John being deceased. Leonard Eichler was brought up as a farmer's son and received his education in the public schools. As a youth and young man he assisted his father, and tenderly cared for his parents during their declining years, and at the time of their death inherited the home place, on which he has since carried on operations and as a business man he has earned the esteem and confidence of his associates by the honorable manner in which he has conducted his transactions. During the late war he was a generous contributor to all activities. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and the members of his family belong to the Reformed church. Mr. Eichler married Barbara, daughter of George Popp, of Reily township, and to this union there were born four children, of whom three survive: Martha E and Frieda A., who reside with their parents; and Louise M., who married Elmer Sipp and lives on a farm in Hanover township.
Eikenberry Brothers Company. In business circles of Hamilton the name of Eikenberry Brothers company carries with it the prestige that always attaches to a house that has established its integrity and solidity beyond the shadow of a doubt, while among
the general public the title stands for a concern which has never misrepresented its product and which has faithfully and unfailingly lived up to the letter of its obligations. This wholesale flour feed and seeds business was .established at Hamilton some years ago, when E. C. and C. M. EIkenberry, brothers, came to this city and located themselves on Fifth street, in the Bender property. There they succeeded in building up a large trade and eventually found their quarters inadequate to the demands of the business, so that they took the step of building their present fine property, 42 x 110 feet, a two-story brick and basement structure, at the corner of Seventh and Maple streets. Here every department is completely equipped and splendidly regulated, with an idea for the saving of time and labor and the consequent better conduct of the business. The Eikenberry Brothers company's flour, feed and seeds are widely and favorably known among the retailers, who are supplied direct, as only a wholesale business is done by the brothers. In addition to carrying on this business in a highly successful manner, they are interested in the grain business, and have elevators at Camden and Collinsville, Ohio. In all their business connections they have shown themselves to be upright and possessed of principles of fair dealing, which accounts for their excellent standings in business reputation and public opinion. E. C. and C. M. Eikenberry were born on a farm in Preble county, Ohio, sons of Levi and Rebecca (Eby) Eikenberry. The parents passed their entire lives in that county, in the peaceful pursuits of agriculture, and were people who had and merited the esteem and respect of their neighbors. Their family consisted of three sons and three daughters: E. C., of the firm; Whitfield P., who is operating the homestead farm in Preble county; C. M., of the firm; Agnes, who lives on a part of the old home place and is the wife of W. B. Francis; and Leila, the wife of J. D. Flory and a resident near Camden, Ohio. The public schools of Preble county furnished the early educational training of E. C. and C. M. Eikenberry, following which they attended the Ohio State university, at Athens, Ohio. They did not commence their careers in their present line of work, as E. C. Eikenberry was for some years identified with banking matters, as assistant cashier of the Commercial bank at Camden, and was president of the National Grain Dealers association, while C. M. Eikenberry taught country schools for two years, and was superintendent of schools at West Manchester, Ohio, and county examiner for six years. He was also president of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce; president of the Ohio Grain Dealers association; served as county food administrator and member of a federal committee. However, both had inherent qualities which drew them inevitably into business affairs, and since coming to Hamilton they have assumed positions among the leading business citizens, while they have also been successful in making numerous friendships. E. C. Eikenberry married Miss Anna Phares and is the father of one son, William. C. M. Eikenberry married Jessie Rogers, of Hamilton, and has three children: Rebecca, Roger and Jane. Both families belong to the Methodist Episcopal church.
John W. Eiler, a skilled and thoroughly competent general farmer and stock raiser and the owner of 102 acres of land, but is now operating 344 acres, was born at Symmes Corners, Butler county, Ohio, December 3, 1868, a son of John and Carolina (Schafer) Eiler, the former a native of Butler county and the latter of Germany, in which country also was born the paternal grandfather of Mr. Eiler, an early settler of Seven Mile, Butler county, who was engaged in shoemaking there until his death. John W. Eiler accepted the educational opportunities offered by attendance at the district schools, and upon leaving the log schoolhouse of his locality took up agricultural work as a farmhand for two years. Next he worked for his father until he reached his majority, when he rented a farm in Warren county, a tract of 125 acres, which he cultivated for three years. He then returned to Butler county for one year, but subsequently went back to Warren county and for fifteen years carried on operations on a rented property of 228 acres, but finally closed out his interests there. In 1912, he located on the farm which he is now renting, of 242 acres, in addition to which he is operating 102 acres of his own, making his property 344 acres in extent. While he has always been a general farmer, he has also found much to attract him in the raising of live stock, and is now feeding about 200 hogs per year. He is a recognized authority in this line, takes a deep pride in the quality of his stock, and is constantly improving his equipment for the caring for it. He also milks about twenty cows and does a thriving dairy business. As a voter, Mr. Eiler is independent in his views. He was married in 1899 to Ida M. Dishem, and they are the parents of five children: Hazel, Roy, Lee, Clarence and Howard. A splendid business man, an excellent farmer and stockman and a genial friend, Mr. Eiler is a typical representative of the best class of agriculturists in this part of the Miami valley.
Winfield Samuel Ekey, a shearman at the Middletown plant of the American Rolling Mill company, and a reliable and well-to-do citizen, was born near Steubenville, Ohio, September 25, 1864, a son of Samuel and Mary Ann (Duff) Ekey, prosperous farming people of that community, where the father died about 1871 and the mother December 7, 1878. Mr. Ekey has two brothers, Wesley and Charles, who are residents of Martins Ferry, Ohio, and two sisters, Iva and Hattie, who are deceased. Winfield S. Ekey was educated in the public schools of Steubenville and passed his boyhood on the home farm, where he was taught the traits of thrift, integrity and industry. The agricultural life, however, not appealing to him, he applied for and secured employment in the mills of his community, whence he came to Middletown in 1911, to enter the American Rolling mill. There he occupies the position of shearman and has the full confidence of his employers and the friendship and respect of his fellow-workmen. Mr. Ekey is a man of versatile attainments, and is especially skilled as a cabinet-maker. In his pretty home on Michigan avenue are to be found a number of pieces of handsomely wrought furniture as evidences of his skill and handicraft, and in addition it was he who made the
beautiful pulpit in the Oakland Presbyterian church at Middletown. He is a popular and valued member of the local lodges of the Masons and the Knights of Pythias, and during the past five years has been a delegate to the conventions of the I. S. & J. W. In politics he maintains a liberal stand, and his religious affiliation is with the Presbyterian church. Mr. Ekey was married September 18, 1888, to Miss Elizabeth Pierce, who was born September 18, 1868, in Wales, a daughter of Jabez and Elizabeth (Tout) Pierce, natives of England, the former of whom died January 13, 1916, and the latter of whom still survives. There were six children born to this union: Harry B., Pierce W., Paul, Jabez, Ernest Edward and Elizabeth. Of these, three sons fought in the great World war. Pierce W. enlisted in the Fifth Field Artillery, 1st Division, in May, 1917, and was two years overseas. He was gassed and wounded June 10, 1918, in the Argonne Forest, and was temporarily blinded and confined to the hospital for three months. After the signing of the armistice he went with the Army of Occupation into Germany. At the beginning of the war, Paul enlisted in the 8th Field Artillery, 7th Division, and Jabez entered the Aviation Corps. Elizabeth Ekey, while on a visit with her parents to Camp Taylor, met at Louisville, Ky., Frederick Reese Earnshaw, of San Jose, Calif., whose bride she later became. Mr. Earnshaw has been in the army for five years, having enlisted in the artillery at the time of the Mexican trouble on the border. Both Mr. and Mrs. Earnshaw are very popular with the young people of Middletown, where they are temporarily making their home at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Ekey.
Nearly a century has rolled around since the first settlement of the Cunningham family in Ohio, and during that time its members have been leading citizens and prosperous agriculturists of Butler county. Of the men who worthily represent this name today, one who has made a success of his operations is Harry H. Cunningham, of Wayne township. Mr. Cunningham was born in this township, January 2, 1880, a son of Andrew and Sarah Jane (Weaver) Cunningham. The founder of the family in the United States was the great-grandfather of Harry H. Cunningham, Samuel F. Cunningham, who was born in Ireland in 1770, and came from Conway, Ireland, to America about the year 1795, locating at Trenton, N. J. He was there married in 1800 to Mary Smith, and took up his residence near Trenton, N. J. In 1820 he came to Trenton, Butler county, Ohio, where he passed the rest of his life in farming. He was the father of six children: James;
