Andrew J. Elrick. By dint of natural ability and perseverance, Andrew J. Elrick has won a substantial position among the reliable citizens of Middletown, at which place he is employed as a roller in the American Rolling mill. He is a self-made man and his career has been one in which he has had to depend only upon his own ability and resource, which have been strong enough to win him contentment and a goodly share of prosperity. Mr. Elrick was born August 5, 1882, at Cedarville, Ohio, a son of David McCullough and Addie (Jameson) Elrick. When he was a lad the family moved to Alexandria, Ind., where David M. Elrick was successfully engaged in contract work, a line which he followed until his death, April 29, 1919. Mrs. Elrick still survives and makes her home at Middletown with her son, who has one sister, Mrs. William Stringhman, of this city. Andrew J. Elrick was educated in the public schools of Alexandria, Ind., where for a short time he was employed by his father in contract work, but eventually turned his attention to his present line, and in 1901 came to Middletown to accept a position with the American Rolling Mill company, with which he has been identified ever since. He now discharges the duties of roller, a position in which he has displayed physical endurance, marked intelligence and unremitting perseverance, so that he stands high in the favor of his employers as one to be depended upon. Mr. Elrick was married December 23, 1901, to Marie Dakin, born September 16, 1885, at Franklin, Ohio, daughter of Ira and
Elizabeth (Bolmer) Dakin. To this union there have been born four children: Irvin K.; Robert, who died in infancy; David McCullough and Betty Jane. Their pleasant and tastefully furnished home is located at 1101 Yankee road, and is frequently the meeting place of the wide circle of friends possessed by Mr. and Mrs. Elrick. They are consistent members of the United Presbyterian church, while Mr. Elrick belongs to the Loyal Order of Moose and the Eagles, and in political adherence supports the candidates and principles of the, Democratic party.
J. Charles Engel, a well-known farmer of Ross township, Butler county, Ohio, was born in that township, March 6, 1864, on the Engel homestead, in section 11. He is a son of John F. and Elizabeth (Heinlein) Engel. His parents were born in Germany, coming to this country about the year 1847, locating first in Cincinnati. They were married near Millville, Ohio, and were the parents of eight children: Maggie, who married Henry Stahlheber, of Hanover township; Christina, the widow of John Stahlheber of Hanover township; J. Charles; George J., unmarried; Mary, Elizabeth, William, and Annie, the last four deceased. Mr. Engel being a shoemaker by trade gave up this business a few years after his marriage, and bought a tract of ground in Ross township, whereon he erected a brick house and other buildings., then cleared the land, and improved and cultivated it, making a fine farm of his land, He was keeper of a toll gate for some time, and was sexton of the Bethel church, near Millville, Ohio, for a number of years. In 1901 he passed away at the age of seventy-two years, wife dying ten years later, aged eighty-one years. He was one of the old line Democrats of Ohio. They were both members of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran church. J. Charles Engel received his education in the schools of Ross township, and after his marriage to Minnie Schmitt, in 1892, he took up extensive farming. His wife is a daughter of John and Elizabeth Schmitt. Mr. Engel and his wife are the parents of: Carl E., a farmer in Ross township, who married Luella Walker, and have one child,-Gwendolyn; Adolph J., a farmer, who lives with his brother Carl; Marie M., J. Fred, Arthur, Ralph E., Walter G., and Edna L., who died in infancy. The children were all educated in the township schools. Adolph and Carl attended high school at Hamilton, and Marie, Fred and Arthur are graduates of Venice High School. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Engel lived on the homestead, removing thence in 1909 to Venice, Ohio, where they lived till 1917, when they built a handsome home on the estate. He is the owner of eighty-six acres of the old Engel estate, and is also the owner of 150 acres at Venice. On his farms he raises some very fine live stock and in connection with farming carries on a dairy business. The family are all members of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran church at Hamilton. He is a member of the Democratic party.
Ernst E. Erb. To that class of representatives of public-spirited citizenship who work with the full measure of manly strength for individual success but also unselfishly endeavor to promote the general prosperity, belongs Ernst E. Erb, city auditor of Hamilton.
He is a native of Hamilton and a son of Philip and Alice (Reynolds) Erb, who were also born in Hamilton. The father, a tinner by trade, eventually entered the Hamilton fire department, of which he was a faithful member for thirty-five years. There were five children in the family: Ernst E., of this notice; John, who married Marie Brittingham; Harry; George; and Laura, who married William Humbach and lives in Cincinnati. Ernst E. Erb has always considered it a matter of good fortune that he was able to live through his developing years in a progressive city, attributing his congenial surroundings to family and friends, early making and always retaining a large circle of the latter. A graded and high school education was his preparation for business and the only special advantages he ever had were those which he provided for himself. His first employment was with the Prudential Insurance company, with which he remained several years, and then entered the service of the Niles Tool company, a concern with which he remained until appointed deputy city auditor in 1908. He rose from this position to that of auditor, to which he was elected for four successive terms of two years each and is still capably discharging the duties of his office. His official record is a splendid one, in which he has demonstrated the possession of marked ability and the desire to discharge his duties in a manner that will not only be acceptable but beneficial to the community. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, The Protected Home Circle, Walnut Aid Society and the Crescent Aid Society and his religious connection is with St. John's Evangelical church. Mr. Erb married Miss Cora Atherton, of Hamilton, and four children have been born to them: Ruth, who is deceased; Mildred, attending school; Helen, who is deceased; and Dorothy, born in 1915. The pleasant family home is located at 1241 VanDerveer avenue.
Otto R. Ernst. Real recognition comes to those who have worthily striven to win approval honorably from the men who understand and can properly express their confidence. The career of Otto R. Ernst, office manager of the important dry goods house of Holbrock Brothers, at Hamilton, Ohio, mirrors on its surface much that is conducive to a high standard of business principles and little that can be criticised. In his present capacity he has demonstrated and is still proving his efficiency and high capability. Mr. Ernst was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, November 28, 1860. Left an orphan in infancy, he succeeded in gaining a public school education, and when still a lad secured a position as errand boy with the firm of A. E. Burkhardt, furriers of Cincinnati, and his subsequent service with that concern covered a period of twenty-six years. During this more than a quarter century of faithful and capable discharge of duty, he rose steadily in position until he reached the post of office manager. In 1907 he accepted an offer from the firm of Holbrock Brothers to come to Hamilton and take charge of its office force in the capacity of manager, and this post he still retains. Mr. Ernst is a member of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce and of the Retail Merchants' association, in which
latter organization his splendid abilities are utilized as a member of the executive committee. Mr. Ernst married Miss Emma Greiser, daughter of John and Magdaline Greiser, early settlers of Hamilton, and to this union there have been born three sons and one daughter: Otto A., aged twenty-five years, who attended the graded schools and the Catholic high school of Hamilton and is at present record clerk in the city gas office; Edwin, aged twenty-three years, who attended the same schools and is now secretary of the Saurs Adjustment company of Hamilton; Helen, a graduate of Hamilton High school, later attending Notre Dame academy; and Cornelius, aged eighteen years, attending high school. The family belongs to St. Stephen's Catholic church.
Charles W. Ernsting, who owns and conducts one of the best grocery stores in Butler county, is recognized as one of the most sagacious business men of Hamilton. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, September 11, 1864, a son of William Ernsting. Both William Ernsting and his wife were born in Germany, and after their marriage, they came to the United States, first stopping for a time in Pennsylvania, but later moving to Ohio and settling at Cincinnati, where both died. They had three children born to them, namely: August, who is married, has two children; Charles W., whose name heads this review; and Louise, who is now deceased, was married and had five children, Charles W. Ernsting attended the common schools of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was reared. Becoming self-supporting, he was employed by several Cincinnati grocers, but in 1885, he left Cincinnati, and for three years was on the road, learning the grocery business from another angle. Returning to Cincinnati, Mr. Ernsting was connected with the grocery trade of that city until April, 1896, when he came to Hamilton and established himself here as a grocer, since which time he has expanded his business and extended his trade until he is one of the leaders in his line in the city. Upon coming to Hamilton, Mr. Ernsting bought a property at 549 Franklin street, which he improved, and then he bought the adjoining lot at 551, building on the two lots. He then built on 440 Park avenue, and bought a residence at the corner of B and Franklin streets, later adding by purchase the lot next door. After the flood in 1913 he traded these last two properties for a quarter section of valuable land In Hanover township, which he rents to a tenant. Following this trade, Mr. Ernsting bought his present residence at 431 Ross avenue, and has made may improvements there, making it now one of the most comfortable houses in the city. While he was thus investing in residence property, Mr. Ernsting had bought the store building and lot at the corner of Main and D streets, where he has since continued to operate as a grocer, occupying this one stand for twenty-three years. November 18, 1897, Mr. Ernsting was united in marriage with Miss Della Brooks, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brooks, early settlers of Hamilton, Mrs. Brooks belonging to the Kimball family. Mr. and Mrs. Ernsting have two children, namely: Wilhelmina, who was born September 25, 1899, attended the grammar schools of Hamilton, and later took a business course
at a commercial college, was married .in September, 1918, to Howard Hemmerick, and they live at Hamilton; and Harry C., who was born June 15, 1906, is now attending the Hamilton grade school Mrs. Ernsting attends the services of the Baptist church, of which she is a member. While he votes the Republican ticket and gives to the candidates of his party a faithful support, Mr. Ernsting has never cared to take an active part in politics. He is a Shriner Mason, and also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Royal Arcanum. He has always prided himself upon being scrupulously upright in all of his dealings, and has studied his trade carefully and met its desires promptly, and so satisfactory has been the service he has rendered that a number of his original customers are retained to this day. Early learning the value of time and the wisdom of economy, he has become a man of means and a substantial factor in the community where he has been engaged in business for so many years.
Chalmers M. Ethel, son of George and Edith (Simons) Ethel, was born in Zanesville, Ohio, April 7, 1882, where much of his life has been spent. He has two sisters and two brothers: Emma who is Mrs. Henry Rison; Homer, Floyd, Goldie, all of whom living in Zanesville. His mother died in that city March 18, 1918; his father died at the home of his son in Middletown, Ohio, December 12, 1918. July 17, 1905, Mr. Ethel was married to Daisy Bidoe, daughter of George and Carrie Bidoe. Two children have been born to them: Charlotte, July 14, 1907, and Stanley Arthur, August 30, 1912. The daughter and mother possess great musical talent, and are pianists of more than usual excellence. Mrs. Ethel was born in Toledo, Ohio, August 9, 1887, and has one sister - Linnie. Her father died in Cincinnati, December 5 1918 and her mother still resides in that city. In 1911, Mr. Ethel came to Middletown from Zanesville to help start the East Side Rolling mill and is still employed at that place. He is a shearman skilled and very reliable in his work. Mr. Ethel owns one of the most valuable properties on Michigan boulevard, and takes pride in the fact that he has by good management and thrifty habits provided such a splendid home for his family. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics is a Democrat.
Bernard Even, who is one of the substantial farmers and good citizens of Union township, Butler county, was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, October 22, 1875, son of John and Elizabeth (Geers) Even, both of whom were born in Germany. The father came to the United States in early manhood, finding his first home in Hamilton county, Ohio. He was industrious and reliable and after working for a time as a farmhand, rented land for several years, then bought a place near Carthage, Ohio, on which he remained five years. For several years he resided near Sharon, after which he bought the small farm in Hamilton county on which he lived during the rest of his life, his death occurring in July, 1915. The mother of Mr. Even died in 1901. They had eight children, four of whom are living: Philomena, Elizabeth, Mary and Bernard. Bernard Even obtained his education in Hamilton county. He has
been a farmer all his life, working on the home farm until his marriage, after which he rented the farm his father had bought in 1886, and bought it in 1906. He now owns 103 acres, all well improved, and here is profitably carrying on general farming and raises some good grade stock. In 1906 he married Anna, daughter of Joseph Schwegman, and they have the following children: Sylvester, Mary, Joseph, Raymond, Leona, Charles, Rosella and Alma. Mr. Even and his family are well known in their neighborhood and are members of the Catholic church at Glendale. In politics he has always been a Democrat, but has never been a seeker for public office.
Mrs. Elizabeth Fabing. Among the well-known and highly esteemed women of Middletown, who has been a resident of this city for a number of years, is Mrs. Elizabeth Fabing, now residing in her pleasant home at 625 Curtis avenue. Mrs. Fabing was born and reared near Amanda, Ohio, a daughter of Peter and Lena (Rhoades) Troutwine, and received her education in the public schools. She made her home with her parents until her marriage, May 17, 1887, in the Methodist church at Middletown to John Fabing, the ceremony being performed by the Reverend Oglesby.
John Fabing was born in 1865 and for many years was well and favorably known in mercantile circles of Middletown where he was the proprietor of a prosperous shoe business, built up through his industry and good management, and was also the appraiser and a director of the Middletown Building association. His death occurred at the age of fifty-two years, July 12, 1917, he being sincerely mourned by a wide circle of acquaintances who had come to know his sterling qualities of mind and heart. Mr. and Mrs. Fabing were the parents of three children: Elizabeth, who became the wife of Arthur Kerschbaum; Paul John, who served in the great World war; and May, a beautiful young woman, whose death, February 4, 1917, was a terrible bereavement to her mother. Arthur Kerschbaum is a son of. Jacob and Barbara (Wagner) Kerschbaum, the former of whom is foreman of the Middletown Machine company while Arthur is bookkeeper for the Sorg Paper company. He and Mrs. Kerschbaum have a pretty little daughter Elizabeth Ann whose coming, in 1918, brought sunshine again into Mrs. Fabing's life and helped her in part to forget her great sorrow. Mr. Kerschbaum had seven sisters and brothers: Esther, Ralph, Freda, Paul, Carl, Elsie and Mark. Mrs. Fabing also acts as a mother to her niece and nephew, Charles and Mary Bogan, who have lost their parents, Robert and Rose (Troutwine) Bogan. These children are attending the Ohio State university, where Charles is studying chemistry and Mary is taking a classical course. Mrs. Fabing is the owner of an attractive modern home on Curtis avenue. She is a woman of many graces and accomplishments and an active member of the Lutheran church, and her charities extend to many worthy movements and institutions.
Henry Fall. One cannot follow the long career of Henry Fall without a renewed appreciation of those sterling homely qualities which, when allied with practical business sense, lift men from
obscurity and dependence to position and prosperity. His career has been one in which industry has played a leading part in changing his fortunes and his present standing in his community in a financial way is indicated by the ownership of a splendid property of 279 acres located on the Winchester pike, not far from Middletown, in Butler county. Mr. Fall was born near Middletown, Ohio, and is a son of Josiah and Susan (Smith) Fall. His parents were industrious and God-fearing people, who tilled their acres faithfully, made a good home for their family, and reared their children to lives of honesty and industry. Nine children were born to them; Henry; John W., who is a resident of California; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Daniel Weikle; David, who is deceased; Ella, who is the wife of Gus Hinkle, of Monroe, Ohio; Samuel, who is a resident of the west; Levina, who is the wife of O. Huffman, deceased; Emma, who is the wife of Rudolph Augsburger, of Monroe, Ohio; and Wilson, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in the neighborhood of Middletown on the Miltonville road. Henry Fall received his educational training in the district schools of his native locality, and the position which he occupied in the family made it necessary that a large part of his boyhood and youth be spent in hard work so that he could assist in the support and education of his younger brothers and sisters. When he embarked upon a career of his own, it was as a farmer, and this has been the vocation to which he has devoted his energies all his life. That he has been successful in his undertakings is shown in his present property, a handsomely improved tract of 279 acres, on which there are to be found a modern home with all comforts and conveniences, a commodious barn, fully equipped, and fine outbuildings to correspond. For the most part, the land is devoted to the growing of grain, of which it produces luxuriant crops, but Mr. Fall has also experimented successfully with the raising of live stock, a field from which he derives a goodly part of his income. Mr. Fall is a farmer of ability, combining hard, practical sense with a willingness to try new methods and adopt them when found practicable, and is adjudged an authority on certain matters pertaining to his occupation. He was married in 1885 to Mary Eliza, daughter of James and Maria (Brelsford) Schenck, and to this union there have been born four children: Charles, who is his father's assistant in the operation of the home farm, married Mabel, daughter of Ed and Maria (Gebhart) Smith; Alfred, who married Ida Guilder, and carries on farming in the same locality; and Earl, married Clara Gingrich of Jacksonboro, Ohio, and Hubert, who reside with their parents. Mrs. Fall has three brothers: William B., James R. and Ed Schenck, all of West Middletown. Politically Mr. Fall is a Democrat, but politics have played only a small part in his career, he having been content with the activities of his farm. He and Mrs. Fall are consistent members of the United Brethren church, and are known for their good citizenship and their generous support of all worthy causes.
Wilson Fall. Few families of the agricultural community of Butler county have been represented in this part of the Miami
valley longer than has that bearing the name of Fall. Among its members have been many of sound worth who have advanced to positions of prosperity in the various communities in which they have resided or still make their homes, and among these one who is well worthy of bearing the name is Wilson Fall, who operates a well-cultivated property on the Miltonville road, not far from the city of Middletown. This substantial and progressive agriculturist was born near Germantown, Ohio, October 28, 1870, his parents being Josiah and Susan (Smith) Fall, who both came of fine old pioneer stock. They were good, Christian people, who devoted themselves faithfully to the cultivation of their farm, to the making of a good home for their family and to the proper rearing of their children to truth and sobriety, and who were esteemed in their community. Nine children were born to them: Henry, who is farming 225 acres on the Winchester pike, not far from Middletown; John W., who is a resident of California; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Daniel Weikle; David, who is deceased; Ella, who is the wife of Gus Hinkle, of Monroe, Ohio; Samuel, who is a resident of the West; Levina, who is the wife of O. Huffman; Emma, who is the wife of Rudolph Augsburger, of Monroe, Ohio; and Wilson, of this review. Wilson Fall was given his educational training in the public schools of his native community and was thoroughly instructed by his father in the arts of agriculture, gaining his experience at first hand and having each lesson vividly impressed upon his mind through hard work and actual contact with his study. He naturally adopted agriculture as his vocation when he reached years of manhood, and to this occupation he has since devoted himself with success, being at this time the owner of a farm of eighty-five acres of highly productive land. Everything about this property gives ample evidence of the presence of good management and up-to-date methods, and the property has been enhanced, both in appearance and value by the erection of splendid barns and outbuildings, as well as the recently built brick bungalow, which forms an attractive home. Mr. Fall devotes his energies principally to the raising of grain, although he has also met with merited success in his breeding of live stock, for which he finds a ready market at good prices. His reputation in business circles for absolute integrity and fidelity has been gained through years of straightforward dealing and honorable living up to contracts. In political matters he is a Democrat and is staunch in his party's candidates and principles. With his family, he attends the United Brethren church, of which he and Mrs. Fall are members. Mr. Fall was united in marriage with Louisa, daughter of Nathan and Laura (Brelsford) Schenck, well known people of this county. She died on the farm in 1913 after years of devoted work at the side of her husband, leaving two children: Herbert and Velma, the latter now Mrs. Fred Sixt, who reside on the farm with their father, George Herbert Fanning, the subject of this sketch, has been a wide-awake citizen of Middletown for the past eighteen years, when he came from Cincinnati and identified himself with the
American Rolling Mill company as a roller. He comes from a sturdy ancestry. His father was born in Pittsburg, Pa.; his mother in Belfast, Ireland. His grandfather emigrated to this country and located in Pittsburg, Pa. The Fanning family is of French extraction and the original name was Vanning. Somewhere along the line of descent, "F" was substituted for "V." George Herbert, son of John and Margaret (Nicholson) Fanning, was born in Pittsburg, February 2, 1868. His father died in the spring of 1900; his mother, in October, 1894. He has a sister and three brothers: Lydia, Mrs. Fred Gardner, in Pittsburg; William, in Piqua, Ohio; Andrew, in Follansbee, Va.; Edward, near Pittsburg. June 21, 1890, our subject married Martha R. Grubb, daughter of Eli and Elmira (Hansell) Grubb, of Philadelphia, Pa. She was a native of Pennsylvania, born near Philadelphia, October 7, 1868. Her father served three years in the War of the Rebellion; her mother died in June, 1916, and she has two sisters, Irene, Mrs. Arthur Hill, in Boston; Ollie, Mrs. Ralph Weaver, in Kansas City, Mo. To Mr. and Mrs. Fanning were born four children: Franklin Herbert, Walter, Harry, deceased; and May Rena. Walter is a graduate of the Green School of Pharmacy at Indianapolis, Ind., also from the Middletown High school. He owns and conducts a large and well-stocked drug store at the corner of Sixth street and Yankee road, and by reason of his skill, courtesy and capability has established a fine business. Mr. Fanning owns a beautiful and well-arranged home, in which he takes great pride and which affords him, his family and friends much enjoyment. He is a member of the Episcopal church, and politically does not affiliate with any party but is liberal.
Samuel Farnsworth. For a number of years Samuel Farnsworth has made his home in Middletown and has been prominently identified with its upbuilding and prosperity, especially along industrial and agricultural lines. He is a man of superior business ability and sound judgment and has won that prosperity which is the merited reward of honorable effort. As a citizen he has been always thoroughly interested in whatever has tended to promote the welfare of the community in which he has resided. Mr. Farnsworth was born on a farm in Huron county, Ohio, November 2, 1870, a son of Henry and Lavina (Close) Farnsworth, formerly of Ashland county, Ohio, who rounded out their long and useful lives in Huron county, where they were highly respected as being among the best element of the agricultural class. As a youth Samuel Farnsworth attended the public schools of his native community, and while growing up on his father's farm became interested in the habits of the odd little animal known as the ferret. Continued interest and study led him to commence raising several of these little weasel-like creatures, first as pets, but later as a matter of business, and this enterprise he soon built up to large proportions. He estimates that during the period he was thus engaged that he raised in the neighborhood of 8,000 of these useful animals, which were shipped not only to all points allover the United States, but to various other countries, as well, some even being sent to Japan. The principal uses to which these ferocious creatures are put are rabbit-
hunting (for which they. must be muzzled) and rat-catching. The great flood which swept this part of the country robbed Mr. Farnsworth of his business in 1913, for it swept away all of his animals, and he knew too well the difficulty of gathering together enough to begin business anew. However, he had not all of his eggs in one basket, for he was interested in a fertilizer plant at Middletown, and to this he began to give more of his attention. Also, in 1905, he had purchased at Middletown the 125-acre property which was known as the old Wrenn farm, and on which he had been raising principally corn and alfalfa. He built a beautiful new home on this property, when the old house on another part of the farm burned he replaced it with a new one, and in addition made numerous other improvements, making this one of the most valuable and attractive properties in this part of the county. Also, he began the buying, fattening and sale of hogs, and this business has grown to a point where his annual shipments and sales approximate in the neighborhood of from 300 to 500 hogs. So that the loss of his ferret-raising business, which seemed like a great calamity at the time, has not turned out so disastrously in the light of subsequent results. Mr. Farnsworth is a self-made man. He started his career practically empty-handed and has gained his own success and advancement. His business methods have been straightforward and his prosperity has been won through the utilization of opportunities and through the exercise of his native talents and acquired ability. He is fraternally popular with his fellow-members in the local lodges of the Odd Fellows and the Elks, and his political support is given to the Republican party. Mr. Farnsworth was married in 1903 to Miss Lola Babcock, daughter of Oren W. and Etta (Searls) Babcock, natives of Lorain county, Ohio, and to this union were born two children: Oren W. and Samuel jr. Mrs. Farnsworth died September 28, 1919.
John W. Faucett. The substantial growth and development of the enterprise known as the Faucett Transfer and Storage company, of Hamilton, is another indication of the value of industry and fidelity when applied to legitimate undertakings and directed along well-defined channels of business. Starting in a small way, in 1895, under the impetus of its founder and proprietor, John W. Faucett, it has advanced into being one of Hamilton's leading establishments and has its recognized place in the business life of the city. John W. Faucett was born at Frankton, on Pipe Creek, Madison county, Ind., June 25, 1863, a son of David and Margaret Faucett. His father was born and reared at Hamilton, Ohio, but in young manhood moved to Frankton, Ind., and settled down to farming in that community for a time. He was married there, but subsequently moved to Springfield, Ohio, and later to Millville, at both of which places he continued his agricultural operations. His death occurred when he was fifty-nine years of age. He and his wife were the parents of two sons: Joseph, of Hamilton, and John W. John W. Faucett attended the graded schools of Millville, and for a time followed farming in association with his father, at Millville. Later he embarked in farming on his own account, as a renter of land at Fairplay, Ohio, but eventually decided that agricultural work was not his forte, and
accordingly came to Hamilton to seek some other field of endeavor. For two years he was engaged in ordinary teaming, with his own teams, but in 1895 started a transfer business, his equipment at that time consisting of a wagon and two horses. He was expeditious in carrying out his business, prompt, careful and efficient, and soon his business began to grow and he was forced to add to his equipages. In 1907 Mr. Faucett incorporated the business as the Faucett Transfer and Storage Company, with a plant at Seventh and Maple streets, and took E. C. Huffman into the enterprise as a partner. At this time the company owns many head of horses, several trucks and a modern barn and storage building at the above named address. The business has grown from practically nothing to be a $30,000 concern, examplifying the true spirit of progress with which Mr. Faucett is imbued. In 1906 he bought a property at 714 Ludlow street, where he resided for five years, and then purchased the property at Seventh and High streets, where he now lives with his family. In 1890 Mr. Faucett was united in marriage with Miss Minnie A. Mohler, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Mohler, of Fairplay, Ohio, and to this union there have been born two children: May, educated in the public schools and a graduate of the Hamilton High school, now the wife of Fred H. Van Sickle, of Middletown; and Herschel, a graduate of Hamilton schools, who married Miss Anna Levline, of Hamilton, and became identified with the Faucett Transfer and Storage company. Mr. Faucett and his family attend the Methodist church. He is interested in fraternal work, as a member of the Masons, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, in all of which he is popular. He is in charge of the horse department of the Butler County Agricultural Society, of which he has been a member for a number of years, and is generally accounted an excellent judge of horse-flesh. His political views make him a supporter of the principles of the Democrat party.
Robert C. Faust. In the late Robert C. Faust, Butler county had a citizen who contributed to its upbuilding a number of years of industrious work as an agriculturist and the development of a valuable and well-cultivated farm. Although many years have passed since he joined the great majority, July 1, 1890, his methodical and upright life is recalled as a useful lesson by the many friends and associates who survive him and who, like himself, recognize the value of principle as a valuable financial asset. Mr. Faust was born in Hamilton county, O., April 21, 1836, a son of Peter and Rebecca (Cunningham) Faust, of the same county. His father was originally a carriage and wagon maker of Hamilton county, later secured a farm in Warren county, and finally moved to Middletown, where both he and Mrs. Faust passed away. Their five children were: Robert C.; Lucy, deceased, who was the wife of James N. Schenck of Middletown; Amanda, deceased, who was the wife of William White, of Dayton; Carrie, deceased, who was the wife of the late Capt. Frank Helwig; and Abbie, the widow of John Nils, of Cincinnati. Robert C. Faust was educated at College Hill, O., and in his youth learned the trade of carriage and wagon maker in his
father's shop. Later he became a merchant at Pisgah, but disposed of his interests there when his father became a farmer and accompanied the elder man into the vocation of agriculture. He was married in Warren county, Ohio, to Miss Elvira Keever, of Union Village, O., a daughter of Thomas and Mary A. (Perine) Keever, both of Warren county, although the latter's parents were natives of Kentucky. Thomas Keever was a son of Abraham and Margaret (Jones) Keever, of Pennsylvania, the latter of Scotch descent. Abraham Keever, one of the pioneers of Warren county, settled in the heavy timber, cleared a farm and made a home, and rounded out a long and useful agricultural career. He and his wife were the parents of twelve children: Joe, Anthony, John, Philip, Joseph, Abraham, George, Thomas, Elizabeth, Lavina, Mary and Hannah. Thomas Keever lived at Union Village, in Warren county, where he owned a farm of 300 acres, but sold this in 1863 and thereafter lived at the homes of his children until his death in July, 1895. He was a Republican in his political views, and Mrs. Keever was a member of the Baptist church. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: John, who died at Lebanon, O., married Ruth Lamb; Mary Ellen, who married Benjamin Yeager, of Lebanon; James, a former farmer and county commissioner who retired to Lebanon and there died; Margaret, the widow of William Tullis, residing at Franklin; George, a member of Company A, 35th Regiment, O. V. I., who met a soldier's death on the battlefield of Chickamauga during the Civil war; Mrs. Faust; and Martha, deceased, who was the wife of James Thompson, a Civil war veteran. In 1873 Mr. and Mrs. Faust moved to Madison township, Butler county, and bought the Isaac Gephart farm of eighty acres, in section 35. There they made numerous improvements, developing an excellent property, and Mr. Faust continued to follow general farming until the time of his death. He was a Republican in his political affiliation and a man who was universally esteemed wherever known. He and Mrs. Faust became the parents of three children: Elmore C., born March 9, 1870, who formerly was employed at the tool works at Hamilton, but now a grocer at Germantown, married Mary Swartzel, and has one son, Robert, married Myrtle Witz July 21, 1915; Mary, born September 6, 1874, who died in 1876; and Clarence K., born August 25, 1879, who has always remained on the home farm, married November 19, 1902, Miss Helen Banker, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Barkelow) Banker, of Madison township. Mr. Banker was a farmer of that township, where he died in 1888, and Mrs. Banker now resides at Memphis, Tenn. There were three children in the Banker family: Bertha, who married Frank Selby, of Madison township; Wilson, a salesman of Memphis, Tenn., who married Hattie Chamberlin; and Helen, Mrs. Faust. Mrs. Robert C. Faust, who survives her husband and resides on the home farm, is one of the best-known residents of Madison township, where she has numerous friends.
Timothy D. Fessenden. For a quarter of a century passengers traveling between the cities of St. Louis and Cincinnati, on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad, were known to Timothy D. Fessenden, for during that long period he had a passenger run between those points.
In this long service, his unfailing courtesy, efficiency and general fidelity to the interests of his road made him one of the best known conductors on the line, as well as one of the most popular and when he retired, in 1916, countless inquiries were made as to his whereabouts and welfare.
Mr. Fessenden was born near Hamilton, Ohio, in October, 1851, a son of Benjamin Franklin Fessenden, born October 16, 1816, at Winchester, Mass., and Maria E. (McNeil) Fessenden, of Butler county, Ohio, whom he married September 12, 1844. She was a daughter of Lazarus and Jane McNeil, of Pennsylvania, who were early settlers of near Symmes Corners, Butler county, where Mr. McNeil was a farmer, and where both he and his wife died in 1860. The McNeil children were: Nancy A., who married Dr. Lawson Smith, of Hamilton; Sarah Jane; Maria Elizabeth, who became Mrs. Fessenden; Martha, who married Thomas Mitchell, of Hamilton; Cornelius W. H., who married Maria H. Gaston, of Mount Healthy, Ohio; and Rebecca Caroline, who married L. H. Vinnedge.
Benjamin F. Fessenden was a son of Timothy Fessenden, who was born June 6, 1773, and died October 22, 1834. He married Submit Hunt, of Winchester, Mass., born May 17, 1775, and they became the parents of seven children, as follows: Reuben, born February 1, 1801; Rufus, born August 7, 1802; Timothy, born August 22,1804; John, born September 30, 1806; Benjamin F., born June 5, 1809; Maria, born January 4,1812; and Benjamin F., II, born October 16, 1816.
The parents of Timothy D. Fessenden were killed in a railroad accident at Cumminsville, O., September 28, 1858. They were honest and honorable, God-fearing, agricultural people and faithful members of the Presbyterian church, and were the parents of six children: an infant daughter, born in 1845; Mary F., born September 5, 1846, married March 17, 1869, John A. McConnell, who died July 23, 1901, and she died October 12, 1918; Lazarus, born June 10, 1849, died August 16, 1850; Timothy Dwight, of this notice; Lazarus F., born March 18, 1854, married September 5, 1877, Margaret Brown of Sedalia, Mo.; and Jennie E., born May 14, 1857, died August 3, 1860.
The first of the Fessenden family to come to this country was John Fessenden, who, with his wife, Jane, emigrated from County Kent, England, and settled at Cambridge, Mass., in about the year 1636. They had land at Cambridge and Charlestown, John Fessenden was admitted as a freeman in 1641, and both were members of the Church at Cambridge in 1658, the name on the Church record being "Fezington." John Fessenden was a selectman at Cambridge and died in 1666, while his wife Jane survived until January, 1682.
As they had no issue it was necessary to send to England for heirs to the estate, and Nicholas and Hannah Fessenden, supposed to be brother and sister, and nephew and niece of John Fessenden, came to this country. Timothy Dwight Fessenden is of the sixth generation of this family. Mr. Fessenden was but seven years of age when his parents died, and he went to make his home with his Grandfather McNeil until the latter's death in 1860, when he took up his residence at the home of his uncle, Cornelius McNeil, where he lived until 1865. He secured his education in the private school of Professor Starr, at Seven Mile, and at Hamilton,
Capt Charles H. Fessenden
O., and in 1868 went to Sedalia, Mo., where for two years he was a clerk in a shoe store. Being naturally attracted to railroad work, in 1870 he secured a position with the Missouri, Kansas & Texas railroad, running between that point and Parsons, Kans., as baggageman and freight conductor. November 1, 1875, he went to work for the O. & M. Railroad, out of St. Louis, as brakeman, holding that post until 1877, when he became freight agent at Flora, Ill. In 1882 he was given a passenger conductor run on the Baltimore & Ohio, or the line that later became a part of that system, running between St. Louis and Cincinnati, and for twenty-five years continued to perform his duties faithfully, retiring February 19, 1916, since which time he has resided in his comfortable home at Seven Mile. Mr. Fessenden was married February 1, 1876, to May J., daughter of Isaac and Malinda (Ray) Snively, the former born August 20, 1820, and the latter a daughter of Philip and Eleanor Ray, of Butler county. Mr. and Mrs. Snively were married June 1, 1848. The first of the Snively family to come to this country was John Snively, of Switzerland, born in 1659, who fled to the American colonies to escape religious persecution. He settled in Lancaster county, Pa., in 1714, was naturalized at Philadelphia, October 14, 1729, and died in 1743. He left one son, Henry Snively, sr., born in 1771, and died November 2, 1826. He married Catherine, daughter of Henry and Barbara Hershey, born February 28, 1776, and died August 17, 1847, who had come as a child to Butler county. Henry and Catherine Snively had the following children: Joseph, born August 28, 1795, married December 14, 1817 to Eleanor Stott1er, born August 1, 1793, who died July 20., 1819, and after her death again married; Henry, jr., married first Miss Clark, second Catherine Hurst and third Isabella Wills; David, born April 30, 1804; married October 30, 1828, Sophia Falls; Jacob, born April 20, 1804; Samuel, born March 13, 1806, married Adeline Leigh; Elizabeth, married Henry Flickinger; Hannah, married James Johnson; Barbara, married first Henry Newcomer and second Samuel Nixon; Benjamin, born in December, 1812; and Isaac C., born August 20, 1820, died September 23, 1869. Isaac C. Snively, father of Mrs. Fessenden, was educated in the home schools of his native locality and lived on the home place for a number of years, becoming one of the well-to-do agriculturists of his community and finally removing to Seven Mile, lived there for a few years, later removing to the old home place where he lived retired and died there. He was an influential citizen and a Republican in politics, and Mrs. Snively was a member of the Presbyterian church. They were the parents of the following children: Ellen Catherine, born April 26, 1849, who died May 8, 1850; Andrew Oscar, born November 18, 1850, who married Kate, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Dransfield of Butler county, and married, second, Mrs. Beatrice Throckmortin; Mrs. Fessenden; Charles Anderson, born June 29, 1855, who died February 24, 1863; Hannah Maria, born October 20, 1857, died October 31, 1915; Ella Malinda, born September 20, 1860, who married Joseph Clark and died September 10, 1893; Henry Clay, born May 20, 1862, married August 16, 1894, Luverna Yager; Phillip Ray, born November 22,1865, married
Emma Horner; and Fannie Fern, born November 22, 1865, who died December 5, 1867. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Fessenden: Isaac F., born September 20, 1878, who died March 16, 1879; Edwin Allen, born August 14, 1882; and Charles Horace, born January 28, 1885. Edwin Allen Fessenden was educated in the public schools, at St. Louis Manual Training school and at the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he was graduated in 1904. After spending one year at Springfield as a mechanical engineer, he was appointed to the University of Missouri as assistant professor of mechanical engineering, and in 1916 became professor of mechanical engineering in the State College of Pennsylvania. He married Abigail Sayward Roper, of Springfield, Ill., who died December 31, 1915, leaving one child, Mary E. For his second wife, Mr. Fessenden married Louisa French Matheney, also of Springfield. Charles Horace Fessenden attended the public schools, the St. Louis Manual Training school, and the University of Missouri, and after his graduation from the last-named, in 1906, went to New York City. He was with the Aultman-Taylor Manufacturing company of Mansfield, Ohio, for one year, and was then appointed professor of mechanical engineering in the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor. In June, 1917, he enlisted in the United States service and received his commission as captain in the ordnance department, and was located at the Frankfort Arsenal, Philadelphia, Pa. Timothy D. Fessenden is a Chapter Mason at Flora, Ill., and a member of the Commandery at Olney, Ill., and his sons are also members of this order. The entire family belongs to the Presbyterian church, which the parents attend at Seven Mile.
Mathew Fichter was born in Reily township, Butler county, December 7, 1877, a son of George and Mary Catherine Fichter, the former coming to this country from Germany at the age of nineteen, the latter from Alsace-Lorraine when she was nine years old. They were married in Millville, Ohio, and for a few years lived in that town where he followed the trade of carpentering. Subsequently they removed to Morrison, Ill., where he worked as a cabinet maker, a trade he had learned in Germany. After a few years he returned to Millville, thence to St. Charles, Ohio, finally locating in Reily, where he worked as a carpenter to the end of his days. He and his wife were charter-members of the German Reformed church, Millville, and were highly thought of in the community. To them were born the following children: Jacob, Anna, Fred, John, Dora, William, Mathew, and Albert, the last named now deceased. George Fichter died in 1907 at the age of seventy-two and is survived by his widow, who still lives at Reily at the venerable age of eighty-three. Mathew Fichter accomplished his early education in the common schools at Reily, and after leaving school engaged in the butcher business for a period of eleven years. By the exercise of thrift and foresight during that period he was enabled to embark in business for himself, buying out the general store business of H. L. Roll. This soon proved a paying venture and he took into partnership his brother William, and Clarence Evans; the three together have enlarged the business in such a way as to be a credit to themselves
and a real asset to the town. He is prominent in all local activities, both civic and social, and fraternally holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In 1916 he married Miss Hazel E. Siebert, daughter of Frank X. Siebert of Brookville, Indiana, and they have one daughter, Mary Ellen, aged three years.
William Fichter, one of the substantial merchants of Reily, Ohio, was born in that town, a son of George and Mary Catherine Fichter, mention of whom has been made in the biographical sketch of Mathew Fichter. William's educational training was acquired in the common schools at Reily. After leaving these he took up the calling of butcher and intermittently that of druggist and carpenter. In addition to these vocations he occupied himself with teaching in the local schools for a period of eleven years, inculcating the principles of Americanism in the youth of his generation. Following this he entered into business with his brother, acquiring a one-third partnership in a general store at Reily, where he brought into the business the same insight and judgment that he had displayed so successfully in his previous efforts. Politically he is in sympathy with the Jeffersonian doctrines and has served as postmaster for ten years in his home city. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and has shown a true patriotism in all his activities connected with the war. On June 23, 1917, he married Miss Mabel Bell, a daughter of Robert and Rebecca Bell of Hamilton, Ohio, and to them has been born one son, Robert Francis.
George W. Finkbone, one of the enterprising and progressive farmers and highly esteemed citizens of Butler county, has been a life-long resident of this part of the Miami valley, where he is widely and favorably known. The owner of a well-cultivated and highly improved farm located on Brown's run, near Middletown, he brings to his labors a scientific touch that enables him to produce bounteous crops, thereby placing him among the men of ability whose operations are serving to maintain high agricultural standards in this part of the Miami valley region. Mr. Finkbone was born on his father's farm in Butler county, Ohio, February 22, 1867, his parents being John W. and Mary Finkbone. His father, John W. Finkbone, was born in Berks county, Pa., May 22, 1832, a son of John and Susanna (Smith) Finkbone, natives of Wurtemberg, Germany. His maternal great-grandfather, George McNealy, served as a soldier during the War of 1812 and lost his life by drowning during the engagement of Lake Erie, while a further military touch is given the family history by the splendid record of John B. Long, Mr. Finkbone's uncle, who fought four years as a Union soldier during the Civil war. John W. Finkbone was but ten years of age when brought by his parents from Berks county, Pa., to Ohio, in 1842, the family settling in Butler county, where the youth grew to manhood and applied himself to the pursuits of agriculture. He continued to be engaged therein during the rest of his active life, but is now retired and makes him home with his son, George W. He has been active in affairs in his neighborhood, and for nine years served as a member of the board of directors of the school board. There were ten children in his family: John W., Mary E., Tobias L., Ezra, Sarah
Jane, George W., Jacob, Susanna, .Mattie and Amanda. George W. Finkbone secured his education in the country schools and as a youth was trained to agricultural pursuits. His entire life has been devoted to the tilling of the soil, and he is now the owner of a handsome property, and as a citizen and successful farmer is respected by all who know him. He married Mary E. Slade, who was born in Butler county, daughter of John Wesley and Margaret (Barnhart) Slade, August 12, 1903, and they are the parents of two sons: John, born in 1906; and Tobias, born in 1907. As a citizen Mr. Finkbone has discharged faithfully every duty devolving upon him, and has rendered signal service to his community, having served as a member of the board of directors of the Poplar Ridge school, District No. 13, for eleven years. He is a Republican in his political tendencies, although not an active politician as the term is generally understood. He was reared in the faith of the Baptist church, of which he has always been a member and to which Mrs. Finkbone also belongs.
First & Merchants National Bank of Middletown. Although changes have been made in the names of some of the really important financial institutions of Middletown, several of these are in reality the same concerns which had their inception during the early days of the city's era of business growth, and which have not only profited by the municipality's expansion and prosperity but have themselves been contributing factors to the progress that has made such a growth possible. Leading among these is the Merchants National bank, the largest financial institution of the city and one which has developed along conservative, although progressive lines. This substantial banking house was founded in 1868-1869 by a partnership consisting of Charles F. Gunckel, F. P. Loehr and J. M. Loehr, the object being to carryon a brokerage business under the firm style of Gunckel, Loehr & Co. This style continued until 1872, when the firm merged into the Merchants National bank, an institution which had an original capital of $50,000, Mr. Gunckel becoming president and F. P. Loehr, cashier. Mr. Gunckel remained as the president until 1891, when he disposed of his holdings to Paul J. Sorg, who was made president, and who faithfully, honorably and efficiently discharged the duties of that office until his death, in May, 1902. At that time Mr. Sorg's son, Paul A. Sorg, was chosen president, and held that office until his death, when he was succeeded by the present incumbent, John W. Boyd, a man of known ability and prestige in banking circles of Ohio. The institution was rechartered by the United States Government in 1912 and October 1, 1919, this institution was merged with the First National bank of Middletown, and is now known as the First and Merchants National bank of Middletown.
Elmer M. Fisher. Included among the successful and well-known farmers of Butler county is found Elmer M. Fisher, who has passed his entire life within the confines of the county and has found success and contentment in engaging in the pursuits of the soil. He belongs to the progressive element of the younger generation, is modern in his ideas, and in his citizenship is constructive,
always being in favor of those movements which promise to advance his locality. Mr. Fisher was born at Blue Ball, Butler county, Ohio, December 28, 1879, a son of James H. Fisher. His father was born at Seven Mile, this county, in 1839, and grew up in that community, where he attended the home schools. As a young man he moved to Blue Ball, where he married Emma, daughter of Jeremiah and Mary (Bond) Squires, natives of New Jersey. Mr. Squires was a blacksmith by trade and conducted a shop at Blue Ball, where his death occurred in 1861, while his widow survived him until 1890. They were members of the Presbyterian church and people well and favorably known in their community during their day. They were the parents of four children: Charlotte, deceased, who was the wife of the late Joseph Smith; Emma, who became Mrs. Fisher; Edward, a blacksmith at Blue Ball, who succeeded to his father's business; and Belle, the wife of Alonzo Wolf, of Topeka, Kans. After their marriage, James H. Fisher and his wife located at Blue Ball, where Mr. Fisher engaged in blacksmithing, and for some time was associated in business with his father-in-law. He was highly esteemed in his community as a man of integrity and a good citizen, and left behind many friends at the time of his death in 1900. He was a strong Democrat in his political adherence, and he and Mrs. Fisher were devout members of the Presbyterian church, to the various movements of which they were generous donators. They had four children, as follows: Etta, who is the wife of Erastus Stewart, of Middletown; Charles, who married Mary Bond, educated at Lebanon, Ohio, taught schools for several years, successfully passed a civil service examination, and went to Topeka, Kans., in the employ of the Santa Fe railway, being subsequently called to Washington, D. C., where he has resided for the past twenty years; Aaron L., of Miamisburg, Ohio, who married Alice Cunningham, of Virginia; and Elmer M., of this notice. Elmer M. Fisher attended the home schools during the winter months in boyhood while assisting his father in the work of blacksmithing during the summers. He grew up as a farmer and at the time of attaining his majority entered upon his career as an agriculturist, a vocation which he has followed with success ever since. Mr. Fisher was married November 16, 1900, to Allie May, daughter of Fielding G. and Catherine (Myers) Tullis, of Lemon township. A review of the Tullis family will be found in the sketch of Fielding G. Tullis, elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are the parents of one son, Paul A., born at Blue Ball, March 12, 1899. Following his marriage, Mr. Fisher spent about ten years on different farms in Lemon township, but eventually settled on his present property, which he purchased. This sixty-five acre tract was the old Peter Shultz farm, and upon it Mr. Fisher has made numerous valuable improvements. He has remodeled the house, installing a Delco lighting system, built a substantial garage and in other ways given evidence of his progressive spirit and enterprise. At this time he has forty-five acres under cultivation, and upon it raises considerable tobacco, in addition to doing general farming. He also has some dairy stock, and in all departments of his work has made a marked success, owing to his industry and his
thorough knowledge of the occupation to which he has devoted his life's energies. He is essentially a self-made man, having worked his own way to his present position, is a thorough student of his calling, and is progressive in his every move. He has taken an interest in civic affairs for some years, and has served as school director. His political support is given to the Democratic party.
John Watts Fisher. Steady application to the development of his abilities along a single line has brought about the success of John Watts Fisher, who has long been connected with the American Rolling mill, at Middletown. He is of English ancestry, and from forefathers who often worked under discouraging conditions inherits an obliging nature and keen sense of humor which lubricates his working wheels and brings him in touch with the pleasures, as well as profits, of existence. Mr. Fisher was born in England, May 12, 1868, a son of Daniel and Tabitha (Watts) Fisher. He was one and one-half years of age when he came to the United States with his parents who located at Niles, Ohio, January 4, 1870, his mother dying there not long afterward, June 6, 1870. His father still survives as a resident of Middletown. John W. Fisher attended the public schools of Niles, Ohio, and in 1883 went to Martin's Ferry, where he began work in the rolling mill at that place. In March, 1901, he first came to Middletown, but after a few years removed to Steubenville and continued until 1911, then returning to Middletown to take his present position as a roller with the American Rolling Mill company. He is a skilled and trustworthy workman, possessed of much capacity for close application to his duties, and is therefore valued highly by the company of which he is a representative. At Cincinnati, Ohio, September 26, 1901, Mr. Fisher married Clara Price, who was born December 25, 1879, a daughter of Edward and Sarah (Ball) Price. Her father died December 28, 1892, at Cincinnati, while her mother still lives and is a resident of Middletown. There were five children in the Price family: Mary, a resident of Middletown; Will R., also of this city; George, of Steubenville, Ohio; Clara, now Mrs. Fisher; and Ruth, who died January 27, 1910. Both Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were devotedly attached to Mrs. Fisher's sister, Ruth, a beautiful and accomplished young lady, whom they took into their home at Steubenville and did everything that loving care could do to restore her to health. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Fisher there have come four children: Ethel Marguerite, who was born July 24, 1902; Mildred, who was born July 7, 1904; Edwin, who was born June 24, 1907; and John, jr., born November 3, 1910. All of the children display marked musical talent and are being encouraged to develop their abilities in this direction. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are consistent members of the Methodist church, and support its movements, Mrs. Fisher being particularly active in religious and charitable work. She is also prominent in lodge affairs at Middletown, where she was first worthy matron of Prosser Chapter, of the Order of the Eastern Star, an office which she held two years. She continues to display an interest in fraternal work, and at present is secretary of her chapter, in which she has a wide circle of friends. Mr. Fisher is a Mason and a member of the
Elks, and also belongs to the Amalgamated Association of Iron Workers. His political adherence is with the Republican party. In 1916 Mr. Fisher built an attractive home in Middletown, the doors of which are hospitably open at all times to the many friends of the family.
James Fitton. Among the old and honored residents of the Miami valley, and especially among those who are natives of this region, few are better known or more highly esteemed than is James Fitton, secretary of the People's Deposit, Improvement and Loan company, a building and loan association of Hamilton. Although a man of intense American spirit, and himself a veteran of the Civil war in which he and others of his family rendered signal service to the country, some of the admirable traits which mark his character and have made him one of the most prominent and useful citizens of his locality, are doubtless traceable to the proverbially sturdy, vigorous and enterprising English ancestry from which he is descended. Mr. Fitton was born at West Charleston, Montgomery county, Ohio, April 5, 1843, a son of James and Hannah B. (Fitton) Fitton. James Fitton the elder was born in England, and, with his brothers William and Samuel, came to the United States in young manhood. Hearing of a wagon manufacturer of Cincinnati named Fitton, who was also from England, the brothers made their way to that city, where James Fitton secured employment with his namesake and learned the wagon making trade. There, also, he met the daughter of his employer, Hannah B. Fitton, and they were subsequently married. Of the brothers, Samuel remained in Cincinnati, where his death occurred, while William, after a short stay at Charleston, went to Dayton, and there his death occurred. On leaving Cincinnati, James Fitton the elder located at West Charleston, where he and his brother were for a time the proprietors of a store, but William Fitton disposed of his interest therein later, and in April, 1844, James Fitton removed to Hamilton, where he started a wagon making industry on the present site of the Third Ward school building. He continued to be connected with this enterprise during the remainder of his life, dying suddenly in 1846 when he had before him an exceptionally bright business future, being possessed in marked degree of the qualities that combine to make for success and commercial prestige. He and his wife were the parents of the following children: William, deceased, who lived at Piqua, married Nancy Van Vacter, who survived him as a resident of Hamilton; Thomas, deceased, who was a banker and merchant of Hamilton, married Lida Brant; Hannah, deceased, who was the wife of W. T. Crawford; D. W., deceased, who was a member of the 167th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served in West Virginia during the Civil war; Samuel D., a banker of Hamilton, now and for years president of First National, who married Mary Falconer; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of S. C. Belden, of Hamilton; Frances, deceased, who was the wife of J. P. Peck, a banker and real estate operator, both dying in California; Rachael, deceased; and James, of this notice. James Fitton the younger was educated in the private school of Nathaniel Furman, and upon completing his
studies in 1857 secured a position as clerk in the grocery of W. C. Millspaugh, on High street, Hamilton. Next, he turned his attention to the broom making industry and was thus employed when the Civil war broke out. Answering the call for volunteers, he enlisted in the 35th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company C, under Capt. John S. Earhart and Col. Ferdinand Van Diver. This regiment, composed of Butler, Preble, Montgomery and Warren county men, left September 26, 1861, for Paris, Ky., where the regiment was divided, and Mr. Fitton went with a part of his company to Kaiser's station. In January, 1862, the regiment was joined by the 18th Regulars, the 9th Ohio Volunteer Infantry and the 2d Minnesota Infantry, this being General Thomas' first brigade. After taking part in the Mill Creek fight, Mr. Fitton was invalided home with typhoid fever, but rejoined his regiment in the following April at Pittsburg Landing, and subsequently participated in the Siege of Corinth and after the taking of Corinth the Regiment, with others, marched back all the way to Louisville, Ky., and later in the engagement at Perryville, where Bragg's troops were encountered. After service at Louisville, the Regiment marched south, fought at Chickamauga, September 19 and 20, and in the following November went into action at Missionary Ridge. Subsequently Mr. Fitton saw hard fighting through Georgia, including the Siege of Atlanta, and owing to the expiration of the three years' enlistment most all the regiment were honorably discharged while on their way to Cincinnati by steamboat. In the absence of the Sergeant-Major on recruiting service, James Fitton was appointed to fill that position just after the capture of Missionary Ridge. He was then ordered to Chattanooga, and later to Nashville and Louisville and Cincinnati, with Captain Kyle and Lieutenant Miller, and at the latter place purchased civilian clothes, and arrived at Hamilton, in September, 1864. After a short visit at his brother's hat store he returned to his mother's home. The brave young soldier became bookkeeper, in April, 1865, in the Cincinnati commission houses of Fox-Wardlow company, a position which he retained one year, and for three years following was with the Schlosser-Beck company. Coming then to Hamilton, he associated himself with his brother, D. W. Fitton, in the dry goods business at Third and High streets, but disposed of his interests therein in 1883. In 1883 he had engaged in the insurance and real estate business, and continued in this line with success until 1893, when he entered the Building Association employment and became on March 27, 1893, the secretary of The People's Deposit, Improvement and Loan company, a position which he has since held. His offices are located at No. 205 Rentschler building, and he has various other business interests, being one of the prominent figures in the business and financial life of the city. His home he makes in his own flat building, at Dayton and Tenth streets. Mr. Fitton is a popular comrade of Wetzel Compton Post, G. A. R. He is a liberal contributor to the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he holds membership, and was formerly a Sunday school teacher superintendent and a leader in the choir for many years. In his earlier years he indulged his fondness for travel, and in 1871 toured
England and the continent of Europe. In 1877, because of ill health, he again went to Europe, accompanied by his wife, and spent seven months mostly at Geneva, Switzerland, and in 1909 he and Mrs. Fitton visited Holland, Denmark, Sweden and Norway, and had two lovely views of the Sun at Midnight. In 1867 Mr. Fitton married Minnie, daughter of Freeman Flanders, of Richmond, Ind., and to this union there was born one child: Mabel. She married Rev. Samuel A. Stephan, minister of Lindenwald Methodist Episcopal church and now of the West Park Avenue Methodist Episcopal church of Columbus, Ohio, and they are the parents of one son: James Fitton Stephan. Mr. Fitton's second marriage occurred in 1873, when he was united with Katherine, daughter of Jacob Shank of Butler county. She died in May, 1915, having borne two children, both of whom died in infancy. At this date (1919) James Fitton is apparently in excellent health and quite active.
Samuel Dustin Fitton, president of the First National bank died at 10:40 on the morning of Saturday, December 6, 1920, at his home on North Third street, after an illness of three weeks. Mr. Fitton had not been in robust health for several years, but there were no indications that he was facing a fatal illness, even when stricken. It was not until his illness had continued for almost two weeks that there were serious indications that it would terminate fatally. The funeral of Mr. Fitton was held at the family home on Monday morning, December 8, Dr. Charles E. Schenk, of Cincinnati, a former pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church and a personal friend of Mr. Fitton conducting the services, which were largely attended. These services were simple but deeply impressive. The burial took place in Greenwood cemetery. One of the greatest ambitions of Mr. Fitton was to leave to Hamilton as a monument to himself and the bank over "which he presided so successfully for so many years, a handsome bank building. Plans for the erection of this building were well under way at the time Mr. Fitton was fatally stricken. It is believed now that the directors of the bank will proceed in the erection of this structure as a monument to their faithful president.
Val Fitzgerald. There are few men who can have the privilege of a pleasant lifetime in one community. Such has been the fortune of Mr. Fitzgerald. He was born in Liberty township in 1863, that year when success was most remote from the northern arms. His parents, Prior and Catherine Fitzgerald, were both natives of Butler county; the former having been born in 1810, rounding out four-score years of a useful life in this same county; the latter, born in 1823, died at the age of 79. Prior Fitzgerald was a well-known farmer and trader and was one of those hardy pioneers to whom our country owes so much. His family comprised five children: Taylor, Emma, Bruce, Charles and Val, the subject of this sketch. To the public schools of Butler county he is indebted for the elements of knowledge which afterwards he developed into the science of farming, buying, after his mother's death, in 1902, the old homestead shrined in the memories of his youth and early manhood. The farm totals ninety-seven acres, every acre of which is developed to the
highest degree of productivity under the able management of father and son. To some extent he occupies himself with stock raising but for the most part does general farming with marked success. He is a Democrat and fraternally allied to the Knights of Pythias, being a member of the Middletown Lodge of that order. He is deeply interested in the activities of that organization and has progressively filled every lodge office, finally attaining to the signal honor of delegate to the Grand Lodge at Columbus and Dayton. In 1891, Mr. Fitzgerald was united in marriage with Ella, daughter of John and Mary (Sheeley) Green of whom mention is made elsewhere in the sketch of Val L. Green which appears in this work. One child was born to Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald but it died in infancy.
Frank H. Flenner. A number of the progressive agriculturists of Butler county are recognizing the profits to be realized from intelligent specialization along certain lines of agricultural work, and one who has met with success in this direction is Frank H. Fenner, of St. Clair township. While what would be generally termed a general farmer, Mr. Flenner has given particular attention to melon growing, and another important department in his work is the raising of several kinds of live stock. Mr. Flenner was born at Darrtown, Butler county, Ohio, February 13, 1862, and belongs to one of the old and highly respected families of this community. It was largely a matter of chance that brought the Flenner family to St. Clair township. At an early date in the history of Butler county, Daniel Flenner, the grandfather of Frank H., a native of Pennsylvania, left that state with his brothers, Solomon and John, and floated down the Ohio river in search of a suitable location upon which to settle and make a home. With them they brought several horses, and when the boat was anchored opposite the present site of Cincinnati, the horses managed to get loose, and wandered off into the woods. Daniel Flenner, while searching for them, became struck with the possibilities of the country hereabouts, and accordingly entered land, built a log cabin in the woods, and settled down to the task of clearing and cultivating a farm from the dense timber. He subsequently built a home on Locust Hill, near Woodsdale, and continued clearing his land, and at one time was the owner of 1,000 acres. In his later years he went to near Westfield, Edgar county, Ill., where he secured land, built a brick house and other buildings, and continued to farm until his death in 1858. He was the father of eight children: Adam, who was born in Pennsylvania; Isaac, who was a farmer in Illinois, where he died; Robert, a railroad conductor who met his death in a wreck at Connersville, Ind.; and Harriet, Lizzie, Mary, Lannie and Peggy, who all died in Illinois. Adam Flenner, the father of Frank H., had only a limited education in his youth and grew to manhood in Illinois. Later he moved to the vicinity of Darrtown, Butler county, where he resided for fifteen years, at the end of which time he bought a part of the old homestead of 137 acres and continued to cultivate it until his death in 1899, at the age of eighty-six years. He was a Democratic voter, and a man of some influence in his community, where he served as township trustee. His first wife was a Miss Wehr, and they had six children:
Chambers, deceased; Nathan, a retired farmer making his home at Darrtown; Louis, deceased; Harriet, who resides at Darrtown; Lavanda, the widow of John Clements, of Hamilton, Ohio; and Catherine, deceased, who was the wife of Cornelius Irvin, of Darrtown. Mr. Flenner was married the second time, to Ann Hemrich, who was born at Baltimore, Md., daughter of George Hemrich, who came to Ohio about 1845. Mrs. Flenner died in 1907, at the age of seventy-five years. She and Mr. Flenner were the parents of five children: Ollie, who was killed at the Big Four railroad crossing in 1878; Frank H. ; James, who is engaged in the threshing business at Trenton, Ohio; Belle, the wife of George Cook, of Westchester, Ohio; and Lizzie, the wife of James Weher, of Overpeck, Ohio. Frank H. Flenner attended school at Woodsdale and grew up on the home farm, where he has always made his home. In 1900 he purchased ninety-one acres of the homestead, and in the same community is operating 209 acres which he rents. He is raising Chester White hogs, mixed cattle and draft horses, carries on farming in a general way, and specializes in the raising of melons, selling the greater part of his product at Middletown. Mr. Flenner and his family have been well known in the county during the past twenty years. He is accounted a man of sterling integrity and a good business man, and as a citizen has always displayed his public spirit. He votes the Democratic ticket and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In November, 1884, Mr. Flenner married Sarah B., daughter of Lewis Boswell, formerly of Cincinnati, but later a horse dealer of St. Clair township. To Mr. and Mrs. Flenner there have been born three children: Stella, who died March 24, 1913, was the wife of Lewis Rupp, a farmer of St. Clair township; Nellie, the wife of John Rupp, a farmer of the same community, with one son, Carl Edward; and Frank, jr., who assists his father.
Merle Flenner, M. D. One of the most genial, cultured and thoroughly learned physicians of the Butler county medical fraternity, Dr. Merle Flenner has for a number of years been engaged in a large, lucrative and growing practice, embracing all departments of his profession, at Hamilton. He is a native of this city, and was born in 1878, a son of Granville M. and Anna (Rust) Flenner. His father, a native of Butler county, was engaged in the hardware business at Hamilton until 1885, when he removed to Peoria, Ill., where his wife died December, 1918, and after her death he returned to Hamilton where he makes his home with his son Merle. There were six children in the family: Edith, John, Granville M., jr., Caroline, Merle and Neil. Merle Flenner completed his high school education at Peoria, Ill., following which he entered the Miami Medical college, at Cincinnati, Ohio, with the class of 1898. He received his medical degree in 1903, and in the meantime spent one year in Paris, where he visited the Paris exposition and also improved his time by attending various clinics in the great metropolis. On his return, and after his graduation from college, he served as interne in the city hospital, Cincinnati, for one and one-half years, and in January, 1905, located at Hamilton, where he has been engaged in general practice. On several occasions he has attended the Mayo
clinics, and has been a constant student, and is a valued and interested member of the various organizations of his calling. He belongs to the Alpha Kappa Kappa fraternity. A consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, he has served as the president of the Epworth League. His political affiliation is with the Republican party. Doctor Flenner married Adrienne, daughter of George F. and Katherine Nosier, and to this union there have been born two children: Anna Katherine and George Granville. The family home is the center of an intellectual and cultured social circle, and such home surroundings and influences are largely responsible for that broad outlook and mental vigor which Doctor Flenner evinces in his professional labors, and which have lifted him above the plane of the average metropolitan practitioner.
Sol Flenner. Among the well-known retired citizens of Trenton whose industry, energy and good management have placed them in comfortable circumstances and gained for them a reputable standing among their townsmen, is Sol Flenner. For many years he was identified with prosperous business enterprises at Hamilton, where he established an unassailable reputation for probity and integrity, and when he retired from active affairs it was with the friendship and respect of those who had been his competitors as well as of his associates. Mr. Flenner was born at Westfield, Ill., July 24, 1858, a son of William and Laney Flenner. His father was born at Flenner's Corners, Butler county, Ohio, and his mother on a farm in St. Clair township, in the same county. The Flenner family is one of the old and honored ones of this county, where for many years its members have been largely devoted to agricultural pursuits, although the professions, business and politics have also benefited by their activities. William Flenner was educated in the common schools and as a young man took up farming as his vocation, but in 1855 went to Illinois, where during the three years of his residence he was the operator and owner of a sawmill. Returning to Butler county he had a sawmill for five years on the present site of the plant of Hoover, Owens & Rentschler, and then engaged in farming at Flenner's Corners. Again returning to Hamilton, he continued as a resident of that city for thirty years, and was engaged in a variety of pursuits. He and Mrs. Flenner were faithful members of the United Brethren church, and were the parents of four sons: Charles, an engineer of Hamilton; Daniel, who met an accidental death in 1894, leaving a widow, who had been Miss Effie Dick; Sol; and William. Sol Flenner was given his educational training in the public school at Flenner's Corners, and at the outset of his career thoroughly assimilated all the knowledge available as to proper methods of agriculture and the operation of mills. Eventually, when he left his father's association, he embarked in a sawmilling business at Millville, and continued therein ten years. From this line of activity he turned his attention to the manufacture of mattresses and spring beds, at Hamilton, being for ten years located in an establishment at Seventh and Walnut streets. During his career he also operated a threshing outfit for ten years, allover the county, and spent a like period as the proprietor at Hamilton of a livery
stable, which stood on the present site of the Y. M. C. A. building. During all this time Mr. Flenner had maintained his high reputation as a man thoroughly skilled in the knowledge of matters pertaining to the cultivation and proper treatment of the soil, as well as a man of fine abilities of a business and executive character, and in March, 1915, his associates expressed their confidence in his capacity and ability by electing him director of the Butler County Agricultural association, a position which he still retains, and in which he has made a splendid record for accomplishment and constructive work. Mr. Flener was married in December, 1895, to Louisa Schantz, of Madison township, Butler county, a daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Augsperger) Schantz, farming people, the former a native of Wayne county, Ohio, and the latter of Trenton and deceased. Of the eight children of Mr. and Mrs. Schantz, six are living: Frank, deceased, who married Nora McKeown, and have one son, Horace, his widow being now the wife of E. C. Seimer; Louisa, who became the wife of Mr. Flenner; Amelia, who died at the age of forty years, as the wife of R. F. Scudder; Reuben, engaged in the manufacture of mattresses at Hamilton; Christian W., a manufacturer of felt goods, etc., at Hamilton; Mary, the wife of C. H. Heller, of Detroit, Mich. ; Herman, salesman of Trenton; and Owen, a salesman traveling out of Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Flenner are fond of travel and believers in its broadening influences, and have visited many parts of their native land, in addition to which, in 1908, they made an extensive tour of Europe, where they viewed all the points of interest, during the several months of their stay. They are consistent members of the Presbyterian church at Hamilton, in which Mr. Flenner has peen an elder for many years. He is a Republican in his political views.
Alfred L. Foreman. Any list enumerating the constructive citizens of College Corner would be decidedly incomplete that did not include the name of Alfred L. Foreman. Since taking up his residence in this live and growing little city, he has contributed materially to its progress and development in various ways, principally through his services in offices of public importance, and at present is serving in the capacity of postmaster. Mr. Foreman was born at Oxford, Ohio, February 15, 1857, a son of Samuel and Mary (Lemons) Foreman, the former a native of Oxford township, Butler county, Ohio, and the latter of Cumminsville, this state. The father, who was possessed of a public school education, followed agricultural pursuits throughout his life in Oxford township, where he died in 1902 at the age of seventy-seven years, and also took an active part in Democratic politics. Mrs. Foreman died in 1911, at the age of seventy-seven years, in the faith of the Methodist church, of which she had been a lifelong member. They were the parents of five children: Alfred L., of this notice; Jennie, who is deceased; Nettie, the wife of L. W. Mason, of Oxford; C. J., connected with the firm of Strauss & company, at Hamilton, Ohio; and one who died in infancy. Alfred L. Foreman attended the public schools of Oxford, and in 1880 took up farming on the old home place in Oxford township, which he operated for five years. He then moved to the
William Greer farm in the same township, and continued as a tiller of the soil for eight years, at the end of which time he took up his residence at College Corner and established himself in the livery business, which he followed for four years. This was succeeded by active participation in the grocery business until 1916, when he was appointed postmaster of College Corner by President. Wilson, a position which he has since filled to the entire satisfaction of the people of the community. Mr. Foreman became interested in public affairs while still living on the farm, and for six years served as a member of the board of trustees of Oxford township. Since coming to College Corner he has served as a member of the school board and in the village council, and may be termed as one of the fathers of his village, as he assisted in having College Corner incorporated. He has been variously occupied otherwise in working for beneficial measures. Politically, Mr. Foreman is a stalwart Democrat. July 4, 1879, Mr. Foreman married Jennie Murphy, of Oxford township, and they became the parents of three children: Pearl, who died September 21, 1917, as the wife of C. K. Miller, of College Corner, leaving two children, Mildred and Donald; Harry, of College Corner, who married Sina Earhart and has one son, Harry Lewis; and Floy, who married Raymond Bake, of Hamilton, and has three children, Carl W., Sterling and Eugene. All the members of the family belong to the College Corner Methodist Episcopal church.
Robert Frazee has been identified with the interests of Butler county for more than three-score-and-ten years and has contributed to its material progress and prosperity to an extent surpassed by but few of his contemporaries, and up to within several years ago one of the large landholders of the county. Mr. Frazee was born in Milford township, Butler county, Ohio, November 26, 1848, a son of Squire Frazee, the latter born near Carthage, Hamilton county, a son of Maxwell Frazee, of New Jersey. Maxwell Frazee married Lydia Bunnell, who was born in 1790, and who was but one year old when taken by her parents to the present site of Cincinnati, a community then known as Columbia. For a number of years the grandparents resided on a farm two and one-half miles west of Somerville, where the grandfather died in 1855 and the grandmother in 1879 at the age of eighty-nine years. They had five children: Caleb, who went to Indiana, where he died; Squire, the father of Robert; Edwin, who was a farmer of Milford township; Jane, the wife of Cyrus Wilburton, of Parke county, Ind.; and Sarah, who married Benjamin P. Kennedy, of Rush county, Ind. Squire Frazee was educated in the home schools, and practically his entire life was passed on the farm in Milford township, two and one-half miles west of Somerville. He was an industrious man and skilled farmer, made a success of his undertakings, and died in comfortable circumstances. He was a staunch Democrat and he and his wife were Universalists. She bore the maiden name of Mary Irvin, and they were the parents of four children: Sarah, deceased, who was the wife of the late A. J. Kennedy; Annie, deceased, who was the wife of the late Wilson Kennedy; Robert, and Lewis B., a retired farmer of Camden, Ohio. Robert Frazee was educated in the home schools
of Milford township, and remained under the roof of his parents until his marriage, August 27, 1874, to Mary, daughter of James M. and Sylvia Ann (Antrim) Young, the latter a daughter of John Antrim. Mr. Young was a farmer all of his life and a Republican in politics, and he and Mrs. Young were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. His death occurred in April, 1914, when he was eighty-one years of age, while Mrs. Young passed away February 12, 1894, at the age of fifty-nine years. They were the parents of four daughters: Alice, the widow of John Shaffer, of Seven Mile; Mrs. Frazee; Lulu, the wife of David McCune, of Miami, Fla.; and Eva, who married John Duffield, of Somerville, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Frazee there have been born two daughters: Sadie, the wife of G. H. Oren, a merchant of Somerville; and Edith, the wife of John C. Barnett, postmaster and a merchant at Seven Mile. During the entire period of his active career Mr. Frazee had been a farmer, but in December, 1906, retired from active pursuits and moved to Somerville, where he has a pleasant home. He owned and rented his farm property until 1917, in which year he disposed of his 148 acres. He has never been an office seeker, and his only connection with politics has been as a Democratic voter. With his family, he belongs to the Presbyterian church. As a good citizen and a man of marked integrity and probity, he is held in high esteem and respect in his community.
Carl and Arthur Frechtling. Among the business enterprises of Hamilton which have grown and developed under the stimulating influence of the progressiveness and vigorous activity of their owners, one which has had a particularly successful career is the dairy establishment of Frechtling Brothers, located on South Front street. Founded in 1906, it has advanced and prospered, until today it is a $50,000 concern and considered one of the city's valuable commercial adjuncts. Carl and Arthur Frechtling, the proprietors of this business, are natives of Hamilton, and sons of George and Mary (Richter) Frechtling, also both born at Hamilton, Mrs. Frechtling's birthplace being at 545 South Front street, the present location of the dairy business. George Frechtling was educated in the Hamilton graded schools, grew to manhood in this city, and was here married when but twenty-three years of age. From the time he was twenty years old until he was twenty-six, he was identified with the Deinzer & Stevens company, of Hamilton, after which he and his wife went to Shelbyville, Ind. There Mr. Frechtling engaged in the lumber business by the organization of the Bentwood factory and sawmill, a venture with which he continued to be connected until the time of his death at the early age of twenty-seven years, in an accident on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad at Glendale, Ohio. Doubtless had he not been called in death at such an early age, Mr. Frechtling would have become a very prosperous man, as he had already, even at the time of his demise, established himself in a paying business with every opportunity for fortune ahead. Both Carl and Arthur Frechtling graduated from the graded and high schools at Hamilton, following which Arthur went to the Ohio State university at Columbus, Ohio, where he took a course in mechanical en
engineering. Carl went to Purdue university, later to the Iowa State college, at Ames, Iowa, and finally to the University at Madison, Wisconsin. Upon completing his education Carl Frechtling went to Rochester, N. Y., where he became associated with the Brighton Place Dairy company in the capacity of manager. After being with this concern for two years, he was called home to Hamilton, because of the fire which destroyed the Mehrum building, in which he and his brother owned a half interest, their loss through this conflagration amounting to $40,000. Carl decided to remain at Hamilton where, April 1, 1906, he established the dairy business of Frechtling Brothers, his brother Arthur at that time becoming a silent partner. This is now, as noted, a $50,000 establishment, with a daily output of 4,000 gallons of milk. In February, 1918, Carl Frechtling married Glenna Bevington, who was born at Brookville, Ind., but educated at Hamilton, where she has passed the greater part of her life. They have one son, Jimmie, and reside in their comfortable and attractive home at No. 484 Ridgelawn avenue. Mr. Frechtling is a member of the local lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and of the Sigma Nu college fraternity. Arthur Frechtling, following his graduation from the Ohio State university as a mechanical engineer, took a position in that capacity with the Union Pacific railway at Cheyenne, Wyo., and remained with that corporation for two years. He then accepted a position with a factory at Portland, Me., as superintendent, but after two years transferred his services to the Fairbanks Morse Scale company, for whom he was traveling representative in the states of Kentucky and Ohio, but was later transferred to the office at Tacoma, Wash. In 1908 he was married to Amanda Oetterer, of Hamilton, and in 1909 gave up his position at Tacoma and returned to Hamilton to engage actively in business in partnership with his brother, Carl. He and his wife are the parents of two children, namely: Walton Herrman, born in 1913; and Arthur Carl, born in 1916. Mr. Frechtling is a Knight Templar Mason and a Noble of the Mystic Shrine, and also holds membership in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Charles Frederick. Liberty township, Butler county, Ohio, is noted for the large number of beautiful homes owned and occupied by farmers and it is not amiss to say that Charles Frederick, a prominent young farmer of Liberty township, Ohio, has one of the most modern and attractive homes in that section. A native of Liberty township, he was born November 11, 1876, the younger of two sons of John and Philomena (Smith) Frederick, the other boy, Otto, having met death in a runaway accident. The father was a native of Germany, but came to the United States at the age of fourteen years, locating in Butler county. His first employment was as a farm hand and after following this a number of years he engaged in the grain business at Lesourdsville, Butler county. He was successful in this venture and continued in the business several years, but in the meantime he had acquired about 850 acres of farm land which was the most fertile and promising in that community and when he passed away he was known as one of the large land holders of Butler county and was revered as a citizen whose residence in that community
had been for the best interests of all. His rise to eminence as all agriculturist was all the more enviable because of the fact that he started life as a poor boy who had come to Ohio from Germany without the backing of influential parents, his principal assets being willing hands and an honest heart. His wife, who was a native of Butler county, was a woman of noble traits of character. Charles Frederick received his education in Liberty township and attended high school at Hamilton, Ohio. After leaving school he worked with his father until the latter's death, when he personally took over the farm properties and managed same successfully, and it may be truthfully said that each year since he has been directing the affairs of his property the total crop returns have shown a decided increase. In 1899 he married Miss Addie Clawson, daughter of Wilson and Harriet Clawson. Two children have been born to them: Hugh C. and Donald Sherwood. The father of Mrs. Frederick bears the distinction of being the oldest living settler in Liberty township. In his younger days he was one of the energetic and useful men of the community and age alone has cut short his activity.
Fred Fries. The career of the late Fred Fries is a part of the yesterday of Hamilton, but his substantial commercial efforts are constantly brought to mind by the presence of the business which he founded thirty-seven years ago at No. 123-125-127 S. Third street, and which is now being conducted by his honored widow and worthy sons. Mr. Fries was one of the pioneer business men of Hamilton who laid broad and deep the foundations for business success, building substantially on a policy of honesty and upright dealing, and throughout his long residence at Hamilton was one of his community's best and most helpful citizens, his death, which occurred September 22, 1911, removing a force for progress and honorable advancement which had done much to add to Hamilton's commercial prestige. Fred Fries was distinctively a self-made man. Born in Germany, May 15, 1855, he was a lad of fourteen years, with a common school education, when he came to the United States, and for one and one-half years worked at the cooper trade in New York City. When he was sixteen years old he came to Hamilton and went to work for his uncle in the grocery business, so continuing until he was twenty-six years old. At that time, in partnership with Mr. Bobmeyer, he purchased his uncle's business, and the firm of Fries & Bobmeyer continued in association for two years, when the senior partner became sole proprietor, and added to the grocery a meat market and feed store, the combined business being located, as today, at 123-125-127 S. Third street. Possessed of a shrewd business ability, his investments almost invariably resulted in gain, and his energy converted a modest enterprise into one of large proportions, and this in spite of the fact that in his early years in the acquirement of an education he had been confronted with many obstacles, chief among which was the necessity for personal maintenance. A man of the strictest integrity he always held the unqualified confidence of the public and of his business associates, while his personal character was such as to be beyond reproach. He was a faithful member of the Catholic church and held membership in the
Catholic Knights of America and the Catholic Knights of Ohio. In 1882 Mr. Fries married Barbara Schatt, who was born at Hamilton and has spent her life here, a woman of many fine qualities and of good business ability. She is a daughter of the late Joseph and Kunennda Schatt, both deceased, her father having for many years been a gardener on East avenue. Of the four sons born to Mr. and Mrs. Fries, three are working for their mother in taking care of the business: Fred J., born in 1884, and single; Carl J., born in 1886, and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Catholic Knights of America; and Ralph F., born in 1890, a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Knights of Columbus, who married Catherine Brell of Hamilton. The fourth son, Joseph, born in 1888, enlisted in the army during the World war, and was taken sick in France. During his entire stay overseas he was confined to the hospital. After his return to the United States he took up his abode at Ft. Benjamin Harrison and after regaining his health at this fort, returned to his home as an assistant to his mother and brothers in the conduct of the business. He is a member of the order of Eagles. All the boys attended St. Stephen's parochial school, and Ralph F. had a course in the Hamilton Business college. This old, well-liked and highly respected family belongs to St. Stephen's Catholic church, and is noted for its liberality and public-spiritedness, and for its generous support of education and other enlightening agencies.
David L. Frisch. In connection with presenting a list of the reliable and industrious business men of the past who had a share in developing the industries of Butler county, prominent mention should be made of David L. Frisch, who was both a farmer and a manufacturer of brick, and who at the same time was a worthy, constructive and helpful citizen. A self-made and practically self-educated man, he won success through merit alone, and his memory is still green in the hearts of his fellow-citizens despite the fact that some years have passed since he was called to his final rest. Mr. Frisch was born in Bavaria, Germany, March 18, 1839, a son of Michael and Catherine (Welscher) Frisch, of that country, who were married in their native locality, and all of whose children were born there. The father was a shoemaker by trade and did fairly well in his native land, but after the death of his wife, in 1848, partly to get away from associations and partly to secure the opportunities offered in America, he disposed of his interests there and in 1850 boarded a sailing vessel, arriving at Baltimore, Md., after a voyage of six weeks. For a time he resided at Cincinnati, but eventually purchased a small place at Alexandria, Ky., and there continued to engage in farming until the time of his death, at the age of sixty-one years. He and Mrs. Frisch were the parents of five children: John, a shoemaker, who came to the United States in 1849, located first at Cincinnati and then moved to Middletown, where he was a gardener on East Third street until his death; Fred, deceased, who was a farmer in the vicinity of Piqua, Ohio; Eliza, deceased, who was the wife of the late Frank Tieman; Barbara, deceased, who was the wife of the late John Hey; and David L. The fourth child of his parents,
David L. Frisch attended school in Europe for six years, but had no opportunities for an education. after coming to the United States, and is therefore self-educated in the language of this country. In 1853 when he located at Middletown, he found employment with John Lauks, and subsequently worked with Jacob Arp at brick making for about three years. He continued in that same line as an employee until 1864, when he established a modest plant of his own at Middletown, where he was located on Third street for several years, as well as at other points, and bought property on Fifth street. In 1878 he purchased the Post farm of seventy-two acres, upon which he made modern improvements, and put up a brick kiln, but four years later sold out to his sons and continued to live quietly in his comfortable home until his death, which occurred November 6, 1918. Mr. Frisch was always a staunch Republican, but did not care for public office. Many evidences of his good workmanship and business stability still exist in Middletown, where, during his active years he did much contract work. He and Mrs. Frisch were members of St. Paul church, and were generous supporters of all worthy movements, religious, moral, civic and educational. They were widely known, were greatly appreciated for their many excellencies of mind and heart, and had numerous warm friends. Mr. Frisch married Miss Kate Baldwein, of Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, who came to the United States in 1852 and died in January, 1910, and they became the parents of ten children: Dora, who died in infancy; Louis, who died at the age of fifteen years; Katie, who died when seventeen years of age; Emma, who died young; Charles, deceased, a tailor, who married Lena Wellmer; Mary, who is deceased; Ida, of Stone Lake, Iowa, who married C. Bauman; Edward, a contractor of Middletown, who married Mrs. Mary (Dell) Hall; John, a photographer of Cincinnati, who married a Miss Lane; Homer, a tile and brick manufacturer of Mount Pulaski, Ill., who married Dora Lucas; and Gardner, a farmer, who resided with his father until the latter's death, and married Mary Brinkley. This family is one which is well known in Butler county, and its members are worthy representatives of the name they bear and of the various activities which combine to form the life of the community.
Jacob Fuhr. The American Milling Company at Middletown claims Jacob Fuhr as one of its experienced heaters. Mr. Fuhr's identification with this company dates back to 1909 and during the time that has elapsed he has been faithful and competent in the discharge of his duties. He was born at Philadelphia, Pa., July 14, 1878, a son of William Fuhr. His mother died when he was a mere child, while the father is still living. Besides Jacob there was but one other child in the family: Helen, who became Mrs. Frank Scheeler, and at her death left two children: George and Lillie, the latter of whom is now Mrs. Dewey Smith. Jacob Fuhr received his education in the public schools of Philadelphia, and as a youth became identified with work connected with the rolling mills. He served his apprenticeship, passed through a stage as a journeyman, in which he worked at various cities, and eventually located at Piqua, Ohio, whence he came to Middletown in 1909. Since
then he has been employed in the great plant of the American Rolling mill, in the capacity of heater. The .ten-year service pin worn by Mr. Fuhr, and recently presented to him by the company, is emblematic of a decade of faithful, efficient and conscientious service. Shortly after his arrival at Middletown, Mr. Fuhr purchased a very comfortable home located on Park street, where he is wont to entertain his numerous friends on occasion. Like other self-made men, he believes in organization for protection, and is an active and loyal member of the Amalgamated Association of Steel Workers. In politics he is liberal. September 17, 1896, Mr. Fuhr married Mary Stanley, who was born at Bunker Hill, near Lockington, Ohio, December 2, 1878, a daughter of John and Eva (Snoshley) Stanley, highly respected agricultural people who are still living and whose home is near Piqua. One of Mrs. Fuhr's brothers, Isaac Stanley, is a farmer in the vicinity of Piqua; another brother, Frank, resides at Sidney, Ohio; and a sister, Minnie, is the wife of Henry Rice, at Troy, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Fuhr there have been born two sons and one daughter: Willie, born in 1897; Emma, born in 1899; and Stanley, born in 1901. The two sons, who had been carefully prepared in their trades, are at present employed at the American Rolling mill.
George Gailey. In the great plant of the American Rolling mill, located at Middletown, there are represented many of the world's nationalities among the employees. "Bonnie" Scotland has contributed its full quota of sturdy sons, whose natural characteristics incline to make them excellent and dependable workers, and among this category is found George Gailey. Mr. Gailey's service with the company covers a period of eighteen years, and has been faithful and valuable. He was born in Scotland, January 24, 1863, a son of James and Mary (Wright) Gailey, the father dying in Scotland January 1, 1907, and the mother passing away in Middletown, February 2, 1909. There were seven children in the family: George; John, who still resides in Scotland; Joseph, living in Middletown; James and Andrew, who never left Scotland; Mary, the wife of Peter Lillie; Miss Sarah, who also resides in her native land. George Gailey was given the advantages of a public school education in Scotland, and there was apprenticed to his trade as a young man. He mastered its details and was variously employed in the mills of his native country, but eventually felt that he was not making sufficiently rapid progress, and in 1902 emigrated to the United States and at once settled at Middletown. Here he identified himself with the American Rolling mill, and his subsequent industry, fidelity and general ability have combined to gain him advancement and to put him in a position of importance among the workers of the great plant. Mr. Gailey was united in matrimony, July 12, 1889, with Margaret, daughter of James and Jean (Cunningham) Bissett, the mother of whom died when Mrs. Gailey was a child of fourteen years. Mrs. Gailey had three sisters and two brothers, all residents of Scotland: Mrs. Mary Robertson, Mrs. Elizabeth Wells, Mrs. Jean Jeffrey, David and Alexander. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gailey: James, who is
deceased; Alexander, who married Susan Mosier and has one son and one daughter-James and Mary Margaret; Jean, who married Casper Noell and has one daughter, - Margaret Vernon; and Mary Wright, who is attending the Middletown High school class of 1920, and is also studying instrumental music. Mr. Gailey maintains an independent stand in political affairs, being liberal in his views and unwilling to be tied down by party lines. He is affiliated fraternally with the local lodge of the Masonic order and the Tribe of Ben-Hur, and, with his family, belongs to the Methodist church. Since coming to Middletown, he has erected a handsome home at 804 Forest avenue, which is noted for its hospitality.
Bernard C. Gardner. The activities of Bernard C. Gardner in the agricultural community of Reily township, have found expression and an outlet in the carrying on of a business somewhat unique among the occupations to which the residents of this community devote themselves. There is nothing unusual in his operations as a gardener and poultry breeder, but in addition to these lines he also raises ferrets, Belgian hares, and fine-bred hunting dogs, specialties in which he has built up a large business and something of a reputation. Mr. Gardner was born at Hamilton, Ohio, October 31, 1871, a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Pater) Gardner, natives of Germany. The parents came to the United States as young people and settled at Hamilton, where they met and were married, and thereafter followed farming in Butler county. They were worthy, highly respected and God-fearing people, and had a family of ten children. Bernard C. Gardner attended the public schools of the country and at Hamilton, and was also prepared by a course at business college. As a youth he learned the coppersmith trade, which he followed at Cincinnati, Ohio, for seven years, and then embarked in the coal business, which he engaged in at Hamilton for nine years. At the end of that period he became the owner by purchase of the Watkins farm in Reily township, upon which he engaged in gardening and poultry breeding. Gradually, Mr. Gardner began to add side lines to his business, and now a considerable part of his time and attention are given to the raising of ferrets, Belgian hares, finely bred hunting dog's and other animals, and has regular customers throughout Ohio and adjoining states. He is a man of excellent business ability and his standing in commercial circles is of the best. His politics is that of the Democratic party, and as a fraternalist he belongs to the Loyal Order of Moose, at Hamilton. With his family, he belongs to the Catholic church at Oxford. Mr. Gardner was married in 1894 to Louise, daughter of Henry and Susan Heckroth, who was born in Pennsylvania of English descent, and they are the parents of one son, Vernon, who has always been associated with his father in his business enterprises.
Charles G. Gardner, the popular station agent and enterprising and progressive merchant at Woods Station, Ohio, has been a resident of this community all of his life, having been born here December 2, 1879, a son of George and Jennie (Barnes) Gardner. The parents were natives of near Baltimore, Md., where they were
married and where the father conducted a grocery for several years. Later George Gardner went to Portsmouth, Ohio, and subsequently to St. Louis, where he followed merchandising, then locating at Hamilton, Ohio, where for one year he conducted a store on Fifth street. In 1871 and 1872 he was a merchant at Flenners Corner Ohio, and in the latter year came to Woods Station, where he established himself in business. When the railroad was built through to this point, he was appointed station agent and built the station at this place, and here he continued to reside, in the esteem of his associates and the confidence of the people, until his death in 1907 at the age of eighty years. He was a Democrat in politics, in religion a Universalist, and fraternally an Odd Fellow. Mrs. Gardner, who died in 1913 at the age of seventy-three years, was a Presbyterian, and for eighteen months during the Civil war served as nurse in a Confederate hospital near Richmond, Va. They were the parents of three children: one who died in 1887; one who died in 1875; and Charles G. of this notice. Charles G. Gardner was educated in the public schools, after leaving which he engaged in business with his father. At the time of the elder man's death he assumed management of the business, and also succeeded to the position of station agent. A courteous, obliging man, he has won popularity among the traveling public, and these same qualities have served him well in a business way, combined as they are with his real business capacity, progressiveness and principles of fair dealing. He is a Democrat in politics, but has taken only a passive part in political affairs, although active in movements which promise civic betterment. In religion he is a Universalist and his wife a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Both are well and favorably known in their part of Butler county, where they have many friends. Mr. Gardner was married in 1915 to Leona, daughter of Harvey H. Jones, of Woods Station, and they are the parents of two children: June Margaret and George Harvey.
Colin Gardner. In order to give adequate expression to the influence a man exerts over his fellows, it is necessary to delve into the motives which actuated him and the circumstances under which his activities were inspired. This is seldom done while a man is living, but after he has passed from this phase of existence his contemporaries are better able to judge his character rationally and form a fair estimate of him and his work. Judged in such a manner the late Colin Gardner, who died March 7, 1919, appears very advantageously, for he was a man of alert capability who acted from the finest and most sincere of motives and faithfully performed every duty that devolved upon him in every walk of life. His business associations brought him to Middletown, where for years he was one of his community's foremost citizens, a leader in business, in civic life, in religion, in education and in charity. Mr. Gardner was born November 7, 1839, at Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of James Brewster and Elizabeth (Ludlow) Gardner. He received a high school education at Cincinnati and as a lad worked on his father's farm near Troy, but had aspirations to go to the city and
work for himself. The family finances were in a rather modest condition, but his father gave him the privilege of raking over the wheatfields the second time, and this he did so thoroughly that the wheat which he secured he sold for $13. With this sum as his worldly wealth he went to Cincinnati, where he secured a position as errand boy with the firm of George W. Jones & company, a wholesale dry goods concern. Almost from the start he was given advancement, and within three years the ambitious youth had become a member of the firm. Mr. Gardner remained with this house up to the time of his marriage to Elizabeth Tytus, of Middletown, December 6, 1870. She was a graduate of Vassar college and a daughter of Francis Jefferson and Sarah (Butler) Tytus. She and Mr. Gardner became the parents of three children: Edward Tytus, Colin jr. and Robert Brewster. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Gardner resigned his position with George W. Jones & company and located at Middletown, where he went into business with his father-in-law, Francis Jefferson Tytus, in a concern known as the Tytus Paper company. He remained with this enterprise a number of years and was later made its vice-president. Subsequently Messrs. Tytus and Gardner started another paper mill, known as the Gardner Paper company, of which Colin Gardner became president, and later embarked in a new enterprise, the manufacture of paper bags, for which they organized the Ohio Paper Bag company, of which Mr. Gardner was also president. The three concerns were later consolidated into one company, known as the Tytus-Gardner Paper and Manufacturing company, of which Colin Gardner was made president, remaining in that capacity until 1900, at which time he resigned. One year previous to this action, the old Gardner Paper company had been destroyed by fire, and when he resigned as president of the Tytus-Gardner Paper and Manufacturing company he sold what stock he had in that company and bought the ground on which the Gardner Paper company had been located, together with the salvage, which consisted of some of the old machinery, boilers, etc. In the fall of 1900 he organized the Colin Gardner Paper company, of which he was made president, and remodeled the old machine that was there for the manufacture of paper box boards. This industry met with success, due to his capable management, and in 1904 he more than doubled the capacity of the mill by installing another machine, which was larger than the original one. In 1908 he organized the Gardner-Harvey Paper company, installing a very large paper board machine, and in 1916 organized the Gardner Paper Board company and took over the old National Box Board company, which was at that time in the hands of the receiver. All three of these companies met with phenomenal success, due to the efforts of Colin Gardner, who it is conceded was one of the most brilliant business men of his day. He was a Republican, but took no active part in politics, nor did he care for fraternal connections. During the Civil war he served with the 100-day men in the Union service. Throughout his life he was an active member in the First Baptist church. The following memorial tribute to Mr. Gardner was
written by his friend, Daniel F. Rittenhouse, at the time of Mr. Gardner's death: "A man who identifies his life with Christ and higher interests as did Mr. Gardner develops a character that stands like a mighty column set upon foundations sure and steadfast Such a man builds himself into the character and institutional life of a community. If I were to choose a passage of Scripture upon which to base my remarks today it would be Revelations 3:12, 'Him that over cometh I will make a pillar in the temple of my God.' It was in the stillness of a midnight hour that the painful tidings briefly told me Mr. Gardner had died. I knew that the central pillar of my own world had been moved. I knew that a strong pillar had slipped in the stir and bustle of Middletown's industrial life. I knew that a pillar on which scores of other lives were daily leaning had been shattered. I knew that a pillar in our Baptist church had fallen. But, looking beyond the shadows of darkness I seemed to see a shining steady shaft set on high and read the destiny he has gone forward to realize: 'Him that over-cometh I will make a pillar in the temple of my God.' The ground-work of such a victorious life is simple, yet profound. First, a boundless faith shaped and sustained his history. At times the great interests he had were not sharing as largely as they might in profits. Mr. Gardner never lost hope. He confidently believed matters would right themselves again. Rarely could a man be found with more definite convictions, clearer opinions and firmer attitude. He was no shifter. He never played fast and loose with duty; when he saw clearly a course of procedure he went forward with invincible firmness. Again, his sincerity and freedom from sham was an outstanding characteristic, he was keen to detect pretense and hypocrisy and burned against it. Few men are more completely above the spirit of envy. When his own business chanced by unfavorable circumstances to make little or no profits, he could readily rejoice in the success and prosperity of others. Indeed, so anxious was he, so optimistic was he, that he was always hopeful for those who were unpromising. But he had small use for a shiftless man who showed no appreciation for the help others offered him. To the man of earnest purpose and faithful effort Mr. Gardner always gave abundant sympathy and generous encouragement. He firmly believed that every man should earn his right to live by his daily effort. As long as it was physically possible, Mr. Gardner was a wonderful example of what he advocated and was found daily in his office abreast of all the details of his business. Again, there were times when this great man might have been pardoned had he appeared gloomy and downhearted because of seizures of illness. But in reasonable health his spirit of optimism and cheerfulness were as refreshing as the sea breeze. His glad, energetic atmosphere put new spring into your own power of enjoyment. Few husbands manifest such constant, loving interest in his wife as Mr. Gardner showed for Mrs. Gardner who has gone before. In health she was surrounded with abundance. During her protracted illness he was ready to spend the whole of his vast material resources if need be for her comfort and restoration.
He once told me some friends had suggested that he leave in our city something as a monument to his memory. He replied that the monument he most desired to leave behind would be his three sons as worthy citizens, properly trained and inspired by such ideals as he had ever tried to hold before their vision. It was this high and noble appreciation for home and family that inspired in Mr. Gardner many simple and beautiful unrecorded charities toward less fortunate families. In all our community a more wonderful example of deep, untiring patriotism could not be found. He demonstrated that a true American citizen is never too old to be patriotic. In his eightieth year the fires of patriotic devotion burned with brilliant glow and he supported with great liberality every measure for winning the war. With all the large interests that filled Mr. Gardner's big heart, none held a larger place than did the First Baptist church. He often regretted his inability to do many things in the church of more public character, but believed every man should serve the Lord earnestly with just such gifts as God had given him. He considered that his gifts lay in the direction of vital sympathy with all church activities, personally present at public worship and money contributed as generously as one could afford. He faithfully practised this teaching to the end. Indeed, every class of persons, every institution in our city, is stricken by Mr. Gardner's death. The laboring men know they have lost a friendly helper. Times when conditions almost demanded that his mills be closed, he was willing to keep the machines operating at a loss rather than that his men should be thrown out of employment. The big, strong men who stood with him full-breasted against the hard business problems that force themselves upon the attention of manufacturers, shake today with inward sobs because this braver brother-soul will walk with them no more in future tempestuous days. Others whom he scarcely knew will miss him riding through the streets from his home to his office. He suffered much, but at last fell suddenly. No dying scenes can be related. Just as the Angel of a new day stepped from one day to the next at midnight, March 7, 1919, the Angel of the Lord overstooped his pillow and whispered the summons of departure. He was gone. He has gone to make Heaven stronger and more beautiful. �Hence-forth he will be a pillar in the temple of our God and he shall go no more out.' 'The finest fruit earth holds up to God is a finished man.' Mr. Gardner was a well-finished man. Such fruit Christ sought in him and seeks in us. May the consolation of the Lord to his stricken household be greater than their anguish. May this lonely darkness bring them through all the years until one by one each shall also be lifted higher to find broader light, sweeter peace and the abiding fellowship of him who has been taken from their arms."
Colin Gardner, jr., scion of an honored family of Middletown, and one of the prominent and influential business men of the city, was born at Middletown, June 30, 1886, a son of Colin and Elizabeth (Tytus) Gardner. A review of the family will be found in the sketch of his father on another page of this work. Colin Gardner,
jr. attended the Middletown public school, and University of Cincinnati, and for three years was a student at Sheffield Scientific school, Yale university, graduating therefrom June 30, 1909. Immediately thereafter he became timekeeper at the plant of the Gardner-Harvey Paper company, and a year or so later was advanced to the sales department of the Colin Gardner Paper company, an allied concern. He was subsequently made treasurer, an office which he held until 1917, at which time he was elected vice-president of this concern as well as of the Gardner-Harvey Paper company and the Gardner Paper company. In addition he is in charge of the sales of these three companies. While his business interests are heavy, demanding much of his time and attention, he has found the leisure as well as the inclination to contribute of his abilities toward the furtherance of worthy movements. In 1917 he became a charter member of Middletown Chapter, American Red Cross, and was made chairman of the Chapter for the period of the war, and has continued in that capacity to the present time. In 1916 he was made a member of the first board of trustees of the Middletown Hospital association, and under the administration of this board the hospital was opened and commenced operation. In 1918 he was elected treasurer of the Middletown hospital and still acts in this capacity. Mr. Gardner is a member of the First Baptist church of Middletown, and of Sigma Chapter fraternity of the Delta Psi at Yale university. His political belief makes him a Republican. April 6, 1911, Mr. Gardner was united in marriage with Ethel, daughter of Allen and Mary Louella (Johnson) Ames, the former of Oswego and the latter of Sterling valley, N. Y. Mrs. Gardner was educated at a convent at Brentwood, L. I., N. Y., and at Miss Bennett's School, Millbrook, N. Y. She and her husband are the parents of four children: Colin III, Ames, Nancy Elizabeth and Eugenia.
Edward Tytus Gardner. One of the chief industries of Middletown is that represented by the Gardner & Harvey company, which is selling and purchasing company for three plants manufacturing superior grades of patent coated boards, paper box boards, blanks and specialties, the Colin Gardner Paper company, the Gardner-Harvey Paper company and the Gardner Paper Board company. The main factor in the development of this large and important concern is Edward Tytus Gardner, who, during a comparatively short career has shown a genius for organization and executive powers that have steadily advanced him to the front rank of manufacturers in this special field. He was born September 16, 1879 at Middletown, Ohio, a son of Colin and Elizabeth (Tytus) Gardner, and received public school advantages, graduating from the Franklin High school, Cincinnati. Soon thereafter, in 1899, he became paymaster in the Tytus-Gardner Paper & Manufacturing company, but in the fall of 1900 resigned that position and went into business with Colin Gardner and G. H. Harvey, incorporating the Colin Gardner Paper company and building its plant at Middletown. He was made treasurer and sales manager at that time, rose to the vice-presidency in 1909, and in the fall of 1917 was made president,
a position which he still retains. In 1904, by the addition of a new machine the capacity of this plant was more than doubled. In 1909 Mr. Gardner was one of the main incorporators of the Gardner-Harvey Paper company and after building its plant was made vice-president of the concern, advancing to the presidency, in 1917, which he still retains. In 1916, at a sheriff's sale, Mr. Gardner purchased at Hamilton the National Box Board company, which at that time was in the hands of a receiver, and subsequently sold this concern to the Gardner Paper Board company, newly incorporated, of which he was made vice-president. In the fall of 1917 he was made president, and still holds this position. Mr. Gardner is one of the energetic business men of the Miami valley who has created his own opportunities and has made the most of his chances. Essentially a man of business, he has sought no political offices, and his only interest in public matters is that taken by all public-spirited citizens. He votes the Republican ticket and belongs to the First Baptist church of Middletown, and his fraternal connections are with the local lodges of the Masons and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. April 15, 1909, Mr. Gardner was united in marriage with Janet, daughter of William Blake and Louise (Stockstill) Earnshaw, of Dayton, Ohio. Mrs. Gardner was educated at Miss Knox School, Briar Cliff, N. Y., and is one of the popular younger matrons in Middletown's social circles. Mr. and Mrs. Gardner are the parents of two children: Edward Tytus, jr. and William Earnshaw.
John J. Gardner. Of the resourceful agriculturists who have fashioned their careers within the boundaries of Hanover township, one who has made a success of his life and is accounted one of the substantial citizens of his part of Butler county, is John J. Gardner. Mr. Gardner is a native of Newport, Ky., born December 2, 1855, a son of Nicholas and Mary (Viellieber) Gardner, both of whom were born in Germany. Coming to the United States separately, before marriage, the parents met and were united in marriage in Newport, Ky., and after residing there several years came to Ohio and settled first near Hamilton. Later they resided near Darrtown, subsequently moving to Hanover township, and eventually settled permanently on the farm a part of which is occupied by their son. In the evening of life they retired from all active pursuits and took up their residence at Hamilton, where both passed away, honored and esteemed by those who knew them and recognized their many excellent traits of character. They were devout members of the Catholic faith and consistent attendants of St. Peter's Catholic church. Two children were born to them: Kate, who became the wife of John Lagagrost; and John J., of this notice. John J. Gardner attended the public schools of Hanover township, on Millville pike and at Bunker Hill, and eventually was sent to St. Stephen's parochial school of the Catholic church, at Hamilton. Returning home, he began assisting his father, and at the time of the latter's retirement from active affairs assumed management of the home farm, which he has conducted successfully to the present time. He owns ninety-two acres of land, on which he has added many
improvements to those planned and executed by his father, and has a comfortable residence, well-constructed barns and outbuildings and many of the comforts and luxuries known to the man whose agricultural energies have reached to the enlightenment of the twentieth century. Farming and stock raising have held his attention to the exclusion of other matters, but he takes a keen and intelligent interest in township affairs, and is ever ready to public-spiritedly assist worthy movements. Politically, he supports Democratic candidates and principles, and his religious faith is that of the Catholic denomination, he and the members of his family belonging to St. Peter's congregation at Hamilton. In 1888 Mr. Gardner was united in marriage with Carrie, daughter of John T. Lagagrost, of Hanover township, and to this union there were born two children: William, a resident of Hamilton; and Walter, who is deceased. The mother of these children died in 1895, and Mr. Gardner was subsequently married to Mrs. Lena (Sprauer) Ernst, widow of Joseph Ernst, who had three children by her first marriage: Joseph, who married Carrie Huber; Carrie, the wife of John Phillips; and Mary, the wife of John Lagagrost. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gardner: George, Paul and Hilda, all at home.
Peter C. Gardner is one of the enterprising agriculturists of Butler county and the owner of a well improved farm of eighty-one acres in Hanover township. He has always devoted his energies to farming and his efforts have been followed with excellent results, so that he is now one of the substantial citizens of his community. Mr. Peter C. Gardner was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, January 8, 1860, a son of John and Margaret (Schellenbach) Gardner. Peter's father came to America from Prussia, Germany, and his mother was a native of Paris, France. As a youth John Gardner accompanied his parents to the United States, the family settling in Fairfield township, Hamilton county, where he met Miss Schellenbach, who had been brought here by her parents, who located at Hamilton, Ohio, after their marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Gardner spent three years as residents of Hamilton county and then moved to Hanover township, Butler county, and occupied a farm near the present farm of their son Peter C. There they resided until the spring of 1885, when they moved to Hamilton, Ohio, and rounded out their .useful and honorable lives, in comfortable retirement. They were faithful members of the Catholic church and were laid to rest in St. Stephen's cemetery, Hamilton, Ohio. Their children were John, who became an Indian fighter on the western frontier and who is now a resident of San Francisco, Cal.; Peter C., who resides on his farm in Hanover township; Albert, who resides at 555 Park avenue, Hamilton, Ohio; and Anna, who is single, is also a resident of Hamilton, Ohio. Peter C. Gardner attended the public schools of Hanover township and St. Stephen's Parochial school of Hamilton and with the completion of his education took up farming for his father. He was married November 29, 1884, to Anna Thekla Mensch, daughter of John and Mary Mensch of Hamilton. After their union Mr. and Mrs. Gardner began housekeeping on the home place, where they resided for about
twenty years and then moved to their present farm, which they have brought to a high state of fertility and productiveness. They are included among the substantial people of their community and can be counted on to support all worthy measures. During the war period they not only gave four of their sons to the service of their country but were liberal in their contributions to all war activities. They are faithful members of St. Peter's Catholic church. Mr. Gardner is a staunch Democrat and takes an active and helpful interest in civic affairs, being at this time a member of the board of township trustees of Hanover township. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Gardner are the parents of nine children: Albert, who went overseas with Company H, 4th U. S. Infantry and was in the following engagements: Aisne Def., June 5, 1918; Champagne Def. Marne, July 15 to 18, 1918; Aisne Marne Off. September 12 to 16, 1918; Meuse Argonne Off. September 26 to November 11, 1918; (Signed R. E. Gillesby Captain Company H, 4th U. S. Infantry); John, who went overseas with Company D, 22nd Engineers, was in the following engagements: St. Mihiel and Meuse Argonne fronts; Joseph, who went overseas with the 142d Field Artillery was engaged on the Meuse Argonne front from September 6 to November 11, 1918; Peter, who was stationed at Springfield, Mass., and acted as U. S. guard at Springfield rifle plant until his discharge from service; the other three sons, Bernard, Owen and Jacob were engaged in farming, and two daughters, Miss Margaret, who resides with her parents on the farm and Lena, who married Mr. Clayton Baker, a farmer of Butler county, and have two children, a daughter, Ruth, and a son, Elwood Baker. All of the children were given good educational advantages and have grown to be a credit to their rearing and to their community.
Robert Brewster Gardner. When he entered upon his wage-earning career, Robert Brewster Gardner deliberately chose the hard although thorough route of learning his chosen business in all its details, and therefore accepted a position as laborer. From this his advancement has been steady and continuous, and at the present time he is treasurer of the Colin Gardner Paper company, the Gardner-Harvey Paper company and the Gardner Paper Board company, of Middletown. He was born in this city, July 21, 1890, being a son of Colin and Elizabeth (Tytus) Gardner, a full sketch of whose careers will be found in the review of his father elsewhere in this work. Mr. Gardner was a student up to the eighth grade of the grammar school at Middletown, and later went to Hotchkiss Preparatory school, Lakeville, Conn. Returning to Middletown in the fall of 1910, he began work as a laborer at the plant of the Gardner-Harvey Paper company. Subsequently, he was promoted to receiving clerk and then to shipping clerk, and later was made assistant secretary of the Colin Gardner Paper company and the Gardner-Harvey Paper company. In 1918 he was made treasurer of these two concerns and of the Gardner Paper Board company, and still acts in this capacity. He is an energetic and capable young business man, who knows his business thoroughly in all its details, and who is devoting his entire time thereto, with the result that he has found no opportunity to engage in public
affairs or fraternal life. He is a Republican voter, and his religious connection is with the First Baptist church of Middletown. Mr. Gardner was married May 21, 1913, to Edna, daughter of Edgar Mott and Katherine (Prather) Woolley, of Cincinnati, and to this union there have been born two children: Elizabeth Tytus and Robert Brewster, jr.
Andrew Jackson Garner. Among the substantial farmers of Butler county is Andrew Jackson Garner, whose attractive residence and productive farm are situated in Reily township. Mr. Garner has passed his entire life in Butler county, where he was born September 26, 1842, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Keever) Garner, the former of Virginia and the latter of Pennsylvania, Samuel Garner was but nine years of age when his parents brought their family in a covered wagon to Ohio, and moved on to Missouri, where they later died, he was bound out to a family named Richmond, living near Millville. There he spent his boyhood and youth in hard work, but when he attained his majority he came into possession of eighty acres of land, part of a property that had been entered years before by his father in Reily township. This he cleared from the heavy timber, put up a log cabin, and made a home in section 26, and passed the rest of his life in agricultural pursuits, becoming well known and highly esteemed in his community as a practical farmer, a good citizen and a kind neighbor. He and his wife became the parents of twelve children: Rebecca, deceased, who married John Dunwiddy; William, deceased, who married Anna Whalen; Henry, one of the oldest Odd Fellows in the state of Ohio, who married Mary Pierson and after her death Emma Welliver, and having been stricken with blindness, he is now passing the evening of life at the Odd Fellows Home, at Springfield, Ohio; Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of David Royhmil; John, deceased, who married Sarah Macklin; Samuel, who married Anna Byrne; Lydia, deceased, who married David Discumbus; Mary, deceased, who married Joseph Everson; Susan, deceased, who married George Ragsdale; George W., a farmer of Reily township, now living retired, who married Susan K. Welliver; Andrew Jackson, of this notice; and Catherine, the widow of James Hawk, of Harrison, Ohio. Five of the above brothers were soldiers of the Union during the Civil war, all belonging to Company I, 167th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Andrew Jackson Garner attended the public schools of Reily township, after leaving which he started farming for his father, and so continued until his marriage, in 1866 to Marietta, daughter of Ammon and Susan Stitzel. There were five children in the Stitzel family: Harvey, who served as a soldier during the Civil war; John, Ammon, Alfred and Marietta. Andrew J. Garner was also a soldier of the Civil war, being a member of the 167th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Capt. Samuel Wickard and Col. Thomas Moore. He had a good record for faithful performance of duty and bravery in action. After his marriage Mr. Garner settled on his father's farm, on which he continued to make his home until 1894, when he bought his present property, the old William Thompson farm in
Reily township, where he has since carried on general farming and stock raising, and at the present time is the owner of twelve fine Shorthorns. His farm is noted for its modern improvements and its substantial buildings, and as a citizen Mr. Garner is held in high esteem, his public spirit and loyalty having been definitely proven during the great war when he subscribed freely to all war activities. Mr. Garner's first wife died in 1872, having been the mother of three children: Ella, deceased, who married Harry Grisholm and had a daughter, Ethel, who married Harvey Kochendafer and has a child; Hattie, the wife of Horace Brown, of Reily township; and Clayton, deceased. In 1872 Mr. Garner married Mary Gillespie, a review of whose family will be found elsewhere in this work in the sketch of her brother, John Gillespie.
George W. Garner. This honored Civil war veteran, who is now a retired resident of Reily township, was born in that township, November 15, 1839, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Keever) Garner, the former of Virginia and the latter of Pennsylvania. Samuel Garner was but nine years of age when he accompanied his parents in a covered wagon to Ohio, but his parents subsequently moved on to Missouri, where both died, and Samuel was bound out to a family named Richmond, living near Millville. His boyhood and youth were filled with hard work, but when he reached man's estate he secured eighty acres of the land which his father had entered years before in Reily township, and this he cleared from the heavy timber, put up a log cabin, and made a home in section 26. He passed the rest of his life there in agricultural pursuits and became well known and highly esteemed in his community. He and his wife became the parents of twelve children: Rebecca, deceased, who married John Dunwiddy; William, deceased, who married Anna Whalen; Henry, one of the old members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Ohio, who, since being stricken with blindness, has resided at the Odd Fellows Home at Springfield, Ohio, married Mary Pierson, and after her death Emma Welliver; Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of David Royhmil; John, deceased, who married Sarah Macklin; Samuel, who married Anna Byrne; Lydia, deceased, who married David Discumbus; Mary, deceased, who married Joseph Everson; Susan, deceased, who married George Ragsdale; George W., of this notice; A. J., of Morgan township, Butler county, who married Mary Stitzel, and after her death Mary Gillespie; and Catherine, the widow of James Hawk, of Harrison, Ohio. Five of the above brothers were soldiers of the Union during the war between the States, all belonging to Company I, 167th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. George W. Garner grew up in the midst of pioneer surroundings and acquired his education in the primitive log cabin schoolhouse of his locality, which was fitted with puncheon seats. He was married in 1862 in Reily township, to Susan K., daughter of P. J. B. and Elizabeth (Everson) Welliver, of Reily township, and a granddaughter of Obediah and Hannah (Johnson) Welliver. Hannah was but seventeen years old when she married Obediah Welliver and almost immediately after her union joined her husband in a six-week' trip
overland in a covered wagon to the new Ohio country, and never saw her parents thereafter. She and her husband, who were both Pennsylvanians, secured land from the United States Government at Bunker Hill, and in addition to doing some farming kept a tavern which became very popular with the pioneers, with the result that they became well known and highly respected people of their community during the early days. P. J. B. Welliver was given educational advantages a little in advance of most of the youths of his day, and during his life was frequently called on by his fellow-townsmen to occupy positions of public trust. Following his marriage he lived for many years on the old home place, but eventually moved to Hamilton, at the time of his retirement, and there he and his wife both died in the faith of the Universalists. They had the following children: Emma, who married Henry Garner; Cynthia, who married George Clark, of College Corner; Susan K., who became Mrs. George W. Garner; Minerva, who married twice; Alfred Johnson, deceased, a banker of Hamilton, who married Carrie Frazee; Dr. James E., a physician of Dayton, now deceased; Lottie Jane, who married James Van Ness, of Hamilton; and Sarah and Nancy, who are deceased. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Garner: Cora, who married Edward Chrissman, a farmer of Reily township and member of the township board of trustees, has one daughter, Irene, who is the wife of Thomas Johnson of Richmond, Ind.; Annie, who married Samuel Lesher, and has two children, Abbie, who married Alvin Schwab and has a child, Brice, and Bessie, who married Henry Halter and has two children, - Samuel and the baby; Samuel J., who died in infancy; Jennie, who died at the age of thirteen years; and Emma, the widow of D. L. Stevenson, of Oxford, with two children, - Helen and Charles. At the time of his marriage, Mr. Garner located in a two-room log cabin, but shortly thereafter enlisted for service in the Union army, and during the time he was wearing his country's uniform his wife carried on the farm. When he was honorably discharged, with an excellent record, he returned to the farm, where he remained for two years, and then built the home where he now lives, and where he has 160 acres of good land. When he started operations on this property the land was all in heavy timber, but Mr. Garner cleared it and put it under the plow, and when he retired from active pursuits, at the age of seventy years, he had a fertile and productive tract. Mr. Garner's energy was such, during his active years, that he not only cultivated his own land, but worked as high as five other farms. He is still active and alert, with clear mind and all his faculties, and both he and Mrs. Garner are evidencing the benefits accruing from clean and well-lived lives. They are faithful Universalists, and Mr. Garner is a strict prohibitionist.
William E. Garner. Perhaps in no other line of human endeavor is more conscientious and concentrated effort given to obtaining results than in agriculture. Because of the remarkable progress made in scientific farming within recent years and the well-known pride that each owner takes in developing his acres to
the highest point of productivity there is naturally keen rivalry among the farmers which is invariably friendly, although at times assumes the aspect of sharp business competition. Undoubtedly, no other agriculturist in Riley township, Butler county, Ohio, has more reason to feel elated over what he has achieved with his 278 acres than William E. Garner, who has the greatest faith in the future of the farm lands in this section of the state and who is justly proud over the demonstrated productivity of his holdings. To say that Mr. Garner owns one of the most desirable farms in the state of Ohio would not be exaggerating in the least, as the annual crop returns have been such as to warrant the assertion that his tract is one of the most productive of its size in the state. Also it might be stated that the quality of the yield of the grains and various items of farm produce is of the highest. Personally, Mr. Garner is a man to be admired for his enterprise and energy and the results of his activities are best attested by the enviable success which he has had with his farm. Born in Riley township October 11, 1859, he was the third in order of birth of six children of Samuel and Anna (Byrne) Garner, the others being Maggie B., who became Mrs. William McCoy, but is now deceased; Samuel J., deceased; Mary, who married John Flannigan; Harry of Millville and Alice, deceased. Samuel Garner was born in Riley township and his wife was a native of County Cork, Ireland. She came to this country with her parents at a tender age, her father expiring on a boat during a voyage on the Ohio river. The family located in Cincinnati and later with her two brothers moved to Riley township, Butler county. Immediately after their marriage the parents of William Garner settled on a farm nearby his present abode and both continued to live there until the time of their deaths. William Garner had all the advantages of a good public school education and as he was studious and steadfast he made the most of these opportunities. In addition to attending the Riley township school he also studied in Millville, where his parents resided two years. February 6, 1901, he married Mary E. Remp, daughter of John and Harriet (Brown) Remp, in Ross township. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Remp, - Mary E., Walter, George, Martin, who is a professor in Wooster college, and Olive, wife of the secretary of the agricultural department of Ohio State university. After their marriage William Garner and wife moved to the farm where they now reside. They are the parents of two children, Hary Lee and Hattie Bell. Socially, William Garner and wife are popular in their section, being admired as desirable neighbors and friends. The recent war activities occupied much of the attention of Mr. Garner and he discharged his duties in each connection admirably.
Innis T. Geary, son of John and Elizabeth (Fiscus) Geary, was born near Kittanning, Armstrong county, Pa. He came of sturdy ancestors who proved their worth and patriotism. His great-grandfather, kidnapped in England when four years of age and held until he became seventeen, came to America and fought for Freedom's cause in the Revolutionary war. His father was a veteran of the Civil war from 1861 to 1864, and for four months suffered blindness
from injuries sustained while in service. The subject of this sketch was married to Mary A. Hanna, also a native of Armstrong county, March 29, 1889, at Apollo, Armstrong county, and to the couple were born two sons: Clarence Mervin, now twenty-eight years of age and Gaily Floyd, now twenty-five. The former married Florence J. Shafor, of Hillsboro, Ohio, and the latter married Esther Shafor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Shafor of Jacksonboro, Ohio. Gaily Floyd was also in service during the late war, stationed at Portsmouth, Ohio, as examiner for the British government. Mr. Geary was one of a large family, the children being: Francis, Emeline, Innis, Mary Agnes, Margaret, Olive, Orlo W., James, deceased, Joseph Walter. His mother died in April, 1882; his father in 1901. Mr. Geary came to Middletown nineteen years ago and became identified with the American Rolling Mill company, as a roller, and at the present time is president of the Co-operative Supply company. He is a man of strong character and wide intelligence, a close reader and student and withal very conservative. He has frequently been solicited to accept public office, but prefers private life; he served without pay as a member of the Charter Commission of Middletown. Mr. Geary lives in a beautiful concrete block home of nine rooms on Garfield avenue, and owns also other valuable property. He is a member of the Methodist church, and pronounces himself as "liberal in politics."
Albert Gebhart. Prominent among the representatives of the agricultural industry in Butler county, one who has passed his entire life here and has contributed to the development of his community is Albert Gebhart of St. Clair township. Mr. Gebhart is now retired somewhat from active affairs, having turned over the tasks of the farm to younger shoulders, but still maintains a keen interest in matters agricultural, supervises the operation of his property, and continues to exercise his energy and influence in behalf of measures promoting good citizenship and general advancement. Mr. Gebhart was born on the farm which he now owns, June 30, 1854, and belongs to one of the old and highly respected families of this part of the Miami valley. His grandfather was George Gebhart, of Pennsylvania, who first came to Montgomery county with his parents as a child, and later settled here permanently in 1848, when he located four miles east of Miamisburg. He was married in that community to Sarah Zortman, of Pennsylvania stock, and subsequently took up land in Hanover township, but after several years removed to St. Clair township and secured 179 acres of land, upon which he made many improvements and built a full set of buildings including a commodious brick house and barn. He died on his farm at the age of eighty-one years, while Mrs. Gebhart passed away at the age of seventy-nine years at Trenton. They were faithful members of the Lutheran church. Martin Gebhart, the only child of his parents, and father of Albert Gebhart, was born in Hanover township, Butler county, and died here in March, 1874, at the age of forty-eight years. He married Mary Ellen, daughter of Robert and Susan Busenbark, of New Jersey, and granddaughter of Robert Busenbark, also of that state, who was an early settler of Butler county, locating in section 12, St. Clair township. Subsequently he
carried on farming operations in section 1, but in his declining years moved to Trenton, where his death occurred, his widow passing away at West Elkton. In addition to farming, Mr. Busenbark carried on grain dealing. Robert and Margaret Busenbark were the parents of eight children: David, Robert, Redding, Doc, Mary, Ellen, Eliza and Margaret, all of whom are now deceased. Following his marriage Martin Gebhart located in section 14, St. Clair township, where he purchased a farm of 160 acres from Adam Gunkle. This had a brick house of six rooms, but Mr. Gebhart later built another brick house, the one in which Albert Gebhart now lives, a ten-room structure erected in 1872. Prior to this, in 1865, he had built a barn, 44x74 feet, and his property was one of the fine country places of the county. Mr. Gebhart was always a farmer and also engaged successfully in raising stock. He was a staunch Democrat, and Mrs. Gebhart was a member of the Lutheran church. They were the parents of four children: Albert; Emma L., the wife of Wilson Scott, of Hartford City, Ind.; Mary, who married William Teadley, of LaCrosse., Wis.; and Margaret, wife of Henry Snively, of Ellwood City, Ind. Albert Gebhart received his education in the public schools and grew up at home. The only boy in the family, he remained with his parents, whom he cared for tenderly, and at the time of his father's death bought the interest of the other heirs in the home property, to which he has since added until he now has 210 acres. This is valuable and well-cultivated land, very productive and fertile, and on it Mr. Gebhart has successfully carried on general farming, in addition to which he has been prosperous in raising cattle, horses and hogs. He has given up a large part of his former labors, but still keeps a watchful eye over the management and operation of the property. Mr. Gebhart is well known and highly respected among the people of his township, where he has been prominent in good movements. He has been active in the work of the First Presbyterian church of Overpeck, which he assisted in building, and of which he has been an official for years. His political faith is that of the Democratic party. On November 10, 1878, Mr. Gebhart was married to Mary, daughter of George and Mary R. Wehr, natives of Germany who came to the United States as young married people and, after a short stay at Cincinnati, took up their abode in St. Clair township, where Mr. Wehr purchased a farm. There he continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits until the time of his death at the age of seventy-eight years. His widow survived him until the age of eighty-seven years and passed away at Seven Mile. They were members of the Reformed church and the parents of the following children: Lawrence, deceased; Annie, deceased, who was the wife of Leslie Warwick; Lena, who married Albert Smith, of Preble county, Ohio; Andrew, formerly a farmer of St. Clair township, but now retired and living at Hamilton; John, deceased, who married Ella Schenck; Margaret, of Seven Mile, widow of Lou Witherow; Mary, who became Mrs. Gebhart; and Lizzie, who married Emiel Whittman, of Seven Mile. Mr. and Mrs. Gebhart are the parents of one son: Clinton L., born on the old home place November 23, 1878, graduated from the Hamilton high
school, and for a time was clerk at the St. Charles hotel, Hamilton. After two years he resigned, and for the past fifteen years has been identified with the Second National bank of Hamilton, where he now holds the post of assistant cashier. Mr. Gebhart is a member of the Y. M. C. A. He married Miss Pearl Morton.
Daniel Gebhart. Among the native sons of Butler county who have won success and occupy an enviable and prominent position in agricultural circles is Daniel Gebhart, who is now engaged in extensive operations on the Franklin road, near Middletown. His salient characteristics are determination, diligence and keen sagacity and upon these he has builded his prosperity, winning high and well-merited measure of success. Mr. Gebhart was born near Poast Town, Butler county, Ohio, in 1875, a son of George H. L. and Caroline H. (Williamson) Gebhart. The family is an old and honored one in the county, where it was founded in pioneer days by the great-grandfather of Daniel Gebhart, John Gebhart, a native of Berks county, Pa., who rounded out his later years in the vicinity of Miamisburg. Daniel Gebhart, the grandfather of Daniel of this notice, was also born in Berks county, Pa., and was still a youth when he accompanied his parents to Ohio. In later years he located in Madison township, Butler county, where he engaged in farming, and also assisted in the building of the state dam, after which he was in the habit of shipping hogs on the canal to Cincinnati. His son, George H. L. Gebhart, was born on the Madison township farm and passed his active years in the cultivation of the soil, being one of his community's substantial citizens. The education of Daniel Gebhart was secured in the district schools of Butler county, and this locality has always been his home. He has never had a cause to wish for a change of location, for here he has found material success, contentment and many friendships and his career has been along pleasant lines. As an industrious, painstaking and progressive agriculturist, he has been able to develop a valuable property, consisting of ninety-seven acres, and on this highly productive land carries on tobacco growing upon a large scale and also does general mixed farming, in both of which lines he has met with prosperity. His transactions have been carried on in a way that assures him of the confidence of his fellows in his integrity. Fraternally, Mr. Gebhart belongs to the Independent Order of Foresters, and his political inclinations are toward the support of the Democratic party and its candidates, although he is somewhat liberal in his views. In 1898 Mr. Gebhart married Mary, daughter of Jacob and Clara (Bowers) Webber, of Butler county, and they have five children: Susie, born July 26, 1900; Clara, born June 23, 1909; Marie, born March 21, 1911; Carol, born August 3, 1913; and Jacob, born January 10, 1917.
Edwin D. Gebhart, who is now actively and profitably engaged in general farming and tobacco growing on Brown's Run, near Middletown, belongs to one of Butler county's old and highly honored families. The present generation owes a debt of gratitude to the pioneers of the Miami valley that can never be repaid. The trials and hardships endured by them to make this region what it is
today, one of the foremost in the Union, cannot be realized by those enjoying the present comforts of an advanced civilization. The grandfather of Edwin D. Gebhart, Daniel Gebhart, was a pioneer of Butler county from Berks county, Pa.; one who, in early life, knew nothing of present day comforts; who, in his boyhood, never dreamed that there was much else in this life than hard work and a struggle for existence. He was still a young man when he came to Butler county and settled in the vicinity of Middletown, which was not in that early day the highly cultivated, prosperous section now known, but was covered in large part by a heavy growth of timber that had to be cleared away that in its place might be planted the crops. In that work the young manhood of Mr. Gebhart was passed, and those who were personally acquainted with him knew well how he applied himself to his task and with what satisfying results. His industry eventually gained him a competence, and in his later years he enjoyed all the comforts and conveniences of life. His son, George Gebhart, the father of Edwin D., was born in Butler county and inherited many of the sturdy pioneer's good qualities. Like him, he was an energetic and industrious man, who, in the winning of a modest fortune, at all times held the respect and confidence of his fellow-men. Edwin D. Gebhart is a great-grandson of Caroline H. Davidson, who was born February 21, 1794, in the State of Delaware, and who, on account of the death of her mother when she was an infant, was reared by her grandmother in New Jersey. She was married March 15, 1815, to Arthur Williamson, of Monmouth county, N. J., who was born November 12, 1792, and died July 9, 1848, she surviving him until December 15, 1878. Of their children, David was born April 11, 1817, and died September 5, 1845, his wife Rachel dying December 31, 1868; Robert was born January 17, 1824, and died October 26, 1846; Absalom was born June 27, 1827, and died November 18, 1905; Ann Mariah was born July 31, 1830, and died August 21, 1852; Henry V. was born February 14, 1838, and died January 25, 1899; and Jane B. died January 24, 1897. Edwin D. Gebhart received his education in the district schools of Butler county, and grew to manhood under the parental roof. He has always been an agriculturist, having probably inherited a predilection for that vocation from a long line of farming forebears, and now carries on mixed operations, with tobacco growing as a specialty. His property is located on Brown's Run, not far from Middletown, and is well improved with good buildings and the soil has been brought to a high state of productiveness through the intelligent use of modern methods of treatment. Mr. Gebhart is interested in educational matters, and has served as a member of the school board in his community. He is fraternally affiliated with the Independent Order of Foresters, and his political allegiance is given to the Democratic party. He is unmarried and makes his home with a sister, Mrs. Bowlus.
James B. Gillespie, son of Robert H. and Margaret (Bigham) Gillespie, was born in Hanover township, Butler county, December 24, 1856. His father was born in Hanover township, son of Hunter and Hannah (Bridge) Gillespie. Robert Gillespie was their only
child. Hannah Bridge Gillespie was the daughter of James and Martha (Dick) Bigham of Morgan township. Their children were Margaret; Susan, now Mrs. Garrison; Sarah now Mrs. Baldridge. The parents of James B. Gillespie, the subject of this biography lived near Hitesman's Hill, Hanover township, and here James Gillespie came into the world. Later the family moved to Millville and settled there. Robert H. Gillespie, James' father, and his mother died, in later years. To them were born the following children: James B., Hannah, now deceased, married Gil Kimler; Hunter, who lives in Ross township; Martha, the wife of Isaac Dick; Charles, deceased; Elmy, who married Sam Timberman, of Ross Township; Ida, deceased, who married Frank Beal; Orie, who married May Fisher, now living in Hanover township; Edward, who married Miss Gerger. James B. Gillespie went to school at Millville. On January 3, 1883, he married Elizabeth Roll, daughter of David and Julia (Brosier) Roll. Mr. Roll was a native of Hanover township, as was also his wife, who was the daughter of John and Martha Ann (Hitesman) Brosier. Mr. and Mrs. David Brosier always lived in Hanover township. They had one son, who died in infancy, and two daughters, Anna, who is Mrs. Allen Gillespie, and Elizabeth, James B. Gillespie's wife. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. James B. Gillespie resided in Hanover township, and later moved to their present home, the old Hunter Gillespie homestead, where Mr. Gillespie had 175 acres, with 125 in Ross township. Mr. and Mrs. James B. Gillespie were the parents of Irma, who married Jess Butterfield, and now living near Venice; Mr. and Mrs. Butterfield have had two children, Edna Elizabeth, and Paul, who died when five years old; Clyde, who married Edith Clarke, of Venice, they have one child, James Williams, who lives in Ross township; Noah, who is unmarried. The family are Presbyterians. Mr. Gillespie was a Democrat and was identified with all war activities. He died November 14, 1919.
Andrew J. Elrick. By dint of natural ability and perseverance, Andrew J. Elrick has won a substantial position among the reliable citizens of Middletown, at which place he is employed as a roller in the American Rolling mill. He is a self-made man and his career has been one in which he has had to depend only upon his own ability and resource, which have been strong enough to win him contentment and a goodly share of prosperity. Mr. Elrick was born August 5, 1882, at Cedarville, Ohio, a son of David McCullough and Addie (Jameson) Elrick. When he was a lad the family moved to Alexandria, Ind., where David M. Elrick was successfully engaged in contract work, a line which he followed until his death, April 29, 1919. Mrs. Elrick still survives and makes her home at Middletown with her son, who has one sister, Mrs. William Stringhman, of this city. Andrew J. Elrick was educated in the public schools of Alexandria, Ind., where for a short time he was employed by his father in contract work, but eventually turned his attention to his present line, and in 1901 came to Middletown to accept a position with the American Rolling Mill company, with which he has been identified ever since. He now discharges the duties of roller, a position in which he has displayed physical endurance, marked intelligence and unremitting perseverance, so that he stands high in the favor of his employers as one to be depended upon. Mr. Elrick was married December 23, 1901, to Marie Dakin, born September 16, 1885, at Franklin, Ohio, daughter of Ira and
, born August 14, 1882; and Charles Horace, born January 28, 1885. Edwin Allen Fessenden was educated in the public schools, at St. Louis Manual Training school and at the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he was graduated in 1904. After spending one year at Springfield as a mechanical engineer, he was appointed to the University of Missouri as assistant professor of mechanical engineering, and in 1916 became professor of mechanical engineering in the State College of Pennsylvania. He married Abigail Sayward Roper, of Springfield, Ill., who died December 31, 1915, leaving one child, Mary E. For his second wife, Mr. Fessenden married Louisa French Matheney, also of Springfield. Charles Horace Fessenden attended the public schools, the St. Louis Manual Training school, and the University of Missouri, and after his graduation from the last-named, in 1906, went to New York City. He was with the Aultman-Taylor Manufacturing company of Mansfield, Ohio, for one year, and was then appointed professor of mechanical engineering in the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor. In June, 1917, he enlisted in the United States service and received his commission as captain in the ordnance department, and was located at the Frankfort Arsenal, Philadelphia, Pa. Timothy D. Fessenden is a Chapter Mason at Flora, Ill., and a member of the Commandery at Olney, Ill., and his sons are also members of this order. The entire family belongs to the Presbyterian church, which the parents attend at Seven Mile.
