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ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO
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Source:
HISTORY of
ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO

By Mrs. Moina W. Large
IN TWO VOLUMES
- ILLUSTRATED -
- VOLUME ONE -
Published by Historical Publishing Company
Topeka - Indianapolis
1924

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THOMAS RAJALA, is an enterprising and well known merchant of Conneaut.  He was born in Wasa, Finland, Apr. 18, 1881, and is the son of Thomas and Mary (Hunaks) Rajala, natives of Finland.  Mr. Rajala died Aug. 20, 1888, and his wife died Apr. 28, 1918.  They were the parents of the following children:  John, deceased; Otilla, married Henry Kangas, lives in Finland; Lydia, married August Takloma, lives in Finland; Mattie, lives in Conneaut; Mary, married John Erkla, lives in Minnesota; Henry, died in Mar. 1923; Thomas, the subject of this sketch; and Eric and Senfa, both deceased.
     Thomas Rajala was educated in Finland and came to America in 1898, locating at Ashtabula, Ohio, where he remained several years before coming to Conneaut.  In 1906 Mr. Rajala returned to Ashtabula for three years and since that time has lived in Conneaut.  He has been engaged in the bakery business since 1921 and has an extensive trade.
     On Aug. 16, 1902, Mr. Rajala was married to Miss Mary Maki, a native of Finland, born Oct. 24, 1878, and a daughter of Samuel and Anna (Mannala) Maki.  Mr. Maki died in 1906 and his widow resides in Finland.  They had three children: Mrs. Rajala; Alena, married Andy Avinil, lives in Massachusetts; and Emil, lies in Ironwood, Mich.  To Mr. and Mrs. Rajala have been born three children: Louie D., born Mar. 10, 1906, was graduated from Conneaut High School in 1923; Toini R., born Nov. 25, 1907, and O. O., born May 17, 1909.
     Mr. Rajala is a Republican and belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.  He and his family are members of the Lutheran Church and are favorably known in Ashtabula County.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1052

  EDWIN E. RAWDON, deceased, was a prominent pioneer of Ashtabula County.  He was born at Windsor, Ohio, Oct. 4, 1847, and died May 8, 1916.  He was the son of Edwin and Abiline (Howes) Rawdon, natives of Connecticut and early settlers of Ashtabula County.
     R. E. Rawdon was a farmer during his life and met with marked success.  On Nov. 18, 1879, he was married to Miss Rogene Harper who was born at Orwell, June 15, 1857, and died Dec. 8, 1909.  To this union one daughter was born, Abilen, born on Sept. 4, 1886.
     On Dec. 22, 1908, Miss Abilen Rawdon was united in marriage with Frank C. Hall, a native of Michigan, born Feb. 25, 1881, and a son of Peter and Margaret (Powers) Hall.
     Peter Hall
was born in Preble County, Ohio, May 24, 1843.  He was a veteran of the Civil War, and is now deceased.  His wife was born May 4, 1848, and died Jan. 4, 1911.  To this union the following children were born:  William deceased; Minnie Rhodes, lives at Hersey, Mich.; Mary Peck, lives at Hersey, Mich.; Anna Woodward, lives at Grand Rapids, Mich.; Frank C.; Lottie Johnson, lives at Grand Rapids, Mich.  To Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. Hall five children have been born as follows:  Frank Stanley, born Nov. 13, 1909; William Vernon, born May 21, 1911; Eugene Fayette, born Feb. 22, 1904; Margaret Rogene, born June 6, 1917; and Robert Bruce, born May 17, 1922.
     Frank C. Hall, who is now engaged in general farming and stock raising on the old Rawdon homestead in Orwell Township, was formerly engaged in construction work for a number of years.  He has lived on this farm since 1914.
     Mr. Hall is a Republican and a substantial citizen of Ashtabula County.
Source: History of Ashtabula County, Ohio - by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 - Page 959
  R. E. RAWDON

Source: - History of Ashtabula County, Ohio - by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 - Page 955

  FERN REGAL, proprietor of the Regal Sales Agency, is a prominent and successful business man of Ashtabula.  He is the agent for the Royal Vacuum Cleaner and the Easy Vacuum Electric Washer in Ashtabula, Lake and Trumbull counties.  Mr. Regal was born on a farm in Fowler Township, Trumbull County, Ohio, Jan. 26, 1885, and is the son of Edgar and Leota (Oatley) Regal.
     Edgar Regal
was born in Ohio and during his life lived at Lennox, where he owned a cheese factory.  He died in 1890 and his wife now lives in Ohio.  Mr. and Mrs. Regal had one son, Fern, the subject of this sketch.
     Fern Regal received his education in the public schools at Mecca, Ohio, and in early youth manifested a great interest in salesmanship.  After selling various articles he became the agent in Ashtabula County for the Royal Electric Vacuum Cleaner in 1916.  Mr. Regal’s place of business, which is known as the Regal Sales Agency, is located at 74 Main Street.  He also deals in electric irons and other electrical necessities.
     On Dec. 5, 1914, Mr. Regal was united in marriage with Miss Frances Goe, who is a member of one of Ohio’s oldest families.  She is the daughter of John H. and Adelle M. (Smith) Goe.  Mr. Goe was a native of Trumbull County, Ohio, and was born Sept. 17, 1841, the son of John and Mary (Meek) Goe.  John Goe was born in Ireland, Aug. 3, 1798, and came to this country in 1819 and settled in Beaver County, Pa., where he remained until 1873, at which time he moved his family to Trumbull County, Ohio.  He became a prominent farmer and died a number of years ago.  His wife was a daughter of M. Meek, pioneer farmer of Washington County, Ohio.
     John H. Goe, father of Mrs. Regal, was reared and educated in Ohio and at the age of 20 years went to California by steamship.  After five years he returned to Ohio and engaged in farming until 1875, at which time he engaged in the dry goods business at Cortland, Ohio.  He was married on Jan. 21, 1868, to Miss Mary L. Brooks, who was born in 1846 and died Oct. 20, 1874, leaving two children: Arthur M., deceased; and Ray, deceased.  In 1875 Mr. Goe was married to Miss Adelle M. Smith, who was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, Sept. 1, 1853, and the daughter of Rev. Calvin and Marie Smith.  To this union two children were born: Alice, married C. W. Kennedy;  and Francis A. Regal, born Aug. 24, 1889.  Mr. Goe died in May, 1923, and his wife resides in Ashtabula.  To Mr. and Mrs. Regal one daughter has been born, Miriam, born June 6, 1918. 
     Mr. Regal is a member of the Church of Christ.  He is a man esteemed in his community for his integrity, and spirit of co-operation in all civic affairs.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 467
 

CHARLES J. REYNOLDS is a successful business man and prominent citizen of Ashtabula.  He is the owner and proprietor of the Reynolds Creamery and is Ashtabula's largest dairyman.  Mr. Reynolds was born in Albany, N. Y., July 10, 1885, and is the son of John W. and Annie (Calvin) Reynolds.
     John W. Reynolds
, who now lives in England, was born there and at the age of 16 years came to this country and located at Albany, N. Y., where he became a well known manufacturer.  He was the inventor of the casting and for automatic pin setters in use in bowling alleys and also invented a pumping jack, which is used extensively by oil operators.  Mr. Reynolds owned and operated foundries at Boston, Mass., New York and Jewett, Pa., and is now living retired.  Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are the parents of five children, as follows: Charles J., the subject of this sketch; Eleanor, married Walter S. Rooney, and he is now on a business trip in Japan; William C., an artist, lives in New York City; Anna, a trained nurse, lives at Albany, N. Y.; and Ralph F., lives in Cleveland.
     Charles J. Reynolds received his education in the public and high schools of Albany, N. Y., and his first business venture was as circulation manager of the Schenectady Evening Star.  He later was associated with his father for four years, after which he traveled for three years for the Diamond Power Specialty Company.  Mr. Reynolds was connected with the Erie Engine Works for a year, after which he engaged in the milk business at Erie in 1914.  After six and one-half years he sold his business interests there to the Erie Milk Association and in 1921 removed to Ashtabula, where he purchased the milk business of Frank R. Eastman, which at that time was located on Center Street.  Six months later, Mr. Reynolds opened his new plant on Runkle Street, where he is now located.  He has a modern creamery, the largest in Ashtabula County, and takes care of 1400 customers.  He operates four trucks and five teams of horses and also has a retail store at 24 Center Street.
     In 1907 Mr. Reynolds was united in marriage with Miss Emily Durrin, a native of Saratoga Springs, N. Y., and the daughter of George and Emma (Harrington) Durrin, natives of New York.  Mr. Durrin was a farmer and was killed in 1903.  His widow lives in Saratoga Springs, N. Y.  There were six children in the Durrin family, as follows:  May, married N. Whinney lives in New York; Frank, died during the Spanish-American War; Harley, married Ethel Vandenburgh lives at Saratoga Springs, N. Y.; Mrs. Reynolds; Bessie, married Matt Fleming lives at Saratoga Springs, N. Y.; and Leona, died in 1919To Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds three children have been born, Charles R., Robert and William.
     Mr. Reynolds
and his family hold membership in the Congregational church and he belongs to the Elks.  He is an enterprising citizen of Ashtabula an stands high in his community.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1026

 

CLARK E. RICHARD, a prosperous farmer of Andover township, is a native of Pennsylvania. He was born at West Salem, June 14, 1870, and is the son of Abraham P. and Hannah (Artman) Richard.
     Abraham P. Richard was a native of Pennsylvania, born November 26, 1837. He moved his family to Ohio in 1882 and settled on the present Richard farm in Andover township. Mr. Richard was successful as a farmer and stockman and was well known throughout the county. He died March 11, 1916, and his wife, who was born July 9, 1838, died August 20, 1896. Mr. and Mrs. Richard were the parents of the following children: Milton, lives at Youngstown, Ohio; Frank, deceased; Clark E., the subject of this sketch Oscar W., lives at Erie, Pa., and five children died in infancy.
     Clark E. Richard spent his boyhood on the home place and attended the district schools. In 1899 Mr. Richard took over the home place in Andover township, which he has since operated. He specializes in the breeding of dairy stock and is an extensive dairyman.
     On November 28, 1906, Mr. Richard was married to Miss Alice Barber, a native of Williamsfield, Ohio, born March 9, 1885, and the daughter of Ansel and Harriet Barber, deceased. To Mr. and  Mrs. Richard four daughters have been born as follows: Gladys B. born February 13, 1908; Ruth and Ruby, twins, born June 5, 1910; and Arlie Irene, born November 9, 1911.
     Mr. Richard is an independent voter. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.  Mr. Richard is a substantial man, industrious and capable, who has made a success of his work.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1003

  ARTHUR JESSE RICHARDSON.  One of the active participants in the business life of Ashtabula for many years was Arthur J. Richardson, a native of the old Bay State, whose parents, Jesse R. and Mary Pearson Richardson, migrated to Ohio when he was a lad of seven years.  He was born in Winchester, Mass., on Apr. 12, 1868.
     After concluding his common-school work in Painesville, in which place the family had settled, he entered a jewelry store in that town, where he learned the jeweler's trade, but did not make that his future occupation.  In 1891 he came to Ashtabula and engaged as manager of the shoe store of Chamberlin & Company, and later became a partner with C. W. Herrick in the shoe business.  Subsequently, Mr. Richardson spent several years as clerk to the board of public service, with office in the city hall and after that he engaged in the insurance business.  For three years he was employed as circulation manager for the Ashtabula Star-Beacon, and thereby gained a general knowledge of the city which was a great advantage to him in his later position as postmaster, to which he was appointed in 1923, first as acting postmaster, on Aug. 5, and as postmaster in the following December.  He was for many years a member of the county board of elections.  Altogether, he was for 33 years one of the active business men of the city and closely allied with its commercial and civic history.
     Mr. Richardson was a prominent and active member of the Masonic Order, being secretary of the Blue Lodge at the time of his demise.  He was also affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Knights of Pythias.  He held membership in the First Presbyterian Church, the Chamber of Commerce, the Y. M. C. A., Rotary Club and Boy Scout Council.  He was particularly interested and active in the boys' work.
     On June 22, 1898, Mr. Richardson was married, the bride being Miss Mary R. Mygatt, of Ashtabula.  On Sept. 30, 1924, while Mr. and Mrs. Richardson were spending the day at his old home in Painesville, he was stricken with apoplexy and on the next day he expired.  The position thus made vacant in the postoffice was filled by the appointment of Mr. Richardson as acting postmaster, effective Jan. 24, 1925, she having received the unanimous endorsement of the city Republican committee.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1017

  CLARENCE E. RICHARDSON.  One of the old and substantial families of Ashtabula, who aided in the upbuilding of a great and prosperous community, was the Richardson family, of whom Clarence E., is a member.  He was born in Ashtabula, Dec. 25, 1856, and is a son of Capt. Chauncey and Eliza (Scoville) Richardson.
     Henry Richardson
, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a pioneer of the northern Ohio lake shore region, was a merchant at one time and some 70 years ago was lighthouse keeper at Madison Dock.  It was at Madison Dock that the late Capt. Chauncey Richardson was born in 1832.  He was a brother of the late Capt. W. C. Richardson, also prominent in lake shipping circles.  Capt. Chauncey Richardson was captain on a vessel many years and for five years, during Grover Cleveland’s administration, was collector of customs at Ashtabula Harbor.  He died very suddenly while on a pleasure trip up the lakes with his wife and friends in 1900.  His wife was born in Ashtabula in 1832, the daughter of Adnah and Persis Scoville.  She died in 1901.
     Adnah Scoville, one of Ashtabula’s oldest pioneers, was a brother of George Scoville.  They were blacksmiths and had large families, most of whom are now deceased.  Adnah Scoville was a prime mover in the Good Templar’s society and a great church worker in the Methodist denomination.  He was at one time mayor of Ashtabula.
     To Chauncey and Eliza (Scoville) Richardson two sons were born: Clarence E., and Charley Henry   The latter resides in Ashtabula and has had an active career as a banker, merchant, and for 26 years was associated with the Richards Bros., Wholesale Grocers, being at the head of the office force and a buyer.  For the past two years he has been office manager of the Ashtabula Bow Socket Company, as well as auditor for the Peoples Building & Loan Company.  He is married and lives on North Main Street.
     Clarence E. Richardson was educated in the Ashtabula public schools and spent the following nine years in the Ashtabula offices of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway, six years of which he served as cashier.  The next five years he was secretary of the Bradley Mfg. Co., of Ashtabula.  Mr. Richardson was associated for 22 years with his uncle, the late Capt. W. C. Richardson, in the vessel offices of the W. C. Richardson & Co., who handled 20 steamboats up to three years ago when the various vessel companies were merged into one, now called the Columbia Steamship Company, and managed through the offices of Oglebay, Norton & Co., Hanna Bldg., Cleveland.  Clarence E. Richardson retired from the positions of secretary and treasurer of the various companies, and in 1923 engaged in the real estate business, with offices in the National Bank Building in Ashtabula.  He was also associated with the Crabbe-Carrell Company, real estate dealers of Cleveland, where he has resided for the past 24 years.  His home is at 1860 Alvason Road, East Cleveland.
     In March, 1885, Mr. Richardson was united in marriage with Miss Caroline King, the daughter of Wallace B. and Eliza (McHugh) King, both now deceased.  Mrs. Richardson was born at Racine, Wis., and educated in the public schools of Youngstown, Ohio, and at Hiram College.  She is a member of the Hiram Club of Cleveland and several other organizations.
     Mr. Richardson is a past master of Rising Sun Lodge No. 22, F. & A. M., a member of Western Reserve Chapter Royal Arch Masons, Columbian Commandery No. 52, Knights Templars, Cleveland Council, Lake Erie Consistory, Scottish Rite, Al Koran Shrine, Al Sirrat Grotto, Masonic Lodge, the Lions Club and the Union Club of Cleveland.  He is a life member of the Ashtabula Lodge No. 308, B. P. O. E., of which lodge he was a prime mover in its organization in 1890, and its second exalted ruler.  He is also past president of the Cleveland Society of Ashtabula County.  He served as mayor of Ashtabula during the years 1888 and 1889 and has seen the city grow from a small town to one now assuming metropolitan airs, and “Clarence” says “Ashtabula is surely on the map”.
     Some 50 years ago Mr. Richardson was quite musically and theatrically inclined and in 1873 organized the once famous Commonwealth Minstrel Company, which organization was kept up for several years.  Later he was treasurer for the ten famous Walter L. Main Circus and Menageries, but he says now as time passes on he is content to let the younger fellows take a hand.
Source #2:
History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I – 1924 – Page 464  - Portrait on page 464a

 

LOREN WARREN RING, deceased, was a prominent citizen of Ashtabula County for many years.  He was born at Edinboro, Pa., Mar. 26, 1852, and the son of Almon and Eliza (Marble) Ring. 
    
The Ring family settled in Ashtabula County during the early days and were leading farmers.  Loren Warren, the subject of this sketch, has the following brothers and sisters:  Frank, George, Truman, Cornelia and Mary, all of whom are now deceased.
     Loren Warren Ring came to Ashtabula County when a young man and engaged in general farming and stock raising.  He owned 302 acres of land which he improved, and at the time of his death, March 26, 1905, he was among the prosperous farmers of Conneaut Township.
     Mr. Ring was married on Jan. 1, 1877, to Miss Mary Jane Titus, a native of Conneaut Township, was born in 1854, and the daughter of Anson and Jane (Risley) Titus, the former a native of New Hampshire and the latter of New York.  The Titus family were among the earliest settlers of Ashtabula County, making the trip from their native states by horse and wagon.  They settled at Kelloggsville, where Mr. Titus became a leading citizen.  He died Oct. 20, 1881, at the age of 81 years, and his second wife died at the age of 70 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Titus were the parents of the following children:  Mrs. Ring; Ernest,  a fruit farmer, lives on the old home place; Isabel, married John Irish, lives at Conneaut; Sarah, Henry, Marcus, Mary Ann, and Alma, all of whom are deceased.  The last named five children were the children of Mr. Titus and his first wife, and half-brothers and sisters of Mrs. Ring.  To Loren Warren and Mary Jane (Titus) Ring four children were born, as follows:  Milton A., an extensive fruit farmer, lives at home; Roy Ernest,  also a fruit farmer, Conneaut Township; Bessie Belle, married William H. Baird, lives in Conneaut Township; and John Burton, fruit farmer, Conneaut Township.  Mrs. Ring has ten grandchildren.
     Mr. Ring was a Republican and a reliable and highly respected citizen of his community.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ page 713
SHARON WICK'S NOTE:  Loren W. Ring and Mary Ring are buried at Amboy Cemetery, Conneaut, Ashtabula Co., Ohio.
Near them are Leonarda F. and Milton Ring.

 

WARREN B. RISLEY is a substantial citizen of Ashtabula County.  He was born in Conneaut Township, April 18, 1871, and is the son of Henry and Laura (Tripp) Risley, natives of New York and Ohio, respectively: Mr. and Mrs. Risley were the parents of the following children:  Delilah, deceased, was the wife of W. B. Carter; Emery, a farmer, lives in Conneaut Township, Ashtabula County; L. L., also a farmer in Conneaut Township; Clara, married M. B. Lillie, lives at Conneaut; Joseph L., lives at Conneaut; Warren B., the subject of this sketch; and Warner, died in infancy.  Mr. Risley died May 27, 1913, and his wife died July 27, 1889.
     Warren B. Risley spent his boyhood on his father's farm in Conneaut Township and attended the district schools.  He began life as a hardware clerk for Charles M. Traver in Conneaut, where he remained for three years.  Since 1907 he has been in the employ of the Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad as telegraph operator and clerk, in which capacity he now serves.
     On June 8, 1898, Mr. Risley was united in marriage with Miss Bertha Mae Phillips, a native of Pennsylvania, and the daughter of George W. and Eleanora L. (Fraiser) Phillips, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Pennsylvania.  Mr. Phillips died April 7, 1899.  His wife died June 11, 1924.  Before her marriage, Mrs. Phillips taught school.  There were five children in the Phillips family: Clarence I., lives at Evansville, Ind.,; Mrs. Risley; Glen G., lives at Toledo, Ohio; Clara, a vocalist, married Dr. C. G. Shreve, lives at Martin's Ferry, Ohio; and Georgia, also a vocalist, married Frank Needham, lives at Cleveland.  Before her marriage Mrs. Risley taught music.  To Warren B. and Bertha Mae (Phillips) Risley have been born three children:  Zatella, born March 24, 1899, died March 27, 1899; Clarence T., born March 29, 1902, attends college; and Henry George, born Jan. 29, 1907, died in infancy.  Clarence T. Risley  is studying medicine at Denison University in Ohio.
     Mr. Risley is a Republican and a member of the Baptist Church.  He is a reliable citizen, who is highly esteemed by his fellow citizens.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 679

 

JOHN S. RIST, a substantial citizen of Conneaut, in the employ of the Pittsburgh & Conneaut Dock Company as a foreman, was born at Connellsville, in Fayette County, Pa., June 8, 1872, and is a son of John S. and Catherine (Bailey) Rist.)
     Conrad Rist
, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was among the earliest settlers of Philadelphia.  His son, John S., Sr., was employed by the National Locomotive Works at Erie, Pa., for a number of years.  He was a Republican and a prominent politician in his time. He died Oct. 24, 1876, and his wife died Oct. 25, 1921.  They were the parents of the following children: George, lives at Connellsville, Pa.; Charles, lives at Conneaut; Mary married William Cole, lives at Pittsburgh, Pa.; John S., the subject of this sketch; and Anna, died in infancy.
     John S. Rist spent his boyhood at Braddock, Pa., and attended the public schools there.  After spending 13 years there in the employ of the public schools there.  After spending 13 years there in the employ of the Edgar Thompson Steel Works, he traveled throughout the country, working at his trade, that of a tin smith and plumber.  In 1904 he located at Conneaut, where he entered the employ of the Pittsburgh & Conneaut Dock Company, and in 1907 was promoted to foreman of the plumbing department.
     On Nov. 19, 1890, Mr. Rist was married to Miss Tennie Cogan, who was born at Titusville, Pa., Dec. 9, 1873.  To this union were born three children:  Clyde S., a conductor on the New York Central Railroad, lives at Cleveland; Leroy lives at East Alton, Ill., is a World War veteran; and Earl, deceased.  On Dec. 24, 1913, Mr. Rist was married to Miss Hazel B. Groninger.  Mrs. Rist has the following brothers and sisters: Harry E., lives in Pennsylvania; Edna, married Alfred Beers, lives in Cleveland; Charles H.; Hilda; Leona H., and Glen.  Mr. Groninger died May 15, 1919, and his wife died in 1891.  To John S. and Hazel B. (Groninger) Rist has been born one son, John S., Jr., born Apr. 21, 1918.
     Mr. Rist is identified with the Republican party and is a member of the Methodist church.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1060

  RICHARD RITARI, a substantial citizen of Conneaut, was born in Finland, Jan. 21, 1884, and is the son of Thomas and Margaret (Korpela) Ritari, natives of Finland, now deceased.  There were five children in the Ritari familySusan, married Charles Malnberg, lives in Finland; Mary, married Charles Grant, lives retired in Florida; Lizzie, deceased, was the wife of Herman Pakka, lives at Springfield, Pa.; Herman lives in Washington; and Richard, the subject of this sketch.
     Richard Ritari spent his boyhood in his native land and in 1902 came to the United States.  He settled in Conneaut and in 1918 entered the employ of the Nickel Plate Railroad in the car repair shops.  Mr. Ritari owns his home, which is located at 954 Broad Street.
     On Jan. 7, 1904, Mr. Ritari was married to Miss Lempi Sundberg, a native of Finland, born Feb. 13, 1883, and the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Rannanpa) Sundberg, both deceased.  Mr. and Mrs. Sundberg had five children: Susan, married Thomas Lahti, lives in Finland; Mary, lives in New Hampshire; Lizzie, married John Markko, lives in Finland; Mrs. Ritari; and Josephine, married Matt Kainppi, lives at Springfield, Pa.  To Richard and Lempi (Sundberg) Ritari seven children have been born, as follows:  Arvo, born July 27, 1905, lives in Conneaut; Lauri born July 17, 1906; Ilmari, born Sept. 24, 1907; Eino, born Jan. 28, 1910; Waino, born Apr. 28, 1913; Lillian, born Oct. 31, 1917; and Helen, born Oct. 5, 1922.
     Lauri Ritari will be graduated from Conneaut High School in the class of 1925.  He is captain of the high school football and baseball teams and also president of the Hi Y Club.
     Mr. Ritari and his family are members of the Lutheran Church and he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1060
  JUDGE JAMES W. ROBERTS of the Court of Appeals at Jefferson, is one of the widely known and successful attorneys of Ashtabula County.  He was born at Kinsman, in Trumbull County, Ohio, Aug. 3, 1858, and is a son of Lorenzo W. and Mary Jane (Ward) Roberts.
     Lorenzo W. Roberts, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War.  He was born at St. Albans, Vt. and at an early date settled in Lake County, Ohio, and later went to Trumbull County, where he engaged in farming and stock raising.  He served in the 10th Ohio Cavalry throughout the Civil War and died in February, 1905.  He was a Republican and a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.  His wife died in October, 1910.  Mr. and Mrs. Roberts were the parents of five children:  James W., the subject of this sketch; Harriet A., lives at Kinsman, Ohio; Frank A., hardware dealer, lives at Kinsman, Ohio; Perry M., building contractor, lives at Geneva, Ohio; and Arva L., lives at Kinsman, Ohio.
     Judge James W. Roberts was reared on his father's farm and received his education in eth Kinsman Academy and also attended Jamestown Seminary.  After teaching school for several terms, he began the study of "law with Clarence Darrow, and was admitted to the bar in 1881.  Judge Roberts practiced his profession at Andover from 1884 until 1897, at which time he removed to Jefferson, where he formed a partnership with S. A. Northway.  After several years Judge Roberts  became associated with E. S. Perry, who later served as common pleas judge.  He was appointed common pleas judge on Aug. 3, 1905, by Governor Herrick to succeed Judge Hall, who died while in office.  After serving Judge Hall's unexpired term, he was reelected to this office for three successive terms and in February, 1921, resigned as common pleas judge to accept his present office.
     On May 24, 1883, Judge Roberts was united in marriage with Miss Clara C. Brockway, a native of Mercer County, Pa., and a daughter of Jeremiah and Caroline Brockway, natives of Pennsylvania, now deceased.  There were four children in the Brockway family ; Sumner S. and Wendell W., both deceased; Mrs. Roberts; and Martha M., married Frank A. Roberts, hardware dealer of Kinsman, Ohio.  To Judge and Mrs. Roberts three children were born; Ethel E., court reporter in the Court of Appeals, lives at home; Burke B., a graduate of Case School of Applied Science, Ohio University, and Baldwin-Wallace University, now a civil engineer in the employ of the Crowell-Little Construction Company of Cleveland; and Mary C., married R. A. VanWye, lives at Cincinnati, Ohio.  He is a veteran of the World War and after two years in active service was selected as a member of General Pershing's band.  There are four grandchildren: James W., and Burke B. Roberts; John R., and Nancy VanWye.
     Judge Roberts
is a Republican and belongs to the Masonic Lodge, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Elks Lodge.  Judge Roberts is a capable lawyer and has a wide acquaintance in Ashtabula County.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1065
  W. J. ROBERTS, station agent at Dorset, is a well known and substantial citizen of Ashtabula County.  He was born in England, Dec. 13, 1861, and is the son of J. W. and Ann Roberts
     J. W. Roberts and his wife were natives of England and in 1865 came to this country and settled in Trumbull County, Ohio, where he engaged in coal mining.  He died at the age of 66 years and his wife died at the age of 76 years.  They were the parents of six children: Lizzie, deceased; W. J., the subject of this sketch; Anna, Gallitin, Pa.; Harriet, New Castle, Pa.; Emma, San Francisco, Calif., and John, Pittsburgh, Pa.
     W. J. Roberts attended the schools of Brookfield, Ohio and in 1884 attended business college at New Lyme, Ohio.  In 1890 he studied telegraphy and four years later became station agent for the New York Central Railroad at Williamsfield, Ohio.  Since 1896 he has served in that capacity for the same company at Dorset.
     In 1892 Mr. Roberts was united in marriage at Youngstown, Ohio with Miss Anna Williams, of Brookfield, Ohio.  They have two children: Edith Carter, a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, who was married in November, 1923; and Anna, now a student at Lake Erie College.
     Mr. Roberts is a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and belongs to the Masonic lodge.  He is widely known in Ashtabula County and has well earned the respect and esteem of his many friends.
Source: History of Ashtabula County, Ohio - by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 - Page 881
  L. M. ROBINSON, well known passenger conductor on the New York Central Railroad and highly esteemed citizen of Ashtabula, was born at Fredonia, N. Y., Apr. 21, 1856.  He is the son of Samuel B. and Eleanor (Ellis) Robinson.
     Samuel B. Robinson
, deceased, was a veteran of the Civil War.  He was born near Fredonia, N. Y., in June, 1833, and died in 1902.  During the Civil War he served with the 129th New York Volunteers and had four brothers in service during the war.  Mr. Robinson was employed by the Lake Shore, Grand Trunk and Michigan Central Railroad at Jackson, Mich., for 20 years as transfer agent, and at the time of his death was living there retired.  His wife, who was born Jan. 29, 1836, at Fredonia, N. Y., died May 19, 1924.  Mr. and Mrs. Robinson had six children, as follows:  Addie, born in 1853, married John Cook, deceased, and she lives at Jackson, Mich., and has five children, George, Ella, Grace, Samuel and Winifred; L. M., the subject of this sketch; Emma born in 1861, married E. E. Rowley, lives at Jackson, Mich., and they have three children, Arthur, Ruth, and Harriet; Hattie, born in 1866, died in 1900; Minnie, born in 1880, died at the age of seven years; and Levi, born in 1859 and died at the age of six years.
     L. M. Robinson received his education in the schools of Jackson, Mich., and when a young man entered the employ of the Lake Shore Railroad as checking clerk.  He was later yardmaster at Jackson, Mich., for 17 months, after which he worked as freight brakeman for nine months.  Mr. Robinson was promoted to freight conductor in 1884 and was later made passenger conductor, in which capacity he has served since 1900.  His present run is on the Buffalo and Pittsburgh Limited.  Mr. Robinson has other interests and is engaged in real estate as a side issue.  He has lived in Ashtabula since 1891.
     On Oct. 24, 1912, Mr. Robinson was united in marriage with Miss Harrietta Hardy, a native of Murray, Iowa, born Apr. 10, 1877, and the daughter of E. G. and Elizabeth (Tenney) Hardy, natives of Painesville, Ohio.  Mr. Hardy was born in 1844 and died in June, 1921.  He served throughout the Civil War, as did also two of his brothers.  Mrs. Hardy lives at Painesville.  There were two children in the Hardy family: Edith, born in 1868, died in 1922; and Mrs. Robinson.  To Mr. and Mrs. Robinson three children have been born, as follows: Wayne Ellis, born May 5, 1914;  Edith Elizabeth, born Aug. 24, 1915; and Helen Grace, born May 14, 1918.
     Mrs. Robinson was educated in the public schools of Painesville, Ohio, and after completing a course at Lake Erie College she attended the Miami Normal College for a time.  She taught school for 20 years in Ashtabula, Painesville and Cleveland and from 1902 until 1910 was principal of the Station Street School in Ashtabula.  Mrs. Robinson is a member of the Women's Club of Ashtabula and is prominent in the affairs of her city.
     Mr. Robinson is a member of the Order of Railroad Conductors and has held all offices in the order and was a delegate to the national convention of Detroit, Mich., and first general chairman and committeeman for 12 years.  Politically he is a Republican, and he and his family are members of the Congregational Church.  He is a man of excellent character, industrious and competent.
Source #2: History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 - page 469
  ALVA W. ROGERS, a successful business man of Ashtabula, engaged in the transfer business, is a member of one of Ohio's prominent pioneer families.  He was born at Lenox, Ohio, Jan. 5, 1850, and is the son of William E. and Lucy A. (Loomis) Rogers.
    
In 1830 William E. Rogers came to Ashtabula County from his native state, Connecticut.  He follows general farming during his life and net with success.  Mr. Rogers died in 1908 and his wife died in 1880.  They were the parents of the following children:  Lucy, died at the age of 13 yeas; Alva W., the subject of this sketch; Henderson lives at Jefferson, Ohio; Eda A., married Frank Marsh, both deceased; and Alice, deceased.
     Alva W. Rogers spent his boyhood on his father's farm and received his education in the district schools.  At the age of 24 years he removed to Ashtabula and engaged in the transfer business, operating one wagon.  Horse drawn street cars were being used at that time in Ashtabula and Mr. Rogers relates many interesting stories of early day life in the county.  He has lived in the same house since 1884.  Mr. Rogers carries on a large volume of business and is known as an enterprising and progressive citizen of his community.
     On April 5, 1882, Mr. Rogers was married to Miss Lillian Webster, a native of Kingsville, Ohio, and the daughter of Lyman and Anna (Hart) Webster, natives of England and early settlers of Massachusetts and later of Kingsville, Ohio.  Mr. Webster became a prosperous farmer of his community and was well known.  To Alva W. and Lillian (Webster) Rogers four children were born as follows:  Fred, who was killed in an accident in 1907; Effie, married E. F. Clark, lives at Jefferson, and they have seven children, Lillian, Jeanette, Luella, Robert, Dorothy, James and Norman; and Lawrence, married Pearl Sims, lives in Ashtabula, and they have one child: Jean Adair; and Clifford C., a clerk in the New York Central Railroad freight office at Ashtabula.
     Politically, Mr. Rogers is a Republican.  He and his family are members of the Baptist church and are highly esteemed members of their community.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page  576 - photo in book.
  J. C. RODGERS, a well known general merchant of Colebrook, is a native of Ashtabula County.  He was born in Colebrook Township, May 11, 1892, and is the son of J. C. and Emma (Thurber) Rodgers. 
     J. C. Rodgers, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania, Feb. 23, 1860, and was the son of William and Mary Rodgers, who came to this county in 1878 and settled on a farm in Colebook Township.  J. C. Rodgers followed farming during the early part of his life and later became a merchant at Colebrook, where he opened a store in 1897.  In  1907 he sold his business and served as county commissioner of Ashtabula County for two terms.  In 1910 he purchased the business of Wade & Andrews at Orwell, and five years later made  his sons partners in the business, which was then known as Rodgers & Sons CompanyMr. Rodgers died Jan. 9, 1916, and is buried at Colebrook.  He was the owner of 240 acres of good farm land in Colebrook Township and the Rodgers residence at Colebrook is among the attractive homes of that section.  He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a thirty-second degree Mason.
     J. C. Rodgers was reared and educated at Colebrook, where he has always lived.  He has a well established business and is widely known throughout the county.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 1082
  HARLAND O. ROOD, manager of the Prospect Clothiers, is an enterprising and successful young man of Ashtabula.  He was born at Sheffield, Ohio, Apr. 7, 1894, and is the son of Rantsom and Lina (Sturgis) Rood.
     Rantsom Rood
is a native of Sheffield, Ohio, and his wife was born in Pennsylvania.  He has always been a farmer and now resides at West Springfield, Pa.  Mr. and Mrs. Rood have four children, as follows:  Pearl, married F. M. Atkin; Bernia, married Elmo Bronz, lives at West Springfield, Pa.; Harland O., the subject of this sketch; and Louis A. Rood.
     Harland O. Rood
spent his boyhood on his father's farm and received his education in the public schools of Ashtabula.  In 1910 he entered the employ of the American Fork & Hoe Company as a clerk and the following year became connected with the D. L. Davis Company of Ashtabula.  Mr. Rood then attended the Ashtabula Business College, after which he was employed by the New York Central Railroad in the blacksmith shops.  In June, 1919, he went to Akron, Ohio, and was employed by the C. H. Yeager Company until the following November, at which time he returned to Ashtabula and became associated with the Globe Clothiers, where he remained until July, 1920.  Since that time Mr. Rood has been connected with the Prospect Clothiers at 195 Prospect Street.
     In 1915 Mr. Rood was united in marriage with Miss Dora Estberg, a native of Ashtabula, and the daughter of P. N. and Anna Estberg, residents of Ashtabula.  To Mr. and Mrs. Rood have been born two daughters:  June and Shirley.
     Mr. Rood
is a member of the First Baptist Church and is widely known as an alert young business man.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 983
  D. A. ROSS

Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 893

  F. A. ROWE is a veteran of the Civil War and an honored pioneer of Ashtabula County.  He was born in Pennsylvania, Apr. 29, 1833, and is the son of Henry and Helen (Smith) Rowe.
     Henry Rowe, deceased, was a native of New York and an early settler of Pennsylvania.  He later lived in Michigan aid then in Ashtabula County, where he engaged in general farming.  He was a Republican and a member of the Methodist Church.  There were four children in the Rowe family, as follows:  William, deceased; F. A., the subject of this sketch; James, died in infancy; and David, retired, lives at Corry, Pa.
     F. A. Rowe was reared and educated in Warren County, Pa., and always followed farming, specializing in truck gardening.  He settled in Ashtabula County in 1860, where he has since resided.  During the Civil War Mr. Rowe served with Company G, 105th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. 
     On Dec. 25, 1855, Mr. Rowe was united in marriage with Miss Valedia Smith, a native of Ashtabula County, Ohio, born Feb. 20, 1835, and the daughter of Henry and Caroline (Lot) SmithMrs. Rowe died Jan. 20, 1917.  There were six children in her family, as follows:  Abigail, married Horace Hatch,  both deceased; Mary, married Milford Shepard, both deceased; Mrs. Rowe; Morrison, deceased; Caroline, married William Porter, both deceased; and one child died in infancy.  To F. A. and Veledia (Smith) Rowe were born two children: Mabel, married on June 9, 1887, to Lorenzo Loomis, and they live retired at East Conneaut, and have three children: Francis, a civil engineer, lives at Cleveland, Ohio; Mildred, married on Nov. 1, 1917, to Homer H. Holdson; and Stanley, a farmer, lives in Conneaut Township.  Mr. Rowe's second child is Helen, who was married to E. F. Hammond, and they live in California and have two children, Ruth and Ronald.  Mr. Rowe has six great grandchildren:  Barbara and Albert Loomis; Margaret and Joyce Holdson; and Glenn and Grace Loomis.
     Mr. Rowe
is a Republican and an active member of the Methodist Church.  He is favorably known throughout the community where he has spent so many years and has many friends.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 696
  C. N. ROYCE - The lumber industry is well represented in Jefferson, Ohio, by the subject of this sketch, who is largely engaged in the manufacture of all building material, and who by his energetic efforts has done much to advance the interests of the city and county.
     Mr. Royce, was born in Lenox township, Ashtabula county, Ohio, May 2, 1848, son of Jasper and Malinda (Chapin) Royce, natives of Connecticut and Massachusetts, respectively.  His father removed with his first wife from New Jersey to Ohio about 1835, when that State was wild and unsettled, Indians being plentiful and much game abounding.  He settled in the woodland of Lenox township, Ashtabula county, where he was deprived by death of his first wife.  Some time afterward he married the mother of the subject of this sketch, who came with her parents to Ashtabula county in the '30s.
     C. N. Royce was reared on a farm and received a common-school education.  When sixteen years of age he had the misfortune to lose his mother, and at the age of nineteen was doubly bereft of his father.  Thus early deprived of parental care and guidance he soon learned to shift for himself, learning those lessons of self-reliance and perseverance which have since been of such incalculable benefit and have aided in placing him in his present prosperous and honorable position.  He was married Jan. 12, 1869, to Miss Rildie E. Dodge, daughter of Edward R. and Harriet A. (Groves) Dodge.  The father died in 1885; the mother lives with her daughter.  They were natives of New York and Ohio, respectively, and they have two daughters, Amy A. and Nellie.  After marriage, Mr. Royce and his wife settled in Lenox township on a farm, which he industriously improved until 1882, making it one of the best farms in the county and greatly enhancing its value.  In 1885, he removed to Jefferson, where for the last few years he has been extensively engaged in the lumber business, operating both a saw and planing mill, the former with a daily output of 8,000 feet and the latter 3,000.  He handles all kinds of building material and for the last few years has dealt largely in carriages, from which varied enterprises he derives a profitable income, and is the means of furnishing employment to a large number of people, and has done much toward advancing the interests of the community.
     In politics he affiliates with the Republican party.  He is a worthy member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Ensign Lodge No. 400.  As a Business man he is upright and energetic, and as a citizen is progressive and public spirited, enjoying to a high degree the confidence and esteem of his fellow man.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 490

May A. Ruggles
MAY A. RUGGLES is the daughter of Joseph E. and Charlotte Ruggles, was born in Jefferson, Ohio, and was the next to the youngest of four children.
     Miss Ruggles was graduated from Jefferson High School, also from Business College in Cleveland, after which she entered the treasurer's office as clerk.  She was made deputy treasurer under County Treasurer R. E. Harper.
    
On Aug. 8, 1922, she was nominated for county treasurer on the Republican ticket and elected to the office of county treasurer the following November, being the first woman to hold county office in Ashtabula County.
     On Sept. 1, 1923, she assumed the duties of county treasurer and is now serving her second year.  On Aug. 12, 1924, she was nominated for second term.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 688
  WILLIAM W. RUSSELL, stationary engineer with the Pittsburgh & Conneaut Dock Company, is among Conneaut's highly esteemed and well known citizens.  He was born in Mercer County, Pa., Oct. 28, 1865, and is the son of Joshua and Mary Jane (Fobes) Russell.
     Joshua Russell was a native of Mercer County, Pa., and his wife was born in Jackson, Mich.  They were early settlers of Ashtabula County, where Mr. Russell engaged in general farming and stock raising.  He died in 1906 and his wife died in 1881.  They were early settlers of Ashtabula County, where Mr. Russell engaged in general farming and stocking raising.  He died in 1906 and his wife died in 1881.  they were the parents of four children, as follows:  William W., the subject of this sketch; Flora, deceased; Andrew, deceased; and Lizzie, also deceased.
     William W. Russell was reared and educated in Pennsylvania and in early life was a farmer.  On Dec. 31, 1900, he came to Conneaut and was employed as a fireman by the Nickel Plate Railroad.  After one year he entered the employ of the Harper Norton Brick Company as stationary engineer, and in 1903 became connected with the Pittsburgh and Conneaut Dock Company in the same capacity.  The Russell residence is located at 624 Buffalo Street.
     On Nov. 25, 1885, Mr. Russell was married to Miss Anna M. Hagan, a native of Pennsylvania, born Aug. 5, 1860.  To this union have been born three children:  Harry W., deceased; William Francis lives at Conneaut, married Mildred Lawrence, and they have two children, Billy, born Dec. 21, 1917, and died Apr. 26, 1919, and Betty Jane, born June 10, 1920; and Ida L., married Otis Cooney and they have one child, Harry Russell, lives in Conneaut.
     Mr. Russell is a member of hte Independent Order of Odd Fellows and has many friends and acquaintances in Ashtabula County.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page
  NESTOR RYTIA, a successful farmer and stockman of Conneaut Township and the owner of 78 acres of well improved land, is a native of Finland.  He was born May 4, 1880, and is the son of Davie and Maude Rytia.
     Davie Rytia
is deceased, as is also his wife.  They spent their entire lives in Finland and had two children: John, lives in Minnesota; and Nestor, the subject of this sketch.
     Nestor Rytia spent his boyhood in his native land and received his education there.  In 1903 he came to the United States and settled in Minnesota, where he remained until 1919, at which time he removed to Ashtabula County, and purchased his present farm in Conneaut Township.  Mr. Rytia raises grain and is also prominent as a stockman.
     On June 30, 1901, Mr. Rytia was married to Miss Olga Speikberg, a native of Finland, born Dec. 21, 1879, and the daughter of William and Josephine Speikberg, both of whom are deceased.  Mrs. Rytia has the following brothers and sisters: Victor, lives in Minnesota; and John, Ida, Helia and Helma, all living in Finland.  To Nestor and Olga (Speikberg) Rytia two sons were born: Walter, born in 1904; and Arne, born in 1909.
     Mr. Rytia is a Republican and a member of the Lutheran Church.
Source:  History of Ashtabula County, Ohio by Moina W. Large - Vol. I - 1924 ~ Page 907
NOTES:

 

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