300

until 1912, when he bought his present farm of 212 acres, which he conducts as a stock and dairy farm, keeping fifteen milch cows and annually feeding 150 head of hogs: Mr. Hauserman owns 362 acres of valuable land in Union township and his home place is well improved with comfortable and substantial buildings such as are necessary to wholesome farm life and the carrying on of large farm industries. In 1889 Mr. Hauserman married Miss Emma, daughter of Henry Heisel, and they have three children: Cora; Ada, wife of Ernest Anderson: and Stanley. As a prominent citizen of his township in a business way, Mr. Hauserman has often been tendered public office, but has declined, although always interested in public matters and giving his political support to the Republican party.

Hon. Wes1ey B. Hedding, who for many years has been a progressive and representative citizen of Midd1etown, was born at Milton, Northumberland county, Pa., in 1827, a son of William and Susan (Black) Hedding, and a grandson of William Hedding of New Jersey. The Black family originated in Ireland, while the father of Squire Hedding was born in Pennsylvania, and the parents came to Butler county in 1843, locating in Lemon township, where William Hedding continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits during the remainder of his life. Wesley B. Hedding was sixteen years of age when the family came to Butler county, and here his education was completed in the country schools, following which time he was engaged in farming. Subsequently he mastered the trade of blacksmith, and while following this vocation was appointed postmaster at Lesourdsville, Ohio, a position which he held for two years. Moving to Middletown at that time, he resumed his trade, and during the administration of President Buchanan was appointed United States deputy marshal, a capacity in which he took part in settling the difficulties with the negroes at Chillicothe. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the Union army for service during the Civil war, becoming a member of Company I, 83d Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and took part in many engagements, including the siege of Vicksburg and the fighting in the Gulf. After a brave and faithful service he was mustered out at Cincinnati, in 1865, and returned to Middletown, where he secured employment as a clerk in the grocery store of James H. Mitchell. Subsequently, he was with James P. Curtis for eighteen months, and was then connected with J. M. Johnson in the dry goods business for two years, and later for four years in the same line with Simon Goldman. During that time he was elected justice of the peace and held that position for a period of thirty-five years. His judgment, sagacity, knowledge of human nature and absolute sense of justice made Squire Hedding one of the most popular officials who ever discharged the duties of this office and brought to him public confidence and high esteem. Eventually, he was chosen mayor of Middletown, and his first term was followed by three re-elections. Every measure for the advancement of Middletown along material, social and intellectual lines received his endorsement and encouragement, and to him in no little degree are due a number of the advantages which the city now possesses. His means, advice and energy were often called upon and freely given in

301

matters of moment and importance. As a member of the school board, he worked faithfully in behalf of the children and for an elevation of school standards and the betterment of the system. As a Democrat, he gave his support to that party's candidates, and his fraternal affiliations are with the local lodges of the Masons and Odd Fellows, in both of which he is popular with his fellow-members and his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Hedding was married in 1869 to Miss Malinda Faries, daughter of Isaac C. and Mary (Selby) Faries, both born and reared in Butler county, and a granddaughter of Joseph Faries, also a native of this county, and great-granddaughter of Joseph Faries, who came from New Jersey. The Selby family was originally from Maryland. The strong traits in Squire Hedding's character have been such as to endear him to all with whom he has come in contact.

John L. Hedges began his career in Hamilton county in 1883 as an agriculturist and at the time of his death, in 1903, he was one of his community's prosperous and prominent agriculturists and a citizen who had high standing and reputation among his fellow-men. Mr. Hedges was born in Colerain township, Hamilton county, Ohio, a son of Stephen O. and Sarah (White) Hedges, and a grandson of Elias Hedges, who came to Ohio from Morristown, N. J., and whose grandson, Elias Hedges, jr., fought as a soldier in the Civil war. The children of Stephen O. and Sarah Hedges were: Elias, just mentioned; John L., of this notice; and Amelia, the widow of I. B. Willey. The education of John L. Hedges was acquired in the public schools, supplementing this by attendance at the select schools of his time and locality. When he put aside his schoolbooks, for several years he was his father's assistant in carrying on the work of the home place, but in 1883 founded a household of his own when he was united in marriage with Johanna, daughter of William and Mary (Kennedy) Curry. The parents of Mrs. Hedges were born in Limerick, Ireland, in which country they were married, and on their arrival in the United States settled near Evansville, Ind., but later moved to Crosby township, Hamilton county, Ohio, and then to Colerain county, where they passed the rest of their lives in agricultural pursuits. They were the parents of the following children: Michael, Patrick, Anna, Mary, John, Johanna, Ellen and William of whom Johanna, Mary and John survive. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hedges settled down to farming and so continued until the time of Mr. Hedges' death, which occurred September 23, 1903, burial being made at Venice cemetery. Mr. Hedges was a successful farmer and the owner of 220 acres of land, a part of which is still operated by Mrs. Hedges, who survives him in the midst of a circle of appreciative friends, having her own comfortable home at Venice. Throughout his life Mr. Hedges maintained a high reputation for honesty, public spirit and ability. He was a devout member of the Presbyterian church, to which faith Mrs. Hedges also belongs. She has reared two adopted daughters, Ruth and Margaret Taylor, the latter of whom is now the wife of Howard Carrol, superintendent of schools, at Mason, Ohio.

George H. Helvey. On the list of retired citizens of Hamilton

302

who during many years of earnest endeavor exercised their talents and abilities to such good effect that they were able to lay aside the labors of life at a comparatively early age and spend the remainder of their careers in the enjoyments of existence, and one who was long well known in manufacturing circles is George H. Helvey. One of the founders of the firm of Hoover, Owens & Rentschler, he was connected with that concern for more than two decades in the capacity of general superintendent and designer, and established a firm place for himself in the confidence and esteem of his business associates. Mr. Helvey was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, December 15, 1853, a son of Harmon and Catherine (Early) Helvey, the former a native of Europe and the latter of Cincinnati. Harmon Helvey was but five years of age when brought by his parents to the United States, and his education was secured in the graded schools of Cincinnati, where he was reared to manhood and married. A mechanic by trade, after coming to Hamilton in 1861, he was associated with the firm of Long, Black & Alstatter company until his retirement. He voted the Democratic ticket. He and Mrs. Helvey were the parents of eight children, namely: Joseph and Charles, who are now deceased; Edwin, of Connorville, who is married and has a family; Catherine, deceased, who was married and had two children; August, deceased, who was married and had one child; Anna, deceased, who was married and had two children; Frank, a resident of Hamilton, who is married and has six children; and George H. George H. Helvey was eight years of age when he accompanied his parents to Hamilton, and here he completed his education in the graded schools. He early took up the machinist's trade as a vocation and mastered its details, following that business until 1880 at various shops and with a number of enterprises. In 1880 he became one of the founders, as noted, of the concern of Hoover, Owens & Rentschler, becoming general superintendent and designer, his business associates in this venture being J. C: Hoover, president; G. A. Rentschler, vice-president; Henry Sohn, secretary and treasurer; Joseph E. Owens and James E. Campbell. In 1882 this business was incorporated, and Mr. Helvey continued to be connected therewith until his retirement in 1901. In 1873 he was married to Mary E., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Heck, the former born in Germany and the latter at Nashville, Tenn. In 1889 Mr. Helvey purchased a home at Hamilton, remodeled it and lived therein until September, 1917, when he sold it. Since that time he and his wife have resided at Dair's Flats, and spent their winters in California. They are the parents of two children: Clarence Harmon and George Stanley. Clarence H. Helvey was born April 27, 1874, at Hamilton, where he attended the graded and high schools. He learned the machinist's trade as well as the calling of draughtsman, and is at present associated with the firm of Black & Clawson in the capacity of sales engineer. He married Gertrude Williams, of this city, and following their marriage built a home at No. 318 S. D street, where they now reside. He is a thirty-second degree Mason and Shriner and a member of the Hamilton club, Butler County Country club, Chamber of Commerce, American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Y. M. C. A.

303

George Stanley Helvey was given a graded and high school education and is also a graduate in mechanical engineering of the Ohio State University, where he took a four-year course. At this time he is secretary and treasurer of the Miami Foundry company of Miamisburg Ohio. George H. Helvey has always interested himself in civic affairs in the way that aids the community and its people and has been a constructive and helpful citizen. During the administration of Mayor Charles Busch he was a member of the first board of sewer commissioners of Hamilton, his associates being Dr. S. L. Beeler, L. P. Clawson, Peter E. Schwab and Patrick Burns. He is a member of the Hamilton club, the Butler County Country club and the Automobile Club of Southern California. His political beliefs incline him to support the Republican party.

Anthony J. Hemsteger. Among the most favorably known and comfortably circumstanced of the employees of the American Rolling mill at Middletown, is Anthony J. Hemsteger. He is one of the fortunate few representing this element of the community whose diligent exertions and good management have enabled them, while still in the prime of life, to enjoy the rewards of unremitting industry under conditions of sound health, contentment and freedom from care, while still discharging his duties as superintendent of the sheet mills at the central works of his company. Mr. Hemsteger was born at Pi qua, Ohio, April 3, 1877, a son of Joseph and Theresa (Dobmeyer) Hemsteger. His father was born in Germany and was still a lad when he accompanied his parents to the United States, the family settling at West Alexandria where Joseph Hemsteger became identified with the tailoring business. Later he moved to Piqua, Ohio, where his death was caused by an attack of the grippe, in 1889, but his widow survived him until August 29, 1902. They were the parents of twelve children, as follows: two who died in infancy; Joseph M. A., who died at the age of thirty-seven; Francis died at the age of six years; Benjamin, who died at the age of forty years; Louise, who died at Columbus, Ohio, in 1918; Clara, who is now Mrs. Michael Kramer, of Columbus, Ohio; Rose, who is unmarried and a resident of Columbus; Margaret, who married Richard Ferman, of Piqua; Mame, who married John Alexander of Dayton; Edward, of Columbus; and Anthony J., of this review. Anthony J. Hemsteger received his education in the Catholic schools of Piqua, Ohio, where, at the age of fourteen years, he entered the Third National bank, with which he continued to be identified until 1900. In that year he became identified with the American Sheet & Tin Plate company, at Piqua, and in 1911 was transferred to Middletown, where he associated himself with the American Rolling Mill company, as superintendent of the sheet mills at the central works, his present post, He is one of the most trusted of his company's employees and deserves the confidence in which he is held, for he is industrious, painstaking and thoroughly conscientious, as well as capable and competent in any matter which he undertakes. He is a Republican in his political affiliation and is a man of fine presence and very popular. With his family, he belongs to Holy Trinity Catholic church. April 19, 1896, Mr. Hemsteger married Florence

304

Margaret, daughter of Elijah and Olive (Lawder) Fristoe of Sidney, Ohio, and to this union .there has been born one son, Samuel, aged twenty-one years, who is attending the Ohio State university and spent several months in the students training camp last year.

Rollin J. Henley. From the unvarying hard daily work of a worker at a trade to the proprietorship of a flourishing and extensive business enterprise, from obscurity to prominence in the business world, and from dependence upon others to self-reliance and independence - these things form the advancement and progress made by Rollin J. Henley within the space of a few short years. At this time Mr. Henley is proprietor of the Modern Planing mill, at 318 N. B street, Hamilton, and occupies a place in the business world that has come to him as a result and reward of his own efforts. Mr. Henley was born at Straughn, Henry county, Ind., where he received a public school education, and as a young man learned the trade of carpenter with his father, Charles Henley, who was a carpenter at Straughn all his life and died at that place in 1900 at the age of fifty-six years. Charles Henley married Martha White, of Henry county, Ind., who now makes her home at Richmond, Ind. They had four sons and five daughters, but the only ones to come to Hamilton have been Rollin J. and his brother Claude, the latter of whom has always been a carpenter and is now carpenter foreman at Coke Otto, Ohio. Rollin J. Henley followed his trade at various places as a journeyman, and following nine years at Buffalo, N. Y., came to Hamilton in 1903. Here he entered the planing mill of S. D. Mayer, with whom he worked for a number of years, and in 1917 became its purchaser, this being his present property, known as the Modern Planing mill. This is a two story structure, 48x86 feet, and is operated by ten motors, one for each planer or machine. He manufactures sash, doors, screens, kitchen cupboards, china closets and high class mill and specialty work, and makes a specialty of automobile bodies, selling in seven different states. His mill is well equipped throughout with modern machinery, appliances and appurtenances, and his second floor is used as an assembling room. From a modest beginning, Mr. Henley has worked his way steadily upward to prosperity and has done so in a way that has gained and held for him the respect and esteem of his associates and business competitors alike. In August, 1903, Mr. Henley was united in marriage with Charlotte Voss, who was born at Williamsville, N. Y., and they are the parents of two daughters: Eliza Nora and Leota Beatrice. They are devout members of the Church of Christ. The pleasant family residence is located at No. 222 Millikin street, where they extend hospitality to their many friends. Mr. Henley maintains an independent stand in regard to politics, and has been too busy with his business affairs to be an aspirant for public honors. He has not, however, been indifferent to the responsibilities of citizenship and has been a supporter of all good and constructive movements which have secured the approval of his judgment. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the I. O. O. F. in its various branches, and Mrs. Henley belongs to the Rebekahs.

John Herberth, who is a representative citizen, successful

305

farmer and good business man of Union township, is well known over Butler and adjacent counties, through which he has distributed meat for some years. Mr. Herberth was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, March 15, 1859, son of Constant J. and Sabina (Miller) Herberth. Both parents were born in Alsace, France. The father was only nineteen years old when he came to the United States and spent the rest of his life here, for many years being engaged in the butchering business in the city of Washington, D. C. Of his five children, two only are living, John and William. John Herberth first attended a parochial school and later the public schools of Cincinnati, in the meantime working in different business houses in various capacities until he was eighteen years of age, at which time he learned the butcher's trade and continued in that line for the next twelve years. He then turned his attention to farming, buying a tract of fifty-five acres in Union township, which he improved and operated for the next ten years, at the end of which time he went into the butchering business on his farm and soon had such a volume of trade that he had to make use of two trucks to distribute to customers through Hamilton, Warren and Butler counties. He is a practical man and has made this feature profitable through honest, careful business methods, and has greatly accommodated many households through the country regularly supplying good, wholesome meat right at their own doors. Mr. Herberth's enterprise in this direction is much appreciated. In 1883 he married Caroline Ader, daughter of Frank and Barbara (Smith) Ader, and they have had five children, three of whom are living: William, who is a returned overseas soldier of the Great war, now honorably discharged, having served in the 83d Division, 132d Infantry, from March, 1918, to August, 1919; Barbara, who married Frank Schatzel, and they have the following children, Mary, Herbert, William, John, George and Robert; and Clara, who married John Vogelsang, and they have one child, Clara. Mr. Herberth and his family belong to the Roman Catholic church at West Chester. The confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens may be indicated by the fact that he has served continuously on the school board in Union township for twenty-two years. In his political opinions he is a sound Democrat.

Martin Hess. Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, seldom fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are usually attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunity for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and for self-improvement. It is along such lines that Martin Hess had won a substantial position among the agriculturists of Butler county, where he is the owner of a valuable and well-cultivated farm on the Franklin road. Mr. Hess was born at Alexandria, Campbell county, Ky., December 6, 1875, a son of William and Catherine (Smith) Hess. His father, a native of Germany, emigrated to the United States as a youth of eighteen

306

years and located in the vicinity of Alexandria, where he followed farming until 1883. In that year he removed to Butler county, Ohio, and purchased a fine farm of eighty acres, which he put under a high state of cultivation and improved by the erection of a set of valuable and attractive buildings. Later he purchased west of Middletown another farm, which he also improved, and upon which he spent the remainder of his life in industrious and successful agricultural operations. He was one of the highly esteemed men of his locality and had the goodwill and esteem of his neighbors and acquaintances. Martin Hess was eight years of age when he accompanied his parents to Butler county, and here his education was secured in the district schools. He grew to manhood on the home place, adopted farming as his life work, and was married February 16, 1897, to Miss Marie Elizabeth Pape. She was born in Germany and came to the United States as a child of twelve years, the family settling at Cincinnati, where she grew to womanhood. Mr. and Mrs. Hess are the parents of five children: Carrie Marie, Catherine Elizabeth, Gerhart William Martin, Clara Edna Louise and Rolland Albert. Mr. Hess is now the owner of the home place, consisting of seventy-seven acres of well-cultivated soil, on which he carries on mixed farming in addition to operating a large dairy. His career has been one in which he has exercised native talent and business ability with good results, combining these qualities with integrity and fidelity, and his standing among his fellows is accordingly high. In politics a Republican, he has not sought office or public preferment, but has contented himself with performing the duties of a good citizen. His religious connection is with St. Paul's Lutheran church of Middletown, of which Mrs. Hess and his children are also members.

Jabez Hetzler. Since its establishment in Butler county at an early date in the history of this community, the vocation of agriculture has received decided impetus through the labor and good judgment of the members of the Hetzler family. The present representative of this family in Madison township, who possesses the same characteristics that established the reputation of the earlier residents bearing that name, is Jabez Hetzler, of section 35, who was born in this township, November 6, 1861, a son of Gideon G. and Susanna (Lehmer) Hetzler. The pioneer founder of this family in Butler county was the great-grandfather of Jabez Hetzler, Peter Hetzler, a son of George Hetzler of Pennsylvania, and himself a native of that state, who settled on, Brown's Run, in Madison township, and there passed the rest of his life in farming. The great-grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution, who fought in the battle of the Brandywine, and was the father of nine sons and five daughters. Peter Hetzler, the grandfather, and his wife Nancy, had three children: Nancy, who married Joseph Stout and lived at Union City, Ind.; Peter, who married Mollie Wagner and lived in Darke county, O.; and Gideon G. Gideon G. Hetzler lived for seventy-six years on the old homestead, all of his life, with the exception of two years spent at Canton, and died at the home of his son, Gideon, in Darke county. He was a man of exemplary

307

character, an industrious and painstaking farmer, and a member of the United Brethren church. In politics he was a Republican. Mrs. Hetzler who died on the old homestead, was also a faithful member of the church, which Peter Hetzler had assisted in building in 1861. To Gideon C. and wife were born Jabez, William and Mary, all living. Jabez Hetzler attended the district schools of Madison township and remained on the homestead until 1885, in which year he went to Union City, Ind., where he spent two years. He then spent ten years in Montgomery county, O., but finally returned to Butler county, where he purchased the Walter Carney place of eighty acres, on which he now makes his home. He has made numerous improvements, among them being a fine barn, and carries on general farming in a modern and scientific way, raising tobacco and all kinds of grain. He is a staunch Republican in politics, and his religious connection is with the Union Chapel of the United Brethren church, which his grandfather helped to build. Mr. Hetzler is greatly interested in the early history of the region, and has a fine collection of relics of the pioneer days, including a number of primitive articles, all made by hand, among them being an ax, an auger, a fork and several chairs. In his community he is well known and highly respected for his industry and business reliability. Mr. Hetzler married Miss Lulu Hartley, of Bunker Hill, Ill., a daughter of Frank and Esther (Miller) Hartley, of Newton, Ind. Mrs. Hetzler's parents lived at various times in Indiana, Illinois, Kansas and Missouri, and her mother died at St. Louis, Mo., while her father passed away in Kansas. There were three children in the Hartley family: Mrs. Hetzler; Bertha M.; and Edgar, of Springfield, O. Mr. and Mrs. Hetzler have one son: Chester H., born February 22, 1886, who attended the home schools and spent two years in study at Germantown, and who has always lived at home, where he is his father's associate in his farming operations.

Thomas V. Hicks. It is not unusual to find the men of a family following the same line of activity for several generations, inherited inclinations causing son to follow father in a given line of work until it has become a family tradition to be so engaged. In the case of Thomas V. Hicks, of Middletown, there is found an illustration of this fact, for the Hicks family, for more than 200 years, has been identified in some way with the iron industry, the present subject being connected with the American Rolling mill. The family originated in Machen, Monmouthshire, Wales, where for many years its members were well known. Mr. Hicks' great-grandfather was William Hicks, and his grandparents, James and Martha Hicks, the latter born in 1785, while his parents were Isaac and Mary Ann (Vigors) Hicks. Thomas V. Hicks was born in Wales, April 11, 1863, and was about six months old when brought to the United States, the family locating at Cleveland, where his father, a refiner of iron, found employment. He continued to follow his chosen vocation during the remainder of his life and died at Cleveland, November 20, 1893, Mrs. Hicks having passed away there April 30, 1880, Thomas V. Hicks received his education in the public schools of Cleveland, and as a youth adopted the family vocation, which he has

308

always followed. After mastering his trade, he traveled quite extensively as a journeyman, and spent some time at Hammond Ind. and other places. In 1901 he came to Middletown, where he became associated with the American Rolling mill, and has since continued as an employee of this large plant, where he is engaged in heating sheet-iron. He is known as a skilled and industrious workman who has the best interests of the concern at heart and who is popular with his fellows at the plant. He was married February 5, 1910, to Lillian, daughter of Albert B. and Margaret Blanchard, of Cincinnati, and granddaughter of William Blanchard. To this union there has come one son: Robert Thomas. Mr. and Mrs. Hicks have their own home on Christel avenue, where they entertain their numerous friends. Mr. Hicks subscribes to the faith of the Socialist political party. His fraternal affiliation is with the Masons, in which he has attained the Knight Templar degree and he still holds membership in the blue lodge at Dresden, the Council and Commandery at Hamilton, and the Consistory at Dayton, and also affiliates with the R. A. M. at Middletown.

George W. Hileman, whose operations are conducted on one of the splendid farms of Fairfield township, Butler county, finds not only profit but also special satisfaction in the enterprise which thus engages his attention, for the farm is not only known as one of the best of its area in the county but is also the old homestead of his father, John Hileman, in whom the ownership of the property is still vested. Due record concerning' the family is given in the sketch of the career of the father, on other pages of this volume, so that further review is not demanded in the present connection. George W. Hileman was born at Symmes Corner, Fairfield township, December 22, 1868, and in the schools of his native township he received his early educational discipline. Thereafter he continued to be associated with his father's farm activities until he had attained to his legal majority, when he initiated independent operations by renting a part of the Slade farm, upon which he remained two years. For the ensuing three years he rented a farm near Schenck station, and the next three years found him similarly engaged on the DeForest farm, which he rented. He then, in 1900, removed to his father's fine homestead farm, which comprises 107 acres, all available for effective cultivation with the exception of seven acres. Here Mr. Hileman is giving prolific exemplification of the success which is to be achieved through modern and scientific methods of farm enterprise, and he thus has a secure place as one of the representative agriculturists of his native township, the while he is known as a liberal and public-spirited citizen well worthy of the unqualified esteem that is reposed in him. He has had no ambition for the activities of practical politics but is found arrayed loyally in the local ranks of the Democratic party. The year 1898 recorded the marriage of Mr. Hileman to Miss Martha E. Beeler, daughter of John and Martha A. Beeler, well known residents of Butler county, and the supreme loss and bereavement in the life of Mr. Hileman came when his devoted wife passed to eternal rest, in 1912. She is survived by seven children: Ivy, Harry, Earl, Albert, Freda, Eva and

309

Ada. Harry married Miss Bertha Vannati and they have two children, Elmer and Merle. Ada is the wife of Stanley Moore and they have three children, Everett, Gaylin and Raymond.

John S. Hileman, a retired farmer residing at Symmes Corner, Butler county, has long been associated with agricultural industry in this his native, county, and he is now one of the venerable and honored native sons of the county. John S. Hileman was born in Fairfield township, Butler county, November 14, 1842, and is a son of John and Nancy (Smiley) Hileman. The father was also born in this county, and the mother claimed Pennsylvania as the place of her nativity. John Hileman not only developed a productive farm in this county but also followed his trade, that of blacksmith, for a long period of years. Of the children the subject of this review is the eldest; and the names of the others are here given in respective order of birth: William, Mrs. Eliza Claybaugh, James, Mrs. Mary Miller and Daniel. John S. Hileman gained his initial farm experience in Butler county, and while he thus assisted in the work of the home farm he did not neglect the advantages that were offered in the common schools of the locality and period. His marriage was solemnized in 1866 and he and his young wife established their home at Symmes Corner. Later he engaged in farming on rented land, and finally he purchased a farm near Fairplay, where he continued his successful activities as an agriculturist and stock grower for many years. In 1900 Mr. Hileman and wife removed to their present attractive home at Symmes Corner, a pleasant little rural community in which they established their residence. He recently sold his farm, comprising 107 acres and known as one of the excellent places of Fairfield township. His political allegiance is given to the Republican party and he and his wife have been liberal in the support of religious work in their community. They are venerable representatives of pioneer families of the beautiful Miami valley, and their gracious and unassuming lives have won to them a host of friends. The year 1866 recorded the marriage of Mr. Hileman to Lydia Ellen Applegate, and their devoted companionship has thus continued during a period of more than half a century. Mrs. Hileman is a daughter of Hamilton and Olivia (Whelan) Applegate, both of whom were born and reared in Hamilton county, this state. The father was a potter by trade and for a number of years he operated a pottery in Mercer county. Of the children Mrs. Hileman is the eldest; John O. was next in order of birth; Catherine is the wife of Joseph Pierson; and Aaron and Margaret are deceased. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Hileman are George, who is a prosperous farmer in Fairfield township, married Martha E. Beeler, and they have seven children: Ivy, Harry, Earl, Ada, Freda, Albert and Eva. Earl was in active service with the American Expeditionary Force in France during the World war, and likewise saw service in connection with war activities in Italy. Charles is a substantial farmer in Fairfield township, married Alida Pfeiffer, and they have one child, Naomi. Benjamin, who is also connected with agricultural industry in Fairfield township, wedded Miss Olive Coombs, and they have two children, Echo and Edith. Burton, who resides at

310

Hamilton, married Miss Bessie Dickson, and their only child, Leroy, was in the nation�s military service in the late war, though his command did not go across seas. Jesse, the youngest of the children maintains his home at Hamilton, the maiden name of his wife having been Hattie Strait and their one child being a son, Orion. During the progress of the World war Mr. Hileman gave every possible aid to the government in its military activities, by subscription to the various loans, including the purchase of war savings stamps. His loyalty and patriotism have always been marked.

Thomas Hincks. For industry, skill in workmanship and fidelity to his company's interests, the American Rolling Mill company's list of employees contains no name more worthy of mention than that of Thomas Hincks, who during the period of his employment at Middletown has proven faithful to every trust imposed in him. He is a native of Manchester, England, and a son of Moses and Susan (Bristow) Hincks, who still survive. Mr. Hincks was a young man when he came to the United States and was variously employed at his trade until coming to Middletown, when he became a roller in the plant of the American Rolling mill, a position which he has since held. He is a Knight Templar Mason, is liberal in his political views, and, with his family, belongs to the Episcopal church. In 1917 he erected a handsome dwelling at the corner of Third and Monroe streets, where he entertains his numerous friends with lavish hospitality. Christmas Day, 1891, Mr. Hincks was united in marriage with Hannah Jane, daughter of George and Ellen (Robson) Davis, the former of whom died in June, 1891, and the latter November 17, 1.908. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hincks; Helen, who married Ralph A. Kerschbaum, and who is in the employ of the C. & R. R. R.; Susanna, who married Francis E. Williams, who was with the Motor Transport Corps at Camp Sherman for twelve months; George, who entered the United States Army in 1918 as a member of the Thirteenth Service Company of Aviators, at Camp Vail, N. J., George, after spending some fourteen months in this service, became a student in the Detroit (Mich.) university. Francis E. Williams, son-in-law of Mr. Hincks, also saw like service in the aviation corps at Camp Vail, N. J.; and Mabel and Thomas, jr., who reside with their parents. Francis E. Williams is a son of Frank H. and Dica (Keplinger) Williams, who came from Morrow to Middletown, Ohio, in 1892. He has three sisters: Fern, the wife of Porter Beekman; Mildred and Muriel.

Gustav Hinkle, the owner of the old Petry farm, in Reily township, and a man esteemed for his integrity and good citizenship, was born near Darrtown, Ohio, January 7, 1869, a son of Charles and Lena (Baldwin) Hinkle, natives of Germany. The mother of Mr. Hinkle came to the United States when a child, with her parents, the family settling near Trenton, Ohio, in which community she met and married Charles Hinkle, who had emigrated to America in company with his brother. Following their union, the parents located near Darrtown, and there the father passed away in 1877. His widow survived him until 1904, and at the time of her death was one of the highly esteemed women of her community. There were

311

seven children in the family: Fred, Jacob and Charles, who are deceased; Lena; Mary, who married George Austin; Katie, the wife of Jesse Boohigh; and Gustav. Gustav Hinkle received his education in the public school at Darrtown, and upon completing his studies returned to the assistance of the family on the home farm. He had always known the meaning of hard work, for he had been but eight years of age when the death of his father made it necessary that everyone in the family do something to aid in adding to the general income. For several years he worked on a farm by the month but after his marriage removed to Madison township, where for one year he was a renter. He next spent a short period at Darrtown, and then engaged in farming in Reily township, coming to his present place in 1917. He has a well-cultivated and highly-improved estate of 163 acres, and is regarded as one of the successful men of his township in material matters. He is a member of the German Reformed church and in politics is a Democrat. His citizenship has always been of a high order, and during the war period he was a supporter of the various drives promulgated to assist the country in winning the war. January 10, 1894, Mr. Hinkle married Anna, daughter of George Popp, of Reily township, who was also the father of George, John, Elizabeth and Andrew. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hinkle, namely: Park R., who is assisting his father in the cultivation of the old Petry place, and is one of the young and energetic agriculturists of Reily township. Flora, who is the wife of Clyde Wehr, of this township; and Jessie, the wife of Roscoe Anthony, also of this community, all farming people. The pleasant Hinkle family home is located on Oxford Rural Route No. 5.

Benjamin Hinkle. The present generation has little conception of the great obstacles which had to be overcome by the farmers of a half a century or more ago, or appreciation of the changes that have taken place in agricultural methods, and which have transformed farm life to such an extent that today it offers greater inducements than at any previous time in the world's history. Butler county has a most interesting history, made equally so by the pioneers and those who came after them, and a family that has been important from pioneer times and has played its part in the development of the county is that of Hinkle, which is honorably represented by the venerable Benjamin Hinkle of West Middletown. Mr. Hinkle was born in Butler county, Ohio, December 24,1827, and represents one of the pioneer families of the state, to which his paternal grandfather came during the closing years of the eighteenth century, before Ohio had been admitted to the Union. Joseph Hinkle, father of Benjamin, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1787, and five years later was brought to Ohio, where he passed the remainder of his life, dying July 3, 1881, the day President Garfield was shot. He was well versed in Indian lore and customs, having passed the early portion of his life in Ohio at a time when the Indians were more in evidence than the white settlers. The grandfather of Benjamin Hinkle was a half brother of the noted inventor, Robert Fulton. Four of his father's brothers were soldiers of the War of 1812, and his step-grandfather, Gabriel Hutchins, was in the Revolutionary war.

click to enlarge

312

Throughout the active years of his life Benjamin Hinkle has been identified with agricultural matters in Butler county and has contributed materially to the growth of the industry and the elevation of its standards. He has resided on his present fine homestead farm near Middletown, since 1859, and has purchased and sold a number of other farm properties in Butler county. Through his upright life and honorable dealing with his fellow-men he has won and holds the respect and confidence of the people, and few men are more worthy of the admiration and esteem of their townspeople. September 26, 1850, Mr. Hinkle married Nancy Selby, who was born March 18, 1830, in Butler county, a daughter of Middleton and Rachael Selby, and also a representative of one of the sterling old pioneer families of this part of the Miami valley. She died May 15, 1917, after having borne her husband eleven children and assisted him in partly rearing three others. Of their own children, three only survive: Mary; Bertha, the wife of Philip Telman of Dayton; and Benjamin, of Preble county. Mr. Hinkle and his daughter Mary occupy the old home at West Middletown, where his daughter, who had never married, renders him affectionate care and constant devotion in the evening of his life. She is one of the most highly esteemed women of her community, where her charities have been numerous and where her many excellencies of mind and heart are recognized and appreciated. Belonging to this same family, is Miss Laura Hinkle, daughter of Joseph and Mary Ann (Selby) Hinkle, both deceased. She has four brothers and three sisters: Gustavus and Charles, of Monroe, Ohio; Sam of Kansas; Jacob, of Columbus, Ohio; and Jane, Mrs. Bernard Kramer, of Monroe; and two other sisters, Mrs. Rachael Paullin and Mrs. Elizabeth Faries, are deceased. Miss Hinkle was born in Madison township, Butler county, where she was reared on the home farm and attended the public schools. She remained single, tenderly caring for her parents during their declining years, and now makes her home on the old farm homestead in Butler county, where she is widely known and esteemed and the center of a wide circle of devoted friends. Mrs. Elizabeth Hinkle, grandmother of Mary and Laura Hinkle, raised seventeen children of her own and three others.

Clarence A. Hoelle. Never before in the annals of American history has the farmer come into his own so thoroughly and emphatically as at the present time, for the tension of the great World war proved conclusively the inestimable value of his productive service, which post-war conditions still further enhance. Butler county, Ohio, is fortunate in claiming a fine contingent of enterprising and progressive young disciples of husbandry, and of these aggressive exponents of farm enterprise in these exigent times Clarence A. Hoelle is a prominent representative of Fairfield township, where he is conducting successful operation on the old Grey farm, of 112 acres. He removed to this place in the summer of 1919 and here is demonstrating his splendid capacity for productive farm enterprise. As a public-spirited citizen he takes loyal interest in community affairs, his political support being given to the Democratic party and both he and his wife being active communicants of

313

St. Mary's Catholic church at Hamilton. Mr. Hoelle was born in Ross township, Butler county, April 29, 1897, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Hogan) Hoelle, both likewise natives of this county, where they now maintain their residence on their farm, in Union township, -both being communicants of St. Mary's Catholic church at Hamilton, and the father being a Democrat in politics, his entire active career having been marked by close association with agricultural industry in his native county. Of the children the eldest is Timothy, of whom individual mention is made on other pages of this publication; Clarence A., of this sketch, was the next in order of birth; and John, Joseph, Francis, Lewis, Phillip and Marie are at the parental home. One child, Stephen, died when young. Clarence A. Hoelle gained his earlier educational discipline in the district schools and supplemented this by attending, for one year, the parochial school of St. Mary's church at Hamilton. Of his activities since his marriage due mention has already been made, and prior to that time he had been associated with his father in farm work. May 15, 1918, recorded the marriage of Mr. Hoelle to Miss Evelyn Kramer, a daughter of Anthony and Mary (Stephens) Kramer, who now reside in the city of Hamilton, where Mr. Kramer, a painter by trade, is in the employ of the Estate Stove Works. Of the Kramer children the eldest is Catherine, the wife of Joseph Hagan, of Hamilton; Dora, is the wife of Victor Surrel, of Dayton, this state; Clara is the wife of Charles Nock, of Dayton; Mrs. Evelyn Hoelle was the next in order of birth; and Viola remains at the parental home. Mr. and Mrs. Hoelle find the joys of their pleasant home greatly enhanced by the presence of their little daughter, Thelma Marie, who was born May 18, 1919.

Henry Hoelle. Ross township, Butler county, Ohio, is noted for its large number of farms of comparatively small acreage and in most instances these have become popularly known because of their excellent productivity. It is a well-known fact that many farmers much prefer to own small-sized farms, every acre of which is given the most critical attention, than to have a farm of hundreds of acres which is not so well cared for. It has been shown that a large percentage of the small acreage farms are more desirable from the standpoint of crop yield and financial returns from investment than the more extensive tracts, furthermore the farmer is relieved if the countless worries which invariably are associated with large land holdings. Among the Ross township agriculturists who has achieved most enviable results with his comparatively small acreage is Henry Hoelle. Although his holdings consist of but fifty-five acres he has developed each and everyone of these to the highest stage of productivity and those familiar with agricultural affairs in that section assert that he has one of the most desirable of the numerous small farms to be found in the township. Incidentally, it might be stated that Mr. Hoelle is thoroughly enthused over his acres and has the greatest faith in their future as producers. It is said of him that he is typical of the Ohio agriculturist who gets results, as he is untiring in his efforts at all times and realizes that hard and faithful work is the determining factor in bringing about success. He was born

314

in Ross township, November 30, 1870, one of six children of John and Frances (Schwartz) Hoelle, both of whom were born in Germany and came to America while single. They were married in Butler county. The father settled in Ross township and purchased fifty acres of land there on which he made many improvements. Like so many other prosperous agriculturists in this township who were born in Germany he was always an industrious worker and kept in mind the fact that industry and determination combined count much in bringing success. Also it was said of him that he was very much attached to his wife and family and was careful that the children were reared in a community where there were no contaminating influences. He passed away on the farm which he had worked so hard to develop and his legion of friends missed him as a loyal neighbor who had at heart at all times not only the best interests of the community at large, but also the welfare of each and every inhabitant of the township. He was a member of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic church of Hamilton, Ohio. Since his death the widow has made her home with the children, of whom the five others besides Henry are: William Jacob, who is a farmer in Fairfield township; Clara, who lives in Hamilton, Ohio, and is the widow of Benjamin Lagedrost; August, who is a farmer in St. Clair township; and Lena, who is the wife of Le Roy Weherand and lives in Hamilton. Henry Hoelle receved his education in the home schools and also Catholic schools. He resided with his parents up to the time of his marriage to Miss Anna Wiglow in July, 1899. This couple have five children, Mary, Leo, Vincent, George and Henry. For a short time after his marriage Henry Hoelle farmed near the old home place in Ross township and then purchased his present farm, which he has improved greatly from time to time. He is engaged in general farming, his activities to a large degree including dairying, the raising of hogs, horses and cattle. He is a staunch Democrat, but has never sought or held public office. He and his wife are members of St. Peter's Roman Catholic church at Hamilton.

Timothy Hoelle maintains due relative precedence as one of the vigorous farmers of the younger generation in his native county, where he conducts successful operations on a well improved farm of 125 acres, known as the Tischner place and eligibly situated in Fairfield township, Butler county. Here he gives his attention to diversified agriculture, besides which he raises a due complement of live stock, as a proper adjunct to his enterprise. He established his residence upon this farm in 1917, soon after his marriage, and here his activities demonstrate his business ability, as well as his thorough and comprehensive knowledge of the policies best adapted to farm industry in this section of the Buckeye state. Mr. Hoelle was born in Ross township, Butler county, November 28, 1894, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Hogan) Hoelle, the former a native of the city of Hamilton, Ohio, and the latter of Ross township, Butler county. The father has given his entire active life to farm enterprises and he and his wife now reside on their farm in Union township, Butler county, both being earnest communicants of St. Mary's Catholic church at Hamilton and his political allegiance being given to the

315

Democratic party. Of the eight children, Timothy, of this review, is the eldest; Clarence H. is a farmer in Fairfield township and the maiden name of his wife was Evelyn Kramer; and John, Joseph, Francis, Lewis, Phillip and Marie remain at the parental home. He whose name initiates this sketch was reared to the sturdy discipline of the farm and acquired his early education in the public schools and St. Mary's parochial school at Hamilton. He continued to be associated with his father in farm operations until the time of his marriage, and then removed to the farm on which he is now conducting independent and successful activities as an agriculturist and stock grower. He is a Democrat in political views and he and his wife are communicants of the Catholic church, as members of St. Mary's parish at Hamilton. On the 17th of October, 1917, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Hoelle to Miss Clara Renners, who was born in East Hamilton and who is a daughter of Joseph and Christina Renners, the former of whom is deceased and the latter of whom still resides at East Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Hoelle have a winsome little daughter, Rita, who was born April 10, 1919.

A. W. C. Hoffman, who is serving in his second term as clerk of Butler county, is well known in business circles at Hamilton, where he has filled positions of responsibility for many years. Mr. Hoffman was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, October 11, 1873. His parents were Christian and Louise (Phillips) Hoffman. Both were born in Germany, came young to the United States and were married in this country. Until the death of the father, in 1875, the family lived in Cincinnati, where he followed the tinner's trade, when the mother and two children, A. W. C. and Carrie, came to Hamilton and the mother died in this city. A. W. C. Hoffman obtained his education in the public schools of Hamilton, and a commercial college, after which he was a clerk in the dry goods store of T. V. Howell, then entered the First National bank in a clerical capacity and remained five years. Mr. Hoffman then became bookkeeper for the American Malting company and continued with that corporation for twenty-one years. In 1916 he was elected county clerk, on the Democratic ticket, assumed the duties of the office in 1917, and was shown approval of his administration of the office by re-election. In 1902 Mr. Hoffman married Miss Sadie, daughter of Valentine and Marie Becker, of Hamilton, in which city Mr. Becker followed the trade of a cabinet maker. Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman have the following children: Robert B., William E., Louise K., Ruth C., and Richard E., the two older sons being students in the high school. Mr. Hoffman and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. During the late war, he was active in promoting many patriotic movements, giving time, money and effort. He is identified with the order of Eagles, Knights of Pythias, Loyal Order of Moose, Monkey Mutual Aid and also the Modern Woodmen, and takes an active interest in the West Side Aid association. The family resides at No. 401 Miller avenue, Hamilton.

Conrad Hoffman, who is an experienced and successful farmer in Union township, Butler county, has been a resident of the United States for thirty-six years and during all that time has followed an

316

agricultural life. He was born in the province of Bavaria, Germany, February 14, 1859, son of Conrad and Margaret Hoffman, who were farming people in Bavaria and spent their lives there. Conrad Hoffman attended school, then worked on a farm until old enough for compulsory military service. He spent three years in the German Army and when relieved decided to come to the United States where he knew many of his countrymen were prospering. Mr. Hoffman crossed the Atlantic ocean in 1883, made his way to Ohio and stopped at first in the city of Cincinnati. He soon found farm work in Hamilton county and on proving competent he was made foreman on the big Moerline farm, which position he held for seven years. He then moved to a farm situated on the line between Hamilton and Butler counties, where he lived for seven years, in 1900, moving from there to the Mathers farm in Union township, Butler county. Mr. Hoffman is profitably operating ninety-five acres, carrying on both crop and stock raising, and has the reputation of being one of the best judges of stock in the county. In 1887 he married Anna, daughter of John and Mary (Schoenberger) Lindner, and they had one son, Henry, born April 5, 1888, who died December 25, 1913. Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman are members of Zion Lutheran church. Mr. Hoffman is an intelligent, well informed man, always taking a good citizen's interest in public affairs, and for many years has been a Republican voter.

Jacob Hoffman. The fertile agricultural community of Wayne township, Butler county, has a capable and highly respected representative in the person of Jacob Hoffman, who rents and farms 273 acres of highly cultivated land and has been a resident of Butler county all his life. He was born on a farm two and one-half miles south of Miamisburg, Ohio, June 26, 1861, a son of Adolph and Margaret (Agney) Hoffman, natives of Germany. The parents of Mr. Hoffman came to the United States as young people, single, and met and were married in Mercer county, Ohio. There Adolph Hoffman carried on operations on a farm which had been purchased him by his father, and, being a hard-working man, made a success of his labors. He died in 1917 in the faith of the Lutheran church, of which Mrs. Hoffman, who is likewise deceased, was also a member. He was a Democrat in politics and a man who had in full degree the respect and esteem of his neighbors. There were five children in the family, namely: Phoebe, who married Charles Krauth of Trenton, Ohio; Jacob, of this review; Frank, a resident of Miamisburg, an engineer by vocation; Margaret, who married Albert Fornshell, of Miamisburg; and Charlotte, who lives with her brother, Jacob. Jacob Hoffman had only a limited education as he was expected to furnish his father with much assistance in his boyhood and youth, and a great deal of hard work fell to his lot. Until he was eighteen years of age he remained under the parental roof, and then left home and began working out among the farmers of his locality. In 1892 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Truster, of Wayne township, a daughter of Lewis Truster, a sketch of whose career will be found on another page of this volume. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman: Clarence J., Elmer A., Paul, Clyde,

317

Marie, Mabel and Viola. After marriage, Mr. Hoffman located in Wayne township, Butler county, where he was employed by Sam and Abe Grafft, and then engaged in farming for one yea; in the vicinity of Collinsville. The next eleven years were spent in farming for H. H. Long, in Wayne township, and for six years thereafter he farmed for Sam Huston. In 1914 he settled on the J. J. Inman place in Wayne township, where he farms 273 acres of highly cultivated land, on which he carries on general farming and raises fine cattle and Chester White hogs. He is a Democrat in politics and he and Mrs. Hoffman are members of the Presbyterian church at Seven Mile.

318 their numerous friends. As a fraternalist, Mr. Hogan is an interested and active member of the local lodges of the Knights of Columbus, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Loyal Order of Moose. Mrs. Hogan is the possessor of a beautiful voice and sang in public when she was a mere girl. The children have inherited the talents of their mother.

George H. Holbrock. In a single room on the present site of the Hotel Howell, at Hamilton, there was founded February 1, 1888, a modest but ambitious dry goods business. The personnel of the firm whose foresight and good judgment led them to choose Hamilton as the scene of their activities, included two brothers, George H. and William G. Holbrock, who had previously had some small experience as merchants. From this unassuming beginning has been developed the great business enterprise known as Holbrock Brothers, now the leading dry goods establishment of Hamilton and one of the most prominent of the city's business institutions. George H. Holbrock, senior member of the firm, was born February 15, 1865, at Hamilton, a son of John H. and Mary Ann (Schumacher) Holbrock, early settlers of Hamilton. The father, a shoemaker by trade, arrived from the East at Cincinnati in 1847 and in 1854 came to Hamilton, where, two years later, he established himself in the boot and shoe business at No. 112 South Third street. He became one of Hamilton's highly respected citizens and honored business men, and continued to be identified with the same business until his retirement, and both he and Mrs. Holbrock are now deceased. They were the parents of five children, of whom three survive: George H., of this notice; Mary, the wife of Henry Segers, living at Hamilton; and John J., who carries on the shoe business founded by his father, at the same address. George H. Holbrock attended the parochial school of St. Stephen's Church, and prepared himself for a commercial career by a course at Nichols Business college, where he was a student three years. He entered upon his career in the same line as that which he now follows, dry goods, being apprenticed to William O. Shank for five years. Next, he became connected with the Alms-Doepke company, of Cincinnati, where he remained four years, with varying degrees of success. Returning to Hamilton, he embarked in business, February 1, 1888, with his brother, William G., under the firm style of Holbrock Brothers. As previously noted, the first store of this concern was located on the present site of the Hotel Howell, but after three years the store was moved to more desirable quarters in the old Riley block, where they continued to occupy one room. The chief capital of the concern at the time of its founding had been the ambition and inherent energy of its members, but as time passed they were able to accumulate further resources, and when an increase in business warranted were able to take over the room adjoining, which had been formerly occupied by Mrs. Sue Lorentz, a milliner. Business continued to be prosperous, more stock was added, and as a result more space was needed, and the brothers secured the corner room, which had been occupied by Ike Hirsch. Following this they took the rear room, now occupied by the Postal Telegraph company, and this proved to be sufficient

319

for the firm's needs until 1907. By that time the business wag cramped for room and needed larger quarters, accordingly they moved into the Mehrum building. It was not long thereafter that disaster occurred in the form of a serious conflagration which destroyed the building and its contents, but within a remarkably short time the structure had been rebuilt by the enterprising brothers, on a larger scale, and business was being done with a greatly augmented line of goods. Further loss was sustained by the company in the flood of 1913, but the business has gone forward steadily and is now accounted the leader in its line, with a complete and up-to-date stock in every detail of every department. The business at Hamilton employs in the neighborhood of fifty-five people, in addition to which it maintains a branch store at Middletown, known as the Middletown Dry Goods company. Mr. Holbrock has been the guiding spirit in bringing his firm to the forefront in the fierce competition which has agitated Hamilton's trade circles, has had the courage to grasp opportunities and the foresight to recognize these opportunities as they have come, and has been able to make the most of them with a clear, cool head. However, he suffered an irreparable loss in the death of his brother, William G. Holbrock, which occurred July 7, 1914, the younger man having been a power of inspiration, and an energetic, clear-headed, astute man of business, whose judgment was keen and whose foresight was rare in its accuracy. Mr. Holbrock is a valued and active member of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce and the Retail Merchants' association. He has contributed liberally to all war causes, and has interested himself in many ways in the welfare of the community and its people. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Knights of Columbus. June 20, 1902, Mr. Holbrock married Miss Clara C. Beck, a daughter of Charles Beck, formerly a member of the Butler county board of commissioners, and to this union there have been born two children: Gregory, born in 1907, now attending St. Stephen's parochial school; and Dorothy, born in 1909, attending Notre Dame Academy. The family resides at No. 801 High street and belongs to St. Stephen's Catholic church. At his death, William G. Holbrock left three children: Arnold, Loraine and Adrian. Arnold, who succeeded to his father's interests in the business, was in service in France with the 319th Infantry, and was singularly honored. He was one out of twenty men chosen from his entire regiment who were accorded the privilege of attending a university in France, which school was the conception of the leaders of the American Expeditionary Forces as an educational institution for its officers and enlisted men. This school had a faculty consisting of some of the foremost educators in the world, and under these capable instructors Arnold Holbrock took a course in business administration. The members of this school were granted week-end passes to Dijon, the second city in France in progressiveness, with the opportunity of visiting other large cities, and young Holbrock made the most of this opportunity by studying retail business methods in France with the idea of obtaining a broader view. He is one of the energetic and

320

capable young business men of Hamilton. Adrian Holbrock is a graduate of Hamilton high school and Loraine is a graduate of Notre Dame college.

John J. Holbrock. In the boot and shoe establishment now conducted by John J. Holbrock, at Hamilton, Ohio, there is found an establishment that has handed down its policy and traditions from father to son and which has been located at Hamilton for a period of sixty-three years. During this time the methods under which it has been conducted and the principles which have guided its operation have been of a character to gain and hold friends and patrons and the same high quality of workmanship and service still maintain that did when the honored founder of this business first threw open the doors of his modest establishment and solicited the custom of the little town in which he was a new arrival. John J. Holbrock was born November 25, 1860, at Hamilton, a son of John H. and Mary Ann (Schumacher) Holbrock, early settlers of Butler county, where they were destined to become highly respected and well-to-do people. John H. Holbrock had arrived at Cincinnati in 1847, and seven years later pushed on to the little town of Hamilton, where he thought he saw better opportunities for a man of small capital, and where he felt that he could grow up with the community and develop himself with its development. He was in the village two years before he established himself in business as the proprietor of a small boot and shoe store, this being located at No. 112 South Third street. While additions have been made and more space taken in, the location has always remained the same, and the establishment has come to be looked upon as a landmark. Mr. Holbrock the elder, was content to follow this line of business throughout his life, and, aside from his home, few other interests ever attracted him. He did not care for public life, although a man of keen intelligence and thoroughly informed as to the leading questions of the day. When he passed away there was lost to Hamilton a good citizen who had been honest and honorable in all his dealings and who had contributed to its commercial upbuilding a substantial and reliable business house. He and his wife were the parents of five children, three of whom survive, as follows: George H., one of Hamilton's leading dry goods merchants, a sketch of whose career will be found on another page of this work; Mary, who is the wife of Henry Segers, a cigarmaker of Hamilton; and John J., of this notice. John J. Holbrock received ordinary educational advantages in his youth, as a student at St. Stephen's parochial school, and when it came to a choice of vocations he allied himself to the business which his father had always followed. Under the elder man's skilled and kindly preceptorship he learned the shoemaker's trade in all its details and particulars, and was later rewarded for his industry and energy by being taken into partnership. When his father in his declining years retired from active affairs, John J. Holbrock purchased the business from him, thus succeeding to the ownership, which he has never relinquished. The little establishment founded so many years ago has developed into an enterprise of pretentious proportions, taking in two store fronts, at 110 and 112 South Third street, and carrying a full line of up-to-

321

date footwear, tastefully arranged, honestly presented and properly priced. Mr. Holbrock is a business man of some ability, and has been assisted in making a success of his efforts by his unfailing courtesy and obligingness. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and several church societies. He married Rosa Hepting, daughter of Matthew and Rosa Hepting, early settlers of Middletown, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Holbrock reside in their pleasant and attractive home at No. 137 North Front street, which was built by Mr. Holbrock.

William L. Hollenbaugh, one of the very successful general farmers of Madison township, has long been regarded as an excellent representative of the best class of agriculturists of Butler county, but was for some years equally prominent as an educator, and is a very well informed man. He was born at Farmersville, Ohio, November 22, 1864, a son of William and Caroline (Sheets) Hollenbaugh. William Hollenbaugh was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., a son of Michael Hollenbaugh, also natives of Schuylkill county, Pa., who died at Pine Grove, Pa., married Elizabeth Cook, who was brought to Farmersville at the age of eighteen years, and there died. Michael Hollenbaugh and his wife had the following children: Daniel, William, John, Emerel, Kate, Sophia and Lydia. Of the above named children, William Hollenbaugh, the father of William L. Hollenbaugh received but few educational advantages, his attendance at school being limited to thirteen days at an English speaking school, and three months at one taught in German, but he always sought knowledge from books, and accumulated what was then considered a very large library. He remained at home until his marriage, learning the shoemaking trade and he also learned to make pumps, and manufactured quite a number by hand. Late in life, he acquired a small farm on Twin creek, where he died in 1900, aged eighty-four years, his wife passing away in 1893, aged sixty-nine years. They both belonged to the Lutheran church. The children born to them were as follows: Daniel, a self-made man, is now a retired farmer of Farmersville, Ohio; Priscilla, who died in 1884, was Mrs. Levi Stoneroad; Joseph, who is a farmer of Whitley county, Ind.; Susan, who is Mrs. John Brandenburg, lives near West Elkton, Ohio; Ella, who is Mrs. Charles Stanton, lives at Mercersburg, Ohio; William L., whose name heads this review; J. F., who is a farmer of Preble county, Ohio, and two children who died in infancy. Caroline (Sheets) Hollenbaugh, the mother of William L. Hollenbaugh, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, a daughter of Jacob Sheets, who was born at Lebanon, Pa., but carne with his wife, also a native of Lebanon, to Montgomery county, Ohio, at an early day, and located at Farmersville, where he operated a farm and kept a blacksmith shop. Both are now deceased, he passing away in 1870. After the death of his first wife, he was married (second) to a Miss Long. The children of Jacob Sheets were as follows: Henry, Solomon, William, John, Samuel, David, Amos, Caroline, Susan, Maria, Lizzie, Catherine, Lydia, and four who died in childhood. William L. Hollenbaugh attended the schools of his native township, he being in the Shafer district, and then he spent sixty weeks

322

in the Ashland school, and one term at the Lebanon school. Entering the educational field, Mr. Hollenbaugh taught for three years in the schools of Jackson township; two years in the Shafer district, one year at the Wegley school; four years at the Hetzler school all in Montgomery county. He then taught one year in the Judy district in Butler county; was in the Stover district for one year, and he then rented land near Farmersville, and conducted it for three years, when he bought sixty-eight and one-half acres of land in Madison township, known as the John Sinkey place. Since taking possession of this farm, Mr. Hollenbaugh has made many improvements, spending upward of $3,000 upon them, and has one of the best farms in his township. Here he raises general mixed crops and hogs, and has been more than usually successful, for he understands his work and likes his calling. October 14, 1894, Mr. Hollenbaugh was united in marriage with Emma Zimmerman, born near Germantown, Ohio, a daughter of Benjamin Zimmerman. He married a Miss Barks, and they located on a farm near Germantown, and lived on that place for thirty-four years, when Mrs. Zimmerman died, and Mr. Zimmerman retired, moving to Germantown in 1889, since which time he has not been actively engaged in any calling. Mr. and Mrs. Hollenbaugh became the parents of children as follows: Mabel, who is living at home; and Faye, who is in her second year at the Middletown High school. In his political sentiments, Mr. Hollenbaugh is a Democrat, and he served for two terms as a trustee of Madison township. Ever since locating here, he has taken an active and intelligent interest in township affairs, and is rightly considered one of the leading men of his community. Both he and Mrs. Hollenbaugh are consistent and valued members of the United Brethren church of Pleasant Ridge. Having always lived up to what he believed was right, Mr. Hollenbaugh has gained the confidence and respect of his associates, and his success in farming has proved that his methods are excellent ones, so that his advice is often sought upon many subjects, and generally taken, for it is sound and reliable.

Hollmeyer Brothers. For more than a half a century there has existed at Oxford, Ohio, a business which has been conducted under a policy of fair and honorable dealing, and which, working upon such a principle, has secured and held the confidence and patronage of the buying public. This business, known as Hollmeyer Brothers, dealers in all kinds of fresh and salt meats, fish, oysters, game and poultry, is now owned and conducted by Henry F. J. and Charles W. Hollmeyer, brothers. This business was started by their father, the late Henry F. Hollmeyer, who was one of Oxford's early business men and a man universally esteemed and respected. Henry F. Hollmeyer was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1839, and was a twenty-year-old youth when he emigrated alone to the United States and located in Cincinnati. In his native country he had been employed on a large stock farm, but on his arrival here, having no means wherewith to back him, had to accept such employment as he could get, at first being a common laborer. Later he came to Oxford, where his knowledge of stock secured him employment at the old

323

Cone house, where he was in charge of the stage horses, and then embarked in the meat business. He married Sophia Weikman, who was born in Germany. About this time Mr. Hollmeyer's career was interrupted by the outbreak of the Civil war and he enlisted in the 108th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he fought three years, receiving wounds in the arm and leg at the battle of Chickamauga. With a splendid record for faithfulness and gallantry, he returned to Oxford and resumed the meat business, with which he was connected the remainder of his life. He was the possessor of an excellent business and the owner of a valuable farm property. When he died, in 1900, his community lost one of its able business men and upright and public-spirited citizens. He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and in politics was a staunch Democrat. He was first a member of the Lutheran church at Hamilton and later of the Presbyterian church at Oxford, of which latter his widow, who resides on the old place at the age of eighty-three years, is still a faithful member. They had the following children: Annie, who married and is deceased; Lewis, in the meat business at Muncie, Ind., who married Amanda Carpenter; Alice, the wife of Lewis Shirts, of Muncie; Minnie, deceased; Julia, who died aged three years; Gus, who is in the meat business at Muncie with his brother, Lewis; William, deceased; Dora, who died at the age of nineteen years; Henry F. J., who is single; Charles W., who was married in 1903 to Minnie Halter, of Oxford, and has four children, Gertrude, Charles W., jr., Harry and Edwin; and Sophia, deceased, who married Rolla Price. All of the children received the advantages of the public schools of Oxford, and Henry F. J. and Charles W. Hollmeyer remained at home and learned the meat business with their father, whose associates they eventually became. At the time of his retirement, they took over the business, which has since been known as Hollmeyer Brothers, and which enjoys an excellent patronage, not only among the people of Oxford, but all over the surrounding countryside. The brothers are also dealers in cattle and are the owners of a valuable farm property. They stand high in public esteem and have numerous friends, and both are Democrats and members of the Presbyterian church at Oxford.

Rev. S. K. Holtsinger. Where eminent abilities and unblemished integrity, combined with unimpeachable virtue, derivable from the daily practice of religion and piety, contribute to adorn the character of an individual, then it is most proper to be prominently set forth as an example to those who would make themselves useful to the rest of mankind. In the life of the late Rev. S. K. Holtsinger there was presented a lesson of zeal, religious fervor and unselfish service that should be beneficial to the youths of any community. This reverend gentleman, who for over thirty years ministered to the spiritual wants of the people of Sharonville and nearby communities in Butler county, was born at Greeneville, Greene county, Tenn., December 22, 1839, a son of Rev. John P. and Nackey (Roberts) Holtsinger, the former a native of Tennessee and the latter of Maryland. The father, who was a minister of the Presbyterian

324

church, was chaplain of Company F, 1st Tennessee Cavalry, and served with that command in the Union army throughout the period of the Civil war. A monument to his memory now stands at Greeneville. S. K. Holtsinger received his early education in the public schools of Greeneville, following which he attended Ewing and Jefferson college, of Tennessee, and successfully passed his theological examinations and received the degree of Doctor of Divinity. About that time his career was interrupted by the Civil war, in which he and his brother Richard enlisted with their father. When the war broke out the Holtsingers were living in Greeneville, Tenn. They were possessed of very strong Union sentiments and were determined to become Union soldiers. This had to be done secretly as they were surrounded by Confederate soldiers. The Holtsingers in company with about a dozen others left home by night, traveling nights and hiding during the day. For two weeks they lived underground, their food being brought to them at night a colored man. After many hardships they reached Ohio and at Camp Dennison Rev. J. P. Holtsinger entered the Union army as chaplain and his son, Rev. S. K. Holtsinger, as a private. A younger brother, seventeen years of age, ran away from home and joined the Union army as wagon master, and after the battle of Bulls Gap was reported missing and was never heard from again. After the war, our subject came to Hamilton, Ohio, where, while awaiting a call, he worked for six months at the Niles Tool works. His first charge was the old Presbyterian church at Sharonville, and there he labored for some thirty years, becoming greatly beloved by his parishioners and also organizing and building churches at West Chester, Bethany and Gano. In 1895 failing health caused him to resign his charge and go to California, where he remained three years, during which time he built a church of the Presbyterian faith at Del Monte. Returning to Butler county in 1898, he took up his residence at West Chester, and here his death occurred October 10, 1907. Reverend Holtsinger was married in 1865 to Margaret O., daughter of Decatur and Narcissa Housel, and to this union there were born two children: John Paul, and Nackey E., the wife of E. W. Scripps. Mrs. Holtsinger, who now has eight great-grandchildren, survives her husband and is a resident of West Chester, where she has numerous acquaintances and friends, being a most intelligent woman and one charming to meet. She was born at Franklin, Ohio, the birthplace of her parents who died when she was a small child. Mr. and Mrs. Scripps have had six children: John Paul, who died at the age of twenty-six years, who married a Miss McRea and left a son, - John Paul; James G., head of the Scripps Newspaper Syndicate of America, who married Josephine Steadman and has four children, - Edward Willis, Josephine Louise, James G. and Ellen Browning; Edward Willis, who died at the age of eight years; Dolla Blair; Nackey Elizabeth, who married Thomas M. Meanley and has two children, - Thomas M. and Gerald Blair; and Robert P., who married Margaret Culbertson and has one child, - Robert Payne. Reverend Holtsinger was cast in a finer, gentler mold than many men, and yet he had also those

325

manly qualities that should be found in every man, be he statesman or businessman or clergyman. His sense of the fit and beautiful was keen, and his ideas of honor, integrity and duty were exceptionally strong. Mentally, he had both depth and breadth, and he was never afraid of new ideas, was receptive to any new truth, but had the faith that assured him the foundations of God stand unshaken amid man's changing' opinions and speculations. As a minister of the Gospel he always emphasized the spiritual rather than the ecclesiastical or dogmatic side of the church and the personal life, and was uniformly beloved as preacher, teacher, pastor and man. To his sacred and honored calling he devoted all of himself, and most splendidly did he fulfill his vows.

John A. Holzberger. Prominent on the list of names of those who have contributed to the civic betterment of Hamilton by faithful, conscientious and constructive public service, is found that of John A. Holzberger. Mr. Holzberger has worked his way up from the ranks, and his career is one that is eminently worthy of emulation, as it indicates the high awards in position attainable through properly directing one's activities both as to personal affairs and in the larger life of the community in general. Ex-Mayor Holzberger was born October 8, 1871, at Hamilton, a son of John and Catherine (Eiler) Holzberger, who were early settlers of Butler county. The father, who received an ordinary education, learned the trade of blacksmith and followed it until his death at the age of thirty-eight years, but the mother still survives. There were nine children in the family, as follows: Anna, the wife of Charles Brannon, of Hamilton, with four children; Sallie, the wife of Daniel Wheaton, of Cincinnati; Mary, the wife of John Held of Hamilton, with four children; Elizabeth, deceased, who married William Seiffert and had one child, also deceased; Minnie, who married Louis Saurber of Hamilton, and had one child, now deceased; Fred, of Akron, who married Mary Stephens, and has two children; William and Peter, who are deceased; and subject. John A. Holzberger received his education in the country schools, and owing to the early death of his father it was necessary that he begin early to assist in his own support. Accordingly for several years he was variously engaged at whatever honest employment presented itself, but eventually he realized that such methods were not enabling him to make any definite progress, and in 1891 he applied himself to learning the plumbing business, under John P. Henn. Having mastered his trade, he worked thereat until April, 1898, at which time he received recognition by the appointment to the position of superintendent of streets and sewers of Hamilton. This appointment nearly cost him his life, for it was while he was working in his official capacity that in the flood of 1898 he was trapped and imprisoned in the sewer pumping station, where he was only rescued after forty-eight hours without food or drink. At the expiration of his term of service, Mr. Holzberger purchased a cafe from E. H. Heckerman, on Front and High streets, and conducted it for twelve and one-half years. During the time he was thus engaged as a business man, he was elected councilman-at-

326

large, a position in which he again gave splendid and satisfactory service. After two terms in this capacity, Mr. Holzberger became service director by appointment of ex-Mayor Straub, and was acting in this position when the great flood of 1913 called forth his best services in behalf of the stricken city. In 1915 he disposed of his cafe by sale, and in that same year was elected mayor of Hamilton on the Democratic ticket. His two years of administration were characterized by good service and numerous civic improvements were made during his regime. When he retired from the mayoralty he again went into the plumbing business, this time in partnership with his former preceptor, John P. Henn, their establishment being located on Market street, near Second. Mr. Holzberger married Miss Anna Zoller, daughter of Michael and Barbara Zoller, early settlers of Hamilton, and to this union there have been born four children: Earl and John, who are deceased; Walter, aged twenty years, a graduate of Hamilton high school and now in his second year at Cornell college, Ithaca, N. Y., where he is studying chemistry; and Glenn, now eighteen years of age and in the third year of high school at Hamilton. Mr. Holzberger is a member of the Elks, the Knights of Pythias, Eagles, Moose, Odd Fellows and Smoking Casino, and is universally popular.

Harry J. Honerlaw. In many ways Union township is a prosperous agricultural section of Butler county, one reason being that intelligent men of practical farm experience are here bending every effort to add to production. Such substantial farmers and right-thinking men as Harry J. Honerlaw are men who pay close attention to their business and the results that follow are not only profitable to themselves but also to the country at large. Harry J. Honerlaw was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, January 21, 1888, son of Henry and Mary Honerlaw, and grandson of Joseph Honerlaw, who was the founder of the family in Ohio. Mr. Honerlaw attended the public schools in Hamilton county, after which he assisted his father on the home farm until his own marriage, then, for a time operated a farm of 100 acres, moving then to the Baker farm in Union township, Butler county. One year later he came to the Howard farm, which contains 122 acres, and this he has operated very profitably for five years, giving attention to both crop and stock raising. In 1913, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and Sophia Wintrong, and they have two children, Robert and Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Honerlaw belong to the Catholic church. In politics he is a Democrat. Herman Honerlaw, who is a representative citizen and very substantial agriculturist of Butler county, belongs to an old Ohio family that was established in Hamilton county by his grandfather, Joseph Honerlaw, who came to Cincinnati from Germany, when twenty-two years old. Herman Honerlaw was born at Reading, Hamilton county, January 24, 1883, son of Henry and Mary Honerlaw, who had five more children, namely: Joseph, Kate, Harry, Adelaide and Allie. Both parents were born in Hamilton county and during his entire active life the father was a farmer there or in Butler county. He now lives retired at Deer Park. Herman Honerlaw

327

obtained his education in the public schools of Hamilton county, after which until 1911, he was associated with his father m farming. He then started out for himself on a small scale, for one year engaging in the business of hauling hay. In 1912 he moved on the McCauley farm of 204 acres which he had under rental until 1917, when he bought the property. Of this large estate he has 120 acres under a fine state of cultivation, using the remainder of the land for pasturage, as he is taking a great deal of interest m raising high grade stock, and feeds fifty head of hogs yearly. He has placed substantial improvements on his property and conducts all his industries according to modern methods. Mr. Honerlaw is considered one of the most enterprising young farmers of this section. April 26, 1911, he married Mary, daughter of Henry and Caroline Wolbkenberg, and they have four children, namely: Albion, Elmer, William and Mildred. Mr. Honerlaw and his family are members of the Roman Catholic church. He is an independent voter and has never accepted any public office except membership on the school board, but as a private citizen his influence is always lent to the support of law and order.

Walter Horning, a farmer, of Fairfield township, Butler county, Ohio, was born in Bavaria, November 5, 1850, a son of Louis and Caroline Weise, also of Bavaria, who came to America in 1850, located in Hanover township, Butler county, Ohio. For four years the father worked in the saw mill of George Tobias, and then farmed for the same person for a number of years. He died in 1888 at the age of fifty-nine years; the wife dying in 1909, aged eighty years. They were members of the St. John's Lutheran church at Hamilton. There were nine children in the family: Walter, subject of this sketch; Michael, a gardener at Lindenwald, Ohio, married Annie Henning; Catharine, Mrs. Philip Weiland, of Hamilton; George, farmer in Clermont county, Ohio; Henry, farmer in Kansas; Annie, Mrs. John Schwab, of Reily township, Butler county; Paulina, unmarried, in Fairfield township; Jacob, farmer, of Fairfield township; Emma, Mrs. Charles Funstine, of Fairfield township. Walter Horning, subject of this sketch, attended the public schools and in addition was a student in the Lebanon Normal school for two years. After leaving school, he remained at home up to his marriage in 1879 to Mary Rahmes, daughter of John and Barbara (Fichter) Rahmes. For seven years following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Horning lived in Port Union, Ohio, and then went to LaBette county, Kans., where they remained for some time when they concluded to return to Fairfield township, and after a twenty-two years' tenancy, purchased the old homestead - the John Rahmes place - which continues to be their home. Mr. Horning has always been a farmer, and has achieved considerable success in this line. At present he is conducting a general farming and mixed stock business. To Mr. and Mrs. Horning eight children have been born: Annie, Mrs. Eugene Rau, lives in Cincinnati, has two children, Norbert and Stanley Walter; Lenora, wife of Stephen Jackson, a farmer of Fairfield township, they have one son, Paul Stephen; John, conducts a confectionery in Cincinnati; Carl, a

328

farmer of Fairfield township, married Clara Cortes and have a son, Carl Herbert; Abelena, Mrs. Albert Rhomer, of Fairfield township; Emma, at home; Paul Herbert and Otto George (twins), - Otto married Freda Schmitt, one child, Lillian. Mr. Horning has always been a Democrat, and is a member of the Emanuel Lutheran church of Hamilton.

Albert Hossfeld. A business which, established in a small way, has been developed to large proportions under the favoring conditions offered by Hamilton for advancement, as well as through the good judgment, sterling ability and sound business sense of its owners, is the C. Hossfeld & Son company, a concern now nearly fifty-five years old. The present directing head of this large business is Albert Hossfeld, who was born at Hamilton, a son of Charles and Ida (Muller) Hossfeld. His parents were born in Germany, where they were reared and educated, and were married there September 13, 1864, the father at that time being twenty-six years of age and the mother twenty-two. The day following that of their marriage they started for the United States, and first located at Indianapolis, where they remained one year. Coming then to Hamilton, they established a combined grocery and liquor business, but later the grocery was abandoned, and the father continued in charge of the liquor business until his death, March 7, 1906. Charles Hossfeld was content to devote himself to his business and his home and never mixed in public affairs. He and his wife were the parents of seven daughters and one son, as follows: Minnie, who has never married; Albert; Anna, the wife of Otto Metzner of Cincinnati, with one child; Clara, who died at the age of twenty-nine years; Gusta; Eda, a resident of Hamilton; Lina, also of this city; and Lotta, the wife of Fred Mueller, the well known Hamilton architect, with two children. After completing his studies in the Hamilton graded schools, Albert Hossfeld entered the business with his father, for whom he worked until 1894, at that time being accepted as a partner in the business. In 1904 the firm was incorporated as the C. Hossfeld & Son Co., and since the death of the father, in 1906, the same name has been retained, it being well known in trade circles as that of a strictly reliable and trustworthy concern. In 1907, under the direction of Albert Hossfeld, the large building on Second street, between Court and Ludlow streets, of which the Hamilton hotel is a part, was erected, and is still owned by the corporation. Mr. Hossfeld is one of Hamilton's aggressive, progressive and alert business men, who has impressed his abilities upon his associates in a way that has made them place the utmost confidence in his judgment, foresight and acumen. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and United Commercial Travelers. He is unmarried and lives with his mother at her home on South D street.

Jacob Hossfeld. Among the citizens of Reily township none is more deserving of representation in this volume than Jacob Hossfeld, who has for years been connected with the hotel and agricultural interests of this section of Butler county and who has through well-directed efforts, gained a handsome competence that

329

numbers him among the substantial men of this township. Keen discrimination, unflagging industry and resolute purpose are numbered among his salient characteristics and thus he has won that prosperity which is the merited reward of honest effort. Mr. Hossfeld was born at Lindenwald, Butler county, Ohio, December 9, 1860, a son of Fred and Mary (Bishop) Hossfeld, the former born in Germany and the latter in Butler county, Ohio. Fred Hossfeld came to the United States with his stepfather and the remainder of the family later joined them and settled in New York, near Niagara Falls. Later they came to Ohio and settled at Hamilton and it was here that Fred Hossfeld met and married Mary Bishop, whose father, John Bishop, had come from Germany and took up a farm below Hamilton. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hossfeld started housekeeping at Hamilton, where the father followed the trade of millwright, but later moved to Reily and embarked in the hotel business, but eventually retired from active affairs. Mr. Hossfeld died at Reily, following which his widow removed to Hamilton and there passed away. They were honored and highly esteemed people of the various communities in which they resided, and were the parents of three children: Jacob, of this review; and Charles and Fred R., both deceased. Jacob Hossfeld was educated in the public schools of Reily and when he left school was for a time employed as a farmhand. Subsequently he engaged in the hotel business there, which he continued for five years after his marriage, and about 1905 removed to his present farm, the old Hossfeld place in Reily township, which he later inherited from his father's estate. This property, consisting of 300 acres, he has brought to a high state of cultivation and through his good management and industry has brought about results that stamp him as one of the progressive and skilled agriculturists of his county. A public-spirited and progressive citizen, he has done much to advance the interests of his township and county and justly merits the esteem in which he is uniformly held by his fellowmen. He and the members of his family belong to the Presbyterian church. In 1898 Mr. Hossfeld was united in marriage with Mrs. May (Fields) Lemon, widow of William Lemon, of Trenton, who had two children by her first marriage: Hazel, who married Karl Schwab, resides on her parents' farm and is an accomplished reader and elocutionist; and Elizabeth, who married Paul King, a farmer near Oxford and has four children, Jack, Mary Ellen, William and Patricia Lee. Mr. and Mrs. Hossfeld have had one child: Marie, who resides at home and is a young lady of much musical talent. Mrs. Hossfeld is a daughter of Pletus and Harriet (Hurd) Fields, the former of whom was born at Cleveland, Ohio, and as a youth went to Allegany, N. Y., with his parents, his marriage to Miss Hurd taking place at Portage, Allegany county, N. Y. He was a minister and traveling evangelist and spent the greater part of his ministry in Ohio. During the Civil war he served as chaplain, with the rank of captain, in the 39th Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry. He and his wife were the parents of five children: Mary and George, who are deceased; Floyd; Frank; and May, who

330

became Mrs. Hossfeld. Of these children, George Fields was also a soldier and served in the same regiment as did his father. Pletus Fields also was a farmer, but was best known as a revivalist and debater. He was originally a Methodist, but later joined the Christian church, and in 1866 went to Boone county, Ill., where he built two churches, one at Capron and the other at Bonus. He was of noted French descent, having descended from the De La Feld family of the tenth century. His great-grandfather, Pardon Field, was a Revolutionary soldier; his record can be found on page 642 of the soldiers at Washington, this making Ms. Paul King, Mrs. Karl Schwab and Miss Marie Hossfeld, Daughters of American Revolution. His wife, who was of English descent, belonged to the distinguished Hurd family, while her mother was a Burlingame and the latter on her maternal side was a Hale, descended from Sir Mathew Hale, one time chief justice of England. Aaron Hale, an American descendant, was a captain of American troops during the Revolutionary war.

Oliver H. House. One of the important divisions of the plant of the American Rolling Mill, at Middletown, is that known as the masonry department, the work of which is exacting and calls for directing ability of more than ordinary calibre. The supervision of the work of this department is at present in safe hands, being in charge of Oliver H. House, who throughout a long and active career has been identified with work similar to that which attaches to his present position. He has been identified with his present concern seven years, has formed enduring relations both with those in charge of the business and with his associates at the plant. Mr. House was born in Wheeling, W. Va., March 26, 1865, a son of John William and Margaret (Rodus) (Horton) House, the former a native of Lancaster, Pa., and the latter of Minersville, that state, and both now deceased. John W. House was a brick manufacturer by vocation, and was well known to the trade of the Keystone state as a man of integrity and sound business sagacity. There were four children in the family: Oliver H.; George L.; Nora, the wife of Ala Montgomery; and Emma, the wife of William Baughman. Mr. House's brother and sisters are all residents of Braddock, Pa. The education of Oliver H. House was secured in the public schools of his native state, following which he became associated with his father in the manufacture of brick at Braddock, Pa. Later he entered the same line of business on his own account, and in this connection came into associations that brought him in contact with the rolling mill business. In 1912 he was called to the American Rolling Mill at Middletown, to take the position of superintendent of the masonry department, a post which he has held to the present time, and in which he has discharged his duties in an entirely efficient and satisfactory manner. Mr. House was married April 5, 1888, to Gertrude Murphy, daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Hambelton) Murphy, of Morgantown, W. Va., and to this union there have been born three children: Maude, who is the wife of Thomas Needham, of Middletown; Harry B., contractor and builder, of Whitaker, Pa., and Oliver H., jr., who is attending school at Middletown. Mrs.

331

House's parents are deceased. She and her husband are members of the Methodist church, and Mrs. House has been active in its work. Not long after their arrival at Middletown, Mr. House purchased an attractive home on Linden avenue, where the well-kept lawn and other features give evidence of his sense of the artistic and his pride in the appearance o~ his property. Mr. House is a Republican, but not a politician, and is fraternally affiliated with the local lodges of the Masons the Woodmen of the World and the Order of Elks. The family was well represented in the military during the recent great war as in addition to the two nephews of Mr. House, George and Ralph House, of Braddock, Pa., there were three cousins of Mrs. House in the service, Charles, Joseph and Floyd Hunt, of Ashland, Ky.

Joseph C. Hubner, retired construction engineer, was born in Flushing, L. I., son of John and Clara Hubner. He received his education in the public schools of Flushing and at the Wright Polytechnic institute, of Brooklyn, N. Y., specializing in mechanical and hydraulic engineering. From 1890 to 1896, he engaged his services to the Westinghouse company, in the installation of electric power plants throughout the country. Early in his career, a very important task was committed to his supervision - the installation of a power plant at Niagara Falls and the success of the undertaking is in itself sufficient testimonial as to the thorough mastery of his profession by Mr. Hubner. Subsequent to this, he built the plant for the Coke-Otto company, at Hamilton, Ohio, and was also construction engineer of the Zenith Furnace company, of Duluth, Minn., vice-president and general manager of the Lake Superior Dredging company. He did a large amount of Government river and harbor work, among the most important of which was: Constructed the channel through Galveston to Texas City; Hanna Coal Dock and Y. & L. coal dock at Duluth; channel work at Duluth; Superior entry at Duluth; channel work at Houghton; channel work at Sault Ste Marie; construction work at Sandusky, Ohio; tunnel and channel at Erie, Pa.; work on Lake St. Clair Channel; Georgia Bay Channel work. In 1889, Mr. Hubner was married to Louise M. Reiss, who through the years has proved a real companion and a true helpmate. In 1896 Mr. G. F. Reiss and J. C. Hubner purchased a country residence in Fairfield township, and Mr. Hubner makes his home there. On this estate there has recently been completed the construction of a Dutch Colonial residence, a beautiful innovation in this style of architecture. It is complete in every particular and is undoubtedly one of the most handsome and attractive homes in Butler county. Mr. Hubner has had an active life, replete with responsibility and hard work, but by his determination and intense energy, he achieved success to which he was justly entitled, and through the years of his retirement he will retain the esteem and good-will of his almost numberless friends. A genial, whole-souled man, noted for his loyalty to his former employees, many of whom he has helped to a competency, his chief interest now is in their welfare, and information of their success and achievements is to him a pleasure and delight.

332

John J. Huffman, retired mill man and landowner in Fairfield township, Butler county, Ohio, was born January 23, 1853, in Fairfield township, son of Tobias and Mary Huffman, who were born and raised in Virginia, and on first coming to Ohio, located in Pi qua after which they moved near Mt. Pleasant, Ohio. After a residence of four years in the last-named place, they came to Fairfield township and bought seventy acres of land to which were soon added eighteen more acres, the land costing $20 an acre. The only improvements on the place were a log cabin and stable. An exceedingly small portion was cleared, and that in a very unsatisfactory manner. It was not a very encouraging outlook, but Mr. Huffman started in a small way, put in long hours, worked extremely hard and ultimately achieved the most gratifying success. He was a man widely-known and greatly respected, and an ardent Republican. Both Mr. and Mrs. Huffman were members of the Christian church, and both died on the place, he at the age of eighty-four years, and she at eighty. They had ten children, and of the family, our subject is the only one now living. One child died at the age of seven; Martha, Mrs. Thomas Huffman; Amanda, Mrs. Jacob Dittmore; Robert, farmer on Pleasant Run, never married; Solomon, farmer, married Mollie Strife; Sarah, twin of Solomon, never married; Paul, farmer, married Amy Dittmore; Israel, farmer, never married; Aaron, farmer, married Caroline Schmutsfel; John, subject of this sketch. John Huffman received his education at the Rieser school, which was the public school for the district in which the Huffman family lived. He remained at home until he had attained the age of thirty-five years, when he married Anna Springer, of Fairfield township, daughter of Peter Springer. Peter Springer and wife were natives of Germany, and on coming to this country, located in Fairfield township, and engaged in farming. They were members of the Mennonite church and very excellent people. They had five children: Joseph, deceased, a farmer, never married; Anna, Mrs. Huffman, wife of our subject; Mary, Mrs. George Rahmes, of Pleasant run, Ohio; Barbara, unmarried, lives on Pleasant run; Chris., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume, lives on the home place. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Huffman moved into the handsome place which continues to be their home, a tract of eighteen acres located in Fairfield township. It was purchased and improved by Mr. Huffman solely for a home, and nothing was withheld that would add to the appearance and beauty of the place or the comfort and convenience of its occupants. To this couple three children have been born: Abram, died in infancy; Joseph, farmer, at home; Clara, Mrs. Peter Trigiser, of Venice, Ohio, has a son, Herbert. Probably few men in his vicinity are better known than is Mr. Huffman and every acquaintance is his warm friend. His long residence, his genial disposition, his successful career have impressed the community in such way that he will long be respected and remembered. Mr. Huffman has had a very active and busy life. For thirty-eight years he followed threshing and for an additional twenty-two years conducted a sawmill, neither of which callings is in the slightest way disconnected

333

from very hard work. In addition to his home place Mr. Huffman owns two other very valuable tracts in Fairfield township of twenty-two and ninety-four acres, respectively. He leases or rents most of his real estate holdings. Like so many true Americans, Mr. Huffman responded very heartily to the calls made for the war activities fund. Politically, he is a Republican.

Elijah and Samuel K. Hughes. The eastern part of Butler county was settled largely by people from Maryland. Among the earliest to come was Elijah Hughes. Mr. Hughes located at what is now Hughes station. He was a blacksmith by trade, and at once built a shop which he conducted for many years. He acquired a large tract of land, and reared a large family. The children were Eliza, who married Simeon Matson; Daniel, who acquired a large tract of valuable land, and was well known in Butler county as a successful farmer and stock raiser; Micajah, who assisted in organizing and was the first president of The First National bank of Hamilton, which position he held until his death; Christopher, who was very prominent in politics, and who served in the Ohio legislature; Philip, who succeeded his brother Micajah as president of The First National bank of Hamilton; Joshua, a prominent farmer and banker; and Rachel who married James Kain. Butler county has produced no family of more prominence than the Hughes family.

Daniel, the father of the subjects of this sketch, married Ann B. Kain, a daughter of Samuel Kain, a wagon maker, located at Bethany, Ohio. After his marriage Daniel Hughes settled in the southern part of Lemon township, where by industry and business ability he acquired 500 acres of the most valuable farming land in the Miami valley. Mr. Hughes engaged in raising horses and hogs upon an extensive scale. In politics, he was a Democrat, but always a true American and supporter of the Union. His success as a stockman, and his activity in public affairs, brought him a wide recognition and popularity. He died July 14, 1884, at the age of seventy-nine years. His wife, who from childhood, was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, died in 1877, aged seventy-two years. Daniel Hughes and his wife became the parents of the following children: Mary Jane, who married Job Mulford; Elijah, one of the subjects of this sketch; Sarah, who died at the age of two years, and Samuel K., also one of the subjects of this sketch.

Elijah Hughes was born on the homestead of his father in Lemon township, September 9, 1835, and has always resided there. Samuel K. Hughes was also born on the family homestead, November 1, 1839. Elijah and Samuel attended the school held in the little log school house of the neighborhood, which is still standing and in use, but now as a dwelling. Some very distinguished men claim this little school as their Alma Mater. Samuel K. Hughes married Hattie Belle Boudinet of Butler county, Ohio. Mrs. Hughes was an artist of merit, using both oils and water colors, painting on china and canvas. Her husband was also interested in art, and in addition to the productions of his wife, owns a number of very valuable paintings, the work of some of the most noted artists in the country. Mrs. Hughes died several years ago, and Mr. Hughes married her

334

sister, Mary E. Boudinet. These ladies were the daughters of Joseph and Louisa Boudinet, natives of France and Germany respectively, who came to the United States when young, and were married in Butler county, Ohio. Mr. Boudinet died in 1901, his widow surviving him until June 17, 1902.

In March, 1877, these brothers, Elijah and Samuel K., took charge of the home farm, and have ever since operated their 550-acre farm in partnership. After taking charge of the farm they made many improvements, remodeling their residence and making it thoroughly modern. Their farm is located between Hamilton and Middletown on the Dixie highway. In addition to this home farm of 550 acres, these brothers have acquired several hundred more acres of valuable farm land. These brothers have been extensive dealers in live stock, and in addition to their stock and farming interests, own stock in various banks in Butler and other counties, and in various corporations and manufacturing industries, and have been largely interested in coal mining in Kentucky. Samuel K. Hughes has been president of The Uniontown Coal and Mining company. Both are staunch Democrats. Elijah is a man who has devoted much time and thought to public questions, reading extensively upon various subjects, and he is well posted on current events.

Samuel K. Hughes has always devoted much time and attention to public matters in spite of the fact that his own private affairs and interests were sufficient to absorb all the time and attention of any ordinary man. His public service is always rendered without hope of reward. At one time, in order to assist and elevate the agricultural interests of Butler county, he accepted the position of president of the Butler County Agricultural Board, in which position he served for several years, devoting much time and attention to the affairs of the Butler County Fair, and thereby assisted in making the Butler County Fair one of the best known and popular of county fairs.

For many years Mr. Samuel K. Hughes has been a frequent contributor to the newspapers, especially of Cincinnati, Hamilton, Middletown and Dayton, and thereby has become one of the best known men in the Miami valley. In these writings his character is fully and clearly portrayed, and the most distinguishing characteristic is his intense and sympathetic interest in all matters which affect the well-being of his fellows. This is manifest in every page of his writings. No matter whether the subject be great or small, he considers and discusses it with the same earnestness and intensity.

That which concerns only his own neighborhood engages his earnest attention and consideration, as well as that which concerns the entire nation. Whether it is the repair of a township road in his own vicinity, or the negotiation of a Peace Treaty between nations, he is always earnest and vigorous in his style and advocacy. We use the word "advocacy" advisably, for the reason that his communications are always constructive. He is ever seeking to build up or produce something for the betterment of the public. His communications are always messages of encouragement and friendly and kindly advice. It is by reason of this characteristic that he has

335

long been known locally, as well as in the public press, as the "Sage of LeSourdsville." In his public communications he has always been as free and earnest and vigorous in support of men as he has been of measures, when he believed them right.

Although a partisan Democrat always, yet he can show numerous letters from men of the opposition party in the highest political and administrative positions, acknowledging words of encouragement and commendation for Mr. Hughes. There are many such letters from President McKinley, Roosevelt and Taft, and from Senators Foraker, Alison and others. Mr. Hughes has always been intensely American, and he believes that our government and institutions are not only the best for us, but that they would be the best for all of our neighbors, and by reason of his advocacy of the doctrine that we should seek by all honorable means to extend the sphere of our government and institutions, he has long been called the "Great Expansionist." On one occasion he made an earnest and vigorous effort to have the Democratic State convention of Ohio adopt a resolution in favor of retaining the Philippines, but it was not done. Later the Republican State convention adopted this very resolution, and was successful before the people, and Mr. Hughes was assured by persons high in Republican councils that it was the belief of the Republican manager that the Democrats could have won that year upon such a resolution.

A very marked characteristic of Mr. Hughes' writing is that he is always in favor of extending aid where it will be beneficial to society. His suggestions and purposes in this connection have frequently attracted great attention and consideration. As an instance, some years ago he addressed a communication to the Legislature of Ohio, advocating a bill for the creation of a State Commission for the examination and care of inebriates. This communication attracted wide attention, and Mr. Hughes received words of encouragement from many competent authorities. Dr. Dan Millikin in a lengthy letter to Mr. Hughes endorsed the plan, and discussed the cause and proper treatment of drunkenness with great force and clearness. Mr. Hughes has always been an advocate of treating public questions as matters of business, and not of politics. For instance, he once suggested to congress that a commission of thirty practical men, business men, be selected to prepare a tariff law. Mr. Hughes has never cared for political preferment. On at least two occasions he was assured that he could have the nomination of his party for congress, but he preferred to remain in the ranks. So far as we know he has never held but one office, road superintendent. The roads in his neighborhood needed attention, and he accepted the job in spite of the fact that he was a very busy man with his own affairs.

What a world of good could be accomplished if citizens generally took such an interest in public matters as Mr. Hughes has. It is not only current events and conditions that engage his attention, but he frequently takes a look into the future, and at times he has written that which appeared almost prophetic. More than five years before the outbreak of the World war Mr. Hughes in a public

336

communication described the conditions in Europe, calling particular attention to the attitude and aims and ambitions of Germany, and declared that unless something was done to curb or circumvent Germany that a world war would result. His proposed remedy was an alliance for the preservation and maintenance of peace. For many years Mr. Hughes has been in the habit of giving careful thought to every question of public interest, whether local or general, and when he has felt that he could say a word in support of a good cause, he has spoken through the medium of the press.

Although the dominant note in his character is peace, friendship and good-will, yet when occasion requires, he is a vigorous and persistent fighter, and this is especially true when he considers that the rights of his neighbors or neighborhood are interfered with. As an instance, many persons will remember the fight over changing of the postoffice at LeSourdsville many years ago. For some reason the First Assistant Postmaster General issued an order changing the name of this postoffice. This change was contrary to the wishes of a great majority of the patrons of the office, and Mr. Hughes was appealed to by his neighbors to lead the fight for the restoration of the old name. This he did, and with such vigor and persistency that in spite of much opposition in the postoffice department and elsewhere, he finally succeeded in getting the old name restored. This fight attracted a great deal of attention in the postoffice department and elsewhere. The chief inspector of the postoffice department in a letter to Mr. Hughes advising him that after a great deal of work and manipulation, the postmaster general had signed an order rescinding the order of the First assistant changing the name of this postoffice, said "LeSourdsville has become to be a pretty well known place by the people of the department, because the case has attracted a good deal of attention."

We have felt impelled to write thus at length of Mr. Hughes, because we believe that his disinterested interest in and advocacy of the welfare of his fellow-men deserves recognition in a permanent form. We can say of Mr. Samuel K. Hughes what another great advocate of human rights said of himself: "The world is his country, to do good, his religion."

Frank M. Hughes. Long and prominent connection with the business, financial and agricultural interests of Butler county has made Frank M. Hughes one of the best known men of his locality, where his splendid abilities have been extended in the direction of furthering general progress and development. Mr. Hughes, who is president of the Hamilton Home Telephone company, was born on his present farm at Hughes Station, Liberty township, May 22, 1849, a son of Joshua and Mary Ann (Legg) Hughes, and a member of an old and honored family of Butler county. His paternal grandfather was Elijah Hughes, of Baltimore, Md., who, with his wife and five children drove through to this county in the early '20s in a covered wagon. His children were Daniel, Micajah, Christopher, Joshua, Eliza and Rachel, and after a journey of six weeks, he arrived in Butler county, where two more sons, Joshua and Philip, were born. Peter Gossage, a neighbor of the Hughes

337

family in Maryland, had come to Butler county some time previous and had purchased 160 acres of land, on which he had started to make improvements. However, at that time the Indians were numerous in this locality, and their many depredations and continued menace alarmed and discouraged Mr. Gossage, who, after deciding to return to the more civilized East, sold his property to Elijah Hughes, a man made of sterner and more courageous stuff. There was a log cabin on the place, as well as a small stable, and Mr. Hughes and his family settled down to make a permanent home, presenting a bold front to the red men .and working industriously in their labors of development. While his sons worked the farm, Elijah Hughes plied his trade of blacksmith, in a little shop and forge which he had erected, and so skilled and industrious was he that he was soon controlling the business of the entire countryside. It was a rule of his never to charge for any work that he did for the early preachers, and these traveling divines would come from 100 miles around to get their horses shod at the shop of this sturdy pioneer smith. He put an addition on the cabin and made other improvements, and the farm continued to be his home until his death in 1852, his wife having died some time previous. All of his sons secured farms and spent their lives in Butler county. Joshua Hughes, the father of Frank M., was born on the Hughes homestead in 1822, not long after the arrival of his parents in Butler county, and his education was confined to the limited curriculum of the pioneer log schoolhouse. However, he had native intelligence, which enabled him to secure a good education as to essential things, and his inherent business ability allowed him to rise to a position of prominence and substantiality in his community. He grew to manhood on the old farm, which he purchased and on which he made improvements, and added to it until he possessed 500 acres. In addition to general farming, he was a big cattle and hog feeder, and also had some splendid horses. A public-spirited man, he was a leader in the good roads movement and assisted in other enterprises in a way that won him the confidence and friendship of people all over the county. His good business ability was shown in the organization of the First National bank at Hamilton, and this same ability was evidenced in the handling of its affairs as president, a capacity in which he served but a short time when feeling the responsibilities of the office too great he resigned. His de.ath occurred October 30, 1900, at the age of seventy-eight years. His wife passed away August 22, 1905, when seventy-seven years of age. Mr. Hughes was a staunch Democrat, but never aspired to public office. There were two sons in the family: Frank M. and Charles Legg. Charles. L. Hughes was born on the old home place, and for many years prior to his death was a farmer and extensive cattle dealer, his property being located west of Monroe. He was a staunch Democrat and a man widely known and well liked in Butler county. He married Florence Deneen, of this county, and had a daughter, Lola, now deceased, and after his death his widow married John Seward, of Hamilton. Frank M. Hughes was educated in the public schools of Liberty township and was reared

338

on the old homestead, where he has always made his home. In 1870 he located one mile north of where he now resides and continued to make that his home until March, 1901, when he changed to his present abode. Under his good management the acreage of the old homestead has increased materially, and now contains 700 acres, all valuable Liberty township land. Mr. Hughes is a skilled and well-informed farmer, working along modern lines and according to scientific methods, and is also a raiser of Southdown sheep, Poland China hogs and a good grade of cattle. His financial ability has led him into important connections, and at this time he is a director of the First National bank of Hamilton and of the Monroe National bank, of which latter he was one of the organizers. He also assisted in the organization of the Hamilton Home Telephone company, one of Butler county's most valuable public utilities, and has been president of the company since its inception. Also, he was one of the organizers of the Jersey Dell Milk company, at Hughes Station, organized in April, 1917, this being a mutual company, with the following officers: Frank M. Hughes, president; Charles Tyron, vice-president; Hon. Rob Billingslea, secretary; Austin Smith, treasurer; and William Lucius, manager. The company is capitalized at $25,000, and is located at Hughes Station, which station was established in 1871 and named in honor of the Hughes family. The greater part of the company's product is shipped to Cincinnati, although some is handled by Dayton dealers. In all these various capacities, Mr. Hughes has shown the possession of a mind of particular clearness as to the complexities of modern business and finance, and his associates depend upon his judgment and acuteness of foresight in all matters of importance. Mr. Hughes was a member of the infirmary directing board for three years. He takes a keen and intelligent interest in politics and votes the Democratic ticket. His social connections include membership in the Butler County Country club and the Business Men's club of Hamilton. Mr. Hughes' first marriage occurred October 25, 1870, when he was united with Christina A. Swearingen, who was born near Bethany, O., and died June 3, 1876, leaving one daughter, Mary; Wilbur, born June 31, 1873, and died September 17, 1873. Mr. Hughes was again married September 25, 1879, to Hannah J. Shaffer, born in Butler county, a daughter of Peter Shaffer, and they had two children, Harry E., born May 6, 1883, and Hubert, born November 29, 1888, who died August 3, 1889. Mary Hughes was born January 28, 1875, and was married April 6, 1898, to Ralph K. Beeler, a druggist of Hamilton. They have two children: Hughes, born July 28, 1899; and Francis S., born May 21, 1908. Harry E. Hughes was educated at Middletown, Ohio, and in a business college. He is one of the active and energetic young business men of Butler county, being connected with the grain trade with elevators at Hughes Station and Kyle. He is a member of the Cincinnati Board of Trade, and of the Country and Business Men's clubs and the Elks, at Hamilton. He married Florence Freid, and they are the parents of one son, Robert.

Harry A. Hughes, one of the reliable pharmacists of Hamilton,

339

Ohio, owns the drug store located at Main and D streets, and is very well regarded in this city because of his sterling characteristics and excellent business judgment. He was born at Georgetown, Ohio, July 14, 1889, a son of G. V. and Martha (Kratzer) Hughes, natives of Adams county and Union Plains, Ohio, respectively. G. V. Hughes attended the common schools of his native country and then went to Lebanon university, and after completing his course there, he began teaching school, remaining in the educational field for twelve years, leaving it to engage in a lumber business at Mt. Orab, Ohio, which he still continues in that city. He had but one child by his first marriage, Harry A. Hughes, and after the death of his first wife, he was married (second) to Rebecca Miller and they had three children. A very strong Democrat, G. V. Hughes has taken an active part in politics, not only serving as mayor and councilman of Mt. Orab, but also as county commissioner, which office he is still holding. His fraternal associations are maintained as a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. A thoroughly representative man he deserves the prominence to which he has attained. Harry A. Hughes was reared at Mt. Orab, where he attended the grammar and high schools, and then entering the Ohio Northern university, he took the regular pharmaceutical course, in which he was graduated in 1911, and he was associated with various drug concerns as a pharmacist until March, 1914, when he engaged in business at the corner of Main and D streets, Hamilton, Ohio, where he and his wife have comfortable living apartments over the store. This drug store is one of the finest in the city, and is beautifully decorated, and equipped with a large, modern soda fountain. A full line of drugs and fancy goods is handled, and a large business is carried on in them and with the soda fountain, patrons recognizing the quality of the goods dispensed, and the excellence of the service. August 23, 1911, Mr. Hughes was united in marriage with Miss Rose Fritz, a daughter of John and Emma Fritz, of Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Hughes votes the Democratic ticket, but is not active in politics. He belongs to Hamilton Lodge, B. P. O. E. Very popular in his community, Mr. Hughes has won the confidence and support of his patrons and the respect of his competitors by methods which are honorable, and industry and alertness which are commendable.

C. T. Hull, M. D. A comparative newcomer to Hamilton, Ohio, Dr. C. T. Hull has made an enviable reputation for himself by demonstrating conclusively that he is a thoroughly capable physician and one who is competent to treat the most difficult diseases human flesh is heir to, is today recognized as one of the foremost physicians of Hamilton. Like so many of the successful physicians of Butler county, Ohio, he was the son of a farmer and the admirable training received while living amid the wholesome atmosphere of the country was a strong factor in developing the traits of character for which he is noted. He was born in College Hill, Hamilton county, Ohio, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Hull, and attended the public schools of Mt. Healthy and was graduated from the high school in 1889. From boyhood he had

340

manifested a liking for medicine and as he grew older this inclination became more pronounced. Always apt as a student and with the one ambition to make the most of his opportunities for a thorough education he took up the study of medicine and received his degree in 1894. After leaving college he took up the practice of medicine at Shandon, Ohio, and remained at that place for about twenty years, developing a practice which was both desirable and lucrative. Despite his congenial surroundings and the genuine interest that he manifested in the affairs of this community Doctor Hull was attracted by the possibilities of even larger practice and other considerations which Hamilton, Ohio, held out for him and accordingly he moved to Hamilton. The latter town has been growing rapidly in importance both commercially and industrially, and is known as the home of some of the most skillful physicians and surgeons of the state of Ohio, and Doctor Hull is numbered among these. He has membership in the Butler County Medical District Union and the State Medical society. Aside from his professional affairs Doctor Hull has found time to take active interest in fraternal matters, having membership in the Elks, Knights of Pythias, I. O. O. F. and Masons. In politics he is a Democrat.

Fred P. Humbach. Among the many special industries which within comparatively recent years have combined to practically revolutionize modern modes and customs, one which has been developed to a high state of efficiency is the laundry business. The modern laundry is one of the institutions in our national life which has done away with much of the drudgery of housework, and as such is recognized to have its place in the established order of things. At Hamilton, Ohio, such an institution is the large laundry business conducted by Fred P. Humbach, with his business associates, this business having been established in 1904. Mr. Humbach is a product of Hamilton, where he was born June 25, 1859, and received his education in the public schools. As a young man he became connected with the county clerk's office, at the court house, and subsequently was elected president of the board of election, a position which he held for several years. In 1904 he embarked in his present business, he now being secretary and treasurer of this concern, a $20,000 corporation, with George Sohngen as president. Mr. Humbach ranks high among Hamilton business men, is identified with various civic bodies, and holds membership in the B. P. O. E., the K. P. and the M. W. A. In politics he is a Democrat. After his marriage to Miss Magdelina Bosch, he purchased his present home at No. 233 Chestnut street, which he remodeled and upon which he has since made numerous improvements, making it one of the attractive homes of Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Humbach are the parents of three children: J. Edward, Robert F. and Walter E. J. Edward Humbach was born in 1887, at Hamilton, and received his education in the graded and high schools. For a time he was identified with the Niles Tool Works, but in 1905 became associated with Albert Hossfeld, a wholesale liquor dealer of Hamilton, in the capacity of manager, a position which he still retains. Mr. Humbach is a Democrat. He is one of the prominent

341

Elks of this community and was the first member chosen for the first board of governors selected to look after the Elks new home, having been a member of the building committee, and interests. Later he was made secretary and treasurer of that board and held the office two years. Mr. Humbach was married August 6, 1912, to Miss Catherine Gruber, of Hamilton, and following his marriage purchased a home at 609 Millville avenue, but subsequently sold this and now resides on a farm near Trenton, Ohio. Robert F. Humbach was born in 1890, at Hamilton, and was educated in the graded and high schools. After completing his studies he joined his father in the laundry business and was connected therewith until April, 1918, when he enlisted in the U. S. Engineers, and after four months of intensive training was sent to France. Walter E. Humbach, the youngest son, was born in 1892, at Hamilton, and after graduating from the high school at Hamilton took a course in pharmacy at Cincinnati. He is now associated with the drug business of Charles Krone, at Second and Walnut streets, Hamilton.

Arthur Baird Hunter. The supervision of some 1310 acres of Miami valley land in itself would indicate the possession of marked ability in an agricultural way, and this is the responsibility assumed by Arthur Baird Hunter, of the West Middletown community, who has for many years been engaged in agricultural pursuits in Butler county. Mr. Hunter was born November 2, 1868, near Trenton, O., a son of Calvin Symmes and Anna (Baird) Hunter. His parents, old-time residents and agricultural people, owned a farm in the neighborhood of Trenton, and the early education of the youth was secured in the country schools, following which he took a course in the normal school at Lebanon. At this time he is the owner of 1100 acres of land in Butler county, the operations on which he oversees, but his home is made on the old Graft homestead, which consists of 210 acres, and on which he personally carries on agricultural activities. Mr. Hunter has always been a farmer, and during his long and uniformly successful career has experimented extensively with the various branches of agricultural work. He is now principally a grain grower, but makes a specialty of raising Hereford cattle and Duroc hogs, and has met with much success in both directions. Naturally a progressive man, Mr. Hunter has not hesitated to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the use of modern, approved methods and highly improved farm machinery, and as a result, with hard work and good management, he has met with prosperity in the development of his farms, which are models for improvements and productiveness. It is not alone as a successful agriculturist that Mr. Hunter is known, however, but as an advanced and independent thinker and promoter of new movements. He has always been a great friend of the cause of education, having served as a member of the school board for twenty years, during which time he is accredited with having promulgated a number of the movements which have made for advancement and general elevation of the schools. More recently he became the father of the thought of "social centering" of the

342

schools and won distinction throughout the state for his efforts in behalf of this movement. Mr. Hunter has various interests aside from his farm, and is a director of the Farmers National bank at Seven Mile. His political belief makes him a Democrat. Mr. Hunter was married December 26, 1894, to Miss Mary Graft, daughter of the late Samuel Graft, of Seven Mlle. They have their residence on the old Graft homestead.

Calvin Symmes Hunter, father of Arthur Baird, Joseph Symmes, Clarence Noble and Harry Drayer Hunter, was of Scotch-Irish origin, the family being represented in the United States by Thomas Hunter, who came to southern Ohio when Cincinnati was in her infancy and there married Jane Noble, the daughter of William Noble, one of the leading merchants of that city. Of this union there was but one issue, William Noble Hunter, father of Calvin S. Hunter. William Noble Hunter was a thrifty farmer, a man who not only advocated a high standard of Christian living, but by his daily walk and conversation demonstrated the same. His aspirations were holy and afford a striking example of what may be accomplished when governed by noble impulses. The Bible was his daily textbook, and in the summer of 1827 at a camp-meeting held at Springdale, Hamilton county, Ohio, he and his wife made an open confession of their faith and erected a family altar and in 1828 identified themselves with the Presbyterian church of Hamilton, Ohio, and in 1837 Mr. Hunter was elected Elder of this congregation. Mr. Hunter was one of the founders and builders of the Pleasant run Presbyterian church, and served as Elder in that, and the Hamilton church for forty years or until his death, August 16, 1877. Mr. Hunter died on the fiftieth anniversary and at the very hour of their marriage ceremony. On August 16, 1827, William N. Hunter was united in marriage to Esther Woodruff Symmes, who followed him in death November 2, 1892. William N. Hunter's life was remarkable for his unswerving devotion to principle and his firm faith in Providence. It was said of him, by one of his intimate friends, "I do not doubt but that the Lord could have made a better man than William N. Hunter, but he did not do it." Esther Woodruff Symmes Hunter, mother of Calvin S. Hunter, was a daughter of Judge Celadon Symmes who was associate judge of Butler county from 1806 to 1820, and prior to that time assistant to Israel Ludlow in the survey of the Symmes purchase in the Miami country. He was nephew of Judge John Cleves Symmes, the proprietor. Mrs. Hunter's mother was Phebe Randolph, cousin of John Randolph of Roanoke, Va. Mrs. Hunter's grandfather, Timothy Symmes of Sussex county, N. J., served in the Revolutionary war as quartermaster. Calvin S. Hunter was born on the old homestead in Fairfield township January 22, 1838. Being reared on his father's farm he early learned the lessons of industry and thrift, which formed the basis of his successful career, and marked him distinctively as one of the notable men of his day. He was educated at Farmers college, College Hill, and Hanover college, Indiana. Mr. Hunter took up teaching as a profession for some ten year, acquiring an enviable reputation as an educator, shaping

343

the minds of the youth, giving them proper conceptions of the dignity, duty and responsibility of life. Naturally and instinctively Mr. Hunter took to the soil where he could get close to nature and nature's God. Consequently he gave up teaching and turned to the farm. He was active in the Agricultural society of Butler county for more than fifty years. He was associated with Prof. F. G. Carey along scientific and experimental work in both agriculture and horticulture, and from time to time made exhaustive reports of same, thus becoming noted as a fluent writer, often adding color by his originality. His contributions were read with interest and pleasure and accepted as authority. He was sought as a lecturer far and near. He invented farming implements that proved satisfactory to the farmers and financial return to himself along horticulture lines. He tested and improved thirty varieties of strawberries, one hundred kinds of apples, and 120 kinds of grapes. Mr. Hunter was considered among men as an up-to-date Ohio man. He was a musician, being able to play five or six different instruments, and was a teacher in voice culture, with marked success. His religious convictions were marked, and profound, and like his father was especially concerned in the Sabbath school work. Mr. Hunter was Elder in the Jacksonboro Presbyterian church. He was united in marriage November 5, 1868, to Anna Baird, whose parents came to Ohio in an early day from New Jersey. Mr. Hunter died March 16, 1912, and Mrs. Hunter died in November, 1915.

James Patrick Hussey. In the career of James Patrick Hussey is found an excellent example of safe and conservative enterprise, backed by sound judgment and constant industry. For years a railroad man, Mr. Hussey has always been close to the soil, and at this time in addition to being the owner of a valuable farming property, owns and operates three threshing outfits and clover hullers. He was born at Hamilton, Ohio, in 1856, a son of Patrick and Mary (Delaney) Hussey, the father being a native of Ireland and a stone mason by trade. He was a young man when he emigrated to the United States and first settled at Cincinnati, in which city he followed his trade for some years. There he was first married, his wife dying and leaving him one son, Michael, who served in the Union army during the Civil war in the army of General Sherman. After leaving Cincinnati, Mr. Hussey came to Hamilton, where he passed the rest of his life, and where he married Mary Delaney, their union resulting in the birth of four children: Agnes, the wife of James Carroll, of Decatur, Ill.; Mary, deceased, who was a resident of New York; James Patrick; and William, a resident of Indianapolis. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Hussey came to Hanover township, Butler county, and rounded out her life on a farm near the one on which her son is now living. Educated in the public schools of Hanover township, James P. Hussey was early called upon to make his own way in the world, and, being attracted to railroading, took up that work, which he followed as a fireman and in construction camps for many years. When he left railroading, he purchased a farm of ninty-six acres, located in Hanover

344

township, on which he has since carried on successful operations combining industry, knowledge and good management with the result that he has been able to accomplish much for his own benefit and at the same time has aided in the development of his community. A feature of Mr. Hussey's work has been his operations as a thresher, a business which he has followed during a period approximating a half century, operating three threshing outfits and clover hullers. He stands high in public confidence and the esteem of his associates, and as a citizen has shown himself public-spirited at all times, and especially so during the period of the great world war, when he and the members of his family took a helpful part in all war activities. Mr. Hussey was married in 1879 to Mary, daughter of Michael and Bridget Bergen, of College Corner, who were also the parents of three sons: William, Thomas and Joseph, who are all deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Hussey there have been born five children: William P., who is engaged in agricultural operations in Hanover township; Martha A., who resides with her parents; Charles H., a Butler county farmer with a property in Hanover township, who married Elsie Bisdorf and has two children, James W. and Donald Charles Elvin, who joined his country's colors during the great war and was stationed in California; and Lawrence, who went across seas to France as a member of the 3d Division Signal Corps, and was later with the army of occupation in Germany. The members of the Hussey family are faithful attendants of St. Mary's Catholic church at Oxford, to which they have belonged for many years.

C. N. Huston, M. D. For more than thirty-two years, Dr. C. N. Huston has been engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery at Hamilton, and in this time has been a worthy representative of his noble calling, a citizen of the highest mind and acts, the firm upholder of public charities which have appealed to his sense of justice and utility, and the dispenser of private benevolences to the full extent of his means and strength. Doctor Huston was born at Lawrenceburg, Ind., in 1856, and was a small child when his parents removed with him to Columbus, Ohio, where he secured his education in the public schools. His career was commenced as a schoolteacher, and for three years he was engaged in instructing the youthful mind in a class at Rensselaer, Ind., but in the meantime applied himself to the study of his chosen profession of medicine. Entering the Ohio Medical college, at Cincinnati, he was graduated with the class of 1887, receiving the degree of M. D., and immediately came to Hamilton where he embarked in practice, in which he has since been engaged. His professional attainments, his unfailing rectitude and ability, and his personal promptness and courtesy have served to attract and hold to him a large clientele, and by his fellow-practitioners he is recognized as one of the foremost of Hamilton's men of medicine. He is a member of the Butler County Medical society, the Ohio State Medical society and the American Medical association, and has been .active in local affairs of the city, having served as school examiner for two terms and as a member of the board of education

345

for several years. Politically he is a Democrat, and his religious faith is that of the Baptist church. Fraternally, Doctor Huston is a thirty-second degree Mason. His first wife bore the maiden name of Ella Davis, and after her death he was united with the present Mrs. Huston, who was formerly Miss May Blossom. Doctor and Mrs. Huston have no children.

Robert M. L. Huston was born at College Corner, Ohio, June 22, 1844, a son of Dr. Robert C. and Jane (Montgomery) Huston, natives of Pennsylvania who came to Ohio in 1829. Robert C. Huston was a son of John Huston, of Pennsylvania, who located first at Rushville, Ind., in 1829, and later married Sarah Morrison of Greene county, Pa. James Montgomery came to Ohio from Pennsylvania on horseback and secured wild land in Oxford township, Butler county, then returned for his family, which he brought to their new home. Eventually he cleared the land and developed a farm, and there passed the remainder of his life, dying in 1844, while his widow survived until 1882. Robert C. Huston was given better educational advantages than the majority of youths of his day and locality, for he attended Miami college and also spent two years in a medical college at Cincinnati. He began the practice of medicine at Liberty, Ind., where he remained for two years, and from 1844 to 1852 followed his profession at College Corner, then removing to Oxford, which continued to be his home and the scene of his professional success until 1887. He was a physician of the old school, who traveled extensively throughout the country on his missions of mercy and who became known and beloved all over the countryside. He belonged to the Miami Medical college and the Union Medical society, and at his death, in August, 1887, the Presbyterian church lost one of its faithful workers. Joining the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in 1848 he continued as a member thereof for nearly forty years and was widely known in fraternal circles. He and his wife, who died in 1871, were the parents of four children: Robert M. L., of this notice; James W., a retired farmer of Hamilton, Ohio; Sarah E., the widow of James N. Bradley; and John C., who was postmaster at College Corner for four years and a druggist there for twenty years, and also manager of a pharmacy at Hamilton for eight years. John C. Huston married Ella Loder. Robert M. L. Huston attended the home schools, following which he enrolled as a student at Miami university, Oxford, and was graduated therefrom in 1867. He began his career as a teacher in the township schools at Oxford, and during the next ten years became a skilled educator and one who had the friendship and esteem of parents and pupils alike, becoming well known in the country districts of Oxford and Reily townships. Next, for two years, he was in the postoffice at College Corner with his brother, John C., and then took up farming, which he followed in Milford township for a period of twenty-three years, when in 1909 he disposed of his property in Milford and moved to Oxford where at the present time he is the owner of considerable real estate. Mr. Huston was married in 1875 to Adeline Addis, ward of William and Susan Addis, of Oxford, Ohio, and to this union there were

346

born two children: Frederick W., a graduate of Miami university, class of 1899, who for some years was a school teacher and superintendent at various points in the country and graded schools and of Columbus High school; he studied law and was a graduate of a law school and was engaged in the practice of his profession at Columbus until his death which occurred in 1911; and Susan Edith, a graduate of Miami university, class of 1907, who for twelve years taught high school at Union City, Ashland, Sandusky and Camden, Ohio, and is now the wife of Rev. S. I. Gear, minister of the Presbyterian church at Camden, Ohio. In the period of the Civil war, Mr. R. M. L. Huston served two years in the Ohio National Guards, and saw active service as a soldier of the Union from May 2 to September 28, 1864. Since 1868 he has maintained membership in Millikin Post No. 228, G. A. R., at Oxford, in which he has held all the offices and has been commander for two years. Mr. Huston has been a member of the Presbyterian church at Oxford all his life and has been Elder thereof for many years. As a citizen he has always taken a leading part in supporting movements for the general welfare, and in business circles he is a man who has always been looked up to because of his strict integrity, fair and honorable dealing and personal probity of character and action.

Hutchisson Brothers, leading grocers in Oxford, stand particularly high in public confidence. These enterprising merchants have the right kind of commercial spirit and have built up a paying trade. They carry several grades of goods, moderately priced, and in sufficient variety to encourage local patronage, and in consequence have won the confidence and support of the community. John W. and James D. Hutchisson were born at Oxford, sons of James and Margaret (Fields) Hutchisson, who still make their home here. The father, for a number of years a prominent farmer and stockdealer of Butler county, and later a butcher at Oxford, is now living in comfortable retirement, having amassed a goodly share of worldly goods. There were nine children in the family: Ella, who is the wife of Alfred Garrett, of Chicago, Ill.; Wealthy, who is the wife of P. O. Schultz, a resident of Franklin county, Ind., where Mr. Schultz is engaged in agricultural pursuits; John W.; Emma, who married Arthur Smith, a mail carrier of Oxford; William, who is identified with Carson, Pirie, Scott & company, of Chicago, Ill., and is married; Lottie, who makes her home with her parents; Laura, who is the widow of Clark Nelson and resides at Cleveland, Ohio; James D.; and Margaret, the wife of George Obergfeld, an oil and gas chemist, late of Pittsburg. John W. and James D. Hutchisson received their educational training in the public schools of Oxford and as youths entered as employees in an old established grocery business of Oxford. They were quick to learn all details of the trade, and in 1907 became by purchase the proprietors of the business, which they have since conducted with great success. They carry a full line of staple and fancy groceries thus making their establishment the leading grocery of Oxford and worthy of the patronage given the business. John W. Hutchisson married Althea Wagner, and James D. married Blanche Fry and has one child,

347

Edna. The brothers have taken an active part in the civic life of the community, James having formerly been chief of the fire department for five years, and John W. holding the same position for four years. The latter is a director of the Oxford Telephone company, and both belong to the Oxford Lodge of Masons, James D. being a trustee of that lodge. By sheer pluck, industry and enterprise they have built up a business representative of the best commercial element of Butler county.

L. R. Hyams, a real estate, insurance and investments operator of Hamilton, was born at Springfield, Ohio, a son of Al G. Hyams, who came to Hamilton when his son was three years old; and for twenty-six years was connected with the T. V. Howe company and The Mathes & Sohngen company. L. R. Hyams received his education in the public schools of Hamilton, and after leaving high school secured a position with the Mosler Safe company, a concern with which he remained two years. Later he entered the circulation department of the Hamilton Sun, remaining one and one-half years, when he accepted a position as traveling salesman and followed that occupation for four years. In 1908, Mr. Hyams entered the real estate business at Hamilton, dealing principally in business properties. He is a valued member of the Hamilton Real Estate Dealers association, as well as of the state and national bodies, and is known as a man of the highest integrity. He is a strong Democrat and prominent in the ranks of his party, and while a resident of Somerville, served in the capacity of postmaster from June, 1914, to December, 1915. He is likewise prominent in the Knights of Pythias, being deputy grand chancellor of Butler county and a member of the Butler County Pythian association, of which he was president one year. Mr. Hyams was married, in 1907, to Miss Jennie M. Stephens, of Somerville, Ohio, where he has since been making his home. Four children have been born to this union: Pauline, Robert, Marion and Dorothy, all at home.

Charles Ingle. On the roster of names appearing on the pay roll of the American Rolling Mill company is found that of Charles Ingle, an energetic and progressive citizen of Middletown who has long wielded an influence among his fellows and has held their respect as well as that of the company with which he has been identified for some years in the capacity of heater. As a skilled and industrious workman he has rendered his company excellent service during the period of his incumbency of his present position, and his ideals of citizenship are such as to make him a valuable man in his community. Mr. Ingle was born near Cozaddale, Warren county, Ohio, April 22, 1881, a son of John and Millie (Langa) Ingle, and came with his mother to Middletown about the year 1899. He comes of good stock, his ancestors on his father's side of the family being of English origin, while the Langa's were French. John Ingle, who for many years was engaged in agricultural pursuits in Warren county, was a veteran of the Civil war in which he fought bravely as a Union soldier, and was a man of influence in his community, where he was held in the highest esteem. In September, 1895, he met his death in a railroad accident,

348

his locality thereby losing one of its best citizens. John Ingle's family consisted of seven children, three by his first wife, Ezetta; Mary, deceased, and Elizabeth; and four by his second wife who are now residents of Middletown: Charles; Mattie, who is now the wife of Fleet Williams; Florence; and Fred. Two of the nephews of Charles Ingle and sons of Elizabeth (Ingle) Cutler were in the United States Army during the country's participation in the great war: Owen and Victor Cutler, of Milford, Ohio. Charles Ingle was given his education in the district schools of Warren county and much of his boyhood and youth was passed on the home farm in that section. He was about eighteen years of age when he accompanied his mother to Middletown, and shortly thereafter the American Rolling Mill company opened its plant and he secured employment. There he completed his trade and has since continued to be employed as a heater, a position in which he has discharged his duties so well as to secure the commendatory criticism of his superiors. He is a general favorite with his fellow workmen, and is a man of splendid mind and fine physique. Fraternally, Mr. Ingle is affiliated with the local lodges of the Knights of Columbus and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and has taken an interest in lodge work. He and the members of his family belong to Holy Trinity Catholic church, to the movements of which they have been liberal contributors. The Ingle home, on Harrison avenue, which was erected by Mr. Ingle, is a handsome one, and its doors are always thrown hospitably open to the many friends of Mr. Ingle and his wife. Mr. Ingle married Carrie, daughter of John and Anna (Reagan) Klock, of Middletown. Mr. Klock, who was one of the respected citizens of Middletown, and a veteran of the struggle between the North and South, died July 5, 1913. He and his wife were the parents of five daughters: Carrie; a child who died in infancy; Mayme, who is also deceased; and Anna and Lena, who reside with their widowed mother and hold lucrative positions at Dayton.

James Inloes. Farming has stimulated the best efforts of some of the leading men of various parts of Butler county, and through their participation therein they have become well-to-do and prominent in their communities. Such a man is James Inloes, of Morgan township, who is known in his community as a skilled and successful general farmer. Mr. Inloes was born in Butler county, Ohio, June 24, 1873, a son of David and Elizabeth (Hamlin) Inloes, the former a native of Hamilton county and the latter of England. The mother came to the United States a child and resided with her parents in Hamilton county, Ohio, until her marriage to Mr. Inloes, after which the young couple moved to a farm in Morgan township, Butler county, after a short residence in Franklin county, Ind. They became the parents of the following children: Alfred and John, residents of Oxford, Ohio; Clem, who resides in Reily township, this county; William, of Morgan township; James, of this review; Lois, deceased; Kate, deceased, who was the wife of Harry Hamilton of Okeana, and had one child, Charles; and Elizabeth and Lessie, deceased. William Inloes has two sons who were in the army during

349

the late war, Frank and Carl the latter of whom saw active service in France. James Inloes attended the public schools of Franklin county, Ind., and Morgan township, and following the completion of his education worked for his father until he attained his majority, after which he began working by the month. He was married March 4, 1896, to Margaret, daughter of Jonathan and Helen Levingston, of Franklin county, Ind., who had six other daughters: Inzia Harling of New Zealand, whose husband met his death during the great war; Belle, Gertrude, Emma, Ola and Mary. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Inloes: Lillian, Martha, Valita and Upton. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Inloes settled on the farm of W. L. Beard, of Oxford, located in Morgan township, and Mr. Inloes became the owner thereof by purchasing in 1915. This is a productive tract of 180 acres, which he devotes to general farming and the raising of Jersey and Holstein cattle, and in both departments has been entirely successful. He is thoroughly conversant with modern methods of agricultural work, and as he is progressive and at the same time practical he has become known as one of the able agriculturists of his community. As a citizen, also, he has been active in promoting good movements. His political allegiance is with the Democratic party, and he and the members of his family belong to the Christian church at Scipio.

Jacob A. Inman. The prosperity that has come to many of the Butler county agriculturists is not due to chance but to a fortunate selection of location and persistent and intelligent working of the land. One of the retired farmers of this locality, who during a long, active and honorable career developed a valuable property and won and held the respect and esteem of those with whom he came into contact, is Jacob A. Inman, at this time a resident of Somerville, Mr. Inman was born in Randolph county, Ind., February 8, 1842, a son of Benjamin and Louise (Smith) Inman, natives of New Jersey. Benjamin Inman was but six years of age when he accompanied his father, Jacob Inman, and the rest of the family to Ohio, in 1818, in which year they located three miles northeast of Somerville, in Preble county. This was wooded country, but the grandfather, Jacob, aided by his sons, cleared a farm, cultivated it, and established a home. Although a civil engineer by profession, Jacob Inman continued to be engaged in farming all of his life, and died while on a visit to Cleveland. He and his wife were the parents of nine children: Anthony, Rebecca, Samuel, Benjamin, Axel, Jacob, Jobe, Joseph and Barzilla. Benjamin Inman grew up on the home place and went to the school located three miles west of Camden, and when he entered upon his career it was as an agriculturist. Later in life he went to Randolph county, Ind., where he became a prominent citizen and was for a number of years the incumbent of the office of justice of the peace. Returning to Butler county in 1876 he located near Seven Mile and bought the old home place in Preble county, but died two years later, at the age of sixty-six years. His widow survived him for some years and passed away when eighty-two. While they were of Quaker stock, there was no settlement of Quakers in their near community, and they became members of the

350

Christian church. Politically a staunch Republican, Mr. Inman took much interest in public affairs. Six children were born to him and his wife: Rachael, who died single; Hannah, who married Hiram Pottinger, of West Elkton, Ohio; Jobe S., a farmer of Somerville who married Jane Swope; Benjamin, a retired farmer residing near West Elkton ; William E., who lost his life by drowning in the Miami river, when thirty years of age; and Jacob A. Jacob A. Inman received his education in the public schools of his home community and grew up on the home farm. He was but nineteen years of age when the war broke out, and in the following year, August 13, 1862, enlisted in Company G, 83d Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Seven Mile. His regiment was sent to Vicksburg, and subsequently Mr. Inman took part in the battles of Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Port Gibson, Champion Hill, Big Black River, first and second battles of Vicksburg, siege of Jackson and Fort Blakely, and skirmishes at Greenville, Cane River, Morris Plantation and Atchapalaya River. He was promoted corporal and later sergeant, and January 17, 1865, was transferred to Company I of the same regiment. After a service characterized by bravery in the line of duty and fidelity to every trust, he received his honorable discharge July 24, 1865, at Galveston, Texas. He still retains membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, belonging to Hamilton Post. Following his military service, Mr. Inman returned to his home, where he remained, taking care of his parents until his marriage, February 13, 1879, to Sarah M. Frazee, who was born in 1849, at Billingsville, Ind., daughter of Edwin and Hannah (Baker) Frazee, natives of New Jersey who came early to Ohio. They first located in Hamilton county but subsequently moved to two miles west of Somerville, farming there for a few years, and then moving one mile nearer to the city, where both died. They had five children: Mrs. Inman; Samuel, a farmer living one mile west of Somerville; Laura, the wife of John Helvey, both now deceased; Lydia, deceased, who was the wife of the late R. Bennett; and Caleb, who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Inman have had no children of their own, but have adopted a nephew and a niece, Clarence S. and Mary Stephens, the latter now chief operator at the Somerville Telephone exchange. The former was born at Middletown, Ind., a son of Curtis Stephens, of Preble county. He has lived with Mr. Inman since his eighth year, and during the past two years has been engaged in operating his foster father's farm. During the time the United States was in the great war, he served as a corporal in Company K, 332d Regiment, 83d Division. Following his marriage, Mr. Inman lived on the old home place for twelve years, and then moved west of Somerville, where he made his home from 1889 to 1916. In addition to the old Frazee place of eighty acres, in section 4, Milford township, he has fifty-three acres of the Inman farm and is accounted to be in comfortable financial circumstances. In 1916 he purchased a home at Somerville, where he has since been living in quiet retirement, enjoying the fruits of his early years of toil. Mr. Inman has never cared for public office, but is a staunch supporter of Republican principles and candidates and an active worker in all public-spirited movements

351

that promise to be of benefit to his community and its people. He and Mrs. Inman are faithful members of the Presbyterian church, in which he has been an Elder for several years. Possessed .of an exceptional memory, Mr. Inman can recall vividly the experience of his early days in this locality, which he frequently relates in an interesting manner when surrounded by some of his numerous friends.

page 351 continues