OHIO GENEALOGY EXPRESS

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Belmont County, Ohio
History & Genealogy

BIOGRAPHIES
(Transcribed by Sharon Wick)

Source: 
Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio
and Representative Citizens.
Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois -
1903
 

	J. W. GARBER, secretary and treasurer of the Enameled Steel Tile Company, of Bellaire, Ohio, has long been known in Belmont County for his efficient service in connection with railroad work. He was born and reared at Cambridge, Ohio, and his first work was done in the transportation and traffic departments of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. In 1886 he moved to Bellaire and accepted the position of night clerk, his close attention to business and his reliability promoting him rapidly through all the desks to that of chief clerk, cashier and agent.      In 1899 Mr. Garber was called to Martin's Ferry with the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railway, and he built up business at that point in the same capable manner that had made his work so satisfactory previously. When this road was consolidated with the Baltimore & Ohio our subject was proffered a responsible position at Uniontown. Pennsylvania, on the main line, but he declined and severed his relations on account of his pleasant home and many friends being in Bellaire. The enterprise with which  Mr. Garber is so prominently associated is a comparatively new one in Bellaire, organized in June, 1902, by J. W. Garber, James F. DuBois, William H. Landkrohn, W. S. Heatherington and James F. Anderson, incorporators. The officers of the company are men of standing and worth in the community, namely: James F. DuBois. president: E. J. A. Drennen, of Martin's Ferry, vice-president: J. W. Garber. secretary and treasurer; William H. Landkrohn, manager of the factory and the practical man of the plant. This business will be conducted for the manufacture of enameled steel tile, to take the place of the ordinary clay tile now in general use, and the number of beautiful designs thus made possible is almost unlimited. This is to be used for ceilings, wainscoting, hearths, mantels, etc. The ceiling tile will be manufactured 16 inches square and the manner of fastening together has been patented, and a wide business held is open in this line alone. It is claimed for this tile that it is non-crazing, fully as serviceable as the old tile and accepts a much more beautiful finish. The substantial building located between 27th and 28th and Water streets, known as the "old tobacco warehouse," has been purchased by the company and fitted with appropriate machinery, and work will probably be commenced in the fall of 1902. Many orders have already been received for their product. Mr. Garber was one of the promoters of this company, and the enterprise bids fair to become one of Bellaire's successful industries. (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903)
	DR. EPHRAIM GASTON - See Chapter XIII (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 144
	HON. ISAAC H. GASTON, ex-judge of the Probate Court of Belmont County, Ohio, is not only a distinguished member of the bar, but also a leading and public-spirited citizen of St. Clairsville, Ohio, where his home is the center of a pleasant social and professional circle. The Gaston family is a long established one in Belmont County, where it located as early as 1800. Dr. Alexander Gaston, the great-grandfather of Judge Gaston, and a native of Pennsylvania, came at that time to a farm situated in the vicinity of St. Clairsville, and died in 1825 at Morristown, Ohio. His son, Dr. Ephraim Gaston, was for the 40 years succeeding 1828 one of the most distinguished physicians of Belmont County. The parents of Judge Gaston were Samuel W. and Margaret F. (Hazlett) Gaston. Samuel W. Gaston was born in Morristown, in 1831. At an early age he engaged in teaching and also in the study of the law. In 1855 he located in St. Clairsville for practice. In 1856, he was elected clerk of the county courts, became well known in political life, and died in 1862. He married Margaret F. Hazlett, of Morristown, in 1857.      The birth of Judge Isaac H. Gaston took place July 6, 1858, in St. Clairsville. He attended the schools of Morristown, entered Washington and Jefferson College in 1876, and was graduated in the class of 1879. Soon afterward he began to study in the law office of the late Hon. L. Danford, and was admitted to the bar in 1882. His ability and thorough and complete knowledge of law made his election as judge of the Probate Court, in 1884, a very satisfactory selection to all parties, and his administration of the office was such as to insure a re-election in 1887. Since his retirement from the bench. Judge Gaston has given his attention to the practice of his profession in St. Clairsville and the vicinity, where he is widely and favorably known. The Judge is in active affiliation with the Republican party, of which he is considered a useful and influential member. The subject of this sketch is a member of the Masonic order, having been made a Mason in Tonic Lodge, No. 438, F. & A. M. He is also a member of St. Clairsville Chapter, No. T7, R. A. M.; Belmont Council, No. 54, R. & S. M.; Hope Commandery, No. 26, K. T.; Syrian Temple. A. A. O. N. M. S.; and Ohio Consistory, S. P. R. S.
	JOSEPH GIBBONS, one of the oldest and most esteemed citizens of Belmont County, whose years but illustrate his wonderful vitality, resides on his fine farm in Warren township, near Barnesville, and is the center of a devoted family circle.      Few venerable citizens remain whose births antedate the War of 1812, but Mr. Gibbons is one of these, his birth taking place on Sept. 27, 1811, when the chief magistrate of this great country was James Madison.  He has been generations come and go, and still retains his active interest in general affairs and bears his 91 years with the the ease of a man in middle age.  His parents were Homer and Martha (South) Gibbons, natives of Virginia and New Jersey, respectively, the former of whom left his native State in early life and settled in Jefferson County, Ohio.  His wife came to this State in 1800, and her parents also settled in Jefferson County.  They became the parents of these children: John, Mary, Homer, Enoch, Jesse, James and Sarah, deceased,  while the living ones are: Joseph, Robert, Samuel B., William and Borden.      Joseph Gibbons, was born in Belmont County, on his father's farm, where he spent his early days, and attended the district schools in his locality.  He grew to manhood engaged in agricultural pursuits, and, having been industrious and provident, had accumulated a considerable sum of money by the time he was ready to establish a home of his own.  In 1836 he was united in marriage with Penina Williams, daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Arnold) Williams, who were natives of South Carolina, settling in Ohio about 1800.  Mrs. Gibbons was born in 1817 and after a life of 71 years, filled with good deeds and kind acts, she passed out in life on Jan. 16, 1888.  The children born to this happy marriage were the following:  Elam, born Oct. 23, 1838; Eli W., born June 27, 1840; Edmund, born July 28, 1842; Samuel and Homer, twins, born in 1844; Sarah, born June 13, 1845, died July 10, 1846; James S. and Mary H., twins, born Mar. 19, 1847; Joseph B., born Feb. 6, 1850; Anna and Martha, twins, born June 26, 1852; Elizabeth, born Sept. 11, 1854; Lavina H., born Aug. 25, 1860; and Edward V. born Apr. 15, 1862.      Mr. Gibbons for some years has lived free from all business care, although quite capable of actively managing his former interests.   Through life he has been an enterprising man and at all times has testified his willingness to assist in the developing of his county.  His estimable character and long and useful life have attached many friends to him, who take pride in his vigor, in spite of his advanced age.  They hope he may be spared yet many years to show the results of a life which has been devoted to the honest accumulation of means and to the welfare of his family and neighborhood.  Mr. Gibbons is a member of the Society of Friends. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 634
	JAMES T. GIFFEN, one of the progressive farmers of Richland township, Belmont County, Ohio, is much interested in his profession and keeps his home place in order with care and exactness which characterizes all his actions. He is a son of Morrison and Margaret (Taggart) Giffen, and was born on his farm in 1849. Our subject's father first saw the light of day in Ohio County. (West) Virginia, in 1817,  and for many years he continued to reside  there, busily employed as an agriculturist. In the year 1825 he removed, however, to Colerain township, Belmont County, where : he spent a number of years and lived peacefully until 1843, when he went to Richland township. The latter place continued to be his home until 1885, when he was taken away by death. He chose for the companion of his life Margaret Taggart, a daughter of James and Catherine (Stitt) Taggart, and their marriage was duly solemnized. Mrs. Giffen was born in 1815 in Richland township, and died in 1901. She was the mother of six children, two of whom I are now deceased, and the names are as follows: Mary K.; Elizabeth J., whose death occurred in 1873; Robert Emmet; James T., our worthy subject; Sarah S., and John K., who is a missionary and was sent to Egypt in 1881, and to the Soudan in 1901, the latter place being his residence at the present time, where he works in the interest of the United Presbyterian Church. Mary K. married William N. Stillwell and her death took place in 1879. Robert Emmet is a farmer living two and a half miles northeast of St. Clairsville. where he owns 153 acres of land. He was united in marriage with Anna M. Bentley in 1878, and they have nine children, namely: John M., Bruce B., Elizabeth E., Sarah S., Margaret T., James K., Grace, Emma, and Maud.  Sarah S. makes her home with Robert E. Our subject's father and mother were United Presbyterians in their religious worship. and in this faith the family was reared.      In politics Mr. Giffen was a Democrat of firm opinions.      In 1879 the ceremony was performed which made Mr. Giffen and Ella Reid man and wife. Mrs. Giffen is the daughter of Edward and Mary Reid, and was born in August, 1856, on Wheeling Island, near Wheeling. This union was blessed with four children, who are as follows: Morrison R., deceased; Mary E., Jean M., and Jeannette L.   Mary E. was born December, 1884?, and graduated with the class of 1901 at St. Clairsville High School. She is now living at home. Jean M. and Jeannette L. are twins and were born April, 1891. The family are members and workers in the United Presbyterian Church, and their home surroundings are of a most pleasant nature.      Politically our subject belongs to the Democratic party, but does not hold office. He spends the greater part of his time on his farm, which consists of IT6 acres and is located two miles north of St. Clairsville. (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903) (See Contributor's note below**)
	ROBERT EMMET GIFFEN, who is now serving his second term as trustee of Richland township, Belmont County, Ohio. is industriously following the pursuits of agriculture on his farm two and a half miles northeast of St. Clairsville. where he operates a dairy in addition to the general work of his vocation. Our subject is a son of Morrison and Margaret (Taggart) Giffen, and his birth occurred in 1847 in Richland township, Belmont County.      Morrison Giffen chose general farming for his life occupation, and was successful and prosperous in his career, continuing as a farmer until the termination of his life in 1885. He was a native of Ohio County, (West) Virginia, and was born in the year 1817. He remained in Ohio County until 1825, the date of his removal to Belmont County Ohio, where he took up his residence in Colerain township, and there spent many years of his life. In 1843 he left his place there, however, and became one of the residents of Richland township, where he spent the closing years of his life. Politically he was a member of the Democratic party, and took a decided interest in all local affairs. Both he and his beloved wife were members of the United Presbyterian Church, and were held in high esteem by all who knew them. Mrs. Giffen was Margaret Taggart before her marriage and was a daughter of James and Catherine (Stitt) Taggart. She was born in 1815, a native of Richland township, and her demise occurred in 1901. The children of this union were six in number and the names are as follows: Mary K., Elizabeth J., Robert E., our subject; James T., Sarah S., and John K. The eldest child, Mary K., became the wife of William N. Stillwell, but died in 1879. Elizabeth J. departed this life in 1874. James T. makes his home in Richland township. Sarah lives with our subject. John K. became a missionary, was sent first to Egypt in 1881, and in 1901 to the Soudan, where he is still working in the interests of the United Presbyterian Church.      The marriage of Robert E. Giffen took place in 1873, when he was united with Anna M. Bentley. a daughter of Solomon and Ellen (Thompson) Bentley, who was born in 1851, and was also a native of Richland township. Nine children have been born to this union, namely: John M., Bruce B., Elizabeth E., Sarah S., Margaret T., James K., Grace, Emma, and Maud. The family are devoted in their religious duties to the United Presbyterian Church.      In political affairs Mr. Giffen is a Prohibitionist, but has served the Democratic party well as township trustee; he has also been school director for some time, and gave evidence of sagacity and discretion in the fulfillment of his duties in that office. The farm which he possesses and manages with such good results consists of 153 acres of fine land; his specialty is the dairy, and with his fine Jersey cows he is enabled to make a large amount of butter, which he furnishes for the Wheeling market. His life is exceedingly busy, all his time being taken in attending to his duties as farmer. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 386
	W. W. GIFFEN, one of the most successful farmers of Mead township, Belmont County, owns and occupies a fine farm in the vicinity of Businessburg, the location of his spacious brick residence being on a high hill and commanding and extended view over miles of country.      W. W. Giffen was born in Monroe County, Ohio, and he is a son of John and Nancy (Adams) Giffen, who were married in Belmont County, although the former was born in Scotland in 1819, and the latter, in Pennsylvania, in 1828.  Both parents are beloved and honored members of their son's household.      John Giffen was a son of William and Isabel (Reed) Giffen, who emigrated from Scotland to America, in 1820, settling first in Pennsylvania, but in the following spring pushing on into Belmont County, Ohio, where they located on McMechen's Creek.  Later they removed to Pleasant Hill.  In the spring of 1846 their son, John Giffen, removed to Monroe County, and remained there until 1866, when he returned to Belmont County and purchased the farm where he resides with his son.  This was known as the William Warren farm, and the large and substantial residence was erected by William Warren.  Here John Giffen most successfully pursued an agricultural life, accumulated a competency and for a number of years has lived a retired life.  During many years he was prominently identified with public affairs in the township, most efficiently filled many of the local offices, and on many occasions served as trustee.  He is known as a man of the highest integrity and one whose word needs no legal measure to make it binding.  A family of 10 children was born to John and Nancy (Adams) Giffen, their names being as follows:  Isabel, wife of David Johnson, a farmer living near St. Clairsville; W. W., of this sketch, who is unmarried; James A., a resident of Licking County, Ohio, who married Jane Cooke, and has these children, - Lawrence, Otto, Wilma, Clara, Annie, Sarah and Jennie; John A., of Licking County, who is unmarried; Sarah J., who died some years ago; Orleanna, who resides at home; Letitia, who married Joseph Main, of Delaware County, Ohio, and has one child, - Nancy Lavella; Matthew, who is unmarried, is a resident of Morrow County; Archie, who is a resident of Delaware County, married Martha Main, and has three children, - Lloyd, Alta and Alma (twins); and Elizabeth, who died in 1882.      Our subject is an experience, careful, practical farmer, and for a considerable period he has given much attention to the breeding of high grade stock, thoroughbred cattle and sheep, his healthy flocks of National Delaine sheep and herds of sleek Durham cattle testifying to his gratifying success.  In politics, Mr. Giffen, is identified with the Democratic party.  The family belongs to the United Presbyterian Church and attend services at Pleasant Hill.  This family is very well known through Belmont County, where they have attained prominence in agricultural circles and are socially representative.  The beautiful old home is often the scene of family reunions, the aged parents being the center of the group, happy in the knowledge that their children have grown to be not only a credit to them, but also to the county. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 763
	WILLIAM A. GIFFEN, a prominent farmer of Belmont County, Ohio, who owns and operates one of the large and productive farms of Colerain township, near St. Clairsville, was born not far from Martin's Ferry, in this county, on Glenn's Run, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Kerr) Giffen, the former of whom was a native of Ohio County, West Virginia, and the latter of Belmont County.      In 1825 the parents of Samuel Giffen settled on the farm now owned by our subject, William A. Giffen, all of this land probably being underlaid with rich coal veins.  Samuel resided at Glenn's Run for 15 years, but in 1861 located on this property, where he immediately began improvements, erecting a comfortable residence and building a commodious barn.  He was a straightforward, public-spirited citizen, actively in sympathy with the Republican party, and prominent in the religious and educational advancement of the county.  He was an elder in the United Presbyterian Church and reared his family in that faith.  Samuel Giffen was born June 6, 1810,and died Oct. 5, 1884, his wife being some years younger, born on Nov. 1, 1823, and died on Jan. 27, 1898, very generally regretted on account of her active interest in church work and her kindness to neighbors and devotion to family and friends.  She belong to one of the old and honorable families of the county,  Robert and Sarah (Taggart) Kerr being her parents, the former of whom came to America from Scotland, and the latter, born in 1802, from Ireland.      On the paternal side, Grandfather John Giffen, with his wife, Elizabeth (Morrison) Giffen, with his ten children, also, came to Belmont County in 1825, from Ohio County, (West) Virginia.  These children were: Mary, Mrs. David Coats, born July 17, 1799; Robert, born Nov. 28, 1801, was county recorder of Belmont County, and died unmarried; William, born Mar. 21, 1804, married, first, a Miss Graham, and, second, Mary Morrison; John, born Feb. 28, 1806; Joseph, born Mar. 1, 1808; Samuel,  born June 6, 1810; Elizabeth, Mrs. John Denham, was born Apr. 2, 1813, and is the last survivor of the family; Jane, born May 8, 1815, was Mrs. James Frazier; Morrison, born Sept. 22, 1817; and Sarah A., born Feb. 5, 1820, married William Grimes, and both have long since passed away.  The maternal family was also large and became well known through the county, the eldest of the family being the mother of our subject; the others as follows:  James Kerr, born in 1824, resides at MArtin's Ferry; Catherine married John Porterfield, and both are deceased; Sarah J. married Samuel Thompson and resides in St. Clairsville; Robert, deceased, was a farmer in this county; Isaac and Peter, twins, are both deceased; Peter (2) studied for the ministry but enlisted in the army in the Civil War, and died while on a furlough from disease contracted in the service; Louisa, died at the age of five years; and Mary, born July 17, 1844, died Dec. 9, 1898.  This passed away members of two prominent families of the county, but they left behind them records of worthy lives and representatives who inherited their most admirable traits of character.      A family of 12 children was born to Samuel and Margaret Giffen, namely: John, Sarah E., Robert K., Isaac, James P., William A., Morrison E., Samuel R., Mary L., Laura, James, and Margaret B.  John Giffen is a distinguished clergyman of the United Presbyterian Church.  He graduated at Westminster College in 1871, and at Allegheny Seminary in 1875, and immediately accepted work in the missionary field in Egypt, and has been located at various points, during the greater part of the time being assistant at the church at Cairo.  There he has been instructor in Associate College and Cairo Theological Seminary, and is a man of great learning.  His first marriage was a Mary Galoway, of Due West, South Carolina, who died in October, 1881.  His second marriage was to Elizabeth Newlin, in 1883.  Sarah E. married William Hinkle, a farmer a fruit grower, and they live near Cameron, West Virginia.  Robert K. is a traveling salesman.  He first married Emma Brown, and later her sister Ella, and resides in Wheeling.  Isaac married Margaret Paxton, now decreased, and resides on a farm near Martin's Ferry.  Jane C. died at the age of 20 months.  Morrison E. graduated from Muskingum College in the class of 1886, and from Allegheny Seminary in the spring of 1889, and in the fall of the latter year went as a missionary to Egypt, where he has since been occupied, having charge of the distribution of books and village work as minister and missionary.  He married Miss Franc Martin in 1886.  Samuel R., born in 1860, was a farmer, and died Feb. 2, 1900.  James P. is a graduate of Muskingum College of 1891, and of Xenia Theological Seminary of 1894, and is a minister of the United Presbyterian Church, located at Edgerton, Kansas.  He married Libbia Sleeth.  All of the daughters were also given collegiate advantages.      William A. Giffen is a graduate of Muskingum College, and has been identified with agricultural interests during the greater part of his life.  After the death of his father, he attended to the setting of the estate, and has charge of the home farm, consisting of about 300 acres, the greater part of which is still undivided.  His personal estate comprises 200 acres or more, all of which is very valuable, both for farming purposes and also for its coal deposits.      Mr. Giffen is an active Republican and a substantial and representative citizen.  Like his father, he has ever been held in high esteem in Colerain township. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 665
	HUGH GIFFIN Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 460
	JOHN GIFFIN Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 454
	ROBERT GIFFIN Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 591
	GEORGE GILLESPIE, a well-known citizen of York township, Belmont County, Ohio, is a native of this township, the date of his birth being 1841.  He is a son of Jacob and Mary E. (Pyles) Gillespie, and grandson of David Gillespie.      David Gillespie was born in America, but was of Irish parentage.  He was at the Wheeling block-house, contemporary with the Zane family.  Upon coming to York township, Belmont County, Ohio, he took up land from the government at Dover, now owned and occupied by Samuel Gillaspie.  His death occurred before the breaking out of the Civil War.  His children were John, Jacob, Davis, Nancy, Lydia, Barbara, and Elizabeth all of whom are now deceased.      Jacob Gillespie was born in York township in 1806 and died in 1895.  He resided in York township all his life, a part of the time being located in the northern part of the township.  He married Mary E. Pyles, who was born in York township and died about 1847.  To them were born the following children:  Mary Elizabeth, wife of James Giffen, living at Glencoe; Robert G. who resides at Waverly, Coffey County, Kansas; Ebenezer, who served in Company F, 52nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., was killed in the battle of Chickamauga; Lydia, deceased, was the wife of Alexander Graham, of Washington township; George, Subject of this sketch; Sarah, wife of Noah B. Carlle, resides near St. Clairsville, in Richland township, and Maria Louise, who died about 1847.      George Gillespie was reared at the home of his grandparents in York township, until he was 12 years of age, since which time he has lived in York township.  He came to his present home about 1891, it being the old James A. Giffen farm in section 22, consisting of 172 acres.  He is engaged in general farming and has a well improved farm.  He is a man of high character, deeply interested in all relating to the general welfare of the township and county, and stands high in the esteem of his fellow citizens.       Mr. Gillespie was united in marriage with Mary E. Giffen, who was born in York township, and is a daughter of John G. Given, and to them were born nine children, as follows: Alice, who lives at home; Sarah Ellen, wife of Joseph Penn, of Belmont, Belmont County; Lena B., wife of Charles E. Ruble residing in Bellaire, Ohio; Albert A., of Moundsville, West Virginia; Lawrence, a machinist by trade, located in California; Edison, who is also located in California; Vernon B., who lives at home; Frank E., who is also at home, and Mary J.  Politically Mr. Gillespie is independent, and is at present a trustee of York township, to which office he was elected in the spring of 1901 on the Democratic ticket.  In religious views he is a member of the Christian Church. (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903)
	THOMAS and WILLIAM CALVIN GILLESPIE, two of the most enterprising and wealthy agriculturists of Belmont County, now residing on a large and attractive farm in Wheeling township, are there by intelligence and skillful management carrying on a most successful industry. Making a specialty of raising sheep and thoroughbred cattle, they have in these lines met with the most gratifying results. Both were born on the farm next to the one on which they now reside, Thomas, November 25, 1847, and William Calvin, February 13, 1852. They are of Scotch-Irish descent and the sons of Robert and Eleanor (Barnes) Gillespie.      Thomas Gillespie, grandfather of William, was born in the north of Ireland in June. 1781. At an early date he came to America and settled in Pennsylvania. Later, however, he came to Ohio, and purchasing a 90-acre farm in Wheeling township, remained there for the rest of his life. He died September 20, 1849. In 1803, while living in Pennsylvania, he married Jane Love, and they had eight children.—George, who lived near Woodsfield, in Monroe County, Ohio, and died there in 1880, married Louisa Henderson and they had nine children, six sons and three daughters. Belle, who died in 1887, married Thomas McFarland, a resident of Monroe County, Ohio, and they had seven children. Maria married James Ensley, who resides near Keene, in Coshocton County, Ohio, and they had six children. She died in 1890. Peggy (Margaret) married Thomas Culbertson, and resided in Guernsey County, near Washington, Ohio. They had three children. She is now deceased. John lived in Shepherdstown and died there in 1892. Jane, deceased, resided near Caldwell, in Noble County, Ohio, and was the wife of James Amos; they had four children. Louisa married William Barr and lived near Bellefontaine, in Logan County. Thomas married Belle Haverfield and resided in Jacobsburg; Belmont County, where he died in 1895. They had four children.      Robert Gillespie, father of William Calvin, was born on the Belmont County homestead in January, 1821. Following in the footsteps of his father, upon reaching manhood; he made farming the business of his life, carrying on the industry in Belmont County. He married Eleanor Barnes, daughter of Peter Barnes, of Maryland. To Mr. and Mrs. Gillespie were born have children. Of these. Joseph, born May 12, 1859, died of diphtheria, then an epidemic in the county. November 12, 1861. at the age of 12 years. John L., born November 25, 1854, a farmer and stock raiser near Harrisville, Ohio. He married Louisa Green of Shepherdstown. daughter of John Green, and they have five children. Nancy J., born August 17, 1855, married George Lyle, a farmer and stock raiser of Harrison County, Ohio, residing near New Athens. They have six children.      Thomas and William Calvin Gillespie were both reared in Belmont County, and in the common schools of their neighborhood procured their education. Here by strict attention to business they became well grounded in the rudiments, and William, upon leaving school, was enabled to follow teaching. He was very successful in his professional work, and filled positions in Wheeling and Richland townships for a period of 12 years. Later the two brothers turned their attention to agriculture, carrying on the farm which they now possess and which was at one time owned by their grandfather immediately after his arrival from Pennsylvania. Here they have erected new buildings, and from time to time made other marked improvements. Besides this homestead, they own another large farm in the township where they now reside. Together the places embrace 312 acres, largely under cultivation, which the brothers are enabled to work to good advantage, engaging extensively in general farming. They make & specialty of Shorthorn cattle. Jerseys, Red and Poland China hogs, and Blacktop, Delaine. or Pennsylvania sheep.  Raising sheep they have found especially profitable, and they now own about 400.      Thomas Gillespie has never married, but resides with his brother. March 7, 1891, William Calvin married Lizzie Williams. They have, however, no children. The two brothers have exhibited to a remarkable degree shrewd business management and much practical ability in their farming, and have amassed considerable property. They are well known throughout the county and are highly esteemed. In national affairs they vote the Democratic ticket: in State politics they are liberal. The early Gillespies were Swedenborgians: the present generation are old school Presbyterians. (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903)
	JAMES C. GRAY, a prominent attorney and one of the active and successful business men of Martin's Ferry, Belmont County, Ohio, was born in Belmont County on June 20, 1851, a son of James W. and Alison (Thorburn) Gray, the former of whom was a native of Belmont County, and the latter of Scotland.      James W. Gray, the father of the subject of this biography, was one of the leading business men of the Eastern Ohio Valley.  In 1865 he bought a one-half interest in the William Wiley foundry and machine works, and continued to operate in that connection until he with others bought the other half interest and the firm continued until his retirement, in 1872, as the James W. Gray Company, Mr. Gray being almost sole owner.  The castings made at this foundry gained favor over a wide territory, were used in Pittsburg, Wheeling and Cincinnati.  During the Civil War they made shot, shells and cannon balls for the Union Army.  It was one of the pioneer industries of the section and under the vigorous control of Mr. Gray proved a substantial financial success.      For a number of years James W. Gray was an elder in the United Presbyterian Church.  He was an Abolitionist in political sentiment and desired the prosecution of the war to its honorable end.  His death occurred on June 23, 1887, in his 67th year.  He was sincerely mourned for he was known to be an upright man and estimable citizen.  The mother of our subject was born July 21, 1824, a daughter of Alexander Thorburn, who came from Scotland in the early days of the century passed, and settled at Scotch Ridge, Belmont County, but after a number of years moved to near Quincy, Illinois, where he died.  His wife passed away Nov. 6, 1858, in this county.  The children born to James W. Gray and his wife were four in number, viz.:  John A., who is a professor in Muskingum College; James C., who is our subject; Ellen, who resides with her brother just mentioned; and Sarah, who has charge of the art department at Muskingum College.      The early education of James C. Gray was obtained in Martin's Ferry, and later he completed his education at Muskingum College, graduating with the degree of B. L.  He followed this with a law course at Ann Arbor, Michigan, graduating there in the class of 1880.  His practice was begun at Martin's Ferry where he has since continued.  He has served the city in several responsible positions, although his inclinations are not in the direction of political honor.  His leading ambition is to rank well in his profession.  For four years he served the city as solicitor, has been local attorney for several railroads.  He created a favorable impression and a degree of prominence for himself in the famous case of the collision on the Ohio River between the "John Lomas"  and the steamer "Scioto," on July 4, 1882.  He was the senior counsel on the "Lomas" side.  During the campaigns of 1896 and 1900 he was active in working for the Republican candidates in the national campaigns.  While he seeks no office for himself, he is ever ready to help his friends and uphold the principles of his chosen party.  Both of his parents were devoted members of the Presbyterian Church, and he has found his religious home within that body for the past 18 years, and has been the director of the choir in the Martin's Ferry church.      On Dec. 5, 1883, Mr. Gray was united in marriage with Clara Bird, a native of Easton, Pennsylvania, born June 20, 1861, a daughter of Joseph Bird, who was an English ironmaster that came to Belmont County in 1879.  Mrs. Gray died on Mar. 21, 1902, deeply lamented by all who knew her.  She was devoted to the church, was a member of the Woman's Club at Wheeling, an exceedingly popular personage in social circles and a blessing to her home and family.  The three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gray were:  Calvin Bird, taking an electrical course at the American Tin Plate company's Works; James Paul; and William Shakspeare, named for the immortal bard on account of a relationship existing through his maternal grandparents.  Mr. Gray as noted above has made an enviable record as a lawyer and is equally fortunate in possessing the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens who recognize in him an honest, upright and public-spirited man. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 604
	GEORGE W. GREEN, a prosperous farmer of York township, Belmont County, of which he is a native, was born June 23, 1835, and is a son of Robert B. and Mary T. (Trackler) Green.      Robert B. Green was born in New York State January 27, 1792, and moved with his father, Asher Green first to Moundsville, West Virginia, about 1802, and in 1815 to Belmont County, buying a tract of land at the mouth of Cat’s Run, which had been entered by George Lemley, and is located in section 14.  Mr. Green had a large tract of land, consisting of 420 acres, and engaged in general farming.  He also traded between his place and New Orleans, making his first trip on a flat boat in 1805, returning home on foot.  He frequently made the return trip by boat to New York.  He resided on the home farm until his death September 18, 1869.  He was at one time a commissioner of Belmont County, and assisted in building the wooden bridge across Captina Creek, in the “forties.”  He married Mary T. Trackler, who was born in Shenandoah County, (West) Virginia, February 6, 1799, and died in Belmont County, April 27, 1874.  She came to Gallia County, Ohio, about 1806, and for years carded the wool and made clothing for the family.  Her father, who was of German descent, came by wagon down the Kanawha River and settled upon 400 acres of land along the Ohio River.  To Mr. and Mrs. Green were born the following children: Philip T., born May 21, 1819, and died April 12, 1844; Albert G., born June 30, 1821, who lived on a portion of the old homestead until his death; Elizabeth, born April 11, 1823, died April 7, 1826; Loman H., born February 3, 1825, who is deceased; Barbara T., born August 21, 1827, who married John M. Robb and resides on a part of the old home place; Permelia, born in June, 1830, now deceased, first married a Mr. Ring, and later John Owens; Mary, born January 7, 1832, married William Abrams, who survives her and resides in Allegheny City, being a steamboat pilot: George W., subject of this biography, and John C., who was born June 8, 1841, and died September 21, 1842.      George W. Green was reared on the home farm in York township and for three or four years clerked in the store of Dorsey & Potts, also teaching school for a time.  From May 1, 1864, to Sept. 31, 1864, he served with the rank of 2nd lieutenant in Company C, 170th Reg., Ohio National Guard, with Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley.  Upon his return from war he served one year as clerk in the store, and then returned to the farm to care for his parents in their declining years.  He has a very fine farm, on which he built a comfortable home and made many other improvements, and follows general farming.      January 1, 1869, Mr. Green was joined in marriage with Jane Greenlee, who was born on McMechen's Creek January 23, 1845, and is a daughter of Alexander Greenlee,  her mother being a Brice.  She was reared on McMechen's Creek and moved to York township when her father purchased the Lemley farm.  To this union have been born the following children: Mary O., born August 20, 1869, who is the wife of Oscar W._McMannis, and resides in Colerain township; Robert B., born October 8, 1871, who lives at home; Charles E., born June 12, 1872, who teaches school at Captina; William J., born January 21, 1875, who is at home; Albert G., born May 19, 1877, who died February 18, 1882; Walter L., born September 29, 1879, who died March 3, 1899; and John A., born January 2, 1882, who is at home.  Politically our subject was a Democrat for many years and is now a Prohibitionist.  He served as assessor of York township two terms.  In religious views he is liberal as to creed, his wife and Charles E. attending the Presbyterian Church and his three other sons the Methodist. Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 811
	J. A. GREEN, one of the foremost  business, one of the foremost business men of Bellaire, Belmont County, Ohio, gives the greater part of his attention to his grocery store, where he handles fresh meat, flour, etc., and a full line of both fancy and staple groceries.  The parents of our subject were Samuel and Elizabeth (Cannon) Green, and he is a grandson of “Little” Henry Green, who is well remembered as one of the earliest residents of Belmont county.      Samuel Green and his estimable wife were born and reared near Captina Creek, and died when our subject was still a small child, his birth having taken place in Monroe County in 1857.  During his boyhood he had only the common schools from which to gain his knowledge of books and what he has acquired be yond the short period of instruction there, he has gained through his own efforts and he may be called a self-made man.  He resided with friends at Lewis’ Mills, Ohio, after his parents’ death, spending three years in this manner, and in 1872 went to Bellaire, where his home has been ever since.      The first employment J. A. Green found upon locating in Bellaire was that of clerk in the grocery store of I. L. Fawcett, who is still in business in the city and is known as one of the oldest grocers in Bellaire.  Becoming familiar with the business and store while he was employed as clerk there, Mr. Green soon decided to embark in business for himself and in 1885 he opened his own place of business to the public at Nos. 2111-13 Belmont street, and has continued to prosper to the present day.  He has re modeled his store, making it double, so the dimensions are now 40 by 65 feet; it has a steel ceiling, is provided with both electric lights and fans. and under the supervision of our subject is a model of neatness everywhere, with the wares arranged most advantageously.  Four people are employed to conduct affairs quickly and smoothly and Mr. Green is active manager, spending most of his time there, although interested in many other business enterprises.      Mr. Green was united in marriage with Susan Wilson, who is a daughter of N. R. Wilson, residing near Belmont.  They have five children; namely, William H., James Earl, Bertha, Cora Nell, and Flora May, and live comfortably in their residence at No. 2105 Belmont street, which is very conveniently situated in regard to the store.  The family attended divine services at the M. E. Church. In politics      Mr. Green is a Republican, voting the straight ticket at elections.  He is a director of the Enterprise Enamel Company, director and president of the Belmont Electric Light & Power Company, and a stockholder in the new Imperial Glass Company.  By his energy, careful attention to small details and his uniform courtesy, he has placed himself upon a popular basis with the purchasing community, which has led to his success in business. (Source:  Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio and Representative Citizens. Publ. Biographical Publishing Co. - Chicago, Illinois - 1903 - Page 739

NOTES:

* The roll of members of the original society (Belmont Medical Society) has been justly called the "roll of honor."  In this list are presented some of the brightest names in the profession of Belmont County.
     On the 1st of March at the second meeting, the constitution being completed was adopted and the next step was to establish a correct roll of members.  Ephraim Gaston was the 1st on the list.

** The following was sent to me from Penny Perry:  (email that was linked to this is no longer working ~ SWick)